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Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate for the Labour Party, revealed that he has contributed over N200 million to education within just one week, aiming to secure a better future for Nigeria’s youth.
Obi shared this information during the 70th Anniversary celebration of Queens School Enugu, hosted by the Queens School Old Girls Association (QSEOGA) on Saturday. He stated, “On Monday, I visited Onitsha for the launch of a new university, and from there, I proceeded to Borromeo College of Nursing. On Tuesday, I went to Anyigba in Kogi State to support students, and on Thursday, I attended to the needs of Almajiri School in Kaduna.”
“I have donated over N200 million in one week specifically for educational purposes,” he said.
Highlighting the critical role of education, Obi emphasized that no nation can thrive without it. He noted that his investment aims to create opportunities for young people and steer them away from criminal activities.
As a former Governor of Anambra State, Obi stressed that a country’s future is heavily reliant on its commitment to both education and health. He expressed concern over the current state of Queen School Enugu, which has a legacy of producing many distinguished individuals but has recently fallen into disrepair.
“Those who attended this school might be surprised at how we reached this point. A once-celebrated institution has sadly become something to lament,” he remarked. “I urge you all to come together and work on restoring this school. My message to former students and others in Nigeria is: Let’s focus on rehabilitating our existing schools instead of merely establishing new ones.”
He also promised to collaborate with the association to revitalize the school. Earlier, Mrs. Ifeanyi Egbunike, the National President of the association, mentioned the various issues plaguing the school, including a lack of modern infrastructure.
“I graduated in 1974, and today we honor Queen School for its long-standing history. I’m celebrating 50 years of my association with this institution. It has nurtured countless individuals,” Egbunike stated. “We chose Obi as our guest because he embodies vision, results, and a passion for education.”
Mrs. Maureen Atuonwu, Chairperson of the Enugu Chapter of the association, added that Queen School Enugu was founded on October 4, 1954. She noted that alumni from around the globe gathered to commemorate the school’s 70 years, emphasizing the association’s commitment to its upliftment. “We have convened to explore strategies for rebuilding this school, as government efforts alone will not suffice. We are collaborating with the Enugu State Government to enhance this institution further.”
“This school has produced numerous professionals who have excelled in various fields, including Professor Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala,” Atuonwu remarked.