Chinedum Elekwachi
There was mild drama on Thursday at Our Lady of Lourdes School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ihiala, Anambra State following former Governor of the state, Mr. Peter Obi’s rejection plan by the school’s management to name a new administrative building after him.
Mr. Obi was visiting the institution to donate ₦15 million for its development when the school’s Administrator, Rev. Fr. Chidiebere Ughaerumba, announced that the five-storey building under construction would be named in Obi’s honour, in appreciation of his consistent support to the school.
Fr. Ughaerumba said the gesture was in recognition of the former governor’s long-standing commitment to education and healthcare, especially his assistance to the institution during and after his tenure.
However, Obi immediately objected to the proposal, insisting that his donations were acts of service to humanity and not gestures deserving of personal recognition.
He stated that throughout his time in public office, he had consistently declined similar offers, including chieftaincy titles, honorary degrees, and national awards, because he believed service should not be tied to self-glorification.
“When I was Governor, many wanted to honour me with titles and awards, but I always declined. Even local governments wanted to name streets after me, and I said no.
“Any day I want to be called ‘Doctor,’ I will go and earn it. Whatever I need, God has already given me,” he said.
Obi’s preference
Obi explained that he preferred to use his resources to support schools and hospitals to indulging in personal luxuries, adding that it would be meaningless to live lavishly while important institutions lacked basic facilities.
“Just this week, I have visited five schools and donated between ₦5 million and ₦15 million each. It is better to use money to support education than to throw parties or buy new cars,” he said.
After presenting the ₦15 million cheque to the college, Obi reiterated his commitment to supporting education and healthcare, which he described as “the two most important sectors for national development.”
Speaking at the event, Bishop of Nnewi Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Jonas-Benson Okoye, commended Obi for his humility but noted that the institution did not need his permission to honour him.
The Bishop recalled that as governor, Obi named the Prof. Kenneth Dike Library in Awka after the renowned historian, adding that recognising individuals who have contributed meaningfully to society helps to inspire others.
“Honouring good deeds is not vanity; it encourages others to serve with sincerity,” the Bishop said.
Also present at the event were Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna and Prof. Patrick Obi, who both supported the Bishop’s view, describing the proposed honour as well-deserved.
