Gov. Nwifuru Reaffirms Commitment to Human Capital Development, Flags Off Second Batch of Overseas Scholarship Scheme

Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to human capital development with the flag-off of the second batch of the state’s overseas scholarship programme for outstanding students.

The governor spoke at the send-off ceremony held at the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport, Onueke, where he described the initiative as more than a journey abroad, noting that it symbolises “destiny taking flight” and hope soaring into the future for Ebonyi State.

Governor Nwifuru said each beneficiary represents a dream deliberately chosen and protected by his administration, stressing that the scholarship scheme remains one of the most financially demanding programmes of the government, second only to major investments in infrastructure and public welfare. He revealed that despite pressure from various quarters to divert the funds to rural infrastructure projects, his administration made a conscious decision to prioritise education, insisting that no society can rise above the quality of its human capital. “As you leave the shores of Nigeria, know that this decision is not accidental. It is rooted in our People’s Charter of Needs, where human capital development ranks as a top priority,” the governor said.

He urged the beneficiaries to exhibit good conduct, discipline and diligence, reminding them that every naira expended on the scholarship belongs to the people of Ebonyi State, including farmers, civil servants and artisans. Governor Nwifuru further charged the students to serve as worthy ambassadors of the state and avoid any act capable of bringing shame to their families and Ebonyi State. “As a father, I release you today with love and prayers. As your governor, I send you forth with confidence and hope. Go and make us proud,” he added.

Lending his voice, the founder, C-Saga Foundation, Engr. Christian Asaga Nwali applauded the state governor for his approach in human capacity development and urged other stakeholders to emulate the gesture for the interest of the state.

Earlier, Chairman of the Ebonyi State Scholarship Board, Mr. Chaka Nweze, described the programme as the brainchild of Governor Nwifuru, with strong emphasis on Science, Engineering and Mathematics. Mr. Nweze disclosed that out of the ninety beneficiaries, forty-seven would be departing immediately, while the remaining forty-three would leave as soon as visa issues caused by delays from the issuing authority are resolved, adding that all payments for the students have already been made.

He noted that beneficiaries of the first batch have begun to record positive results, expressing optimism that the second batch would equally excel. Also speaking, Senator Sunny Ogbuorji commended the governor for investing in education, describing it as the most sustainable form of development. He noted that although returns on human capital development may not be immediate, they remain enduring. Similarly, Senator Chris Nwankwo, representing Ebonyi North, and Ambassador Franklin Ogbuewu, representing Ebonyi Central, praised the governor for prioritising youth development and urged the beneficiaries to remain focused and return home to contribute meaningfully to the state’s growth. Our correspondent reports that one of the beneficiaries, Mr. Magnus Uneke, who will be studying at the University of Lincoln, expressed gratitude to Governor Nwifuru and assured that the students would be good ambassadors of Ebonyi State. If you want this adapted for radio bulletin, shortened, or given a more dramatic headline, just say the word.