Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), said he would unveil a broader policy roadmap in the coming months, outlining plans to overhaul education, healthcare and workforce development as part of his campaign to shift Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy to a production-led one.
In a statement posted on X on Wednesday, Obi said the proposals would focus on curbing abuse in government, improving living standards and fostering national unity if elected president in the 2027 elections.
“My vision is anchored on a commitment to unity, inclusion, social justice, equity, and the freedom of every citizen to pursue lawful dreams,” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor said education and healthcare reforms would form the backbone of his economic agenda, describing investments in human capital as essential to boosting productivity and long-term economic growth.
Obi said his administration would establish a task force immediately after assuming office to tackle Nigeria’s out-of-school children crisis while expanding Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to support industrialisation.
He said vocational education would be linked to agriculture-based manufacturing and value addition through industrial parks planned across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.
Obi also proposed increased funding for TVET institutions through partnerships involving government, the private sector and faith-based organisations, drawing inspiration from Germany’s dual education system that combines classroom learning with apprenticeships.
“The situation in which unemployment remains high while Nigerian entrepreneurs establish businesses elsewhere because skilled labour is scarce must be confronted decisively,” Obi said. “Doing so is essential for the common good and for facilitating our transition from a consumption-driven economy to a production-driven one.”
The opposition candidate also pledged to strengthen character and civic education, arguing that trust, ethical leadership and shared national values are critical to governance and economic development.
Obi said further details of his policy agenda would be released in the weeks and months ahead as he seeks to build support for his presidential bid.
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