Peter Obi, Makinde Hold Closed-Door Talks In Ibadan, Emphasise United, Productive Nigeria
•By OYENIYI AWOJOODU
IBADAN —- FORMER Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has reiterated his vision of a united, secure and productive Nigeria following a closed-door meeting with Seyi Makinde in Ibadan.
The meeting, which lasted nearly two hours, was held at the Oyo State Secretariat on Tuesday as part of ongoing consultations among opposition figures ahead of future political alignments.
Speaking with Government House correspondents after the meeting, Obi described the visit as part of broader engagements with key stakeholders on national issues.
“We have come to consult and continue discussions with His Excellency, the Governor, on issues concerning the future of our country,” Obi said. “My dear brother, the Governor, and I share a common belief that Nigeria must work for everyone, and that is the focus of our engagement.”
He stressed that the discussions go beyond politics, focusing instead on nation-building and collaboration across political divides.
“What we are doing is not about politics for its own sake; it is about Nigeria and how we can build a better nation for all our people,” he added.
Obi outlined his vision of a country that is united, secure and progressive, where citizens have equal opportunities to succeed based on merit rather than personal connections.
“We are looking at a Nigeria where every citizen has a fair chance to succeed through hard work, not connections,” he said.
Highlighting the need for inclusivity, Obi emphasised the importance of creating a system that allows individuals to rise based on merit.
“We want a Nigeria where someone from humble beginnings can succeed without knowing anyone in positions of influence,” he noted.
On economic reforms, Obi called for a shift from a consumption-driven economy to one anchored on production and job creation.
“We must move Nigeria from consumption to production and ensure that our people are gainfully employed,” he said.
The meeting comes less than 72 hours after a high-level opposition summit held in Ibadan, which brought together prominent political stakeholders from across the country.
Obi’s visit also follows his recent engagement with former President, Goodluck Jonathan, signalling ongoing consultations linked to broader political realignments ahead of future elections.