A non-governmental organisation, De Imperial Philanthropic Family, Nigeria, has announced a N50 million scholarship fund to reward the top scorers in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
The initiative was officially unveiled over the weekend in Lagos and is targeted at encouraging academic excellence and supporting brilliant students who may face financial challenges in their educational journey.
Speaking at the launch event, the foundation’s National President, High Chief Dr Sir Darlington Nwabunike (Ichie Ezenwakaibeya Ogbabalu Aku N’Anwu Ojoto), explained that the scholarship programme was established to recognise outstanding academic performance and reduce poverty through access to quality education.
“This initiative is our own way of investing in Nigeria’s future.
By supporting the brightest minds, we are building a better society.
The entire scholarship is self-sponsored, with contributions solely from members of our organisation.
We received no government or external support,” he stated.
According to Dr Nwabunike, the N50 million will be distributed across two main categories:
- N20 million – N500,000 each will be awarded to the highest-scoring candidate from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
- N30 million – N1,000,000 each will go to the 25 best-performing students from the Southeast geopolitical zone, reflecting the foundation’s commitment to uplifting excellence within the region.
The foundation noted that only candidates who score above 250 in the 2025 UTME will be eligible to apply.
Also speaking at the event, Chief Chikezie Okonkwo (Akunaetigbuilo na Nawfia), Chairman of the Education Committee, alongside Ezeh Chinonso (Ezesinachi Ihiala), a member of the selection team, assured the public that the application and selection process would be transparent, merit-based, and inclusive.
“This is not politics.
This is about real students with real talent. Every eligible candidate across Nigeria will have a fair shot.
We’ll ensure transparency at every stage,” said Chief Okonkwo.
When is now the form coming out
Pls how can someone apply for the scholarship