Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has come to the aid of 84 students from the state who had been stranded for years in Northern Cyprus by settling their outstanding tuition and accommodation fees, totaling ₦2.24 billion.
The affected students were part of a scholarship initiative introduced by former Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, but the programme was suspended under the subsequent administration of Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
This led to severe hardship for the students, many of whom were unable to complete their studies or obtain their certificates.
According to a statement from Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Director General of Media and Publicity to Governor Yusuf, the payment was made directly to Near East University in Cyprus, covering all debts owed and ensuring the release of the students’ certificates.
“A total of two billion, two hundred and forty million naira has been paid to secure the certificates of the students who have waited for over five years,” the statement read.
The neglect had pushed several students into dire conditions, as they were locked out of classrooms, evicted from accommodations, and faced the threat of deportation.
“The trauma these students faced was unbearable. Some of them were harassed, ridiculed, and nearly deported. This intervention is not just financial, it is moral and humanitarian,” said Kabiru Ibrahim, father of one of the beneficiaries.
Among the 84 students are 28 medical students, in addition to others who studied nursing, dentistry, pharmacy, engineering, computer science, and biomedical sciences.
Although most of them had completed their studies, they were unable to receive their certificates due to the outstanding fees.
In addition to settling their financial obligations, Governor Yusuf announced a policy to provide immediate employment for the returning students.
“These young professionals are an asset to our state. We will not only welcome them home but also give them opportunities to contribute to our development,” said the governor.
The news triggered emotional celebrations across Kano State.
Some parents, who had long feared for their children’s futures, were overwhelmed with gratitude.
“This is the happiest day of my life. I can finally hold my son’s certificate and see him begin his career,” said Fatima Suleiman, mother of one of the medical graduates.
Human rights organisations and diaspora-based welfare groups also commended the move.
“This is a clear example of leadership with empathy. These are lives restored, careers revived, and reputations redeemed,” said Musa Lawan, coordinator of a Nigerian student welfare group in Europe.
