By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – The Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi has identified competent leadership, adherence to rule of law and support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), as the key to unlock economic growth in Africa.
Obi stated this at the inaugural African Development Conference hosted by Rice University, while addressing the audience via Zoom as a guest speaker on the theme: “The Governance Revolution,”
The two-term governor of Anambra state who highlighted this when he took to his X account on Sinday, emphasized the central role of governance in unlocking Africa’s development potential.
The conference marked a historic first for the university in its 100-year history and was organized by the Rice University Association for African Development (RAADE).
In his address, Obi highlighted that “everything begins with competent leadership”—leadership characterized by capacity, compassion, and a commitment to measurable and inclusive development goals.
The former governor who further underscored the need for strategic investment in education to cultivate a skilled workforce, added that it a foundation for national productivity and sustainable growth. “Security of life and property, and strict adherence to the rule of law must be sacrosanct,” he said, stressing that governance reform must also include a decisive fight against corruption with accountability for perpetrators.”
He also lamented the need for support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which he described as the backbone of job creation and economic stability across the continent.
Drawing comparisons with countries like Indonesia and the Philippines, Obi noted that large populations, when matched with strong governance systems, can become powerful economic assets—an opportunity Africa must urgently harness.
He therefore commended the youth-led RAADE board for organizing the event and sparking crucial conversations around Africa’s future. “This conference is inspiring and commendable. It reflects the power of youth in our society to shape the future of our continent,” he said.
