Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 polls, Peter Obi, has intensified consultations with northern leaders.
Naijaonpoint reports that Obi recently visited Zaria in Kaduna State and Minna in Niger State as part of his engagements.
In Zaria, Obi met with a former Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Prof. Ango Abdullahi, who is also the Chairman of the Northern Elders Forum.
Confirming the visit in a post on his verified X handle, Obi said the meeting was part of his ongoing efforts to engage stakeholders and contribute to national development.
“As part of my ongoing efforts to engage with various stakeholders and contribute to the nation’s development, I embarked on a trip to Zaria yesterday,” Obi wrote.
“My mission was to meet with Professor Ango Abdullahi, a distinguished academic and respected voice in our national discourse.”
According to Obi, discussions during the meeting centred on Nigeria’s challenges, national unity and leadership responsibility.
“Our conversation focused on the pressing issues facing our country, the imperative of unity, and practical ways to rebuild Nigeria,” he said.
“During our discussion, we spoke candidly about the challenges confronting our nation and the responsibility of leadership to transcend divisions and work towards the common good of all Nigerians.”
He added that he appreciated Abdullahi’s insights and perspectives on the issues discussed.
While in Zaria, Obi also met a group of graduating pilots at the airport.
He said the pilots approached him with enthusiasm and hope for the future, noting that he encouraged them to remain focused and disciplined.
“I reminded them that Nigeria needs their skills, integrity, and professionalism to drive progress and development,” he stated.
From Zaria, Obi proceeded to Minna in Niger State, where he met with former Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida.
Obi said Babangida had earlier discussed a book titled Growing Apart, which examines the divergent paths of Indonesia and Nigeria despite similar starting points.
He explained that Babangida had asked him to obtain the book during a previous visit.
“I ensured that I got an autographed copy for him,” Obi said.
“I presented the book to him yesterday, and we discussed the country’s unity, security, and the need to improve the lives of our people.”
Obi said the engagements further strengthened his belief in the need for honest dialogue and collective responsibility.
“These engagements have reinforced my conviction that meaningful progress requires honest dialogue and collective responsibility for the future of our dear country,” he said.
“I believe that a New Nigeria is possible, and I remain committed to contributing to its realisation.”