NIGERIA: Kogi State Disburses Over N316 Million Bursary Scholarships to 8,750 Students

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

The Kogi State Government has commenced the disbursement of over N316 million in bursary scholarships to 8,750 undergraduate students who are indigenes of the state.

The initiative, facilitated by the Kogi State Scholarship Board, aims to alleviate financial burdens and promote academic excellence among the state’s students in universities across the country.

Students who apply and are verified, 8,549 of them will receive N30,000 each, totaling N256.47 million, while 201 law students enrolled in the Nigerian Law School will be awarded N300,000 each, amounting to N60.3 million.

The disbursement announcement was unveiled on Friday at the Government House in Lokoja by Governor Ahmed Ododo, represented by his Deputy, Mr. Joel Salifu.

The governor described the initiative as a vital investment in education, emphasising its role in empowering students to focus on their studies.

He said: “Today, we are disbursing N30,000 to 8,549 undergraduates as part of this year’s bursary scheme. Additionally, 201 law students will each receive N300,000,” the governor stated.

“This initiative, costing the state over N316 million, is a necessary investment in our future and will become an annual event under my administration,” he added.

Governor Ododo further highlighted the enactment of an Education Law in the state, which will mandate substantial government support for education.

He reiterated that education is a right, not a privilege.

He also announced a policy to grant automatic employment to the best-graduating students from tertiary institutions in the state.

Governor Ododo, however, urged students to actively participate in discussions and actions that promote Kogi State’s development.

He added; “We are striving to make Kogi the industrial capital of Nigeria and a hub of excellence in the digital economy. While we do our part, we expect you to do yours.”

The governor further warned against cultism and other social vices, urging students to focus on utilising the opportunities provided to secure their future.

The state’s Commissioner for Education, Mr. Wemi Jones, commended Governor Ododo for prioritizing education and building on the solid foundation laid by his predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello.

He noted that the bursary and scholarship initiatives would transform the lives of Kogi students and empower them for a brighter future.

The Executive Chairman of the Kogi State Scholarship Board, Mr. Afolabi Joseph-Raji, also expressed gratitude to the governor, emphasising that the financial support would significantly ease the financial burdens of parents and students.