Former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has marked his 64th birthday by reiterating his longstanding practice of redirecting personal celebrations towards humanitarian causes.
In a message posted on his verified social media account on Friday, Obi expressed deep appreciation for the outpouring of goodwill and birthday wishes he received from across the world.
He specifically thanked Nigerian youths, members of the Obidient movement, and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul for their continued support and commitment to the poor.
“From the bottom of my heart, I sincerely thank everyone for the outpouring of goodwill and birthday wishes I received worldwide,” he wrote. “I remain deeply grateful to all who marked the day in one way or another.”
Obi used the opportunity to restate his personal stance against elaborate birthday celebrations, recalling instances during his tenure as governor when he declined expensive gifts or festivities and instead urged donors to channel resources toward education and public service.
“When I turned 50, during my time as Governor, many institutions and individuals approached me with elaborate plans for the occasion. One institution generously offered to build a house for me in the village at the cost of ₦120 million. I humbly requested that the funds be redirected to build classrooms in Agulu, Ekwulobia and Abatete,” he said. “Another group had budgeted ₦20 million for a lavish party, but I asked them to use it to purchase desktop computers for schools.”
Obi noted that this approach has remained consistent throughout his life and that each birthday serves as a reminder to support initiatives that impact lives. He revealed that other organisations also redirected intended celebrations into donations, including the provision of buses for various institutions, one of which was given to the Old Rangers Association.
While acknowledging the honour and goodwill extended to him on his birthday, Obi expressed deep concern over the socioeconomic challenges confronting the country, describing the current conditions as unsuitable for personal merriment.
“As I turned 64 years old yesterday, I must confess that the current state of our nation makes the idea of personal merriment even more difficult to contemplate,” he said. “The scale of suffering and deprivation among our people weighs heavily on the conscience.”
Obi urged those wishing to honour him to instead direct resources to the poor or to struggling health and educational institutions. He said he had chosen to spend the day renewing his commitment to supporting public institutions that serve the common good.
He disclosed that he marked his birthday in Rome, where he visited the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs. According to him, he used the opportunity to pray for Nigeria and its leadership.
“I especially prayed for our beloved country, Nigeria—that God may touch the hearts of our leaders, and awaken in them the realisation that public funds are meant for the public good,” he said.
Obi added his message by urging Nigerians to continue striving for a more just and equitable society, pledging his continued personal effort in that direction.
