Former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on Nigerian youths to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and actively participate in the nation’s political process, warning that scepticism about politics must not slide into surrender.
In an open letter addressed to sports-loving Nigerian Youths and posted on his X handle on Monday, Obi used the occasion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony to drive home his message.
He noted that while Nigerian artists Davido, Burna Boy and Rema performed at the global event, Nigeria’s Super Eagles were absent from the tournament, with several players of Nigerian descent instead representing other countries.
“Felix Nmecha, for instance, set a record by scoring the fastest goal at six minutes for Germany,” Obi wrote, using the example to underscore what he described as a broader national underachievement.
Obi who is 64-year old acknowledged that much of his own journey was behind him, but said the nation’s future belonged squarely to its young people.
“You are more of stakeholders in Nigeria’s future than I am,” he said. “By God’s grace, much of my journey is behind me, while yours lies ahead.”
Obi pointed to demographic data to stress the electoral power within reach of young Nigerians, noting that over 15 million Nigerians have turned 18 in the last three years alone -a voting bloc he said was large enough to determine outcomes at every level of government, from the presidency to local government chairmanships.
He urged youths to organise themselves without waiting for political parties or established structures, calling on them to mobilise across the streets, campuses, communities, workplaces, and religious and social groups.
“You do not need to belong to any party or wait for anyone to organise you,” he said. “Mobilise, debate, demand accountability, and take part in choosing those you wish to entrust with leadership.”
Obi also extended an open invitation to youth groups wishing to engage him directly, saying he would attend such gatherings to share his plans for the country.
He concludes by saying: “My young friends, this is your country. Take it back.”
