Kebbi Students Preparing for Saudi Arabia Trip: Deputy Governor's Guidance

By Umar Faruk, Birnin Kebbi

The Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, has urged 70 students preparing to study in Saudi Arabian universities to be good ambassadors of the state and Nigeria. Representing Governor Nasir Idris, the Deputy Governor gave the charge at the commencement of a screening exercise and capacity-building workshop in Birnin Kebbi on Tuesday. The program, organized by the State Ministry for Religious Affairs, aims to facilitate the students' university admission under the Saudi Arabian scholarship scheme.

"This is a rare opportunity, make the best use of it, when you get there, conduct yourselves in a manner that brings pride to Kebbi State and the entire nation," Senator Tafida advised. He prayed for the students' success and urged them to adhere strictly to the program's guidelines. The Deputy Governor commended the Saudi Government for collaborating with Kebbi State and appreciated the facilitators from Riyadh for their commitment.

Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Yakubu Bala Tafida, delivered a goodwill message to the students, wishing them success and safe travel. "We pray for your safe journey and excellence in academic pursuits," he said. The Head of the Saudi delegation, Dr. AbdulRahman Essa'udi, with over 11 years of experience facilitating students' admission into Saudi universities, affirmed his readiness to guide Kebbi students through the application process.

"Many students lack knowledge of the admission procedures; with the support of the Kebbi State Government, I am here to help them understand and complete the necessary formalities," Dr. Essa'udi explained. Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Affairs, Engr. Imran Ibn Usman, announced that the Kebbi State Government would cover the students' transportation costs to Saudi Arabia, while the Saudi Government would handle their education and welfare.

The event was attended by prominent officials, including former Head of Service Alhaji Safiyanu Garba-Bena, Commissioner for Religious Affairs Arc. Sani Aliyu, and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, among others. With this development, the students are set to embark on their academic journey, representing Kebbi State and Nigeria in Saudi Arabia.