Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has urged Nigerian editors to lead the charge in rebuilding the country’s moral and ethical foundation, saying Nigeria needs a moral rebirth, not excuses.
Speaking at the Nigerian Guild of Editors’ Annual Conference in Abuja, themed “Reclaiming Our Nation’s Dignity,” Obi blamed Nigeria’s problems on internal decay, indifference, and failed leadership, not on foreign criticism.
“Our disgrace is not what others say about us, but what we have allowed ourselves to become,” Obi said.
Obi Calls for Honest Reflection and Accountability
Referring to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent remark that described Nigeria as a “disgraced country,” Obi said Nigerians should treat it as a wake-up call rather than react with anger.
He explained that the country stands at a critical crossroads, facing rising poverty, insecurity, and corruption. According to him, over 130 million Nigerians live in poverty, while more than 20 million children remain out of school.
Despite these harsh realities, Obi expressed hope that Nigeria can rebuild through honesty, sacrifice, and investment in human capital.
Education Is the Cornerstone of National Progress
Obi recounted his visits to schools in Anambra and Enugu, where he witnessed poor learning conditions. At the Practising School in Agulu, pupils studied under the rain after fire destroyed their classrooms.
He promised to rebuild the school by January 2026, describing education as the cornerstone of national progress.
“If I used ₦10 million to buy 200 votes and spent that same money rebuilding a burnt school, which is better?” Obi asked.
“When people sell their votes, they sell their conscience — and when conscience dies, the nation follows.”
Editors as Guardians of National Conscience
Obi urged Nigerian editors to act as the nation’s moral conscience, using their platforms to promote truth and accountability.
“You are not just recorders of history but the conscience of the nation,” he said.
“Hold leaders accountable not for promises made, but for promises kept.”
He stressed that restoring Nigeria’s dignity requires leaders to uphold integrity, strengthen education and healthcare, and end corruption and vote-buying.
A Call to Restore Nigeria’s Honour
In his closing remarks, Obi said Nigeria can regain respect among nations if citizens and leaders commit to justice, honesty, and exemplary leadership.
“Let us rebuild our moral foundation,” he declared.
“Public funds should build schools and hospitals — not buy votes. Only then will we reclaim our honour among nations.”
