By Myke Uzendu, Abuja
Former Anambra State governor and leading presidential figure in the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has expressed concern over the future of Nigerian children, particularly boys, citing insecurity, hunger, poor access to education and healthcare, and rising social challenges as major threats to their development.
Obi made the remarks in a message marking the International Day of the Boy Child, where he called for greater investment in children’s welfare and protection to secure the nation’s future.
Referencing the late Nelson Mandela, Obi quoted: “There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children,” saying the condition of Nigerian children reflects deeper societal challenges.
According to him, the occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on the realities facing boys in a country battling insecurity, mass abductions, hunger, and inadequate investment in critical sectors.
“Yesterday, the world celebrated the International Day of the Boy Child. For me, it served as a moment for deep reflection on the future of our boys in a country that grapples with severe insecurity, large-scale abductions, hunger, and insufficient investment in healthcare and education, all of which threaten the lives and prospects of our children,” Obi stated.
The former presidential candidate of Labour Party in 2023, said children are often described as future leaders but questioned how they could effectively assume such responsibilities without adequate support and protection during their formative years.
He identified hunger, malnutrition, poor access to education and healthcare, insecurity, and moral decline as major obstacles confronting Nigerian boys.
“For the boy child to grow into a responsible and productive adult, it is crucial to provide him with a solid foundational education, equip him with useful skills, and mentor him with progressive values that contribute to a better society,” he said.
Obi also cited American social reformer Frederick Douglass, quoting: “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men,” while urging leaders to prioritise investment in children’s development.
He called for an end to what he described as neglect of young boys and stressed the need to secure their future through quality education, skills acquisition, and opportunities for growth.
Addressing Nigerian boys directly, Obi encouraged them to remain hopeful despite prevailing challenges.
“To all the boys out there: hold on to your dreams. We are working towards creating a nation that not only safeguards your lives and invests in your futures but also nurtures your growth and inspires your ambitions,” he said.
Obi concluded his message with his recurring call for national transformation.
