Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called for stronger international partnerships, accountable leadership and greater support for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) as part of efforts to reposition Nigeria for sustainable development beyond 2027.
Obi made the call on Wednesday after participating in a high-level roundtable organised by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) in Berlin, Germany.
The discussion, titled “Nigeria in 2027 and Beyond,” brought together policymakers, diplomats, development experts, business leaders, representatives of international organisations and members of the international media to examine Nigeria’s future and its place in the evolving global landscape.
Sharing details of the engagement in a post on his official X account, Obi said the meeting focused on Nigeria’s democratic journey beyond 2027, international relations, development cooperation and strategies for strengthening bilateral partnerships that could accelerate economic growth and improve citizens’ welfare.
According to him, discussions also highlighted the critical role of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in driving economic transformation.
“A key focus of the engagement was how Nigeria can deepen collaboration with international partners to support Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), recognising that they remain the backbone of every productive economy and are indispensable to job creation, innovation, wealth creation, and sustainable national development,” Obi wrote.
He added that participants exchanged ideas on strengthening democratic institutions, expanding trade and investment opportunities, promoting regional stability, improving governance and creating an enabling environment capable of attracting investors and boosting public confidence.
Obi expressed appreciation for the level of engagement from participants, noting that the presence of senior representatives from the German Federal Government, development agencies, business associations, policy institutes, foundations, international organisations and global media reflected Nigeria’s strategic importance on the international stage.
Reflecting on his contribution at the forum, the former Anambra State governor said Nigeria has the resources needed to become a prosperous and globally competitive nation but stressed that leadership remains the decisive factor.
“Nigeria possesses all the human and natural resources required to become a prosperous, secure, and globally competitive nation. 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 stated.
Obi also expressed optimism about the country’s future, while emphasising the need for deliberate policy choices.
“Nigeria’s future is bright, but only if we make the deliberate choices that will move our country from consumption to production, from poverty to prosperity, and from division to unity. By embracing good governance, fiscal responsibility, and productive partnerships with the international community, we can build an economy that works for all Nigerians and restores our nation’s standing among the comity of nations,” he said.
He thanked the European Council on Foreign Relations for the invitation and described the discussions as important in strengthening international cooperation and building long-term partnerships.
“Conversations such as these remain vital in fostering mutual understanding, strengthening international cooperation, and building enduring partnerships for the benefit of Nigeria, Africa, and the global community,” Obi added.
He concluded his post with his familiar message: “A New Nigeria Is Possible.”