Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has condemned reports that the Federal Government approved a $9 million contract for lobbying services in the United States, calling it a “national disgrace.”

In a statement on his verified X account on Friday, Obi criticized the expenditure as a reflection of Nigeria’s wasteful spending and poor leadership priorities. He noted that instead of investing in critical areas like healthcare, education, and poverty reduction, public funds are diverted to lobbying abroad.

Obi highlighted the nation’s stagnant Human Development Index (HDI) over the past 35 years, pointing out that countries with similar starting points, like China and Indonesia, have advanced significantly while Nigeria remains in the low HDI category. He emphasized that the $9 million could have been used to equip teaching hospitals across Nigeria, improving life expectancy and maternal health.

“The funds are available; what is lacking are prioritization, discipline, and effective leadership,” Obi said.