By Frank Ulom
Mr Peter Obi, the 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has paid a crucial visit to the Catholic Maternity Hospital, Moniaya, Ogoja, Cross River State.
Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, also donated N10 million to help the hospital meet its needs.
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who made the personal donation during a visit to the hospital, said he donated because “this decades-old facility remains virtually the only maternity hospital serving the entire Ogoja area.”
According to him, “Nigeria still ranks among the countries with the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in the world, despite having overtaken countries such as China and India, whose populations are several times larger than ours. This is not just a statistic; it represents mothers, babies, and families whose lives are forever changed by preventable tragedies.”
He added, “Despite the Catholic Maternity Hospital, Moniaya, Ogoja’s age and the enormous responsibility it bears, it continues to provide care for thousands of women and newborns with limited resources. The hospital also operates a Tuberculosis and Leprosy Centre, providing vital healthcare services that are becoming increasingly rare.”
“To support their commendable work, I make a token donation of N10 million and assure them of my continued partnership. I urge governments at all levels, the private sector, and well-meaning Nigerians to support institutions like this, run by voluntary and faith-based organisations. Investing in healthcare and education is investing in our future.”
Established in 1946 before Nigeria gained independence, the secondary health facility has served both Nigerians and foreigners. To date, the hospital has been serving in the capacity of obstetrics/gynaecology, paediatrics, and general health issues.