The Labour Party's presidential candidate for 2023, Peter Obi, has urged Nigerian elites and political figures to intentionally support local businesses, highlighting the difficulties in establishing and maintaining successful enterprises within the country.
Obi mentioned that he took a flight with Air Peace from Lagos to London on Sunday morning and has flown with the airline nearly a dozen times, praising its reliability and professionalism.
"I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the management and staff of Air Peace for their professionalism, consistency, and competence on this route," he shared on his X platform.
The former governor of Anambra State emphasized the need to support Nigerian enterprises, particularly in challenging sectors such as transportation, where competition and operational expenses are considerable.
"Operating any business in our tough environment is challenging, especially in capital-intensive areas like air and land transportation," he noted.
He cautioned against the harassment or intimidation of local companies, stressing that they should be supported rather than hindered.
"Nigerian businesses require our support and patronage, not harassment or undue intimidation.
Promoting local enterprises, particularly those that generate significant employment, is essential for job creation, economic expansion, and sustainable national development," Obi stated.
His comments arise amid an ongoing dispute involving Air Peace and accusations of unfair treatment from aviation regulators and competitors.