Former presidential candidate and Labour Party figure, Peter Obi, says ending insecurity in northern Nigeria will require a strong focus on development and national unity, not reliance on political endorsements from a few influential figures.
Speaking on Arise TV on Monday, Obi said Nigeria’s insecurity is rooted in deep divisions along ethnic and religious lines, calling for leadership that prioritises national unity.
“We need leaders who will unite us as a country. Religion and tribe should not define our future,” he said.
He maintained that lasting security cannot be achieved without first creating a stable environment for growth and dialogue.
“We need a secure Nigeria where we can discuss issues that will help us build a better future,” he added.
Addressing claims that his 2027 ambition depends on support from northern political figures, Obi said while collaboration is important, no single individual determines electoral success.
“I will work with them so they can support the process, but Nigeria is bigger than individuals,” he said.
Obi argued that solving insecurity in the North requires targeted investment in key sectors, particularly agriculture, education, and healthcare, alongside efforts to reduce poverty.
“If we want to secure the North, we must invest in agriculture, reduce poverty, and improve education and healthcare,” he stated.
He also highlighted the region’s economic potential, noting that agriculture could surpass oil as a major revenue source if properly developed.
“We can make more money from agriculture than we currently make from oil, but we must start investing now,” Obi said.
Drawing on his international experience, Obi said Nigeria can adapt successful development models from other countries but stressed that security must come first.
“You cannot achieve development without first ensuring security,” he said.
His comments come amid growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, with increasing focus on strategies for securing nationwide support.
