Peter Obi reflects on service as he marks 65th birthday *Donates ₦10 Million to rural hospital

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By Madu Obi

Former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate of Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Mr. Peter Obi, has marked his 65th birthday with a message of reflection, gratitude to God, and a renewed commitment to service.

In a statement, Obi urged Nigerians to place greater emphasis on improving the lives of others rather than celebrating personal milestones extravagantly.

In a statement issued on Sunday to commemorate his birthday, Obi described turning 65 as an opportunity for deep reflection on life’s journey and on how the remaining years could be devoted more meaningfully to the service of God and humanity.

According to him, while birthdays in countries with stronger institutions and better living standards may naturally attract elaborate celebrations, Nigeria’s present realities call for sober reflection and greater commitment to addressing the challenges confronting millions of citizens.

He said that despite Nigeria’s abundant human and natural resources, many people continue to grapple with poverty, ill health, unemployment, insecurity, and limited opportunities, stressing that such conditions should inspire greater compassion and service rather than lavish personal celebrations.

Obi reiterated his long-held philosophy of treating birthdays as occasions for thanksgiving, reflection, and service to humanity.

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

"This conviction had shaped my conduct throughout my years in business, the corporate sector, and as Governor of Anambra State, where I consistently regarded public office and personal privilege as opportunities to improve the lives of others," Obi said.

He recalled that whenever individuals or organisations sought to honour him with expensive gifts or elaborate ceremonies, he encouraged them instead to channel such resources into projects with enduring public value, noting that this approach had, over the years, resulted in the construction of schools, hostel blocks, educational support programmes, and other facilities that continue to benefit the less privileged.

“The greatest honour anyone can receive is not found in gifts, ceremonies, or public admiration, but in knowing that one’s life has contributed, however modestly, to making another person’s life better", he added.

As part of the birthday activities, Obi attended a Mass of Thanksgiving in Onitsha, where he expressed gratitude to Almighty God for His grace, protection, guidance, and blessings throughout his life.

After the Mass, he visited St. Raphael’s Hospital, Umueri, a rural healthcare facility in Anambra East Local Government Area, where he donated ₦10 million to support the hospital’s efforts to provide quality healthcare to the people.

Reflecting on his visit to the hospital, Obi said that interacting with patients reminded him of the vulnerability shared by all humanity and reinforced the need for compassionate leadership.

According to him, true leadership is demonstrated by caring for people, especially those who are unable to repay acts of kindness.

He reaffirmed his belief that investments in healthcare and education remain among the most meaningful contributions anyone can make to society.

“A hospital preserves life; a school shapes the future,” he said, adding that supporting both sectors is not merely an act of charity, but a lasting investment in humanity and in the future of Nigeria.

Former Anambra guber candidate of ADC celebrates him

The former governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, in the last Anambra election, Mr John Nwosu, has congratulated Obi on his 65th birthday.

In a message to Obi on the occasion, Nwosu said: "We celebrate not only the gift of your life, but also your enduring commitment to integrity, visionary leadership, and the pursuit of a more prosperous, just, and inclusive Nigeria.

"Your steadfast dedication to the ideals of good governance, accountability, and national development continues to inspire millions of Nigerians, particularly the younger generation.

"As you mark another milestone, I pray that Almighty God grants you continued good health, divine wisdom, renewed strength, and many more years of impactful service to our nation and humanity."

He prayed God to continue to guide his steps, bless his endeavors, and crown his efforts with lasting success.