Niger Delta amnesty programme student bags MA with distinction from UK university

PRESIDENTIAL Amnesty Programme Scholarship Scheme beneficiary Nicholas Goodnews has earned a Master of Arts with distinction in Mass Communications from the University of Bedfordshire in the UK.

Founded by former President Umaru Yar'Adua the amnesty scholarship scheme was designed to enable Niger Delta youths obtain education abroad in exchange for them laying down their arms. It has so far been successful, particularly in the UK where the Niger Delta Development Commission is sponsoring a lot of university undergraduates.

Mr Goodnews commended President Muhammadu Buhari for sustaining the programme and also lauded Col Milland Dikio  the interim administrator of the presidential amnesty programme for upholding the original vision of the scheme. He said he consistently maintained incredible grades and actively participated in extracurricular activities, serving among other things as academic, departmental and course representative.

“I am honoured to be a beneficiary and product of the federal government scholarship scheme through the office of the interim administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme. Your goodwill and generous contribution have empowered me to pursue and successfully completed the degree of Master of Arts with distinction in Mass Communications in 2021 at the University of Bedfordshire, United Kingdom.

 “I am delighted to inform you that I have performed excellently in my studies despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and graduated with another distinction. Recall that I have previously graduated with a first class BA honours in Public Relations in 2016 from Bedfordshire University through the sponsorship of the programme and I am very happy that my hard work paid off again.

“I was honoured as Best Graduating Student of Set 2021 media, culture and communications studies. Also, whilst doing my Master`s degree study, I have attained a Professional Diploma in Leadership & Management at Shaw Academy UK, among other accomplishments," Mr Goodnews added.

He urged beneficiaries of the Presidential Amnesty Programme to work hard and maximise their time and performance to encourage the federal government to sustain the scheme. Mr Goodnews said he remains focuses because of his realisation and conviction that achieving a prosperous Niger Delta of our dream requires collective responsibility.