Mr. Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State, made a significant financial commitment today during the centenary celebration of the Holy Rosary Sisters, an order founded in 1924 by Bishop Joseph Shanahan. The event, held at the Holy Rosary College in Nsugbe, commemorated both the 100th anniversary of the Sisters’ foundation and the 10th anniversary of the college, which Obi himself inaugurated in 2013.
The former governor attended a special Mass at the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity in Onitsha, where the Holy Rosary Sisters, alongside their supporters and well-wishers, gathered to reflect on their century of contributions to education and healthcare in Nigeria. In his address, Obi praised the Sisters for their enduring commitment to these sectors, recognizing the critical role they play in nation-building. He encouraged the Sisters to maintain their service to humanity, transcending divisions of creed or social standing.
At the Holy Rosary College in Nsugbe, Obi demonstrated his ongoing support for education and healthcare by pledging ₦120 million to the Sisters’ headquarters in Enugu and the Nsugbe institution. Of the total donation, ₦100 million will bolster the Sisters' educational and healthcare outreach programs, while ₦20 million will support the college in Nsugbe, fulfilling a promise made during his tenure as governor. Obi assured that the entire pledge will be redeemed within two years.
In his speech, Obi highlighted the Sisters’ pivotal role in nurturing future generations, emphasizing the importance of quality education and compassionate healthcare as cornerstones for national progress. He described the Holy Rosary Sisters as "pillars of progress and development" whose impact has been felt across Nigeria for decades.
The Chaplain of the Holy Rosary College, Rev. Fr. James Okafor, spoke during the event, lauding the Sisters for their selfless dedication over the past century. He urged the students to emulate the values of hard work, discipline, and service exemplified by the Sisters. He also called on privileged individuals to follow Obi’s example of giving back to society.
Sr. Ifeyinwa Muoegbunam, the Regional Leader of the Holy Rosary Sisters, alongside the principal of the school, Sr. Oluchi Nnolim, expressed their deep gratitude to Obi for his continuous support. They fondly recalled his role in laying the foundation of the school in 2013 and praised his consistent assistance in the years since.
Obi’s gesture at the centenary celebration reflects his broader vision of improving education and healthcare in Nigeria, demonstrating a commitment that extends beyond his time in public office. The ceremony concluded with prayers for the continued success of the Holy Rosary Sisters and the future generations of students who will benefit from their invaluable work.
