Peter Obi’s ₦50 million donation to church-backed university raises eyebrows

DDM News

Former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, has reaffirmed his dedication to advancing education by supporting the newly established University on the Niger.

During the official opening of the university’s permanent site at Umunya, Diaspora digital media (DDM) noted how Obi expressed his strong belief in education as a vital tool for societal progress.

The event was presided over by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Dr. Henry Ndukuba.

Reflecting on his tenure as governor, Obi emphasized the significance of his decision to return mission schools to their original owners, the Church.

This policy, he explained, reignited the Church’s commitment to investing in education and laid the foundation for the establishment of new universities in Anambra State.

Obi noted that these institutions have been pivotal in enhancing human capital development within and beyond the state.

He commended the leadership of the Diocese on the Niger, under Rt. Rev. Dr. Owen Nwokolo, for its vision and courage in establishing the university.

Obi described the institution as a beacon of hope for future generations and a testament to the transformative power of education.

Obi’s support for the University on the Niger has been consistent.

In November 2024, he donated ₦50 million to the institution to aid its development.

These funds were strategically used to improve the university’s facilities, further demonstrating his commitment to fostering quality education.

“My support for this institution and others like it will remain unwavering,” Obi said. “I believe education is the foundation for national development, and I will continue to contribute to providing opportunities for our youth to access quality learning.”

Most Rev. Dr. Henry Ndukuba praised Bishop Nwokolo for his initiative and dedication to founding the university.

He urged individuals and organizations to lend their support to the institution to help it achieve its mission of societal transformation.

Speaking to journalists after the event, Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna, former Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning and Peter Obi’s Chief of Staff, now the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Paul University Awka, highlighted Obi’s pivotal role in facilitating the university’s establishment.

She recounted how Obi, as governor, ensured the land was returned to the Church after the NYSC camp was relocated to Mbaukwu/Umuawulu—a project Obi initiated.

This act, she said, was the foundation for the university’s creation.

Prof. Okunna also praised Obi’s contributions to healthcare and education through his government-Church partnership.

She cited his significant investments in Iyienu Hospital, which now serves as the university’s teaching hospital.

Obi’s efforts in upgrading the hospital’s infrastructure during his tenure, and his continued support afterward, underscore his commitment to advancing education and healthcare.

The event culminated in the commissioning of several completed projects by the Primate, signaling a major milestone for the institution.

The University on the Niger is set to play a transformative role in Anambra State, fostering academic excellence, innovation, and human capacity development.

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