The West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) APM Terminals Nigeria has expanded its scholarship programme with the admission of 52 new beneficiaries, raising the total number of students supported under the initiative to 193, in a move aimed at widening access to higher education and promoting academic excellence among young Nigerians.

The latest beneficiaries comprise 47 students from WACT's host communities and five children of employees, reflecting the company's continued investment in education, youth development, and human capital growth. The announcement was made during the fifth edition of the scholarship award ceremony, attended by company management, community leaders, parents, guardians, employees, and the newly selected scholars.

Speaking at the event, WACT Managing Director, Courage Obadagbonyi, described the scholarship scheme as a long term investment in the future of young people and the sustainable development of the communities where the company operates. He explained that the initiative is designed to empower beneficiaries to excel academically and become future leaders capable of contributing meaningfully to their families, communities and the nation's socio economic development.

Obadagbonyi noted that the programme has produced impressive results since it was strengthened in 2021, with several beneficiaries graduating with first class honours and some securing employment within the company. He urged the new scholars to remain focused, disciplined and committed to academic excellence to justify the confidence reposed in them, and highlighted additional initiatives including the WACT Internship Programme and the EngineerHER Programme, a one year scheme equipping female graduates with technical skills and career opportunities in engineering.

Also speaking, Country Chief Executive Officer of APM Terminals Nigeria, Frederik Klinke, described education as one of the company's most impactful social investments, stressing that developing skilled young people remains essential to national economic growth. He added that while the company facilitates international trade through its port operations, long term success depends on nurturing talented individuals capable of driving innovation and productivity.

Representatives of the host communities commended the company for sustaining the initiative over the years, describing it as a meaningful intervention that has reduced the financial burden on many families. Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mbombom Obariayime expressed appreciation to WACT for providing deserving students with the opportunity to continue their education, noting that the scholarship would significantly ease the financial challenges associated with tertiary education.

With the addition of 52 new beneficiaries, the programme is expected to further strengthen educational opportunities in WACT's host communities while contributing to the development of a new generation of skilled graduates equipped to support Nigeria's economic and industrial growth.