BY OSATOHANMWEN ISERHIENRHEN 

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has approved a ₦1 billion annual bursary scheme for students of Edo State origin enrolled in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

The approval, announced barely eight months into Governor Okpebholo’s administration, follows his pledge during a recent town hall meeting with Edo youths to address the growing concerns over the cost of higher education. 

At the interactive session, various youth leaders had passionately appealed for government intervention to ease the financial burdens faced by indigenes pursuing degrees nationwide.

Governor Okpebholo stated that the bursary programme, which is expected to become an annual initiative, is designed to support students and their families while promoting access to quality education. 

He noted that eligibility would require proper verification through applicants’ Local Government of Origin to ensure that only bona fide Edo indigenes benefit from the scheme.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to empowering young people through education,” Governor Okpebholo said. 

“By investing in their future, we are strengthening the foundations for Edo State’s sustainable development.”

He stressed that the bursary aligns with his administration’s broader vision of fostering academic excellence and creating opportunities for youths to contribute meaningfully to the state and the nation.

Government agencies will soon release detailed guidelines on application procedures and timelines for interested students.