JUST IN: FG increases scholarship grant

The Federal Government has approved a 50% increase in national scholarship grants for students across all academic levels, as part of a sweeping reform to improve access to quality education and drive human capital development.

Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, announced the development via his official Twitter handle on Wednesday, describing it as the most ambitious overhaul of the scholarship system in over a decade. The move aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Under the revised scheme:

PhD students will now receive ₦750,000 annually (up from ₦500,000),

Master’s students will get ₦600,000 (up from ₦400,000),

Undergraduate, HND, and NCE students will receive ₦450,000 (up from ₦300,000).

The updated awards apply to major federal scholarship programmes, including the Nigerian Scholarship Award, and are backed by a ₦6 billion budget for the 2025–2026 academic year.

In addition, the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) scheme has been restructured. While ongoing international beneficiaries will continue receiving funds, new BEA funds have been redirected to two new national scholarship categories:

₦1 billion for STEM and vocational students in public polytechnics,

₦1 billion for medical and health-related students in public universities.

A revised allocation formula will see:

50% of scholarships going to undergraduates,

25% to master’s students,

25% to PhD candidates.

Of each category, 70% will be awarded to students in STEMM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine), while 30% will support the Social Sciences. In a bid to promote inclusivity, 5% of all awards will be reserved for students with disabilities.

Over 15,000 students are expected to benefit. The Federal Scholarship Board will oversee implementation, with support from an Inter-Ministerial Committee comprising representatives from key government bodies to ensure transparency.

“This is more than a policy—it’s a strategic investment in our youth and our future,” Dr. Alausa stated.