The National Association of Kogi State Law Students of Nigeria (NAKOLSON) has commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his transformative initiatives in education. The association celebrated the governor’s approval of a ₦300,000 bursary allowance for Kogi State citizens enrolled in the Nigerian Law School, describing it as a historic gesture that has brought immense relief to beneficiaries.
In a statement signed by NAKOLSON President Ismail Salifu, the association highlighted the significance of the intervention. “This is not only historic but also memorable and heartwarming for us,” Salifu stated.
“We honestly did not expect this approval, given that such provisions were not made for those who passed through the Nigerian Law School before us. However, this governor has taken a different and progressive approach. In fact, we were aware that some of our peers from more economically advantaged states received between ₦200,000 and ₦250,000. Naturally, we set our expectations around these figures—if at all the bursary would be approved. But the governor surprised us by approving ₦300,000, a sum that goes above and beyond our expectations,” he added.
The bursary comes as a lifeline for many law students facing financial strain in the current economic climate. Salifu noted that many students had relied on loans or family support to fund their education.
“This news came at the right time. Many of our mates had to rely on their parents borrowing money to fund their admission to the Law School. On campus, students are struggling to make ends meet due to the harsh economic realities. Governor Ododo’s intervention is not just a financial relief; it is a testament to his commitment to the well-being of students. Truly, he is a man of the people whose impact is felt across all sectors,” he said.
Salifu also acknowledged the Chairman of the Kogi State Scholarship Board, Hon. Raji Afolabi, for his diligent efforts in ensuring that eligible students benefit from the initiative.
In addition to the law school bursary, NAKOLSON praised Governor Ododo for his consistent support of education in Kogi State. The recent approval of ₦600 million to cover WAEC fees for 18,734 students in public secondary schools was particularly lauded. The initiative ensures that no student is excluded from critical educational opportunities, reinforcing the governor’s commitment to nurturing the next generation.
The association also applauded Governor Ododo’s accomplishments in governance, particularly in infrastructure, healthcare, and the welfare of civil servants. Of note is the implementation of a ₦72,500 minimum wage for state civil servants, which exceeds the provisions of many wealthier states.
“Governor Ododo’s ability to implement a ₦72,500 minimum wage, ahead of many states with larger revenues from the federation account and internally generated revenue, is a clear testament to his people-focused leadership. It is clear that the governor prioritizes the welfare of the people, and his actions have earned him widespread admiration,” Salifu concluded.
NAKOLSON expressed confidence in Governor Ododo’s continued dedication to addressing the needs of students and residents. His forward-thinking policies and impactful initiatives are setting a new benchmark for leadership in Kogi State, cementing his legacy as a transformative and people-focused leader.
Melissa Enoch
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