Member representing Akwanga North constituency at the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Mr Larry Ven-Bawa, has earmarked N20 million for disbursement to over 670 students of his constituency studying in various institutions across the country.
The lawmaker said the intervention was aimed at complementing the efforts of Governor Abdullahi Sule, as well as parents and guardians, in supporting the education of their children and wards.
Ven-Bawa disclosed this on Wednesday while disbursing the funds to beneficiaries under the Hon Ven-Bawa 3rd Edition of the Annual Value Addition Scholarship and Empowerment Scheme 2026 held in Akwanga Local Government Area.
Speaking at the event, Ven-Bawa, who is the Chief Whip of the House, said the programme was designed to add value to the lives of students and the general wellbeing of people in his constituency.
“This is the third edition of this programme under Hon. Ven-Bawa 3rd Edition of the Annual Value Addition Scholarship and Empowerment Scheme.
“This is to complement and support your parents and guardians’ efforts in your education.
“Gov. Sule has given premium to education and every year, the education budget is high.
“I want to join your parents and guardians in the fight against illiteracy, as education is the bedrock of every society,” he said.
The lawmaker further stated that there was no greater legacy that could be given to a child than access to quality education, noting that education remained critical to personal growth and community development.
According to him, 400 undergraduate students would receive N15,000 each, 100 NCE and Diploma students would receive N10,000 each, while 50 postgraduate students would receive N20,000 each under the scheme.
Ven-Bawa assured constituents of his continued commitment to initiating people-oriented policies and programmes that would have direct impact on students and residents of Akwanga North constituency.
He urged beneficiaries to ensure judicious use of the funds to improve their academic performance and contribute positively to raising the standard of education in the area.
The lawmaker also advised students to shun examination malpractices, cultism and other negative tendencies that could hinder their academic progress and future aspirations.
He called on the people of the constituency to continue to support President Bola Tinubu, Governor Sule and other leaders to enable them succeed in delivering good governance.
Also speaking, Alhaji Safiyanu Isa, ALGON Chairman and Chairman of Akwanga Local Government Area, alongside Mr Kwanta Yakubu, Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, commended Ven-Bawa for consistently sustaining the scholarship initiative.
They said the gesture would significantly reduce the burden of school fees on parents and guardians and help improve educational standards within the constituency.
The leaders also passed a vote of confidence on the leadership of Ven-Bawa.
Similarly, Prof. Sada’atu Liman, Vice-Chancellor of NSUK, represented by Prof. Usman Gbari, Mr Abbas Liman, APC Chairman in Akwanga LGA, and Mr Ezekiel Jonathan, Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Students, praised the lawmaker for prioritising students’ welfare.
They called on students and residents to support him to succeed beyond 2027.
Responding on behalf of beneficiaries, Aishatu Zubairu and Usman Abdullahi thanked Ven-Bawa for the gesture and prayed for God’s blessings, assuring him of their continued support beyond 2027.
