ZAYODA Lagos Scholarship Initiative Empowers Youth in Bauchi: A Vision Beyond Dependency

ISOZI Bauchi, Nigeria, October 26, 2023

Mr. John Rica Emmanuel, Youth leader of ZAYODA Lagos

 — In a world where success often hinges on external support, a remarkable initiative is proving that independence and growth can be achieved without dependency. As the United Arab Emirates leads in tourism, Israel pioneers technology, and communities like Zaar Land strive for excellence independently, the message is clear: self-reliance is a powerful path to success.

On October 25, 2023, the ZAYODA Lagos Scholarship Program made a significant stride toward this vision. Three promising youths, beneficiaries of the program, were sent back to school at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) in Bauchi. These beneficiaries include Abednego Mark (Jalo) from Marti, now in his third year, Isaac Godiya from Num, now in his second year, and Lumi Paul from Marti, a fresh student. What sets them apart is that they were able to return to their studies after paying 100% of their fees, thanks to the ZAYODA Lagos Scholarship.

The program, with a mission to graduate at least 20 youths within a decade, provides vital support to students facing financial constraints due to the increasing cost of education. These three beneficiaries expressed their gratitude and pledged to serve as ambassadors of ZAYODA Lagos.

Operating with impressive Grade Points ranging from 3.5 to 8, these scholars are poised to make a significant impact in their communities.

Their parents also expressed their gratitude for this generous gesture, highlighting the importance of such initiatives in empowering the youth and uplifting communities.

But how did ZAYODA Lagos source the funds for such a noble cause? The scheme was initially planned based on school fees of 50,000 Naira for fresh graduates. However, as fees increased to 70,000 Naira for returning students, the program adapted with a robust investment plan.

The initiative began with the ZAYODA Day/Scholarship launch, where Zaarites were invited to join in this mission. Despite initial skepticism, contributions were made, and an investment of 1,000,000 Naira in 2022 yielded 300,000 Naira in returns after 12 months. This year, an additional 600,000 Naira was invested, bringing the total to 2 million Naira. As of now, there is a post-dated check of 2.6 million Naira set for the next year, with a goal of reaching 3 million Naira, ensuring sustainability.

This investment plan, designed to grow the capital, is expected to yield substantial returns, which will be reinvested in the scholarship program. By 2027, ZAYODA Lagos aims to have control over 10 million Naira, allowing for the graduation of even more youths and the expansion of the scholarship program.

Mr. John Rica Emmanuel, the youth leader of ZAYODA Lagos, shared his vision and determination, emphasizing the importance of strategic ideologies to empower the community's youth. He urged Zaarites to unite and overcome internal crises while developing their land and youths, emphasizing that neglecting empowerment and human capacity development would be a grave mistake.

In the spirit of thinking outside the box and following the examples of their forebears, the ZAYODA Lagos Scholarship Initiative is forging a path towards a brighter future, proving that self-reliance and community support can lead to success, no matter the obstacles.