By Our Reporter
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi, has blamed Nigeria’s underdevelopment on the government’s failure to invest in education — the real engine of national growth.
Obi made the statement during a visit to St. John Vienney Science College, Ukwulu, Anambra State, where he celebrated the school’s recent international science victory in a competition held in June 2025.
“The biggest asset of any nation is its people — human capital. And the most meaningful investment is in education,” Obi told the cheering students and staff.
He stressed that no nation can develop without prioritizing learning:“If oil made a country rich, Venezuela would be the richest in the world. They have ten times more oil than Nigeria. But it’s not about oil — it’s about knowledge!”
In a gesture of support, Obi presented a ₦10 million cheque to the school, commending the students for their brilliance and focus.
He urged them to continue working hard, saying:“Education is the only sure way to become great and outstanding in life.”
Obi also criticized various governments for neglecting vital sectors:
“We can’t build power, rails, or anything else if we don’t first build people. That’s where we’ve failed.”
He praised the school’s proprietor, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Obimma, for doing what government should be doing.
“This is the problem with Nigeria — our leaders are too busy celebrating, consuming, and wasting everyone’s time!”
Fr. Obimma, visibly moved, thanked Obi for his unrelenting support for education.
“We thank God for people like His Excellency, Mr Peter Obi. I may not have much, but I believe in investing in humanity. And with support like this, our vision is coming to life.”
The excited students gave a heartfelt vote of thanks, praising Obi’s enduring love for education and wisdom-driven philanthropy.
St. John Vienney Science College beat top schools from Nigeria and the UK to win the prestigious prize at the competition jointly organized by ‘Bring It On Africa’ and ‘Debate Mate UK’. The initiative promotes cross-cultural dialogue and sharpens students’ critical thinking and oratory skills.
The students said Obi’s support has inspired them to go even harder as they prepare for the next challenge coming up in December 2025.
