Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has urged young Nigerians to embrace integrity, competence, discipline, and hard work as the foundation for lasting success and national development.
Obi spoke on Saturday at the This Generation Conference hosted by Summit Bible Church in Abuja, where he interacted with young entrepreneurs, professionals, business leaders, and members of the emerging generation.
Speaking on the challenges facing the country, Obi stressed the importance of productivity and innovation in driving economic growth.
“Sustainable success is built on integrity, competence, discipline, and a commitment to creating value for society,” he said.
He noted that national development depends on the ability of citizens to contribute meaningfully to economic growth.
“No nation develops by consumption alone. Nations progress when their citizens are productive, innovative, and committed to excellence,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor encouraged young people to reject shortcuts and focus instead on education, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and ethical leadership.
“Our young people must resist the temptation of shortcuts and instead embrace education, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and ethical leadership,” he said.
Obi also emphasized the critical role of the younger generation in shaping Nigeria’s future.
“The future of Nigeria depends largely on the quality of leadership and enterprise this generation is willing to build,” he added.
Calling for a shift in national priorities, Obi said Nigeria must move beyond dependence and embrace wealth creation through productive activities.
“We must move from a culture of sharing poverty to one of creating prosperity through production, innovation, and responsible governance.”
He expressed optimism about the country’s future, saying the enthusiasm and determination of the young people he met strengthened his confidence in Nigeria’s potential.
“Their questions, ideas, and aspirations reaffirmed my belief that Nigeria’s greatest resource remains her people.”
Obi concluded by urging Nigerians to work together to build a better nation.
“Together, through hard work, integrity, and purposeful leadership, we can build the New Nigeria that is possible.”