Foundation Awards Scholarship To 200 Students

The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SABMF) has reiterated its commitment to education as the foundation presented scholarships to 200 undergraduate students across the 19 northern states and the FCT.

The foundation made a renewed call for greater attention to girl -child education and personal discipline among young Nigerians.

Dr Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, chairman, Board of Trustees (BOT) of the foundation, made the call during the 2025 SABMF Scholarship Awards in Kaduna.

Aliyu, who shared his personal educational experiences, said success in life is tied to perseverance, self-motivation and an understanding of one’s purpose.

He narrated how political pressures during his university days affected his academic pursuit but also shaped his career path.

“I would have loved to say I graduated with a first class, but circumstances did not allow it,” he said.

“Despite the challenges from a personal accident to being drafted by my community to run for the House of Representatives during my final exams, I remained focused and passed both my examinations and election.”

He urged students, especially female scholars, to remain disciplined, choose the right path in life and stay connected to their roots.

“Life is not a competition. Each of us has our lane. Whatever you will be, you will be so long as you remain diligent. Never forget your God, and never forget where you come from,” he said.

In his remarks earlier, the director general of the foundation, Engr. Gambo Abubakar, said education remains one of SABMF’s key intervention areas.

He noted that the foundation awards scholarships to 10 indigent students from each of the 19 Northern states and the FCT making a total of 200 beneficiaries every cycle while ensuring equal opportunities for male and female applicants.

Abubakar explained that students studying science and technology courses receive financial support throughout the duration of their programmes.

According to him, MBBS students receive ₦500,000 for six years, while engineering students receive ₦400,000 for five years

He explains that students on four year courses receive ₦300,000

He noted that since 2012, more than 1,000 students had benefitted from the scholarship, with over 600 graduates, including 46% with first class degrees, 27% with second class upper, and 23% with second-class lower.

He also highlighted the establishment of the SABMF Scholars Forum, designed to provide mentorship, career guidance and professional networking opportunities.

Abubakar appealed for more financial support to expand the programme.

“This year, Kaduna State alone had over 300 applicants, but we could only select 10 due to limited funds. We call on individuals and organisations to support this initiative so more children can benefit,” he said.

In a goodwill message, Alhaji Munnir Jafaru, deputy chairman of the BOT, congratulated the awardees and urged them to utilise the scholarship for academic excellence.

Former governor of Kogi State, Capt. Idris Wada (rtd), said the late Sir Ahmadu Bello’s education policies opened doors for many Northern youths, including himself.

“I became a pilot at an early age because of Sardauna’s policies,” Wada said. “This scholarship is a goldmine do not misuse it. Work hard, be disciplined and be worthy ambassadors of the North.”

Amb. Abubakar Hussaini Mori, another BOT member, said the screening process was rigorous and competitive, moving from more than 6,000 initial applicants to 300 and finally 200 awardees.

He noted that many families in Nigeria still struggle to send their children to school.

“Millions of children remain out of school because their parents cannot afford fees.

The Foundation was established to complement Sardauna’s vision, especially now that state governments are overwhelmed by population growth,” he said.

He prayed for the continued success of the scholarship scheme.

Mr. Timothy Anjide, former Secretary to the Nasarawa State Government and Chairman, Nasarawa Education Trust Fund, reminded the beneficiaries of the legacy of Sir Ahmadu Bello.

“Thousands applied and only a few have been chosen. You must uphold the legacy of service and give back to society,” he said.

Amina Sani Bello, Special Adviser to Gov. Sani on Student Matters, encouraged young girls among the recipients to be proactive and utilise the opportunity to the fullest.

“Girls must take their studies seriously. Use this scholarship to build your future and contribute to the development of your communities,” she advised.

Notable dignitaries, education advocates and parents of beneficiaries graced the 2025 SABMF Scholarship Awards.