Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has challenged young Nigerians to become drivers of innovation, enterprise and ethical leadership, insisting that the country’s future rests on a generation committed to productivity and value creation.
Speaking at the This Generation Conference organised by Summit Bible Church in Abuja, Obi said sustainable success is rooted in competence, integrity, discipline and hard work rather than the pursuit of quick gains.
Addressing an audience of young entrepreneurs, professionals and business leaders, he shared lessons from his years in business and public service, stressing that meaningful progress is achieved through consistent effort and a commitment to excellence.
The former Anambra State governor noted that no nation can attain lasting development through consumption alone, arguing that economic growth is driven by productive citizens who invest in innovation, entrepreneurship and skills development.
He urged young people to resist the lure of shortcuts and instead focus on education, capacity building and responsible leadership capable of transforming communities and strengthening national institutions.
According to Obi, Nigeria must transition from a culture of dependence and wealth distribution to one anchored on production, creativity and sustainable economic growth.
He expressed confidence in the country’s prospects, citing the enthusiasm, intelligence and ambition displayed by participants at the conference as evidence that a new generation of leaders is emerging.
Obi said the interactions reinforced his conviction that Nigeria’s greatest asset is its people, particularly its youths, whose ideas and determination can help unlock the nation’s vast potential.
He added that with integrity, hard work and purposeful leadership, the vision of a more prosperous and inclusive Nigeria remains achievable.