Education Is Nigeria’s Most Vital Investment — Peter Obi Tells Nigerians in Washington DC

The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has reiterated that education remains the most vital investment for Nigeria’s development, warning that the country faces a bleak future if it fails to address its growing number of out-of-school children.

Speaking on Friday evening, October 4, in Washington DC, Obi addressed members of the Nigeria Friendship Association (NFA) a network of Nigerian professionals in the United States where he commended their long-standing commitment to education and community development.

Obi noted that the group, formed nearly three decades ago when many of its members were students in the U.S., has since evolved into a strong community of accomplished professionals residing in the Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area and beyond.

“What struck me most about them is their unwavering commitment to education, which they have supported consistently over the years, both in the U.S. and back home in Nigeria,” Obi stated.

The former Anambra State governor expressed concern that Nigeria now has over 24 million out-of-school children, the highest number globally, describing the situation as an urgent national crisis.

“With over 24 million out-of-school children, Nigeria has over 24 million reasons to fear what lies ahead if we fail to act. No nation grows beyond the quality of its human capital, and education is the foundation for building that capital,” he said.

Obi further emphasized the role of education in preparing Nigeria’s youth for a rapidly changing world driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technological innovation.

“In a time when AI is transforming the world of work and innovation, education is no longer optional — it is essential for daily life. We must equip our young people with the knowledge and skills to compete globally, not just to survive but to lead,” he added.

He praised the Nigeria Friendship Association for its continuous contributions to education and philanthropy, stating that their efforts symbolize hope for a better Nigeria.

“The efforts of associations like the Nigeria Friendship Association give hope that together, we can rebuild Nigeria through learning, compassion, and collective action,” Obi said.

He concluded his address with a message of optimism: “A New Nigeria is POssible.”