Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has warned that Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary offers little to celebrate, blaming decades of poor leadership and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for deepening poverty and weakening the nation’s global standing.
In his Independence Day address on Tuesday, Obi said October 1 should be a day of pride and gratitude for the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers, who envisioned a prosperous nation destined to lead Africa. Instead, he lamented, the promise of independence has been squandered.
“On October 1, 1960, Nigeria gained independence to global acclaim. Such was our potential that Time Magazine predicted the rise of a true African superpower. Sadly, tragic failures of leadership derailed this dream,” he said.
Obi recalled Nigeria’s progress in restoring democracy in 1999 and rising to become Africa’s largest economy by 2014, only to witness a decade of decline under the current administration.
He noted that Nigeria’s debt has ballooned from about ₦2.5 trillion in 2007 to nearly ₦175 trillion today, without significant improvements in productive sectors. Once Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria now trails behind South Africa, Egypt, and Algeria.
“In just one year, this administration pushed over 15 million Nigerians into acute poverty,” Obi stated. “More than 150 million Nigerians lack access to basic healthcare, education, clean water, and sanitation. This government taxes struggling citizens heavily while indulging in reckless luxury spending.”
He condemned billions allocated for new jets, yachts, and luxury cars while federal hospitals and universities remain underfunded.
On insecurity, Obi said Nigerians now live in fear as terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping flourish, forcing billions into ransom payments and driving away investors.
“Incompetence in security management has turned our country into one of the most terrorised nations in the world. Cronyism, corruption, and disregard for the rule of law have crippled our economy,” he warned.
Calling for urgent reforms, Obi urged Nigerians to embrace accountability, discipline, and competent leadership to reverse the country’s decline.
“At 65, we don’t need fanfare but sober reflection and bold action. The dream of our founding fathers is still possible — but only if we choose justice, equity, and leadership that puts Nigeria first,” he concluded.
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