Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on Nigeria’s political elites to actively support homegrown businesses, stressing that such enterprises are vital to the nation’s economic progress and job creation.
Obi made the statement via a post on X following his recent experience aboard Air Peace’s Lagos–London flight. Commending the airline for its professionalism, consistency, and competence, he emphasized the need for deliberate support and protection of indigenous companies operating in challenging economic conditions.
“I use this opportunity to appeal to Nigerian elites and political leaders to give strong and deliberate support to indigenous businesses,” Obi stated. “It is never easy to run any business in our difficult environment, let alone highly capital-intensive sectors like air and land transportation, especially given the challenges of competitiveness and rising operational costs.”
He warned against what he described as the harassment and intimidation of local businesses, insisting that rather than stifling these enterprises, leaders should encourage them through patronage and fair treatment.
“Nigerian businesses need our encouragement and patronage, not harassment or unnecessary intimidation. Supporting local businesses, particularly those that create massive employment, is critical for job creation, economic growth, and sustainable national development,” he added.
Obi’s remarks come amid a public altercation involving Air Peace and All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Adams Oshiomhole. The airline had accused Oshiomhole of disrupting operations at one of its airport offices after he allegedly arrived late for a scheduled flight. In response, Oshiomhole refuted the allegation, instead accusing Air Peace of exploiting passengers and claiming he acted in defense of others who were unfairly treated.
While Obi did not comment directly on the incident, his message was a clear call for unity in promoting and preserving the integrity of local businesses that serve both domestic and international markets.
Air Peace, Nigeria’s largest carrier, has been praised for its expansion into international routes and for being a symbol of indigenous entrepreneurship in a sector largely dominated by foreign competitors. Obi’s public endorsement underscores the broader debate over how best to foster a business-friendly environment that strengthens national industries in the face of economic and regulatory hurdles.
