Nigerian opposition figure Peter Obi has called on members of the European Parliament to deepen cooperation with Africa, saying the continent’s development is crucial to global stability.
Obi, who attended parliamentary sessions on Monday, held meetings with lawmakers from several committees, including Foreign Affairs, Civil Liberties, and the Africa-EU Delegation.
In a statement, he said Africa remains “richly endowed with natural resources and powered by a vast, youthful demographic,” yet continues to represent “the face of global poverty, largely because of bad leadership and entrenched corruption.”
Obi urged the EU to help strengthen democratic processes across the continent, noting that Nigeria needs leaders with “capacity and integrity to transform our nations.”
He also appealed for support in security, electricity, education and healthcare reforms, stressing that European interests are tied to Africa’s progress. “Our success as a nation and the success of Africa have a direct benefit to Europe,” he said.
Obi added that young Nigerians need investment and opportunities to unlock their potential. “They have the drive for productivity but are facing despair due to limited opportunities,” he warned.
The former governor concluded by insisting that a better future remains within reach. “Africa, and indeed Nigeria, can and must work for all,” he said. “A new Nigeria is possible.”
