Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has thanked Nigerians and supporters worldwide for their overwhelming goodwill and birthday wishes.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that Obi, who turned 64 on July 19, 2025, shared a heartfelt message on his verified Facebook page, expressing gratitude while reiterating his longstanding refusal to celebrate birthdays personally.
In his statement, Obi acknowledged the countless individuals and groups—including the Nigerian youths, members of the Obidient movement, and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul—who marked the day with gestures of kindness and charity.
He said that while he appreciated the celebration, he preferred that such goodwill be redirected to benefit the poor, and to improve health and educational institutions across Nigeria.
Obi recalled how, during his 50th birthday celebration as Governor of Anambra State, individuals and organizations had offered to honor him with expensive gifts and elaborate parties.
He recounted that one group proposed to build him a house worth ₦120 million in his village.
Obi said he declined the offer and instead requested that the funds be used to construct classrooms in three locations: Agulu, Ekwulobia, and Abatete.
According to him, the organization obliged, and the completed classrooms left a lasting impact on education in the state.
He also mentioned another group that had budgeted ₦20 million for a lavish birthday party, which he redirected toward the purchase of 200 desktop computers distributed to schools statewide.
In another instance, he revealed that an organisation planning a grand celebration ended up donating buses, including one given to the historic Old Rangers Association.
Peter Obi emphasized that these decisions reflect his personal philosophy of turning goodwill into social impact.
He noted that this approach has remained consistent over the years and aligns with his belief that birthdays should be an opportunity for compassion and service to humanity.
Speaking from Rome, where he visited the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs, Obi disclosed that he spent his birthday in prayer for Nigeria.
He prayed specifically for national leaders, asking God to touch their hearts and awaken their sense of responsibility to use public funds for the common good.
Obi lamented the worsening state of Nigeria, stressing that the current scale of poverty and suffering makes personal merriment impossible for him.
He urged well-wishers to redirect their gifts toward charitable causes rather than personal celebrations.
He concluded by reaffirming his personal commitment to supporting institutions that serve the people, especially in health and education.
“May we all find strength and grace to keep striving for a more just, compassionate, and equitable society,” Obi wrote.
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