Edo State Governor Approves ₦1 Billion Annual Bursary for Students in Tertiary Institutions

In a bold move to ease the financial burden on students and promote higher education, the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved an annual bursary scheme worth ₦1 billion for indigenes of the state enrolled in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

The announcement was made in a statement released by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Fred Itua, following a recent town hall meeting with youths in Benin City.

During the meeting, several youth representatives appealed to the state government to provide financial relief for Edo students pursuing academic programs at universities, polytechnics, and other tertiary institutions nationwide. In response, Governor Okpebholo committed to launching the bursary initiative as a means to directly support students and reduce the financial strain on their families.

According to the governor, the bursary will be disbursed annually and will serve as a key component of his administration’s broader strategy to foster educational development, promote academic excellence, and empower the youth population of Edo State.

To ensure only qualified candidates benefit from the scheme, eligibility will be verified through the applicants’ local government areas of origin. This verification process will help maintain the integrity of the program and ensure the funds are allocated exclusively to bonafide Edo indigenes.

Governor Okpebholo also noted that detailed guidelines, including application procedures and timelines, will be released soon by the relevant state agencies to ensure a transparent and efficient rollout of the bursary scheme.

This initiative adds to the administration’s growing portfolio of youth-focused programs aimed at building a stronger, more educated, and self-reliant generation in Edo State.