Ebonyi Govt. Sponsors 92 More Indigenes for Postgraduate Studies in Europe

By Nabob Ogbonna, Abakaliki

The Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has approved scholarships for an additional 92 Ebonyi indigenes to pursue postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom.
The beneficiaries were on Monday airlifted to the UK to commence their postgraduate programmes abroad, marking another milestone in the revitalisation of the state’s overseas scholarship scheme under the present administration.

The departure ceremony took place at the Chuba Okadigbo International Airport, Onueke, Ezza South Local Government Area of the state.

This development represents the second major phase of the scholarship programme reactivated by Governor Nwifuru’s administration.

Earlier in 2025, a total of 285 Ebonyi indigenes were similarly sponsored to various European countries for postgraduate studies.

Investigations by Insideoutnews revealed that many beneficiaries who initially travelled for master’s degree programmes have since completed their studies and, with the support of the state government, proceeded to pursue doctoral degrees.

Addressing the 92 scholars before their departure, Governor Nwifuru charged them to uphold the moral values and philosophy underpinning the scholarship scheme, which was originally established in 1999.
He emphasised discipline, good conduct, and excellence as essential qualities expected of them as ambassadors of Ebonyi State.

According to the governor, the scholars are expected to return home after their studies to reinvest the knowledge and skills acquired abroad for the development of the state.

He warned the beneficiaries against betraying the trust reposed in them by the government and people of Ebonyi State.

“I am sure you are aware that Ebonyians are not loafers but hardworking people. That spirit of diligence should be your constant companion while you are abroad,” the governor said.

He stressed that the funds expended on the scholarship programme represent the collective sacrifices of Ebonyi citizens.

“Every naira spent on this scholarship is the collective sacrifice of our people farmers, traders, civil servants, and artisans—who believe that your success will one day translate into a stronger and more prosperous Ebonyi State.

“Please, do not betray that trust. Make every lecture, every assignment, and every opportunity count.
“Politics, governance, and history will judge us not by the number of speeches we make, but by the lives we change. We thank God Almighty who has graciously enabled us to make this impact.
“When you return home equipped with knowledge, skills, and global exposure, you will become the pillars upon which the future of Ebonyi State will stand,” he added.
Governor Nwifuru expressed optimism that the beneficiaries would contribute significantly to building stronger institutions, strengthening the state’s economy, and positioning Ebonyi to compete effectively in today’s challenging global economy.
The Ebonyi overseas scholarship scheme, designed exclusively for indigenes of the state, was initiated during the administration of former Governor Sam Egwu, sustained under the government of Chief Martin Elechi, but suffered a setback during the immediate past administration before being revived by the current government.