Peter Obi vs. President Tinubu: Who’s Making a Bigger Impact in Nigeria?

Since the 2023 presidential election, two leaders have been in the spotlight in Nigeria, Peter Obi, the Labour Party candidate, and President Tinubu, the current president of Nigeria.

Both have captured the attention of Nigerians for different reasons. But as the country faces economic, social, and political challenges, many are asking: Who is making a bigger impact in Nigeria?

Peter Obi: A Philanthropist Making a Difference

Even though Peter Obi is not in office, he continues to play an important role in Nigeria’s development. Known for his business skills and focus on helping local communities, Obi has used his resources to improve education, healthcare, and support for the most vulnerable Nigerians.

Donations and Support

Obi’s most significant work has been his charitable donations. In the first half of 2025, he donated over ₦576 million to various causes, with a large focus on education and healthcare.

His most significant donations include ₦100 million to IHM Health System in Anambra State and ₦50 million to Christ the King College in Onitsha.

He also donated ₦30 million to Paul University in Awka, and many other schools, hospitals, and community centres across the country benefited from his support.

Obi’s donations have focused heavily on the South East, his home region, but he has also supported other regions like the North West and South South.

His interventions show his dedication to improving basic services and helping those who need it most, including internally displaced persons (IDPs) and those affected by violence.

Advocacy and Voice for the People

Apart from his donations, Obi has used his platform to speak out on issues like fiscal responsibility, education, and transparency.

He is often seen as someone who understands the struggles of ordinary Nigerians and speaks for their interests.

Although he is no longer a presidential candidate, his ideas continue to inspire many, especially young people who are eager for change.

President Bola Tinubu: Leading Nigeria Through Tough Times

Since becoming president in May 2023, Bola Tinubu has faced numerous challenges.

From tackling the economy to managing national security, Tinubu’s administration has had to make tough decisions that have affected millions of Nigerians.

His leadership has been marked by bold moves, including the controversial removal of the fuel subsidy.

Economic Reforms and the Fuel Subsidy Removal

One of Tinubu’s first major actions as president was to remove the fuel subsidy. This move was aimed at saving the government money and redirecting funds to other areas, like infrastructure and social services.

However, the decision has faced strong criticism from many Nigerians, as fuel prices have risen, making it harder for people to afford basic necessities.

The removal of the fuel subsidy is a significant part of Tinubu’s strategy to reform Nigeria’s economy, but its immediate effects have been tough for many Nigerians to handle.

Supporters of the president argue that these changes are necessary for Nigeria’s long-term growth, while critics say the government should have done more to cushion the effects on ordinary people.

Addressing National Security

Another challenge President Tinubu has faced is national security. Nigeria has struggled with various forms of insecurity, including banditry, insurgency, and kidnapping.

Tinubu’s administration has worked to address these issues by reshaping the country’s security forces and implementing new strategies.

However, the situation remains dire in many regions, and the president’s efforts have yet to bring about a clear resolution.

Despite these challenges, Tinubu has continued to push for large infrastructure projects, such as new roads, bridges, and airports, which are meant to boost the country’s economy and improve transportation. His leadership also includes efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s position on the global stage by improving international relations with key allies.

Comparing Their Impact

While both Peter Obi and President Tinubu are influential figures, their impact on Nigeria is different in many ways.

Obi’s Grassroots Focus vs. Tinubu’s National Leadership

Peter Obi is known for his work on the ground, helping communities through donations and advocacy. His donations to schools, hospitals, and local organisations have made a direct difference in the lives of many Nigerians.

Obi’s focus is on improving the quality of life for ordinary people, particularly in areas like education and healthcare. However, his ability to implement nationwide policies is limited, as he is not in a position of formal political power.

President Tinubu, on the other hand, has the power to make decisions that affect the entire country. His policies and actions as president, such as the fuel subsidy removal and security reforms, are designed to address Nigeria’s long-term challenges.

However, these decisions have not been easy for many Nigerians, especially those who are struggling with rising living costs and insecurity.

Obi’s Popularity vs. Tinubu’s Authority

Peter Obi enjoys strong popularity, especially among younger Nigerians and those frustrated with the country’s traditional political system.

His message of accountability, transparency, and a focus on education and healthcare resonates with many, but his ability to make systemic changes is still limited without being in office.

President Tinubu, as the country’s president, has authority over national matters, but his leadership is being tested by the difficult circumstances Nigeria is facing.

His decisions have had far-reaching consequences, and while some people support his policies, others believe that the government needs to do more to ease the burdens on Nigerians.

Who Is Making a Bigger Impact?

The answer to this question largely depends on what Nigerians value more, short-term improvements or long-term change.

Peter Obi’s efforts, particularly in terms of philanthropy and grassroots development, have had an immediate and visible impact on many Nigerians. His donations have directly helped schools, hospitals, and vulnerable communities, and his advocacy for transparency and education continues to inspire millions.

President Tinubu’s influence, however, is more national in scope. His administration is focused on addressing Nigeria’s larger economic and security challenges. While these reforms may take time to show results, they have the potential to transform the country in the long run.

In the end, both leaders are making a difference in their own ways. Obi’s philanthropic work is changing lives at the community level, while Tinubu’s governance is shaping the country’s future on a national scale. The real question is whether the long-term reforms under Tinubu’s leadership will result in tangible benefits for all Nigerians in the future.