Alausa hails Dangote Foundation’s plan to empower 4m students with IPO shares
By Uji A Iliyasu, Abuja
The Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, has commended the Aliko Dangote Foundation for its plan to acquire Initial Public Offers (IPO) shares in Dangote Refinery for up to four million eligible Nigerian tertiary institution students.
Under the proposed initiative, each eligible student aged 18 and above is expected to receive 10 IPO shares, providing an opportunity to participate in the capital market without having to purchase the shares personally.
Alausa described the initiative as an innovative approach to promoting financial literacy, youth empowerment and wealth creation among Nigerian students.
He said the programme would expose students to capital market operations, responsible investment and long-term financial planning, thereby equipping them with practical knowledge to make informed financial decisions.
The minister said the initiative aligns with the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly their emphasis on human capital development, enterprise and inclusive economic growth.
Alausa reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Education’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with private sector organisations to improve the quality, relevance, equity and efficiency of education in the country.
He added that collaboration between the government and private sector remained essential to equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in an evolving economy.
While appreciating the foundation’s contribution to youth development, the minister clarified that the ministry’s commendation was based on the initiative’s educational and developmental benefits and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any particular investment decision.
He also urged other corporate organisations to introduce similar initiatives that would support financial education, entrepreneurship and the economic empowerment of young Nigerians.
The foundation’s proposed intervention is expected to provide participating students with an opportunity to learn about share ownership and the potential role of capital market investments in long-term wealth creation.