The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro, has commended the Founder of the Esther Matthew Tonlagha Foundation, Mrs. Esther Matthew Tonlagha, following her conferment with an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Community Development and Empowerment by the Federal University, Otuoke, Bayelsa State.
Mrs. Tonlagha received the honour during the university’s maiden combined convocation ceremony held on December 8, 2025, in recognition of her sustained contributions to grassroots development and humanitarian empowerment through her foundation. She is the wife of Engr. Matthew Tonlagha, a prominent Ijaw entrepreneur with major interests in oil and gas as well as engineering services.
Reacting to the recognition, Mr. Igoniko Oduma, Special Assistant on Media to the PAP Administrator, quoted Dr. Otuaro as describing the award as a clear reflection of Mrs. Tonlagha’s dedication, compassion, and consistent service to humanity. According to him, the PAP Administrator noted that her philanthropic efforts have continued to touch lives across the Niger Delta and beyond.
Dr. Otuaro further described Mrs. Tonlagha as “a woman of uncommon courage and generosity,” whose passion for community development aligns with the broader goals of empowerment and social responsibility.
He expressed confidence that the honorary doctorate would further inspire her to expand her humanitarian initiatives, adding that her strong Christian values have remained evident in her commitment to serving the less privileged.
The PAP Administrator also applauded the management of the Federal University, Otuoke, for what he described as a timely and thoughtful recognition of Mrs. Tonlagha’s selfless service, life of sacrifice, and the impactful work of her foundation.