Peter Obi Donates N10m To Anambra Hospital To Mark 65th Birthday

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general elections, Peter Obi, on Sunday, marked his 65th birthday by donating N10 million to St. Raphael's Hospital, Umueri, in Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State, reaffirming his belief that birthdays should be dedicated to service rather than personal celebration.

Obi announced the donation in a personally signed statement released on Sunday and titled "Reflections on My 65th Birthday," saying he deliberately chose to commemorate the milestone by supporting healthcare instead of holding elaborate festivities.

The former Anambra governor said he began the day with a Mass of Thanksgiving in Onitsha before proceeding to the rural hospital, where he made the donation to strengthen the facility's delivery of quality healthcare.

According to him, Nigeria's socio-economic realities demand sober reflection rather than extravagant celebrations, as millions of citizens continue to grapple with poverty, unemployment, poor healthcare and limited opportunities.

“Our nation is blessed with enormous human and natural resources, yet millions of our people continue to struggle with challenges that demand our collective attention. We cannot afford to celebrate ourselves excessively while many around us are burdened by poverty, ill health, unemployment, and limited opportunities," Obi said.

He noted that birthdays should serve as moments of gratitude to God, reflection and renewed commitment to improving the lives of others.

The former governor explained that his philosophy of redirecting resources meant for gifts and ceremonies to humanitarian causes had over the years resulted in the construction of schools, hostel blocks and support for educational institutions.

“The greatest honour anyone can receive is not found in gifts, ceremonies, or public admiration, but in knowing that one's life has contributed, however modestly, to making another person's life better," he stated.

Obi said his visit to St. Raphael's Hospital reinforced his conviction that leadership is about compassion, particularly for vulnerable people who cannot afford quality healthcare.

“As I was conducted around the hospital and saw patients in their moments of vulnerability, I was reminded again of our shared humanity. Some of those receiving care may not even have the financial means to settle their hospital bills, yet they deserve compassion, dignity, and access to quality healthcare. Their condition was a reminder that leadership, in its truest form, is about caring for people, especially those who cannot repay our kindness,” he said.

Describing hospitals and schools as the bedrock of national development, Obi stressed that investments in healthcare and education represent investments in humanity and the country's future.

He also disclosed plans to spend the remainder of the month visiting schools and hospitals, where he would make modest donations as part of his birthday commemoration.

“I shall dedicate the end of the month to visiting one school or hospital as my modest way of commemorating my birthday. Rather than a celebration centred on me, I desire a celebration that places humanity at the centre," he said.

Obi concluded by praying for God's continued wisdom and strength to serve while calling for a united, inclusive and compassionate Nigeria where leadership is measured by its positive impact on the lives of citizens.