By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved over seven hundred and thirty million naira (N730,000,000) for scholarships to support Borno indigenes studying in various institutions across the country.
The Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, officially handed over the cheque on behalf of Governor Zulum to the Borno State Scholarship Board during a ceremony held at the Quality Assurance office of the Ministry on Monday.
In a statement by the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on New Media, Abdurrahman Bundi, Engr. Wakilbe explained that the scholarship program, once fully implemented, is expected to benefit 26,888 indigenous undergraduates, with payments set to commence immediately.
The commissioner further disclosed that Zulum’s administration has spent over N8 billion on scholarships in 2024 alone, supporting students both within Nigeria and abroad.
Wakilbe also provided a breakdown of the scholarship allocations, urging the students to work diligently to justify the government’s substantial investment in their education. He encouraged students to ensure the accuracy of their bank details to avoid transaction issues, warning that any failed payments would be reallocated for other purposes.
Additionally, the commissioner urged students to explore opportunities through NELFUND, challenging student leaders to make full use of the available resources.
Abdullahi Ahmadu Umara, the National President of the National Union of Borno State Students (NUBOSS), expressed gratitude to Governor Zulum for his steadfast commitment to education.
On the sidelines of the event, one of the students, Abba Ali Abba Gana, announced plans to honor the Governor with the title of “Student-Friendly Governor” and the Commissioner as the “Architect of Modern Education” in recognition of their dedication to advancing education in Borno State.
