Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State and the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, has voiced his support for professionals, including nurses, seeking better opportunities abroad.

Obi made these remarks during a visit to St. Charles Borromeo College of Nursing and Midwifery in Onitsha, where he donated funds to support the institution’s growth.

Speaking to students and staff at the college, Obi emphasized the importance of education and healthcare as key drivers for the future.

According to him, these sectors are the “currencies” with which individuals and nations will operate in the coming years.

Instead of discouraging professionals from leaving the country for greener pastures, Obi believes the government should focus on developing the country’s human capital.

“With over 200 million people in Nigeria, we should not be stopping anyone from pursuing opportunities abroad,” Obi said.

“We must concentrate on equipping our citizens with the necessary skills and education.

Those who wish to stay can contribute locally, and those who leave can support the country through foreign remittances, which are a valuable source of revenue.”

Obi also expressed concern over the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria’s attempts to prevent professionals from emigrating, urging the organization to reconsider.

He highlighted that trained nurses and other professionals are in high demand across the globe, and allowing them to move freely benefits not only the individuals but also the country as a whole.

In his speech, Obi stressed that his donations to institutions like St. Charles Borromeo College of Nursing and Midwifery are part of a broader vision to invest in the youth and Nigeria’s future.

“This isn’t charity,” he explained. “It’s an investment in you.

The future of our nation relies on knowledge and health.

By supporting your education, we are ensuring that you can compete globally and become valuable assets wherever you are.”

Obi underscored the importance of continuous support for the education and health sectors, drawing attention to the critical role they play in national development.

He acknowledged that while some leaders may focus on personal accolades, his priority remains on empowering the next generation through education.

“My children won’t attend this institution, and I could easily spend my money adding more chieftaincy titles to my name.

But that isn’t the path to developing a sustainable future,” Obi added. “I believe in creating opportunities for others, and that’s why I’m committed to supporting educational institutions across the country.”

Obi also revealed his plans to visit other institutions, including the College of Nursing in Anyingba, Kogi State, where he intends to help them secure accreditation.

He described this initiative as part of his larger mission to ensure that Nigeria produces more qualified professionals who can contribute both locally and internationally.

The former governor’s stance on migration and professional development comes at a time when many Nigerian professionals are seeking better opportunities abroad due to economic challenges at home.

Obi’s vision of encouraging diaspora remittances and building a skilled workforce underscores his belief that Nigeria’s future prosperity lies in investing in its people.

Obi’s commitment to education and health has been a consistent theme throughout his political career, as he often champions initiatives that prioritize the welfare of the youth and the development of the country’s human capital.

His recent donations to various institutions further demonstrate his hands-on approach to fostering growth and progress in Nigeria.