Former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, has formally accepted his nomination as the presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), pledging to unite the country, tackle insecurity, and restore hope to millions of Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at the party’s national convention in Abuja on Saturday, Obi described his emergence as a responsibility that goes beyond personal ambition and is focused on rebuilding the nation.
“It is with deep humility that I accept the role of presidential candidate for our party. This pivotal moment transcends the individual ambitions of Peter Obi; it concerns the essence of our nation and the future of our children,” Obi said.
The former governor expressed gratitude to the leadership of the NDC, including former Bayelsa State Governor Senator Seriake Dickson, members of the National Working Committee, party supporters, and Nigerians who have continued to believe in the vision of a better nation.
Reaffirming his campaign message, Obi declared that “a New Nigeria is Possible,” describing it as a vision capable of transforming the country and restoring confidence in governance.
“This conviction has united us; it must serve as our compass on the challenging road ahead and sustain us through all trials we may face,” he said.
According to him, Nigeria is currently facing a period of uncertainty marked by insecurity, economic hardship, declining business confidence, and growing frustration among citizens.
“Families are anxious about their safety; parents are concerned for their children’s future; and talented youth increasingly question their prospects in their homeland. Businesses are struggling, communities are suffering, and an alarming number of citizens have lost faith in the very concept of governance.”
Obi stressed that national unity would be central to his vision for rebuilding the country, warning against divisions based on ethnicity, religion, region, and partisan interests.
“Nigeria cannot advance while fragmented by ethnic, religious, regional, or narrow political divides. We may communicate in different languages and practise diverse faiths, but we share a singular destiny under one flag,” he said.
He added that Nigeria’s diversity should be embraced 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. A united Nigeria is indispensable,” Obi said.
Quoting renowned historian Will Durant, the NDC presidential candidate urged Nigerians to embrace reconciliation and national cohesion.
“A great civilisation is not conquered from without until it has destroyed itself from within. We must never self-destruct. We must heal, unify, and progress together,” he said.
On security, Obi described the worsening situation across the country as unacceptable and called for urgent action to protect citizens and communities.
“The situation in Nigeria has considerably worsened,” Obi stated , noting the country’s declining ranking in global terrorism impact assessments.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s achievements in international peacekeeping operations, he praised the nation’s military personnel for their professionalism and sacrifices across Africa and beyond.
“Our troops have not only displayed bravery but have also shown professionalism, discipline, resilience, and empathy in the most challenging operational contexts,” he said.
Obi argued that the same commitment and effectiveness should be applied to addressing domestic security threats.
“We must address insecurity with resolve and urgency, for no nation can thrive while its citizens live in trepidation. The primary responsibility of government is to ensure the safeguarding of lives and property,” Obi said.
Despite the challenges confronting the nation, he expressed confidence that Nigeria could overcome its difficulties through purposeful leadership and collective action.
“I stand before you filled with optimism and strong faith in the resilience of our people. For I firmly believe that a New Nigeria is possible,” he said.
The acceptance speech sets the tone for what is expected to be a campaign focused on national unity, security, economic recovery, and restoring public trust in governance as preparations for the 2027 presidential election gather momentum.