On his 64th birthday, former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate, Peter Obi, reiterated his stance against personal extravagance and the misuse of public resources, calling on Nigerian leaders to redirect wealth toward public service.
Marking the occasion on Sunday, July 20, Obi issued a heartfelt message urging supporters and well-wishers to channel their goodwill into impactful social causes rather than celebratory spending.
“As I turned 64 years old yesterday, I must confess that the current state of our nation makes the idea of personal merriment even more difficult to contemplate,” he said. “The scale of suffering and deprivation among our people weighs heavily on the conscience.”
He urged that rather than celebrating him, people should support those in need or invest in struggling sectors like education and health.
“This is why I have once again requested that all those who wish to celebrate me should instead channel their resources towards helping the poor or supporting our struggling health and educational institutions.”
Obi, who is widely known for his frugal lifestyle and dedication to public service, shared several past examples of how he declined lavish gestures in favor of more meaningful societal contributions.
“One institution generously offered to build a house for me in the village. When I asked for the estimated cost, they said it would be ₦120 million. I humbly requested that the funds be redirected to build classrooms in three educational institutions at Agulu, Ekwulobia, and Abatete. They obliged—and the impact was far-reaching.”
Another instance involved a group planning to spend ₦20 million on a party in his honor. Instead, Obi suggested they buy computers for schools.
“Their eventual donation of 200 desktops was distributed to schools across the state, enhancing learning for many students.”
Similarly, he recounted how an organisation shifted its original plan of celebrating him by donating buses instead—benefitting institutions and even the legendary Old Rangers Association.
As he reflected on Nigeria’s current state, Obi expressed his hopes for a more equitable society and leadership that prioritizes the common good.
“I especially prayed for our beloved country, Nigeria, that God may touch the hearts of our leaders, and awaken in them the realisation that public funds are meant for the public good. May we all find strength and grace to keep striving for a more just, compassionate, and equitable society.”
