The Ondo State Government has approved the release of N350 million for the 2025 scholarship and bursary scheme to support indigenes of the state in various higher institutions across Nigeria.
In a statement released on Tuesday in Akure, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Mr Ebenezer Adeniyan, explained that the funds will cover about 12,000 students. He noted that the beneficiaries include medical students, law students, and students with disabilities.
The governor described the approval as an upgrade from 2024 when N335 million was distributed to 11,200 students. He added that the state had previously increased the annual bursary allowance from N10,000 to N20,000 in 2024, while students with disabilities received N75,000 each and scholarship beneficiaries got N100,000 each.
“My administration recognises education as the cornerstone for development. It is the key to unlocking the potential of young people. Many of our students face significant financial challenges in pursuing their academic dreams. That is why we have these bursaries and scholarship awards, as well as financial assistance, to provide support, alleviate financial burdens, and enable our students to focus on their studies,” Aiyedatiwa stated.
He stressed that the awards are proof of his government’s strong commitment to the future of both Ondo State and Nigeria at large.
“We must ensure that our students have access to quality education and the necessary support to excel in their academic pursuits,” he added.
The initiative is regarded as part of efforts to strengthen education funding in the state, ensuring that young people have the support required to achieve their goals. The focus on medical and law students, as well as persons with disabilities, also reflects a push for inclusive and professional development.
It should be recalled that on August 27, the government announced a ban on graduation ceremonies in private nursery, primary, and junior secondary schools. It also prohibited illegal and unregistered schools while halting reaccreditation of private schools as part of quality assurance reforms.
