Peter Obi says he can govern Nigeria from Kaduna if elected President

Peter Obi has said he could effectively govern Nigeria from Kaduna State if elected president, arguing that leadership should not be restricted by geography but defined by accessibility and responsiveness.

The former presidential candidate remarked on Sunday while meeting with stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna, as part of his ongoing nationwide consultations.

According to Obi, the proximity between Abuja and Kaduna makes it entirely feasible for a sitting president to operate seamlessly from either location when necessary. He stressed that governance should prioritise engagement and efficiency rather than rigid adherence to physical offices.

“Abuja to Kaduna is less than two hours,” he said. “There’s nothing stopping a president from holding meetings in Kaduna and returning to Abuja. In fact, I can serve Nigeria from Kaduna without any problem.”

During the visit, Obi met with party members and political figures, including gubernatorial hopeful Ahmed Tijjani and Senator Lawal Adamu, who represents Kaduna Central. He described the interaction as insightful, noting that many of those he engaged demonstrated a genuine commitment to public service rather than personal ambition.

Calls for unity, rebuild of Kaduna’s lost economic strength

Reflecting on Kaduna’s historical significance, Obi described the state as a former symbol of national unity and economic strength, recalling its past role as a hub for industry, agriculture, and commerce. He said restoring that legacy would require disciplined leadership and a renewed focus on the welfare of citizens.

He warned, however, that division remains one of Nigeria’s biggest obstacles to progress. According to him, rebuilding trust among citizens is just as important as economic reforms, especially in states like Kaduna that once embodied coexistence.

Obi argued that inclusive governance and fairness are critical to unlocking development, insisting that no society can advance meaningfully while deeply divided along ethnic or religious lines.

“A united and just society will always find a path to growth and stability,” he said, urging political actors to prioritise national cohesion over personal interests.

As part of his broader consultations, Obi also travelled to Kano State, where he met with Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and members of the Kwankwasiyya movement, signalling continued efforts to build alliances ahead of future political contests.

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