Friday while addressing journalists at a world press conference in Onitsha, Anambra State.
He described the 2027 election as an important moment for Nigeria, urging voters to carefully examine the records, policies and plans of all presidential candidates before making their choice.
The former Anambra State governor highlighted poverty, insecurity, unemployment, poor infrastructure, unreliable electricity and the high cost of doing business among the major challenges facing the country.
Obi called on Nigerians to reject campaigns based on ethnicity, religion, propaganda, elitism and political connections. He also appealed to politicians and supporters to debate issues without violence or hatred.
According to him, his campaign team would travel across the country to listen to citizens and understand their concerns.
Obi also outlined his development priorities for Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, saying each region has unique economic potential that should be properly developed and connected to the national economy.
He said the North-West could benefit from greater investment in agriculture, livestock, irrigation, agro-processing and manufacturing, while the North-East should focus on reconstruction, agriculture, education, enterprise and regional trade.
For the North-Central, Obi highlighted food production, processing and responsible development of mineral resources. He identified manufacturing, technology, finance, trade and the creative sector as key areas for the South-West.
He said the South-East could build on its entrepreneurial and industrial strength through improved infrastructure and investment, while the South-South could expand beyond oil and gas into maritime services, fisheries and agriculture.
Obi also said the Federal Capital Territory should serve as an example of effective urban planning, transportation, housing, sanitation, security and public services.
Speaking about his experience in governance, Obi pointed to his time as governor of Anambra State, saying his administration focused on education, healthcare, infrastructure, fiscal discipline and institutional development.
He also acknowledged the governing experience of his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, particularly in education, technical training, scholarships, infrastructure and human-capital development during his tenure as Kano State governor.
Obi maintained that their experiences had reinforced their belief that Nigeria must invest in its people and manage public resources responsibly
