…. Blames Africa’s Poverty on Bad Leadership, Corruption
By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said Africa possesses enormous human and natural resources that should position the continent for rapid economic transformation, lamenting that poor leadership and corruption have continued to hinder its progress.
Obi spoke in Cape Town, South Africa, while delivering a guest lecture at the Spier Dialogue Event on “Policies for Growth in Africa” after earlier meetings with government ministers in the country.
According to him, Africa remains richly endowed with vast mineral deposits, more than 60 per cent of the world’s uncultivated arable land, and the youngest population globally, stressing that such advantages should be seen as strategic assets rather than liabilities.
Despite these strengths, Obi said the continent continues to struggle with underdevelopment due to weak institutions, corruption, poor leadership and the high cost of governance.
He urged African leaders to move away from “endless election cycles and politics” and focus instead on productivity, economic development and nation-building.
“The future of Africa lies in investing aggressively in Human Development Index indicators, especially education, healthcare, and lifting people out of poverty,” he said.
Obi noted that many African countries still grapple with low life expectancy, high infant mortality, widespread unemployment and rising poverty levels.
He also expressed concern over the collapse of small and medium-scale enterprises across the continent, blaming harsh economic conditions, inadequate infrastructure and inconsistent government policies.
The former presidential candidate called for competent and compassionate leadership committed to prioritising production over consumption and development over politics.
According to him, Africa can achieve sustainable prosperity by investing in its people, strengthening institutions, reducing the cost of governance, fighting corruption and creating a business-friendly environment.
“A New Africa is Possible,” Obi declared.
