Alausa Commends Dangote Foundation’s Plan to Give IPO Shares to Four Million Nigerian Students
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, has commended the Aliko Dangote Foundation for its plan to acquire Initial Public Offering (IPO) shares in Dangote Refinery for up to four million eligible Nigerian tertiary institution students.
The initiative is aimed at promoting financial literacy, youth empowerment and wealth creation among young Nigerians.
According to a press release issued by the Federal Ministry of Education on Monday, October 19, 2026, each eligible student aged 18 and above is expected to receive 10 IPO shares without having to make an initial investment or purchase the shares personally.
Alausa described the initiative as an innovative approach to introducing students to the capital market while equipping them with practical knowledge of responsible investing and long-term financial planning.
He noted that the programme would help prepare young Nigerians for greater economic participation and financial independence.
The minister also said the initiative aligns with the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda by linking education with enterprise, human capital development and inclusive economic growth.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with private sector organisations to improve the quality, relevance, equity and efficiency of education in Nigeria.
According to him, such collaborations are essential to equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to thrive in a changing economy.
While appreciating Aliko Dangote and his foundation for their contribution to youth development, Alausa clarified that the ministry’s commendation was based on the educational and developmental benefits of the initiative and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any particular investment decision.
He urged other corporate organisations to emulate the foundation by supporting initiatives that promote financial awareness, economic productivity and entrepreneurship among young Nigerians.
