Mr. Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate for the 2023 elections, has announced that he contributed over N200 million to educational initiatives within a single week, aiming to secure a brighter future for the youth.
Obi shared this information during the 70th anniversary celebration of Queens School Enugu, organized by the Queens School Old Girls Association (QSEOGA) on Saturday.
“On Monday, I visited Onitsha, where a new university was inaugurated. Following that, I attended Borromeo College of Nursing. On Tuesday, I traveled to Anyigba in Kogi State to address students’ needs, and on Thursday, I went to an Almajiri School in Kaduna for the same purpose,” he revealed. “In total, I have donated over N200 million within this week for education.”
Highlighting the critical role of education in national development, Obi asserted that no nation can thrive without investing in this sector. He expressed his commitment to supporting the younger generation to steer them away from crime.
The former Governor of Anambra State emphasized that a country’s future hinges on its investments in health and education. He lamented the decline of Queens School Enugu, which has produced many distinguished individuals yet has fallen into disrepair.
“For those who studied here, it’s disheartening to see how far we have strayed from our glory,” Obi remarked. “A school that was once celebrated now has little to commend itself. I urge you all to unite your resources to restore this school. My appeal to former students and all Nigerians is to focus on revitalizing our existing schools rather than building new ones.”
He committed to collaborating with the association to rejuvenate the institution.
In her opening remarks, Mrs. Ifeanyi Egbunike, National President of the association, acknowledged the various challenges facing the school, including a lack of modern facilities. “I graduated from this school in 1974, and I’m proud to celebrate its long-standing legacy. Today marks 50 years since I became part of this community. The school has nurtured countless individuals, and we chose Obi because he embodies vision, results-driven leadership, and a passion for education,” Egbunike stated.
Mrs. Maureen Atuonwu, Chairperson of the Enugu Chapter of the association, noted that Queens School Enugu was established on October 4, 1954. She mentioned that alumni traveled from around the globe to celebrate its 70th anniversary and that the association is committed to its improvement.
“We have convened to explore strategies for rebuilding this school, recognizing that the government alone cannot accomplish this. We are working in partnership with the Enugu State Government to elevate the institution further,” Atuonwu added. “This school has produced numerous professionals who have excelled in their respective fields, including Prof. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.” (NAN)
