Peter Gregory Obi, the former governor of Anambra State and the 2023 presidential candidate, has been officially endorsed as the presidential nominee of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general election.
In a press statement signed by Ibrahim Umar, spokesman for the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR), the endorsement came at a special convention held in Abuja on Saturday, following a motion tabled by Senator Victor Umeh and seconded by former Deputy Senate President Omo Agege.
Shortly after his endorsement, Mr Obi nominated Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the former governor of Kano State, as his running mate.
He described Mr Kwankwaso as a “genuine partner” rather than a mere backup, in contrast to the approach of the current administration.
In his acceptance speech, Mr Obi said: “I humbly accept this responsibility as the presidential candidate for our party. I extend my heartfelt thanks to our party leaders, including His Excellency Seriake Dickson, the national chairman, the national secretary, and the members of the national working committee, as well as our dedicated supporters and the Nigerian people who continue to hold on to hope.”
He added: “A new Nigeria is achievable. This belief unites us and should guide us as we navigate the challenging path ahead. This moment is larger than my personal aspirations; it concerns the core of our nation and the future of our children.”
Mr Obi outlined several priority areas his administration would tackle, including insecurity, national unity, the power sector, healthcare, education, and unemployment.
He highlighted the plight of young Nigerians, noting that official unemployment figures of 4 per cent mask a far graver reality.
“The true rates of underemployment and unemployment in Nigeria exceed 30 per cent, with youth unemployment surpassing 40 per cent – among the highest globally. This situation demands urgent action,” he said.
On corruption and governance costs, he promised: “Nigerians will see a clear and verifiable decrease in corruption and in the fundamental expenses associated with governance. Public resources will be managed with full transparency, prudence, and accountability.”
He vowed that under his leadership, “democracy will reflect true governance by the people, for the people, and of the people, entirely free from interference by the ruling party. Instead, we will institute a culture of deep respect for opposition parties and encourage constructive cooperation in governance.”
