 Local and International Scholarships-17254)
Breaking Barriers: Nasarawa State Rolls Out 2025 Scholarships for Indigent Students
In an inspiring move to invest in the future of its youth, the Nasarawa State Government has officially launched the 2025 edition of its Local and Foreign Scholarships through the Nasarawa State Scholarship Board (NSSB). This annual initiative is aimed at easing the financial burden of tertiary education for students of Nasarawa origin, both within Nigeria and abroad.
At a time when the cost of education is rising sharply and economic conditions are tightening, this scholarship scheme is a lifeline for thousands of families. More than just a financial aid program, it reflects the government’s commitment to academic excellence, human capital development, and equitable access to education.
A Government That Prioritizes Education
Education has long been recognized as a cornerstone for sustainable development. In line with this, the Nasarawa State Government—through the Ministry of Education—has empowered the NSSB to administer this scholarship program. The Board's role includes collecting applications, screening candidates, and facilitating payments in conjunction with the state’s approval processes.
According to the Executive Secretary of the NSSB, over 10,000 indigenes have benefitted from the scheme in recent years, proving its real impact on educational accessibility and retention.
What Makes This Scholarship Unique?
Unlike many state scholarship programs that offer only basic support, the NSSB’s scheme is multi-faceted, providing a range of opportunities tailored to different academic needs:
- Nasarawa State Bursary
This is an annual financial award given to Nasarawa indigenes studying in Nigerian tertiary institutions. The bursary ranges from ₦15,000 to ₦30,000, helping students cover basic educational expenses such as textbooks, transportation, and other academic materials.
- Federal Scholarship (Local)
In partnership with the Federal Government, this scholarship supports both undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing higher education within Nigeria. It’s an excellent example of how state-federal cooperation can make a tangible difference.
- International Scholarships
For high-performing students dreaming of studying abroad, the Nasarawa State Government sponsors selected candidates to further their education in foreign universities. This exposure not only enhances individual growth but also promotes global competitiveness.
- Bilateral Scholarships
Through agreements with foreign governments such as China, select Nasarawa students are granted scholarships that include tuition and, in many cases, living stipends. These partnerships open doors to world-class education and cross-cultural experience.
Who Can Apply?
To ensure that scholarships go to the most deserving and committed students, the following eligibility criteria apply:
Must be a bonafide indigene of Nasarawa State
Must be enrolled in an accredited tertiary institution in Nigeria
Must have a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.0 on a 5.0 scale (or its equivalent)
This merit-based approach ensures that students are not only supported but are also encouraged to maintain academic excellence.
Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit a set of documents to verify their identity, educational background, and state origin. These include:
Personal Details (Full Name, Contact Info, etc.)
Primary School Leaving Certificate
WAEC/NECO/NABTEB Results
JAMB Admission Slip or Admission Letter
Certificate of Origin (LGA Indigene Certificate)
National Identification Number (NIN) or ID Slip
Funding and Impact
One of the most notable updates in 2024 was the announcement of a 50% increase in the scholarship payout by the state governor. Following this, ₦395 million was disbursed to 1,000 beneficiaries, reflecting the government’s heightened commitment to education.
Though bursaries individually range between ₦15,000 and ₦30,000, the higher disbursement figure suggests that students selected for international or postgraduate scholarships receive much larger financial support.
Why It Matters
Many students drop out of school not because they lack the ambition or ability, but because they simply cannot afford to continue. The Nasarawa State Scholarship Scheme serves as a bridge—connecting students with their educational goals regardless of their financial status.
Beyond financial aid, this program fosters a culture of academic excellence, self-reliance, and civic pride among young Nasarawa indigenes. By equipping them with knowledge and skills, the state is also investing in its future leaders, professionals, and innovators.
What’s Next?
While the exact deadline for the 2025 application cycle hasn’t been announced, interested students are advised to prepare their documents and stay tuned to official NSSB channels for updates.
For Nasarawa indigenes pursuing higher education, this is a golden opportunity to ease financial strain and focus on academic success.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a student, parent, or education advocate, the 2025 NSSB Local and Foreign Scholarships represent hope and progress. It’s a chance to turn dreams into degrees—and eventually, those degrees into development for the entire state.
Stay informed. Stay prepared. And most importantly, don’t miss out on this life-changing opportunity.
