Delta State Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme, has presented scholarship cheques worth more than N140 million to 683 beneficiaries under the Monday Onyeme Foundation Scholarship Scheme. The event, held in Asaba, marked a major milestone for the foundation, which Onyeme established in 2017 to support educational advancement in Delta North.
Supporters of the foundation, including Ngozi Okolie, Emeka Nwaobi, Charles Emetulu, Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, Bridget Anyafulu and Obi Nzete, also donated additional cash gifts ranging from N50,000 to N200,000 to the top-performing candidates.
Speaking at the ceremony, Onyeme said education remains the most effective tool for breaking the cycle of poverty. He explained that the initiative was created to ensure that no child in Ndokwa land or across Delta North is denied access to education because of financial challenges. “Today, we celebrate 683 bright minds who successfully passed the aptitude tests conducted in September. With this set, over 2,500 students have benefited from the scholarship since inception,” he said.
The Deputy Governor urged the beneficiaries to stay focused, maintain good character and give back to society when they become successful. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to human capital development under the MORE Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Onyeme also thanked parents, donors and partners who contributed millions of naira to support the programme, and commended the foundation’s team for their transparent and consistent work.
Chairman of the occasion, Victor Ochei, represented by Sir Vincent Ugbalase, praised Onyeme for sustaining the scholarship scheme and congratulated the recipients. In a goodwill message, the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof John Tonukari, represented by Dr Emoefe Okpimah, also commended the foundation and encouraged the students to pursue their studies with commitment.
The Vice-Chancellor of Dennis Osadebay University, Prof Ben Oghojafor, described the scholarship scheme as worthy of emulation and stressed the roles of parents and stakeholders in building a strong educational base for young people.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of cheques to top scorers from the three federal constituencies. In Aniocha/Oshimili, overall best performer Osemeke Deborah received N600,000. Divine Favour Onyekachi and Odogwu Chukwuka, who tied for second place, received N500,000 each, while Odega Uche and Samuel Emeke received N400,000 each.
Top candidates from Ika and Ndokwa/Ukwuani constituencies also received their cheques. Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the foundation and promised to work hard to justify the investment in their education.
