Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has called for increased investment in healthcare and education, describing the two sectors as essential to Nigeria’s long-term development and economic progress.

Speaking during a visit to students of a healthcare institution, Obi encouraged them to pursue excellence and remain dedicated to serving humanity, noting that healthcare professionals play a vital role in improving lives.

“The world needs you more than you need the world because healthcare is one of humanity’s most fundamental needs,” he told the students.

Obi argued that nations that have achieved sustainable development did so by making deliberate investments in human capital, particularly through quality education and accessible healthcare, which he said directly improve citizens’ welfare and productivity.

He also expressed satisfaction with the progress made by the institution since his last visit, pointing specifically to the development of its computer laboratory, a project he had previously supported. According to him, the improvement demonstrates the impact of well-managed investments in education.

Drawing from his past interventions in the health sector, Obi referenced Iyi-Enu Mission Hospital and Borromeo Hospital, noting that both institutions had evolved into teaching hospitals following sustained support.

He said he hopes Holy Rosary Hospital will experience similar growth and eventually attain teaching hospital status.

The former presidential candidate stressed that Nigeria’s future depends on building strong institutions capable of producing skilled professionals, creating opportunities for young people and expanding access to quality healthcare and education.

He maintained that public resources should be channelled toward critical sectors that promote development and reduce poverty rather than being spent on projects with limited national impact.

“Our vision must be to build a Nigeria where functional institutions produce competent professionals, where investments are directed to critical sectors that lift people out of poverty, and where every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to succeed,” Obi said.

Reaffirming his message of merit, equal opportunity and inclusive development, he added that Nigeria should become a society where talent and hard work determine success rather than personal connections or privilege.

“That is how we will build a nation where the son of nobody can become somebody without knowing anybody,” he said.