In his Nigeria@64 message, Peter Obi calls for urgent efforts to prevent further decline in the country’s state, stressing the need for reform and national revival. Read his full statement.

As Nigeria marks its 64th anniversary as a nation, Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate for the 2023 general election, emphasizes that Africa’s most populous country urgently requires rescue from “further decay.”

Obi made this announcement on Tuesday via his statement on X, where he underscored the nation’s challenges in economic, social, and security sectors.

“Nigeria stands out as a nation in decline, urgently needing rescue from further decay when we compare ourselves to countries that gained independence around the same time—before or after us,” he said.

“Today, we must solemnly commit to building a nation that is genuinely free from the state capture which has led it to failure and prolonged its people’s suffering.”

READ ALSO: Tinubu Leads Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day Festivities at Aso Villa

The former governor of Anambra expressed concern about Nigeria’s underperformance in key development areas, questioning whether the nation has genuinely improved its citizens’ lives.

He also highlighted critical issues afflicting the nation, such as rampant poverty, a failing education system, and an immense debt burden.

The former presidential candidate called on all Nigerians to renew their dedication to creating a nation devoid of tribal divisions, religious discord, and corruption.

Obi remarked, “Our nation persistently teeters on the brink of disaster. We must build a society devoid of tribal division and religious discord.”

“We must build a new and productive Nigeria that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens. This is the kind of independence we should celebrate as a nation, where greatness remains possible.”