LOKOJA, Nigeria (AP) — The National Association of Nigerian Students has unveiled a new initiative designed to expand access to education, mentorship and international opportunities for millions of Nigerian students.
The Constituency Scholarship and Talent Development Scheme, announced Monday in Lokoja, will provide scholarships and career development support through partnerships with members of the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly.
NANS President Babatunde Akinteye, popularly known as Babtee, described the program as a major step toward bridging the gap between Nigerian students and access to quality education. “It is not just about awarding scholarships, but about creating pathways for long-term academic and career success,” he said.
The scheme will allow lawmakers to channel constituency resources into structured educational support systems. Each constituency is expected to support between 20 and 30 students annually, with at least 10 gaining international exposure through academic exchange programs.
Comrade Abraham Adewoye, Director of International Projects and Partnerships, said the initiative would connect Nigerian students with institutions in the United Kingdom, the United States and Europe. “What we are building is a bridge between Nigerian students and the global academic community,” he explained.
NANS emphasized that the program will cover all constituencies nationwide, ensuring no region is excluded. The association also pledged transparency and accountability in managing the scheme, aligning it with existing funding mechanisms such as constituency project allocations, education intervention funds and youth empowerment budgets.
The umbrella body, representing more than 50 million Nigerian students in tertiary institutions at home and abroad, said the initiative underscores its commitment to student welfare and educational development.
Globally, education advocates have long argued that scholarships and mentorship programs are critical to reducing inequality and preparing young people for competitive labor markets. Analysts say the NANS scheme could serve as a model for other student organizations in Africa, where access to higher education and international exposure remains uneven.
