As Nigeria marks its 64th independence anniversary, Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has called on Nigerians to reflect deeply on the nation’s journey since gaining independence.

In a heartfelt statement, Obi urged citizens, especially leaders, to take this day as an opportunity not only to celebrate but also to engage in sober reflection.

Obi acknowledged Nigeria’s vast resources—natural, human, and material—that position the country for greatness.

However, he stressed that the country’s current state of affairs calls for introspection, especially for leaders whose actions and inactions have contributed to the challenges the nation faces today.

He posed critical questions about Nigeria’s progress in key areas like poverty alleviation, education, and economic stability.

“Have we lifted our people out of poverty, or have we driven more into it? Have we made education accessible to every Nigerian child?” Obi asked.

He noted that despite the rich potential of the nation, Nigeria is underperforming in almost every measure of development, from security to economic productivity.

Obi pointed out that Nigeria ranks poorly in global indices of security, peacefulness, and corruption, with widespread disregard for the rule of law.

Comparing Nigeria to other countries that gained independence around the same time, Obi lamented that Nigeria stands out as a nation in decline, urgently in need of rescue from further decay.

On this day of celebration, Obi urged Nigerians to make a solemn commitment to build a nation free from tribal disunity, religious disharmony, and the state capture that has dragged it into failure.

He called for the creation of a New and Productive Nigeria that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens.

“That is the independence we should celebrate,” Obi said, emphasizing that Nigeria’s greatness remains possible.