The former Governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi, has disclosed how he redirected over N140 million birthday gifts to building classrooms, purchasing desktop computers and buses for schools in the state.
Mr Obi disclosed this while expressing his heartfelt appreciation to well-wishers who marked his birthday, especially the Obidient family and the members of the Society of St. Vincent De Paul, renowned for their apostolate to the poor.
In a post on his X handle on Sunday, the Business Mogul cum Politician said while he deeply appreciates the gestures of celebration, he does not personally celebrate birthdays, therefore, those wishing to celebrate him should channel it to the poor.
“I recall vividly when I turned 50, during my time as Governor. Many institutions and individuals approached me with elaborate plans for the occasion. One institution generously offered to build a house for me in the village.
“When I asked for the estimated cost, they said it would be N120 million. I humbly requested that the funds be redirected to build classrooms in three educational institutions at Agulu, Ekwulobia and Abatete. They obliged—and the impact was far-reaching.
“Another group had budgeted N20 million for a lavish party. I graciously asked them to consider using the funds to purchase desktop computers for schools. Their eventual donation of 200 desktops was distributed to schools across the state, enhancing learning for many students.
“In a similar spirit of redirection, another organisation—whose intention had originally been to celebrate me—ended up donating buses, which we distributed to institutions in need, including one that went to the legendary Old Rangers Association.
“This has been my consistent approach over the years. On each birthday, I use the opportunity to redirect goodwill towards causes that uplift others,” Obi reflected.
He stated that as he turned 64 years old yesterday, the current state of the nation makes the idea of personal merriment even more difficult to contemplate. Adding that the scale of suffering and deprivation among the people weighs heavily on his conscience.
“This is why I have once again requested that all those who wish to celebrate me should instead channel their resources towards helping the poor or supporting our struggling health and educational institutions,” the former governor said.
He said, he has chosen this day to renew his personal commitment to continue to support the institutions of the state in the best way possible, especially those that directly serve the people.
“Providentially, I was in Rome, at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs, and my birthday coincided with this visit. I used this sacred opportunity, as I always do when I am in Nigeria, to remember you all in prayer.
“I especially prayed for our beloved country, Nigeria—that God may touch the hearts of our leaders, and awaken in them the realisation 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,” he added.
