First Lady Awards N47m Scholarships and Laptops to Nigerian ND/HND Undergraduates

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has boosted access to higher education by awarding N47 million in scholarships and laptops to 47 undergraduates through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) scholarship programme. The scheme reflects her commitment to education funding in Nigeria and her vision to empower young Nigerians with both financial support and learning tools.

Each beneficiary, selected from tertiary institutions across Nigeria, received N1 million in tuition support along with a brand-new laptop to enhance their academic work. The awardees cut across different levels of study — from 200 to 400 levels as well as a National Diploma student — and represent diverse courses such as medicine, law, engineering, sciences, education, and the humanities.

Service to Humanity, Not Politics

Speaking during the award ceremony, Mrs. Tinubu emphasized that the programme was founded on service to humanity rather than politics.

“This scheme is about people’s lives, not politics. It is about raising successful students who will be productive and add value to society. While we provide scholarships, I encourage you to also seek ways to grow, learn extra skills, and explore opportunities that do not interfere with your education,” she said.

The First Lady noted that the scholarship scheme, launched in 2023, was designed to support undergraduates with tuition fees and digital tools until they complete their studies. She encouraged students to maximize the opportunity by being innovative, acquiring skills, and even venturing into small-scale businesses to boost their financial independence.

Calls for Innovation and Self-Reliance

Mrs. Tinubu urged recipients to develop entrepreneurial mindsets and think beyond classroom learning.

“To those of you who have started small businesses, stay consistent and you will earn more. For others, learn a skill that can give you an extra source of income without affecting your academics,” she advised.

The event also featured contributions from other leaders of the RHI programme. The wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima, described the scholarship as a “unique opportunity” and encouraged students to remain focused on their education. Similarly, the wife of the Imo State Governor, Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma, advised beneficiaries to adopt a culture of saving, while the wife of the Kwara State Governor, Ambassador Olufolake Abdulrazaq, recommended that students explore opportunities in research and academic support roles if entrepreneurship is not their strength.

Government Bursaries and Education Funding in Nigeria

Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, applauded the First Lady’s scholarship scheme, noting that it complements the federal government’s efforts in expanding scholarships and bursaries for Nigerian students.

According to him, the Tinubu administration has already awarded 12,434 bursary grants worth N10 billion and N4 billion in scholarships to over 8,500 students. He added that the federal government is prioritizing STEM disciplines, pointing out that more than half of the RHI beneficiaries are studying medicine, nursing, engineering, and food science.

He also highlighted the impact of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which has disbursed over N100 billion in student loans to more than 500,000 beneficiaries.

“The repayment is structured to begin only after graduation, NYSC, and employment — capped at 10% of the graduate’s salary. This ensures no student is denied access to higher education due to financial barriers,” Dr. Alausa explained.

Scholarships as a Tool for National Development

Also speaking at the event, the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Abdullahi, described the scholarship as “a life-changing package” capable of bridging Nigeria’s educational gaps and nurturing talent for national development.

Through the Renewed Hope Initiative scholarship scheme, Senator Oluremi Tinubu reaffirmed her vision to strengthen Nigeria’s education sector by providing tuition support, digital tools, and entrepreneurial encouragement for students. The programme not only reduces the financial stress on undergraduates but also inspires them to think innovatively and contribute meaningfully to society.