Two hundred students from Niger East Senatorial District departed from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on Monday to pursue undergraduate studies in India and China under the Senator Mohammed Sani Musa International Undergraduate Scholarship Scheme.

The initiative, described by parents and community leaders as a significant investment in the district’s future, is reportedly the largest overseas scholarship program facilitated by an elected representative from Niger East.

Senator Musa, represented at the send-off by his wife, Hajia Saadatu Sani Musa, said the program was designed to bridge educational gaps and foster global exposure for the students, with the aim of producing professionals who would return to contribute to Niger State and Nigeria.

“This is not just about sending young people abroad; it is about preparing an army of thinkers, builders, and innovators who will return with the skills to transform Niger East and Nigeria,” Hajia Saadatu said.

Addressing the students, Hajia Saadatu urged them to maintain discipline, focus on their studies, and embrace their opportunity as a mission rather than a privilege.

“Opportunity without discipline is wasted, and talent without hard work is buried treasure. You are going as ambassadors of Niger East, nurtured in the values of respect, integrity, and community spirit. Remember: our tomorrow must be better than today, and that begins with the education of our children,” she said. She also encouraged students to avoid distractions and peer pressure, noting that success would be measured by the impact they make upon their return.

Parents at the airport described the scholarship as transformative. Malam Abdullahi, father of one of the beneficiaries, said, “For us, this is more than just a scholarship; it is a ladder out of poverty and a ticket to a brighter future. Our children now have a chance we could only dream of.”

Traditional and religious leaders in attendance also commended Senator Musa for providing tangible opportunities for youth development.

India and China were selected as destinations for their universities’ strong reputations in medicine, engineering, technology, and management sciences. The program is expected to provide students with academic training, cross-cultural exposure, and leadership preparation for when they return to Nigeria.

Senator Musa has pledged to sustain and expand the scholarship scheme in subsequent years, emphasising education as a central component of his legislative and philanthropic agenda.

As the students proceeded through the departure hall, Hajia Saadatu concluded the send-off with a prayer for their safety and success.

“Go forth, shine, and may Almighty Allah guide your steps, protect you, and crown your efforts with resounding success. Safe journey, our pride. Your story of success has just begun,” she said.

For Niger East, the departure of these students marks a significant step in human capital development, providing a pathway for future professional and community leadership.