Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi has commended Ukraine, the war-torn nation for its recent donation of grains to Nigeria amidst the fight against nationwide hunger.
According to a post on his X handle, Obi said the gesture highlights the rare generosity of spirit exhibited by Ukraine, a nation embroiled in a brutal conflict with Russia, yet extending a helping hand to Nigeria.
Obi emphasised the significance of Ukraine’s act of solidarity, stressing the shared humanity it represents.
He underscored the importance of sound political leadership as a fundamental requirement for any nation aspiring to enhance the standard of living of its citizens.
He expressed dismay over Nigeria’s current reliance on foreign aid for food assistance, despite its vast arable land and abundant natural resources.
“It is disheartening that our once economically confident nation, blessed with vast arable land and abundant natural resources, now relies on a war-torn Ukraine for food assistance.”
He pointed out the stark economic disparity between Ukraine and Nigeria, noting Ukraine’s remarkable progress despite being at war.
Ukraine’s GDP per capita, which exceeded $4000 by 2022 despite the conflict, stands in contrast to Nigeria’s regressed GDP per capita of $2184.
Obi highlighted Ukraine’s successful cultivation of over 60% of its farmlands, contrasting it with Nigeria’s over 60% uncultivated lands.
To address this disparity and overcome the embarrassment of relying on foreign aid, Obi urged Nigerian leadership to prioritise investment in productive sectors like agriculture.
He stressed the importance of addressing insecurity to enable farmers to return to their fields, support a productive manufacturing sector, and bolster small businesses.
“In four to five years, this concerted effort can reverse the current trend, leading us toward a productive and new Nigeria that I believe is possible and within reach,” he concluded.
He reiterated his belief in the potential of a new Nigeria, urging leaders to seize the opportunity for transformative change.
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