“Peter Obi: My Presidential Aspirations Are Not Born From Desperation”

In addressing graduates, Obi inspired them to adopt a mindset focused on service, underlining that true leadership is rooted in the drive for meaningful change rather than self-serving goals.

Peter Obi, the presidential hopeful from the Labour Party for the 2023 elections, criticized the current leadership in Nigeria and affirmed that he is not yearning for the presidency.

While speaking to students at their graduation, Obi called on them to pursue a spirit of service, highlighting that effective leadership is about fostering positive change rather than merely seeking authority.



“I aim to motivate you to be the agents of change and support,” he remarked. “Leadership is not about wanting control or holding positions.”

Responding to notions of desperation, he explained: “When people refer to my desperation, I clarify: ‘I am not desperate for the presidency; I am eager to see Nigeria thrive because it is capable of prosperity.’”

Obi called upon the youth of Nigeria to embrace the right leadership essential for the nation’s progress. He referenced economist James Robinson, mentioning, “Robinson noted last year that Nigeria knows what is needed to succeed but chooses not to act.”

The former governor compared Nigeria’s predicament to letting individuals who have already attained their goals continue to lead, warning that this kind of leadership can be detrimental.



“You cannot allow those who have outlived their usefulness to continue driving the country. You have the power to help reignite change. Utilize your strengths to transform society and avoid becoming part of the issue,” Obi advised.

He urged the youth to overcome the shortcomings of previous generations, asserting: “You are victims of the current situation because my generation and the ones before it failed to take the right actions. We are all paying the price.”