Applications Open for 2025 Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship for Nigerian Undergraduates

The Jim Ovia Foundation has opened applications for its 2025 annual scholarship programme, offering full financial support to outstanding Nigerian undergraduates across accredited tertiary institutions in the country.

The scheme, fully funded by Mr. Jim Ovia, founder of Zenith Bank, covers full tuition, accommodation, and an annual maintenance allowance of ₦150,000 for successful beneficiaries until the completion of their programmes.

Since its establishment in 2010, the Jim Ovia Scholarship has supported more than 1,500 students and entrepreneurs, with over ₦1 billion invested across multiple educational and entrepreneurial empowerment initiatives. The foundation says its vision is to build “a network of future leaders” equipped to compete globally and committed to improving their communities.

According to the foundation, the scholarship is awarded based on academic excellence, demonstrated leadership, and a strong commitment to societal development.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be Nigerian citizens

• Be enrolled or seeking enrolment in an accredited tertiary institution in Nigeria

• Demonstrate strong academic performance and leadership qualities

• Show a clear passion for contributing to societal development

Scholarship Benefits

Awardees will receive:

• Full tuition coverage

• Accommodation support

• An annual stipend of ₦150,000

The foundation stated that beneficiaries are expected to become leaders in fields such as health, technology, and finance—areas central to the foundation’s impact goals.

Required Documents

Applicants are required to submit several documents, including:

• Completed application form

• Government-issued ID

• Passport photograph

• JAMB certificate and UTME result

• University admission and acceptance letters

• Current academic calendar and stamped CGPA result

• Recommendation letter from the Head of Department

• School ID card

• O’Level certificate

The foundation warned that falsified documents will lead to automatic disqualification and blacklisting from future opportunities.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must create an account or log in to the foundation’s online portal, complete the application form, and upload all required documents. The foundation stressed that applications will not be reviewed until all documents are submitted, and no application fee is required.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted via email. Applicants are advised to monitor their email and add the foundation’s official addresses to their safe sender list.

The deadline for applications is November 28, 2025.