One thousand five hundred students across Delta North Senatorial District have expressed deep appreciation and renewed optimism after Senator Ned Nwoko covered their 2026 UTME registration fees.
They describe the initiative as a vital relief that has eased significant financial pressure on their families.
The beneficiaries, drawn from the district’s nine local government areas, said the support has eliminated a major cost barrier and boosted their confidence as they pursue university admission. The UTME, conducted nationwide by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), often poses a financial challenge for low- and middle-income families particularly those with more than one child preparing for tertiary entrance examinations.
Students from different parts of Delta North shared how timely and meaningful the intervention has been. Ike Esther from Ika North East explained that the assistance came just as her family was juggling multiple urgent expenses alongside her exam registration.
Similarly, Moses Peters and Chukwuyem Dorcas from Ika South said the sponsorship positively changed their outlook on gaining admission, assuring them that their academic dreams are valued and supported within their constituency. Favour Nwoko from Aniocha North added that beyond easing financial strain, the gesture sends a powerful message about the importance placed on youth education in the district.
The programme ensured broad coverage, reaching students in Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Ika North East, Ika South, Ndokwa West, Ndokwa East, Oshimili North, Oshimili South, and Ukwuani. This wide distribution allowed both urban and rural communities to benefit.
Some beneficiaries pointed out that students in riverine and remote areas often face extra challenges, such as transportation difficulties and limited access to information. They noted that the coordinated registration exercise helped address these issues. Many described the process as smooth and well-organized, free from unnecessary stress or unofficial charges.
With their registration secured, the students have now shifted their focus to exam preparation. In several communities, supported candidates have begun forming study groups and peer-learning circles, encouraging one another to aim for high scores.
Across Delta North, the general mood among beneficiaries is one of gratitude and determination—a shared belief that an opportunity has been opened, and it is now their responsibility to make the most of it through hard work and discipline.
Before this latest intervention, Senator Ned Nwoko had also awarded scholarships to 90 students from Delta North to study courses of their choice at the Sports University of Nigeria in Idumuje Ugboko.
Many beneficiaries emphasized that the impact of the programme goes beyond financial assistance. They described it as an emotional and psychological boost at a crucial point in their academic journey. Some admitted they had considered postponing their UTME due to financial uncertainty, but with the fees covered, they are now proceeding as planned with their university and polytechnic ambitions.
According to the students, parents and guardians have also expressed relief and appreciation, viewing the initiative as meaningful support for their children’s educational progress.
Read also: Sen Nwoko Offers Free JAMB Registration For Students in Delta