The African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Ebonyi Central Senatorial District, Dr. Ugo Magnus, has awarded scholarships to more than 200 indigent students from Ebonyi Central as part of efforts to improve access to education and promote human capital development in the state.
The scholarships were presented during the 7th Annual Public Lecture and Scholarship Programme organised by the Ugo Magnus Foundation at Ryan Hotel and Suites in Abakaliki.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Magnus described education as the most effective tool for sustainable development, reaffirming his commitment to empowering young people through quality education.
He explained that the beneficiaries were selected from the four local government areas that make up Ebonyi Central Senatorial District—Ikwo, Ezza South, Ezza North, and Ishielu—adding that the initiative was designed to build a more prosperous Ebonyi by investing in its future leaders.
According to him, the scholarship programme has been sustained for over seven years and is driven by a long-standing passion for education rather than political ambition.
“The only way to truly empower our people is through education. When you educate an individual, you equip them to transform their lives, uplift others, and contribute positively to society,” he said.
Dr. Magnus disclosed that the current phase of the programme would support 200 students, who would be admitted in batches into partner institutions. While he did not reveal the exact amount invested, he noted that the initiative is worth hundreds of millions of naira, covering tuition fees and other approved academic expenses.
He stressed that the scholarship scheme is aimed at reducing the number of out-of-school children and producing future professionals, entrepreneurs, public servants, and leaders who will contribute to Ebonyi State’s development.
The ADC senatorial hopeful also revealed that more than 500 students across Nigeria have benefited from similar educational interventions through partnerships with different foundations.
He encouraged well-meaning Nigerians to invest in education, noting that lasting community development depends on deliberate investments in human capital.
“When you empower others, they become empowered to lift more people. That is how communities and nations grow,” he added.
Speaking at the event, the Ebonyi State ADC Chairman, Dr. Jennifer Adibe-Nwafor, commended Dr. Magnus for sustaining the scholarship programme for seven consecutive years.
She maintained that the initiative began long before his senatorial ambition and should not be viewed as an election campaign strategy.
According to her, the scholarship covers tuition and other approved academic costs throughout the beneficiaries’ period of study.
She urged the students to remain focused on their academics, exhibit good character, and make the most of the opportunity.
“This scholarship is more than financial support; it is a responsibility. Pursue excellence, uphold integrity, and extend the same kindness to others when you succeed,” she advised.
Adibe-Nwafor also praised the Ugo Magnus Foundation and its partner institutions for conducting what she described as a transparent selection process.
Also speaking, the Founder of South Atlantic University, Uyo, Pastor Bassey James, applauded Dr. Magnus for his commitment to expanding educational opportunities.
He announced the university’s willingness to partner with the Ugo Magnus Foundation to increase access to quality higher education.
Pastor James encouraged the beneficiaries to take advantage of the scholarship by developing practical skills, innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurial abilities that will prepare them for national development.
The event attracted political leaders, traditional rulers, academics, business executives, party supporters, and community stakeholders from across Ebonyi State.
Some of the beneficiaries, including Oluchi Mgbebu, Favour Nwonuchukwu (Ikwo LGA), Abia Ezzinne (Ishielu LGA), and Chibuike (Ezza North LGA), expressed gratitude to the Ugo Magnus Foundation for the opportunity.
They pledged to excel academically and make their families and benefactors proud.
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