Twenty students of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, have received N300,000 each under the OPay National Scholarship Initiative for undergraduates in Nigeria.
The disbursement, amounting to N6 million for AAU, was facilitated by the Edo State Government through the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
OPay Digital Services, in a statement on Thursday, said the nationwide initiative, valued at N1.2 billion, was launched in early 2025 to support indigent students across 20 universities and promote access to quality education in line with SDG 4. The programme will run for 10 years.
Speaking on the development, Ms. Sally Suleiman, Special Adviser to Gov. Monday Okpebholo on SDGs, described the initiative as a landmark achievement.
“Although the process took some time, this fulfilment marks a new dawn for indigent students in AAU, giving them hope and support in their academic journey. This is more than just a grant; it is proof that our promises are being fulfilled,” she said.
She added that the effort reinforced Edo State’s alignment with SDG 4 and appreciated OPay Digital Services for the partnership, while also commending Gov. Okpebholo’s commitment to inclusive development.
One of the beneficiaries, Blessing Iyoha, a 100-level Human Anatomy student, said the payment brought huge relief.
“I am going to use it to pay my school fees, and I won’t have to bother my parents too much this semester,” she said.
Another beneficiary, Victory Eshere, a 200-level Biochemistry student, said the scholarship would support her in many aspects of her academic journey.
