The founder of Engineers and Planners, Ibrahim Mahama, has offered to fund former NSMQ ‘shark’, Ninwie Leonard Lanyeli’s education to enable him complete the doctor of optometry programme at KNUST.

Ibrahim Mahama, brother of former President Mahama, will also pay for extra psychiatric care so that ‘Dr’ Leonard’s health can be fully restored.

Rafik Mahama, aide to the Ghanaian businessman, told JoyNews’ Mahmud Mohammed-Nurudeen over the phone that ‘Dr’ Leonard would receive the greatest healthcare care available in the country.

He stated that after the psychiatric treatment, Leonard will be supported to finish the last two years of the six-year programme at KNUST. Leonard will also be sponsored to pursue postgraduate studies, either in Ghana or abroad, according to plans.

Earlier today, a relative of Leonard, Eugene Bawelle was at Mr. Ibrahim’s office to discuss the details of the support.

“They requested that we look for the best medical facility to provide Leonard the best care. As there is another offer from Ankaful, I informed them that I would first contact you,” Eugene said on phone.

Leonard’s Life

The story of the 33-year-old who had to discontinue his doctor of optometry education at KNUST due to Bipolar Disorder 2 was first published by myjoyonline.

But for his health issues in 2012, Leonard ought to have been a working optometrist like many of his school mates.

Ninwie Gladys, Leonard’s 60-year-old mother, stated that one of Leonard’s university friends took him to his home town and he returned with the condition.

Leonard was forced to take a break from his university studies in order to seek psychiatric attention at the Pantang Psychiatric Hospital in 2013. Doctors then diagnosed him with Bipolar Disorder 2.

Leonard later returned to the university in 2014 to continue his studies, but his stay was brief.

After a successful rehabilitation process, Leonard was re-admitted to the University and performed well during the end of semester exams. 

Leonard promised his mother when he was a child that he wanted to be a doctor. But that dream appears to have been dashed.

Leonard says he will return to school if the opportunity comes again.

Friends, family and colleagues believe Leonard was born great, and that greatness is still alive if he receives immediate intervention.