20th June, 2024
By Jethro Ibileke
As Nigerians continue to grapple with the harsh economy, the Mercy Igbe-Arase Foundation and the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation (SEAF), have continued to provide succor for thousands of members of communities across Edo State.
Both Foundations share a common mission to support undergraduate studies by recognizing academic excellence and potential.
The Mercy Igbe-Arase Foundation was established in memory of Late Madam Mercy Igbe-Arase, a seasoned, old-fashioned teacher by her son, Dr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase, in conjunction with friends and family members, to continue her legacy.
While the Mercy Igbe Arase Foundation caters for students from the Owan West and Owan East local government areas of Edo, the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation focuses on supporting indigenes of the seven local government areas that make up Edo South Senatorial District and children of late Police Inspectors and Rank and File.
Since inception, the Mercy Igbe-Arase Foundation has made significant strides in achieving its objectives through provision of annual scholarships for indigent students, community development projects and collaboration with local organizations to promote human rights and social justice.
This consistent efforts have led to a tangible impact in the lives of many, fostered a brighter future for individuals and communities alike, through provision of access to education, promoting community development and championing human rights.
Similarly, the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation, incorporated in 2022 by Nigeria’s 18th Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase, has empowered individuals and foster community development, an initiative that has continued to inspire and make a lasting impact on the lives of many.
At its maiden annual lecture series, the Foundation presentated cheques to the first batch of scholarship recipients. It also donated essential security items to local governments in the Edo South Senatorial District.
Items donated for the use of local security operatives included 50 motorcycles with helmets, one branded Toyota Sienna Van, 1,400 branded shirts and fez caps, 1,400 whistles, 200 raincoats and 10 touchlights, aimed to enhance security and community development in the region.
Till date, a total of 99 students have been registered under the two Foundations, with 38 of them graduated and successfully completed their mandatory service year, while the remaining 61 are undergraduates in over 20 tertiary institutions.