By Tony Okafor, Awka
Abatete town in Idemili North Local Government Area came alive on Sunday as former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, laid the foundation stone for a new boys’ hostel at Dominican Sisters’ College.
The well-attended ceremony drew applause from students, parents and parishioners, many of whom noted that Obi has been a consistent supporter of schools—donating generously to educational projects across Nigeria as part of his commitment to securing a brighter future for the nation’s children.
In his brief remarks, Obi reiterated his belief in education as the most critical tool for development, and called on other privileged Nigerians to support learning institutions.
“I have always said that education is the key. It is the greatest asset our young ones need to compete in a fast-changing world. Investing in them is a duty we owe as leaders and as citizens,” Obi said.
After the foundation-laying ceremony, a thanksgiving Mass was held at the Most Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church, Abatete, where the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Ernest Esikaikwu, preached on “The Power of Righteousness” and praised Obi for his commitment to the growth of Dominican Sisters’ College.
The pioneer Principal of the college, Rev. Sr. Mary-Pia Adesanya, recalled Obi’s previous interventions in the school and thanked him for funding the construction of a second boys’ hostel, which is expected to ease accommodation challenges for students.
The former governor also announced a donation of ₦25 million to support the hostel project.
In a reaction to the development, Mr. Valentine Obienyem described Obi’s passion for education as exemplary.
“One of the most memorable quotes often associated with Mr. Peter Obi is the timeless dictum of Socrates: ‘The unexamined life is not worth living.’
“Like Socrates, he founded no formal school, yet—again like that ancient master of dialogue—he makes the world his classroom. He walks into learning environments to engage, to question, to listen, and to shape young minds. I will be one of those to encourage him to retire into the classroom when the time comes,” Obienyem said.
According to him, Obi’s visit to Dominican Sisters’ College went beyond laying a foundation stone:“For those who understand his style, his presence is always purposeful, accompanied by words and deeds.
” Students and staff lined up in anticipation, welcoming not just Peter Obi, but a teacher in the Socratic sense—one who provokes thought, awakens responsibility, and believes that the future begins in the minds of the young.”
The new hostel, coupled with Obi’s continued advocacy for educational development, underscores his long-standing belief that quality education remains the foundation for national development.
