The Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr Peter Obi, has reiterated his vision of a more united, secure and productive Nigeria after a closed-door meeting with Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, in Ibadan, as opposition consultations continue to gather pace ahead of future political alignments.

Obi, a key figure in the coalition movement within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), while speaking with journalists on Tuesday, after spending nearly two hours in a private meeting with Governor Makinde at the Oyo State Secretariat, described the engagement as part of ongoing consultations focused on Nigeria’s future.

Obi explained that his visit formed part of wider discussions with key stakeholders on national issues and the need for collaboration across political lines.

He said, “We have come to consult and to continue discussions with His Excellency the Governor on issues that concern the future of our country.

“My dear brother, the Governor, and I share a common belief that Nigeria must work for everyone, and that is the focus of our engagement.“

He further noted that the talks were not merely political manoeuvres but centred on building a stronger nation and fostering meaningful coalition efforts ahead of future elections.

“What we are doing is not about politics for its own sake, it is about Nigeria and how we can build a better nation for all our people.

“We are looking at a Nigeria that is united, secure and progressive, where every citizen has a fair chance to succeed based on merit and hard work, not connections.“

While stressing the importance of national development and shared purpose, Obi advocated the need to rethink priorities to build a country that citizens can be proud of.

“To him, “How do we build a better language? I’m not giving you the beat. Thank you. How can we build a better Nigeria, and Nigeria, where we will all be proud to save that country?”.

On inclusivity and equal opportunity, Obi highlighted his vision of a system where success is based on merit rather than personal connections.

Speaking on the expected outcome of such consultations, Obi maintained that the ultimate objective remained the progress and unity of the country.

He outlined the need for economic transformation, particularly a shift from a consumption-driven economy to one focused on production and job creation.