Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved a fresh scholarship package worth over N730 million for indigenes of the state studying in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
The governor made the approval public during a cheque presentation ceremony at the Ministry of Education’s Quality Assurance office in Maiduguri, where the funds were officially handed over to the Borno State Scholarship Board. The cheque was presented on his behalf by the Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Engineer Lawan Abba Wakilbe.
According to the commissioner, the scholarship scheme will benefit 26,888 undergraduate students, with disbursement set to begin immediately. He explained that this new intervention is part of the Zulum administration’s wider investment in education, noting that over N8 billion has already been spent on scholarships in 2024 alone, covering both local and overseas studies.
Wakilbe advised students to carefully verify their bank account details to avoid failed transactions, warning that unsuccessful payments could lead to redirection of the funds. He also encouraged students to explore other opportunities such as the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), stressing that education remains the strongest tool for empowerment in Borno State.
Read Also:
- Gov. Zulum urges varsity council on research for post-insurgency recovery
- Gov. Zulum launches new strategy to boost vocational education in Borno
- Gov. Zulum refutes Sowore’s accusations of operating a torture facility
The gesture has drawn wide praise from student groups. The National President of the National Union of Borno State Students (NUBOSS), Abdullahi Ahmadu Umara, hailed Governor Zulum for what he described as an “unshakable commitment” to student welfare and educational growth.
In a symbolic show of gratitude, student representative Abba Ali Abba Gana announced that Governor Zulum will be honoured with the title “Student-Friendly Governor,” while Commissioner Wakilbe will be recognized as the “Architect of Modern Education,” for their joint efforts in transforming the future of young people in Borno.
This latest N730 million scholarship approval further cements Zulum’s reputation as one of the most education-focused governors in Nigeria, underscoring his resolve to empower a new generation of leaders through accessible and affordable education.