Former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has recounted how a ₦120 million birthday gift initially meant for him was redirected to build classrooms in three communities.
The move, he said, reflects his enduring belief in redirecting personal goodwill into projects that benefit the public.
Obi shared this in a sincere message posted on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, as he marked his 64th birthday. He reiterated his long-held practice of not observing birthdays in a personal or lavish manner but instead using such occasions to drive positive societal impact.
While expressing heartfelt appreciation to his friends, supporters, members of the Obidient movement, and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul for their gestures on his birthday, Obi reflected on a similar act 14 years ago, during his tenure as Anambra State governor.
According to Obi, an institution had offered to construct a house for him valued at ₦120 million to commemorate his 50th birthday. Rather than accept the gift, he requested that the funds be redirected toward educational development in the state.
“I humbly requested that the funds be redirected to build classrooms in three educational institutions at Agulu, Ekwulobia, and Abatete. They obliged—and the impact was far-reaching,” Obi wrote.
He also referenced other moments when he was able to persuade well-wishers to reconsider spending on personal celebrations and instead contribute to public causes. One such instance involved a group that had planned a ₦20 million party in his honour. At his urging, they diverted the funds to purchase desktop computers for schools. Their eventual donation of 200 computers was shared across educational institutions, enhancing learning opportunities for students.
In another case, Obi noted that an organisation chose to donate buses to various institutions, including the Old Rangers Association, instead of organising a birthday celebration.
He emphasized that this approach of redirecting birthday goodwill has become a defining practice for him. Each year, Obi said he views his birthday as a moment to inspire positive action rather than indulge in festivities.
“The current state of our nation makes the idea of personal merriment even more difficult to contemplate. The scale of suffering and deprivation among our people weighs heavily on the conscience,” he wrote.
Given Nigeria’s deepening economic and social crises, Obi urged supporters and friends to consider using their resources to support vulnerable populations or help strengthen sectors like health and education, rather than sending him gifts or planning elaborate celebrations.
Obi also disclosed that he spent his 64th birthday at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs in Rome, where he prayed fervently for the country.
“I especially prayed 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 noted.
He concluded his message with a personal commitment to continue backing institutions that offer direct service to the people, especially in areas critical to national development.
“May we all find strength and grace to keep striving for a more just, compassionate, and equitable society,” Obi added.
What you should know
Peter Obi is widely recognized for his frugal and people-focused leadership style, both during and after his tenure as governor.
His decision to convert personal birthday gifts into public projects further underscores his consistent philosophy that leadership should serve the public good over personal benefit.
