By Osaretin Osadebamwen
Former Anambra State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has marked his 65th birthday with a message of gratitude, reflection and renewed commitment to serving humanity.
In a statement released on Sunday to commemorate the occasion, Obi said birthdays should not only be moments for celebration but also opportunities for individuals to reflect on their lives and consider how they can contribute more meaningfully to society.
The former governor urged Nigerians to place greater emphasis on improving the lives of others rather than engaging in excessive celebrations, stressing that the country’s present challenges require compassion, sacrifice and collective responsibility.
Obi noted that while celebrations may be fitting in societies where basic needs are largely met and institutions function effectively, Nigeria’s current realities demand that citizens and leaders focus resources on creating a better future.
He highlighted some of the challenges facing Nigerians, including poverty, unemployment, insecurity, poor healthcare and limited opportunities, despite the country’s vast human and natural resources. Obi called for greater commitment to policies and actions that improve the wellbeing of citizens and promote national development.
“The greatest celebration of life is not what we receive from others, but the lives we are able to touch positively,” Obi said.
He explained that the philosophy had guided his approach throughout his years in business, the corporate world and during his tenure as governor of Anambra State, where he viewed every opportunity as a chance to make a positive impact.
Obi recalled that whenever individuals or organisations sought to celebrate him with expensive gifts or elaborate ceremonies, he encouraged them to redirect such resources towards projects with lasting benefits.
He said the approach had contributed to the establishment of schools, hostel blocks, educational support programmes and other facilities that continue to assist less privileged communities.
“The greatest honour anyone can receive is not found in gifts, ceremonies, or public admiration, but in knowing that one’s life has contributed, however modestly, to making another person’s life better,” he added.
As part of activities marking his 65th birthday, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi attended a Mass of Thanksgiving in Onitsha, where he expressed gratitude to God for the grace, protection and guidance he has received throughout his life.
Following the thanksgiving service, Obi visited St. Raphael’s Hospital, Umueri, a rural healthcare facility in Anambra East Local Government Area, where he donated ₦10 million to support medical services and improve healthcare delivery. He said his engagement with patients at the hospital reinforced the need for compassionate leadership and greater support for vulnerable citizens.
Obi stressed that true leadership should be measured by the ability to positively impact lives, particularly those who may not have the resources to give anything in return. He reaffirmed his belief that education and healthcare remain critical investments for building a stronger and more prosperous society.
“A hospital preserves life; a school shapes the future,” Obi said, adding that supporting both sectors goes beyond charity as it represents an investment in humanity and Nigeria’s future.
