Former presidential candidate and Labour Party leader Peter Obi has called for urgent and sustained action to combat poverty in Nigeria, warning that the country’s deepening economic crisis is a direct result of systemic governance failures.
In a statement marking the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, Obi described the occasion as a “solemn reminder” of the daily hardship endured by millions of Nigerians. Citing recent World Bank data, he noted that over 139 million citizens—more than half the population—now live in poverty, making Nigeria the country with the highest number of impoverished people globally.
“This figure reflects not only deep economic hardship but also years of failed leadership, misplaced priorities, systemic corruption, policy failures, and an absence of compassionate governance,” Obi said.
He urged leaders at all levels to place poverty eradication at the heart of national policy, emphasizing the need for strategic investment in human capital through education, healthcare, job creation, and support for small businesses.
“We must now, more than ever, restore productivity, reduce waste, and cut the cost of governance if we are truly committed to the fight against poverty,” he added.
Obi also stressed that a nation’s greatness should be measured not by the wealth of a few, but by the well-being of all its citizens. “Together, we can make poverty history and restore hope to millions who have been left in despair,” he said.
His remarks come amid growing concern over Nigeria’s economic trajectory, with inflation, unemployment, and insecurity compounding the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.
The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, observed annually on October 17, aims to raise awareness of the need to eliminate poverty in all its forms and dimensions worldwide.