Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called for stronger international partnerships to support Nigeria’s economic development.
He said increased investment in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) is critical to creating jobs and building a productive economy.
Obi made the call in a statement shared on Wednesday following his participation in a high-level roundtable organised by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) in Berlin, Germany.
According to him, the event, titled “Nigeria in 2027 and Beyond,” brought together policymakers, diplomats, development experts, business leaders, representatives of international organisations and members of the global media to discuss Nigeria’s democratic future and its place in the international community.
The former Anambra State governor said discussions focused on Nigeria’s democratic journey beyond the 2027 general elections, development cooperation, international affairs and ways to strengthen bilateral partnerships that would stimulate economic growth and improve citizens’ welfare.
Obi said a major highlight of the engagement was the need to deepen collaboration with international partners to support SMEs, which he described as the backbone of every productive economy because of their role in job creation, innovation, wealth generation and sustainable development.
“Nigeria’s future is bright, but only if we make the deliberate choices that will move our country from consumption to production, from poverty to prosperity, and from division to unity. By embracing good governance, fiscal responsibility and productive partnerships with the international community, we can build an economy that works for all Nigerians,” Obi stated.
He added that participants also explored ways to strengthen democratic institutions, improve governance, expand trade and investment opportunities, promote regional stability and create an environment capable of attracting both local and foreign investors.
Obi said he was encouraged by the level of interest shown by participants, noting that the attendance of senior officials from the German Federal Government, development agencies, business associations, policy institutes, international organisations and global media reflected Nigeria’s strategic importance on the global stage.
He stressed that Nigeria has the human and natural resources needed to become a prosperous and globally competitive nation but said the country requires “competent, accountable and compassionate leadership” that prioritises investments in education, healthcare, productive enterprises, the rule of law and strong institutions.
Obi maintained that Nigeria’s future depends on deliberate policy choices that would shift the country from consumption to production, reduce poverty, strengthen national unity and restore its global standing.
He also thanked the European Council on Foreign Relations for the invitation, describing the discussions as important for promoting mutual understanding, strengthening international cooperation and building lasting partnerships for the benefit of Nigeria, Africa and the wider global community.
