The Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 presidential election, Peter Obi, has expressed heartfelt appreciation to supporters across Nigeria and beyond for the overwhelming show of love and goodwill as he marked his 64th birthday.
Obi’s birthday, celebrated on Saturday, July 19, was celebrated by community service and solidarity meetings around the world, particularly by members of the Obedient Movement and other supporters.
Obi restated his lifelong attitude of foregoing lavish personal celebrations in favour of causes that serve the poor and develop public institutions in a message delivered on Sunday from Rome, Italy.
“I sincerely thank everyone for the outpouring of goodwill and birthday wishes I received worldwide. I remain deeply grateful to all who marked the day in one way or another — especially Nigerian youths, the Obidient family, and members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul,” Obi said.
The former governor of Anambra State shared anecdotes from his time as governor, recounting how he redirected millions of naira intended for birthday gifts or celebrations into projects that benefitted communities.
“One institution offered to build me a house in my village, costing ₦120 million. I asked them to, instead, build classrooms in Agulu, Ekwulobia, and Abatete. They obliged—and the impact was far-reaching.”
He shared how a planned ₦20 million birthday party resulted in a donation of 200 desktop computers to schools in Anambra.
In the same vein, another celebration was transformed into the donation of buses to institutions including the Old Rangers Association.
“This has been my consistent approach—using birthdays to champion educational advancement and support for the underprivileged and strengthen state-serving institutions,” he noted.
Obi emphasised that the current economic hardship in Nigeria makes personal merriment inappropriate.
“The level of poverty and suffering in Nigeria makes celebration difficult. This is why I have once again requested that all who wish to celebrate me should channel their resources toward helping the poor or supporting our struggling health and educational institutions.”
He pledged his personal commitment to continue supporting the Nigerian people in practical ways.
“On my part, I have chosen this day to renew my personal commitment to continue supporting the institutions of state in the best way I can, especially those that directly serve the people.”
He stated that his birthday coincided with a spiritual moment during his visit to the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs in Rome, where he offered special prayers for Nigeria.
“I especially prayed for our beloved country—that God may touch the hearts of our leaders and awaken in them the realisation that public funds are meant for the public good.”
Calling on citizens to remain hopeful and united, Obi added, “May we all find strength and grace to keep striving for a more just, compassionate, and equitable society.”
