Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has promised measurable and accountable governance. Also stating that Nigerians would begin to see tangible results within his first year in office if he is elected.
Obi made the pledge in his Independence Day address on Thursday, as Nigeria marked its 66th anniversary. He said his proposed administration would focus on insecurity, education, healthcare and productive enterprise.
“My message today is not one of despair. It is a message of hope, determination and responsibility. I dare to proclaim with full assurance that a new Nigeria is possible,” Obi said.
He added that his administration would make governance measurable and accountable, with the welfare and productivity of citizens at the centre of government policy.
“Within the first year, Nigerians will begin to see the tangible impact of purposeful and effective leadership,” he said.
Obi Promises Action on Insecurity
Obi said insecurity would be one of the priorities of his administration if elected. He promised to confront insecurity so that farmers could return to their farms, children could attend school safely, businesses could operate freely and families could live without fear. He also said his government would focus on moving Nigeria towards greater production. With agriculture, manufacturing, jobs and human-capital development forming part of his broader economic agenda.
The former Anambra State governor also pledged to lead by example by spending his presidential holidays within Nigeria. He said he would visit states including Zamfara, Borno, Kwara, Ebonyi, Edo and Ekiti to interact with residents, understand their challenges and observe conditions across the country.
“As I have always done, I will lead by example. In four years as President of this great nation, I will not spend my holidays outside Nigeria,” Obi said.
Obi Calls for Citizen Accountability
Obi said the Nigeria citizens want would not be achieved through prayers or political promises alone. He argued that public office should be treated as a responsibility to citizens and called on Nigerians to demand accountability from those entrusted with political power.
“The Nigeria we desire will not be built by prayers alone, nor by promises alone,” he said. Also adding that it would require leadership that treats public office as a “sacred trust” and citizens who demand accountability.
Obi joined the NDC in May 2026 and was subsequently selected as the party’s presidential candidate for the 2027 election. The party later submitted his nomination particulars to the Independent National Electoral Commission.
