Former Nigerian presidential candidate Peter Obi has called for urgent reforms in leadership and governance to restore human dignity and national progress in Nigeria. Speaking at the 8th Annual Conference of the University of Nigeria Alumni Association, UK, Obi delivered a keynote address centered on the theme: “Restoring the Dignity of Man through Building an Equitable, Inclusive, and Compassionate Society.”
The event, held in Birmingham, brought together alumni and stakeholders committed to advancing the values of inclusive excellence and social equity. Obi, who had earlier toured local universities to gain insights into institutional models of inclusive education, used the platform to highlight Nigeria’s declining Human Development Index and the systemic challenges undermining national growth.
“Nigeria ranks very low in key indicators of human development—security, rule of law, and education,” Obi said. “With over 20 million out-of-school children and 139 million people living in poverty, we are witnessing the consequences of failed leadership and misplaced priorities.”
He also drew attention to the country’s deteriorating healthcare system, citing a depleted workforce, under-equipped hospitals, and limited access to basic medical services for the poor. “Nigeria is now counted among the hungriest nations, with millions unsure of where their next meal will come from,” he added.
Obi urged Nigerian leaders to embrace integrity, transparency, and empathy in governance, and to invest deliberately in education, healthcare, job creation, and poverty alleviation. He also called on citizens to critically evaluate the leadership selection process to ensure that only individuals with character, competence, and compassion are entrusted with public office.
“To restore dignity, we must build a nation where opportunities match skills, where life and property are secure, and where every citizen can live with pride and purpose,” Obi concluded. “This is the Nigeria we deserve — and it is POssible.”
The conference underscored the role of diaspora communities in shaping national discourse and advancing development goals, with participants reaffirming their commitment to building a more equitable and inclusive Nigeria.
