Officials of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) on Thursday, April 30, 2026, paid an official visit to Ritman University, Ikot Ekpene, where they engaged newly sponsored students under the programme in an interactive session focused on orientation, expectations, and compliance.
The visit formed part of PAP’s ongoing efforts to ensure that beneficiaries of its scholarship scheme are well-informed about the programme’s framework and their responsibilities as students and representatives of the initiative.
Addressing the students, the PAP officials provided a detailed overview of the Programme’s Code of Conduct, emphasizing the importance of discipline, academic commitment, and responsible behaviour throughout the duration of their studies. They reiterated that beneficiaries are expected to uphold high moral standards and serve as worthy ambassadors of the Programme.
The officials also highlighted the obligations of the Presidential Amnesty Programme to its sponsored students, assuring them of continued support in areas such as tuition, welfare, and other approved entitlements. In addition, students were clearly informed about their entitlements under the scheme, including financial support and other academic-related provisions designed to facilitate a conducive learning experience.
Speaking further, the delegation outlined their expectations from the students, urging them to remain focused, maintain satisfactory academic performance, and comply fully with institutional regulations as well as PAP guidelines. They stressed that the success of the Programme largely depends on the commitment and conduct of its beneficiaries.
The session also addressed the consequences of non-compliance, with officials warning that violations of the Code of Conduct, poor academic performance, or misconduct could result in sanctions, including possible withdrawal from the Programme.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Akan B. Williams, welcomed the ten-man team from the Presidential Amnesty Programme and appreciated them for their interest in Ritman University. He noted that the University has the capacity to admit more students into its forty programmes under PAP’s sponsorship.
In a goodwill message, the Founder of Ritman University, distinguished Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, FNSE, sent his regards to the National Executives of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, expressing appreciation for their continued support to the University.
The Founder acknowledged his historical connection to initiatives similar to PAP, noting that he was among the frontline contributors to the development of the Programme. He further reflected on his personal experience as a beneficiary of a government initiative in 1978 known as the “Crash Programme for Middle-Level Manpower Development,” a three-year diploma scheme equivalent to a Higher National Diploma (HND). He stated that his engagement with officials at the time contributed to policy improvements, including the introduction of a 20 percent allocation for high-level manpower development.
Addressing the students, Senator Essien advised them to take their studies seriously, stressing that education remains a powerful tool for national transformation. He encouraged them to position themselves as future leaders capable of advancing Nigeria’s industrial sector, particularly the oil and gas industry.
He further urged the students to adopt intellectual and innovative approaches in addressing the challenges of the Niger Delta, rather than resorting to conflict. According to him, sustainable development in the region can only be achieved through knowledge-driven solutions and constructive engagement.
The Founder also emphasized the importance of preparing younger generations for the future, calling on students to see themselves as agents of positive change who will contribute meaningfully to national development.
The interactive meeting provided an opportunity for students to ask questions and seek clarifications on various aspects of the Programme, fostering better understanding and alignment with PAP’s objectives.
The visit concluded with a call for students to take full advantage of the opportunity provided by the Presidential Amnesty Programme and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Ritman University management expressed appreciation to the PAP officials for the visit and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting the academic and personal development of the sponsored students.
