A former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said Nigeria’s garment and footwear industry in Aba, Abia State, can generate revenue comparable to the country’s oil earnings if properly managed and supported.

Obi stated this in a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, following his visit to Aba where he engaged with stakeholders of the Africa Democratic Congress.

The former governor said he visited the commercial hub on Saturday at the invitation of Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, commending him and his team for the reception.

He also praised Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, for efforts to develop Aba, popularly known as Enyimba City.

During the visit, Obi said he granted a one-hour interview on Magic FM, describing it as his first appearance on radio and television this year.

He also commended members of the Africa Democratic Congress for what he described as a productive engagement.

Highlighting the economic potential of Aba, he reiterated the need for Nigeria to transition from a consumption-driven economy to a production-based one.

“When I speak about moving the country from consumption to production, Aba remains one of the cities that will contribute immensely to that, as it remains a hub for garment and shoe production.

“Both products, garments and shoes, remain top and earn as much as we earn from oil for Bangladesh and Vietnam respectively and can do so for Nigeria if well managed and supported,” he said.

Obi, however, identified leadership as critical to unlocking the country’s economic potential, stressing the need for competence, compassion and commitment in governance.

“Our challenge remains competent leadership with capacity, compassion, and commitment to national development, as seen in other comparable nations,” he said.

He reaffirmed his belief in the country’s future, stating, “A new Nigeria is possible.”