OPay Expands Scholarship Program to University of Calabar, Awards ₦6 Million to 20 Students
Calabar, Nigeria – OPay, one of Nigeria’s leading digital payment platforms, has added the University of Calabar (UNICAL) to its ₦1.2 billion scholarship program. The initiative, which spans 10 years, is designed to support bright but financially disadvantaged students across Nigerian universities and polytechnics.
Under the new agreement, 20 outstanding UNICAL students will each receive ₦300,000 per year to cover tuition and other academic expenses. This brings the total scholarship disbursement for the university to ₦6 million in 2025 alone.
The University of Calabar is the eighth institution to benefit from OPay’s scholarship scheme this year. The program aims to assist 400 students across 20 Nigerian higher institutions over the next decade.
University Leaders Praise OPay’s Initiative
At the signing ceremony held in Calabar, the Vice-Chancellor of UNICAL, Prof. Florence Obi, commended OPay for its support. She described the scholarship as a timely intervention for students struggling with rising school fees and living costs.
“Many of our students face financial difficulties, which sometimes force them to defer their studies or even drop out,” Prof. Obi said. “This scholarship will not only ease their burdens but also motivate them to perform better academically.”
She added that OPay’s contribution complements existing scholarship programs at the university, providing more opportunities for deserving students.
More Than Just Financial Aid OPay’s Long-Term Vision
While the primary goal is to reduce financial stress for students, OPay says the program is also an investment in Nigeria’s future workforce. The company plans to offer internship opportunities, mentorship, and even job placements to top beneficiaries.
IK Odiase, OPay’s Head of Partnerships, emphasized the company’s commitment to education.
“We understand the economic challenges students face today,” he said. “This scholarship is not just about money—it’s about empowering the next generation of leaders, innovators, and professionals.”
Itoro Udo, OPay’s CSR Manager, added that the company is exploring more ways to support Nigerian students beyond scholarships. These include digital skills training, campus engagement programs, and partnerships with other institutions.
List of Beneficiary Institutions (As of June 2025)
OPay’s scholarship program has already reached several universities and polytechnics across Nigeria. Some of the beneficiaries include:
University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) – ₦6 million awarded in March 2025
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) – Third institution to join the scheme
Kwara State Polytechnic – First polytechnic to benefit (₦6 million in April 2025)
Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) – Added in May 2025
Benue State University – Seventh beneficiary (₦6 million in May 2025)
University of Ibadan (UI) & Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) – Received scholarships in late 2024
Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria – ₦12 million awarded to 40 students in 2024
How the Scholarship Changed Lives—Students Share Their Stories
Some past beneficiaries have spoken about how OPay’s support transformed their academic journeys.
Tijani Rose, a 200-level Computer Science student at the University of Ibadan, said the scholarship allowed her to focus fully on her studies.
“Before this, I was always worried about how to pay my fees,” she said. “Now, I can concentrate on my grades and future career without financial stress.”
Another recipient, Toheeb Adeogun Adetayo, described the scholarship as a “life-changing opportunity.”
“I was shocked when I got the call that I had been selected,” he said. “This support means everything to me and my family.”
Why OPay’s Scholarship Program Matters
Nigeria’s education sector faces significant funding challenges, with many students struggling to afford tuition. Private-sector interventions like OPay’s scholarship help bridge this gap, ensuring that talented students can complete their education.
Beyond financial aid, the program encourages academic excellence and supports Nigeria’s goal of producing skilled professionals in technology, business, and other key sectors.
What’s Next for OPay’s Scholarship Scheme?
OPay plans to expand the program to more institutions in the coming months. The company is also exploring partnerships with state governments and other organizations to increase its impact.
With ₦1.2 billion committed over 10 years, OPay’s scholarship initiative is set to benefit thousands of Nigerian students, fostering a new generation of educated and empowered leaders.
