Borno State Scholarship Board

20/08/2026

Speech by the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Scholarship Board, Dr. Bala Isa, at the Homecoming Event for State-Sponsored Scholars Abroad

19/08/2026

Borno: Zulum Invests N15.29bn in Scholarships, Approves Fresh Support for Overseas Students
..Announces 100 Percent Upward Review of Local Scholarship

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has disclosed that his administration has invested N15.29 billion in scholarship programs for indigenes of the state since 2023, with more than N8.61 billion dedicated to overseas studies.

Governor Zulum made the disclosure on Wednesday at the homecoming ceremony for 294 Borno State beneficiaries of foreign scholarship schemes at universities in China, India, Egypt and Malaysia, where he congratulated graduates returning after completing their programs overseas.

According to the governor, the total allocation of N12.64 billion covers foreign scholarships, local scholarships and administrative support for the program.

Governor Zulum also announced the approval of N2.65 billion to settle the 2026 foreign scholarship obligations of 158 students pursuing studies in China, Malaysia, India and Egypt as submitted by the Ministry of Education.

He said N8. 61 billion was spent on foreign scholarships, while N3.83 billion went to local scholarship beneficiaries.

"It is in pursuit of this vision that, since 2023, this administration has invested a total of N12,644,034,368.96 in scholarships for the sons and daughters of Borno State. Of this sum, N8,611,846,007.60 has gone into foreign scholarships, N3,835,880,614.32 into local scholarships, and N196,307,747.04 into administrative support for the scheme," Zulum said.

The Governor described the expenditure as one of the state's most significant investments in education, stressing that developing young people's capacity remained the most reliable route out of poverty and conflict.

“Our administration’s 25-Year Development Plan is anchored on building an equitable society in which every citizen, regardless of background or circumstance, has access to quality education and essential services,” he stated.

The proposed funding, he said, would also cover 54 beneficiaries under the state’s aviation scholarship program, which is currently under review.

He reiterated that the scholarship program would remain merit-based, noting that beneficiaries had recorded impressive academic performances in their respective institutions abroad.

The Governor further directed the Borno State Scholarship Board to open applications for 220 academic staff of the University of Maiduguri for local and foreign postgraduate scholarships.

He also announced that requests for sponsorship from professionals in the Humanities and Arts were receiving government attention, while reaffirming that the state had fully sponsored indigenous law graduates through law schools across Nigeria.

Zulum, while addressing the returning graduates, urged them to regard the scholarship as a public investment that must be repaid through service and meaningful contributions to their communities.

He pledged his administration’s continued commitment to human capital development, saying Borno would continue to build an environment that rewards excellence, promotes learning and prepares young people for leadership and development roles.

Meanwhile, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has announced a 100 percent increase in local scholarships for indigenes of the state. He directed the Commissioner of Education and Scholarship Board to ensure immediate implementation.

Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Investment, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe said the foreign scholarship covers 294 indigenous students studying medicine, engineering and other science, technology, engineering and mathematics-related courses in Asia and North Africa.

He said the investment, amounting to over N8 billion from 2023 to date, covered tuition fees, accommodation, feeding, monthly stipends, airfares, travel documentation, and other academic-related expenses.

According to the Commissioner, 171 postgraduate scholars were trained in two universities in India and five universities in Malaysia, with the state spending N3.233 billion on their education. Noting that the beneficiaries are expected to take up academic roles in local tertiary institutions in the state.

Engr. Wakilbe added that 16 of the postgraduate scholars graduated with distinctions and other academic honors. He also presented 104 undergraduate students comprising 53 medical students and 51 engineering students currently studying in six institutions in China,

The students, he said, are expected to form part of the professional workforce for the state’s healthcare and infrastructure sectors, including the newly established state-of-the-art Kashim Ibrahim teaching hospital

The Commissioner further stated that beneficiaries had received their fees and monthly stipends, ranging from $150 to $200, promptly and in advance since 2023.

Executive Secretary of the Borno State Scholarship Board, Dr. Bala Isa, explained that the program began with 301 scholars. Regrettably, he said, one passed away, two withdrew due to ill health, one transferred, and three withdrew from the program, bringing the total number to 294.

24/07/2026

PUBLIC AWARENESS ON THE BORNO STATE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME

Understanding the Scholarship Award Policy and Strategic Priorities

The Borno State Scholarships Board wishes to enlighten the general public, students, parents, and all stakeholders on the guiding principles governing the award of scholarships by the Government of Borno State.

