The Ondo State Government has announced a 100% increase in the bursary allocated to all indigent students of the state who are enrolled in recognised tertiary institutions across Nigeria, including both public and private schools.
The boost was disclosed by the Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Laolu Akindolire during a consultative meeting with stakeholders in Akure regarding the 2026 Budget.
Akindolire stated that the decision is a direct result of “deliberate fiscal planning and resource prioritisation” by the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
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He described the move as a remarkable demonstration of the administration’s commitment to inclusive development and human capital investment.
“This bold and strategic decision is coming at a time when many states are grappling with economic strain,” the Commissioner noted.
He called it a “reaffirmation of Aiyedatiwa’s unwavering belief in the transformative power of education” and the need to support young indigenes as future economic pillars.
The commissioner explained that the policy is rooted in a deep understanding of the financial difficulties faced by many students and their families, asserting that for some, the bursary is the crucial factor preventing them from dropping out of school.
He emphasised that doubling the support, despite “lean resources,” underscores the government’s priority of youth as critical stakeholders in the state’s future.
The bursary increment, which is part of a broader strategy to build an empowered and resilient youth population, will benefit thousands of state indigenes in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
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The state government also appealed to the private sector, development partners, and philanthropic individuals to join hands with the state in promoting youth development and education.
A student leader, Ganiyu Yusuf, hailed the initiative, stating: “This shows that the government is thinking about us. It’s not just about roads and buildings, this bursary is food, books, rent, and peace of mind.”
