Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno has approved N706.5 million for various scholarship categories both within and outside the country.

Bala Isa, the executive secretary, Borno State Scholarship Board, said this at a news conference on Monday in Maiduguri.

Mr Isa said the intervention was a clear demonstration of Mr Zulum’s commitment to education, human capital development, and the welfare of Borno students.

He said the approval covered several categories and that the payment was effective immediately.

“300 orphans of fallen heroes of members of Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) who have hitherto complemented efforts of the government and the security agencies in the fight against Boko Haram terrorists, 206 students of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare, under the Borno State Special Scholarship Scheme, 34 students of Al-Ansar University, Maiduguri and the repatriated students from Sudan, to help them regain academic stability after the crisis formed part of the beneficiaries.

“Additionally, 104 nursing students writing their professional exams at the College of Nursing Sciences, Maiduguri, Upkeep allowance for 523 nursing students for five months and Second tranche payment for 304 Science, Technology, English and Mathematics (STEM) postgraduate students studying in Nigerian universities are to benefit.

“This financial intervention by His Excellency underscores the central role education plays in the ongoing reconstruction, rehabilitation, and resettlement efforts across Borno State.

“It is a clear message that no student will be left behind, and every young person willing to pursue education will be supported,” Mr Isa said.

The executive secretary said that the board remain committed to transparency, accountability, and timely disbursement of all approved funds, assuring that every naira will reach the beneficiaries without delay.

(NAN)