As a Nigerian student navigating the rising costs of education, state-specific bursaries and scholarships can be your lifeline. In 2026, with economic pressures mounting, states like Lagos, Rivers, and Kaduna are ramping up investments in human capital through targeted financial aid. These programs—ranging from merit-based awards to needs-driven bursaries—cover tuition, stipends, and more for indigenes in tertiary institutions. Expect applications to open between January and June 2026, aligning with academic calendars.
This guide spotlights the top opportunities in these states, drawing from official announcements and past cycles. Whether you’re pursuing engineering in Lagos or medicine in Rivers, these awards prioritize STEM, health, and vocational fields to fuel local development. Let’s break down eligibility, benefits, and application steps to help you secure funding.
Why State Bursaries Matter in 2026
Nigeria’s states allocate billions annually to scholarships, with 2025 seeing over ₦10 billion disbursed nationwide. Bursaries ease financial burdens for low-income families, while merit scholarships reward excellence. In Lagos, the focus is urban innovation; Rivers emphasizes oil-linked STEM; Kaduna targets northern tech hubs. All require indigene verification, promoting equity. Pro tip: Early preparation with documents like LGA letters can boost your odds in competitive pools.
Lagos State: Urban Edge Through LSSB Awards
The Lagos State Scholarship Board (LSSB), established in 1968, champions indigenes in accredited institutions. For 2026, anticipate ₦375 million+ in funding, building on 2025’s 3,000 bursary recipients. Programs split into bursaries (needs-based) and scholarships (merit).
Eligibility:
- Indigene by paternity (LASSRA ID required).
- Undergraduate: CGPA ≥3.5/5.0; Postgraduate: 2:1 minimum.
- Full-time enrollment in NUC-approved schools.
Benefits: Bursaries up to ₦200,000/year (local); scholarships ₦300,000+ for high achievers, covering tuition and books.
Application Steps:
- Visit portal.lagosscholarship.org (opens ~April 2026).
- Upload: Admission letter, transcripts, O’Level results, passport photos.
- Merit test for scholarships; bursaries via screening.
- Deadline: Likely June 2026.
LSSB prioritizes fields like IT, engineering, and health sciences for Lagos’ mega-city ambitions.
Rivers State: Reviving RSSDA for Sustainable Growth
The Rivers State Sustainable Development Agency (RSSDA), active from 2007–2014, sponsored 5,000+ scholars abroad in STEM. Though paused, 2025 signals a revival under the Rivers State Scholarship Board (RSSB), with calls for local/overseas awards in medicine, engineering, and agriculture. Alumni networks like RSSDA Network advocate for 2026 expansions, potentially 1,000 slots.
Eligibility:
- Indigene or wards of 10-year resident taxpayers.
- Undergraduate: 5 O’Level credits; Postgraduate: 2:1 degree.
- Age 17–35; commitment to return and serve.
Benefits: Full tuition, ₦150,000–₦500,000 stipends, flights for overseas (UK, Canada, India). Vocational tracks include toolkits.
Application Steps:
- Monitor rssdanetwork.org or state education portal (opens ~February 2026).
- Submit: JAMB/UTME results, LGA letter, medical fitness.
- CBT screening + interview in Port Harcourt.
- Deadline: May 2026 est.
Rivers’ oil wealth drives focus on energy and environmental sciences, with bonds for post-study service.
Kaduna State: KDSG Loans and Merit Bursaries
The Kaduna State Scholarship and Loans Board (KADSSLB) empowers 4,000+ indigenes yearly, with 2025 doubling allowances. For 2026, expect needs/merit categories plus loans at low interest, targeting ICT for girls and STEM broadly.
Eligibility:
- Indigene with BVN/TIN verification.
- Undergraduate: SSCE credits; Postgraduate: First degree.
- Needs-based: Low-income proof; Merit: Top 10% CGPA.
Benefits: Bursaries ₦100,000–₦250,000/year; loans up to ₦500,000 repayable post-NYSC. Special: 50 ICT scholarships for girls.
Application Steps:
- Apply at kdsg-scholarship.com (opens January 2026).
- Provide: Admission offer, transcripts, bank details.
- BVN-linked screening; no fees.
- Deadline: April 2026.
Kaduna’s push for a “knowledge-based economy” favors tech and agriculture, with mentorship add-ons.
| State | Key Program | Funding Amount | Focus Fields | Portal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lagos | LSSB Bursary | ₦200k–300k | IT, Engineering | portal.lagosscholarship.org |
| Rivers | RSSB Awards | ₦150k–500k | Medicine, Oil Tech | rssdanetwork.org |
| Kaduna | KADSSLB | ₦100k–500k | ICT, Agriculture | kdsg-scholarship.com |
Application Checklist for All States
- [ ] Indigene letter from LGA.
- [ ] Valid ID (NIN, BVN, LASSRA for Lagos).
- [ ] Academic transcripts/results.
- [ ] Passport photos (4–6 copies).
- [ ] Bank account details.
- [ ] Sworn affidavit of indigeneity.
Scan documents clearly; falsification leads to bans.
Tips for 2026 Success
- Verify Indigene Status Early: Visit LGA offices now.
- Excel Academically: Aim for 3.5+ CGPA; join study groups.
- Avoid Scams: Official portals only—no payments required.
- Network: Follow @LSSBoard, @RSSDA, @KadScholarship on X for updates.
- Personalize Essays: Tie goals to state development (e.g., Lagos traffic tech).
Conclusion: Claim Your State’s Investment
State-specific bursaries for 2026 in Lagos, Rivers, and Kaduna aren’t handouts—they’re bridges to leadership in Nigeria’s evolving economy. With targeted support for indigenes, these programs ensure no talent is left behind. Start gathering docs today; applications launch soon. Which state’s award are you targeting? Share in the comments—let’s inspire each other!
