Peter Obi, Labour Party presidential candidate and former Anambra State governor, has expressed deep gratitude to Nigerians and his supporters worldwide for the outpouring of goodwill as he celebrated his 64th birthday on Saturday, July 19.
Obi’s birthday was marked with acts of community service and solidarity events organised by members of the Obidient Movement and other well-wishers across different parts of the world.
In a statement issued on Sunday from Rome, Italy, Obi reiterated his belief in avoiding extravagant personal celebrations, preferring instead to use such occasions to support the less privileged and strengthen public institutions.
“I sincerely thank everyone for the outpouring of goodwill and birthday wishes I received worldwide. I remain deeply grateful to all who marked the day in one way or another — especially Nigerian youths, the Obidient family, and members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul,” Obi said.
Sharing personal anecdotes from his time as governor of Anambra State, Obi recalled how he consistently redirected funds meant for birthday gifts or parties into community projects.
“One institution offered to build me a house in my village at a cost of ₦120 million. I asked them to build classrooms in Agulu, Ekwulobia, and Abatete instead, which they did—and the impact was far-reaching,” he said.
He also recounted how a planned ₦20 million birthday celebration was turned into the donation of 200 desktop computers distributed to schools across the state. Similarly, another celebration was used to donate buses to groups such as the Old Rangers Association.
“This has always been my approach—using birthdays to champion educational advancement, support for the underprivileged, and strengthen institutions that serve the people,” Obi stated.
He stressed that the current economic hardship in Nigeria makes personal celebrations inappropriate.
“The level of poverty and suffering in Nigeria makes celebration difficult. This is why I have once again requested that all who wish to celebrate me should channel their resources toward helping the poor or supporting our struggling health and educational institutions,” he said.
Obi added that his birthday this year coincided with a spiritual moment during his visit to the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs in Rome, where he offered special prayers for Nigeria.
“I especially prayed for our beloved country—that God may touch the hearts of our leaders and awaken in them the realization that public funds are meant for the public good,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to serve, Obi concluded:
“On my part, I have chosen this day to renew my personal commitment to continue supporting the institutions of state in the best way I can, especially those that directly serve the people. May we all find strength and grace to keep striving for a more just, compassionate, and equitable society.”
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