From Emmanuel Uzor, Awka
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, has donated N50 million to Shanahan University, Onitsha, noting that he was desperate to see Nigeria work.
Speaking at the Basilica of the Holy Trinity Cathedral, Onitsha, during the opening mass marking the commencement of academic activities in the new university, Obi said education remains the bedrock of every society.
He said most educational facilities and universities across the world were all started by the church, adding that education and health are the two important things that will last.
“Most of the universities across the world are started by the church and it’s so because in the universities that are run by the church, you have two things to learn, and the moral aspect of it is also very important. The world has only one currency which is knowledge. It’s not about the minerals you have; what will matter tomorrow is education and not minerals. Knowledge drives the world and I want you to take your education seriously.
He also donated N10 millions to St Charles Borromeo School of Nursing, Department of Midwifery, Waterside Onitsha, to boost infrastructure and other aspects of learning. The Archbishop of Onitsha Archdiocese, Most Rev Valerian Okeke, eulogised Obi for his belief in education and commended him for the donation.
Okeke gave the students free internet and unlimited access from now to January 2025 as well as free lunch during the occasion.
The Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Obi Oguejiofor described the university as a great institution. “We want the best for you and we want the greatness God has given to you to flower to fruition. Today is a very special day and it’s because we have our students already in school. We welcome them because it has taken a long time to prepare for their coming. Shanahan University, Onitsha, will be greater than all the universities.
Oguejiofor disclosed that the university sits on 18 hectares of land in 33 areas of Onitsha. He also said the university was building a 1500 capacity auditorium for the university, adding that over 200 have arrived while students’ tuition fees would be free.