The First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, announced that no fewer than 1.2 million students will benefit from the first phase of the student education loan scheme, which commenced on May 24.

Mrs. Tinubu made this disclosure at the State House on Sunday during the Nigerian Youth Celebration themed “Becoming: Pathway to Success.”

The event marked the first anniversary of President Tinubu’s administration.

“It is noteworthy that President Tinubu’s administration has been exceptionally youth-friendly, demonstrating a strong commitment to youth inclusion in empowerment and governance,” she stated. “This is evident in the unprecedented appointment of young leaders as ministers, heads of agencies, and parastatals, as well as the full implementation of the Student Loan Scheme.”

Mrs. Tinubu also expressed her dedication to supporting and encouraging the youth through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), which aims to complement the president’s efforts in education, agriculture, social investment, and economic empowerment.

She assured the youth that the current administration is committed to improving the lives of Nigerians.

“We will continue to do our best to provide an enabling environment that fosters and supports the youth as active participants in national development and in rewriting Nigeria’s story for good,” she said. “I urge you to keep believing in Nigeria. By the grace of God, we will witness the rebirth of a new nation that will take its rightful place among the comity of nations.”

Mrs. Tinubu encouraged the panel of discussants at the event to share their wealth of experience to guide the participants.

Panelists included Mr. Tunde Onakoya, a Nigerian chess player and coach who holds the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon chess game, and 2nd Lt. Oluchukwu Owowoh, the first Nigerian woman commissioned from the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and the most outstanding cadet among her peers.

“Not only did you make history, but you also emerged as the most outstanding cadet among your peers. You are an inspiration to so many young girls,” Mrs. Tinubu said. She also commended budding fashion designer Hauwa for her creativity and passion, and Iyinoluwa for his contributions to the African innovation and investment landscape, alongside other tech gurus and innovators shaping the future of Nigeria and the continent.

The Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Dr. Jamila Ibrahim, also praised the First Lady for organizing the program.