Former Nigerian presidential candidate Peter Obi addressed global investors yesterday at the 4th Africa Day event, hosted by the Club des Entrepreneurs Monégasques en Afrique (CEMA) in Monaco, emphasizing Nigeria’s potential as Africa’s leading investment destination.
Speaking on the future of Africa, with a particular focus on Nigeria in 2050, Obi highlighted the continent’s abundant resources and its youthful population, noting that 60% of Africa’s population are young people poised to drive innovation and productivity.
“By 2050, Nigeria is projected to have a population of around 320 million, with roughly 200 million youths in their productive years,” Obi stated. “With competent leadership—rooted in capacity, compassion, character, and commitment—Nigeria can implement the right developmental policies, reduce waste and corruption, and achieve remarkable progress.”
Obi outlined a vision for Nigeria’s economic growth, stressing investment in critical sectors such as security, health, education, and poverty alleviation. He projected that by maintaining a steady growth trajectory from 2030 to 2050, Nigeria could reach a $2 trillion economy with a per capita income of approximately $7,000. Sustained growth could see Nigeria achieving a $13 trillion GDP and $30,000 per capita income by 2075, aligning with Goldman Sachs’ long-term projections.
In his address, Obi encouraged investors to view Africa, and Nigeria in particular, as a gateway to the continent’s immense opportunities. He concluded by expressing confidence in a “new Nigeria” and a “new Africa” that are both achievable.
Anthony Emeka Nwosu
