Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has approved the disbursement of scholarships and bursaries to 28,346 Yobe indigenes enrolled in tertiary institutions across Nigeria—an intervention widely regarded as one of the most significant educational support packages by any state government in recent years.
The approval reinforces Governor Buni’s continued investment in youth development, educational access and human capital growth, which he has repeatedly described as the foundation for sustainable prosperity.
The Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Scholarship Board (YSSB), Dr. Kagu Abubakar, confirmed that Yobe State University accounts for 7,636 beneficiaries, the highest number recorded, reflecting both the institution’s expansion and rising tertiary enrolment among Yobe students.
Students across universities, polytechnics, colleges of education and other specialized institutions nationwide are captured in the verified beneficiary list.
In a major boost to student welfare, Governor Buni has also approved a 100 percent increase in all scholarship categories. Under the revised structure: PGDE, Master’s, and PhD students will now receive ₦110,000, up from ₦55,000, Undergraduates will receive ₦46,000, up from ₦23,000, HND, NCE, and National Diploma students will receive ₦34,000, up from ₦17,000 while Students in Diploma, Certificate and Consultancy programmes will receive ₦26,000, instead of ₦13,000 previously.
Dr. Kagu explained that the increment is Governor Buni’s response to the rising cost of education and economic pressures affecting students and their families.
To guarantee smooth implementation, the Scholarship Board convened a joint stakeholders’ session featuring representatives of the House Committee on Higher Education, the Ministry of Higher Education, student leaders, and education focal persons.
The session reviewed operational guidelines, harmonized timelines and resolved logistical concerns to ensure a seamless disbursement process both within and outside the state.
Dr. Kagu stated that the names, admission profiles, and academic records of all successful applicants will be submitted to their respective institutions and recognized student bodies.
A comprehensive disbursement timetable will be released to avoid congestion, promote orderliness and curb potential abuses.
The Executive Secretary relayed the appreciation of beneficiaries, parents and guardians to Governor Buni for sustaining what many describe as one of the most impactful social investments in the state.
He added that the scholarship scheme has significantly improved school retention rates and supported thousands of indigent but academically gifted students across Yobe.
Dr. Kagu assured that the Scholarship Board’s Public Relations Office will continue to provide regular updates, emphasizing the Board’s commitment to transparency, accountability and timely service delivery.
