Peter Obi has called on leaders at all levels to ensure poverty is eradicated in Nigeria, saying, no nation “can be truly great” when a huge portion of its citizens live in poverty’
The former Governor of Anambra State made the call on International Day for the Eradication of Poverty on Friday 17 October, 2025.
He said, the World Bank reports, “over 139 million Nigerians now live in poverty”, the figure “shockingly” represents over half of the country’s population.
According to un.org:
The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty (17 October) underscores that ending poverty is about dignity, justice, and belonging, not just income.
This year’s theme focuses on ending social and institutional maltreatment by ensuring respect and effective support for families, with a clear goal: put the furthest behind first and build institutions that help families stay together, thrive, and shape their own futures.
Obi posted: “As the world marks the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, it is a solemn reminder for our nation that poverty is now a daily reality for millions of people, especially when our nation remains the country in the world, with the highest number of people living in poverty.
“According to recent World Bank reports, over 139 million Nigerians now live in poverty, a figure that shockingly represents more than half of our total population, reflecting not only deep economic hardship but also years of failed leadership, misplaced priorities, systemic corruption, policy failures, and an absence of compassionate governance.”
Obi said, Nigeria must make investment in human capital which will ensure the upliftment of Nigerians from poverty.
Obi further posted: “I call on leaders at all levels to make poverty eradication the core of our governance priorities. We must invest in human capital, through education, healthcare, job creation, and small businesses, which would provide a sustainable effort to lift our people out of poverty.
“Let us remember, a nation cannot be truly great when the majority of its citizens live in poverty.
“Together, we can make poverty history and restore hope to millions who have been left in despair.
“True progress is measured not by the wealth of the few, but by the well-being of all.”