The Government of Borno State remains firmly committed to investing in education and human capital development through a transparent, fair, and strategic scholarship programme. Scholarship awards are granted in accordance with established Government policies, available resources, and the State's manpower development priorities as outlined in the Borno State 25-Year Development Plan and the 10-Year Strategic Transformation Initiatives.

The Board has observed increasing public interest and discussions regarding scholarship awards across different fields of study. While such interest demonstrates the value our people place on education, it is important to clarify the policy framework upon which scholarship approvals and disbursements are made.

All scholarship approvals and disbursements are undertaken in accordance with the provisions, objectives, and implementation strategies contained in the Borno State 25-Year Development Plan and the 10-Year Strategic Transformation Initiatives, which serve as the State Government's blueprint for sustainable development and human capital investment.

The Government of Borno State wishes to assure all citizens that it has no policy of excluding or discriminating against any field of specialization. Every discipline contributes meaningfully to the socio-economic development of our State, and the Government recognizes the importance of all professions.

However, scholarship awards are strategically guided by the manpower requirements of the State and the immediate needs of society. Consequently, priority may be accorded to disciplines where there is an urgent demand for qualified professionals in order to accelerate development, strengthen public institutions, and improve service delivery.

It is a matter of public record that Borno State endured years of insurgency, which resulted in the tragic loss of lives, destruction of public infrastructure, displacement of communities, and significant depletion of skilled manpower. Many experienced professionals left the State, particularly within the:

- Health sector;
- Education sector;
- Borno State Civil Service; and
- Other critical public institutions.

Recognizing these challenges, the Borno State 25-Year Development Plan and the 10-Year Strategic Transformation Initiatives identified the rebuilding of human capital in these strategic sectors as a top priority. Consequently, scholarship interventions may, from time to time, place greater emphasis on producing professionals in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, allied health sciences, education, engineering, agriculture, science and technology, environmental management, and other sectors considered critical to the reconstruction and long-term development of the State.

This policy should not be interpreted as a lack of recognition for other academic disciplines. Rather, it reflects the Government's commitment to addressing immediate developmental challenges while maintaining a balanced approach to human capital development across all sectors.

The Borno State Scholarships Board therefore appeals to members of the public to appreciate that scholarship programmes are strategic investments in the future of Borno State. Their implementation is guided by evidence, careful planning, manpower needs, and the overall interest of the State.

The Board remains committed to ensuring that all scholarship processes are conducted with fairness, transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to Government policies.

We therefore call upon students, parents, educational institutions, civil society organizations, and the general public to continue supporting the Government's vision of rebuilding Borno through strategic investments in education and human capital development.

Together, we shall build a stronger, more prosperous, and knowledge-driven Borno State for present and future generations.

Signed

Management
Borno State Scholarships Board
Maiduguri, Borno State

21/07/2026

14/07/2026

PRESS STATEMENT

Northern Nigeria Youth for Transparency in Governance Commends Dr. Bala Isa, Announces Transparency and Open Governance Excellence Award

The Northern Nigeria Youth for Transparency in Governance (NNYTG), a non-partisan advocacy organisation committed to promoting transparency, accountability, innovation, and youth participation in governance, has commended the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Scholarship Board, Dr. Bala Isa, for his exemplary leadership and announced his selection for the Transparency and Open Governance Excellence Award.

Addressing journalists, the Coordinator of the organisation, Usman Abba, said the decision followed the group's careful observation of the remarkable transformation recorded at the Borno State Scholarship Board under the leadership of Dr. Bala Isa.

According to him, since the appointment of Dr. Bala Isa by the administration of Governor Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, the Board has witnessed unprecedented progress in scholarship administration, transparency, and service delivery.

Usman Abba noted that under the current administration, the Borno State Scholarship Scheme has received the highest level of government attention and funding since its establishment, leading to expanded scholarship opportunities for thousands of students studying within and outside Nigeria.

He stated that beyond the increased investment, what impressed the organisation most was Dr. Bala Isa's transparent and people-oriented leadership, which has restored confidence in the Board among students, parents, guardians, and other stakeholders.

«"Our organisation recognises public officials based on measurable performance, accountability, transparency, and impact. After carefully observing the operations of the Borno State Scholarship Board, we found Dr. Bala Isa worthy of recognition for his openness, accessibility, and commitment to public service."»

The Coordinator further stated that Dr. Bala Isa has institutionalised an open-door policy, making himself accessible to scholarship beneficiaries, parents, and guardians. According to him, complaints are attended to promptly, inquiries are treated with respect, and efforts are consistently made to ensure that scholarship payments and other services are delivered transparently and efficiently.

