Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has warned the 206 scholarship students of the state who have been sent to United Kingdom (U.K) for further studies not to toe the path of Simon Ekpa who was sent to Finland for same purpose and he became a problem to the state and country.
Ekpa became a Biafra political activist after his studies abroad.
While in Finland, he declared the activation of the Biafra Government In Exile (BGIE), and made himself the leader-Prime Minister of the Biafra Republic Government in Exile.
He has been accused of causing insecurity in the South-East through his activities.
The Biafra agitator is facing terrorism charges in Finland.
Governor Francis Nwifuru while addressing the 206 scholarship students at the state airport, Onueke, Ezza South Local Government Area before their departure to U.K, said the state will regret sending them for the overseas scholarship programme if they toe Ekpa’s path.
He urged them to be good ambassadors of the state and focus on their studies to achieve excellence.
Nwifuru implored the scholarship students to return to the state after their programmes to give back to the state.
He said: “The achievements we are expecting from you is very heavy, the new innovation we are expecting from you is very heavy.
“Don’t dare to think of how to disappoint us, we will never take it and we must compel you to deliver.
“Remember our brother that is causing (trouble), that is asking people to kill people in this state, Simon Ekpa.
“Remember, he was sent to Finland to study on scholarship, don’t toe his paths. If you do, we must regret sending you abroad for this scholarship. Do you want us to regret sending you abroad? So, I want you to know this.
“This will justify the huge amount our state committed to ensure that you attain this great height for the overall benefit of our dear state.
“As you embark on this transformative journey to world-class institutions abroad and across Nigeria, let me remind you of the immense responsibility that comes with this privilege.
“You are not just students, you are Ambassadors of our state. Your actions, your words, and your achievements will reflect not only on you but on our collective identity as Ebonyi people.
“At all times. In your private and public undertakings, be guided by this. We have expectations that you will graduate on record times and return to contribute your quota towards the development of Ebonyi State.
“Your case must be different from that of Simon Ekpa who instead of reciprocating the gesture of sending him abroad for scholarship turned round to constitute himself a nuisance to the entire Country. We expect you to graduate on record times as I said before and return immediately as this will pave the way for others to benefit.
“Therefore,I urge you to immerse yourselves fully in your studies, embrace the cultures you encounter, and build networks that will be invaluable to your growth. But remember, your ultimate mission lies here at home. Upon completing your studies. For emphasis , we expect you to return to our state and channel your expertise into sectors that need your innovation, creativity, and leadership.
“The challenges we face as a state are significant, but they are not insurmountable. With the right minds and the right commitment, we can transform our education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and technology sectors into models of progress.
“I firmly believe that the solutions to our problems lie in empowering you, the youth, with opportunities like this. Once again, I would also like to use this medium to thank the dedicated team that made this scholarship scheme a reality. Your vision and determination have laid a solid foundation for a brighter tomorrow anchored on renewed minds which forms the core policy thrust of the People’s Charter of Needs Agenda.
“To our scholars, I leave you with this: Never forget where you come from.” I would want you to allow the aspirations of our people inspire you, and let the challenges we face as a state fuel your determination to succeed. While there, do not forget we are counting on you to return to our state as leaders, innovators, and agents of change.
“This will justify the huge amount our state committed to ensuring you attain greater heights for the overall benefits of our people. Do not be swayed by the euphoria of luxury in overseas and lose in chase of dreams.
“Being guided by this, we can build together, the prosperous future our state deserves. Thank you, and may your journey be successful and rewarding as proud Ambassadors of Ebonyi State,” he said.
