Dangote Foundation Offers Students Free Shares To Create New Generation Of Investors

The Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) has launched a Student Share Grant Initiative to help young Nigerians begin their investment journey early, deepen financial literacy, and encourage long-term wealth creation.

The initiative, open to students aged 18 years and above in public and private tertiary institutions across Nigeria, will introduce young people to saving, responsible investing and ownership through direct participation in the ongoing Initial Public Offering (IPO) of Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE (DPRP).

Under the programme, an eligible student who completes verification and subscribes for a minimum of 10 DPRP shares through the foundation website will qualify for the Foundation to fund an additional 10 DPRP shares in the student’s name at no extra cost.

Chairman of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, said the programme is designed to give young Nigerians a meaningful introduction to investment and ownership.

“Supporting young people goes beyond providing access to education. It must also involve equipping them with the knowledge and opportunities to participate in economic growth and wealth creation. Through this initiative, we want students to understand the value of saving, responsible investing and long-term ownership. Our goal is to help them develop an investment mindset early in life,” he said.

According to him, early exposure to investment opportunities can significantly influence future financial decisions and encourage greater participation in the formal economy.

“When young people understand ownership and investment early, they are better positioned to make informed financial choices, build wealth responsibly and contribute more actively to economic development.”

The chief executive officer of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Mrs Zouera Youssoufou, said the initiative bridges the gap between financial education and practical experience.

“Financial literacy becomes more impactful when people can apply what they learn. This programme allows eligible students to experience first-hand how the investment process works, from verification and subscription to allotment and ownership, while reinforcing the importance of responsible participation in the capital market,” she said.

She added that the Foundation’s objective extends beyond a single IPO transaction to inspiring lifelong interest in financial literacy, investing and asset ownership.

ADF clarified that the initiative is a standalone Foundation programme to promote financial literacy and is voluntary.