Former Anambra State governor and presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has outlined an ambitious plan to revitalise northern Nigeria, positioning agriculture, education, and poverty reduction at the centre of a sweeping economic transformation strategy.
In an interview with Arise TV, Obi stressed that unlocking the vast potential of the North would require deliberate investment, cross-regional collaboration, and strong political will. He disclosed ongoing engagements with key northern figures, including Nasir El-Rufai and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, aimed at building consensus around his development agenda.
“I am working with them so they can back me. Nobody can do what I intend to do in the northern part of Nigeria,” Obi said, projecting confidence in his capacity to deliver large-scale reform in the region.
Central to his vision is a decisive shift away from oil dependency towards agriculture-led growth. Obi argued that northern Nigeria’s expansive arable land presents a significant economic opportunity capable of surpassing crude oil revenues if effectively harnessed.
“Nigeria’s greatest asset is in the North,” he stated. “There is vast land for agriculture, and we can make more money through agriculture than we make from oil.”
Beyond economic gains, Obi linked agricultural investment to broader security and social outcomes. He maintained that addressing poverty, expanding access to quality education, and improving healthcare systems are critical to stabilising the region.
“If we want to secure the North today, we need to start investing in agriculture, pull people out of poverty, and invest in education and health. We have a future in the North, and I can see it,” he added.
ELIJAH ADEYEMI
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