In a major boost to educational access for underprivileged students, twenty undergraduates of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, have each received ₦300,000 as part of the ₦1.2 billion OPay National Scholarship Initiative.
The disbursement was made possible through the facilitation of the Edo State Government, acting via the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Launched earlier in 2025, the OPay scholarship programme is designed to support students from low-income backgrounds across 20 Nigerian universities.
The initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4, which promotes inclusive and equitable quality education. The scholarship is structured to run for a decade, offering long-term support to deserving students.
Speaking on the milestone, Ms. Sally Suleiman, Special Adviser to Governor Monday Okpebholo on SDGs, described the disbursement as a transformative moment for AAU and a testament to the administration’s commitment to inclusive development.
“This is more than a financial grant—it’s a promise fulfilled,” Suleiman said. “As we near one year in office, this achievement reflects our dedication to empowering young people and expanding access to education.”
She praised OPay Digital Services for its partnership and commended Governor Okpebholo for his visionary leadership in creating opportunities for Edo’s youth.
Suleiman emphasized that the initiative reinforces the state’s alignment with global development goals and its pursuit of equity in education.
Among the beneficiaries was Blessing Iyoha, a 100-level Human Anatomy student, who expressed deep gratitude for the support.
“This scholarship means I can pay my fees without putting pressure on my parents,” she said.
Victory Eshere, a 200-level Biochemistry student, echoed similar sentiments, noting that the funds would significantly ease her academic journey and allow her to focus more on her studies.
The scholarship disbursement marks a significant step in Edo State’s broader agenda to uplift vulnerable communities through strategic partnerships and targeted interventions in education.
