In a move widely described by participants as inspiring and transformational, the Dr. Cairo Ojougboh Foundation has deepened its commitment to supporting educational development in Nigeria with financial assistance and mentorship for students in Delta State.
The Foundation, established in honour of the late medical doctor and former member of the House of Representatives, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, recently organised a special programme at St. Columba’s Grammar School in Agbor, headquarters of Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State. The event, themed “Your Future, Your Choice,” combined financial support with motivational guidance aimed at shaping students’ academic and personal journeys.
As part of the initiative, the Foundation presented a cheque of N2.7 million to cover examination fees for students sitting for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), National Examinations Council (NECO), and Junior Secondary School (JSS 3) examinations.
Beyond the payment of exam fees, the Foundation rewarded academic excellence by presenting cash gifts to the best-performing students across the school’s nine academic arms. Exercise books and other writing materials were also distributed to enhance effective learning.
Observers noted that the intervention not only eased financial burdens on families but also reinforced a culture of merit and academic dedication within the school community.
Speaking at the event, Chairperson of the Foundation, Mrs. Bose Ojougboh, highlighted the importance of giving back to the institution that played a formative role in her late husband’s life.
She said St. Columba’s Grammar School significantly shaped Dr. Ojougboh’s values of discipline, excellence, and service—principles the Foundation seeks to pass on to the next generation.
Encouraging the students, she urged them to view obstacles not as barriers but as stepping stones to growth. According to her, making intentional and positive life choices—both academically and personally—is critical to achieving long-term success.
“Every decision you make contributes to your future,” she emphasised, stressing that discipline, focus, and consistency are non-negotiable ingredients for success.
Her two sons, Mr. Nkem Ojougboh and Mr. Orieka Ojougboh, actively participated in the programme, reinforcing the family’s commitment to sustaining the initiative.
The event drew strong support from the Old Boys of St. Columba’s Grammar School, led by Elder Ndudi Agholor. Many alumni shared nostalgic reflections about their time at the institution and commended the current school leadership for upholding its long-standing standards of excellence.
In their separate remarks, the school principal, Rev. Fr. Joseph Ugboh, and the Chairman of Ika South Local Government, Engr. Jerry Ehiwarior, praised the Cairo Ojougboh family for what they described as a commendable and impactful intervention.
They noted that the initiative not only preserves Dr. Ojougboh’s legacy but also provides tangible encouragement for students striving for academic success.
The programme concluded on a hopeful and uplifting note, with students expressing renewed determination to pursue their studies with greater focus and purpose.
Participants described the event as more than a charitable gesture, viewing it instead as a strategic investment in the future of young Nigerians—one that aligns with broader national efforts to strengthen educational access and excellence.