NDC Presidential candidate, Peter Obi and his vice, Rabiu Kwankwaso
Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi has formally accepted his nomination for the 2027 presidential election, using the occasion to present a sweeping blueprint for national renewal and announce as his running mate.
Addressing party leaders, supporters and delegates in Abuja, Obi described Nigeria as a nation at a crossroads but insisted that the country’s challenges could be overcome through unity, accountable governance and strategic investments in key sectors.
“It is with deep humility that I accept the role of presidential candidate for our party,” Obi declared, thanking party leaders, supporters and Nigerians who, according to him, have continued to sustain hope despite prevailing difficulties.
The former Anambra State governor reaffirmed his signature political message, telling the gathering: “I wish to assert unequivocally: a New Nigeria is Possible.”
According to Obi, the campaign ahead is larger than any individual ambition.
“This pivotal moment transcends the individual ambitions of Peter Obi; it concerns the essence of our nation and the future of our children. It is about rekindling hope for millions who have faced adversity yet remain committed to Nigeria,” he said.
Calls for National Unity
A significant portion of Obi’s address focused on national cohesion, as he argued that Nigeria’s progress depends on overcoming ethnic, religious and regional divisions.
“Nigeria cannot advance while fragmented by ethnic, religious, regional, or narrow political divides,” he said.
Obi urged Nigerians to embrace unity and shared purpose, adding that diversity should be viewed as a strength rather than a source of conflict.
“We should build bridges where others erect barriers, replace mistrust with confidence, division with understanding, and resentment with a collective purpose.”
Quoting historian Will Durant, he warned: “A great civilisation is not conquered from without until it has destroyed itself from within.”
Security Tops Priority List
Obi painted a grim picture of the country’s security situation, noting Nigeria’s worsening position in global terrorism impact rankings.
He pledged to pursue what he described as an intelligence-driven, technology-enhanced and community-focused security strategy.
“We must address insecurity with resolve and urgency, for no nation can thrive while its citizens live in trepidation,” he said.
The NDC candidate promised stronger coordination among security agencies, enhanced support for security personnel and efforts to tackle poverty, unemployment and marginalisation, which he identified as key drivers of insecurity.
Healthcare Reform and Insurance Expansion
On healthcare, Obi promised a major expansion of health insurance coverage and increased government investment in the sector.
He lamented the poor state of primary healthcare facilities across the country and pledged that health insurance coverage would more than double during his first term.
“I pledge that within four years, our health insurance coverage will more than double to over 20%.”
He also promised to raise healthcare spending to at least 10 per cent of Gross Domestic Product and ensure functional primary healthcare centres across all 8,809 wards nationwide.
Education as Foundation for Growth
Obi described education as the cornerstone of national development, promising substantial investments in schools, teachers, technology and vocational training.
“Education will remain at the forefront of our national revival, as no country can grow beyond its educational system,” he stated.
According to him, education must be repositioned to equip young Nigerians not only for employment but also for entrepreneurship and innovation.
Agriculture and Hunger Crisis
The ADC flag bearer expressed concern over rising food insecurity and Nigeria’s poor ranking on global hunger indices despite its vast agricultural potential.
Drawing comparisons with major rice-producing nations such as India, Bangladesh and Vietnam, Obi argued that Nigeria has no excuse for remaining among the world’s most food-insecure countries.
“The foregoing clearly illustrates that we have absolutely no justification for being among the world’s hungriest nations,” he said.
He reiterated his belief that large-scale agricultural development remains Nigeria’s most realistic path to reducing poverty and achieving economic prosperity.
Promise to Boost Power Supply
Obi also outlined ambitious plans for the energy sector, describing inadequate electricity supply as a major obstacle to economic growth.
“Nigeria today is the nation with the highest number of citizens lacking access to electricity globally,” he said.
To address the challenge, he pledged that his administration would deliver a minimum increase of 10,000 megawatts in electricity generation and distribution within four years.
Jobs, Governance and Rule of Law
On unemployment, Obi argued that official figures do not accurately reflect the realities facing young Nigerians. He promised targeted support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises through tax incentives, favourable lending rates and improved access to funding.
He further pledged to reduce corruption and cut the cost of governance through transparency and accountability.
“Nigerians will witness a tangible and verifiable reduction in corruption and the baseline costs associated with governance,” he said.
Obi also vowed to uphold the rule of law and strengthen democratic institutions.
“The rule of law will be fiercely upheld, and adherence to it will be sacrosanct for both government officials and citizens alike.”
Kwankwaso Named Running Mate
In one of the most significant moments of the event, Obi announced former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, as his vice-presidential candidate.
“Following this i will make democracy work and the Vice president will be partner not a spare tyres. I hereby accept my affirmation and nominate Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso as my Vice President.”
He concluded by seeking divine blessings for the nation and expressing confidence that Nigeria can chart a new course under visionary leadership.
“May God bless you all, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
