Abia Governor’s Chief of Staff Sponsors Free JAMB Registration, Bursary for Students

The Chief of Staff to the Abia State Governor, Caleb Ajagba, has funded free Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) registration and bursary support for more than 180 students in Umuezegu Nsulu, offering financial relief to young people from low-income families.

The initiative, which was personally financed by Ajagba, is aimed at removing financial barriers that often prevent qualified students from pursuing higher education. By covering key academic expenses, the programme seeks to give beneficiaries a fair chance to access university education and build sustainable futures.

Speaking during the disbursement, Ajagba described education as one of the most reliable pathways to long-term success, stressing that no student should be denied opportunities due to financial hardship.

Personal intervention, not government funding

Ajagba clarified that the initiative was not funded by the Abia State Government but was his individual contribution to youth development. According to him, the goal was to support students who might otherwise be forced to abandon their academic ambitions.

He noted that while the administration of Alex Otti has introduced programmes such as the Abia Leadership Academy and TechRise to equip young people with modern skills, individual efforts like his bursary scheme can further expand access to education.

Ajagba encouraged beneficiaries to use the opportunity responsibly and remain committed to their academic goals. He emphasised that education has the power to transform families and communities, urging students to see the support as a stepping stone toward a better future.

Chief of Staff shares personal academic struggles

In a personal reflection, Ajagba revealed that he wrote the JAMB examination eight times before eventually gaining university admission, highlighting the importance of persistence and resilience.

He said his journey serves as proof that setbacks do not define a person’s future and urged students not to give up in the face of challenges. According to him, determination and discipline remain essential ingredients for success.

He also assured beneficiaries that the programme is part of a broader vision to empower young people in Abia State, with plans to extend support beyond academic sponsorship to include vocational training and entrepreneurship initiatives.

Beneficiaries describe the initiative as life-changing

Students who benefited from the programme expressed gratitude, describing the support as timely and transformative. Many said the financial assistance has restored their confidence and renewed their determination to pursue higher education.

Some beneficiaries noted that without the bursary and free JAMB registration, continuing their academic journey would have been difficult due to financial constraints.

The initiative reflects growing efforts within Abia State to strengthen human capital development through education and youth empowerment. By investing in students at the grassroots level, the programme aims to create long-term opportunities and build a generation better equipped to contribute to the state’s economic and social progress.

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