By Sunny A. David, Awka
Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party Presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has expressed heartfelt appreciation to his supporters for their overwhelming goodwill messages and gestures as he celebrated his 64th birthday.
In a statement issued from Rome and made available to our correspondent in Awka, Obi thanked Nigerians especially the youth, the Obidient movement, and members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul for choosing to celebrate him by serving those in need.
“I sincerely thank everyone for the global outpouring of goodwill and birthday wishes,” he said. “I am especially grateful to those who chose to mark the occasion by uplifting others.”
Obi, who has consistently discouraged lavish celebrations of his birthday, reiterated his belief in redirecting such resources toward social good. He recalled how, during his time as Governor, he declined extravagant birthday tributes and instead encouraged projects that directly benefitted the public.
“One organization offered to build me a house worth ₦120 million in my village. I persuaded them instead to construct classroom blocks in Agulu, Ekwulobia, and Abatete and they did,” Obi revealed.
In another instance, he redirected ₦20 million earmarked for a birthday party into purchasing 200 desktop computers for schools. He also facilitated the donation of buses to institutions such as the Old Rangers Association.
This pattern of philanthropy, Obi emphasized, aligns with his enduring principle of using personal goodwill to support education, empower the poor, and strengthen public institutions.
Commenting on the state of the nation, Obi said the high levels of poverty and hardship in Nigeria make personal celebrations feel inappropriate. “This is why I always ask well wishers to use any funds meant for celebrating me to support the needy, particularly in education and healthcare.”
He further reaffirmed his personal commitment to national development, pledging to continue contributing to public institutions and initiatives that serve the common good.
“On this day, I renew my dedication to supporting Nigeria in every way I can,” he stated.
Obi, who spent his birthday in Rome at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs, said he used the opportunity to pray for Nigeria and its people. “I prayed that God would touch the hearts of our leaders and help them realize that public resources are meant to serve the public.”
He concluded by encouraging Nigerians to remain committed to building a more compassionate and equitable society. “May we all find the strength and grace to keep striving for a better Nigeria,” he said.
