Reps to probe scholarship stipend delays

By Ikenna Osuoha

The House of Representatives has inaugurated an investigation into alleged breaches of terms of engagement and non-payment of scholarship stipends to Nigerian students, both domestically and abroad.

Declaring the hearing open on Wednesday, Speaker Rep. Abbas Tajudeen said the findings would guide future operations of the scholarship scheme.

Abbas was represented by Rep. David Agada.

Tajudeen emphasised the 10th Assembly’s commitment to improving administrative efficiency in stipend payments, noting that delays could negatively affect students’ education, motivation, and overall welfare.

“Any delay in payment undermines education and diminishes students’ morale,” he said, highlighting the potential setbacks caused by bureaucratic inefficiencies.

Chairman of the House Committee on Student Loans, Scholarships, and Higher Education Financing, Rep. Ifeoluwa Ehindero, said the allegations, if confirmed, represented systemic failures and betrayal of national trust.

Ehindero described delayed payments as threats to the academic, psychological, and physical well-being of Nigerian students abroad, stressing that funding and guidance were critical for safeguarding their future.