Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to educational development by presenting a N5 million complementary scholarship to Favour Oluwatimilehin Adebayo, a distinguished student from the state who recently secured the prestigious European Union ERASMUS+ Scholarship.
The award was presented during a press briefing at the Kogi State Ministry of Education, showcasing the Governor’s ongoing efforts to support academic excellence and provide financial assistance to deserving students.
Represented by the Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones, Governor Ododo praised Miss Adebayo’s determination, hard work, and academic achievements, which have earned her the opportunity to pursue advanced studies in Poland.
Favour, who began her higher education journey at Nasarawa State University, won the ERASMUS+ Scholarship through a competitive academic exchange program. This recognition places her among the top-performing students selected for the European Union’s renowned initiative, which funds outstanding scholars for studies across European universities.
Hon. Wemi Jones, speaking on behalf of the Governor, highlighted the importance of this scholarship as a testament to the state’s focus on nurturing young talents. “Favour’s success story is a source of pride for Kogi State.
Her achievement aligns with our vision of promoting excellence and ensuring that our students are recognized and supported, not just within Nigeria but globally,” Jones stated. The Commissioner noted that the N5 million award is meant to supplement her ERASMUS+ funding, covering additional expenses such as accommodation and other academic needs, thereby allowing her to fully focus on her studies.
Further demonstrating the state’s dedication to education, Governor Ododo also approved a massive N316 million bursary fund aimed at supporting Kogi State students in tertiary institutions across the country. This financial aid package is designed to ease the economic burden faced by students and their families, ensuring that no student is forced to drop out due to financial constraints.
According to Hon. Jones, a total of 8,750 undergraduates from Kogi State have been cleared to receive the bursary, with each student set to receive N30,000. This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the state government to improve educational outcomes and make higher education more accessible. In a bid to further support students pursuing specialized fields, the Governor also approved an enhanced bursary for law students. Each of the 201 Kogi State indigenes currently studying at various law schools across the country will receive N300,000, amounting to a total disbursement of N60.3 million for this category.
Hon. Jones noted that this additional support reflects the administration’s recognition of the rigorous demands and high costs associated with legal education. “Law students face unique challenges, and this bursary is designed to provide them with the financial backing needed to succeed in their studies and contribute effectively to the legal profession,” he explained.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of the Kogi State Scholarship Board, Mr. Afolabi Joseph Raji, commended the state government’s proactive stance in supporting students.
He emphasized that the scholarship and bursary programs are part of the Governor’s comprehensive plan to invest in the human capital development of Kogi State. “Our goal is to ensure that every Kogi student who demonstrates academic potential has the opportunity to reach their full potential. The financial support provided through these initiatives will help alleviate the economic pressures faced by students, enabling them to focus on their studies and achieve academic excellence,” Raji said.
Favour Oluwatimilehin Adebayo, represented by her father, Moses Adebayo, expressed immense gratitude to Governor Ododo and his administration for the generous support. In her response, she praised the government’s continued efforts to enhance the educational sector, noting that such initiatives are critical in building the state’s future and empowering the next generation of leaders. “This scholarship is a significant encouragement, not just for me but for other students who aspire to excel academically. It shows that hard work and excellence are recognized and rewarded in Kogi State,” she remarked.
The European Union’s ERASMUS+ program is one of the most competitive academic exchange initiatives globally, offering funding for outstanding students to study at top universities across Europe. Favour’s participation in this program is a milestone achievement, reflecting her academic prowess and the quality of education she received. Her journey from Nasarawa State University to studying in Poland is a testament to her dedication and the supportive environment fostered by the Kogi State government.
