The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called for Africa to be treated as an equal partner in shaping the future global order.
He insisted that the continent must no longer be viewed merely through the lens of humanitarian concerns and development statistics.
Obi made the call in a statement issued on Thursday following a series of engagements he held in London on Wednesday, June 10, as part of what he described as his continuing quest to deepen knowledge and contribute positively to society.
Among the engagements was a meeting with Alex Vines, Director of the Africa Programme at the European Council on Foreign Relations, where discussions centred on strengthening strategic relationships and advancing a deeper understanding of Africa’s evolving role in global affairs.
According to Obi, the meeting highlighted the urgent need for Africa to be recognised as a serious stakeholder in international affairs and accorded the same level of consideration as other emerging centres of global influence.
He noted that the continent’s growing demographic strength, economic potential and strategic importance make it imperative for global institutions and partners to engage Africa as a co-creator of solutions to global challenges rather than merely a recipient of aid and intervention.
“It was emphasized that Africa must no longer be viewed merely through the prism of statistics or humanitarian concern, but as a serious and equal partner in shaping the future global order, much like India, Indonesia and other emerging centres of influence,” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor stressed that Africa’s voice must be amplified in key international conversations on partnership, trade, governance, innovation and sustainable development, adding that the continent has a critical role to play in defining the future of global cooperation.
He further argued that Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous nation and one of its largest economies, should be positioned at the centre of such discussions and actively participate in shaping policies and frameworks that affect the continent’s future.
Obi said the discussions with the ECFR Africa Programme Director reinforced the importance of building stronger strategic relationships between African countries and the international community based on mutual respect, shared interests and constructive engagement.
According to him, meaningful cooperation can only be achieved when African nations are recognised as equal stakeholders whose perspectives, aspirations and contributions are valued in global decision-making processes.
The NDC presidential candidate maintained that sustained dialogue and stronger international partnerships remain essential to unlocking Africa’s vast potential and driving inclusive growth, innovation and development across the continent.
He added that his engagements in London formed part of broader efforts to promote ideas and partnerships capable of advancing development and strengthening Nigeria’s place in an increasingly interconnected world.
Obi concluded the statement by reiterating his belief in Nigeria’s prospects for transformation, declaring that “A New Nigeria is Possible.”
