In a powerful show of commitment to education and youth empowerment, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has approved a ₦1 billion annual bursary scheme for all Edo indigenes studying in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.
The bold initiative, announced just months into his tenure, was born out of a passionate plea by Edo youths during a recent town hall meeting with the governor. Moved by their voices and determined to act, Okpebholo wasted no time in turning promises into policy.
The chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua in a statement quoted the him to have indicated that,
“This is not a handout—it’s an investment in the future of our state,” Governor Okpebholo declared. “No student of Edo origin should have to abandon their education because of financial hardship. We are lifting that burden.”
The bursary, now set to become a yearly intervention, is designed to ease the cost of education for thousands of students from Edo State pursuing degrees in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. It will cover verified applicants through a transparent screening process managed by their respective Local Government Areas, ensuring that the funds reach genuine Edo indigenes.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that the initiative is part of a larger vision to expand access to education, promote academic excellence, and empower the next generation of leaders from Edo.
“Young people are the engine of growth,” he said. “When we invest in their dreams, we secure the future of Edo.”
Reactions have been swift and overwhelmingly positive. Student leaders, parent groups, and civil society organisations have praised the move as visionary and timely, especially in the face of rising education costs and economic challenges.
Further details—including application timelines, required documentation, and disbursement processes—will be released soon by the relevant state agencies.
With this landmark decision, Governor Okpebholo is not just writing cheques—he’s rewriting the narrative for Edo students, one bursary at a time.
Governor Monday Okpebholo
