The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has said Nigeria’s most important reform should be a transformation of its leadership.

Obi made the statement after meeting young Nigerian professionals in Washington, DC, where discussions focused on good governance, the challenges facing the country and reforms needed to move it forward.

The former Anambra State governor said economic, political and institutional reforms were important, but argued that their success ultimately depended on the quality of leadership entrusted with managing the country.

He said Nigeria could not rise above the character, competence, capacity and commitment of its leaders.

Obi said the country had no shortage of intelligent people, natural resources or hardworking and innovative young Nigerians.

According to him, what Nigeria had lacked for too long was leadership that genuinely prioritised citizens and treated public resources as a trust.

He called for leadership that would strengthen institutions, invest in education and healthcare, support businesses and entrepreneurs, create jobs and provide greater opportunities for young people.

Obi also highlighted the contribution of Nigerians living abroad, saying the diaspora should be regarded as an important partner in national development.

He said Nigerians across the world had demonstrated their abilities in medicine, technology, engineering, law, education and business.

The former governor said his interaction with the professionals in Washington reinforced his belief that Nigerians possessed the talent and capacity needed to contribute meaningfully to rebuilding the country.

He urged leaders to create conditions that would enable Nigerians at home and abroad to participate more effectively in national development.