Peter Obi has announced his intention to run for president in the 2027 election under the banner of the Labour Party.
Obi made the declaration during a meeting with Labour Party executives in Abuja on Monday.
The former governor of Anambra State said he chose the Labour Party because it aligns with his vision for inclusive governance.
He emphasised that the party’s grassroots structures and youth membership make it the right vehicle for his campaign.
Obi noted that the Labour Party has grown significantly since his 2023 presidential bid.
He praised the party for giving a voice to young Nigerians and marginalised communities.
The 2027 election will mark Obi’s second attempt at winning the presidency.
In 2019, he contested under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) but did not secure the nomination.
In 2023, he ran on the Labour Party ticket and finished third behind the two major parties.
Obi secured over 6 million votes in that election, reflecting strong support in urban and southern regions.
He told party members that the lessons from the 2023 campaign will guide the 2027 strategy.
Obi stressed the need for unity within the party to build a broad coalition.
He urged delegates to reconcile differences and work as a team.
Obi emphasised that internal cohesion is critical to challenge the ruling party.
He assured members that his leadership style values consultation and transparency.
Obi also outlined key policy areas for his proposed administration.
He said he will prioritise economic renewal through small business support and job creation.
Obi pledged to reform the education sector to improve quality and access.
He promised to strengthen healthcare systems and expand rural clinics.
Obi highlighted the importance of good roads and reliable power supply for economic growth.
He committed to fighting corruption at all levels of government.
Obi said he will establish stronger social safety nets to protect vulnerable Nigerians.
He announced plans to engage with civil society groups throughout the campaign.
Obi appealed for national unity beyond ethnic and religious divides.
He said that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity and shared destiny.
Obi asked party members to mobilise young voters through town hall meetings and digital outreach.
He encouraged the use of social media to spread the party’s message.
Obi noted that modern campaigns must harness technology effectively.
He called on the party’s youth wing to spearhead voter registration drives.
Obi urged women’s groups within the party to play leadership roles.
He promised to champion gender equality in his administration.
Obi said he will mentor emerging leaders and build a pipeline of qualified candidates.
He thanked Labour Party supporters for their loyalty and hard work since 2022.
Obi acknowledged the sacrifices made by volunteers during the last election cycle.
He said those efforts laid the foundation for the party’s growth.
Obi reiterated his commitment to internal democracy within the Labour Party.
He invited party elders to guide policy development and campaign planning.
Obi said decisions will be made at both national and state levels to reflect local needs.
He promised to hold regular consultations with state chapters.
Obi also expressed gratitude to civil servants and public officers who supported the transition in Anambra State.
He shared his pride in the state’s achievements in education and healthcare.
Obi cited Anambra’s model as a blueprint for national development.
He said the state’s reforms demonstrated the impact of accountable leadership.
Obi argued that similar reforms can rebuild trust in federal institutions.
He urged Nigerians to believe in their collective ability to change the country.
Obi appealed for calm and peaceful conduct throughout the campaign period.
He condemned political violence and hate speech.
Obi called for adherence to electoral laws and respect for the rule of law.
He invited security agencies to ensure a level playing field for all parties.
Obi said free and fair elections are vital for democracy.
He reassured investors that his administration will maintain policy continuity.
Obi promised to create a business-friendly environment to attract foreign direct investment.
He talked about partnerships with neighbouring countries to boost regional trade.
Obi highlighted the importance of leveraging Nigeria’s agricultural potential.
He proposed a national programme to modernise farming and increase food security.
Obi said the country must invest in value chain development for crops and livestock.
He pledged support for smallholder farmers through access to credit and markets.
Obi also outlined plans for digital transformation of government services.
He promised to streamline procedures and reduce bureaucratic red tape.
Obi cited examples of e-governance innovations from other countries.
He encouraged Nigerian tech entrepreneurs to collaborate with government agencies.
Obi said such partnerships can drive efficiency and transparency.
He assured citizens that his administration will uphold human rights and press freedom.
Obi stressed that a free press is essential to hold leaders accountable.
He vowed to strengthen the independence of anti-corruption agencies.
Obi concluded his remarks by asking for prayers and continued support.
He said the road ahead will be challenging but achievable with collective effort.
Obi asked party members to start planning for primaries and campaign logistics.
He said clear timetables and task forces will be set up within weeks.
Obi invited Nigerians across the country to join the Labour Party.
He said the party’s doors are open to all who share its values.
Obi’s announcement drew applause and chants of “Obi-Datti” from supporters.
