Elder statesman and prominent Igbo leader Jim Nwobodo has renewed calls for the emergence of an Igbo president in Nigeria, expressing hope that the long-held aspiration would one day be realised.
Nwobodo made the remarks on Tuesday while receiving former Anambra State governor Peter Obi and a delegation of Igbo leaders who paid him a New Year visit at his ancestral home in Amechi, Enugu South Local Government Area.
Reflecting on the region’s political journey, the former Anambra governor said the Igbo people had yet to receive a fair deal in Nigeria, despite their foundational role in the country’s history. He urged Obi to remain focused and steadfast in his political pursuit.
“So we continue to pray that the day will come when an Igbo man becomes president of Nigeria,” Nwobodo said, speaking with the authority of an elder statesman.
He described Peter Obi as a widely respected and broadly accepted figure, noting that the former governor enjoys goodwill across political and ethnic divides. Among those who accompanied Obi were Ben Obi, Sam Egwu, Okwesilieze Nwodo, and Gil Nnaji.
Nwobodo said his role had evolved beyond partisan politics, adding that he now speaks as a statesman offering prayers and guidance for the next generation of leaders. He expressed confidence in Obi’s character and leadership, citing their long-standing relationship dating back to Obi’s tenure as governor.
“I believe that if we place God first, He will grant what we are asking for,” he said, expressing optimism that the current moment could mark a turning point for the Igbo.
The former sports minister also questioned the continued marginalisation of the Igbo within Nigeria’s political structure, recalling the contributions of the late Nnamdi Azikiwe, popularly known as Zik of Africa, to the country’s formation.
“We are not strangers in this land. We are among those who built Nigeria,” he said, adding that the nation’s founding fathers would be disheartened by the unfulfilled promise of inclusion.
Responding, Peter Obi said the visit was strictly a New Year courtesy call and not a political meeting. He said the delegation came to wish Nwobodo good health and longevity, adding that discussions on politics and the future would come later, accompanied by prayers and counsel.