Ogona Anita
After weeks of sustained criticism, including public jabs from aides of the presidency and backlash over his comments on Nnamdi Kanu’s detention, Peter Obi appeared to reclaim significant goodwill on Tuesday following his engagements at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France.
The former presidential candidate shared detailed updates on X, explaining that he held meetings with several committees: Foreign Affairs; Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs; the Africa-EU Delegation; Transport and Tourism; and Development, among others. He explained that the discussions focused on “shared challenges and opportunities” while stressing that “Africa’s future is closely tied to the strength of democratic institutions, human capital, and global partnerships.”
In the post, Obi emphasized Africa’s immense potential, Nigeria’s leadership deficit, and the need for Europe to deepen institutional partnerships that promote stability, growth, and accountable governance across the continent. He noted that he specifically discussed areas such as “security cooperation, energy transition, education, healthcare, trade, development, and youth empowerment,” arguing that Europe benefits directly when Africa becomes more stable and competitive.
Obi also called attention to the struggles of young people on the continent, saying Nigerian and African youths “have shown immense desire and drive for entrepreneurship and productivity,” but lack the enabling environment. He urged the EU to “support systems that make governance more transparent, reduce corruption, and prioritize investment in people.”
“Africa and indeed Nigeria can and must work for all and contribute to global developments,” he wrote, ending with: “A New Nigeria is POssible.”
For the first time in weeks, the response under Obi’s post reflected a noticeable departure from the tense, divided comment sections that trailed his recent remarks on national issues. This time, many Nigerians openly praised the tone, substance, and diplomacy of his Strasbourg engagements.
Some applauded the quality of the meetings; others praised what they described as a refreshing return to policy, structure, and global positioning.
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Among the supportive voices was @_calebtrader, who wrote: “You would have made a better government but Nigerians failed you… It was very clear you won the election.”
Similarly, @246Pantheraleo referenced Obi’s recent political clash in Anambra, saying: “I thank you for telling Soludo that you now play in the Champions League. The result is evident to all.”
Another user, @BizzyHand, praised his consistency: “Sir, we know who you are… You have shown capacity and competency in all ramifications of life.”
Supporters also applauded what they described as his global respect. @Edtoe wrote “Mention one Nigerian politician that matches PO’s work rate and influence? There is none.”
From another angle, @Original_stan1 described the visit as a model of responsible political engagement: “A thoughtful and visionary engagement… While others chase headlines, you’re building relationships that open doors for Nigeria’s growth.”
Some reactions took a direct swipe at the current administration. @A241465 wrote: “A President that’s so active and responsive… not Tinubu who lacks touch with events around him.”
Others framed the visit as international validation. @Pekuliapers commented: “Na Tinubu say em president, na Peter Obi the world dey invite to discuss Nigeria… Nigeria masses know you as our president.”
Several users highlighted that Obi’s global engagements reinforce his image as a leader who understands modern governance. @EmmaOkoreMD wrote: “A new Nigeria is POssible, but evil people feel threatened… May God give you strength.”
Others urged him to continue moving on the global stage. @Dcnwachukwu joked: “This is what you should be doing… Travel the world, speak on these podiums… Okwute leave Nigeria politics.”
More comments reinforced the idea that Obi remains widely admired despite recent controversies. @Chibuzo85836523 noted: “Even those that pretend not to like Peter Obi know he’s well-prepared to do this job.”
Meanwhile, @cogonnaya simply wrote: “Always on the move for a greater Nigeria.”
A few dissenting voices still appeared including critiques about his tenure in Anambra but they were drowned out by the wave of praise that followed his Strasbourg meetings. Even these criticisms served to underscore the unusual surge of positivity, given the heated tone of recent weeks.
Obi’s warm reception online demonstrates how quickly digital sentiment can shift when a political figure shifts the conversation back to ideas, diplomacy, and tangible action.
Whether this renewed applause marks a sustained turnaround remains to be seen, but for one day at least, a politician who had spent weeks under fire found himself receiving rare, near-unanimous praise.
For many Nigerians on X, the Strasbourg visit didn’t just hit the right notes, it reminded them of the version of Peter Obi they rallied behind in 2023.
