FunTimes Magazine encountered His Excellency, Peter Gregory Obi from the inauguration of Aisha N. Braveboy, an executive of Prince George’s County, Maryland. In a candid conversation, he discusses what Nigeria needs: System reform, diaspora inclusion, and economic realism.
“Nigeria is not poor; it is poorly governed.” These words from H.E. Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 presidential contender, illustrate a vision that continues to inspire millions across Africa and its global diaspora. He believes the key to Nigeria’s transformation lies in activating untapped diaspora potential.
Obi strongly emphasizes diaspora engagement, likening the Nigerian diaspora’s influence to those in India and China. “They have the knowledge, the exposure,” he says, adding: “We must create an environment that allows them to contribute meaningfully. His approach to diaspora relations favors partnership and responsibility. National governments must create conditions for involvement, while the diaspora must be willing to serve.
Obi’s framing carries deeper cultural significance and his philosophy can be summed up in an Igbo proverb: “When you call someone while the village is chasing a cow, you believe that person has either the rope or the charm to subdue it.” In Obi’s eyes, the diaspora holds the very tools Nigeria needs; Global knowledge, skills, and influence; their inclusion goes beyond symbolism, It is strategic.
Peter Obi with Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie . Source: Facebook
Regarding the African and Caribbean youth abroad, Obi says: “We need you. Your knowledge is vital. But we must also fix the system back home so you can plug in.” His message reflects the dual need for systemic reform and a reconnection of young diasporans to their roots.
Obi’s disciplined lifestyle and values-driven approach reflect how he sustains a demanding public schedule. “I plan carefully,” he explains. “Everything I do is scheduled. That’s how I manage to be everywhere. Leadership, in his view, requires the three “P’s” -presence, purpose, and personal responsibility.
On the topic of governance, Obi is direct: “Cut the cost of governance,” he suggests. “Fight corruption head-on. Enforce the rule of law.”
He calls for restructuring Nigeria’s political model by advocating a quasi-parliamentary system with proportional representation. This shift, he believes, would foster robust opposition, broaden representation, and build public trust.
He supports full digitization of Nigeria’s electoral process, from booth-level vote counting to real-time transmission; this would eliminate ambiguity and build credibility. For voters frustrated with inconsistencies, this vision offers a step-by-step model for restoring confidence.
Peter Obi with Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Source: Facebook
Peter Obi with Sen. Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed. Source: Facebook
Obi also draws from his business background to advocate for an economic shift. “Support small businesses,” he says. “Cut waste. Invest in health and education. That’s how we become a productive nation.”
He views poverty not as fate, but as a result of misgovernance. Moving from a consumption model to production, he says, will require serious public investment and accountability.
Regionally, Obi wants Nigeria to lead through productivity. He points to free trade agreements, AfCFTA, as a way to deepen African cooperation and attract investment. “We have the largest market,” he reasons. “With good governance, we can be the engine for regional growth.
Reflecting on the 2023 elections, Obi supports legal reforms and a more inclusive political system. When asked if he would change anything in his journey, he says that he would not. “My experience in business taught me how small enterprises drive economies,” he says. “That’s what I bring to public service.”
H. E. Peter Obi remains a central voice for reform. His call to the diaspora is clear and culturally grounded, Nigeria’s challenges require more than internal fixes. Obi, the voice of reason and optimism, says they require all hands, from every corner of the world pulling together.
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Dr. Eric John Nzeribe is the Publisher of FunTimes Magazine and has a demonstrated history of working in the publishing industry since 1992. His interests include using data to understand and solve social issues, narrative stories, digital marketing, community engagement, and online/print journalism features. Dr. Nzeribe is a social media and communication professional with certificates in Digital Media for Social Impact from the University of Pennsylvania, Digital Strategies for Business: Leading the Next-Generation Enterprise from Columbia University, and a Master of Science (MS) in Publication Management from Drexel University and a Doctorate in Business Administration from Temple University.
