By Ikeugonna Eleke
Former Anambra State Governor and Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, in the last General Elections, Mr Peter Obi, has performed his yearly ritual of breaking fast with Muslim Communities in Anambra State.
On Friday, March 14, Obi broke his fast with Muslims at the Awka Central Mosque in Anambra State, choosing to dine with children on the occasion.
According to his media aide, Mr Valentine Obienyem, it was a gesture that once more demonstrated Obi’s love for children, as well as religious tolerance.
‘His willingness to break bread with the Muslim Community, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, is a demonstration of commitment to unity and understanding,’ Obienyem stated.
The Muslim Community, in turn, prayed for Obi and wished him well in his endeavours.
His donation of bags of rice, malt drinks, bottled water, and cooked rice for the breaking of fast was a kind gesture that further endeared him to the community, according to Prof Chinyere Okunna, a commissioner in Obi’s Regime.
‘What is striking about Obi’s visit is the absence of fanfare and security personnel. No broad-chested aides or stern-looking policemen or soldiers were present, allowing him to truly connect with the people.
‘This humility and willingness to engage with the community are qualities that make Obi a beloved leader,’ she noted.
The same Friday, Obi donated N20 million to two Colleges of Nursing Sciences in Imo and Anambra states.
He presented cheques of N10 million each to the Holy Rosary College of Nursing, Ogbe, in Ahiara Catholic Diocese, Mbaise, and the College of Nursing Sciences, Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Ihiala.
During his visit to both institutions, Obi emphasized the significance of healthcare and education in national development and the well-being of citizens.
He commended the Catholic Diocese of Ahiara for embarking on the College of Nursing Project, describing it as a vital contribution to securing a better future for Nigeria.
“My Lords, what you are doing is a great service to our country,” Obi said. “This donation is not a favour to you, but a recognition of your efforts in nation-building. I will always support this project because it is about securing a better future for our country.”
Obi further stated that the government must prioritize quality education, including the prompt payment of teachers’ salaries. He emphasized the need for free and accessible education at the primary and secondary levels, both in public and private schools.
He assured that he would continue to support the colleges of nursing to ensure they become centers of excellence in training healthcare professionals who will contribute to national development.
Expressing his gratitude, Bishop Simeon Nwobi commended Obi for his relentless commitment to building a better Nigeria.
“We are deeply grateful for this generous donation,” the bishop said. “You have been doing so much for our country, and we continue to pray for God’s will to be done in your life.”
He also confirmed that the college would officially commence operations next year and invited Obi to attend the opening ceremony.
Speaking on the sidelines, Very Rev. Fr Okoro revealed that the college’s construction began in late 2021 and, in addition to nursing and midwifery, would also offer courses in pharmacy, cardiology, and laboratory sciences.
At Our Lady of Lourdes, Ihiala, SUG President Miss Anigbo Chisom Mary, speaking on behalf of her fellow students, expressed gratitude to Obi for his unwavering support. “You have always shown us compassion and care,” she said. “You are our role model, and we will not let you down.”
Obi’s actions shows that leadership can be simple, yet powerful.
By breaking bread with the Muslim community and supporting nursing students, Obi has demonstrated that he is a leader who truly cares about the people he serves.
