Obi thanks supporters, directs birthday gifts to institutions and projects
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
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“Obi shared anecdotes from his time as Anambra Governor, recounting how he redirected millions of naira intended for birthday gifts or celebrations into projects that benefitted communities.
“One institution offered to build me a house in my village, costing ₦120 million. I asked them to, instead, build classrooms in Agulu, Ekwulobia, and Abatete. They obliged – and the impact was far-reaching.”
“This has been my consistent approach – using birthdays to champion educational advancement, support for the underprivileged, and strengthen state-serving institutions.
“The level of poverty and suffering in Nigeria makes celebration difficult. This is why I have once again requested that all who wish to celebrate me should channel their resources toward helping the poor or supporting our struggling health and educational institutions” – Obi.
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Peter Obi has expressed gratitude to his supporters across Nigeria and beyond for the overwhelming show of love and goodwill to him on his 64th birthday on July 19 and directed gifts meant for him should be given to the poor and the needy as well as channelled into institutions and projects that benefit humanity.
The celebration of his birthday on Saturday was marked with community service and solidarity gatherings in various parts of the world, especially by members of the Obidient Movement and other well-wishers.
Obi on Sunday issued a statement from Rome, reiterating his lifelong philosophy of shunning extravagant personal celebrations in favour of causes that benefit the underprivileged and strengthen public institutions.
“I sincerely thank everyone for the outpouring of goodwill and birthday wishes I received worldwide. I remain deeply grateful to all who marked the day in one way or another – especially Nigerian youths, the Obidient family, and members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul,” he wrote.
Obi shared anecdotes from his time as Anambra Governor, recounting how he redirected millions of naira intended for birthday gifts or celebrations into projects that benefitted communities.
“One institution offered to build me a house in my village, costing ₦120 million. I asked them to, instead, build classrooms in Agulu, Ekwulobia, and Abatete. They obliged – and the impact was far-reaching.”
He also narrated how a planned ₦20 million birthday party was converted to 200 desktop computers donated to schools across Anambra.
Another celebration was transformed into buses distributed to institutions, including the Old Rangers Association.
“This has been my consistent approach – using birthdays to champion educational advancement, support for the underprivileged, and strengthen state-serving institutions.
“The level of poverty and suffering in Nigeria makes celebration difficult. This is why I have once again requested that all who wish to celebrate me should channel their resources toward helping the poor or supporting our struggling health and educational institutions.
“On my part, I have chosen this day to renew my personal commitment to continue supporting the institutions of state in the best way I can, especially those that directly serve the people.”
Obi said his birthday coincided with a spiritual moment during his visit to the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs in Rome, where he offered special prayers for Nigeria.
“I especially prayed for our beloved country – that God may touch the hearts of our leaders, and awaken in them the realization that public funds are meant for the public good.
“May we all find strength and grace to keep striving for a more just, compassionate, and equitable society.”
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