From Femi Mustapha, in Kaduna
On Wednesday, the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SABMF) awarded scholarships to 200 undergraduate students from the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This event included a renewed emphasis on the importance of investing in girl-child education and the need for stronger personal discipline among young Nigerians.
Dr. Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, Chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees (BoT), delivered a keynote address at the 2025 SABMF Scholarship Awards Ceremony in Kaduna, sharing personal experiences that shaped his academic and leadership journey. He emphasized that perseverance, self-motivation, and clarity of purpose are essential for success. He recalled how political pressures during his university years nearly derailed his studies.
“I would have loved to say I graduated with a first-class degree, but circumstances did not allow it,” he remarked. “From a personal accident to being drafted by my community to run for the House of Representatives during my final exams, I stayed focused and succeeded in both my examinations and election.”
He urged the recipients, especially the female scholars, to remain disciplined and grounded and to choose the right paths in life.
“Life is not a competition. Everyone has their own path. Whatever you will become, you will achieve through diligence. Never forget your God, and always remember where you come from,” he advised.
Engr. Gambo Abubakar, the Director-General of the Foundation, explained that education is one of SABMF’s primary intervention pillars. He stated that the Foundation supports ten indigent students from each Northern state and the FCT every cycle, ensuring equal opportunities for both male and female applicants.
According to him, students in science and technology disciplines receive financial support throughout their programs. MBBS students receive ₦500,000 annually for six years, engineering students get ₦400,000 for five years, while those in four-year courses are awarded ₦300,000 each year.
Abubakar noted that since 2012, more than 1,000 students have benefited from the program, resulting in over 600 graduates, including 46% first-class achievers, 27% second-class upper, and 23% second-class lower graduates. He also highlighted the SABMF Scholars Forum, which provides mentorship, career guidance, and networking opportunities.
He appealed for increased financial support to expand the program. “This year, Kaduna State alone had over 300 applicants, but we could only select ten due to limited funds. We urge individuals and organizations to support this initiative so more children can benefit,” he said.
Alhaji Munnir Jafaru, Deputy Chairman of the BoT, extended his congratulations to the beneficiaries and encouraged them to strive for excellence. Former Kogi State Governor, Capt. Idris Wada (rtd.) remarked that the education policies of the late Sir Ahmadu Bello have opened life-changing opportunities for many Northern youths, including himself.
“I became a pilot at an early age because of Sardauna’s policies,” he shared. “This scholarship is a golden opportunity; do not misuse it. Be disciplined and serve as worthy ambassadors of the North.”
Another BoT member, Ambassador Abubakar Hussaini Mori, mentioned that the screening process was rigorous, narrowing down over 6,000 applicants to 300, and ultimately selecting 200 awardees. He stressed that millions of Nigerian children remain out of school due to economic hardship, emphasizing that the Foundation was created to help fulfill Sardauna’s vision during times when state governments are overwhelmed.
Former Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State, Mr. Timothy Anjide, reminded the scholars of the values of service and responsibility. “Thousands applied, but only a few were chosen. You must uphold Sardauna’s legacy and give back to society,” he stated.
Special Adviser to the Kaduna State Governor on Student Matters, Amina Sani Bello, encouraged the female awardees to be proactive and purposeful. “Girls must in their endeavors take their studies seriously. Use this scholarship to build your future and contribute to your communities,” she advised.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, education advocates, parents, and well-wishers from across the region.
