The Niger Delta Development Commission has started checking on the progress and well-being of students in the UK who are part of its Foreign Post Graduate Scholarship program.
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, the NDDC Managing Director, emphasized the importance of evaluating the performance and welfare of the students while meeting with them at Coventry University in the UK.
This information was shared in a press statement released in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, on Friday by the NDDC Director, Corporate Affairs, Pius Ughakpoteni.
The NDDC team, led by Ogbuku, also included Alabo Iyaye, the Executive Director of Finance and Administration; Ifedayo Abegunde, the Executive Director of Corporate Services; Dr. George Uzonwanne, the Director of Education Health and Social Services; as well as Mr. Davies Okarevu, the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics.
Ogbuku urged the students to represent the Niger Delta region well and assured them that the agency would work to address any difficulties they may face.
He stated, “We did not send you here to suffer or to punish you. We sent you here so that your lives will be better and you can add value to society.
It was felt necessary to visit the students and address their challenges. The agency is committed to ensuring their comfort, and in return, the students are expected to act as positive representatives.
The NDDC hopes to see one of its scholarship recipients become the top graduating student at the school, as Nigerian students abroad are among the brightest worldwide.
Ogbuku also emphasized the NDDC's commitment to human capital development programs and its efforts to enhance investments in education to create job opportunities for youths.
Ogbuku mentioned that the NDDC delegation would visit five other universities in the UK to secure agreements and partnerships for the commission's scholars, ensuring they have access to accommodation until their tuition and boarding fees are covered.
The NDDC boss stressed that all scholarship recipients are expected to return to Nigeria after completing their studies, as the commission does not support using the scholarship as a way to seek better opportunities outside the country.
Ogbuku noted that the NDDC’s focus on creating value demonstrates its commitment to maximizing the impact of its scholarship program.
He stated, “By promoting excellence and local knowledge transfer, the NDDC is ensuring that the skills and expertise gained by scholarship recipients will drive lasting progress for the entire Niger Delta region.
