In a bold move to empower Nigerian youth and drive self-employment, the Federal Government is set to unveil a ₦300 billion Graduate Entrepreneurship Fund, according to the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa.
Speaking at the 28th Convocation Lecture of Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, Dr. Alausa revealed that each graduate may access up to ₦10 million, with potential for higher sums based on need. The initiative aims to transition Nigeria from a resource-based to a knowledge-based economy, supporting young graduates in launching and sustaining their own businesses.
Supporting Education as a Catalyst for Nation-Building
Delivering a lecture titled “Patriotism, Citizenship, and National Ownership: The Imperative of Collective Responsibility for Nigeria’s Future,” the Minister emphasized the central role of education in fostering national values and economic progress.
“Patriotism is more than attachment to symbols — it’s about active engagement in building the nation,” Dr. Alausa said.
“Citizenship means loyalty, obedience to the law, and protecting national resources. Education connects all these elements and is the catalyst for real change.”
He outlined the administration’s ongoing commitment to education through:
- Equitable access to learning opportunities
- Emphasis on technical, vocational, and entrepreneurial education
- Support for the girl child
- Robust quality assurance systems
Student Loan Scheme Already Underway
Dr. Alausa also highlighted the progress of the new student loan scheme, which has already disbursed ₦45 billion to help students fund their education. This, he said, is part of a broader effort by the Bola Tinubu-led administration to reshape the nation’s educational and economic future.
Calls for National Unity and Patriotism
Also speaking at the event, LASU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, encouraged citizens to embrace a renewed sense of patriotism and shared responsibility.
“Nigeria is not just a geographical space — it is a collective dream built by our heroes. The future of this nation lies in the hands of all citizens,” she said.
Chairman of the occasion and APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, further emphasized that education is the foundation for solving many of society’s challenges.
A Hopeful Outlook for Graduate Entrepreneurs
With the upcoming ₦300 billion fund, the Federal Government is signaling a transformative shift in how it supports youth entrepreneurship. If implemented effectively, the initiative could:
- Spark innovation among young graduates
- Reduce unemployment
- Strengthen Nigeria’s knowledge economy
As the program rolls out, attention will turn to how accessible, transparent, and impactful the funding process will be — and whether it can truly help build a new generation of self-reliant Nigerian entrepreneurs.
