, Peter Obi, has stated that while he is not desperate to become Nigeria’s president){kind=link}
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has stated that while he is not desperate to become Nigeria’s president, he remains deeply committed to seeing meaningful development and transformation across the country.
Obi made this remark on Saturday during a special Sabbath church service in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State, organized to mark the second anniversary of Governor Alex Otti’s inauguration. Otti, also of the Labour Party, has been widely praised for his developmental strides since assuming office.
Speaking to the congregation, Obi acknowledged the immense difficulty of governing Nigeria, especially for leaders who are determined to do the right thing.
He encouraged Governor Otti to remain steadfast in his commitment to good governance, noting that the progress so far in Abia is both visible and commendable.
“We are here to celebrate two years of meaningful difference. People often say they need eight, ten, or twenty years to deliver, but I’ve always believed that even a single day can make a difference. What’s happening in Abia is visible. You don’t need to hear it on the radio or be told—it’s clear. And that’s what we’re celebrating,” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor expressed satisfaction with the positive changes being recorded under Otti’s administration and called on the people of Abia to continue supporting the governor in his mission to transform the state.
In his response, Governor Alex Otti attributed the achievements of his administration over the past two years to divine guidance and grace. While acknowledging the hard work of his team, Otti emphasized that success would not have been possible without God’s backing.
“We’re gathered here in gratitude to God. Yes, we’ve worked hard, but hard work alone isn’t enough. Without God’s favor and increase, efforts can amount to nothing,” the governor said.
He also thanked Peter Obi for his consistent support of the administration, the civil servants, and the people of Abia. Otti further expressed appreciation to the church for its ongoing prayers and spiritual backing.
Earlier in the service, Pastor Enyinnaya Uguru, former president of the Abia North Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, delivered a message titled “At the Fullness of Time.”
He highlighted that Governor Otti’s eventual emergence in 2023 was part of God’s divine timing, following years of perseverance and failed attempts. He urged leaders to celebrate their present achievements with humility and caution, warning that losing focus on the future could be detrimental.
“Delays are often periods of preparation. God’s purpose for your life manifests when the time is right,” Uguru said.
The clergyman also took a swipe at some government-owned media outlets, accusing them of misinformation. However, he praised Otti’s leadership, stating: “You are doing well. I say this not out of sentiment, but based on verifiable evidence.”