2025 Scholars

We are delighted to announce our Kponee-Shovein Foundation scholarship recipients for the 2025 – 2026 academic year, outstanding students from Rivers State, Nigeria who are pursuing their undergraduate degrees. Selected from numerous applicants, each of the recipients was chosen for their potential to make significant contributions to Nigerian society, culture, and their respective academic fields. For the 2025 – 2026 academic year, the foundation awarded scholarships and stipends to a total of 12 recipients, seven new scholars and five returning scholars.

New Scholarship Recipients

Gbarakpoo Barinaakporkiabel Esther is an undergraduate student studying Business Administration at Rivers State University. Esther is a driven and passionate student, fueled by a relentless desire to drive growth and innovation in Nigeria’s business landscape. Her pursuit of Business Administration is driven by a vision to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic development and inspire positive change. She is inspired to contribute to community growth and uplift others through her journey. Beyond academics, she enjoys exploring local cuisine, traveling, and learning new languages. This scholarship will empower her to focus on impactful projects and learning.

Dum-Suka, Barilee Josiah is an undergraduate student at the University of Port Harcourt studying Medicine and Surgery. An indigene of Rivers State, his interest in medicine was shaped by personal life experiences and a sincere desire to serve his community. Josiah values learning, mentorship, and personal growth. Alongside his studies, he enjoys reading, writing, and video editing. He hopes to practice medicine in Nigeria and contribute to improving healthcare access and outcomes, particularly within underserved communities, while encouraging young people to remain focused and resilient despite challenges.

Nte John Nworie is a 400-level medical student studying Medicine and Surgery at the University of Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. He hails from Ndashi village in Etche local government River State and has consistently demonstrated strong academic excellence, His passion for medicine is driven by a desire to improve access to quality healthcare and contribute meaningfully to community development. Beyond academics, Nte is actively involved in leadership and service, serving as the Director of Socials for the Calabar Medical Students’ Association and as the Youth President of his community. He has received several recognitions for his academic performance and community engagement. He aspires to become a compassionate physician, contribute to healthcare development in Nigeria, and inspire young people through leadership, service, and excellence.

Charles Daniel Barigiasi is a third-year undergraduate student pursuing a degree in Anatomy at the University of Port Harcourt by the mercies of God. His interest in Anatomy stems from his passion for caring for people, which was first expressed when he played the role of a medical doctor during his primary school graduation. This interest grew stronger during his secondary school Biology classes. He hopes that earning a degree in Anatomy and advancing further in the field will enable him to contribute to discoveries that enhance diagnosis, treatment, and surgical procedures. Outside his academic work, Charles engages in extracurricular activities such as playing classical music as a choirmaster, developing websites, and tutoring his junior colleagues as a means of sharing knowledge.

Abbey Awobelem Ibitrokoemi is a Second-Year Undergraduate student at Rivers State University, pursuing a degree in Medicine and Surgery. Growing up with a strong awareness of the health challenges faced by relative and people in his community shaped Abbey’s interest in medicine and inspired his desire to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare sector. He attributes his academic progress and determination to the constant support, encouragement, and prayers of his family. Ibitrokoemi is deeply passionate about improving healthcare delivery in Rivers State and Nigeria at large, with a long-term goal of practicing medicine in Nigeria and contributing to initiatives that promote accessible and quality healthcare. He also hopes to serve as a source of inspiration to other young people aspiring to build careers in medicine. Outside his academic commitments, Ibitrokoemi enjoys capturing memories through photography, learning new ideas, and engaging in activities that broaden his perspective.

Banigo Divine Kingsley is a first-year undergraduate student at Rivers State University, studying Electrical and Electronics Engineering. Growing up in Rivers State and witnessing the impact of unreliable electricity inspired Divine to pursue engineering, with a goal of developing sustainable and innovative energy solutions. She credits her progress so far to the unwavering support, guidance, and encouragement of her family and community. Divine hopes to specialize in power and renewable energy systems and is passionate about mentoring young people in science and technology to help them reach their full potential. Outside of her studies, she enjoys exploring new advancements in technology, volunteering to help others, listening to music, and participating in church activities.

Kalabe Useful is a second-year undergraduate student of Rivers State University, currently pursuing a degree in Physiotherapy. Growing up with a strong awareness of the health challenges faced by relatives and members of his community shaped his interest in Physiotherapy and inspired his desire to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare sector. He attributes his academic progress and determination to the constant support, encouragement, and prayers of his family. Useful is deeply passionate about improving healthcare delivery in Rivers State and Nigeria at large, with a long-term goal of practicing Physiotherapy in Nigeria and contributing to initiatives that promote accessible and quality healthcare. He also aspires to serve as a source of inspiration to young people who wish to build careers in Physiotherapy. Outside his academic pursuits, Useful enjoys photography, learning new ideas, and engaging in activities that broaden his perspective.

Continuing Scholarship Recipients

The Foundation is pleased to continue supporting five previous scholarship recipients, who have all continued to excel academically, with scholarships and stipends for the 2025 – 2026 academic year.

Dua Naabeelebari – 4th year, Medicine & Surgery