Member representing the Ukwuano/Umuahia federal constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Obi Aguocha, has provided financial support to 317 students across various educational levels in the 2025 edition of his scholarship initiative.
The beneficiaries include 118 students from higher institutions, 70 from secondary schools, 65 from primary schools, and others from nursery schools.
In his address, Hon. Aguocha reaffirmed his commitment to education, describing it as “the greatest investment” any society can make. He reflected on the success of the program’s debut, which supported over 300 students, and pledged to expand its reach.
“Our goal is to impact up to 2,000 or even 5,000 constituents,” Aguocha said. “This initiative isn’t just about today; it’s about building the future of Ikwuano/Umuahia.”
The event drew accolades from dignitaries, including government officials, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders. In his speech, Hon. Austine Meregini, Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, praised Aguocha’s selfless dedication. Hon. Chinasa Abiola encouraged unselected applicants to remain hopeful, describing the initiative as “one of the best things to happen in the Ikwuano/Umuahia federal constituency.”
Mayor of Umuahia North, Hon. Smart Iheoma, described Aguocha as “a man who goes the extra mile for his people.” The former Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Aham Uko, commended the initiative’s transparent, merit-based selection process, which prioritizes students from indigent backgrounds.
Some beneficiaries expressed their gratitude for this great educational support initiative, describing it as a boost to their academic journeys and a life changing opportunity to ease their educational burdens.
In an interview with News Gazette Online, Hon. Aguocha reiterated his dream of empowering Ikwuano/Umuahia through quality education. He stated that the best empowerment one can give to any society is education, as an educated society is an empowered society—the vision behind the initiative.
“Providing food is temporary, but education empowers people for life. This is not a personal project; it’s a collective effort to build a better Abia.”
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Chief Dr. Sunny Ibeneme, who applauded Hon. Aguocha’s unwavering commitment to community development and welfare.
