NIGERIA — Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate for the 2027 election, Peter Obi marked his 65th birthday on 19 July 2026, with supporters, political associates, business partners, friends and family celebrating the occasion through humanitarian activities, charitable initiatives and goodwill messages across Nigeria and on social media.
Several support groups, including members of the Obidient Movement and some supporters associated with the Kwankwasiyya Movement, organised community-focused activities to commemorate the former Anambra State governor’s birthday.
Among the initiatives was the distribution of free petrol to motorists by one of Obi’s supporters, who said the gesture was intended to celebrate the former presidential candidate while easing transport costs for motorists.
In Lagos, a team of medical professionals announced plans to provide 65 free adenotonsillectomy surgeries for children suffering from breathing difficulties.
The programme, organised in Surulere 1, was unveiled by Dr Folaseye, an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) surgeon, who described Obi as an inspiration.
According to the organisers, the surgeries will benefit children requiring the removal of enlarged adenoids and tonsils to improve breathing. They said the initiative aims to assist families unable to afford the procedure while improving the health and wellbeing of affected children.
Parents and guardians seeking to enrol their children were asked to contact the organisers through the telephone number provided in the announcement.
Birthday messages also poured in from political leaders, entertainers and public personalities.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar congratulated Obi, describing him as “my dear brother” and commending his commitment to public service and Nigeria’s democratic development. He wished Obi renewed strength, wisdom, good health and fulfilment in the years ahead.
Veteran entertainer and activist Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, praised Obi for inspiring many Nigerians to believe in the possibility of better governance. In a lengthy birthday message, he said Obi had encouraged a generation of young Nigerians to engage more actively in civic participation and governance.
Supporters also flooded social media with birthday wishes. Among them was Hon. Noah Ahmed, who expressed support for a proposed Peter Obi–Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso political alliance ahead of the 2027 general election while wishing Obi continued good health and blessings.
Award-winning Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie shared a personal tribute describing Obi as compassionate, humble and generous. Reflecting on their longstanding friendship, she recounted his support for her family following the death of her parents, his longstanding commitment to education and philanthropy, and his modest lifestyle.
Adichie concluded her message by expressing appreciation for Obi’s character and publicly stating her intention to support his presidential bid in the 2027 election.
The birthday celebrations extended beyond congratulatory messages, with supporters organising charitable outreach programmes in several locations, highlighting philanthropy and community service as key themes of the anniversary.
Peter Obi, who served as Governor of Anambra State from 2006 to 2014, remains one of Nigeria’s most prominent opposition figures and continues to attract significant grassroots support ahead of the 2027 general elections.
