Wigwe University has commended the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, for prioritising education as part of his holistic approach to empowering youths in the Niger Delta.
The institution described the strategic collaboration with the PAP as a meaningful step, noting that it aligns with the vision of its late founder, Herbert Wigwe, whose lifelong commitment to education and youth empowerment in the Niger Delta continues to guide the university’s mission.
In a statement issued following a meeting between the Vice Chancellor of Wigwe University, Prof. Marwan Al-Akaidi, a member of the Board of Trustees of Wigwe University, Mr. Uche Wigwe, and the Administrator of the PAP, Dr. Otuaro, the university lauded the new partnership aimed at offering PAP scholarship beneficiaries access to world-class education and transformative skills.
According to the university, the Administrator’s renewed focus on providing quality education for Niger Delta youths is in clear alignment with the late Wigwe’s passionate belief in education as a catalyst for achieving Africa’s potential for prosperity.
Prof. Al-Akaidi emphasised that Wigwe University’s academic model, which combines rigorous intellectual training with entrepreneurial development, is designed to produce globally competitive graduates who are self-reliant and solutions-driven.
The statement read: “This partnership is not just timely, it is a continuation of the dream that our founder, Mr. Herbert Wigwe, held so dearly; to use education as a transformative tool to change the narrative in Africa, including that of the Niger Delta.
“Our founder envisioned a university that would serve as a beacon of hope and a platform for unlocking the full potential of the Niger Delta youth. This collaboration with the PAP under Dr. Dennis Otuaro’s forward-looking leadership brings us even closer to that vision.
“We believe strongly that with Dr. Otuaro’s commitment and relentless effort, there will be a new narrative for youths of the region, as Wigwe University will become the springboard for rapid human capacity development.”
He commended Dr. Otuaro for his “bold and people-centered approach” to leadership and also praised the Administrator’s commitment to using education as a long-term strategy for peacebuilding and sustainable development.
Responding, Dr. Otuaro expressed appreciation to Wigwe University for embracing the partnership, describing the institution as a “model of excellence” that resonates with the PAP’s new direction.
“This collaboration aligns perfectly with our goal of ensuring that beneficiaries of the Amnesty Programme are not only reintegrated but are empowered to compete and succeed in today’s knowledge-driven global economy,” he said.
The partnership, which will commence with the enrollment of selected beneficiaries of the PAP Scholarship Programmes into degree programmes at Wigwe University beginning with the upcoming academic session, marks a pivotal step in PAP’s broader strategy to enhance human capital in the Niger Delta through high-impact educational opportunities.
Wigwe University reaffirmed its commitment to building on Herbert Wigwe’s legacy by continuing to support initiatives that uplift communities and empower future generations through education.
