Dangote Launches ₦1 Trillion Scholarship for 1.3 Million Nigerian Students

Aliko Dangote, through the Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF), has announced a ₦1 trillion scholarship programme aimed at supporting over 1.3 million Nigerian students across all 774 local government areas. The initiative will begin in 2026, with ₦100 billion to be spent annually for 10 years.

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The scheme will focus on vulnerable students and covers three categories: university and polytechnic STEM students, technical and vocational trainees, and secondary school girls in public schools. Beneficiaries will receive tuition support, learning materials, uniforms, and technical tools.

The programme will be implemented digitally and on merit, in partnership with agencies such as NELFUND, JAMB, NIMC, NUC, NBTE, WAEC, and NECO to ensure transparency and efficiency.

Dangote described the initiative as an investment in Nigeria’s future, stressing that many students drop out due to financial hardship, not lack of ability. He pledged 25% of his wealth to sustain the programme.

The Federal Government, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, praised the initiative as the largest private-sector education support in Nigeria’s history. State governors, education stakeholders, and traditional rulers also commended the effort, describing it as a bold step toward national development and human capital growth.