The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress in the 2027 election, Peter Obi, has unveiled a policy direction focused on revamping education, expanding healthcare, driving industrialisation and investing in human capital as part of his vision for national development.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Obi said his administration would be guided by principles of inclusive governance, national unity and social justice, which he believes are essential for restoring economic growth and improving the lives of Nigerians.
Reflecting on his presidential ambition, the former Anambra State governor said his desire to lead the country stems from a commitment to rebuilding Nigeria and creating opportunities for citizens.
“Now, as the Nigeria Democratic Congress candidate, I will, in the coming weeks and months, provide insights into the roadmap that I am confident will help curb abuse in government, halt the decline in the quality of life of Nigerians at all levels, and usher in an era of unity, peace, sustained progress, and prosperity,” Obi said.
He explained that the plan would be built on “unity, inclusion, social justice, equity, and the freedom of every citizen to pursue lawful dreams.”
Obi identified education and healthcare as key sectors that would receive significant attention, describing a well-developed population as the country’s greatest asset for achieving sustainable growth.
“Robust human capital is indispensable infrastructure for national progress. It serves as the fundamental capital upon which daily life, economic expansion, and the delivery of essential public services depend,” he stated.
To address the education crisis, Obi said his government would immediately launch a task force to reduce the number of children who are out of school.
He added that Technical and Vocational Education and Training would be strengthened to produce skilled workers capable of supporting industrial growth, agricultural value addition and job creation.
“From the outset of my presidency, we will establish a task force dedicated to drastically reducing the menace of out-of-school children.
“We will place greater emphasis on Technical and Vocational Education and Training to support our drive for massive industrialisation, anchored on our agricultural endowments and value addition across value chains organised around industrial parks to be located in development zones across the geopolitical regions of the country.
“Funding and improving the equipment of TVET institutions, through partnerships among government, the private sector, and social entrepreneurs such as faith-based educators, will facilitate apprenticeship opportunities in the private sector, similar to the German dual education system.
“The situation in which unemployment remains high while Nigerian entrepreneurs establish businesses elsewhere because skilled labour is scarce must be confronted decisively,” he said.
Obi also said character and civic education would form part of his reform agenda to encourage patriotism, integrity and responsible leadership among Nigerians.
He concluded the statement with his campaign slogan, saying, “A New Nigeria is Possible.”