The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Otuaro, has congratulated the Founder of Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation, Mrs Esther Tonlagha, on her conferment with an Honorary Doctorate of Science (D.Sc) Degree in Community Development and Empowerment by the Federal University, Otuoke.
The honoree is the wife of Engr. Matthew Tonlagha, an accomplished Ijaw businessman with huge investments in oil and gas, and engineering solutions in various sectors.
She was presented with the award in recognition of her exceptional contributions to community development and empowerment, during the maiden combined convocation ceremonies of the university held on 8 December, 2025 at Otuoke in Bayelsa State.
Otuaro noted that the honour was a testament to Mrs Tonlagha’s unwavering commitment and dedication to community development and empowerment through her foundation.
He described Mrs Tonlagha as an amazon and a philanthropist with a large heart, whose selfless service to community and humanity resonates across the Niger Delta and beyond.
Otuaro described the honour as well-deserved as shown by her bold antecedents, and expressed the hope that it would motivate her to do more for society.
He said he is not surprised that Mrs Tonlagha, a devout Christian, has given due priority to the service of humanity.
The PAP Administrator also lauded the management of Federal University, Otuoke, for recognizing Mrs Tonlagha’s selfless service, life of sacrifice, remarkable achievements, and the commendable work of her foundation.
