Independence Day: Peter Obi says Nigeria remains difficult place to live

Former Anambra State governor and presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has described Nigeria as one of the most difficult countries to be born into, citing insecurity, poverty and poor living conditions.

Obi made the statement in his Independence Day message on Thursday as Nigeria marked its 66th anniversary of independence.

He said the country had made progress in some areas since gaining independence in 1960 but argued that the current conditions facing many Nigerians remained a cause for concern.

According to Obi, insecurity, unemployment, poverty and inadequate infrastructure have continued to affect the quality of life of citizens.

He said the situation was particularly concerning for young Nigerians, who he described as facing limited opportunities despite the country’s human and natural resources.

Obi called for greater investment in education, healthcare, infrastructure and job creation, saying these areas were necessary to improve living conditions.

He also urged political leaders to prioritise policies that would improve the welfare of citizens rather than focusing primarily on political interests.

Obi said Nigeria’s independence anniversary should provide an opportunity for leaders and citizens to reflect on the country’s challenges and work towards addressing them.

Nigeria became independent from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960.