By Demilade Adeniyi
The riverine town was thrown into a huge canvass of celebration as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Exploration and Production (NNPC E&P) and Natural Oilfield Services Limited (NOSL) offered scholarships to 345 students drawn from 15 higher institutions who are from Onna Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, as part of its initiative to give back to its host communities.
Included in the scholarship which took place at the Onna Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, are final year students and students with special needs.
Speaking at the event which took place at the Onna recently, the Base Manager, NOSL, Mr.Ubong Etti, said the scholarships are to help indigent students.
He said: “Students are our leaders and workforce of tomorrow, and nurturing their knowledge through a good educational system will help the communities in the long run.”
NNPC E&P and NOSL have continued to bridge the learning gap in host communities by encouraging students with scholarships.
In the quest to create sustainable communities, both companies strive to demonstrate their commitment to providing a holistic educational environment.
The students were urged to make judicious use of the scholarship and see it as a worthy investment in their future.
The Executive Chairman of Akwa Ibom State Universal Basic Education Board (AKSUBEB) Rt Hon. (Elder) Anietie Etuk, commended NNPCL’s Exploration and Production and Natural Oilfield Services Limited, for investing in the future of the state.
He said; “quality education helps to shape the future of our children. Creating a supportive and conducive learning environment for them will pave the way for a better life.”
He added that an education drive like this enlightens the students and encourages them to perform better.
Also distributed are 20 sets of dual desks to 10 schools in Onna LGA, Akwa Ibom.
The Chairman of Onna LGA – Hon. (Elder) Iniabasi Ekanem and a representative of the Paramount Ruler of Onna – Chief Robinson Inyang- Village Head of Ikwe, were present at the event.
Ekanem, said, “Financial stability comes with a strong educational background, and this event is important because it offers the much-needed support to the students to develop their skill sets and excel in life.”