The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Sunday visited Kaduna State as part of his ongoing nationwide consultations, where he met with stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress and called for competence-driven politics.
Obi shared details of the visit on his verified Facebook page, stating that his engagement with political actors in the state reinforced his belief that Nigeria can be rebuilt through purposeful leadership.
According to him, the visit provided an opportunity to interact with party leaders and assess the political climate in Kaduna, which he described as strategic to national development.
“Today, as part of my nationwide consultations, I visited Kaduna State, where I met with our party stakeholders and members, including Dr. Ahmed Tijjani, a gubernatorial hopeful, and Senator Lawal Adamu, who represents Kaduna Central,” he said.
The former governor of Anambra State noted that beyond political ambitions, he observed a genuine commitment among stakeholders to serve the people and contribute to national progress.
“What I observed in them was not just political ambition but a sincere desire to serve the people and help rebuild our country,” he added.
Obi described Kaduna as a historic symbol of unity and coexistence in Nigeria, recalling its past as a major hub for industry, agriculture, and commerce. However, he lamented that the state has lost some of its former glory.
He stressed that with disciplined, competent, and people-oriented leadership, Kaduna could regain its position as a key driver of economic growth and national cohesion.
“Kaduna remains a very strategic state in Nigeria. It was once a symbol of unity and coexistence and a major hub for industry, agriculture, and commerce—and it still holds that potential,” Obi stated.
He also emphasised the need to rebuild trust and unity among citizens, warning that division remains a major barrier to development.
“A divided society cannot progress, but a united, just, and inclusive one will always find a path to peace and development,” he said.
The former presidential candidate further criticised the growing influence of money in Nigerian politics, urging leaders to prioritise competence, character, and measurable performance.
“Leaders must move away from the politics of money and embrace competence, integrity, and results-driven governance,” he said.
Obi expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, noting that his engagements across the country continue to strengthen his confidence in the nation’s potential.
“This visit has strengthened my belief that with the right leadership and collective effort, we can build a Nigeria that works—one where every citizen has a sense of belonging and opportunity,” he said.
He added that he left Kaduna feeling encouraged and hopeful that a “New Nigeria” is possible.
