In a strong appeal for moral reawakening, the Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Professor Ojakovo Oharisi, has called on students to uphold higher ethical standards and values that foster personal development and national unity.
Addressing students during a one-day parley held at his palace over the weekend, the revered monarch stressed the need for young people to align their lives with principles that promote discipline, integrity, and cultural pride.
The event, organised in partnership with the Jodah Praise Foundation, brought together students from various schools within the Ughelli Kingdom as part of the monarch’s broader initiative to mentor the youth and nurture future leaders.
HRM Oharisi, an academic and spiritual leader, expressed concern over the erosion of traditional values under modern societal pressures.
“Our future leaders must embrace honesty, respect, diligence, and responsibility. Without a strong moral foundation, education alone cannot deliver the transformation our nation needs,” he said.
He urged students to become role models among their peers by exhibiting good character both in and out of school. “Character,” he noted, “is the true measure of leadership. Academic excellence must be complemented by proper conduct and respect for elders, teachers, and fellow students.”
The parley featured keynote addresses and panel discussions from several prominent figures, including Chairman of the Governing Council, Delta State College of Health Technology, Ofuoma, Dr Chris Oharisi, Executive Director of TRENO Rehabilitation Centre, Pastor Evans Akpocha, and Convener and Executive Director of the Jodah Praise Foundation, Joseph Edah.
They addressed pressing issues such as cultism, drug abuse, examination malpractice, and other vices threatening the future of Nigerian youth.
The monarch also called on parents, teachers, and community leaders to reinforce value-based education, emphasising that moral reformation must begin at home and continue in the classroom.
Students expressed gratitude for the rare opportunity to engage with the traditional ruler, describing the experience as inspiring and transformative.
