Zulum okays ₦706m scholarship for CJTF orphans, students in Borno

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved ₦706,594,787.50 for scholarships benefiting orphans of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and various categories of Borno students studying within and outside the country.

The Executive Secretary of the Borno State Scholarship Board, Dr. Bala Isa, announced the approval on Monday in Maiduguri, stating that the release of funds takes immediate effect.

He explained that 300 orphans of fallen CJTF members—who played crucial roles in supporting security agencies in the fight against Boko Haram—are among the primary beneficiaries.

Also included are 206 students of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare, under the state’s special scholarship scheme; 34 students of Al-Ansar University, Maiduguri; and repatriated students from Sudan who need support to regain academic stability after the conflict.

Dr. Isa added that the package covers 104 nursing students preparing for their professional examinations at the College of Nursing Sciences, Maiduguri, as well as upkeep allowances for 523 nursing students for five months.

It also includes the second tranche of payments for 304 postgraduate students in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programmes in Nigerian universities.

He noted that the intervention highlights the governor’s commitment to education as a central pillar of Borno’s ongoing reconstruction, rehabilitation and resettlement drive.

According to him, the initiative sends a clear message that no willing student will be left behind.

Dr. Isa assured that the Scholarship Board remains committed to transparency, accountability and prompt disbursement of all funds.

He also expressed appreciation to Governor Zulum for his consistent support, describing his leadership as a beacon of hope for young people across the state.