By Jude Opara
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has outlined his vision for Nigeria, saying his decision to seek the nation’s highest office is driven by a commitment to build a productive, prosperous and united country.
Obi made this known in a statement posted on Wednesday on his official X account, where he pledged to unveil, in the coming weeks and months, a comprehensive roadmap aimed at tackling governance challenges, improving citizens’ quality of life and promoting national unity.
According to the former Anambra State governor, the proposed roadmap will focus on curbing abuse in government, restoring public confidence in institutions and laying the foundation for sustained peace, progress and prosperity.
He said his vision is anchored on the principles of unity, inclusion, social justice, equity and the freedom of every Nigerian to pursue legitimate aspirations.
Recalling his decision to contest the presidency, Obi said he remains committed to placing Nigeria on the path of national transformation.
He explained that education and healthcare would form the cornerstone of his administration’s human capital development agenda, describing both sectors as critical to national growth and economic development.
Obi said one of his first actions in office would be the establishment of a special task force to tackle the challenge of out-of-school children across the country.
He also pledged to prioritize Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), saying the initiative would support industrialization by equipping young Nigerians with practical skills needed to drive production, agriculture and value addition.
According to him, his administration would strengthen funding for TVET institutions through partnerships involving government, the private sector and faith-based educational organizations, while expanding apprenticeship opportunities modelled after Germany’s dual vocational education system.
The NDC presidential candidate argued that Nigeria must address the paradox of high unemployment alongside shortages of skilled labour, which he said has forced many Nigerian entrepreneurs to establish businesses outside the country.
He maintained that developing a skilled workforce is essential to transforming Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy into a production-based economy capable of creating sustainable jobs and wealth.
Obi further pledged to strengthen character and civic education in schools, saying the promotion of integrity, trust, responsible leadership and shared national values would form part of his proposed governance agenda.
He added that these reforms are intended to build a more inclusive society and position Nigeria for long-term economic growth and national development.
