COFI Scholarships @10: Sustaining a legacy of education, mentorship and hope

The Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International (COFI) Scholarships Programme has marked its 10th anniversary, celebrating a decade of sustained investment in youth education and empowerment across Nigeria and beyond.

Founded in September 2015 by Pastor Oyakhilome, the initiative began as a performing arts scholarship scheme supporting 67 members of the LMAM Performing Arts group, then known as the Kids Can Dance Crew.

What started as a focused intervention has since evolved into a structured, multi-tier educational support system spanning nursery, primary, secondary, and tertiary levels.

At a global press conference and public lecture held in Lagos on Wednesday, Pastor Ifeoma Chiemeka, Director of Corporate Affairs at LoveWorld Inc., described the programme as a deliberate and practical response to educational inequality.

“We are not just talking about problems; we are providing solutions,” she said, noting that the scholarship scheme has enabled indigent youths to access quality education and structured mentorship.

According to her, 40 of the original 67 beneficiaries — now referred to as “Kings Can” — have graduated from university and are actively contributing to society and the Ministry

She further disclosed that the programme currently supports 125 university undergraduates, 94 secondary school students, and 82 nursery and primary school pupils, reflecting significant growth in scope and reach over the past decade.

Rev. Pastor Tom Amenkhienan, Chairman of COFI and Director of Church Evangelism at LoveWorld, praised the vision behind the initiative, describing the beneficiaries as “living testimonies” of how education, mentorship, and dedication can transform lives.

Parents of beneficiaries also shared emotional accounts of the programme’s life-changing impact.

One widow recounted how two of her children received full scholarships from secondary school through university at Benson Idahosa University. Both have since graduated and secured employment.

READ ALSO: Christ Embassy Hosts ‘A Night of Blessings’ with Pastor Deola Phillips at Tafawa Balewa Square

“When my children got selected for the scholarship, it was like water to my thirsty soul,” she said, expressing gratitude for the support that lifted a significant financial burden from her family.

Pastor Sylvester Ebhodaghe, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of National Daily Newspapers and National Standard Magazine, highlighted the programme’s strategic expansion through collaboration and partnerships.

“With continued mentorship, infrastructure support, and strategic partnerships, the foundation aims to secure brighter futures for generations to come,” he stated.

Pastor Afolabi Oketunji, Assistant General Secretary of LoveWorld and Pro-Chancellor of British Canadian University, emphasized the importance of broadening academic opportunities and enhancing global exposure for beneficiaries.

He noted that the COFI model reflects a broader trend of faith-based organisations complementing government efforts in addressing gaps within Nigeria’s education system.

“Beyond financial aid, structured mentorship and value-based orientation significantly improve student retention and performance. Programmes like COFI’s demonstrate how holistic support can enhance social mobility,” he added.

In a goodwill message, the Vice-Chancellor of Benson Idahosa University reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to sustained collaboration with the foundation in youth development initiatives.

“In many philanthropic initiatives, continuity is the challenge. A 10-year track record provides assurance to partners and beneficiaries alike,” he said.

As COFI enters its second decade, stakeholders say the focus will be on expanding its reach, strengthening partnerships, and deepening mentorship structures to produce graduates equipped not only academically, but socially and professionally.

The anniversary celebration reinforces a growing consensus among education advocates: sustainable youth empowerment requires more than financial assistance — it demands consistent mentorship, institutional backing, and a long-term vision for societal transformation.