Nigerians Poor Due to Bad Leadership, Celebration of Corrupt Officials — Peter Obi

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has blamed Nigeria’s widespread poverty on poor leadership and the continued celebration of corrupt public officials.

Obi made the remark on Thursday in Abuja while receiving members of the Association of Skilled and Vocational Artisans of Nigeria (ASVAN), led by its national president, Obijuru Everest.

The former governor of Anambra State said the country possesses enormous natural and human resources that should ordinarily position it among the strongest economies in the world.

However, he argued that poor leadership and misplaced priorities have continued to keep millions of citizens in hardship.

Obi noted that the situation has been worsened by a culture in which political figures accused of looting public funds are still celebrated and honoured in society. According to him, such actions weaken accountability and discourage the kind of leadership needed to drive development.

“We are poor because we have chosen to be poor. We give titles and front-row seats of honour to those who steal public funds, and yet we expect to grow,” Obi said.

The 2023 presidential contender stressed that corruption remains one of the biggest obstacles to economic progress in Nigeria, noting that resources meant for public services are often diverted, leaving critical sectors underfunded.

Obi said education and healthcare require urgent attention if the country hopes to lift millions of people out of poverty, explaining that nations that prioritise these sectors tend to achieve faster economic growth and improved living standards.

He recalled a discussion he once had with political leaders in Indonesia, where he observed that the country had made significant progress through improved governance and deliberate investments in human capital. According to him, the advice he received during the exchange was clear: tackle corruption and strengthen key social sectors.

Obi also highlighted the importance of small and medium-scale enterprises, describing them as the backbone of every thriving economy. He said governments must create an enabling environment for businesses through improved infrastructure, fair policies and access to funding.

“Join the fight for a great Nigeria. Stop worshipping those who steal your money, stop giving them titles, and stand up for what is right,” he said.

“Vote, defend your votes, and help produce good leaders at all levels, from councillor to president, and you will see the country change.”

The former governor further urged artisans and skilled workers to remain active participants in the democratic process, noting that citizens must hold leaders accountable if the country is to move forward.