Otemu Foundation: Giving the underprivileged a voice through education

In a nation where access to education is beyond the reach of the poor and often depends on privilege or political connection, the Otemu Educational Foundation (OEF) has reminded us that fairness and merit can still prevail. Its recent induction of 13 scholarship beneficiaries for the 2025/2026 academic session represents more than an act of charity—it is an act of justice.

Out of 475 applicants, only 13 outstanding students made it through a rigorous four-stage screening process conducted by thoroughbred professionals. There was no political patronage, no favouritism—just merit, transparency, and opportunity.

The OEF, founded by former Delta state governor, James Onanefe Ibori, in November 2024, provides full tuition, accommodation, sundry fees, and a living stipend of ₦800,000 per academic year for successful students. The Foundation’s vision is simple but powerful: to support brilliant but indigent students across Delta State and beyond.

At the induction ceremony held at Western Delta University (WDU), Oghara, Chief Ibori captured the essence of this mission with clarity and conviction:

“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.”

He went on to shed light on the deeper philosophy behind the Foundation’s creation:

“We recognise the vital role education plays in breaking the cycle of poverty, and our foundation is committed to providing scholarships and 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. We believe that education is the cornerstone of progress and development. Our goal is to create an environment where every student, regardless of socio-economic background, has access to quality education and the resources needed to succeed.”

Those words are not mere rhetoric—they are a call to conscience. Education remains the most powerful tool for liberation. When you educate a child from a poor home, you do more than pay school fees; you give them the confidence to dream, the courage to build, and the capacity to contribute meaningfully to society.

Programme coordinator, Isioghene Maureen Eyikimi, described the OEF scheme as “a launchpad for leadership and service,” noting that it also includes mentorship and personal development opportunities for scholars.

This first batch of beneficiaries is only the beginning. The Foundation has announced plans to expand its reach in subsequent years, including vocational and technical training for young Nigerians who wish to pursue skill-based careers.

But this initiative should not stand alone. The federal government, state governments, corporate bodies, and well-meaning Nigerians should partner with the Otemu Foundation—and, if possible, replicate this laudable model across the country.

In Nigeria today, too many social programmes and reality shows exist in name only, consuming billions but yielding little real impact and adding no value to lives of youths. If such funds were redirected into transparent, merit-based educational initiatives like OEFs, Nigeria would produce not just graduates, but capable leaders and innovators.

Chief Ibori and the Otemu Educational Foundation have done well. They have demonstrated that empowerment, when rooted in fairness and integrity, transforms both lives and communities.

Because at the end of the day, education remains the best gift you can give a poor person—it liberates the mind, ignites purpose, and builds a nation. The Otemu Foundation has shown the way. Others should follow.

Akinsuyi, former group politics editor of Daily Independent, writes from the United Kingdom