The presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has urged Nigerians to place greater emphasis on improving the lives of others rather than celebrating personal milestones extravagantly.

In a statement on Sunday to commemorate his birthday in Enugu State, Mr Obi expressed gratitude to God and renewed commitment to the service of humanity.

He described turning 65 as an opportunity for deep reflection on life’s journey and on how the remaining years could be devoted more meaningfully to the service of God and humanity.

According to him, while birthdays in countries with stronger institutions and better living standards may naturally attract elaborate celebrations, Nigeria’s present realities call for sober reflection and greater commitment to addressing the challenges confronting millions of citizens.

He observed that despite Nigeria’s abundant human and natural resources, many people continue to grapple with poverty, ill health, unemployment, insecurity, and limited opportunities.

The former Anambra State governor stressed that such conditions should inspire greater compassion and service rather than lavish personal celebrations.

Mr Obi reiterated his long-held philosophy of treating birthdays as occasions for thanksgiving, reflection, and service to humanity.

“The greatest celebration of life is not what we receive from others, but the lives we are able to touch positively,” he said.

He noted that this conviction had shaped his conduct throughout his years in business, corporate sector, and as governor of Anambra State, where he consistently regarded public office and personal privilege as opportunities to improve the lives of others.

Mr Obi recalled that whenever individuals or organisations sought to honour him with expensive gifts or elaborate ceremonies, he encouraged them instead to channel such resources into projects with enduring public value.

“This approach has over the years resulted in the construction of schools, hostel blocks, educational support programmes, and other facilities that continue to benefit the less privileged.

“The greatest honour anyone can receive is not found in gifts, ceremonies, or public admiration, but in knowing that one’s life has contributed, however modestly, to making another person’s life better,” he said.

As part of his birthday activities, Mr Obi said he began the day with a mass of thanksgiving in Onitsha, where he expressed gratitude to Almighty God for His grace, protection, guidance, and blessings throughout his life.

Following the thanksgiving mass, he visited St. Raphael’s Hospital, Umueri, a rural healthcare facility in Anambra East Local Government Area where he donated ₦10 million to support the hospital’s efforts to provide quality healthcare to the people.

Reflecting on his visit to the hospital, Mr Obi said interacting with patients reminded him of the vulnerability shared by all humanity and reinforced the need for compassionate leadership.

He noted that many patients may lack the financial means to pay for their treatment but still deserved ignity, compassion, and access to quality healthcare.

“True leadership is demonstrated by caring for people, especially those who are unable to repay acts of kindness,” he said.

Mr Obi reaffirmed his belief that investments in healthcare and education remained among the most meaningful contributions anyone could make to society.

“A hospital preserves life; a school shapes the future and supporting both sectors is not merely an act of charity but a lasting investment in humanity and in the future of Nigeria ” he said.

 (NAN)