Peter Obi's Continued Support for Education and Healthcare in Nigeria
Peter Obi, the flagbearer of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, has consistently shown his commitment to education and healthcare by making significant donations to various institutions across Nigeria. His recent efforts have focused on supporting schools and universities that play a crucial role in shaping the future of the country.
During a visit to Bauchi state on Friday, August 8, Obi donated N15 million to two educational institutions: Malikiya College of Nursing Sciences and Intisharu Taufizul Quranic School. The donation was part of his ongoing initiative to improve the quality of education and healthcare in Nigeria. Specifically, he allocated N10 million to Malikiya College of Nursing Sciences and N5 million to the Quranic School. This gesture highlights his belief in the importance of both formal and religious education in building a stronger society.
Obi emphasized the critical role that nurses play in Nigeria’s health sector during his speech at Malikiya College of Nursing Sciences. He stated that nurses are essential to the nation’s success, as their work directly impacts public health. "The nurse is important. The nurse knows the patient, the nurse owns the patient, the nurse is everything," he said. This sentiment reflects his deep understanding of the challenges faced by healthcare professionals and his determination to support them.
In addition to his recent contributions to Bauchi, Obi has also made significant donations to other educational institutions. Weeks before his visit to Bauchi, he donated N15 million to the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). This donation aimed to upgrade the laboratory facilities and increase the department’s capacity for graduations and inductions as part of its re-accreditation process. Obi expressed concern over the deteriorating condition of many health institutions in the country and pledged to support their improvement.
His commitment to education extends beyond nursing and dentistry. Obi has visited and supported approximately 70 nursing schools annually as part of his broader efforts to strengthen the healthcare sector. The proprietors of the schools he recently supported, Aminu Danmaliki and Alh Usman Abubakar, praised his generosity and assured that the funds would be used effectively for the benefit of the institutions.
Expanding Educational Support Across Nigeria
Obi’s dedication to education is not limited to Bauchi or UNN. In another instance, he donated N5 million and a bus to the Grimard School of Nursing Science in Kogi state. This contribution fulfilled a promise he made during a previous visit in July 2024. The former governor of Anambra state shared this development on his social media platform, highlighting his ongoing engagement with educational institutions.
Over the past few weeks, Obi has made several donations totaling over N200 million to support education in different parts of Nigeria. These contributions have been spread across various regions, with the South East receiving the highest amount. His actions reflect a strategic approach to addressing the needs of educational institutions while also promoting national development.
Key Contributions by Region
- South East: Highest amount donated
- Bauchi State: N15 million to Malikiya College and Intisharu Taufizul Quranic School
- Nsukka (UNN): N15 million to the Faculty of Dentistry
- Kogi State: N5 million and a bus to Grimard School of Nursing Science
Obi’s consistent support for education and healthcare underscores his vision for a more developed and equitable Nigeria. Through these donations, he aims to create a lasting impact on the lives of students, educators, and healthcare professionals across the country. His efforts serve as a reminder of the importance of investing in education and infrastructure to build a stronger future for all Nigerians.