Inside Governor Radda’s ₦2.6bn Scholarship Drive

The atmosphere at the Katsina State Scholarship Board complex was more than ceremonial. It was reflective, hopeful and, above all, purposeful.

As Governor Dikko Umaru Radda formally flagged off the ₦2.6 billion 2024/2025 bursary and scholarship programme, the event unfolded as a convergence of policy, conviction and personal testimonies on why education remains the strongest pillar of Katsina State’s future.

More than a routine flag-off, the ceremony became a platform where key personalities articulated a shared vision: education as a right, a tool of empowerment and a sustainable investment beyond political tenures.

In his address, Governor Radda grounded the initiative in a moral pledge made at the beginning of his administration.

“When we assumed office, we made a solemn pledge that financial hardship should never deprive a child of Katsina State the right to education. Today, we thank Allah that He has guided our administration to fulfil this promise with sincerity and results.”

The Governor disclosed that over ₦2.6 billion has been invested in scholarships and bursaries, benefitting thousands of students within Nigeria and across the diaspora.

For him, the numbers tell only part of the story. The deeper objective, he said, is restoring hope and dignity to families who see education as their children’s only ladder out of hardship.

Governor Radda highlighted the Academic Excellence Award, introduced to reward diligence and discipline, noting with pride that several beneficiaries are now First-Class graduates already gainfully employed.

“We introduced the Academic Excellence Award to celebrate hard work. Today, many of those beneficiaries are proud First-Class graduates who are already contributing meaningfully to society.”

He also underscored the Special Needs Scholarship, describing it as a statement of fairness and compassion.

“Students with disabilities deserve dignity, opportunity and inclusion. This scholarship ensures that our educational system leaves no one behind.”

Beyond conventional education, the Governor spoke on the administration’s support for Islamic learning and moral upbringing.

“Education is not only about certificates. We are supporting Islamic learning centres hosted within mosques, benefitting more than 200 students at no cost, to ensure moral and spiritual development alongside academic growth.”

One of the most strategic aspects of Governor Radda’s speech was his emphasis on international exposure. He revealed that students from all 34 local government areas are currently studying courses such as Artificial Intelligence, Bioengineering and Medicine abroad through transparent, merit-based sponsorship.

“These are strategic investments in health, technology, innovation and leadership. When they return, they will strengthen our institutions, improve healthcare, enhance technology adoption and build a Katsina State that can compete globally.”

To ensure continuity, Governor Radda announced plans to establish a Scholarship Trust Fund, designed to protect educational funding beyond his administration.

“This commitment is not tied to personalities. The Trust Fund will guarantee sustainability and ensure that future generations continue to benefit.”

He also welcomed the proposal for a modern Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centre, aligning it with the state’s digital transformation agenda.

Dr. Aminu Salisu-Tsauri: Numbers, Accountability and Impact

Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the Katsina State Scholarship Board, Dr. Aminu Salisu-Tsauri, provided a detailed breakdown of the programme’s scope, reinforcing the Governor’s policy direction with data and outcomes.

He disclosed that ₦677.57 million has been dedicated to the 2024/2025 academic session alone, while previous disbursements supported tens of thousands of students across multiple years.

“Over ₦200 million has been committed to medical and health-related courses, while more than ₦300 million has supported students studying within Nigeria and in the diaspora.”

Dr. Salisu-Tsauri described the Academic Excellence Award, now in its third consecutive year, as a symbol of meritocracy.

“This award has become a badge of excellence. Many beneficiaries have secured automatic employment, proving that merit pays when institutions are fair and transparent.”

He also revealed that the Board has reintegrated out-of-school children by providing uniforms, books and learning materials as part of its corporate social responsibility.

Commending Governor Radda, the Executive Secretary described the progressive increase in the Board’s budget as unprecedented.

“The Governor increased our budget from ₦500 million to ₦1 billion, and now to ₦9 billion projected for 2026. This is revolutionary and demonstrates uncommon commitment to human capital development.”

Dr. Salisu-Tsauri formally requested the establishment of a CBT centre within the Board premises to support JAMB examinations and reduce the burden on students who currently travel long distances.

Partners Speak Through Action

While formal speeches dominated the event, the presence and recognition of partners spoke volumes. Governor Radda publicly commended ALGON, federal lawmakers, members of the State Assembly, local government chairmen and philanthropists for standing with the government.

The Scholarship Board honoured individuals and organisations such as Eng. Tukur Hassan Tingilin, Eng. Abubakar Matazu, Alhaji Dahiru Usman Sarki, Alhaji Aminu Rahama, Gwagware Foundation, Lamido Foundation, and community leaders who sponsor students independently.

Their recognition reinforced a central message of the day: education is a shared responsibility.

A Charge to Beneficiaries

In his closing remarks, Governor Radda turned directly to the students.

“This support is not an end; it is an opportunity. Do not waste this trust. Work hard, remain disciplined, stay focused and excel. You owe this to your families, your state and your faith.”

As dignitaries, including the Chief of Staff, Hon. Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir, lawmakers, traditional and religious leaders departed the venue, the significance of the event lingered.

What unfolded was not merely a flag-off, but a reaffirmation of governance anchored on people, planning and permanence.

Through the voices of Governor Radda and Dr. Aminu Salisu-Tsauri, the ₦2.6 billion bursary programme emerged as a blueprint for how education, when treated as legacy rather than largesse, can redefine a state’s future.