By JKNewsMedia
OVER ₦2BILLION has been committed to a nationwide university scholarship programme designed to empower young Nigerians with fully-funded education in high-impact fields.
Branded Beyond Education, the initiative was announced on Democracy Day as part of a long-term strategy to equip future leaders and dismantle systemic barriers to tertiary learning across the country.
This marks one of the most significant private sector investments in a single Nigerian university, reinforcing Sterling Bank’s strategic focus on the HEART sectors, Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation.
With over half a trillion naira already deployed across these critical sectors, the bank continues to lead by example in inclusive, long-term development.
“These scholarships are direct investments in the architects of our future,” said Abubakar Suleiman, Chief Executive of Sterling Bank.
“We are funding the education of those who will build the companies, systems, institutions, and solutions Nigeria needs to thrive.”
The Beyond Education programme will fully sponsor 600 students to pursue studies in areas such as Technology, Finance, Sales, and Public Health.
Open to young Nigerians from all 36 states and the FCT, the scheme uses a merit-based, transparent selection process. Candidates may apply independently or be nominated, with final selection determined through public voting open exclusively to Sterling account holders.
“This is what inclusive investment looks like,” said Obinna Ukachukwu, Growth Executive overseeing the Retail & Consumer Banking Directorate.
“It’s not just about access to education—it’s about access to a future. Education remains the most valuable asset, and we are proud to back these young Nigerians as they claim it.”
The pilot phase of the programme is in partnership with Miva University, an accredited institution founded by tech entrepreneur Sim Shagaya.
Miva is redefining access to higher education through flexible, scalable learning models that meet the demands of Africa’s digital economy.
Beyond Education also reflects a deeper shift in Sterling’s corporate strategy—from short-term charity to sustainable ecosystem development.
Alongside this educational investment, the bank continues to back projects in digitised healthcare, school financing, agricultural cooperatives, solar infrastructure, and affordable transport.
“We’re moving beyond charity,” Suleiman said.
“This is about building systems that last. It’s far more than a scholarship fund—it’s about the future those young minds will help create for our country.”
Nominations are currently open via www.sterling.ng/FUTURE, offering a new pathway for youth empowerment that places education and innovation at the heart of national development.
