Juliet Jacob 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Federal Government has hailed the Aliko Dangote Foundation’s newly launched ₦100 billion annual scholarship fund as a “historic intervention” capable of transforming access to education and reshaping Nigeria’s human capital development agenda.
Vice President Kashim Shettima delivered the commendation on Thursday in Lagos at the unveiling ceremony, describing the initiative as one of the boldest private-sector investments ever channelled into Nigeria’s education system.
Representing the government, Shettima said the fund “redefines opportunities for millions of young Nigerians” and demonstrates how private-sector leadership can accelerate inclusive national development. He stressed that sustained investment in education remains central to the country’s long-term competitiveness. “This initiative is more than a scholarship scheme; it is a catalyst for reshaping our human capital trajectory,” he said.
Officials at the event noted that the scholarship fund reflects a deepening collaboration between the federal government and private enterprise to strengthen the quality of Nigeria’s future workforce. They say the scheme has the potential to remove entrenched barriers to learning, enabling deserving students to pursue academic opportunities that were previously out of reach.
The launch drew an impressive audience of political leaders, captains of industry, traditional rulers and senior presidential aides, including Deputy Chief of Staff Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia.
In his remarks, Aliko Dangote said the Foundation’s investment is motivated by a desire to eliminate financial obstacles that prevent gifted students from attaining their dreams. “We are committed to empowering young Nigerians wherever they live, because education remains the most powerful driver of opportunity,” he said.
Government officials reaffirmed their full support for initiatives that expand access to education and align with national priorities focused on building a globally competitive and knowledge-driven economy.
About the Author
Oluwatobi Adu 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Koko Maxwella 