Peter Obi highlights a growing poverty problem in Nigeria. He points out that politicians focus on power struggles while millions suffer.
Shocking Poverty Numbers
Peter Obi states that 62 percent of Nigerians live in poverty. This equals about 141 million people. The World Bank reports this figure will hit 141 million by 2026.
In addition, poverty rose from 81 million in 2019 to 139 million in 2025. From 2023 to 2024 alone, 14 million more Nigerians fell into poverty. Projections show another 26 million will join them by 2026.
Politicians Ignore the Crisis
Politicians scramble for positions and party control. They share posts before elections end. Meanwhile Obi notes, the nation faces a harsh truth.
However other countries lift people out of hardship. India reduced extreme poverty from 35-40 percent in 2000 to 5.3 percent today. Indonesia cut it from 30 percent to 8 percent.
In addition, Nigeria’s poverty climbed from 40 percent in 2000 to 62 percent now. Obi calls this a regression.
Economic Factors Fuel Poverty
Weak income growth and high living costs drive this crisis. Inflation eases, but prices stay high due to energy and exchange rate issues. Low-income families spend 70 percent on food, making them vulnerable.
Moreover this poverty limits the purchasing power as well. This has been particularly damaging to small businesses that flourish as a result of local demand. With respect to employment and social services, without these, there is little opportunity.
Human Development
Remains DefectiveIn the year 2000, the Human Development Index in Nigeria was equal to that of India and Bangladesh. In 2025, the other two improved in the index, while Nigeria remained low with an index of 0.53. Hence, Obi asserts that the chance of a child living in poverty is high, and this will threaten the future of the country.
Obi Calls for Change
A new Nigeria, says Obi, is also possible. Obi calls for immediate structural reforms. Those in power must prioritize “stability, agriculture, education, health, and employment.” Such measures, he says, are imperative. Additionally a new and better Nigeria, according to Obi, is feasible.
In conclusion, Obi calls upon all politicians to move away from power politics to poverty solutions. Nigeria must act fast to turn this trend around and create a better future for its people.
