“What Esther Tonlagha Did to Earn a Doctorate Without a Classroom — Otuaro Explains”
By Paul Ebi
Otuoke — The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, has congratulated the Founder of the 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.
Mrs. Tonlagha received the prestigious honour during the maiden combined convocation ceremonies of the university held on December 8, 2025, at Otuoke, Bayelsa State. The award was bestowed in recognition of her outstanding contributions to grassroots development, social empowerment, and humanitarian service through her foundation.
The honouree is the wife of Engr. Matthew Tonlagha, a prominent Ijaw businessman with significant investments in oil and gas as well as engineering solutions across various sectors of the economy.
In a congratulatory message, Dr. Otuaro described the recognition as a fitting tribute to Mrs. Tonlagha’s unwavering dedication to community development and the upliftment of vulnerable groups, particularly within the Niger Delta region.
He hailed her as “an amazon and a philanthropist with a large heart,” noting that her selfless service to humanity has earned her respect and admiration far beyond Bayelsa State.
According to the PAP Administrator, the honorary doctorate is well-deserved, given Mrs. Tonlagha’s bold antecedents and consistent commitment to improving lives through education, empowerment initiatives, and social interventions.
“I am not surprised by this honour,” Otuaro said, adding that Mrs. Tonlagha’s strong Christian faith has clearly influenced her passion for service to humanity and community transformation.
He further expressed optimism that the recognition would inspire her to scale up her humanitarian efforts and continue making a positive impact on society.
Dr. Otuaro also commended the management of the Federal University, Otuoke, for identifying and celebrating Mrs. Tonlagha’s selfless service, life of sacrifice, remarkable achievements, and the impactful work of the Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation.
The congratulatory message was signed by Mr. Igoniko Oduma, Special Assistant on Media to the Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme, and dated December 12, 2025.
