Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, on Saturday disbursed over N140 million to 683 beneficiaries of the 2025 Monday Onyeme Foundation Scholarship Scheme during a cheque presentation ceremony held in Asaba.
The event marked another milestone for the foundation, which Sir Onyeme established in 2017 to expand access to education for indigent students across Delta North.
Dignitaries present—including Hon. Ngozi Okolie, Hon. Emeka Nwaobi, Hon. Charles Emetulu, Hon. Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, Hon. Bridget Anyafulu, and Hon. Obi Nzete—boosted the celebration by presenting cash gifts ranging from N50,000 to N200,000 to the top scorers.
In his remarks, the Deputy Governor said the scholarship was born out of a conviction that “education is the most potent weapon against poverty.” He noted that the initiative has now supported over 2,500 students since its inception.
“This ceremony is not just about issuing cheques but about writing new chapters in the lives of our future leaders,” Onyeme said. He emphasized that the goal was to ensure that no child in Delta North is denied education due to financial hardship.
Addressing the beneficiaries, he urged them to remain focused, serve as good ambassadors, and make a commitment to give back to society when they become established.
Onyeme reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to human capital development, noting that the MORE Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori prioritizes educational empowerment and youth development. He appreciated parents, partners, and the foundation’s team for their support and contributions.
Chairman of the occasion, Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, represented by Sir Vincent Ugbalase, praised the Deputy Governor for sustaining a life-changing initiative and congratulated the beneficiaries.
In his goodwill message, the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof. John Tonukari—represented by Dr. Emoefe Okpimah—commended the foundation and urged students to remain steadfast in their studies, stressing that “education is not a scam.”
Vice Chancellor of Dennis Osadebay University, Prof. Ben Oghojafor, who was represented by Prof. Chukwuji C.O, also applauded the scheme, describing it as worthy of emulation. He called on parents and stakeholders to continue supporting the educational pursuits of young people.
Other dignitaries, including Hon. Emeka Nwaobi and Hon. Barry Gbe, saluted Onyeme’s commitment to giving back to society and encouraged the beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunity.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Coordinator of the foundation, Mr. Leo Ubuane, highlighted the foundation’s consistent efforts since 2017 in supporting educational development across Delta North.
The highpoint of the ceremony was the presentation of cheques to top scorers across the federal constituencies. In Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, overall best candidate Osemeke Deborah received N600,000, while Divine Favour Onyekachi and Odogwu Chukwuka (2nd position) received N500,000 each. Odega Uche and Samuel Emeke (3rd position) took home N400,000 apiece.
Top performers from Ika and Ndokwa/Ukwuani federal constituencies also received their cheques amid cheers and additional cash rewards from dignitaries.