The Hungarian Secretary of State, Dr. Tristan Azbej, has officially commissioned a newly built six-floor structure at the College of Nursing Sciences, St. Charles Borromeo Specialist Hospital, in the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha. The project, donated by the Hungarian Government through the Hungarian Helps Agency, is part of Hungary’s commitment to supporting healthcare, education, and the empowerment of underprivileged communities.
Dr. Azbej, alongside Hungarian Ambassador to Nigeria Dr. Lóránd Endreffy and Deputy Head of Mission Kristóf Kőrősi, attended the commissioning ceremony in Onitsha. During his address, Azbej explained that the structure was a gift inspired by the efforts of Dr. Reka Fodor, a Hungarian missionary, who alerted them to the needs of the nursing college. He emphasized that Hungary’s involvement goes beyond financial support, reflecting a deep sense of solidarity and mutual respect.
“I deeply respect Onitsha’s traditions and its commitment to progress,” Azbej said, expressing gratitude for the warm welcome extended to his delegation.
Archbishop Valerian Okeke, the proprietor of the college, expressed heartfelt thanks to the Hungarian government for their generosity. He noted that the donation would have a lasting impact on the education and healthcare sectors within the archdiocese and beyond.
Rev. Fr. Fidelis Nwanze, the Nursing College administrator, referred to the donation as a “prayer answered,” highlighting the significant boost it would provide to the college’s mission of offering holistic education and promoting self-reliance among its students.
The Hungarian delegation was also received by Obi Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha, at his palace. Obi Achebe praised the Hungarian support and described Onitsha as a peaceful city, rich in history and home to key Nigerian figures like the country’s first President, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. He also acknowledged the significant achievements of Archbishop Okeke, particularly in the fields of education and healthcare.
Before the Onitsha visit, the Hungarian delegation had met with Governor Charles Soludo at the Governor’s Lodge in Awka.
