At a recent National Political Consultative Group (North) meeting attended by notable figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, PDP BOT Chairman Wabara, and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, Peter Obi delivered a compelling address on Nigeria’s economic challenges and the pivotal role of the North in the country’s future.
Obi highlighted the stark economic decline in key northern cities, noting, “Go to Kaduna, there is no industry. We used to do the Kaduna Trade Fair, but today nobody goes there. We used to go to Maiduguri for cash, today nobody goes there. That is poverty.”
He emphasised the link between poverty and social instability, stating that when people are uncertain about their next meal, controlling societal issues becomes impossible. According to him, governance holds the key to resolving these challenges.
He boldly declared, “I have always said the North can change Nigeria. The greatest asset of this country is in the North.”
Obi pointed out the vast untapped agricultural potential in the region, comparing Nigeria’s rice production unfavourably with Bangladesh, a country smaller than two northern states but producing significantly more.
He also cited the Netherlands agricultural exports, which surpass the value of Nigeria’s oil exports, underscoring the economic opportunity lying in northern farmlands.
Obi called for urgent investment in agriculture and industrialisation in the North to harness these resources, and reduce poverty, and consequently, insecurity.
He argued that Nigeria’s future prosperity depends on unlocking the North’s potential, which could provide food security, and raw materials for industries, and boost exports.
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