The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has urged Nigerians living in the United Kingdom to reconsider sending money to relatives who seek financial assistance at home, arguing that sustained support cannot resolve the underlying causes of Nigeria’s economic hardship.

Obi also called on Nigerians in the diaspora to encourage their relatives to vote for leaders whose policies promote productivity and economic development.

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He made the remarks during a town hall meeting with diaspora supporters in Manchester on Sunday, where he attributed the country’s economic difficulties to poor leadership and governance.

“You have people at home in Nigeria today who are begging you for money. Tell them no!” he said.

The former Anambra State governor argued that continuous financial assistance could ease immediate hardship without addressing the governance problems he believes contribute to it.

Obi also highlighted his record in public office, claiming that his approach to managing public funds distinguished him from other state governors.

“I’m not saying I’m a saint, but I saved money. I’ve not seen one governor who has saved 10 per cent of what I saved. No governor has done it,” he said.

He added that Nigerians should begin by supporting leaders they consider less corrupt as part of efforts to improve governance.

“Let’s start with this one that is less corrupt. That’s how other countries change,” Obi said.

The NDC candidate said his discussions with Nigerians in the diaspora reinforced the need for collective responsibility in addressing the country’s challenges.

He urged Nigerians to take the 2027 general election seriously, describing it as an important opportunity to influence the country’s direction through their votes.

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Obi’s remarks place governance, public financial management and economic productivity at the centre of his appeal to Nigerians at home and abroad ahead of the election.