Peter Obi: Nigeria’s Future Depends on Raising Responsible, Visionary Leaders

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) Peter Obi, has said Nigeria can only build the nation its citizens desire by raising a new generation of responsible, visionary leaders committed to selfless service, good governance and national development.

Obi made the remarks after engaging students of Madonna University, Okija Campus, during the NextGen Mentorship and Leadership Initiative, themed "Beyond Now: Raising the Next Generation of Leaders."

In a post shared on his Facebook page on Sunday, the former Anambra State governor said the interactive session offered him an opportunity to hear directly from students whose questions reflected the frustrations many young Nigerians face due to poor governance and corruption.

According to him, years of weak leadership have denied many young people opportunities to realise their full potential.

Despite the prevailing challenges, Obi said he was encouraged by the optimism, resilience and determination demonstrated by the students, expressing confidence that Nigeria's future could still be transformed through purposeful leadership.

He stressed that leadership remains the single most important factor in determining the progress of any nation, adding that those entrusted with public office must possess character, competence, capacity and compassion, alongside a willingness to make sacrifices for the collective good.

Obi said Nigeria's future depends on leaders who prioritise the protection of lives and property, invest in education, create economic opportunities and build strong, accountable institutions capable of driving sustainable development.

He encouraged the students to take their education seriously and prepare themselves for leadership responsibilities, urging them to see themselves not merely as spectators but as active participants in shaping the country's future.

The former presidential candidate also called on young Nigerians to actively participate in the democratic process by supporting leaders with integrity and the capacity to deliver good governance.

As part of his support for education, Obi presented a ₦15 million cheque to Madonna University to support the institution's educational programmes.

He described investment in education as one of the most effective ways of developing the human capital needed for national growth and long-term prosperity.

According to him, empowering young people through quality education and responsible leadership remains critical to building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.

"Together, by raising a new generation of responsible and visionary leaders, we can build the Nigeria of our dreams that is possible," Obi said.