President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that no student drops out of tertiary institutions due to financial constraints.

Speaking at the 33rd convocation ceremony of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) in Ondo State on Saturday, President Tinubu emphasised his government’s dedication to addressing the challenges facing higher education in Nigeria.

The President, represented by Professor King-David Terna Yawe of the National University Commission (NUC), acknowledged the difficulties facing the education sector but highlighted the steps his administration is taking to alleviate these concerns. He pointed to the Student Loan Bill, signed into law shortly after his inauguration, as a testament to his government’s commitment to supporting students.

“My government will not shirk its responsibilities in this area,” President Tinubu said. “We will guarantee that educational institutions receive the necessary resources to effectively carry out their statutory responsibilities. One of my first actions as President of Nigeria was to sign the Student Loan Bill into law to put this into action.”

He elaborated on the provisions of the bill, explaining that it will provide interest-free loans to financially challenged students in all tertiary institutions. These loans will be repaid at the students’ convenience upon securing employment.

“Under my leadership, and as I have outlined in my manifesto, no student will be forced to drop out of school due to an inability to pay tuition,” President Tinubu declared.

Earlier in the ceremony, FUTA Vice Chancellor Prof Adenike Temidayo Oladiji expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his unwavering support of the education sector. She commended his efforts to enhance the quality of education and make it accessible to all Nigerians.