Former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party’s 2023 Presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Thursday, donated N60 million to the University on the Niger (UNINIGER) as part of his ongoing efforts to foster development, improve healthcare, and reduce poverty.
Obi made the donation during a visit to the university’s take-off campus in Umunya, where he contributed N50 million for general campus development. Additionally, he allocated N10 million to the School of Nursing at Iyi-Enu Mission Hospital, Ogidi, to support infrastructure improvements.
Speaking at the event, Obi emphasized that investing in health, education, and poverty reduction is not merely an expense but a critical investment in sustainable development. He highlighted the severe neglect of these sectors and the urgent need for increased attention, particularly in healthcare, which faces challenges such as inadequate funding, infrastructure gaps, and a shortage of healthcare professionals. Obi stressed the importance of aggressively investing in the training of doctors and nurses to meet the World Health Organization’s recommendations.
Encouraging the students at the event, Obi urged them to stay focused on both their academic studies and moral development, asserting that the value of their education is intertwined with their character and integrity.
In gratitude, the Anglican Bishop of the Niger, Most Rev. Owen Nwokolo, reflected on Obi’s legacy in revitalizing education in the state, particularly his return of schools to the Church and subsequent support. He also acknowledged Obi’s ongoing support for institutions like the Iyienu School of Nursing, which benefitted from his interventions during his tenure as governor, enabling the institution to gain accreditation.
The Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, praised Obi’s unwavering commitment to education, noting that his efforts as governor helped elevate the South East’s educational standards, placing the region among the top-performing areas in the country.
Medical student Ikenna Offor also expressed his excitement at the event, remarking on the generosity of Obi, whom he had long admired.
Obi’s donation underscores his continued focus on investing in key sectors that drive national development and empower future generations.