Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, has approved an over 100 percent increase in scholarship allowances for students of Gombe State origin across all categories of study.
The approval, which marks the first comprehensive review of scholarship payments in the state since 2005, was announced by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Muhammad Shettima Gadam, in Gombe on Tuesday.
According to Gadam, the Governor’s directive fulfils his earlier promise to significantly review upward and ensure the timely payment of students’ scholarship allowances.
“His Excellency, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, has graciously approved a new and expanded scholarship structure that doubles the current allowance across all categories of students,” Gadam stated. “This is a historic intervention — the first of its kind in nearly two decades.”
Our correspondent gathered that under the new arrangement, PhD, MSc, and PGD students will receive ₦30,000 each, while degree and HND students will receive ₦22,000 each. Likewise, NCE and ND students will receive ₦18,000, and Certificate students ₦12,000 per session.
The governor also approved a special increase for persons with disabilities, raising their total allowance to ₦40,000, in line with his administration’s commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity.
Speaking further Gadam disclosed that the adjustment reflects Muhammadu Yahaya administration’s dedication to investing in education as the foundation for Gombe’s future.
“Our young people are the strength and hope of Gombe State. By investing in their education and welfare, we are securing the future of our state. This increment is about our belief that every student deserves the chance to succeed,” he added.
He added that his government will continue to build a knowledge-driven, equitable, and opportunity-rich society where no group or individual is left behind.
“Education remains at the centre of our development agenda,” he noted. “We will continue to support our students and institutions because they represent the future of our communities and our state.”
Since assuming office, the Yahaya-led administration has declared a state of emergency on education, undertaken major reforms in the sector, rehabilitated schools, and invested in teacher training and infrastructure.
It will be recalled that the governor had earlier cleared the backlog of scholarship arrears, restoring confidence and ensuring that Gombe students received their entitlements promptly.
Meanwhile, the Gombe State Scholarship Board has announced that verification and screening exercises for eligible students will commence soon, with detailed schedules and modalities to be released in due course.
“We urge all students to prepare for the verification process once the schedule is released,” Gadam said. “Governor Yahaya’s commitment has set a new standard for educational support in Gombe State.”
