Gov Eno Raises Students Bursary To N200,000, N250,000 For Core Programmes

To lessen the burden on parents, the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has announced an increase in the bursary allowance for students in government-owned tertiary institutions from N50,000 to N200,000, while students studying Medicine, Law and Engineering will receive N250,000 each.

The Governor made the announcement during an interactive session on the second day of the Ibom Ignite Conference 2026 in Uyo, the state capital.

He explained that the increase was designed to ease the financial burden on students and their families, particularly amid rising costs of accommodation, learning materials and other academic needs.

He noted that “the gesture underscores the State government’s commitment to education and human capital development, while reinforcing the importance of supporting young people with the knowledge, skills and resources needed to succeed.”

Beyond educational support, Governor Eno reaffirmed his administration’s determination to empower young people through skills acquisition, digital training, entrepreneurship development and employment opportunities.

According to him, the government was committed to providing young people with the support, guidance and exposure required to grow their businesses, realise their potential and contribute meaningfully to the state’s development.

He noted that the administration’s youth empowerment initiatives went beyond providing start-up funds for young entrepreneurs, explaining that beneficiaries were also monitored, mentored and guided to improve their chances of success.

The Governor further disclosed that trainees at the Youth Development Centre in Oron were nearing graduation, with hundreds of beneficiaries earning certifications from Microsoft and Google. He added that some of the trainees had acquired coding and other digital skills, opening up opportunities for remote employment.

“Hundreds of young people in Oron have earned Microsoft and Google certifications, with some acquiring coding skills and securing remote job opportunities. We will extend the programme to other locations,” the Governor stated.

Delivering a keynote address on the theme, “Building Beyond Boundaries,” the Chief Executive Officer of Hensek Integrated Limited, Engr. Uwem Okoko, highlighted the importance of vision, innovation and determination in driving development beyond conventional limits.

He emphasised the need for individuals and organisations to look beyond existing limitations, embrace new possibilities and remain committed to turning their aspirations into reality.

Similarly, Dr. Maxwell Ubah of Strategy House Limited, in a presentation titled “Change Your Thinking, Change Your Future,” challenged participants to cultivate a positive mindset, reinvent themselves and remain focused on their goals.

Dr. Ubah encouraged participants to approach their personal and professional pursuits with the right attitude, discipline and dedication, noting that a change in mindset could help unlock their potential and position them for greater success.

The two-day Ibom Ignite Conference 2026 continues to serve as a platform for young people to acquire knowledge, explore opportunities, develop relevant skills and build the capacity to participate actively in the economic and social transformation of Akwa Ibom State.