Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in last year’s general election, has highlighted the connection between Africa’s security challenges and poverty, noting that over 50% of the continent’s population is multi-dimensionally poor.
He made these remarks during an international dialogue with global leaders in Athens, Greece, which included former presidents and high-ranking government officials.
In his address, Obi pointed to several factors exacerbating security issues in Africa, including unemployment, corruption, and inequality.
He stated, “I joined global leaders, former presidents, prime ministers, military chiefs, and renowned academics in Athens for a Leadership Dialogue focused on governance, security, and economic challenges in today’s world.”
He emphasized the need for leaders to recognize the profound global and generational transformations facing the continent.
Obi noted that despite Africa’s vast human and material resources, significant unmet needs remain in global governance.
“Urgent attention must be given to enhancing collective security, lifting people out of poverty, and reducing injustice and inequality in society,” he asserted.
Obi pointed out the alarming levels of insecurity, corruption, and poverty across Africa, stating that Nigeria and Congo have over 60% of their populations living in poverty amid severe inequality.
He warned that non-state actors have increasingly taken control of security in some African nations, attributing this trend to underinvestment in critical areas such as health and education.
Obi urged future African leaders to adopt bold and transformative actions for people-centered development. “They must confront insecurity head-on and reassure citizens of the state’s ability to maintain security,” he emphasized.
He also called for a vigorous approach to tackling corruption and investing in essential sectors to address pressing challenges like poverty, unemployment, and hunger.
“Nigeria has all the resources needed to move in this direction, and we remain committed to placing the nation on the right path,” Obi concluded.
