The Ndigbo Youth Parliament (NYP) has commended Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, for dispatching the second batch of Ebonyi youths to the United Kingdom on full postgraduate scholarships, pursuing Master’s and PhD programmes at top UK institutions, describing the initiative as a model of human capital development that Igbo youths across the region earnestly desire.
In a statement released to the media on Tuesday, the Hon. Speaker of the Ndigbo Youth Parliament, Rt. Hon. Rikki Nwajiofor, praised the governor’s sustained commitment to education and youth empowerment, which positions Ebonyi State as a leader in youth empowerment and development within the Southeast.
Rt. Hon. Nwajiofor emphasized that such focused investment in human capital development and global exposure represents the transformative leadership Ndigbo youths expect from governors and political office holders in Ala Igbo. The youth body urged the scholars to exhibit exemplary conduct, discipline, and integrity while abroad, serving as outstanding ambassadors of Ndigbo values such as hard work, resilience, and excellence. The complete text reads;
“Ndigbo Youth Parliament, under my leadership as the Hon. Speaker, sincerely appreciates and commends His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, for the successful dispatch of the second batch of Ebonyi youths to the United Kingdom on full postgraduate scholarships.
“This visionary initiative, which has seen another cohort of brilliant Ebonyi indigenes (approximately 98 beneficiaries in this phase) depart to pursue Master’s and PhD programmes in top UK institutions, demonstrates exemplary leadership and a deep commitment to human capital development. Governor Nwifuru’s administration continues to prioritize education and youth empowerment as cornerstones for sustainable progress.
“We reaffirm that this is precisely the kind of development Ndigbo youths yearn for and expect from our governors and political office holders across Ala Igbo. Investing in education, empowering the youth with global knowledge and skills, and fostering opportunities for advanced learning represent true progress and the pathway to collective advancement. Such gestures inspire hope!
“To the awardees of this second batch, we urge you to uphold the highest standards of conduct while abroad. Be exemplary in your behaviour, diligence, and discipline. Serve as outstanding Ambassadors of Ndigbo – projecting our rich cultural values of integrity, hard work, resilience, and excellence. Make Ebonyi State and the entire Igbo nation proud through your academic achievements.
“Above all, we encourage you to return home upon successful completion of your studies, equipped with world-class expertise, to join hands in the development of Ebonyi State in particular and Ala Igbo in general. Your contributions will be invaluable in driving innovation, economic growth, and societal transformation.
“The Ndigbo Youth Parliament stands in solidarity with Ebonyi State and commends Governor Nwifuru for this impactful programme. We pray for the safety, success, and triumphant return of all the scholars. We equally wish Governor Nwifuru more grace, wisdom, and strength to be the biblical Joshua of Ebonyi State! May Ala Igbo protect him!”
Governor Nwifuru, addressing the awardees at Chuba Okadigbo International Airport – Ezza, admonished them thus;
“As a father, I release you, our dear awardees, our dear students, our dear children today with love and prayer. As your governor, I send you forth with confidence and hope. I pray God to guide you on your journey, protect you in a foreign land, grant you excellence in your study, and bring you back home safely and triumphantly, amen. Go and make us proud. Go and prove that our sons and daughters, when given the opportunity can excel anywhere in the world.”
