By BONIFACE AKARAH

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has attributed Nigeria’s absence from the ongoing FIFA World Cup to what he described as a failure of leadership, planning and institutional support rather than a lack of talent.

Obi made the assertion in a post on his official X handle as football fans across the world turned their attention to the tournament being hosted across three countries.

Addressing Nigeria’s teeming football enthusiasts, the former Anambra State governor urged them not to despair over the country’s failure to qualify for the global showpiece.

“As the World Cup begins today across three nations, I identify with our teeming football followers and urge them not to be despondent that Nigeria is not participating, despite the abundant talent in our land,” Obi wrote.

According to him, Nigeria’s absence from the competition reflects broader governance challenges confronting the country.

“Our failure to participate on the global stage is not due to a deficit of talent; it is a direct consequence of a deficit in leadership, planning, and institutional support,” he stated.

Obi argued that Nigeria possesses immense human potential capable of competing favourably with the rest of the world if provided with the right environment and leadership.

Using the World Cup as a metaphor for national renewal, he called on young Nigerians to see the country’s disappointment as motivation to build a better future.

“The task of building a better Nigeria rests primarily on the shoulders of the younger generation,” he said.

“Do not watch the World Cup with despair; rather, see it as a reminder of where Nigeria ought to be.”

He urged Nigerians to aspire beyond being spectators in global affairs.

“We must move our country from being a nation of mere consumers of global entertainment to a nation of proud producers and competitors,” Obi added.

The former governor concluded the message with his familiar expression of optimism about the country’s prospects.

“A new Nigeria is Possible,” he said.

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