At least 20 undergraduates of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, have each received N300,000 as part of the N1.2 billion OPay National Scholarship Initiative aimed at easing the financial burden of students from low-income families and expanding access to quality education in Nigeria.
The disbursement was facilitated through the Edo State Government, via the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). OPay Digital Services, the initiative’s sponsor, said the scholarship programme, launched earlier in 2025, targets students from 20 universities across the country and aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 4 on quality education. Designed to run for 10 years, the programme is one of the most ambitious private-sector education interventions in recent years.
Speaking during the disbursement, the Special Adviser to the Governor on SDGs described the initiative as a landmark achievement that offers real hope to financially challenged students. She explained that although the process took time, the eventual fulfilment of the commitment marks a new chapter in the state’s push for inclusive development and equitable access to education.
“This is more than just the announcement of a grant. It is proof that our promises are being fulfilled. As we approach one year in office, this achievement stands as one of the milestones in our administration’s commitment to inclusive development,” she said, while commending OPay for its partnership and the state governor for his vision in expanding opportunities for young people.
The initiative’s impact is already being felt among the beneficiaries. Blessing Iyoha, a 100-level Human Anatomy student, described the payment as a huge relief, noting that it will allow her to pay her school fees without placing additional financial pressure on her family. Another beneficiary, Victory Eshere, a 200-level Biochemistry student, said the scholarship will support her in multiple aspects of her academic journey.
The OPay National Scholarship Initiative is expected to support thousands of students nationwide over the next decade. Education advocates say the programme will not only help reduce dropout rates among undergraduates but also strengthen Nigeria’s human capital development, a critical driver of growth for small businesses and the wider economy.
By reducing financial barriers to education, initiatives like OPay’s could equip more young Nigerians with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the workforce, ultimately boosting entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic growth.
