Barau Foundation Awards Scholarships to 300 Students, Boosts Higher Education in Nigeria
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu
Northern Bureau Chief
April 22, 2025
The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has reaffirmed his dedication to educational advancement in Nigeria through the Barau Foundation, which has awarded scholarships to 300 students for undergraduate studies in various Nigerian universities.
The announcement was made during an official inauguration ceremony held at Bayero University, Kano, on Sunday. Speaking at the event, Senator Jibrin emphasized the importance of merit, fairness, and transparency in the selection process of the scholarship recipients.
“I don’t know anyone of you here. I want this programme to be based on credibility, and I wish you good luck,” Senator Jibrin said, stressing that the initiative is driven by a vision to empower promising young Nigerians regardless of their background.
The scholarship, fully funded by the Barau Foundation, covers tuition and other essential academic expenses. The beneficiaries were selected from across the 19 northern states, reflecting the foundation’s inclusive and national outlook.
According to Senator Jibrin, the aim of the scholarship scheme is not only to alleviate financial burdens for students and their families but also to enhance the country’s human capital by supporting academic excellence. “This initiative is a small but significant step toward ensuring that no intelligent Nigerian is left behind due to lack of resources,” he said.
The event was attended by key figures in the education sector, including the Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University Kano, Professor Sagir Adamu, who praised the initiative for its potential to reshape the state’s and nation’s future.
“By training these students, it simply means you are preparing future leaders,” Prof. Adamu noted. “We commend Senator Barau for investing in our youths—this investment will yield long-term benefits for our society.”
Also present was Professor Ibn Abdullah, Pro-Chancellor of Al-Istikama University, who described the programme as a monumental effort in promoting educational equity. “The scholarship programme is a testament to Sen. Barau Jibrin’s commitment to developing human capital in Nigeria. Education remains the strongest weapon we can give our youth,” he said.
The event featured moving testimonials from some of the beneficiaries, many of whom expressed gratitude and promised to work hard to justify the opportunity. For many, the scholarship represents not just financial relief but a life-changing opportunity to pursue their dreams.
This latest move by the Barau Foundation adds to its growing portfolio of social investment programs in health, youth development, and empowerment across Nigeria. With education being a central pillar of the foundation’s mission, Senator Jibrin reaffirmed his commitment to scaling up the scholarship scheme in subsequent years, targeting even more beneficiaries.
The ceremony ended on a hopeful note, with students, parents, and dignitaries expressing optimism about the future of education in the country, thanks to initiatives like this one.
