Jigawa Government Spends N4 Billion to Relocate 195 Students from War-Torn Sudan to India and Cyprus
The Jigawa State government has successfully evacuated 195 students from war-torn Sudan, relocating them to universities in India and Cyprus, with a reported expenditure of N4 billion. Six out of ten students studying in India have graduated, including four who achieved first-class honors in Nursing.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The Jigawa State government has successfully evacuated 195 students from the conflict-ridden Sudan, relocating them to universities in India and Cyprus, with many now graduating with impressive academic achievements.
During a reception for six of the ten students studying in India, Saidu Magaji, the Executive Secretary of the Jigawa State Scholarship Board, announced that six students have graduated, with four earning first-class honors in Bachelor of Nursing Science. The proactive response of the Jigawa government during the Sudan crisis has been commended as vital to the students’ education and well-being.
“The government acted swiftly during the war in Sudan to evacuate our students,” Magaji stated. “Upon their return to Nigeria, we ensured a smooth transition by chartering an aircraft to bring them directly to Jigawa Airport, as many were still coping with the trauma of their experiences.”
The government’s efforts included securing admissions for 185 students at Near East University in Cyprus, with N4.5 million allocated for residence permits, health insurance, and living allowances. Magaji further revealed that the state has approved a total of N4 billion for the students' financial needs, which covers tuition fees and living expenses.
Of the ten students relocated to Integral University in India, four remain, studying Pharmacy Sciences and Civil Engineering. The six returning students celebrated their success, with Aisha Muhammad, a first-class Nursing graduate, expressing her gratitude: “After the trauma of Sudan, we have now completed our studies successfully, and we are ready to serve my state like never before.”
Abdullahi Isa, who graduated with a degree in Industrial Chemistry, echoed Muhammad's sentiments, praising the supportive environment in India. “Our studies went smoothly without any attacks or hostility, and we are grateful for the timely intervention of the Jigawa State government, which made our education possible,” he said.
The students have signed bonds committing to serve in Jigawa for a specified period, reinforcing the state’s investment in its youth and their future contributions to the community.
