The recipients, drawn from tertiary institutions across the country, are studying in diverse fields including medicine, law, agriculture, engineering, sciences, education, and the humanities.
“This is About People’s Lives”
Addressing the beneficiaries, Mrs. Tinubu explained that the scholarship was part of her personal commitment to empowering young Nigerians and not driven by political considerations.
“This is not about politics; it is about people’s lives,” she said. “Before I got married, I sold clothes to sustain myself. In the same way, I urge you to think about what you can add to the table. You can grow and still find extra things to do without hindering your studies.”
She assured that the programme would be sustained, giving students the stability to complete their studies. “We have given you two years of grace, and some of you have two more years to complete your studies. We pray that the President will have a second term so that we can continue,” she added.
Government’s Broader Education Drive
Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa, commended the First Lady’s initiative for complementing government programmes. He noted that in the past two years, the Tinubu administration had awarded over 12,000 bursaries worth about ₦10 billion and ₦4 billion in scholarships to more than 8,500 students nationwide.
He stressed the administration’s focus on STEM education, pointing out that 55 percent of the new RHI awardees are enrolled in medicine, nursing, engineering, and food science. Alausa also highlighted the rollout of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund, which has so far disbursed about ₦100 billion to over 500,000 students.
“You don’t pay back until after you graduate, finish NYSC, and secure a job — and even then, only a maximum of 10 percent of your salary,” the minister explained.
“A Life-Changing Package”
Congratulating the awardees, Chioma Uzodimma, National Secretary of RHI and wife of the Imo State Governor, said the 2025 batch followed earlier cohorts supported in 2023 and 2024. “Today’s 47 beneficiaries each receive ₦1 million annually plus a brand-new laptop. We wish you success in your academic session,” she said.
The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Abdullahi, described the scheme as “a life-changing package” capable of nurturing talent and bridging educational gaps nationwide.
A High-Profile Gathering
The ceremony drew several dignitaries, including Hajia Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President and National Vice Chairman of RHI; Mrs. Salamatu Gbajabiamila, wife of the Chief of Staff to the President; the wife of the Kwara State Governor and Chairperson of the Governors’ Wives Forum; and other leading figures in government and education.
With the latest round of awards, the Renewed Hope Initiative is cementing its role as a platform for investing in Nigeria’s next generation — not just through financial support, but also by emphasizing resilience, skills, and a culture of service.