Borno pays N2.5bn annual fees for students at Isaac Balami University
Borno Governor Unveils Scholarship Recipients for Aviation University
MAIDUGURI, Nigeria — Borno State Governor Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum announced the successful candidates for government scholarships to attend Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM), Africa’s first indigenous aviation university, during a ceremony on Thursday at the Government House in Maiduguri.
The governor presented a cheque of 2.5 billion Naira to the university to cover the annual tuition fees for the beneficiaries. He praised Isaac Balami, the university’s founder, for his commitment to education and for providing additional scholarships to 54 other underprivileged students from the state.
Zulum emphasized that the selection process prioritized vulnerable students, with two candidates chosen from each of Borno’s local government areas. He expressed his satisfaction with the completion of the admission process and encouraged the students to focus on their studies.
“I congratulate all of you on your success,” Zulum said. “What matters most is not just gaining admission, but how focused you will be in your studies. I advise you to remain dedicated and become good ambassadors of our state.”
In addition to the scholarships, the governor announced a financial assistance plan, granting each student 500,000 Naira to help with resumption costs, and instructed that these funds be disbursed immediately.
State Commissioner for Education Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe highlighted the government’s commitment to the scholarship program. He reported that over 3,000 applications were received after a statewide invitation for indigent students, with 1,200 candidates shortlisted for a written examination.
Balami thanked Governor Zulum for honoring his scholarship commitment, stating that the university is dedicated to developing skilled professionals who will contribute to both the state and the nation. He affirmed his belief that the recipients will play a role in creating Nigeria’s first locally produced aircraft.
“In addition to the 54 sponsored by the state government, I am granting scholarships to another 54 students training as aircraft technicians and planners,” Balami said, citing his own experience with a state scholarship as inspiration to give back.
He commended the Borno State Ministry of Education for its professionalism and efficiency, expressing admiration for the ministry’s organization. Balami encouraged the scholarship beneficiaries to prepare for the academic challenges that lie ahead.
