Akamkpa: PZ Wilmar Nigeria, a joint venture initiative working to revitalise Nigeria’s palm oil industry, has expressed concern over the low interest of students in agronomy. The General Manager, Mr. Vijaya Ananth, expressed this concern during the 2025 edition of the Wilmar Scholarship Award Ceremony held in Akamkpa.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ananth urged the youth of the host communities to develop an interest in studying agronomy. He also encouraged parents in Akamkpa communities to motivate their children to pursue agronomy in universities, highlighting the potential for these students to become valuable to the firm in the future, especially when foreign experts exit.
Ananth emphasized that the scholarship award is the company’s initiative to support the indigenes of host communities. He explained, “The scholarships attract a minimum of N200,000 each year, with an additional N50,000 for other charges depending on the school and the course.” He noted that over 450 youths have benefited from the scholarships, with 40 percent pursuing engineering, 25 percent in medical sciences, 9 percent in management sciences, and 7 percent in agriculture.
The company has also established two primary and secondary schools to cater to the educational needs of the host communities. Speaking further, the Commissioner for Education, Sen. Steven Odey, appreciated the firm’s initiative and urged beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity. Odey also encouraged PZ Wilmar to sustain and enhance the program for greater impact, assuring the company of the state government’s support.
Additionally, Mr. Okon Owuna, the Member representing Akamkpa I Constituency in the House of Assembly, praised PZ Wilmar for its corporate social responsibility initiatives. He suggested that the firm consider expanding the scholarship scheme as part of measures to support the community’s wellbeing.
Obhot Agbor Ewa, the Paramount Ruler of Akamkpa, advised the 58 scholarship recipients to view the award as a stepping stone to achieving greater success. He cautioned, “You must see this scholarship as an opportunity to prepare for the future. Don’t joke with it, don’t abuse it; don’t allow us to regret choosing you.”
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that PZ Wilmar, a significant player in the oil palm industry, produces approximately 1,000 metric tons of crude palm oil daily.