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By Lizzy Chirkpi
Abia State Governor Alex Otti has praised Chijioke James Ume, founder of the Unubiko Foundation, for awarding over ₦70 million in scholarships to hundreds of students across the State.
The commendation was delivered on Friday in Umuahia, the Abia State capital during the official presentation of scholarship grants to beneficiaries. The governor was represented at the event by the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Uche Eme Uche.
Addressing the students, Governor Otti urged them to maximise the opportunity for both personal advancement and societal development.
“This little candle that has been lit and handed over to you, please let it shine, let it glow, and try to hand it over to another person,” he said.
He further applauded Ume’s generosity and commitment to giving back to society.
“Chief James Ume has given you a future; he has given you hope. Don’t let it end with you,” he added.
In his remarks, Ume congratulated the beneficiaries and encouraged them to uphold the values of the foundation.
“I offer my warmest congratulations to our awardees, the true stars of today’s celebration. Your achievements mark the beginning of a promising future,” he said.
“You have demonstrated resilience, discipline, and a commitment to excellence. Today, you take your place as ambassadors of this great Foundation. As you step into the next chapter of your lives, remember that you carry with you values, knowledge, and skills that will shape not only your future but also the future of our society.”
Ume also expressed appreciation to the foundation’s Scholarship Board for establishing a strong framework for the initiative. He paid tribute to his wife, Ngozi James Ume, for her leadership and dedication.
“Our heartfelt gratitude goes to my wife, Mrs. Ngozi James Ume, Co-founder of the Unubiko Foundation, whose visionary leadership and steadfast commitment have been instrumental in the growth and development of this Foundation,” he said.
He further acknowledged the support of parents and benefactors for their sacrifices.
Other dignitaries at the event included the Special Assistant to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma; the member representing Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, Ibe Okwara; and the member representing Arochukwu State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Uchenna Okoro.
The scholarship programme, valued at over ₦70 million, will run alongside other existing initiatives previously implemented by the foundation across Nigeria. Beneficiaries officially received their grants during the ceremony held in Umuahia, the Abia State capital.