The Federal Government has partnered with the Aliko Dangote Foundation to establish a N100 billion annual education scholarship fund**, designed to expand access to quality education for Nigerian students across all levels. The initiative was officially unveiled in Lagos during a ceremony attended by **Vice President Kashim Shettima** and other senior government officials.
The scholarship fund represents a significant public-private collaboration aimed at tackling long-standing challenges in human capital development, particularly the persistent gaps in educational access and affordability. According to government officials, the program will provide financial support to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, enabling them to pursue tertiary, technical, and vocational education without financial constraints.
Vice President Shettima described the partnership as a milestone in the country’s commitment to nurturing a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving global economy. “Investing in education is investing in the future of Nigeria,” he said. “This fund will provide opportunities for talented young Nigerians who might otherwise be denied access to quality learning.”
The Dangote Foundation, led by philanthropist **Aliko Dangote**, emphasized that the initiative aligns with its ongoing focus on human capital development, youth empowerment, and social infrastructure. Representatives noted that the fund will prioritize merit, need, and inclusivity, ensuring that students from all regions of the country can benefit.
Education stakeholders have welcomed the announcement, highlighting its potential to reduce dropout rates, improve academic outcomes, and foster innovation. Analysts note that the fund could serve as a model for sustainable public-private partnerships in the Nigerian education sector, complementing government efforts to meet Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
The government and Dangote Foundation confirmed that the fund will begin disbursements in the coming academic year, with a transparent application process to be outlined in the coming weeks.
