A delegation of student leaders from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), on Wednesday, paid a courtesy visit to the Acting Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State, Barrister Steve Oruruo, where they presented him with a Merit Award for Outstanding Humanitarian Service.
The delegation, made up of executives from the Department of Political Science, was led by Comrade Onuzulike Michael Chinemelum, who represented the President of the National Association of Political Science Students (NAPSS), Comrade Okwor ThankGod Chinonso.
Speaking during the presentation, Comrade Onuzulike, who also serves as the President of the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy Students’ Network (COPDEM SN), Enugu State, explained that the honour was the result of an online survey and discreet investigation carried out by the student leaders. Their findings, he said, revealed Barr. Oruruo’s consistent philanthropic activities through the Steve Oruruo Foundation, which has supported many indigent students with scholarships and empowerment programmes without media publicity.
He noted that Barr. Oruruo’s humility and dedication to human capital development distinguished him among other nominees, earning him the department’s most prestigious recognition.
“We discovered that Barr. Oruruo has touched many lives silently through his foundation, offering scholarships and support to underprivileged students. His modesty and selfless service inspired us to honour him,” Comrade Onuzulike stated.
In his response, Barr. Steve Oruruo expressed heartfelt appreciation to the student leaders for acknowledging his efforts and commended their commitment to celebrating true leadership and humanitarian values.
He revealed that he often rejects award offers when he feels they lack credibility but accepted this particular one because of the diligence and transparency demonstrated by the students in their selection process.
Reflecting on his personal background, Oruruo described his late father as “an ecclesiastical and charismatic gentleman who placed premium on the quality of an individual’s character and lifestyle.” He added that, being the son of a civil servant and teacher, he understands the struggles faced by brilliant but underprivileged students, which inspired his continued commitment to educational support through the Steve Oruruo Foundation.
“I usually reject awards when I feel they are not merited. But this recognition means a lot to me because it came from young people who went beyond the media to investigate and confirm the truth,” Oruruo said.
He encouraged the student leaders to remain steadfast in their academic pursuits, uphold integrity and discipline, and strive for excellence in all their endeavours, assuring them of his continued support for educational development initiatives.
The visit, held at the Enugu State PDP Secretariat, concluded with an interactive session during which Barr. Oruruo urged the young scholars to take active interest in leadership, politics, and nation-building.
