WACT expands scholarship scheme with 52 new beneficiaries

August 7, 2026 2:09 am

The West Africa Container Terminal-APM Terminals Nigeria has expanded its educational support initiative with the award of scholarships to 52 new beneficiaries, comprising 47 students from its host communities and five children of employees, bringing the total number of beneficiaries under the WACT Scholarship Scheme to 193.

According to a statement, the scholarship award ceremony was attended by the WACT management team, the Country Chief Executive Officer of APM Terminals Nigeria, community leaders from WACT’s host communities, parents, guardians, employees, and student beneficiaries.

“The event highlighted WACT’s commitment to educational advancement and youth empowerment through sustained investments in people and communities,” the statement read in part.

Speaking at the ceremony, WACT Managing Director, Courage Obadagbonyi, described the scholarship programme as an investment in the future of the students and the communities they represent.

“This scholarship programme is aimed at empowering students to shine as leaders and contributors to their families, their communities, Rivers State, and Nigeria at large,” Obadagbonyi said.

He congratulated the beneficiaries on their academic achievements and commended their parents and guardians for supporting their educational journeys, saying, “The singular fact that you are here as a beneficiary of the WACT Scholarship Scheme is a testament to the fact that you are not only intelligent but also diligent and dedicated to your studies.”

He noted that the event marked the fifth edition of the scholarship award ceremony since the launch of WACT’s transformation initiatives in 2021, which strengthened engagement with host communities through the pillars of transparency, visibility, and inclusivity.

According to him, the scheme has recorded significant success over the years, producing several first-class graduates and creating opportunities for young people to pursue their academic aspirations. Some of these graduates are currently in the company’s employment.

“Today, we are welcoming 52 new beneficiaries into the scheme, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 193,” he stressed.

Obadagbonyi challenged the scholars to remain focused and demonstrate that the company’s investment in their education is worthwhile.

He also highlighted other educational support initiatives, including the WACT Internship Programme, which provides scholars with workplace experience, and the WACT EngineerHER Programme, a one-year development initiative designed to equip female graduates with practical skills and industry exposure.

The Country Chief Executive Officer of APM Terminals Nigeria, Frederik Klinke, described the scholarship scheme as one of the company’s most impactful social sustainability initiatives, noting that investing in education aligns with the organisation’s broader purpose of facilitating trade and supporting national development.

“This is one of the social sustainability programmes that we do in Nigeria that I am most proud of because it goes back to the core of what we want to do as a company,” Klinke said.

He explained that while APM Terminals facilitates global trade through its operations, long-term success depends on developing talent that can drive economic growth.

The Country CEO added that the scholarship scheme is helping nurture future talent from the communities where the company operates and creating opportunities for young people to excel.

Speaking on behalf of the Ogu community, the WACT Ogu Community Liaison Officer, Adolphus Dasetima, commended the company for sustaining the scholarship programme and extending opportunities to employees’ children.

He encouraged the beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity and serve as worthy ambassadors of the company and their communities.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Onne Community Development Committee, Godfrey Maate, thanked WACT for its support for young people through education.

He also acknowledged the impact of the WACT EngineerHER Programme and encouraged the company to sustain its educational and community development initiatives.

Representing the beneficiaries, Mbombom Obariayime expressed appreciation to WACT and its management for creating opportunities for students from Onne and Ogu communities.

“I want to appreciate the company and management for making it a mandate in their hearts to empower Onne and Ogu students with scholarship opportunities.”

The beneficiaries and their families expressed gratitude to WACT for their support, describing the scholarships as a significant contribution towards achieving their educational goals and easing the financial burden of higher education.

With the addition of 52 new beneficiaries, the WACT Scholarship Scheme continues to play a vital role in promoting academic excellence, developing local talent, and creating opportunities for future leaders in its host communities and beyond.

Anozie Egole

Anozie is a Chief Correspondent at Punch Newspapers with over 13 years of experience covering entertainment, maritime, and transport sectors. He specializes in producing insightful, engaging stories that provide clarity and depth across his beats. Anozie’s work reflects substantial newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accurate and compelling journalism.

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