By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh
Lokoja, Nigeria – January 24, 2025
In a bold move to boost education in Kogi State, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, FCA, has commenced the disbursement of over ₦316 million in bursary allowances and scholarship support to students in tertiary institutions across the state. Represented by Deputy Governor Comrade Joel Salifu at the Glass House, Government House, Lokoja, the Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to education as a tool for societal development.
According to a statement by Mr. Emmanuel Unubi, Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, the initiative is aimed at easing the financial burden on students and their families. A total of 8,750 students will receive ₦30,000 each as bursary allowances, while law school students will be granted a higher allowance of ₦300,000 each.
Governor Ododo emphasized the importance of education, stating, “Education remains a critical tool in combating crime and driving development in our society.” He also announced a ₦5 million complementary scholarship for Miss Favour Oluwatimilehin Adebayo, a student who secured the prestigious European Union ERASMUS+ Scholarship.
The Governor encouraged students to remain focused on their studies, avoid distractions, and contribute to the development of Kogi State. He further revealed a policy to grant automatic employment to the top graduates from all state tertiary institutions, underscoring the administration’s dedication to nurturing talent within the state.
Governor Ododo also expressed his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his focus on education, particularly through the Student Loan Initiative.
Transparent Disbursement Process
The Executive Chairman of the Kogi State Scholarship Board, Mr. Afolabi Joseph Raji, commended the Governor’s unwavering support for education. He disclosed that the bursary and scholarship disbursements are entirely free and aimed at alleviating the financial burdens faced by students.
To ensure transparency, the board partnered with Remita to facilitate an electronic payment system. Mr. Raji further noted that students with exceptional academic achievements would have opportunities to pursue scholarships for studies in Western institutions.
Commendations from Educational Leaders
Prof. Salisu Usman Ogbo, Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, applauded the administration for maintaining a stable academic calendar in public institutions. He highlighted Governor Ododo’s ambitious projects and called for postgraduate scholarships, citing examples from states like Kano and Akwa Ibom.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Ojo Jones, and Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Relations, Hon. Onogwu Mohammed, praised the bursary scheme. They described it as a lifeline for students, motivating them to excel academically.
Dr. Mrs. Folashade Arike Ayoade, Secretary to the State Government, also lauded the Governor for prioritizing education. She emphasized that education is a powerful tool for personal and societal growth and encouraged students to take their academics seriously.
This landmark initiative reinforces Kogi State’s commitment to building a brighter future for its youth through quality education and robust support systems.
