THIS DAWN — The Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has reaffirmed his commitment to education and healthcare by donating ₦15 million to the College of Nursing Sciences, St. Charles Borromew Hospital, Onitsha. The donation, made during his weekend visit to the institution, was described as part of his long-standing vision to strengthen the twin pillars of national development: education and healthcare.
Addressing the management, staff, and students of the college, Obi emphasized the indispensable role of nurses and other health professionals in sustaining Nigeria’s healthcare system. He noted that the country’s ability to save lives and deliver quality medical services depends largely on the strength of its training institutions. “When we invest in the education of nurses, we are investing in the future of healthcare delivery,” he said, urging students to pursue their studies with discipline, excellence, and a strong sense of service despite the challenges confronting the sector.
A Personal Encounter Underscoring the Value of Nurses
To illustrate the life-saving importance of the nursing profession, Obi recounted an incident he witnessed while traveling from Lagos to Asaba en route to the nursing school. According to him, a female passenger suddenly began gasping for breath mid-flight, causing panic among those on board. The situation was quickly brought under control by a nurse who happened to be a fellow passenger. Obi said the incident reinforced his belief that nurses are critical to society, often serving as the first line of response in emergencies.
Comparing Nigeria’s Healthcare Coverage with Global Standards
Obi also used the occasion to highlight disparities in healthcare delivery across nations. He cited Indonesia’s achievement of over 95 percent medical insurance coverage, contrasting it with Nigeria’s estimated coverage of about five percent. He argued that the comparison demonstrates what is possible when governments deliberately invest in healthcare and ensure access down to the grassroots. “It is not about what we cannot do; it is about what we choose to prioritize,” he remarked, stressing that Nigeria must adopt policies that guarantee affordable healthcare for all citizens.
Call for Collective Support
The former Anambra State governor assured the students of his continued support for nursing schools and called on friends, philanthropists, and well-meaning Nigerians to assist such institutions within their capacities. He noted that the demand for nurses remains high worldwide, with many countries exempting them from visa restrictions due to their critical role in healthcare systems. “This global demand reflects the universal value of the nursing profession,” Obi said, encouraging students to see their career path as one of service and opportunity.
Management Commends Obi’s Gesture
The management of the College of Nursing Sciences expressed deep appreciation for the donation, describing it as timely and impactful. Fr. Basil Ekwunife, who welcomed Obi to the institution, recalled his tenure as Governor of Anambra State, noting that his administration transformed the state through strategic investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He commended Obi’s consistency in supporting initiatives that promote national progress, saying the donation would go a long way in improving facilities and enhancing the training of future nurses.
Broader Implications
Obi’s donation comes at a time when Nigeria’s healthcare sector is grappling with inadequate funding, brain drain, and infrastructural deficits. Analysts say his gesture underscores the importance of private and individual contributions in bridging gaps left by government underinvestment. By focusing on nursing education, Obi has drawn attention to a critical area often overlooked in policy discussions, despite its centrality to healthcare delivery.
For the students of the College of Nursing Sciences, the ₦15 million support is more than financial aid; it is a morale booster and a reminder that their chosen profession is valued. As one student put it, “This donation shows that our efforts matter, and it inspires us to work harder.”
Conclusion
Peter Obi’s visit and donation to the College of Nursing Sciences, St. Charles Borromew Hospital, Onitsha, highlight his enduring commitment to education and healthcare as foundations for sustainable national development. His message to the students was clear: excellence, discipline, and service must guide their journey as nurses. With Nigeria’s healthcare system in urgent need of reform, Obi’s gesture serves as both a practical intervention and a symbolic call for collective responsibility in building a healthier nation.
