Delta NGO gives scholarship with N800k yearly stipend to 13 indigent students

The Otemu Educational Foundation (OEF) has inducted the first beneficiaries of its merit scholarship for brilliant underprivileged students in Delta state.

The OEF, established by former Delta governor James Ibori, addressed the press on Friday.

A beneficiary induction programme was held on Thursday at the main auditorium of Western Delta University (WDU), Oghara.

It formally welcomed 13 exceptional scholars selected for the 2025/2026 academic session.

The scholars, the foundation stated, emerged from a rigorous four-stage screening process involving 475 shortlisted applicants.

Launched in November 2024, the OEF’s said it aims to sponsor indigent but deserving students across Delta state to pursue higher education.

Speaking at the event, Ibori, who is the chairman of the OEF board of trustees, said the foundation is anchored on the philosophy of empowerment through fairness.

“This is not charity. This is justice. This is equity. We are deliberately empowering those who have earned their place but lacked the means to claim it,” Ibori stated.

He further explained that the foundation recognises the vital role education plays in breaking the cycle of poverty and is committed to providing resources to talented students who would otherwise lack the financial means to pursue their academic dreams.

“By investing in these bright young minds, we are not only fostering individual growth but also empowering future leaders who will drive positive change in their communities and beyond,” he added.

The OEF, he said, scholarship is a full package.

Each scholar receives full tuition, accommodation, sundry fees, and a living stipend of N800,000 per academic year.

The beneficiaries are enrolled in diverse programmes at WDU, including computer science, business administration, mass communication, law, and environmental science.

The scholarship, according to programme coordinator Isioghene Maureen Eyikimi, also includes mentorship and personal development components.

She described the scheme as a “launchpad for leadership and service.”

“This scholarship is a lifeline and a loud affirmation that where you start in life should never determine how far you can go,” Eyikimi said.

Dignitaries at the ceremony included the WDU vice-chancellor, senior faculty members, community leaders, and media representatives.

The OEF plans to expand its scholarship coverage by 2026, with future cycles expected to include vocational and technical training tracks.