The Senator representing Niger East Senatorial District, Senator Mohammed Sani Musa (313), has held a pre-departure briefing for 50 beneficiaries of the 2026 Russian scholarship programme and unveiled the first batch of his domestic scholarship scheme.
At the event held on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, in Minna, Senator Musa urged the beneficiaries to remain focused and committed to excellence, stressing that the knowledge and exposure they would acquire should be used for the development of their communities and society at large.
He explained that the scholarship initiative is driven by the belief that access to quality education should not be a privilege but a right for all citizens, regardless of religion or political affiliation.
“We are investing in the future of our young minds who will become leaders of tomorrow. This opportunity is a call to excellence and service. You must distinguish yourselves not only academically but also in character and integrity,” he said.
The senator disclosed that beneficiaries of the foreign scholarship would receive a monthly stipend of 100 dollars.
He also acknowledged the support of Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, noting that the initiative would not have been possible without the enabling environment provided by the state government.
Senator Musa further announced that his scholarship programme would now cover examination fees for students in his constituency sitting for NECO, WAEC, and JAMB. He added that medical students under the scheme would receive N300,000, while other undergraduates would receive between N100,000 and N200,000.
He commended members of the scholarship committee for ensuring transparency and credibility in the selection process, describing their efforts as key to the sustainability of the initiative.
On the political climate, Musa called on stakeholders to uphold peace and mutual respect as the political season approaches, stressing that democracy thrives on adherence to rules and collective responsibility.
Representing the governor at the event, the Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Nasir Mu’azu, said the initiative aligns with the New Niger Agenda and demonstrates the senator’s commitment to advancing education in the state.
“The senator is giving back to society what it has given him,” he said, while pledging the state government’s continued support.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Scholarship Committee, Dr. Ibrahim Balarabe, said the briefing was aimed at showcasing the impact of the programme and reaffirming its mission.
He revealed that 100 students sponsored to India are progressing well in their various fields, while 50 students in China studying medicine and surgery are preparing to contribute to the healthcare sector.
According to him, each beneficiary has received N500,000 in support.
In goodwill messages, former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Zubairu Dada, and a member of the Niger State House of Assembly, Umar Nasir Paiko, advised the beneficiaries to remain disciplined, avoid negative influences, and represent the state and country positively.
The beneficiaries were drawn from nine local government areas—Rafi, Suleja, Munya, Shiroro, Chanchaga, Gurara, Paikoro, Tafa, and Bosso—within the senator’s constituency, although students from other zones have also benefited from the initiative.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Ibrahim Abdullahi Gurumana expressed appreciation to the senator and pledged that they would be good ambassadors of the state.
The event featured the presentation of customised ATM cards loaded with N100,000 to some domestic scholarship beneficiaries.
