Peter Obi’s Surprise Visit Inspires Dominican University Students

By Love Oyedokun

Former Presidential Candidate and Labour Party leader, Mr. Peter Obi, made a surprise visit to Dominican University Ibadan (Samonda Campus) this morning, donating ₦30 million to the institution and challenging Nigerian students to take control of their future. Obi, who has served as the university’s Pro-Chancellor for nearly a decade, delivered a powerful message about national survival and the need for a shift in mindset among the country’s youth.

Cablenews24 reports that arriving unannounced, Obi’s visit caught students off guard as they prepared for their examinations. His presence served as a “wake-up call,” urging them to recognize the critical role they play in shaping Nigeria’s future. The visit underscored Obi’s commitment to education and his belief in the potential of Nigerian youth.

Addressing the students and faculty, Obi didn’t shy away from highlighting the stark realities facing Nigeria. He pointed out the paradox of the nation remaining one of the world’s hungriest despite having 60% of its land uncultivated. He emphasized that the era of relying on international “globalization” is over, with the world now urging Africa to “go back home and develop” from the grassroots.

Obi attributed Nigeria’s struggles not to a lack of resources, but to a chronic deficit of competence, capacity, and compassion in leadership. He warned that the current levels of poverty and unemployment are unacceptable and would not be tolerated in other countries. His words served as a critique of the current political landscape and a call for a new generation of leaders.

Using clear examples, the former governor urged students to look toward agriculture as the “new oil.” He highlighted the success of the Netherlands, a country roughly the size of Niger State, which exports over $130 billion in agricultural products annually, three times what Nigeria earns from oil. He further contrasted the potential of the Sambisa area with Israel, which exports food despite having a landmass one-third the size of the forest.

“Development doesn’t come with tribe; it comes with knowledge,” Obi insisted, emphasizing that competent leadership is the only way to transform Nigeria’s vast resources into wealth. He stressed the importance of education and the need for leaders who are capable of making sound decisions and prioritizing the well-being of the nation.

The impact of Obi’s visit was immediate. The media team from CEO Africa was on-site to capture the shifting atmosphere on campus. One student, Segun, told CEOAfrica that seeing “Mr Peter” provided a vital mental shift during a stressful exam period, inspiring him to “go all out” to ensure academic excellence.

Professor Jacinta A. Opara, the Vice-Chancellor of Dominican University, expressed profound gratitude for the ₦30 million donation, which follows a previous ₦50 million grant. She noted that the visit had significantly boosted the spirits of both students and staff, reaffirming the university’s mission as a center of academic and moral excellence.

When questioned about the upcoming 2027 elections and how to guarantee a fair process, Obi directed the responsibility back to the youth: “It is you that will protect your vote, not me. It is our own country, but it is your future that is at stake.” He emphasized that the future of Nigeria rests in the hands of its youth and that they must actively participate in shaping the political landscape.

Obi concluded by urging a transition from a culture of consumption to one of production, insisting that the birth of a “New Nigeria” is a necessity that must begin within the classroom. He called for a fundamental shift in mindset, encouraging students to embrace innovation, entrepreneurship, and a commitment to building a better future for their country.

Speaking with other Students and Faculty at Dominican University in respect to Mr Peter Obi unannounced visit today, they were so happy for such a historic visit.

Mr Cosmos Akobundu, 400 level student of Philosophy was excited to discover that Mr Peter Obi, studied philosophy in his first degree. Listening to him today has changed my perception of our collective future; now, it is necessary for me to take my destiny in my hand for a new Nigeria.

Speaking with CEOAFRICA Winifred Ogwu, a 200 level Mass Communication student said “His presence and words of encouragement have prompted me to redouble my study efforts, especially at this examination period. I now know that I have a role in shaping the future of Nigeria.”

Jacinta Nwachukwu Nelson, a 400 level Mass Communication student said having heard him, I learnt that if I work hard, it is a way to take my destiny in my hands.

Fr Dr Augustine Agwulonu,OP an erudite scholar in the citadel of learning, said Mr Peter is indeed a leader, showing up unannounced is one of the qualities of a good leader; a very pleasant surprise for this Monday actually the beginning of the week, it is like a showers of blessings from heaven as the student begins their examination.

Fr Dr Emmanuel Ogu, OP, a University Leadership expert said that Mr Peter Obi’s unannounced visit represent for him a responsibility and humility.

Fr Francis Chiadi,OP Provincial Promoter, Dominican Family, Dominican Province of St Joseph the Worker (Nigeria and Ghana) posited that the visit is a catalyst for entrenching the culture of excellence among young students.

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