Former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, on Friday arrived in Cape Town, South Africa, to participate in the Spier Dialogue 2026, a high-level forum focused on Africa’s future and the pressing challenges confronting the continent.
Obi, who is scheduled to address attendees on Saturday, said the gathering was taking place at a particularly critical moment for Africa, as the continent navigates deepening concerns around governance, democracy, economic inclusion, urbanisation, migration, and leadership.
“Africa’s future should not be characterised by poverty amid abundance or by division instead of development,” he said, calling for “a transition from consumption to production, from divisive politics to politics built on competence and compassion, and from mere promises to tangible progress that serves everyday citizens.”
Obi disclosed in a statement posted on his X handle that upon arrival, he had the opportunity to meet with the Nigerian community in Cape Town for a heartfelt discussion about the recent challenges affecting African expatriates in South Africa, resulting in over two hours of fruitful dialogue.
He said he remains dedicated to advocating for a New Nigeria and a New Africa—one where governance genuinely serves the people, where the youth are equipped with education and opportunities, and where leadership is founded on integrity, service, and sacrifice.
The Spier Dialogue 2026 brought together leaders and stakeholders from across the African continent and beyond to deliberate on the region’s most urgent political and economic challenges, as well as the opportunities offered by Africa’s large and growing youth population.
