By Sochima Agbo 

Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has launched a groundbreaking ₦100 billion annual scholarship initiative aimed at expanding access to quality education for millions of Nigerian children and youths. The scheme, announced on Thursday in Lagos under the Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF), is projected to inject ₦1 trillion into the nation’s education sector over the next 10 years—making it one of the largest private educational investments in Nigeria’s history.

According to Dangote, the programme will support students at all levels - basic, secondary, tertiary, and vocational, through a transparent, merit-based system. The Foundation will partner with key national institutions, including NELFUND, NECO, WAEC, and other government agencies, to ensure fairness and accountability in the selection and disbursement process. He also revealed that 25 per cent of his personal wealth has been dedicated to the Foundation, a commitment he says will extend beyond his lifetime.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who officially unveiled the scholarship fund, described the initiative as a transformative intervention capable of reshaping Nigeria’s human capital landscape. He commended Dangote’s “structural and generational philanthropy,” stressing that education is central to unlocking the country’s potential.

“This is the time to build a future in which every Nigerian child has a fair shot,” Shettima said. “With interventions like this, we are opening doors that will outlive us.”

The Vice President urged more private sector actors to emulate the Foundation’s efforts, noting that Nigeria cannot reverse its low Human Capital Index without massive investments in learning and skills development.

Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, hailed the scholarship scheme as one of the most comprehensive human capital development programmes ever introduced in the country. He disclosed that 25 per cent of the scholarship slots will be reserved for persons living with disabilities - an inclusive provision he described as “humane and forward-thinking.”

United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed also praised the initiative, highlighting its strong emphasis on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), which she said would create new pathways for millions of young Nigerians, especially girls.

State governors, represented by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, pledged full support, with Lagos committing to align its own education budget priorities with the initiative.

Traditional rulers, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, and the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage (rtd), also lauded the scholarship fund, describing it as a timely intervention capable of transforming the nation’s future.

The ADF ₦100bn annual scholarship fund is expected to begin implementation immediately, marking a major milestone in Nigeria’s quest to expand equitable access to education and equip the next generation for global competitiveness.