…Says Govt should invest in human capital through education
.
BY SUZY CHUKWUECHEDOM / ONITSHA
.
Former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi yesterday, visited Tansian University, Umunya, doling out N10 million to the institution’s College of Nursing at Oba.
.
While donating the fund, Obi said that education remained the most effective tool for breaking the cycle of poverty, emphasising that nations that have made significant progress in the world did so by investing in human capital development through quality education.
.
Obi appealed to Nigerian leaders to make Education sector a priority, adding that education, healthcare and poverty alleviation are crucial pillars for Nigeria’s development.
.
Presenting the cheque, Obi commended Tansian University for its dedication to training healthcare professionals.
.
He noted that strengthening the healthcare sector begins with equipping institutions with the resources needed to produce skilled professionals who would in turn, serve society effectively.
.
Addressing the students, Obi urged them to remain focused and diligent, pointing out that, “a well-educated population is the foundation of a stable and prosperous society.”
.
In his welcome address, Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Eugene Nwadialor, expressed deep appreciation for Obi’s continuous support to the university.
.
Nwadialor recalled Obi’s ₦100 million donation to Tansian University when he was the Governor of Anambra State, describing him as a true champion of education.
.
“Your philanthropy has already had a profound impact on our institution, and it is a pleasure to have this opportunity to thank you in person.
.
“Through your generosity, you are not only meeting the immediate needs of the university but also investing in a brighter future for generations to come”, he said.
.
Nwadialor also used the occasion to highlight the plight of 38 nursing students who had been on Monsignor Johnbosco Akam’s scholarship before his demise, leaving them stranded and unable to continue their education.
.
He made a heartfelt appeal for Obi’s intervention, urging him to extend his generosity and provide support to enable them complete their studies.
.
The Vice-Chancellor further extended an invitation to Obi, requesting him to be the Special Guest of Honour at the university’s convocation ceremony slated for March 29, 2025.
.
He expressed confidence that Obi’s presence would enrich the event and inspire the students.
.
The event was attended by staff, students, and dignitaries who hailed Obi’s commitment to education and national development.
.
They commended him for his continued investment in schools across Nigeria, acknowledging that his support had transformed the lives of many young people.
.
The university community reaffirmed its gratitude to Okwute Ndigbo, as he is fondly called, for his dedication to academic excellence and social progress.
.
Obi was accompanied by his former commissioners: Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna, Prof. Patrick Obi, and Mr. Ndubisi Menakaya.
Comment here