Former Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has pledged to cover the remaining relocation expenses of a first-class Mathematics graduate of the University of Ilorin, Adisa Blessing Oluwafikayo, who recently secured a fully funded Master’s scholarship at the University of Calabria in Italy.
Saraki announced the intervention on Saturday via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, saying he came across the student’s online appeal for financial assistance to enable her travel.
Oluwafikayo, who graduated with a CGPA of 4.76 out of 5.0, had earlier posted a public request for support, stating that although she had secured a fully funded scholarship, she still required assistance with relocation costs.
In response, Saraki praised her academic achievement, describing it as “extraordinary” and a reflection of the potential of young Nigerians.
“To graduate with a First Class in Mathematics from UNILORIN and then earn a fully funded Master’s admission in Italy is an extraordinary achievement,” he wrote. “No young person who has worked this hard should have such an opportunity limited by the cost of getting there.”
He added that his office would reach out to her to finalise arrangements for the support.
The gesture has since generated widespread reactions on social media, with users commending the former Senate President for what many described as an example of youth-focused and education-driven leadership.
Several commenters praised the intervention as timely, while others highlighted the importance of supporting high-achieving students seeking international academic opportunities.
Oluwafikayo’s achievement had previously drawn attention online after she shared her admission details and appealed for help to cover travel and settlement costs not included in her fully funded scholarship package.
Saraki, a former governor of Kwara State, has in previous years supported educational initiatives and outstanding students from the University of Ilorin and other institutions.
