By Ovat Abeng
The Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Mr. Peter Obi, has donated seventy million naira to three higher Institutions in Anambra State.
It was gathered that the former governor of the state, donated N50 million to Shanahan University Onitsha during its official opening ceremony, N10 million to Holy Rosary Specialist Hospital/Maternity Onitsha and also N10 million to the College of Nursing, Saint Charles Borromeo Specialist Hospital Onitsha respectively.
Speaking at the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity Onitsha, on Monday, shortly after the donations, Obi emphasized the importance of knowledge over oil, stating that “the currency for the future is knowledge, not oil”.
He highlighted that both the Catholic and Anglican Churches have established some of the best educational institutions in the world. He explained his decision to support humanity through the Church, confident that they make judicious use of resources.
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He also called on the institutions to continue admitting students without regard to denomination, tribe, or nationality. “Like Gandhi, I encourage the brotherhood of all men,” Obi said while revealing that the next port of call will be the University on the Niger and the School of Midwifery at Iyienu.
According to him, “This is the future. What is great is those who think about tomorrow.”
“I am not doing the donations to canvass for vote. I am not desperate to be the President of Nigeria. This is my little effort to contribute for a better Nigeria.
This donation reflects my commitment to education and development of Nigeria.
Obi, acknowledged the significant role of the church in establishing top-notch educational institutions worldwide.
The Archbishop of Onitsha, Valerian Okeke, expressed gratitude to Obi, while Vice Chancellor Obi Oguejiofor announced free internet facilities from now until January and free lunch for students on the occasion.
Oguejiofor noted that every Nigerian university is great, but Shanahan University aims to be even greater.
He thanked the Archbishop for his vision and divine inspiration in establishing the university.
Currently, the university has around 200 students and plans to build a 1,500-capacity auditorium.
Oguejiofor urged Reverend Fathers to sponsor at least one student’s scholarship in the university.