Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate, has responded to criticism surrounding his recent comments on Nigeria’s economic difficulties, asserting that pointing out the country’s challenges should not be viewed as an attempt to “demarket” the nation. Obi’s remarks came after Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu accused him of portraying Nigeria negatively on the international stage.
During a memorial lecture in Abuja on May 7, 2025, Obi defended his stance, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the nation’s issues as a necessary step toward progress. He specifically mentioned the alarming poverty rate in Nigeria, comparing it to countries like China, Indonesia, and Vietnam, and highlighted the urgency of addressing the country’s economic decline. Obi attributed the nation’s struggles to the quality of its leadership, remarking, “The fate of a nation is closely tied to the quality of its leadership.”
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Governor Sanwo-Olu had previously criticized Obi’s statements, calling them “unflattering” and “disturbing,” while urging Nigerians living abroad to promote a positive image of the country. However, Obi stood firm in his response, emphasizing that confronting the truth is an act of patriotism, and ignoring the country’s issues would only hinder meaningful progress.
The exchange between Obi and Sanwo-Olu underscores a broader debate in Nigeria about how the nation’s challenges should be addressed in the public sphere. While some advocate for focusing on a more positive narrative, others, like Obi, believe that honest discussions are essential for driving the necessary changes for Nigeria’s development.
