The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Mr Peter Obi, has donated N20 million to two Colleges of Nursing Sciences in Imo and Anambra states—Holy Rosary College of Nursing, Ogbe, in Ahiara Catholic Diocese, Mbaise, and the College of Nursing Sciences, Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Ihiala.

During his visit to both institutions on Friday, the former Governor of Anambra State presented a cheque of N10 million to each college. At the Holy Rosary College of Nursing, he handed over the cheque to the Bishop of Ahiara Diocese, Most Rev Simeon Nwobi, at the construction site of the college. Similarly, at Our Lady of Lourdes, Ihiala, he presented the donation to the Students’ Union Government (SUG) President, Miss Anigbo Chisom Mary, in the presence of hundreds of excited students.

In his remarks, Obi underscored the significance of his donation, stressing that healthcare and education are critical to national development and the well-being of citizens. Commending the Catholic Diocese of Ahiara for embarking on the college of nursing project, he described it as a vital contribution to securing a better future for Nigeria. “My Lords, what you are doing is a great service to our country. This donation is not a favour to you, but a recognition of your efforts in nation-building. I will always support this project because it is about securing a better future for our country”, Obi said.

Obi further stated that the government must prioritise quality education, including the prompt payment of teachers’ salaries. He emphasised the need for free and accessible education at the primary and secondary levels, both in public and private schools. He assured that he would continue to support the colleges of nursing to ensure they become centres of excellence in training healthcare professionals who will contribute to national development.

Expressing his gratitude, Bishop Nwobi commended Obi for his relentless commitment to building a better Nigeria. “We are deeply grateful for this generous donation,” the bishop said. “You have been doing so much for our country, and we continue to pray for God’s will to be done in your life.” He also confirmed that the college would officially commence operations next year and invited Obi to attend the opening ceremony.

Speaking on the sidelines, Very Rev. Fr Okoro revealed that the college’s construction began in late 2021 and, in addition to nursing and midwifery, would also offer courses in pharmacy, cardiology, and laboratory sciences.

At Our Lady of Lourdes, Ihiala, SUG President Miss Anigbo Chisom Mary, speaking on behalf of her fellow students, expressed gratitude to Obi for his unwavering support. “You have always shown us compassion and care,” she said. “You are our role model, and we will not let you down.”