At 65, Peter Obi urges service over celebration, donates ₦10m to rural hospital

The Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians to prioritise improving the lives of others over extravagant celebrations of personal milestones.

Obi made the call in a statement issued on Sunday to mark his 65th birthday, describing the occasion as a time for thanksgiving, reflection and renewed commitment to serving God and humanity.

He said Nigeria’s current socio-economic realities, marked by poverty, unemployment, insecurity and inadequate access to quality healthcare and education, demanded compassion and selfless service rather than lavish personal celebrations.

According to him, despite the nation’s abundant human and natural resources, millions of Nigerians continue to face hardship, making it imperative for citizens to focus on uplifting one another.

“The greatest celebration of life is not what we receive from others, but the lives we are able to touch positively,” Obi said.

The former governor of Anambra said his philosophy had consistently guided his personal and public life, adding that he had often encouraged well-wishers to redirect resources meant for birthday gifts and elaborate ceremonies to projects with lasting public benefits.

He said the approach had led to the construction of schools, hostel blocks, educational support programmes and other community development projects that continue to benefit the less privileged.

As part of activities marking his birthday, Obi attended a Thanksgiving Mass in Onitsha before visiting St. Raphael’s Hospital in Umueri, Anambra East Local Government Area, where he donated ₦10 million to support healthcare services at the rural facility.

He said his interaction with patients during the visit reinforced the need for compassionate leadership and greater investment in the nation’s health sector.

According to him, many Nigerians are unable to afford medical treatment but still deserve dignity, compassion and access to quality healthcare.

“True leadership is demonstrated by caring for people, especially those who are unable to repay acts of kindness,” he said.

Obi also reaffirmed that healthcare and education remain critical sectors for national development, describing investments in both as enduring contributions to humanity and Nigeria’s future.