By Ihechi Enyinnaya
In what observers have described as an unprecedented show of philanthropy and grassroots engagement, former Anambra State governor and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has donated over ₦1 billion to schools, internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, orphanages, health institutions, and community development initiatives across Nigeria between January and July 2025 alone.
While a breakdown of his monetary donations reveals a total of ₦596 million in direct cash support to more than 30 institutions, analysts say the true value of his outreach surpasses ₦1 billion when the monetary worth of donated equipment, humanitarian relief materials, and support to unlisted locations is taken into account.
From his ₦50 million donation to the University on the Niger on January 8, to his most recent ₦20 million contribution to the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Calabar on July 25, Obi has maintained a steady pace of outreach across multiple states.
He has provided:
*₦50 million to Christ the King College, Onitsha (July 24)
*₦30 million to Paul’s University, Awka
*₦25 million each to IHM Vital Healthcare, DDL College of Nursing, and others
*₦10–20 million to various nursing and midwifery schools across Enugu, Afikpo, Nsukka, Nnewi, Kaduna, Owerri, Mbaise, and Benin
*₦20 million to flood victims in Niger State
*₦6 million plus 10 laptops and 3 printers to Chibok Secondary School in Borno
*₦7.5 million to IDPs in Bokkos, Plateau State
Many of the locations visited, including Almajiri schools in Kaduna, orphanages in Anambra, and rural health centers in Nassarawa and Abuja, received both financial aid and physical visits, where Obi personally assessed ongoing projects or needs.
Beyond the sheer monetary value, Obi’s visits have been hailed for their consistency, inclusivity, and hands-on approach. He has visited institutions regardless of religion or region, donating to both Christian and Islamic schools, IDPs in the North Central, and educational facilities across the Southeast, South-South, and North-West.
In a statement accompanying one of his donations, Obi said:
“Education and healthcare are the most critical investments we can make for our people. If we build human capital, we build the nation.”
Supporters and observers have likened Obi’s frequent, often unannounced visits to a tireless mission, with some online describing him as a man who “moves like a spirit.” Many believe his approach reflects a new model of people-centered leadership, with a focus on service delivery over political noise.
Though Peter Obi has not officially declared for the 2027 presidential race, many see his ongoing activities as a continuation of the “Obidient” movement’s ethos — a movement that emphasizes accountability, transparency, and grassroots development.
As one supporter wrote on social media,
“While others are preparing for elections, Peter Obi is building a better country one school, one hospital, one orphanage at a time.”
Those close to the former governor say these donations represent only a part of his personal philanthropy, noting that several locations he visited did not publicize the donations. With nearly half a year remaining, and his pace of giving undiminished, Peter Obi’s total support to education, health, and humanitarian causes in 2025 could far exceed the current estimate.