Tinubu Signs Amended Student Loan Bill, Highlights Importance Of Education In Poverty Alleviation

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday signed the student loan bill into law, before highlighting the importance of education in getting rid of poverty.

The signing ceremony at the State House was attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, Minister of State for Education Hannatu Musawa, Minister of State for Youth Ayodele Olawande, the president of the National Association of Nigerian Students, various government officials and presidential aides.

The president originally signed the student loan bill into law in June, aiming to provide financial aid to Nigerian students in tertiary institutions. However, despite being signed earlier, the bill's implementation encountered delays due to various issues hampering its rollout.

"First of all, I must thank members of the National Assembly for their expeditious handling of this bill considering the children of Nigeria, that education is the tool to fight against poverty effectively," the president said, as per the video shared on official X handle (formerly known as Twitter).

He added, "We are determined to ensure that education is given the proper attention necessary for the country including skills development programs. This is to ensure that no one, no matter how poor their background is, is excluded from quality education and opportunity to build their future."

The president said everyone gathered for the ceremony because education has been instrumental in shaping lives. He recalled that in the past, Nigerians have witnessed many children dropping out of college, forfeiting their opportunities. However, Tinubu noted, that era was over.

The standards and regulations are now in place for everyone to apply, regardless of their background, as long as they are Nigerian citizens.

It was announced in February that the federal government will pay stipends to unemployed Nigerian youths as the country is going through an economic crisis. However, these social security payments will be for youth holding a Nigerian Certificate of Education.

In the same month, Tinubu revealed his plans to create millions of job opportunities by unlocking trillions in public wealth to optimize and double Nigeria's GDP.