Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has resolved a long-standing humanitarian and educational crisis by fully settling the tuition and accommodation debts of 84 Kano students stranded in Northern Cyprus, bringing an end to years of neglect, hardship, and international embarrassment.
- Debt Fully Cleared:
All outstanding fees owed to Near East University in Cyprus have been paid, allowing students to finally receive their academic certificates after waiting over five years. - Financial Commitment:
The Kano State Government disbursed a total of ₦2.24 billion to settle the debts, covering tuition, accommodation, and related costs. - Background:
The students were originally sponsored under a foreign scholarship program initiated by former Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
However, funding was abruptly discontinued by the administration of former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, leaving students stranded and vulnerable. - Hardship Abroad:
The students endured severe challenges, including:- Being locked out of classrooms
- Evictions from their accommodations
- Legal threats from the host institution
- Ridicule and marginalization abroad due to their unpaid status
- Automatic Employment:
Governor Yusuf has directed that all 84 students be automatically absorbed into the Kano State Civil Service, enabling them to immediately begin their careers and contribute to the state. - Graduates’ Fields of Study:
Among the graduates are:- 28 medical students
- Nursing and paramedical students
- Dentistry and Pharmacy graduates
- Engineers and Biomedical/Computer Science professionals
Statement from the Governor’s Office:
Sunusi Bature, spokesperson to the governor, emphasized that this action was not only a rescue mission, but also a restoration of dignity and hope for young Kano citizens whose futures had been jeopardized by political decisions. “This action paves the way for the candidates to receive their certificates and begin to pursue their careers.”
Broader Context:
- The situation had drawn widespread condemnation from civil society, human rights advocates, and Nigerian diaspora groups, who criticized the politicization of education and abandonment of citizens abroad.
- Governor Yusuf’s intervention is being viewed as a strong message of accountability and compassion, signaling a renewed commitment to educational development in Kano State.
This decisive move not only repairs the past damage but reaffirms the value of human capital development as a cornerstone of good governance.
