The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general elections, Peter Obi, has donated a total of ₦35 million to support education and healthcare institutions in Anambra and Enugu states.
Obi donated ₦25 million to Shanahan University in Onitsha, Anambra State, during a visit to the institution on Thursday, where he interacted with students, staff, and members of the university community.
The donation adds to his previous financial contributions to the institution, bringing his total support for Shanahan University to ₦75 million since its establishment in 2024.
During the visit, the former Anambra State governor reiterated his belief that investment in education remains one of the most effective pathways to national development, emphasizing that countries that prioritize knowledge and human capital are better positioned for economic growth and social progress.
Following the event, students and admirers reportedly gathered around Obi in large numbers, expressing excitement over his visit and his continued support for educational development.
Earlier, Obi had also pledged ₦10 million to Mother of Christ Specialist Hospital in Enugu State to assist with renovation works following a fire incident that affected the medical facility in May.
According to him, strengthening healthcare services is equally important to improving the quality of life of citizens, particularly at a time when many Nigerians face challenges in accessing affordable and quality medical care.
The donations form part of Obi’s long-running philanthropic activities focused on education, healthcare, and humanitarian causes.
Supporters have praised the gestures, describing them as evidence of his commitment to human capital development and his consistent advocacy for increased investment in social sectors.
Many admirers argue that such interventions reflect the priorities he has promoted throughout his public career as a businessman and former governor.
However, critics have questioned the timing of some of his donations as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, suggesting that charitable acts by politicians seeking public office should be subjected to public scrutiny.
Obi’s supporters reject such claims, maintaining that his record of donations to schools, hospitals, and other social causes predates his current presidential campaign.
Political analysts note that philanthropy by political figures often attracts both commendation and criticism, especially during election periods when public perception and political motives become subjects of intense debate.
The development has once again brought attention to the role of private contributions in supporting Nigeria’s education and healthcare sectors, areas that continue to face significant funding and infrastructure challenges.
As preparations for the 2027 elections continue, Obi’s actions and those of other political figures are expected to remain under close public examination, with supporters and opponents alike assessing their records, priorities, and contributions to national development.
