Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved a massive N12.9 billion scholarship programme to fully fund 54 indigenes of the state for specialized studies at the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM).
The five-year initiative, unveiled during a cheque presentation at the Government House in Maiduguri on Thursday night, focuses on building expertise in aviation and engineering fields.
It covers degree programmes in aeronautics-related disciplines, engineering streams, and professional certifications including basic pilot training.
Governor Zulum presented an initial cheque of N2.5 billion to cover the first year's tuition, fees, and related costs, with the full package amounting to N12.9 billion over the programme duration.
The 54 beneficiaries, two from each of Borno's 27 Local Government Areas to ensure fair representation were selected from more than 3,000 applicants through a competitive process: an initial shortlist of 1,200 followed by a rigorous written examination.
Breakdown of approved specializations:
10 in Aerospace Engineering
11 in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
11 in Mechatronics Engineering
12 in Software Engineering
10 in Systems Engineering
To ease their transition, each scholar will also receive N500,000 as startup support for logistics and other immediate needs.Addressing the beneficiaries, Governor Zulum stressed the value of focus and discipline: “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.”
The State Commissioner for Education, Lawan Abba Wakilbe, hailed the scheme as a clear demonstration of the governor's dedication to youth empowerment and strategic investment in education.
The university's founder, an indigene of Borno, praised the governor's vision and pledged world-class training.
He expressed confidence that these scholars would play a key role in realizing the institution's ambitious goal of contributing to Nigeria's first indigenously built aircraft.
This landmark investment is expected to position Borno youths at the forefront of innovation in aviation, engineering, and technology, driving sustainable development for the state and beyond.
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