Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has criticized Nigeria’s political culture, saying the country cannot progress when politicians enjoy more wealth and influence than entrepreneurs.
Speaking at a recent conference on entrepreneurship, Obi lamented that politics has become the most attractive career path in Nigeria, describing it as a sign of a dysfunctional society.
“Any society where you see people in government doing better than entrepreneurs is a failed country. That’s why we’re failing,” he said.
According to Obi, wealth should be driven by innovation, productivity, and enterprise rather than access to public office. He argued that when people make money without creating value, economic growth suffers.
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He further stated that in developed societies, entrepreneurs and innovators are highly respected because they create jobs and wealth. Citing the United States as an example, Obi recalled how former President Bill Clinton reportedly prioritized a visit from Bill Gates due to his economic impact.
The former Anambra governor also expressed concern over the plight of Nigerian youths, noting that many talented young people lack opportunities despite their potential.
“We have one of the smartest people on the surface of the earth,” Obi said, adding that with the right support, Nigerian youths could excel in technology and other productive sectors, just as India transformed its young population into a global technological force.
Obi maintained that corruption remains one of the biggest obstacles to national development, saying it discourages entrepreneurship, professionalism, and hard work.
“Entrepreneurship changes society and drives progress. But because of corruption, it cannot work. Corruption k+lls entrepreneurship, it k+lls professionalism, it k+lls hard work because people are making money easily, and that must change,” he said.
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