Idemili North, Anambra State – Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has continued his legacy of support for education and healthcare in his home state by donating 50 million Naira to the University of the Niger (UNINIGER), Umunya.
The funds, designated for infrastructure development, were presented at the university’s take-off campus in Iyi-Enu.
Additionally, Obi provided 10 million Naira to the School of Nursing at Iyienu Mission Hospital, Ogidi, to further bolster healthcare education.
During his visit to both institutions on Thursday, Obi emphasised the importance of investments in health, education, and poverty reduction. “Financial support for these areas is not merely expenditure; it is an investment in our future,” he said.
Obi highlighted the significant challenges facing the healthcare sector, noting that Nigeria suffers from a severe shortage of healthcare professionals.
“Our current shortage of doctors and nurses is well below WHO standards,” he pointed out, calling for sustained investment in training healthcare professionals to bridge this gap.
Obi also addressed students directly, encouraging them to pursue both academic and moral excellence. “Your qualifications are strengthened not only by your knowledge but also by your character,” he advised.
The event drew high praise from community leaders and students alike. Anglican Bishop of the Niger, Bishop Owen Nwokolo, who oversees the educational institutions, commended Obi for his unwavering support for education and healthcare.
He recalled Obi’s impactful decision during his governorship to return schools to the Church, providing crucial support to ensure their success. Bishop Nwokolo noted that Iyienu School of Nursing, one of the first institutions Obi assisted, achieved accreditation due to his intervention and has continued to thrive with his ongoing support.
The Vice Chancellor of UNINIGER Prof. Chinedu Osita Nebo, echoed these sentiments, recognising Obi as a long-time champion of education.
Prof. Nebo credited Obi’s efforts with spurring other Eastern states to prioritise education, resulting in the region’s consistently high academic performance on a national level.
Students also expressed their gratitude, with medical student Ikenna Offor sharing his admiration for Obi. “I’ve heard so much about Mr Obi, but meeting him and seeing his commitment to our education firsthand was inspiring. The facilities we have here, from classrooms to the theatre complex, are largely thanks to his support. We are deeply grateful and hope he continues to visit us,” Offor said.
Peter Obi was accompanied by several notable figures, including Professor Stella Okunna, and was met with warm appreciation from students, faculty, and community leaders.
His continued commitment to Anambra State reflects his broader vision for sustainable development, health, and education, aligning with his advocacy for progress in Nigeria.
