Chief Akporugo’s good name and deed keep him alive- Chief Efe-Nogo JP
Otorho-Orogun, Delta State
By Foster Akpore
In a significant effort to further the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4): Quality Education, 16 students were awarded the yearly Chief Johnson Okolugbo Akporugo JP Memorial Educational Scholarship on Saturday, May 18, 2024. The ceremony took place at the Ossai Street residence of the late sage in Otorho-Orogun, Ughelli North LGA, Delta State.
The scholarship, aimed at making education more accessible to financially disadvantaged students, honours the legacy of Chief Johnson Akporugo, a revered personality in Orogun Town. Born in 1942, Chief Akporugo was renowned for his contributions to education, community service, and his 33-year tenure as Ukomo of Orogun Kingdom. The initiative underscores his lifelong commitment to fostering educational opportunities and societal improvement.
Mr. Boniface Ukuta Akporugo, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the scholarship foundation, represented by Dr. Freeborn Akporugo, opened the event with a tribute to Chief Akporugo. He highlighted the late Chief’s dedication to education and community development, urging the scholarship recipients to honour this legacy by excelling in their studies and contributing positively to society.
The Onotu-Uku of Orogun Kingdom, Chief Do-Good O Efe-Nogo JP, echoed these sentiments, praising Chief Akporugo’s integrity and dedication. “There are those who are physically dead, but their names and deeds keep them alive,” he remarked, “Chief Akporugo was a man of peace and a custodian of our culture and heritage. If there is anything I can do to support this initiative, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.”
Reverend Esegine Jonathan from the Assemblies of God, Orogun, also spoke warmly of Chief Akporugo’s humility and devotion to his faith, emphasizing his impact on the church community and his commitment to service.
Chief Felix Edeki Akporugo recounted the sacrifices Chief Akporugo made to sponsor his siblings’ education. However, he acknowledged with regret that Chief Akporugo’s beloved wife and only sister could not attend university due to what he termed “selfishness.” He praised his wife, Chief (Mrs) Comfort Akporugo for her sacrifice, noting that she allowed her husband to focus on educating his siblings, often to her detriment. Mrs. Lucky Akporugo Ghereje, his daughter, described Chief Akporugo as an embodiment of kindness and philanthropy, always ensuring that those around him were cared for and happy.
The 16 scholarship recipients, selected for their academic performance, hailed from different schools in Ughelli, Udu, Emonu-Orogun, and Otorho-Orogun. The beneficiaries include Praise Ototakovie, Providence Ototakovie, Akporugo Peace, Oyibu Marvelous, Abraham Efemena, Saniyo Divine, Christopher Edafe, Unity Emmanuel, Amedu Treasure, Akporugo Rejoice, Faith Ogheneovo, Oghenekevwe Victory, Arhere Miracle, Goodluck Oghenesuvwe, Akporugo Destiny, and Diamond Progress.
The event’s highlight was the symbolic presentation of certificates of award to the grateful and joyful students by Chief Do-Good O Efe-Nogo JP, accompanied by Mrs. Akporugo, signifying a commitment to continuing Chief Akporugo’s legacy of educational empowerment and community development.
Notable personalities who attended the event include Chief Do-Good O Efe-Nogo JP, Onotu-Uku of Orogun Kingdom, Mrs. Akporugo, Chief O.J. Orogun JP, Chief Edeki Akporugo, Rev Esegine Jonathan, Chief Alele William, Chief Mrs Oghene-Meshack Anuku, Mrs Stella Esegine, Oghenegweke Joy Emetitiri, Philip Erhere, Onome Francis Oruese and many others.
This scholarship commemorates Chief Akporugo’s contributions and sets a foundation for future generations to achieve their educational dreams, thereby promoting inclusive and equitable quality education in Delta State.