BY: HADIZA IBRAHIM NGULDE, JUNE 29, 2025/ 04:42PM
A philanthropist and founder of Margaret Lawrence University in Abuja, Dr. Paul Odili has announced plans to support the Nigerian military’s peace and welfare efforts.
During a visit to wounded troops receiving treatment at the Maimalari Cantonment Hospital in Maiduguri, Dr. Odili expressed a deep emotional connection to the armed forces.
He was accompanied on the visit by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa.
'Some people pay this sacrifice for us to have our businesses flourish in Abuja or other places in Nigeria,' Dr. Odili said.
He revealed that he had always dreamed of becoming a soldier, and although that never happened, he considers himself 'a soldier at heart.'
'I have come to see our wounded heroes, the people that have made this country safe for all of us. I had the opportunity to say thank you. I shook hands with 75 of them, and I'm grateful to God for that opportunity,' he said.
As part of his contributions, Dr. Odili pledged to build 3-bedroom homes for 20 of the most severely wounded soldiers who may not return to service.
'This year I am starting with 20 people, and next year I want it to be an annual event. When they leave the hospital, they should have a place they can call home,' he announced.
Dr. Odili also called on well-meaning Nigerians to join in providing support and housing for wounded veterans.
He disclosed plans to donate diagnostic equipment worth millions of Naira from a hospital he built in Delta State to the military medical services in Maiduguri.
While reacting, the CDS thanked and appreciated Dr. Odili for the support, calling on other Nigerians to emulate his example and support the military in the fight against insurgency.