The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has appealed to the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, to urgently facilitate the disbursement of all outstanding Federal Government Scholarship payments owed to beneficiaries from 2024 to date.
In a Monday statement signed by its National Public Relations Officer, Comrade Obidah David, NANS said the continued delay in payment has become “a matter of profound concern” to students and their families across the country.
The association said its National Secretariat has received numerous complaints from affected beneficiaries whose academic pursuits and personal welfare have been significantly impacted by the prolonged delay.
“For many students, the Federal Government Scholarship Scheme represents more than financial assistance — it is a vital support mechanism that enables them to pursue their education without the burden of overwhelming financial constraints,” the statement reads in part.
NANS noted that the non-disbursement of the funds has left many beneficiaries struggling to meet tuition obligations, accommodation expenses, research costs, and other essential educational needs.
The students’ body acknowledged the commitment of the Federal Government and the Federal Ministry of Education to expanding access to quality education and advancing policies that promote academic excellence.
“In this spirit of mutual commitment to the future of Nigerian students, we respectfully call on the Honourable Minister to give this matter the urgent attention it deserves,” NANS stated.
The association expressed confidence that the ministry appreciates the importance of timely scholarship payments, adding that prompt disbursement would provide relief to affected students and reinforce public confidence in the Federal Government Scholarship Scheme.
NANS said it remains committed to constructive engagement and dialogue with the Federal Ministry of Education to advance policies that promote the welfare of Nigerian students.
“We therefore urge the Honourable Minister of Education to take immediate steps to ensure that all outstanding scholarship payments to beneficiaries from 2024 to date are released without further delay,” the statement added.
“The future of our nation depends on the quality of education and support provided to its young people. We trust that this earnest appeal will receive the prompt and favourable consideration it deserves.”
(The Sun)
