Former Labour Party presidential candidate and now Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential flagbearer, Peter Obi, has blamed poor leadership for Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Obi said the country’s absence from the global football competition was not because Nigerians lack talent, but because successive leaders have failed to build an environment where young people can develop and succeed.
The former Anambra State governor made the remarks in a statement shared on his official social media page while reacting to activities surrounding the ongoing World Cup.
According to him, the strong presence of Nigerians and people of Nigerian descent at the tournament is proof that the country is blessed with exceptional talents across different fields.
He argued that many of those making Nigeria proud on the international stage achieved success despite the challenges at home, adding that better leadership would help the country unlock even greater potential.
“Nigeria’s absence from the World Cup stems not from a lack of talent but from a conspicuous deficiency in political leadership that has failed to create an enabling environment for talent development,” Obi stated.
He maintained that the achievements of Nigerian entertainers and athletes competing for other countries should serve as a wake-up call for the nation’s leaders.
Obi stressed that governments must deliberately invest in youth development, education and sports if the country hopes to compete favourably with other nations.
The former presidential candidate also praised Afrobeats star Davido for using the FIFA World Cup platform to draw global attention to Nigeria’s security situation.
He noted that the singer appeared in a custom-made black leather jacket carrying the inscription “BRING THEM HOME” and the names of 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers reportedly abducted by bandits in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Obi said the action went beyond entertainment and demonstrated how influential Nigerians can use their platforms to advocate for important national issues.
“By utilizing his international platform, Davido effectively highlighted Nigeria’s security crisis, transcending mere entertainment,” he said.
The NDC candidate added that the country’s security challenges require urgent action and should remain a matter of both national and international concern.
He, however, expressed confidence that Nigeria can overcome its current difficulties through responsible leadership and policies that create opportunities for young people.
According to him, with the right direction and commitment, the country can still achieve its full potential and build a future where its talents thrive at home instead of elsewhere.
