BERLIN, Germany – Former Anambra State Governor, Labour Party presidential candidate 2023, and Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi on Wednesday participated in a prestigious international roundtable organised by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), focused on Nigeria’s future trajectory.
The closed-door discussion, titled “Nigeria in 2027 and Beyond,” convened policymakers, diplomats, development experts, business leaders, representatives of international organisations, and global media at the ECFR’s Berlin office.
Obi described the engagement as an opportunity to discuss Nigeria’s democratic journey, international partnerships, economic development, and strategies to strengthen bilateral ties with European and global actors.
Focus on SMEs and Obi’s Vision for Nigeria
A major emphasis of the discussions was supporting Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), which Obi described as “the backbone of every productive economy” essential for job creation, innovation, and sustainable development.
In his remarks, Obi stressed the need for stronger democratic institutions, improved governance, expanded trade and investment, and regional stability. He called for the creation of an enabling environment that builds confidence among citizens, investors, and international partners.
“I reiterated my unwavering belief that Nigeria possesses all the human and natural resources required to become a prosperous, secure, and globally competitive nation,” Obi stated. “What is required is competent, accountable, and compassionate leadership that prioritises investment in people, education, healthcare, productive enterprise, the rule of law, and strong institutions over politics of consumption.”
He urged a national shift “from consumption to production, from poverty to prosperity, and from division to unity,” adding that good governance, fiscal responsibility, and productive international partnerships are key to building an economy that works for all Nigerians.
International Attention on Nigeria
The presence of senior representatives from the German Federal Government, development agencies, business associations, policy institutes, and international organisations underscored Nigeria’s strategic importance on the global stage, according to Obi.
He expressed appreciation to the European Council on Foreign Relations for the invitation and praised the “frank, engaging, and constructive” nature of the exchange.
“A New Nigeria Is Possible,” Obi concluded.
The roundtable reflects growing international interest in Nigeria’s political and economic direction ahead of the 2027 general elections and highlights Obi’s continued engagement with global policy platforms following the 2023 presidential election.
