The Labour Party has formally ratified Chibuzo Okereke as its presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, reaffirming its commitment to a governance agenda focused on the welfare of Nigerians.
Okereke’s ratification followed his emergence as the party’s presidential flagbearer through a consensus reached by party leaders, members and stakeholders during a meeting held in Abuja on May 30, 2026.
Speaking after the ratification, Okereke called on Nigerians to renew their confidence in the country, stressing that governance should take precedence over politics.
According to him, the primary responsibility of any government is to improve the lives of citizens through enhanced security, economic growth, social development and the restoration of public trust in institutions.
“Politics should not be the purpose of government; governance should be the purpose of government,” he said.
Okereke stated that leadership must focus on protecting citizens, creating opportunities for economic advancement, restoring dignity to the people and promoting sustainable development.
“We are convinced that when Nigerians prosper, Nigeria prospers. The people and governance must be placed ahead of politics,” he stated.
The Labour Party candidate expressed concern over what he described as a growing loss of confidence among Nigerians, noting that many citizens no longer believe in the country’s institutions or future prospects.
“Nigeria suffers not only from economic, security and institutional challenges but also from a crisis of confidence. Millions of Nigerians no longer believe in the promise of this country. Many no longer believe government can work, institutions can be trusted or merit can prevail,” he said.
He argued that successive administrations had focused more on the idea of the nation while paying insufficient attention to the welfare of the people.
“Our greatest asset is not oil, minerals, land or government infrastructure. Our greatest asset is our people. Government and democracy must deliver happiness, opportunity and dignity to Nigerians wherever they may be,” he added.
Okereke pledged that if elected, his administration would place citizens at the centre of governance and implement policies aimed at improving education, healthcare, security and economic productivity.
He maintained that national development depends on responsible leadership that empowers citizens and creates opportunities for them to succeed.
“When citizens are educated, healthy, secure, productive and empowered, the nation prospers. But when they are neglected, divided and excluded, the nation weakens,” he said.
The Labour Party candidate highlighted several challenges facing the country, including rising living costs, insecurity, unemployment, declining purchasing power, poor infrastructure, energy shortages, high maternal and infant mortality rates and the growing number of out-of-school children.
Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism that Nigeria could overcome its difficulties through innovative solutions, strategic investments and people-focused leadership.
“These are real problems, but they also present real opportunities for transformative solutions and sustainable development,” he said.
