Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, has met with Nigerians in Diaspora in Johannesburg as his final engagement in South Africa.
In a Facebook post on Monday, Obi said he had a frank and emotional dialogue with Nigerians, adding that the meeting reflected the realities confronting Nigerians at home and abroad.
He said participants raised passionate questions on diplomacy, the treatment of Nigerians overseas, the political situation in Nigeria, and the desire of many young Nigerians abroad to return home and contribute to nation-building if conditions improve.
“I also reminded our people that the respect any citizen receives abroad is often tied to how respected their nation is at home,” Obi said.
“A country that works, protects its institutions, upholds justice, and cares for its people naturally commands global respect. This is why leadership and governance must remain people-oriented, accountable, and rooted in competence and integrity.”
While acknowledging the frustrations and pains expressed by those in attendance, Obi urged Nigerians to continue acting within the law regardless of provocation or difficulty.
“Nation-building demands discipline, civic responsibility, and the willingness to pursue change through constructive engagement,” he said.
The interaction, he added, reinforced his belief that Nigerians across the world remain hopeful about the country’s future despite present challenges.
“Our task as leaders is to inspire that hope with sincerity, measurable action, and a commitment to building a secure, productive, and inclusive Nigeria,” Obi said.
