Education, Business Leaders Set To Raise ₦5bn For Scholarships, Teacher Training

According to Ireporter Online, the initiative is a central feature of activities marking the 100th birthday celebration of Emeritus Prof. Otonti Nduka, scheduled for May 8, with a two-day commemorative programme set to hold in Rivers State.

A statement released by the Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee, Prof. Hillary Wordu, and Secretary, Dr. Ovuchi Justice Agwnu, confirmed that the fund would be officially launched during the event, with Chairman of Ramec Group of Companies, Grant Offor, expected to serve as Chief Launcher.

The organisers noted that the initiative is designed to strengthen values-based education in tertiary institutions while also enhancing research capacity and professional development for educators across the country. They further stated that stakeholders from academia, government, industry, and civil society are expected to gather in honour of Prof. Nduka’s lifelong contributions to education, moral philosophy, and national development.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, is expected to attend as Special Guest of Honour, while Governor Siminalayi Fubara will serve as Chief Host of the celebration.

Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, is billed to deliver a keynote address titled “Trends and Challenges in Upholding Values Education in Nigeria,” where he is expected to examine declining ethical standards amid globalization and technological change, while proposing reforms aimed at strengthening integrity and critical thinking in education.

Former Attorney-General of the Federation, Dr. Kanu Agabi, is also expected to speak at the event.

The celebration will hold at Rivers State University, beginning with panel discussions on “Reviving Values in a Digital Age” and “Ethical Leadership for National Development,” followed by cultural performances, a gala dinner, the unveiling of a centenary portrait, and the presentation of an anthology of Prof. Nduka’s works on the second day.

Organisers disclosed that over 1,500 participants, including vice-chancellors, policymakers, academics, and students, are expected to attend, describing the initiative as a timely intervention aimed at reinforcing values education as a response to corruption and widening social inequality in Nigeria.