Bauchi Releases ₦800m Scholarship Fund, Sponsors 100 Indigenes Abroad

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has approved ₦945,250,000 for the 2024/2025 scholarship programme for indigenes of the state, with ₦800 million already released to beneficiaries across Nigerian tertiary institutions.

National President of the National Union of Bauchi State Students (NUBASS), Bello Ibrahim, disclosed this at a press briefing on Tuesday, describing the intervention as historic in both scale and impact.

According to him, 21,901 students applied, with 19,546 verified beneficiaries receiving ₦801,263,200 across 154 tertiary institutions. He added that the balance of ₦145,250,000 would soon be cleared.

“For years, scholarship payments were riddled with delays and uncertainty, leaving many students struggling. Today, under Governor Bala Mohammed, it has become a source of trust and reassurance,” Ibrahim said.

He further noted that the governor had sponsored 100 Bauchi indigenes for advanced studies in China, with the first batch already on their way. This, he explained, reflects the governor’s commitment to preparing youths for global competitiveness in science, technology, and innovation.

On security, Ibrahim revealed that the union engaged the Bauchi State Police Command over rising insecurity around schools. As a result, a new police station is to be established at Wuntin Dada to protect Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic and nearby communities, alongside increased patrols and surveillance around campuses.

The NUBASS president also highlighted achievements under his leadership, including the renovation of the long-abandoned secretariat, free distribution of JAMB registration pins to indigent students, statewide orientation programmes, and the successful hosting of Bauchi’s first-ever EDUTECH Conference. The union, he added, continues to push for student welfare through scholarship follow-ups, campus tours, and advocacy.

Expressing gratitude to Governor Mohammed, security agencies, and the student community, Ibrahim described the scholarship scheme as “an investment in human capital, the most valuable asset of any society.” He assured that NUBASS would continue to advocate for student welfare while collaborating with stakeholders to secure safer learning environments.