THIS DAWN — The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, has called on the European Union (EU) to strengthen its engagement with Africa—particularly Nigeria—by supporting good governance, economic development, and democratic consolidation across the continent.
Obi made the appeal during a series of high-level meetings at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France, on November 25, 2025.
Obi revealed that he spent the day meeting with several parliamentary committees.
including the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, the Africa–EU Delegation Committee, and the Committees on Transport, Tourism, and Development.
He described the engagements as constructive and future-focused, centred on redefining Europe’s strategic relationship with Africa.
“Support Africa”
According to the former Anambra State governor, Africa holds immense potential as the world’s second-largest continent in both landmass and population.
He also noted that Africa is endowed with abundant natural resources and an energetic youth population.
Yet, he said, it remains the global symbol of poverty—an outcome he attributed to persistent bad leadership and systemic corruption.
“This reality is clearly reflected in Nigeria,” he said.
Obi urged the EU to support Africa in a manner that promotes the emergence of competent, visionary, and accountable leaders capable of driving sustainable development.
Strengthening democratic processes, he argued, would help ensure credible leadership and restore public trust in governance.
He also outlined specific areas where stronger EU partnership could accelerate Nigeria’s development.
These include addressing rising insecurity, boosting power generation and distribution, improving access to quality education and healthcare, and expanding economic opportunities to lift millions out of poverty.
Europe, he stressed, ultimately benefits when African nations achieve stability and prosperity.
Youth empowerment
A significant portion of his engagements focused on youth empowerment, especially in Nigeria.
He said millions of talented young people in Nigeria possess enormous entrepreneurial drive but are hindered by limited opportunities.
Obi noted that meaningful investment in youth development would not only transform local economies but also strengthen global productivity.
Affirming the continent’s future potential, Obi said Africa—and Nigeria in particular—“can and must work for all and contribute meaningfully to global development.” He concluded with his familiar optimism: “A New Nigeria is possible.”
