No fewer than 1,500 students across Delta North Senatorial District have expressed deep appreciation and renewed optimism following the sponsorship of their 2026 UTME registration fees by Senator Ned Nwoko, describing the intervention as a timely lifeline that has eased financial pressure on their families.
The beneficiaries, drawn from the nine local government areas of the district, said the free registration support has not only removed a major cost barrier but has also strengthened their resolve to pursue university admission with greater confidence.
The Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), conducted nationwide by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, often poses a financial challenge for low- and middle-income households, particularly where multiple children are preparing for tertiary entrance examinations simultaneously.
A Big Relief for Families — Students Speak
Students interviewed across Delta North consistently described the sponsorship as impactful and well-timed.
Ike Esther from Ika North East said the support came at a critical moment for her family, noting that her parents had been juggling several pressing financial commitments.
“This has taken a heavy load off my parents. Now I can focus fully on studying instead of worrying about whether I would even be able to register,” she said.
Moses Peters and Chukwuyem Dorcas, both from Ika South, echoed similar sentiments, stating that the intervention has positively reshaped their outlook on the admission process.
They noted that the gesture reassured them that their academic aspirations are being recognized and supported at the constituency level.
Ossai Success from Ukwuani described the initiative as a strong motivational boost.
“When support like this comes, it makes you feel responsible to give your best. Someone believes in your future, so you have to work hard to justify it,” she said.
Favour Nwoko from Aniocha North added that beyond the financial relief, the programme sends a powerful message about the premium placed on youth education in the district.
Equal Reach Across Delta North
Beneficiaries were selected from Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Ika North East, Ika South, Ndokwa West, Ndokwa East, Oshimili North, Oshimili South, and Ukwuani, ensuring broad inclusion across both urban and rural communities.
Several students noted that candidates in riverine and interior areas often face additional hurdles, including transport and information gaps, but said the coordinated registration exercise helped bridge those challenges.
Participants also reported that the process in their various centres was orderly and transparent, enabling candidates to complete their registration without stress or unofficial charges.
More Than Financial Support
Many beneficiaries emphasized that the programme’s greatest impact extends beyond the payment of fees, describing it as a significant emotional and psychological boost at a pivotal stage of their academic journey.
Some admitted they had contemplated postponing their UTME due to financial uncertainty but are now proceeding with their admission plans.
Parents and guardians, according to the students, have also welcomed the initiative, viewing it as meaningful support for household educational advancement.
Renewed Academic Focus
With registration secured, the sponsored candidates say their attention has shifted fully to preparation.
Study groups and peer-learning circles are already emerging in some communities as students encourage one another to excel.
“We have been given an opportunity,” one beneficiary noted.
“The best way to show appreciation is to pass well and gain admission.”
Across Delta North, the prevailing mood among the beneficiaries is one of gratitude and determination.
Prior to this intervention, Senator Nwoko had also awarded scholarships to 90 students of Delta North origin to study courses of their choice at the Sports University of Nigeria, further underscoring his sustained investment in educational advancement within the district.
