Peter Obi demands equal global role for Africa, urging global institutions to treat the continent as a strategic partner, not an aid recipient

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called for Africa to be recognised as an equal partner in shaping the future global order, arguing that the continent should no longer be viewed primarily through the lens of aid, humanitarian concerns or development statistics.

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Obi made the remarks in a statement issued on Thursday following a series of engagements in London on June 10, including a meeting with Alex Vines, Director of the Africa Programme at the European Council on Foreign Relations.

The discussions focused on strengthening strategic partnerships and advancing a deeper understanding of Africa’s evolving role in international affairs.

Peter Obi Demands Equal Global Role for Africa at a time when the continent’s demographic growth, economic potential and geopolitical relevance are increasingly shaping global conversations on trade, governance, innovation and sustainable development.

According to Obi, Africa must be treated as a serious stakeholder in international affairs and accorded the same level of recognition given to emerging global powers.

“It was emphasized that Africa must no longer be viewed merely through the prism of statistics or humanitarian concern, but as a serious and equal partner in shaping the future global order, much like India, Indonesia and other emerging centres of influence,” he said.

The former governor of Anambra State noted that the continent’s growing influence makes it imperative for global institutions and international partners to engage African nations as co-creators of solutions to global challenges rather than passive recipients of assistance.

He argued that Africa’s voice should carry greater weight in international discussions involving economic partnerships, governance frameworks, technological advancement and sustainable development.

Obi further maintained that meaningful global cooperation can only be achieved when African countries are recognised as equal stakeholders whose interests, aspirations and contributions are fully reflected in decision-making processes.

The former presidential candidate also stressed the importance of positioning Nigeria at the centre of conversations shaping the continent’s future, citing the country’s status as Africa’s most populous nation and one of its largest economies.

According to him, Nigeria should play a leading role in influencing policies and frameworks that affect Africa’s development trajectory and engagement with the wider world.

Obi said his discussions in London reinforced the need for stronger strategic relationships between African nations and the international community, built on mutual respect and shared interests.

He added that sustained dialogue and deeper international partnerships remain critical to unlocking Africa’s vast opportunities and driving inclusive economic growth across the continent.

The NDC presidential candidate described his engagements as part of broader efforts to promote ideas, knowledge-sharing and partnerships capable of advancing development and strengthening Nigeria’s position in an increasingly interconnected global environment.