Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has unveiled the second phase of his “New Nigeria” policy roadmap, identifying education and healthcare as the key drivers of economic growth, national security and inclusive development.
The policy document, released on Thursday, builds on the first phase of his national renewal agenda unveiled on July 1 and focuses on strengthening Nigeria’s human capital to create a more productive and globally competitive economy.
Obi said meaningful investment in education and healthcare is essential for sustainable national progress, arguing that countries that prioritise their people enjoy greater prosperity and stability.
He described the two sectors as the bedrock of a renewed Nigeria, stressing that improving access to quality education and healthcare would help reduce poverty, expand opportunities and address some of the root causes of insecurity.
According to him, education gives every Nigerian the chance to succeed regardless of background while equipping young people with the knowledge and skills needed to avoid crime and violent extremism.
The former Anambra State governor dismissed the growing notion among some youths that “education is a scam,” insisting that education, supported by quality healthcare, remains the most reliable route to personal success and national development.
Drawing from Nobel Prize-winning economist Angus Deaton’s research on health, wealth and inequality, Obi argued that the world’s leading economies achieved their success through sustained investment in human capital.
He cited Singapore’s education reforms and China’s development under Deng Xiaoping as examples of how strategic investment in education can accelerate national transformation.
As part of his proposals, Obi said primary education would be strengthened through community and local government participation, with parents playing active roles and school curricula tailored to reflect local economic needs.
He also promised increased federal support for states to expand Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), improve secondary education and equip young Nigerians with skills required in today’s economy.
The former governor further pledged to reposition Nigerian universities by promoting greater specialisation in teaching and research, enabling institutions to compete internationally while producing graduates with industry-relevant expertise.
Obi said additional phases of the roadmap would address other priority areas of governance and the economy, maintaining that rebuilding education and healthcare remains critical to achieving a secure, productive and prosperous Nigeria.
Reaffirming his vision, he declared, “A New Nigeria is Possible.”
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