Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has stirred national conversation by declaring that some Nigerian internet fr@udsters, popularly known as Yahoo boys, are “geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation.” Speaking at the Golden Health Conference in Onitsha, Anambra State, on Saturday, Obi said their exceptional creativity, if properly guided, could drive innovation and national development.
“Some of our so-called Yahoo boys are geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation. Their creativity and courage, if properly guided, can drive innovation and national development,” Obi said while addressing participants at the conference themed “Money Beyond Wealth.”
The former Anambra governor, who cut short his UK trip to attend the event, emphasized that the country must tackle the growing greed for material wealth that has eroded moral values. “Money is necessary, but it is only a small part of real wealth,” he noted. “True wealth is built on integrity, character, and purpose. It uplifts society, promotes education, reduces poverty, and creates opportunities for others.”
Obi also condemned Nigeria’s obsession with quick riches, warning that the reckless pursuit of wealth has severely weakened the nation’s moral foundation. “Leadership must lead by example. A nation that rewards dishonesty cannot build integrity,” he said.
He urged Nigerian youths to rediscover the dignity of labour, stressing that national development comes from “men and women who think, work, and build,” not from shortcuts. He further called for fairness, justice, and collective effort across ethnic and religious lines, reminding Nigerians that “no religion or tribe buys bread cheaper than another.”
Obi concluded by commending Bishop Owen Nwokolo of the Diocese on the Niger and the event organizers for promoting value-based leadership among young Nigerians. His message, which has since gone viral, continues to spark debate about rehabilitation, innovation, and the creative potential of Nigeria’s youth.
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