THIS DAWN — Former presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, has renewed his call for urgent national investment in education, describing it as the most critical driver of Nigeria’s long-term development.
Mr. Obi’s remarks followed two major engagements this week:
- a visit to the College of Medical and Nursing Sciences at Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, and,
- an address at the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) International Conference in Umuahia.
During his visit to Godfrey Okoye University, Obi commended the institution’s “remarkable transformation”.
He noted that visible progress has been made since his last tour of its facilities.
The former Anambra State governor attributed the improvements to “dedication, vision, and purposeful leadership”.
He stressed that such qualities are vital if Nigeria is to reposition its education and healthcare sectors.
As part of his contribution to the ongoing infrastructural expansion of the College of Medical and Nursing Sciences, Obi donated ₦15 million.
He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening institutions that shape Nigeria’s healthcare workforce.
Addressing the students, he reminded them that they are “global citizens” who will define the future of the nation’s health system.
The former presidential candidate urged that they be provided an enabling environment and moral grounding to excel.
NAPPS International Conference
At the NAPPS International Conference, Obi delivered a strong critique of Nigeria’s persistent underinvestment in education and healthcare.
He argued that no nation can rise above the quality of the education it provides its citizens.
He praised private school proprietors for their resilience, noting that they now shoulder responsibilities the government should ordinarily carry.
With private institutions accounting for over 60% of Nigeria’s basic education, he emphasized the need for government support.
Obi demanded better teacher training, modern curricula, technology-driven learning, and policies that will make quality education affordable.
He was, thereafter, honored with the NAPPS National Role Model Award, which he described as an encouragement to students nationwide.
He reflected on his tenure as Anambra State governor, recalling policies that strengthened both public and private institutions through the provision of buses, computers, generators, and critical learning materials.
Reiterating his long-held view, Obi stressed that education must become Nigeria’s top national priority “not merely in speeches, but in budgetary commitment, planning, and execution.
He insisted that it remains the most reliable pathway to true national transformation.
