Former Anambra State Governor and 2027 presidential candidate Peter Obi has paid tribute to the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States, calling for greater commitment to peace, compassion and respect for human life.

Obi made the statement on Saturday in a post on X after attending a prayer and remembrance service in New York to mark the 25th anniversary of the attacks.

Nearly 3,000 people were killed on September 11, 2001, after hijacked passenger planes were crashed into the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon in Virginia. Another aircraft crashed in Pennsylvania.

Obi said the impact of the attacks continued to be felt by families who lost loved ones and by the wider American public.

“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,” he said.

He also honoured firefighters, police officers, first responders and civilians who risked their lives to rescue others during the attacks, describing their actions as a reminder of human courage and selflessness.

Obi said the tragedy underscored the importance of recognising the value of human life regardless of nationality, race, religion or political differences. He expressed sympathy and solidarity with families still mourning those killed and with the American people.

“May their memory inspire us to work towards a world where peace, compassion, justice, and respect for human life prevail over hatred and terror,” Obi said.

He concluded his message by urging continued prayers for peace and saying the victims would not be forgotten. Obi added that he proceeded with other meetings in New York after the remembrance service.