Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has outlined key priorities of his proposed administration, pledging to reposition Nigeria through reforms in education, healthcare, industrialisation and human capital development.
In a statement issued on Wednesday to mark July 1, Obi said his vision for the country is anchored on national unity, inclusion, social justice, equity and the creation of opportunities for every Nigerian to pursue legitimate aspirations.
The former Anambra State governor said he would, in the coming weeks and months, present a comprehensive roadmap detailing how his administration intends to tackle governance challenges, improve the quality of life and place the country on the path of sustainable development.
According to him, the proposed blueprint seeks to curb abuse in government, restore public confidence in institutions and promote peace, unity and shared prosperity.
Obi identified education and healthcare as the cornerstones of his development agenda, describing investment in human capital as essential to Nigeria’s economic growth and long-term competitiveness.
He said a productive and prosperous nation could only be built on a strong foundation of quality education and accessible healthcare.
As part of his education reforms, Obi pledged to establish a presidential task force immediately after assuming office to significantly reduce the number of out-of-school children across the country.
He also promised to prioritise Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), saying it would provide the skilled workforce needed to drive industrialisation and economic diversification.
According to him, his administration would promote value addition in agriculture through the establishment of industrial parks in development zones across Nigeria’s geopolitical regions.
Obi said the plan would encourage local production, create jobs and reduce the country’s dependence on imports.
He further proposed increased funding for technical and vocational institutions through partnerships involving government, the private sector and faith-based educational organisations.
The NDC candidate said the arrangement would create apprenticeship opportunities similar to Germany’s dual vocational education model, enabling students to combine classroom learning with practical industry experience.
He lamented the paradox of high unemployment amid a shortage of skilled labour, noting that many Nigerian entrepreneurs were relocating their businesses abroad because of difficulties in finding qualified workers.
Obi said addressing the country’s skills gap was critical to transforming Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy into a production-based economy capable of generating sustainable employment.
He also pledged to strengthen character and civic education in schools to promote values such as integrity, trust, responsible leadership and national cohesion.
According to him, these values would form part of a broader governance framework designed to build a more united, productive and prosperous Nigeria.