The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has come to the aid of Itsekiri students who completed their studies at Novena University in Ogume, Delta State, under the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) but have been unable to receive their graduation certificates due to unpaid fees.
The royal intervention was announced by Prince Collins Edema, who serves as the sole representative of the Olu of Warri to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and its joint venture partners. According to Edema’s statement, the monarch’s decision reflects his dedication to supporting the advancement and empowerment of young people from the Itsekiri community.
The affected graduates have found themselves in a difficult position, unable to collect their certificates or begin their mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program because the Presidential Amnesty Programme failed to settle outstanding tuition and clearance fees with the university.
To address this challenge, the Olu of Warri has established a systematic approach to resolve the financial obligations. Students affected by this issue must fill out a designated Google Form with their personal details and information about their outstanding fees.
The data collection process will remain open until September 30, 2025, giving all eligible students sufficient time to submit their information. Once this phase concludes, the royal office will begin processing payments in stages until every affected student’s account is settled with the university.
This initiative will enable the graduates to finally receive their hard-earned certificates and proceed with the next phase of their lives, including participation in the NYSC program without any further obstacles.
In his statement, Edema emphasized that this intervention demonstrates the monarch’s “enduring love for the Itsekiri Nation and his vision of a future where every Itsekiri youth enjoys unhindered access to education, empowerment, and opportunities to thrive.”
The gesture represents a significant relief for the stranded graduates, who had completed their academic requirements but remained in limbo due to circumstances beyond their control. The Olu of Warri’s intervention ensures that their educational achievements will be properly recognized and that they can move forward with their careers and service to the nation.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
