RismadarVoice Reporters
November 14, 2026
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reiterated plans to increase annual bursary payments for eligible students from ₦50,000 to ₦200,000, with those studying professional courses expected to receive ₦250,000.
The governor restated the proposal during the 31st and 32nd combined convocation ceremonies of the University of Uyo, where 22,961 students graduated from the 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 academic sessions.
Represented by his deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, Eno said the proposed increase was intended to reduce the financial challenges facing students and improve access to tertiary education.
Under the proposed arrangement, students pursuing general courses would receive ₦200,000 annually, while those studying medicine, law and engineering would receive ₦250,000.
The governor had earlier indicated that implementation of the higher bursary rates would depend on his securing a second term in office following the 2027 governorship election.
Eno also commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its interventions in the education sector.
He stated that approximately ₦5.6 billion had been disbursed to 73,532 students across tertiary institutions in Akwa Ibom State through Federal Government student support initiatives.
The figures were presented by the governor and have not been independently reconciled with programme-level disbursement records.
Highlighting his administration’s education agenda, Eno cited the planned transformation of the College of Education, Afaha Nsit, into a University of Education.
He also pledged continued support for infrastructure development at the University of Uyo, including a perimeter fence and a five-kilometre internal road.
According to him, although the institution is federally owned, its development remains important to Akwa Ibom because many of its students are residents and indigenes of the state.
The governor congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to explore entrepreneurship, innovation and other opportunities beyond conventional employment.
Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Christopher Nyong Ekong, outlined measures introduced to improve academic administration, infrastructure and institutional performance.
Ekong, who assumed office in June 2026, said his administration was focused on restoring academic excellence, improving confidence and strengthening the university’s reputation.
Of the 22,961 graduands, 214 earned First Class Honours.
The ceremony also featured the recognition of distinguished Nigerians for their contributions to national development.
University officials expressed appreciation for government support and called for sustained investment in teaching, research and infrastructure.
