Former Anambra State governor and 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has said he is not desperate to become Nigeria’s president but wants a stable and working country.
He spoke at the third edition of an all-night praise, evangelism and youth empowerment programme organised by the Faithspiration Initiative in Onitsha.
Obi said Nigeria is currently not working across key sectors, blaming leadership challenges.
He said greed, corruption, insecurity and lack of accountability have worsened the country’s condition, leaving citizens uncertain about the future.
He praised the organiser, Rev. Fr. Dr. George Adimike, for the initiative and said he prefers programmes that impact lives.
Obi said: “I was born and bred in Onitsha and up till date I still live in Onitsha from where I travel to any part of the world for a business venture and come back to my house here in Onitsha because I don’t have any other house any other place than in Onitsha here.”
He also supported the empowerment of about 30 youths at the event, contributing N500,000 to each beneficiary.
Obi urged them to use the funds wisely and focus on creating impact.
He said: “Money doesn’t make one happy.
“What makes you happy is the life you have impacted on the people and what you would be able to share with people.
“Let nobody tell you that you need all the money in the whole world before you become happy.
Don’t go about pursuing money; go out and pursue what would change the world.
“If you are part of people who want to change the world, money will come.
“Be encouraged, you will be better than me by doing the right thing.”
The event, themed “Ablazed with the Fire of God,” held at the Basilica Square of the Most Holy Trinity, brought together youths, church leaders and other stakeholders.
In his remarks, the organiser, Rev. Fr. Adimike, said the initiative is built on evangelism, education, entertainment and empowerment.
He said the programme has supported several youths since its inception.
Adimike said: “It was the Archbishop that inspired the initiative and supported it and we owe our progress to him. In fact, this initiative is part of youth evangelisation.”
He said about 30 youths have been empowered with N15 million to help them become self-reliant and avoid crime.
The funds were contributed by stakeholders, including members of the House of Representatives and other political and private sector figures.
The event also featured entertainment performances and a lecture on issues affecting Christianity in Igboland.
