The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, in the 2027 general elections, Peter Obi, holding World Press Conference on Friday, opened the electioneering campaign with identification of diverse socio-economic woes plaguing the country.

Obi remarked that "public office is not a reward; it is a responsibility to the people."

He noted that Nigeria faces several serious challenges. He observed that some of them are, indeed, of existential proportions.

Obi highlighted: "According to the IMF, 63%, or over 140 million Nigerians, live at or below the national poverty line.

"...humanitarian agencies estimate that 35 million people will need food assistance during the 2026 lean season.

"About 3.6 million Nigerians remain internally displaced, largely because of conflict and insecurity.

"Each year, millions of young people enter the labour market, yet, too many struggle to find productive opportunities.

"Weak infrastructure, unreliable power, insecurity, and the excessive cost of doing business continue to burden households and constrain enterprise."

Obi declared: "These are more than statistics. They reflect the daily realities of Nigerian families, farmers, workers, students, and businesses."

Obi maintained that his address marked the commencement of the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly campaigns.

He acknowledged that Wednesday, 19 August 2026, marked the official start of the campaign period for the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly elections, according INEC timetable.