- Peter Obi says political infighting is worsening Nigeria’s poverty crisis.
- Over 141 million Nigerians now live below the poverty line.
- Low-income families spend nearly 70% of earnings on food.
- Obi calls for urgent reforms in jobs, food systems, and social protection.
Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s deepening poverty, warning that while politicians focus on power struggles, millions of Nigerians are slipping further into economic hardshi
Speaking via his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Peter Obi lamented that political leaders are more concerned about party control and positioning ahead of future elections than addressing the daily struggles of ordinary citizens.
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According to him, weak income growth, rising living costs, and poor social protection systems have pushed Nigeria into a dangerous poverty spiral. He noted that many low-income households now spend up to 70 per cent of their income on food alone, leaving little room for healthcare, education, or savings.
“While politicians scramble for positions and party control, even before elections are concluded, millions of Nigerians are being pushed deeper into poverty,” Obi said.
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Citing available data, Obi revealed that about 62 per cent of Nigerians, roughly 141 million people are currently living below the poverty line. He added that poverty levels have continued to rise sharply in recent years, with millions falling into hardship between 2023 and 2025.
Obi referenced economic reports which highlight weak real income growth, high energy costs, expensive transportation, and unstable exchange rates as major factors worsening the situation. Despite a slight moderation in headline inflation, everyday costs remain unbearable for most households.
The former governor also compared Nigeria’s trajectory with countries like India and Indonesia, which have significantly reduced poverty through long-term investments in education, healthcare, agriculture, and social welfare.
He warned that children born in Nigeria today face one of the highest risks of being born into poverty globally, describing the situation as a national failure and a serious threat to the country’s future.
Obi called for immediate structural reforms, stressing that leadership must shift focus from politics to people.
“The rising tide of poverty weakens purchasing power, stifles small businesses, and threatens economic recovery. A New Nigeria is possible, but only if leadership puts citizens first,” he said.
