Peter Obi has called on the federal government to prioritize education as a cornerstone for national development, emphasizing its role in unlocking the vast potential of Nigerian youths.
The former governor made this statement via his verified X account while celebrating two young Nigerians whose exceptional achievements have brought pride to the nation.
Obi highlighted the stories of Eniola Shokunbi, a 12-year-old Nigerian girl in Connecticut, USA, and David Akiogbe , a 15-year-old Nigerian boy, as examples of what Nigerian youths can achieve when given the right opportunities and support.
Eniola Shokunbi, whose innovative design of an air filter aimed at reducing the spread of airborne diseases in schools, received $11.5 million in funding from the Connecticut State Bond Commission.
Her work showcases the ingenuity and problem-solving abilities of young Nigerians on a global stage.
David Akiogbe, on the other hand, impressed the world by scoring an outstanding 1580 on his SATs, a feat recognized by the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
His academic excellence underscores the intellectual potential within Nigeria’s youth.
Peter Obi, renowned for his advocacy for education and youth empowerment, described these achievements as a beacon of hope for the nation. He also used the opportunity to address the pressing issue of over 20 million out-of-school children in Nigeria, attributing the crisis to inadequate leadership.
“The inspiring stories of these young Nigerians represent the potential of millions of Nigerian children whose talents remain untapped, many of whom are among the over 20 million out-of-school children roaming the streets, all because of our uncaring attitude as leaders,” Obi remarked.
He further emphasized the need for immediate action:
“We must now focus on investing in their future through education. My continual support for education across the country stems from my unwavering belief that with the right investments in our youths, they will be able to explore their talents, develop their skills, and contribute productively to the development of our nation while excelling on the global stage.” he said.
Obi concluded by congratulating Eniola and David for their outstanding accomplishments and described their successes as a source of pride for the nation.
He reiterated his confidence in the potential of Nigerian youths and his vision for a “New Nigeria,” driven by education and empowerment.
The call to action remains clear: invest in education to transform Nigeria’s future.