The member representing Akwanga North Constituency in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Mr Larry Ven-Bawa, has approved the disbursement of N20 million to more than 670 students from his constituency studying in various tertiary institutions across the country.
Ven-Bawa said the initiative was designed to complement the efforts of Governor Abdullahi Sule, as well as parents and guardians, in supporting the education of young people in the constituency.
The lawmaker made this known on Wednesday during the disbursement ceremony held in Akwanga Local Government Area under the Hon. Ven-Bawa 3rd Edition of the Annual Value Addition Scholarship and Empowerment Scheme 2026.
Speaking at the event, Ven-Bawa, who also serves as the Chief Whip of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, described the programme as part of his commitment to adding value to the lives of students and residents of Akwanga North.
“This is the third edition of this scholarship and empowerment programme. It is aimed at supporting your parents and guardians in your educational pursuit,” he said.
He commended Governor Sule for prioritising education through consistent budgetary allocations, stressing that education remains the foundation of any progressive society.
“There is no greater legacy a parent or leader can leave for a child than education. I want to join your parents and guardians in the fight against illiteracy,” Ven-Bawa added.
Breaking down the disbursement, the lawmaker explained that 400 undergraduate students would receive N15,000 each, 100 NCE and diploma students would get N10,000 each, while 50 postgraduate students would receive N20,000 each.
Ven-Bawa assured constituents of his continued commitment to initiating policies and programmes that would positively impact students and other residents of the constituency. He urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the funds to improve their academic performance.
He also advised students to shun examination malpractice, cultism, and other social vices, encouraging them to remain focused on their studies. Additionally, he called on constituents to continue supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Abdullahi Sule, and other leaders for sustained development.
In separate remarks, the ALGON Chairman and Chairman of Akwanga Local Government Area, Alhaji Safiyanu Isa, alongside the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Kwanta Yakubu, commended Ven-Bawa for his consistency in supporting students through the scholarship scheme.
They noted that the initiative would help reduce the financial burden on parents and guardians while contributing to improved educational standards in the constituency. Both leaders also passed a vote of confidence on Ven-Bawa’s leadership.
Similarly, the Vice-Chancellor of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Prof. Sada’atu Liman, represented by Prof. Usman Gbari, the APC Chairman in Akwanga LGA, Mr Abbas Liman, and the Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Mr Ezekiel Jonathan, praised the lawmaker for prioritising the welfare of students and the community.
They urged students and constituents to continue supporting Ven-Bawa beyond 2027.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Aishatu Zubairu and Usman Abdullahi expressed gratitude to the lawmaker for the gesture and prayed for God’s blessings upon him. They also pledged their continued support for his leadership beyond 2027.