By Abdulwahab Muhammad
Published by Alphapressmedia
Beneficiaries of the Bauchi State Government Special Scholarship pProgramme have expressed appreciation to the state government for securing the release of their long-withheld academic certificates after years of uncertainty and hardship.The eighty-four graduates of Igbinedion University Okada conveyed their gratitude during the formal presentation of certificates by Governor Bala Mohammed at the Government House, Bauchi.Speaking on behalf of the graduands, Isa Muhammad Shamsuddeen said the delay had stalled careers, prevented professional licensing, and denied many opportunities despite completing demanding programmes in medicine, pharmacy, and engineering.The graduates noted that beyond the certificates, the gesture restored their dignity, renewed confidence, and affirmed their place in society, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the development of the State and beyond.They also pledged to uphold excellence and justify the investment in their education, while calling for policies that would prevent future delays for sponsored students across the state.Presenting the certificates, Governor Bala Mohammed, represented by his Deputy Auwal Jatau, described the resolution as a defining achievement, emphasizing the government’s commitment to settling inherited obligations and prioritizing citizens’ Education.He explained that the approval of full payment of over one hundred and thirty nine million naira ensured final clearance with the university and facilitated the immediate release of certificates to the graduates.Earlier, the State Commissioner for Higher Education and Regional Integration, Hadiza Abdulkadir Kango, commended the students for their maturity in pursuing the release of their certificates, attributing the government’s intervention to its recognition of the value of education and commitment to securing the students’ future.The event featured the presentation of certificates to the graduates, as well as goodwill messages from parents and other key stakeholders.Bauchi Settles ₦139m Debt, Hands Over Certificates to Sponsored Graduates After Years of DelayThe Bauchi State Government has resolved a long-standing impasse involving the release of certificates to students sponsored under its tertiary education intervention programme, bringing long-awaited relief to affected graduates.Representing Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed at the presentation ceremony, the Deputy Governor described the event as a significant milestone, noting that although it came years after the students completed their studies, its importance had only grown over time. He acknowledged the difficulties faced by the graduates, whose certificates were withheld due to an outstanding debt of over ₦139 million owed to Igbinedion University, Okada.The Deputy Governor explained that the students were sponsored during the 2013 and 2014 academic sessions to study critical courses such as Medicine, Pharmacy, and Engineering, aimed at addressing manpower needs in key sectors of the state. Despite graduating between 2017 and 2018, the delay in settling the financial obligations prevented them from accessing their certificates and advancing in their careers.He said the situation was resolved following Governor Mohammed’s approval for the full and final settlement of the outstanding liabilities, stressing that the intervention demonstrates the administration’s commitment to ensuring that no citizen of the state is left behind.Earlier, the Commissioner for Higher Education, Hajiya Hadiza Abdulkadir Kango, recounted the prolonged efforts made by successive administrations to address the issue, noting that previous attempts only led to the release of certificates in batches without fully resolving the debt.She explained that following the Governor’s directive, a delegation from the ministry engaged the university management, completed negotiations, and facilitated payments that led to the systematic release of the certificates. According to her, several batches were retrieved between August 2025 and January 2026, while arrangements were also made to refund students who had independently settled their fees.The Commissioner added that the ministry had also reconciled records of graduates who previously collected their certificates individually, ensuring that all beneficiaries are properly accounted for and recognized.Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Isa Muhammad Shamsuddeen expressed gratitude to the state government for ending years of uncertainty, stating that the intervention had restored their professional dignity and renewed their hope for the future.He noted that many graduates had faced stalled careers and missed opportunities due to the delay, but described the eventual release of the certificates as a turning point that would enable them to fully pursue their professional aspirations.The event, attended by government officials, graduates, and their families, marked the end of a prolonged struggle and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to prioritizing education and investing in the future of its youth.
