The Katsina State Government has disbursed over three hundred and twenty-eight million naira as part of the first phase of its 2026 Medical Students’ Allowance Scheme aimed at supporting medical students studying in accredited universities within and outside Nigeria.

The General Manager of the Katsina State Hospital Services Management Board, Dr. Muhammad Nazir Shehu, disclosed this in a statement signed by the board’s Secretary, Abu Usman.

According to the statement, a total of 650 medical students across 33 accredited universities are benefiting from the initiative, which received the approval of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda.

Dr. Shehu explained that the programme reflects the state government’s commitment to strengthening human capital development in the healthcare sector and addressing the growing need for qualified medical professionals.

He stated that the allowance scheme was introduced to reduce the financial burden faced by medical students during their academic and professional training.

Describing the initiative as a strategic investment, Shehu noted that the government aims to build a competent, resilient, and service-oriented healthcare workforce capable of meeting the evolving health challenges facing Katsina State and Nigeria at large.

He further assured that the funds would be managed transparently to ensure that all beneficiaries receive the intended support.

According to him, the scholarship and allowance programme forms part of the broader healthcare development agenda of the Radda administration, which seeks to encourage more students to pursue careers in medicine and other health-related disciplines.

Dr. Shehu also urged beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunity by remaining focused on academic excellence, professionalism, and ethical conduct throughout their studies.

He disclosed that additional phases of the allowance scheme would be introduced in the future to further cushion the economic challenges confronting students in medical schools.

Stakeholders say the initiative could help improve healthcare manpower development in Katsina State while encouraging greater access to medical education for students from the state.