Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has expressed concerns about Africa’s security challenges, stating that non-state actors have taken over security in some African countries. He emphasized this during an international dialogue in Athens, Greece, attended by former presidents, government officials, and other global leaders.
Obi identified variables hindering security and peaceful coexistence in Africa, including unemployment, corruption, poverty, and inequality. He noted that over 50% of the world’s multidimensionally poor population resides in Sub-Saharan Africa, with Nigeria and Congo having over 60% of their populations living in poverty.
To address these issues, Obi advocated for:
- Enhancing Collective Security: Urgent attention to improve security and reduce inequality
- Investing in Critical Areas: Developing health, education, and addressing poverty, unemployment, and hunger
- Confronting Insecurity: Reassuring citizens of the state’s ability to maintain security without non-state actor interference
- Tackling Corruption: Vigorous action against corruption
He emphasized that future African leaders must take bold, transformative actions to achieve people-centered development. Obi believes Nigeria has the resources to drive positive change and remains committed to putting the nation on the right path ¹.
