I’m Not Desperate To Be President – Peter Obi

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has said his political ambition is not driven by desperation to occupy Nigeria’s highest office, but by his desire to see the country work for its citizens.

Naija News reports that Obi spoke during an interview on the Nevon HQ podcast hosted by journalist and media personality, Rufai Oseni.

The former Labour Party presidential candidate said he was more concerned about solving Nigeria’s challenges than about seeking power for personal ambition.

Obi said his focus was on building a country where citizens, especially young people, could live productive lives.

“I am not desperate to be president of Nigeria. I am desperate to see Nigeria work,” Obi said.

The former Anambra State governor lamented the hardship facing many Nigerians, saying millions of young people were struggling to find sustainable means of livelihood.

“I am desperate to see young people have a means of livelihood. I am desperate to see people stop stealing public money. I am desperate to see Nigeria work,” he stated.

Obi expressed concern over the growing number of Nigerians leaving the country in search of better opportunities abroad.

He said the trend was unfortunate, considering Nigeria’s vast human and natural resources.

“Today, all over the world, Nigerians are running to Niger, Ghana, and everywhere because there are no opportunities in this country, despite the fact that God blessed Nigeria with everything,” he said.

Outlining his vision for the country, Obi said national unity would be the starting point of any transformation agenda under his leadership.

“I will start transformation by uniting this country, bringing it together to be a country everybody will be proud of,” he said.

He added that social inclusion and poverty reduction would be among his major priorities.

“I will ensure social inclusion and reduce the level of poverty,” Obi added.

The former presidential candidate said Nigeria’s challenges were not insurmountable.

He said meaningful progress could be achieved through deliberate investment in critical sectors, especially education.

“To do this, we will invest in critical areas of development such as education. These things are not rocket science. Countries across the world have done this,” he said.

Obi maintained that with the right leadership, prudent resource management and investment in human capital development, Nigeria could unlock its potential and create opportunities for citizens.