Obi Reaffirms Unwavering Belief In Transformative Power Of Education, Visits Schools To Commemorate International Day Of Education
By Ifeizu Joe
The former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, has reaffirmed his unwavering belief in the transformative power of education to drive development and innovation.
Mr Obi stated this on Friday, 25th January, 2025, to mark the 2025 International Day of Education.
Obi visited the Dennis Memorial
Grammar school, Onitsha, to commemorate the International Day of Education, which also coincided with the Centenary Anniversary of the school.
Former governor Obi also visited other schools across the State, from urban centres to rural communities, highlighting the critical role of education.
At DMGS, Obi reflected on the achievements of the school’s distinguished alumni, including Prof. Kenneth Dike, the first Black Vice-Chancellor in Africa; Emmanuel Ifeajuna, the first African to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games; Bishop Jonathan Onyemelukwe; Prof. James Ezeilo, former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka; Prof. Ilochi Okafor, former Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; Dr. Tim Menakaya, former Nigerian Minister of Health; and Chief Simon Okeke, former Chairman of the Police Service Commission.
He noted that these notable figures exemplify the power of education to transform lives and societies.
Addressing the students, the former Governor urged them to take their education seriously, emphasizing that with dedication and hard work, they too could achieve greatness like other school’s illustrious alumni.
Obi also visited the community of Nmiata-Anam, a place he described as being close to his heart. He recalled how, during his gubernatorial campaign, he had travelled to the town by boat due to lack of accessible roads, and had promised the community a bridge and road network, and today, he proudly noted that this promise had been fulfilled, connecting the area to the rest of Anambra State.
Obi visited Community Primary School and Our Lady of Lourdes Secondary School in Nmiata-Anam where he also interacted with students, emphasizing the critical role of education in shaping their futures. He pledged his continued support to the schools.
The former Governor highlighted the transformative power of education in building a skilled workforce, fostering innovation, and driving sustainable development. He cited examples of countries like India, China, Morocco, and Egypt, which have significantly advanced their global standing through strategic investments in education.
He, however, acknowledged challenges facing Nigeria’s education sector, including inadequate funding, shortage of qualified teachers, outdated curricula, and insecurity.
He, therefore, called on the government to prioritize education and ensure that every Nigerian child receives at least basic education, stating that doing so would create more productive and progressive population.
In conclusion, Obi urged Nigerians to commit to building a future where every child has access to quality education, reaffirming his vision of a New Nigeria driven by investment in education and the unlocking of the country’s full potential.
Reacting at DMGS, the Principal, Ven. Chigozie Anieto, commended Obi for his unwavering concern for humanity and prayed for God’s continued blessings upon him.
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