Education stakeholders and business leaders have unveiled plans to raise N5 billion to support scholarships, teacher training, and research centres focused on values education across Nigerian universities.
The initiative, under the Otonti Nduka Foundation for Values Education Endowment Fund, forms a key part of activities marking the 100th birthday of Emeritus Professor Otonti Nduka, scheduled for May 8 in Rivers State.
According to a statement by the Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee, Prof. Hillary Wordu, and Secretary, Dr. Ovuchi Justice Agwnu, the fund will be officially launched during the two-day celebration. The Chairman of Ramec Group of Companies, Grant Offor, is set to lead the fundraising effort as Chief Launcher.
Organisers say the endowment aims to strengthen values-based education in higher institutions while supporting research and capacity building for educators nationwide.
The event is expected to attract prominent figures from academia, government, industry, and civil society, all gathering to honour Prof. Nduka’s lasting contributions to education, moral philosophy, and national development.
Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, will attend as Special Guest of Honour, while Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, will serve as Chief Host.
Describing the significance of the event, Prof. Wordu said, “This centenary is not just a birthday; it is a national reflection on the values that shape our progress.”
A keynote address will be delivered by former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, titled “Trends and Challenges in Upholding Values Education in Nigeria.” His presentation is expected to explore declining ethical standards in the face of globalisation and technological change, while proposing reforms to promote integrity and critical thinking.
Also scheduled to speak is former Attorney-General of the Federation, Dr. Kanu Agabi (SAN).
Prof. Nduka, a former President of the Nigeria Academy of Education and recipient of the National Universities Commission’s Distinguished Professor of the Century award, is widely regarded as a pioneer of values education in post-colonial Africa. He earned his doctorate from the University of Ibadan and lectured at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
His influential works, including The Foundations of Social Order and Ethics in Education, helped integrate moral philosophy into both science and humanities curricula.
The event, taking place at Rivers State University, will kick off with panel sessions on “Reviving Values in a Digital Age” and “Ethical Leadership for National Development.”
Day two will feature cultural displays, a gala night, the unveiling of a centenary portrait, and the launch of an anthology of Prof. Nduka’s works.
With over 1,500 participants expected including vice-chancellors, policymakers, academics, and students organisers describe the celebration as a timely intervention aimed at addressing corruption and social inequality through strengthened values education.
