Sterling Bank names first beneficiaries of N2bn scholarship

Sterling Bank has unveiled the first 30 recipients of its ₦2 billion Beyond Education Scholarship, a nationwide initiative aimed at funding university education for 600 exceptional young Nigerians while connecting them to career opportunities in high-impact sectors.

In a statement on Thursday, the bank described the programme as a strategic investment in human capital and a key driver of inclusive national development. Launched in June 2025, the scheme fully covers undergraduate tuition at Miva Open University — Nigeria’s first licensed online private university — and Hillside University of Science & Technology, a STEM-focused institution in Ekiti State.

The Beyond Education programme goes beyond financial aid, offering recipients real-world pathways to employment and socio-economic mobility. It aligns with Sterling’s HEART strategy — its investment focus on Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation.

“This is more than a scholarship. It’s a national development strategy,” said Obinna Ukachukwu, Growth Executive for Consumer and Business Banking at Sterling Bank. “We’re closing the gap between education and employability, preparing young people for the future of work in sectors that matter most to Nigeria’s progress.”

Transparent Selection Process

The inaugural 30 scholars were chosen through a transparent, community-driven voting process open to Sterling Bank account holders. Nominees were vetted to ensure they met admission requirements at the partner universities.

The beneficiaries include Abdulahi Afolabi, Damilare Tijani, Abdulwahab Eniafe, Abubakar Isah, Tahir Enesi Ibrahim, Julius Agbene Agbo, Chinedu Kelechi Patrick, Ayomide Ojo, Fyneseed Nwogu, Miracle Woyinmomoemi Daniel, Serene Clinton, Temiloluwa Orekunrin, Udeme Umoh, Victor Esogwa, Rosemary Kosipre, Ali Mohammed, Usman Isiaka Ololade, Kayode Aikulola, Saviour Philip, Ademola Afolabi, Emmanuel Enekwa, Bashir Sani Ibrahim, Ezekiel Adeseye, Deborah Umeaku, Abba Kaka Lawan, Haisam Sunusi Mahmuda, John Gumuan, Afan Ajiji, Bajepade Kehinde, and Chioma Igwe.

Sustainable Structure

While the scholarship covers full tuition, recipients are responsible for costs such as internet access, learning materials, and living expenses — a design Sterling says will ensure the programme’s sustainability and scalability.

With 570 scholarships still to be awarded, the bank reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to quality education and building a future-ready workforce for Nigeria.