He also commended the cordial working relationship between the Executive Secretary, the Honourable Commissioner for Higher Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Engr. Abubakar Wakilbe, and Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, describing it as a model of teamwork and effective governance that has contributed significantly to the successes recorded by the Board.

«"Leadership is measured by trust and results. Dr. Bala Isa has demonstrated that public office is a responsibility to serve the people with honesty, fairness, and transparency. His leadership has strengthened public confidence in the scholarship system, and that is why we are proud to recognise him."»

Usman Abba announced that the Northern Nigeria Youth for Transparency in Governance has selected Dr. Bala Isa to receive its prestigious Transparency and Open Governance Excellence Award in recognition of his outstanding commitment to transparency, accountability, accessibility, and efficient public service.

He disclosed that the organisation would, in due course, visit Maiduguri to formally present the award to Dr. Bala Isa in appreciation of his remarkable contributions to scholarship administration and educational development in Borno State.

The organisation congratulated Dr. Bala Isa on the well-deserved recognition and expressed confidence that the award would further inspire excellence, integrity, and transparency in public institutions across Northern Nigeria.

Signed

Usman Abba
Coordinator
Northern Nigeria Youth for Transparency in Governance (NNYTG)

07/07/2026

Gov. Zulum Approves ₦1.649bn for 2024/2025 Local Scholarships, Medical, Nursing, STEM and Orphans' Scholarship Schemes

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has approved the release of ₦1,649,048,000 to settle outstanding scholarship obligations, tuition, student welfare and international education support, reinforcing his administration's commitment to human capital development in Borno State.

The Executive Secretary of the Borno State Scholarships Board Dr Bala Isa announced the approval during a press briefing in Maiduguri, describing the intervention as a strategic investment in the future of the state rather than a routine financial commitment.

"This approval is more than a financial intervention. It is another bold declaration that the future of Borno State lies in the education of its young people," the Executive Secretary said.

According to him, the approved funds will cover the settlement of 2024/2025 scholarship awards for eligible students in tertiary institutions across Nigeria; tuition and accommodation fees for 272 Borno medical students at the Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare; tuition fees for 34 MBBS students at Al-Ansar University, Maiduguri; school fees for 60 students of the Nigerian Institute of Leather Science and Technology, Zaria; six months' allowances for Nursing College students under the state scholarship programme; school fees for 300 orphans of Counter-Insurgency Volunteers; return airfare for 133 postgraduate STEM graduates and 39 PhD STEM scholars in India and Malaysia; as well as return airfare for 104 undergraduate scholars studying in China.

The Executive Secretary said the approval reflects Governor Zulum's sustained investment in education despite prevailing economic and security challenges, noting that thousands of Borno students have benefited from scholarships within Nigeria and abroad in critical fields such as medicine, engineering, agriculture, aviation, artificial intelligence, information technology and health sciences.

"Behind every scholarship is a young person whose dreams have been kept alive. Behind every tuition payment is a family relieved of financial burden. Behind every engineer, scientist and medical student is another foundation being laid for the economic transformation of Borno State," he stated.

He assured beneficiaries that the Scholarships Board has commenced the necessary administrative processes to ensure timely disbursement of the approved funds directly to institutions, beneficiaries and service providers in line with established government procedures.

The Executive Secretary commended Governor Zulum for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to educational advancement, while also appreciating the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, members of the State Executive Council, development partners, heads of beneficiary institutions and the staff of the Borno State Scholarships Board for their continued support in strengthening the state's education sector.

Addressing beneficiaries, he urged students to justify the confidence reposed in them by remaining focused on their studies and demonstrating exemplary character.

"Your Government believes in you. Your Government is investing in you. Your Government expects you to justify this confidence through academic excellence, discipline, patriotism and selfless service to humanity," he said.

He added that the knowledge and skills acquired by the beneficiaries would play a vital role in rebuilding communities, strengthening institutions and driving the socio-economic transformation of Borno State.

26/06/2026

BORNO STATE SCHOLARSHIPS BOARD: BUILDING THE FUTURE THROUGH STRATEGIC INVESTMENT IN EDUCATION

Education remains the cornerstone of sustainable development and societal transformation. Recognizing this fundamental truth, the Borno State Government under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, CON, mni, FNSE, FNIAE, has continued to make unprecedented investments in scholarship programs aimed at developing the human capital necessary for the realization of the Borno State 25-Year Development Plan.

The remarkable achievements recorded by the Borno State Scholarships Board in the last two years stand as clear evidence of the administration's commitment to empowering the youth through access to quality education and professional development opportunities.

