From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
As part of event to celebrate the International Students’ Day, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students Engagement, Sunday Asefon, has awarded different scholarships to students at different institutions across the country.
He also distributed cash prizes, laptops and other items some deserving students to assist them in their academic programmes.
At an event to mark the day in Abuja, on Wednesday, the President’s aide said the intervention was part of the President’s desire to ensure students enjoy stress-free education.
He said: “The major objective was to inspire excellence and underscore our commitment to rewarding hard work and dedication. Let me reiterate that student welfare and education development remain central to the policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“His administration has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to renewing the hope of Nigerian students, and ensuring that every young Nigerian is equipped to succeed in an ever-evolving world.”
He urged all students to embrace excellence, innovation, and collaboration as tools for personal growth and national development. “Together, we can build a brighter, more sustainable future.”
Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, in his remarks, charged the students to shun activities that would tarnish the image and reputation of Nigeria in the comity of Nigeria.
He stated that social media has become a rallying point for the students, thus urging them to use the platform wisely, and not deploy their energy therein to de-market Nigeria and its government.
He assured the students and Nigerian youths that the government is committed to the youth empowerment, educationally, financially and otherwise, as well as their involvement in his government as could be seen in the appointment of youth people into his cabinet.
He added: “The recent approval of CNG buses for national student bodies to alleviate transportation challenges for students across the nation, as well as the directive on immediate stop on arbitrary increase of school fees across federal owned tertarity institutions among others, are statements that reflect President Tinubu’s dedication to ensuring education is a priority, not just a policy.
Minister of Defence, Dr. Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, told the youths that he will support the expansion of the of awards in future, thus providing the opportunity for more to enjoy.
He said the establishment of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFund) has ensured increased access to higher education for students, removing financial barriers and creating opportunities for all.
He assured them that the government is working assidously to guarantee security across the country, particularly in schools to avoid the attacks on schools as was witnessed in the past.