In what many attendees described as both inspiring and transformative, the Dr. Cairo Ojougboh Foundation has intensified its commitment to supporting government efforts aimed at advancing educational development in Nigeria. The Foundation’s recent intervention underscores its resolve to empower young minds and promote academic excellence as a pathway to national growth.
Established in honour of the late medical doctor and distinguished member of the House of Representatives, Dr. Cairo Ojougboh, the Foundation seeks to preserve his legacy of service, discipline, and dedication to humanity. Dr. Ojougboh was widely respected for his passion for community development and his unwavering belief in education as a tool for societal transformation.
As part of its ongoing educational support initiative, the Foundation recently organised a special programme at St. Columba’s Grammar School, Agbor, located in the headquarters of Ika South Local Government Area of Delta State. The event, themed “Your Future, Your Choice,” brought together students, teachers, alumni, community leaders, and government representatives in a powerful gathering focused on inspiring students to take charge of their destinies.
A major highlight of the programme was the presentation of a cheque worth ₦2,700,000 to cover examination fees for students preparing to sit for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), National Examinations Council (NECO), and Junior Secondary School (JSS 3) examinations. This generous gesture was aimed at easing the financial burden on parents and ensuring that no deserving student is denied the opportunity to complete their academic journey due to financial constraints.
Beyond the payment of examination fees, the Foundation further demonstrated its dedication to academic excellence by rewarding the best-performing students across the school’s nine academic arms with cash prizes. Exercise books and other essential writing materials were also distributed to enhance effective learning and encourage academic focus.
More than a financial intervention, the programme served as a strategic investment in both the academic and personal development of the students. It also stood as a celebration of the enduring values that defined Dr. Cairo Ojougboh’s life — discipline, excellence, integrity, and service to others.
In her address, the Chairperson of the Foundation, Mrs. Bose Ojougboh, emphasised the importance of giving back to the institution that played a pivotal role in shaping Dr. Cairo’s character and values. She noted that St. Columba’s Grammar School was instrumental in nurturing the discipline and academic foundation that later defined his success.
Mrs. Ojougboh reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to inspiring present and future generations of students to remain diligent and purposeful. She encouraged students not to perceive obstacles as barriers, but rather as stepping stones to growth and achievement. According to her, challenges should be transformed into opportunities for self-improvement and resilience.
She further urged the students to take full responsibility for their future by making intentional, positive choices both academically and personally. Hard work, consistency, discipline, and focus, she stressed, are indispensable ingredients for lasting success.
Her two sons, Mr. Nkem Ojougboh and Mr. Orieka Ojougboh, actively participated in the programme, reinforcing the family’s collective commitment to sustaining the Foundation’s vision. They echoed the message that every decision students make today contributes significantly to shaping their tomorrow.
The event was enriched by the strong presence of the Old Boys of St. Columba’s Grammar School, led by Elder Ndudi Agholor. Represented in large numbers, the alumni shared nostalgic reflections about their time at the institution, expressing pride in the school’s enduring reputation for excellence. They commended the current leadership for preserving the high standards and strong moral foundation that have long defined the school.
In their separate remarks, the school principal, Rev. Fr. Joseph Ugboh, and the Chairman of Ika South Local Government, Engr. Jerry Ehiwarior, applauded the Cairo Ojougboh family for what they described as a commendable and impactful initiative. They encouraged the Foundation to sustain the programme, noting that it represents a meaningful and enduring way to honour Dr. Cairo Ojougboh’s legacy.
Both leaders expressed deep appreciation for the generous support, observing that the initiative had significantly motivated students and strengthened their determination to pursue academic excellence.
The programme concluded on a hopeful and uplifting note, with students leaving inspired, empowered, and determined to make informed and responsible choices about their future — truly embodying the theme, “Your Future, Your Choice.”