Aliko Dangote
Abayomi Susan
Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man and Chairman of the Dangote Group, has launched a N100 billion annual scholarship fund to support underprivileged Nigerian students. The initiative, unveiled in Lagos through the Aliko Dangote Foundation, aims to ease the financial burden on students who may be forced to abandon their education due to lack of funds. It marks one of the most significant private interventions in Nigeria’s education sector.
The programme is set to run for ten years, with a total investment expected to exceed N1 trillion. It targets over 1.3 million beneficiaries by 2036. In its first year, the fund will support 45,000 students, increasing to 155,000 annually from the fourth year onward. Each beneficiary will receive tuition support based on their course and institution, ensuring a fair and impactful distribution of funds.
A major highlight of the initiative is the Aliko Dangote STEM Scholars Programme, designed to support 30,000 students each year in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics across public universities and polytechnics. This focus on STEM aligns with the foundation’s goal of equipping young Nigerians with the skills needed to drive innovation and economic growth.
Speaking at the launch, Dangote emphasized that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and unlocking the potential of the nation’s youth. He said the scholarship fund is not just about paying school fees, but about creating a future where no child is left behind because of money. The initiative is expected to inspire other private-sector leaders and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s long-term development.
