The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a ₦50 million grant initiative aimed at supporting high-performing students in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM) disciplines.
The program, unveiled by the Ministry of Education, targets undergraduates from 300 level and above in Nigerian universities, with the goal of fostering research and entrepreneurial ventures in critical sectors of the economy.
The announcement, made during a press briefing in Abuja on July 2, 2025, is part of the government’s broader strategy to drive innovation and address Nigeria’s technological and scientific challenges.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, emphasized that the grant would empower young Nigerians to develop solutions to pressing national issues, including energy, healthcare, and digital transformation.
“This ₦50 million grant is a testament to President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to building a knowledge-based economy,” Dr. Alausa stated.
“We are investing in our brightest minds in STEMM fields to ensure they have the resources to innovate, conduct groundbreaking research, and create entrepreneurial opportunities that will transform Nigeria.”
The grant is open to students who demonstrate academic excellence and innovative potential in their respective fields.
Eligible candidates must be enrolled in accredited Nigerian universities and have a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 4.0 or its equivalent. The funds can be used for research projects, prototype development, or startup ventures aligned with STEMM disciplines.
The initiative has been welcomed by stakeholders in the education sector, with university administrators and student leaders praising the government’s focus on STEMM. Prof. Aisha Mohammed, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, described the grant as a “game-changer” for students and the nation.
“This is a step in the right direction. Supporting STEMM students will not only boost academic research but also position Nigeria as a hub for technological innovation,” she said.
However, some students have raised concerns about the accessibility of the grant, urging the government to ensure transparency in the selection process.
“The criteria must be clear, and the process should be free from favoritism to truly benefit deserving students,” said Chinedu Okeke, a 400-level engineering student at Ahmadu Bello University.
The Ministry of Education has assured that a rigorous and transparent selection process will be implemented, with a dedicated committee overseeing the application and disbursement process.
Applications are set to open in August 2025, with further details to be provided through university portals and the ministry’s website.
The grant comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with brain drain in its STEMM sectors, as many talented graduates seek opportunities abroad. Analysts believe this initiative could help retain talent and encourage homegrown innovation.
The government has also hinted at plans to expand the program in subsequent years, potentially increasing the funding pool and including postgraduate students.
As Nigeria looks to strengthen its position in the global knowledge economy, the ₦50 million STEMM grant represents a significant step toward empowering the next generation of scientists, engineers, and medical professionals to drive national development.
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