Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has turned down a proposal to have a hall named after him at Shanahan College of Nursing Sciences, Nsukka.
Obi made a personal donation of N20 million to support the ongoing infrastructural development at the institution. During the presentation of the cheque, the school’s manager, Rev. Fr. Kelvin Caesar, informed attendees that the hall where the event was taking place was fully funded by Obi. As a gesture of appreciation, the institution planned to name the building in his honor.
However, Obi immediately declined, explaining that he was undertaking similar projects in over 50 institutions across Nigeria. He stated that it would not be appropriate for all these buildings to bear his name.
He noted that his dedication to improving education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation was driven by a desire to create a better future for Nigerian children. Obi also pointed out that philanthropy should not be done for personal recognition but should instead come from a sincere commitment to serving humanity.
“I do it to serve humanity. The reason God blesses us with resources is to use them to improve the lives of others and not for self-glorification,” Obi stated.
He further expressed his passion for supporting the medical field and other allied disciplines, recognizing their essential role in society. The cheque he presented was part of his commitment from the previous year, and he reassured the school that he would continue to support them. “I will return,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the Catholic Bishop of Nsukka, Most Rev. Godfrey Onah, Rev. Fr. Dr. Miletus Ossai praised Obi for his integrity and dedication to human capital development. Ossai described Obi’s efforts as vital for building a thriving society.
