The Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmad Aliyu, has unveiled a comprehensive initiative aimed at bolstering access to higher education for indigent students within the state. This initiative, announced by the Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Isa Maishanu, encompasses the complete waiver of registration fees for the 2025/2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and Direct Entry (DE) processes. Recognizing the multifaceted financial barriers faced by less privileged families, Governor Aliyu’s intervention extends beyond the initial application fee to include coverage of the online registration costs, ensuring a truly accessible pathway for aspiring undergraduates. This move aligns directly with the governor’s nine-point agenda, underscoring his commitment to expanding educational opportunities and empowering the youth of Sokoto State.
The implementation of this initiative is meticulously structured to ensure equitable distribution and transparency. The distribution of the crucial JAMB/UTME and DE PINs, the unique identification codes required for registration, will be decentralized across the state’s 23 local government secretariats. This decentralized approach enhances accessibility for prospective students, eliminating geographical barriers and minimizing logistical challenges. Interested candidates are required to visit their designated local government secretariat to collect and complete the necessary data forms, ensuring a documented and organized process. Oversight of the entire exercise rests with the Sokoto State Ministry for Higher Education, guaranteeing adherence to established procedures and accountability in the allocation of these valuable resources.
To initiate the application process, prospective beneficiaries must first generate a unique Profile Code. This code is generated by texting their eleven-digit National Identification Number (NIN), preceded by the keyword “NIN” and a space, to the designated shortcode 55019. This initial step serves as a crucial identifier, linking individuals to their application and facilitating subsequent communication and processing. This digital approach streamlines the process, aligning with modern technological advancements and reducing the potential for bureaucratic delays.
Eligibility for this generous support hinges on fulfilling specific academic criteria. Candidates must possess a minimum of five credits in their qualifying examinations, including mandatory credits in Mathematics and English Language. These core subjects are fundamental to success in tertiary education, and the requirement underscores the importance of a strong foundational education. By setting this benchmark, the program encourages academic excellence and ensures that beneficiaries are adequately prepared for the rigors of university-level studies. The emphasis on academic preparedness aligns with the broader objective of ensuring the success of the beneficiaries throughout their tertiary education journey.
The Ministry for Higher Education, in its official statement announcing the initiative, strongly encourages all beneficiaries to diligently pursue their studies and maximize the opportunities afforded by this generous support. This support is not merely a financial reprieve; it represents an investment in the future of these students and, by extension, the future of Sokoto State. The ministry’s call for dedication reflects the understanding that access, while crucial, is only the first step. Success in higher education requires consistent effort, commitment, and a genuine desire to learn and grow. The state’s investment is a catalyst for individual and collective progress, aiming to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to society.
This comprehensive program stands as a testament to the commitment of the Sokoto State government to education as a driving force for development. By removing financial barriers and streamlining access to higher education for indigent students, Governor Aliyu’s administration is not just providing access to education but investing in the human capital that is essential for the growth and prosperity of the state. This initiative promises to create a ripple effect, empowering individuals, families, and communities, and ultimately contributing to a brighter future for Sokoto State. It is a powerful example of how targeted interventions can positively impact the lives of young people and create pathways for upward mobility, breaking cycles of poverty and fostering inclusive development.
