Peter Obi urges Nigerian children to read, dream big, embrace innovation

Education, Events-Festivals

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Presidential aspirant of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on Nigerian children to remain hopeful, pursue knowledge, and embrace innovation as the nation marked the 2026 Children’s Day celebration.

In a heartfelt motivational letter on Tuesday, Obi encouraged children across the country to continue dreaming beyond their present realities while preparing themselves to become future leaders, innovators, scientists, and nation-builders.

The former Anambra State governor, who is widely expected to emerge as the NDC presidential candidate for the 2027 election, described Nigerian children as the “vibrant pulse” of the nation and the foundation upon which the country’s future rests.

“As we honour you today, I reflect on the incredible talent, energy, and resilience you possess. You are not only the future of our nation but also its vibrant pulse in the present,” Obi stated.

According to him, every Nigerian child carries enormous potential capable of competing globally if given access to quality education, healthcare, and the right opportunities.

“Each time I look into the eyes of a child in Nigeria — whether in a classroom, a displaced persons camp in Benue, or on the streets of Lagos — I see unparalleled potential. I envision future scientists, tech visionaries, leaders, and builders who can stand toe-to-toe with the world’s best if they have access to the right resources,” he said.

Obi stressed that the true test of leadership lies in how a nation treats its children, lamenting the continued rise in the number of out-of-school children and the poor access to healthcare and security for many young Nigerians.

He described it as unacceptable that basic education, healthcare, and safety were still treated as privileges rather than fundamental rights.

“The true measure of a nation’s leadership lies in how it cares for its youngest members,” he said.

The NDC chieftain argued that Nigeria’s transformation into a productive and globally competitive nation would only be possible through deliberate investments in human capital development, especially education and healthcare.

According to him, neglecting children today amounts to mortgaging the future of the country.

“Leaders, parents, and educators must acknowledge that the best investment a nation can make is in developing its human capital, particularly through foundational education and healthcare,” Obi stated.

“Failing to invest in our children today is akin to borrowing from our future,” he added.

Addressing children directly, Obi urged them to remain ambitious, intellectually curious, and technologically aware in an increasingly fast-changing global environment.

“Always keep dreaming. Your current situation does not limit your potential,” he said.

“Remain curious. Engage in reading, learning, and adopting new technologies. The world is evolving rapidly, and you have the intellect to lead that evolution.”

He also encouraged Nigerian children to take pride in their identity, describing Nigerians as resilient, brilliant, and destined for greatness despite existing challenges.

Obi further assured children that efforts toward building a “new Nigeria” would continue, promising a country where schools are safe, opportunities are accessible, and young people can pursue their dreams without fear or limitation.

“We will continue our efforts to cultivate a new Nigeria — one where your dreams are recognised, schools are safe, and your future is assured,” he said.