Empowering the Future: Okomu Oil Palm Company Awards N8.4m Bursaries to Indigent Students

By Ngozi Okeibunor

In a heartwarming display of corporate social responsibility, Okomu Oil Palm Company Plc has awarded bursaries worth N150,000 each to 56 indigent students from communities surrounding its operational areas in Edo State.

The ceremony, which took place recently, was a testament to the company’s commitment to promoting access to quality education and empowering the next generation of leaders.

The bursaries, totaling N8.4 million, were presented as part of the company’s 2025 corporate social responsibility initiative.

According to Mr. Fidelis Olise, the company’s Communication Officer, the gesture is aimed at easing the financial burden on students from low-income families and promoting education in the company’s host and neighboring communities.

Olise emphasized that the bursary scheme is a reflection of Okomu’s long-standing commitment to human capital development and community empowerment.

“This initiative reflects our company’s commitment to giving back and ensuring that students from our neighboring communities have the opportunity to pursue education without undue financial strain on their parents or guardians,” he said.

Two of the beneficiaries, Samonghan Perekeme Ernest from Okomu and Egbon Sonia Osasumwen from Udo, expressed their gratitude to the company for the scholarship. They pledged to use the funds wisely and make their communities proud.

In a related development, Okomu Oil Palm Company also held a community relations training to foster dialogue and strengthen partnerships with neighboring communities.

The engagement was designed to enhance collaboration and mutual understanding between the company and the communities. The Community representatives described the initiative as “the oil that keeps the wheel of partnership and progress turning.”

The 56 beneficiaries were drawn from various communities, including Owan, Ekpan, Uhiere, Irhue, Odiguetue, Odighi, Umokpe, Oke, Orhua, Madagbayo, Gbelebu, Gbole-Uba, Safarogbo, Okomu, Ofunama, Inikorogha, and Udo.

As they embark on their academic journey, Okomu Oil Palm Company’s gesture will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on their lives and their communities.