Peter Obi joins 9/11 memorial in New York after meetings in Germany, UK, US
Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, was one of the dignitaries, including all living past Presidents of the United States of America (USA) and incumbent Vice President, J.D Vance, who celebrated the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorists’ attack on the World Trade Center in New York.
President Donald Trump celebrated the 9/11 memorial at the Pentagon, in Virginia, while all across the US different programs were held to remember those who lost their lives during the attacks, especially the heroic fire fighters who died as the twin towers were struck by two airplanes, as well as those who were injured by the dastardly attacks.
In a post on his X platform, Mr. Obi, former Governor of Anambra State, who went from his obstructed visit to Benue State, a visit to Plateau State and a visit to Europe (first to Germany and then to the United Kingdom), before arriving in New York, said he joined in the prayers and service of remembrance for the dead and injured in the city that was worst hit by the terror attacks.
He said: “Earlier today (Friday), while in New York, I joined in prayers and a service of remembrance to honour the innocent lives lost on September 11, 2001.
“Twenty-five years later, the pain of that tragic day remains deeply felt by the families who lost loved ones and by a nation that has continued to carry their memory.
“We also honour the extraordinary courage of the firefighters, police officers, first responders, and ordinary citizens who ran towards danger to save others. Their selflessness remains a powerful reminder of the courage and goodness that humanity is capable of, even in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
“Beyond nationality, race, religion, or political differences, there is a fundamental truth that binds us all: human life is sacred, and our shared humanity must unite us, especially in our darkest moments.
“To every family still carrying the pain and memory of a loved one lost that day, and to the American people, I extend my heartfelt sympathy, prayers, and solidarity.
“May the souls of all those who lost their lives continue to rest in peace. May their memory inspire us to work towards a world where peace, compassion, justice, and respect for human life prevail over hatred and terror.
“We remember. We honour. We will never forget,” he said.
Mr. Obi said that after the 9/11 memorial program in New York, he continued with his “high level meetings,” stressing that “We remain prayerful to God Almighty for a peaceful world.”
In his earlier tweet, he had noted that his trips to Germany and the United Kingdom were essentially to participate “in a series of high-level meetings addressing issues of fundamental importance to Nigeria’s future.
“Our conversations addressed democracy and electoral integrity, the escalating challenge of poverty, education, corruption, healthcare, and, above all, practical ways to improve the lives and preserve the dignity of our people.”
He said he was “especially encouraged by the sincere readiness of our international partners to support Nigeria, particularly in the critically important area of education. I have consistently emphasised that education is the most valuable investment we can make in our people, because no nation can create a prosperous and sustainable future without developing the knowledge, skills, and capabilities of its citizens.”
He also pointed out that “We must intentionally transition Nigeria from consumption to production, from dependence to productivity, from wasteful practices to responsible resource management, and from division to a common national purpose.
“Together, we can create a Nigeria in which every child receives a quality education, democracy genuinely embodies the people’s will, healthcare is within reach, public resources are administered responsibly, and every Nigerian enjoys a fair chance to lead a dignified and productive life.”
