Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has reaffirmed his commitment to a united and inclusive Nigeria after meeting with the leadership of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere.
The meeting, which took place on Monday, September 16, 2025, was held with Oba Oladipo Olaitan, the current leader of Afenifere. Oba Olaitan is also a key figure in the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum, which includes PANDEF (representing the South-South) and the Middle Belt Forum.
In a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Obi described the meeting as “useful” and said they had meaningful discussions about the challenges facing Nigeria, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, and poverty reduction.
“We had a useful meeting and discussed extensively about the current situation in our country, especially in the critical areas of education, health, and pulling people out of poverty,” Obi wrote.
He praised the Afenifere leadership for their consistent stance on justice, fairness, and national unity.
“I sincerely thank them for their courage in always standing out for fearless justice and the unity of our country, and urge them not to relent,” he said.
Obi, who came third in the 2023 presidential election, continues to play an active role in national dialogue. Since the election, he has been engaging with various political and ethnic groups across the country, promoting the idea of a “New Nigeria” based on equity, development, and good governance.
In his statement, Obi reiterated his belief in one Nigeria where no region or ethnic group is left behind.
“I remain committed to an all-inclusive, united Nigeria where no part will be left behind. A New Nigeria is POssible,” he added, ending his message with his popular campaign slogan.
The visit to Afenifere comes at a time when the country is facing multiple challenges, including worsening economic hardship, insecurity, and growing ethnic and regional tensions. Many political observers see Obi’s engagements as part of efforts to build bridges across regional lines ahead of future political developments.
Afenifere, one of Nigeria’s oldest socio-political groups, has historically played a key role in promoting Yoruba interests and national dialogue. Over the years, the group has supported restructuring, fairness in resource sharing, and protection of civil liberties.
Obi’s meeting with Afenifere is being viewed as another step in his ongoing outreach to different parts of Nigeria. He has previously met with leaders from the North, South-South, and Middle Belt, consistently emphasizing national unity and youth development.
