The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, has stated his support for professionals, including nurses, who are looking for better opportunities overseas.
Obi contends that medical professionals with training should not be dissuaded from seeking better opportunities elsewhere.
During a speech at an event where he gave N20 million to Shanahan University and N50 million to St. Charles Borromeo College of Nursing and Midwifery in Onitsha, Obi emphasized the value of investing in education and healthcare as vital future investments.
Obi disagreed with the idea of a “brain drain,” pointing out that there are more than 200 million people living in Nigeria.
In addition to advocating for increased professional training, he proposed that the country could generate income from the remittances sent home by its diaspora.
He assured students that because nursing and midwifery skills are in high demand globally, investing in their education and career would ensure their success.
Whether they decide to stay in Nigeria or go abroad, he also emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for them.
“Let us educate our 200 million people,” he said. Those who wish to stay should stay, and those who wish to go should go. Remittances from the diaspora are another way to generate income.
“We want to improve everyone’s quality of life, so if you see me trying to raise money, it is not for anything. I have come here to give you a donation.
“My children will not attend Shanahan University, and while I could sit here and use the money to increase my chieftaincy, that is not how the future is going to be built.
“Tomorrow, I will be at the College of Nursing in Anyingba. They require my help to obtain accreditation, and I will be there to support them in order to get.”
