Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has challenged young Africans to take ownership of the continent’s future by dismantling corruption and investing in people.

Obi, while speaking on the theme, ‘The Making of Africa’s Future Presidents’, at the University of Cambridge’s ‘African Together’ conference, urged the next generation to embrace leadership built on competence, compassion, and character. He drew lessons from nations like China, India and Vietnam, showing how strategic investments in education, health, and poverty reduction can drive transformation.

“You are the future presidents of Africa. But before that future can be realised, we must dismantle corruption and rascality in governance,” Obi said, drawing loud applause. “We must rebuild our nation on the pillars of competence, compassion and character.”

Drawing from his political experience and global development models, Obi referenced countries like China, India, Indonesia, and Vietnam, which turned poverty into progress through visionary leadership and people-centred investments.

“If we invest in education, health and lifting people out of poverty, the multiplier effect will be immeasurable. Development is not a mystery; it is a decision,” he declared.

Organised by the African Society at Cambridge, the conference drew participants from across the continent and the Diaspora, united in a shared commitment to reimagining African leadership.

In closing, Obi challenged the youths not to sit on the sidelines of governance, adding: “We must all get involved. We must insist on leaders with integrity. That is how a new Nigeria and a new Africa will emerge. A new Nigeria is Possible.” (Guardian)