On September 23, 2026, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, launched the 2026 bursary, scholarship and financial assistance programme for students of Ondo State origin. The programme, which took place at the Cocoa Conference Centre of the Governor’s Office in Akure, aims to support 13,360 students in tertiary institutions across Nigeria. A total of N400m has been approved for the scheme, which includes bursaries, scholarships, and financial assistance for students in various categories.
The beneficiaries of the programme comprise 11,907 bursary recipients, 614 scholarship beneficiaries, 239 Law School students, 500 medical students undergoing clinical training, and 100 physically challenged students receiving financial assistance. According to Governor Aiyedatiwa, education is the foundation of sustainable development and a key component of his administration's "OUR EASE" development agenda. The governor emphasized that his administration has made strategic investments in the children, communities, and future of the state.
The 2026 Budget of Economic Consolidation has provided substantial resources for education, including the construction and rehabilitation of 500 basic schools. Additionally, the administration has commenced its Digital Literacy Programme, which involves the distribution of digital tablets to students in 50 public schools. The programme aims to equip students with digital skills needed to navigate an increasingly technology-driven world.
Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that the government is also investing in teachers and has recently recognised outstanding students, teachers, and NYSC award recipients. The governor's commitment to education is further demonstrated by the release of N633.918m for the payment of 2026 WASSCE registration fees for students in public secondary schools across the state.
The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, lauded Governor Aiyedatiwa for approving N400m for the 2026 bursary, scholarship, and financial assistance programme. Ajibefun described the programme as a demonstration of the governor's commitment to the educational development, welfare, and empowerment of students of Ondo State origin.
Furthermore, Governor Aiyedatiwa has approved the immediate implementation of the Federal Government's agreement with unions on the new salary structure in the state's tertiary institutions. This move is accompanied by a substantial increase in subvention to enable the institutions to implement the structure. These initiatives demonstrate the governor's dedication to improving the education sector in Ondo State.
The programme is a significant step towards supporting students of Ondo State origin in achieving their educational goals. With the disbursement of N400m, the governor's administration is providing much-needed financial assistance to students in tertiary institutions across Nigeria. The initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of the beneficiaries and their families.
Key points
- Governor Aiyedatiwa's administration has approved N400m for the 2026 bursary, scholarship, and financial assistance programme to support 13,360 students of Ondo State origin.
- The programme includes bursaries, scholarships, and financial assistance for students in various categories, including Law School students, medical students, and physically challenged students.
- The governor's administration has made significant investments in education, including the construction and rehabilitation of 500 basic schools and the implementation of a Digital Literacy Programme.
