Our Reporter, Abuja
Public policy expert and former Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Dr. Sam Amadi, on Saturday defended leading African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential aspirant, Peter Obi, describing him as well informed on economic and governance issues.
In a post on X, Amadi argued that academic degree classifications should not be used as a measure of leadership competence, insisting that continuous learning, practical exposure and intellectual curiosity matter more in public leadership.
He said critics seeking to diminish Obi on the basis of his degree background misunderstood the qualities required for transformative leadership.
“I have read those who do not know the qualities required of transformative leadership try to put Peter Obi down on the basis of degree type,” Amadi wrote.
“These people do not know that real education starts after university.”
Amadi said Obi possesses deeper insight into economic management and social transformation than many highly credentialed academics.
“Peter Obi is very insightful, better than many first class people I know,” he wrote, adding that possessing a first-class degree in economics does not automatically translate into the capacity to run an economy.
According to him, practical knowledge and continuous study often count more than formal academic distinctions.
“Peter Obi is a student of leadership and governance. He knows more about economic and social transformation than many first class and doctorate degree graduates because he reads and listens to those who know,” he said.
Amadi, who also referred to his own academic background, said knowledge is built through lifelong learning rather than certificates.
“I am better informed not because of my doctorate degree but because of consistent efforts to learn and learn,” he stated.
He added that Obi has a stronger grasp of Nigeria’s economic and social challenges than many degree holders.
“Today, Peter Obi has better knowledge of Nigeria’s economic and social crises and commitment to transforming the Nigerian condition than many first class and doctorate graduates,” he said.
Amadi concluded with a strong endorsement of the former Anambra State governor, declaring: “Peter Obi is the best.”
