Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, extended his congratulations to Nigerian Uzoma Asagwara on her inauguration as the Health minister in the province of Manitoba, Canada. Asagwara also holds the position of Deputy Premier in the province.

Through a series of tweets posted on Sunday via his X (formerly Twitter) profile, the former Governor of Anambra State attributed Asagwara’s achievements to her diligence and commitment to her duties.

The tweet stated, “The swearing-in of a young Nigerian, Uzoma Chioma Asagwara, as the new Health Minister and Deputy Premier of the Province of Manitoba in Canada, was heartwarming. The uplifting report again, buttresses the resourceful spirit of Nigerians.

“According to the report, Asagwara was the first black individual to achieve this position in Manitoba. I sincerely congratulate her for achieving this feat, which can only be earned through hard work, commitment and dedication to duty.”

Obi said that Asagwara is a model of hard work to the Nigerian youths. adding that he believes in the ” greatness and infinite resourcefulness of the Nigerian people .”

“She serves as a lesson in hard work to millions of Nigerian youth. I wish her success in her new position and encourage her to continue to pursue societal progress both in Canada and our country, Nigeria,” he said.

Obi advocated for a “progressive leadership” that would inspire the nation’s youths to succeed.

“Just like Asagwara, many resourceful Nigerian youths will attain greater heights in their chosen fields of endeavour, in the New Nigeria,” the tweet concluded.

Born in 1984, Asagwara is a former professional basketball player. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychiatric Nursing from the University of Winnipeg and Brandon University in Canada.

Raised by Nigerian parents from Umuahia, Abia State, this 35-year-old individual holds the distinction of being the first black queer person to secure a seat in the Manitoba Legislative Assembly in Canada.