The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, on Saturday presided over the presentation of cheques to 683 successful beneficiaries of the 2025 Monday Onyeme Foundation Scholarship Scheme, announcing a total disbursement exceeding N140 million for Year 2025.
The event, held in Asaba, marked a significant milestone for the foundation, which Sir Onyeme established in 2017.
In order to encourage the students in their academic career, supporters of the foundation who were physically present at the occasion including Hon. Ngozi Okolie, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, Hon. Charles Emetulu, Hon. Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, Hon. Bridget Anyafulu, Hon. Obi Nzete, amongst others gave cash gifts ranging from N50,000, to N200,000 to each of the top scorers declared at the occasion.
Speaking at the occasion, the Deputy Governor stated that the scheme which started in 2017 was “driven by a deep conviction that education is the most potent weapon against poverty,
“This annual ceremony is not just about issuing out cheques to undergraduates who emerged successful at the aptitude test conducted by the Monday Onyeme Foundation, but about writing new chapters in the lives of our future leaders.
“The goal was simple, yet, ambitious; to ensure that no child in Ndokwa land now, Delta North is denied access to quality education simply because of their financial circumstances.
“Today, we stand here celebrating a significant milestone; 683 bright minds who successfully passed the aptitude tests conducted in the month of September are receiving their cheques today, the total number of students who have benefited from this scholarship has soared to over 2,500 persons.
“This is not a political statistic; it is a tangible testament to the power of commitment and compassion in governance.
“Every single beneficiary represents a family lifted and a community empowered.
“To the 683 young men and women receiving this assistance today, I offer my hearty congratulations; you have earned this through dedication and hard work.
“Let this scholarship be more than just a financial aid; let it be a catalyst for excellence. I charge you, therefore, with three critical responsibilities:
Be Focused: The primary purpose of this support is to see you succeed academically. Shun distractions and prioritize your studies. Delta State is investing in your minds, and we expect excellent returns.
Be Good Ambassadors: Carry yourselves with dignity. Be known for character, innovation, and positive citizenship both within your institutions and in your communities.
Be Grateful and Give Back: Remember the hand that lifted you. Your success story must become the blueprint for future generations. Resolve today that when you are established, you will, in turn, lift others.
”We are all aware that the administration of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori through the MORE Agenda remains unwavering in its commitment to human capital development.
“This scholarship scheme is an integral part of our broader vision for a prosperous Delta, built on the foundations of knowledge and skill.
“We will continue to support initiatives that empower our youth, promote vocational training, and create an enabling environment for economic prosperity. Your success is our ultimate measure of achievement.
”To the parents and guardians, thank you for nurturing these brilliant children and to our partners who have made contributions running into several millions of Naira, which made it possible for us to be giving out cheques today worth more than N140 million, thank you; it because of your belief that collectively, we can make the difference in the life of our children.
“To the team at the Foundation, I appreciate your meticulous and transparent work.
“We look forward to hearing great things from you all; go forth, study hard, and make Delta North, Delta State, and Nigeria proud!”
Chairman of the occasion, Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei represented by Sir Vincent Ugbalase, thanked the Deputy Governor for the initiative, and congratulated the beneficiaries.
In a good will message, the Hon. Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. John Tonukari, represented by Dr. Emoefe Okpimah, commended the Monday Onyeme foundation scholarship scheme and call on student to pursue their educational career diligently, adding that education is not a scam.
The Vice Chancellor, Dennis Osadebay University, Prof. Ben Oghojafor represented by Prof. Chukwuji C.O, noted that the scholarship scheme of the foundation is worthy of emulation.
He said that, it is a collective responsibility of parents and relevant stakeholders to ensure that the teaming youths are given sound foundation.
Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, Hon. Barry Gbe among others also in their good will messages, commended the Deputy Governor for his initiative in giving back to the society through the foundation.
They urged the students to avail themselves of the opportunity and live up to expectation by doing well in the studies.
Earlier, in a welcome address, the Coordinator, Monday Onyeme Foundation, Mr. Leo Ubuane, noted that since its establishment in 2017, the foundation has remained committed to supporting educational development across Delta North.
Highpoint of the occasion was the presentation of cheques by the Delta State Deputy Governor to the top scorers from the three federal constituencies which includes, Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency:
Osemeke Deborah as the overall top scorers received a cheque of N600,000, Divine Favour Onyekachi and Odogwu Chukwuka, 2nd position, received a cheque of N500, 000 each, Odega Uche and Samuel Emeke, 3rd position received a cheque of N400,000 each.
Also the 6 top scores from Ika federal constituency and the 4 top scorers from Ndokwa/Ukwuani federal constituency also received their cheques.
The top scorers amidst cheers were showered with cash gifts by dignitaries who attended the ceremony.
