Over 2 million Itsekiris are studying across the globe-NAIS President

The National President of National Association of Itsekiri Students, NAIS, Comrade Austin Leleji says there are over two million Itsekiris studying in higher institutions across the globe.

The NAIS President made the declaration during the association’s annual National Convention held weekend in Warri, Delta State.

Comrade Leleji mentioned his stewardship to include embarking on operation speak Itsekiri language by all Itsekiri students, purchase and distribution of Itsekiri text books to Itsekiri students, facilitation of tertiary scholarships to indigent Itsekiri students and the back to school campaign.

According to Comrade Leleji, some of the challenges being faced by NAIS include high level of school dropouts due to inability of parents to pay for tuition fees, the deplorable state of educational infrastructure and lack of teachers at the rural areas.

He called on the National Assembly to enact a law, barring leaders and other Nigerians from taking their children to study abroad in order for government to show more support to the education sector, just as he enjoined youths to know that they are agents of change.

The Itsekiri students’ umbrella body used the medium to present award to some distinguished Itsekiris who have supported them immensely. Some of the awardees are: Chief Rita Lori-Ogbebor, the Igba of Warri Kingdom, Dr. Joseph Otumara, Delta State Commissioner for Health, Former Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Victor Ochie and renowned Itsekiri leader, Pa. J.O.S Ayomike.

Responding on behalf of other recipients, Chief Rita Lori-Ogbebor urged the students to think beyond oil and take up the challenge of going into agriculture.

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