The Federal Government has commended the Aliko Dangote Foundation for its plan to provide Initial Public Offering (IPO) shares in Dangote Refinery to up to four million eligible Nigerian tertiary institution students aged 18 and above.
The Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, praised the initiative, describing it as an innovative approach to promoting financial literacy, youth empowerment and wealth creation among Nigerian students.
According to a press release issued by the Federal Ministry of Education on Monday, 19 October 2026, the initiative is expected to give each eligible student 10 IPO shares without requiring them to make an initial investment or purchase shares themselves.
Alausa said the programme would expose students to the capital market and help them understand responsible investing, long-term financial planning and wealth creation. He added that the initiative could prepare young Nigerians for greater economic participation and financial independence.
The minister also said the proposed programme aligns with the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI) and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He noted that partnerships between the education sector and private enterprises could support human capital development and inclusive economic growth.
Alausa reaffirmed the Federal Ministry of Education’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with private-sector organisations to improve the quality, relevance, equity and efficiency of education in Nigeria. He said such collaborations could help equip students with the skills required to succeed in a changing economy.
However, the minister clarified that the ministry’s commendation of the foundation’s plan should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any particular investment decision. He said the government recognised the initiative’s educational and developmental value.
Alausa also encouraged other corporate organisations to support NESRI and the Renewed Hope Agenda through initiatives that promote financial awareness, economic productivity and entrepreneurship among young Nigerians.
The announcement highlights the growing interest in connecting tertiary education with financial literacy and investment education. However, prospective beneficiaries will need further official information on eligibility, registration, share allocation and the implementation timeline before they can determine how to participate.
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