The House of Representatives has commenced a formal investigation into alleged delays and irregularities in the disbursement of scholarship stipends to Nigerian students both within the country and abroad.
The probe was officially launched on Wednesday, with Speaker Abbas Tajudeen emphasising that the inquiry aims to ensure transparency, accountability, and improved administrative efficiency in scholarship management.
Represented at the opening by Hon. David Agada, the Speaker noted that delayed stipends risk undermining students’ academic progress, morale, and overall welfare.
“Any delay in stipend payments not only disrupts students’ education but also diminishes their motivation,” Tajudeen stated.
He added that the 10th Assembly is committed to safeguarding students’ interests and ensuring government support reaches them promptly.
Chairman of the House Committee on Student Loans, Scholarships, and Higher Education Financing, Hon. Ifeoluwa Ehindero, described the reported delays as a potential betrayal of national trust.
He warned that the consequences extend beyond academics, impacting students’ psychological and physical well-being, especially for those studying abroad.
Ehindero clarified that the committee’s work is strictly a fact-finding mission, asserting that inefficiency, mismanagement, or corruption would not be tolerated.
He urged all stakeholders to provide complete and accurate documentation, warning against misleading information or false testimony.
Contributing to the hearing, Ms. Ndajiwo Asta, Director at the Federal Scholarship Board, confirmed that stipends had been fully paid up to 2022, with reported delays beginning in 2023.
The committee intended to investigate the underlying causes of these delays, verify disbursement records, and assess whether proper procedures and accountability measures were followed.
The investigation signals a renewed focus by the House on student welfare and educational support, with lawmakers promising that findings from the inquiry will guide future improvements in scholarship administration.
