Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru, on Saturday, warned over 200 Ebonyi students sent by the government to schools in the United Kingdom not to behave like Simon Ekpa.

The governor stated this at the Wilberforce Chuba Okadigbo International Airport in Ezza South local government area of the state during the flag-off of the state scholarship scheme and noted that 8000 Ebonyi people will benefit from the state scholarship scheme before the end of our administration.

He told them that their case must be different from that of Simon Ekpa who instead of reciprocating the gesture of sending him abroad for a scholarship turned around to constitute himself a nuisance to the country.

Nwifuru said the state expects “you to graduate on record times, return immediately as this will pave the way for others to benefit charged them not be swayed by the euphoria of luxury in overseas and looss in chase of their dreams.

“As you embark on this transformative journey to world-class institutions abroad and across Nigeria, let me remind you of the immense responsibility that comes with this privilege. You are not just students, you are Ambassadors of our state.

“Your actions, your words, and your achievements will reflect not only on you but on our collective identity as Ebonyi people. At all times. In your private and public undertakings, be guided by this. We have expectations that you will graduate on record times and return to contribute your quota towards the development of Ebonyi State.

“Your case must be different from that of Simon Ekpa who instead of reciprocating the gesture of sending him abroad for scholarship turned around to constitute himself a nuisance to the entire Country. We expect you to graduate on record times as I said before and return immediately as this will pave the way for others to benefit.

“Therefore, I urge you to immerse yourselves fully in your studies, embrace the cultures you encounter, and build networks that will be invaluable to your growth. But remember, your ultimate mission lies here at home. Upon completing your studies. For emphasis, we expect you to return to our state and channel your expertise into sectors that need your innovation, creativity, and leadership.

“I would want you to allow the aspirations of our people to inspire you, and let the challenges we face as a state fuel your determination to succeed. While there, do not forget we are counting on you to return to our state as leaders, innovators, and agents of change.

“This will justify the huge amount our state committed to ensuring you attain greater heights for the overall benefit of our people. Do not be swayed by the euphoria of luxury in overseas and lose chasing of dreams. Being guided by this, we can build together the prosperous future our state deserves.”