In just two years, we’ve witnessed maximum damage to our nation. That means two years can also be enough to turn things around for the better
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, has stated emphatically that a single four-year term is sufficient to lay a solid foundation for good governance in Nigeria.
He made this assertion during a live interview on Sunday Politics, a political programme on Channels Television, aired on Sunday night.
Reaffirming his commitment to contest in the 2027 presidential election, Obi expressed confidence in his ability to initiate meaningful reforms and set Nigeria on the right trajectory within just one term in office.
According to him, four years may not be enough to solve all of Nigeria’s problems, but it is adequate to establish a clear direction and demonstrate sincere leadership.
“Four years is enough to understand the issues and begin to address them. You don’t need to solve every problem overnight,” Obi said during the interview.
When asked directly by the host, Seun Okinbaloye, whether he was pledging to serve for only one term if elected, Obi responded without hesitation: “Absolutely. I mean it completely. You may not achieve 100 per cent results, but what Nigerians expect is 100 per cent effort and sacrifice.”
The former Anambra State governor underscored the importance of purposeful leadership and a clear sense of direction. Using a metaphor, he explained: “If someone sets out for Kaduna, the people want to see that person on the Kaduna road.
“But if you say you are going to Kaduna and find yourself heading toward Lagos, then there’s a problem. What is happening in Nigeria now is that we say we are heading in one direction, but our actions are going in the opposite direction.”
Obi further reiterated his position with strong conviction, stating, “I have said this clearly—and I put it in capital letters—I do not need more than four years. In that time, I will show Nigerians what good governance looks like and chart a new course for the country.”
Citing the rapid deterioration in the country over a short period, Obi argued that positive transformation is also possible within a similar timeframe.
“In just two years, we’ve witnessed maximum damage to our nation. That means two years can also be enough to turn things around for the better,” he said.
He also spoke about the importance of empathy and humane leadership. “People want to wake up and see a president who genuinely cares, who shows compassion. Unfortunately, what we have today is a country where compassion is completely lacking,” Obi lamented.
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