In 2023, despite a budgetary allocation of ₦1,089,785,000.00, the Borno State Scholarships Board successfully disbursed ₦2,095,307,204.00 to 35,655 beneficiaries comprising both local and foreign scholarship students. This significant intervention ensured that thousands of students across various institutions continued their studies without financial constraints.

The Board's impact expanded considerably in 2024. With a budgetary allocation of ₦2,400,000,000.00, the Board facilitated the disbursement of an impressive ₦6,390,053,019.20 in scholarship support to 29,595 beneficiaries, including 301 foreign students, 27,292 local students, and 2,002 students under special scholarship schemes.

A major highlight of the program is the foreign scholarship initiative, which continues to provide opportunities for Borno indigenes to acquire world-class education in critical fields of study. Currently, the program supports:
• 104 students in China;
• 19 students in Egypt;
• 150 students in India; and
• 28 students in Malaysia.
Beyond tuition fees and academic expenses, the Government also provides monthly upkeep allowances to these students, ensuring their welfare and enabling them to concentrate fully on their studies while serving as ambassadors of Borno State abroad.

The special scholarship scheme has equally recorded tremendous success, supporting students enrolled in strategic institutions, including:
Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare, Bauchi State;
2. Al-Ansar University, Maiduguri;
3. College of Nursing Sciences, Maiduguri;
4. University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital School of Nursing;
5. Federal Polytechnic, Monguno; and
6. 300 Orphans of Counter-Insurgency Volunteers;
National Institute of Leather Sciences and Technology, Zaria, Kaduna State.
The scholarship support provided to these beneficiaries includes tuition assistance and monthly stipends to some of the beneficiaries designed to ease financial burdens and encourage academic excellence.

These achievements underscore the unprecedented commitment of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum to education as a catalyst for rebuilding communities, reducing poverty, promoting social inclusion, and creating a skilled workforce capable of driving economic growth and development.

Through these scholarship interventions, the Government is nurturing future doctors, engineers, nurses, scientists, educators, technologists, entrepreneurs, and public servants who will play vital roles in advancing the developmental aspirations of Borno State for decades to come.

The people of Borno State have every reason to celebrate and appreciate His Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, CON, mni, FNSE, FNIAE, for his bold vision, exemplary leadership, and consistent support for educational development. His investments in scholarship programs represent a lasting legacy that will continue to transform lives and strengthen the state's future.

Special commendation is also due to the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, for his dedication and strategic guidance in the implementation of the Government's educational policies. Equally deserving of recognition is the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Scholarships Board and the entire management and staff of the Board for their professionalism, commitment, and effective administration of one of the most impactful scholarship programs in Nigeria.

The success of the Borno State scholarship program demonstrates that when government invests in education, it invests in prosperity, stability, and sustainable development. As Borno State continues its journey of recovery and transformation, the scholarship program remains a shining example of how strategic investment in human capital can shape a brighter future for generations to come.

Indeed, the Borno State Scholarships Board has become a beacon of educational empowerment, creating opportunities, restoring hope, and building the foundation for a greater and more prosperous Borno State.

09/06/2026

ENGR. WAKILBE VISITS ISAAC BALAMI UNIVERSITY OF AERONAUTICS AND MANAGEMENT, LAGOS

As part of his routine oversight responsibilities and commitment to ensuring the welfare and academic progress of Borno State-sponsored students, the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, Engr. Lawan Abba Wakilbe, FNSE, accompanied by the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Scholarship Board (BSSB), Dr. Bala Isa, paid an official visit to the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management, Lagos.

The oversight visit, which took place between Monday, 8th and Tuesday, 9th June, 2026, was aimed at assessing the quality of training being provided by the institution.

During the visit, the Commissioner and his entourage toured the university's campus located in Oshodi, Lagos, where they inspected academic facilities, lecture halls, laboratories, and students' hostels. The delegation also held interactive sessions with members of the university management, academic staff, and students, providing an opportunity to discuss academic progress, welfare issues, and other matters relating to the students' training and development.

The delegation subsequently proceeded to the university's aircraft hangar at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. At the facility, Engr. Wakilbe inspected the available training equipment, aircraft maintenance workshops.

The delegation was warmly received by members of the university management team, technical personnel, and instructors at both the university campus and the aircraft hangar, who provided detailed briefings on the institution's academic programmes, training methodologies, and future development plans.

22/04/2026

Interested candidates are expected to complete their applications within the six-week window via the official PTDF scholarship portal: https://scholarship.ptdf.gov.ng