Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate for the Labour Party, has turned down a request from the leadership of Shanahan College of Nursing Sciences in Nsukka to name a hall after him. This request came after Obi made a generous donation of ₦20 million for the school’s ongoing infrastructure development.
Reverend Father Kelvin Caesar, the institution’s manager, had approached Obi with the proposal, asking for permission to name the hall in his honor. Caesar made the announcement to the audience during Obi’s presentation of the ₦20 million cheque, highlighting that the construction of the hall was fully funded by the former governor.
In response, Obi quickly declined the offer. He explained that he had made donations to over 50 institutions across Nigeria, and it would not be appropriate to have all of them named after him. Obi remarked, “I do it to serve humanity. The reason God blesses us with resources is to use them to improve the lives of others and not for self-glorification.”
He emphasized that his philanthropic efforts in education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation were driven by a desire to secure a better future for Nigerian children. Obi made it clear that his donations were not for personal recognition but rather to benefit others. He assured the school community that his support would continue, stating, “I will return.”
Obi’s refusal to allow the hall to be named after him reflects his commitment to selfless giving and his focus on societal improvement over personal accolades. His actions show that his philanthropy is rooted in a desire to make a positive impact rather than seeking fame or honor.
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