On September 20, 2026, Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for introducing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), a significant intervention aimed at expanding access to higher education for Nigerian students. The Governor made this statement at the 2nd and 3rd Combined Convocation Ceremony of Al-Istiqama University, Sumaila, where 1,104 students graduated from various academic programs.
Governor Yusuf emphasized that the Federal Government's support for the education sector, particularly through NELFUND, would provide students and their parents with greater opportunities to finance tertiary education and reduce financial barriers that could prevent qualified young Nigerians from pursuing higher education. He expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, under President Tinubu's leadership, for its immense support for the education sector.
The Governor urged the graduands to translate the knowledge and skills acquired during their academic journey into productive ventures and meaningful contributions to their communities, Kano State, and Nigeria at large. He also commended the management and staff of Al-Istiqama University for their contributions to the development of higher education in Kano State and for providing young Nigerians with opportunities to pursue tertiary education.
Governor Yusuf highlighted that investments in education constitute investments in the future of Kano State and Nigeria, noting that a well-educated and skilled population remains essential to achieving sustainable development, economic growth, and social progress. He congratulated the graduands on their successful completion of their studies and urged them to uphold discipline, integrity, and the values acquired during their academic journey.
The Governor further encouraged the graduands to embrace innovation, entrepreneurship, and lifelong learning, stressing the importance of acquiring relevant skills that would enable them to respond effectively to contemporary challenges and contribute to the development of their communities. This, he believes, will enable them to use their education to contribute positively to society.
Earlier, the Proprietor of Al-Istiqama University, Senator Abdulrahman Kawu Sumaila, shared the vision behind establishing the university in a rural area of Kano State. He disclosed that the decision was a deliberate and mission-driving choice to curb rural migration to urban centers in search of higher education and opportunities.
Senator Kawu Sumaila noted that by bringing a university of international standards to the rural area, they are reversing the trend of rapid rural to urban migration and empowering local youth, boosting the rural economy, and creating a sustainable ecosystem where knowledge is strong at home. He acknowledged the efforts of selfless leaders, reliable elders, institutions, and government in realizing this dream.
Key points
- President Bola Ahmed Tinubu introduces the Nigerian Education Loan Fund to support students in financing tertiary education.
- Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf commends President Tinubu's initiative, citing its potential to increase access to higher education.
- Al-Istiqama University, Sumaila, graduates 1,104 students from various academic programs at its 2nd and 3rd Combined Convocation Ceremony.
