By Ayomide Otitoju
In a significant move to bolster education and healthcare in Anambra State, Peter Obi has donated a total of ₦60 million to the University of the Niger (UNINIGER) and the School of Nursing Science, Iyienu, Ogidi, both institutions under the Anglican Diocese of the Niger.
During a visit to the University of the Niger’s take-off campus in Iyi-Enu, Umunya, Obi contributed ₦50 million, highlighting his commitment to supporting critical areas that drive development, health education, and poverty reduction. Additionally, he provided ₦10 million to the School of Nursing at Iyienu Mission Hospital, Ogidi, underlining the urgent need to address funding gaps in the healthcare sector.
Speaking on the donations, Obi emphasized that such financial support should be viewed as an investment in Nigeria’s future rather than mere expenditure. “I have consistently stressed that our contributions to health, education, and poverty reduction are investments in vital sectors that are key to driving our development,” he stated.
Obi raised concerns over the neglect faced by Nigeria’s health and education sectors, citing the impact of funding shortfalls, infrastructure challenges, and a shortage of qualified professionals. “Our health sector faces an acute shortage of doctors and nurses, falling well below the World Health Organization’s recommendations. Addressing this shortage requires more aggressive investments in training healthcare professionals across the country,” he remarked.
He expressed hope that his contributions would serve as a foundation for future development, emphasizing the importance of these sectors in building a prosperous nation. “I am deeply convinced that our sacrificial investments today will form the foundation of tomorrow’s development strides,” he added.
Obi concluded by expressing his appreciation to the leadership, staff, and students of both institutions for their unwavering commitment to uplifting Nigeria’s health and education sectors.
