Our Reporter, Abuja
Former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has commended Evangelist Ebuka Obi for establishing the Seraphic Psychiatric and Old People’s Home in Aguleri, Anambra State.
Obi described the initiative as “a noble project that reflects deep compassion and a commitment to serving humanity,” noting that its timing was particularly significant given Nigeria’s growing mental health crisis.
Citing a recent World Health Organisation (WHO) report that over 20 million Nigerians are battling mental health challenges linked to economic hardship and stress, Obi said the facility would provide much-needed relief.
“As Governor of Anambra State, I paid attention to mental health by investing in the Nawfia Psychiatric Hospital, providing modern buildings and equipment. Some may wrongly argue that building psychiatric hospitals means a state breeds mad people, but that is a misconception,” he stated.
“Across the world, mental health is treated with utmost seriousness, and any society that genuinely cares for its people must invest in it.”
The former governor also stressed the importance of tackling substance abuse among youths, suggesting that schools organise excursions to psychiatric facilities to expose students to the consequences of drug abuse as a deterrent measure.
On the elderly care component of the project, Obi said it was a demonstration of dignity and responsibility.
“In a society where the elderly are often neglected, this initiative restores respect to those who once laboured for us. Looking after our elderly is not just an act of charity but a moral duty, and a true measure of our humanity,” he added.
Obi thanked Evangelist Obi for his “unwavering commitment to a better Nigeria,” urging greater attention to mental health and elderly welfare across the country.
