In a moving and inspirational ceremony attended by political leaders, academics, students, and media representatives, Engr. Christian Awowoh, MD/CEO of the Christian & Kate Awowoh Foundation, disbursed over N3 million in scholarships to 50 final-year students of Obanliku origin under the second edition of the Foundation’s Educational Scholarship Program.
Delivering his speech, Engr. Awowoh Christian recounted his personal journey, highlighting the sacrifices of his late uncle and supportive mother, as well as the pivotal moment when his uncle paid his first university tuition from a modest casual job. “This initiative is not driven by politics,” he affirmed. “It is a heartfelt effort to inspire and give back to society in the way I know best.”
Each beneficiary attending the Nigerian Law School received N100,000, while students from universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education received N50,000. Awowoh emphasised that the support was a “seed” and a “springboard” to encourage academic excellence amid the country’s current socio-economic challenges.
He also cautioned applicants to beware of fraudsters posing as intermediaries, reiterating that the scholarship process is entirely free, transparent, and merit-based. “Anyone asking for money is a fraud,” he warned.
Quoting African-American scholar W.E.B. Du Bois, Awowoh urged Nigerians to become the “willing majority” committed to rebuilding the nation through education, innovation, and integrity.
Chairman of the event, Dr. Aklah Kenn , commended Engr. Awowoh’s vision and generosity, encouraging students to make the most of the financial support.
Also speaking at the event, Chairman of the Programme Committee, Mr. Ashibi Thomas , urged beneficiaries to use the grants judiciously and serve as worthy ambassadors of the Foundation. He praised Engr. Awowoh’s gesture as a shining example of private-sector-driven social impact.
One of the beneficiaries, Ayuk Samuel (President of NAOS WW), who also received a scholarship from Dr. EG Amanke Ebunshua from his first year through final year as he was encouraged to pursue a degree in medicine upon completion of his current program, he described the scholarship as a pivotal boost to his academic journey. He expressed his gratitude and pledged to use the funds effectively.
The event featured speeches from dignitaries including Dr. EG Amanke, Commissioner, State Planning Commission; Ntunkae MT Ikwen, former Head of Service; Prof. Joe Ogbu, Prof. Magnus Anya, Prof. Mike Michael Ushie, Prof. Austine Ogogo, Hon. Boniface Erayeh, Dr. Christie Ushie,
Comr. Anafukang Kyrian, NYCN Obanliku Coordinator; Sam Evey, SA Due Process to Obanliku Chairman; Mr Clement E. Kayang, Banyi Ishagba, Obanliku Women’s Group; Several student associations, who all praised the initiative and encouraged students to use the support wisely.
© Sentrytimes News
