The First Lady of Kebbi State, Zainab Nasir Idris, has distributed free registration forms for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), organised by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), to over 2,700 students under the auspices of the Kauran Gwandu Advocacy Forum (KAGAF).

The beneficiaries, mainly less privileged students, orphans, and persons with disabilities were drawn from the 21 local government areas of the state and are preparing to sit for the JAMB examination for admission into tertiary institutions.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held on Tuesday at Safar Conference Hall, Birnin Kebbi, the First Lady said the initiative was aimed at expanding access to higher education for indigent students.

“This programme was initiated by my husband, Governor Nasir Idris, four years ago to ensure that children from poor backgrounds are not denied the opportunity to pursue higher education because of financial challenges,” she said.

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Zainab stressed that the present administration places premium importance on education and human capital development.

“Education remains a top priority of this administration because it is the foundation for sustainable development and a better future for our state,” she added.

The First Lady, who was represented by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Halima Bande, advised the beneficiaries to take their studies seriously in order to succeed.

“Having a JAMB form does not automatically guarantee admission. You must work hard, pass your WAEC and other relevant examinations, and meet the required qualifications,” she cautioned.

She urged organizers of the programme to ensure that students are properly guided on correct subject combinations relevant to their chosen courses.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of Kauran Gwandu Advocacy Forum (KAGAF), Mansur Gwandu, said the initiative was part of the forum’s ongoing commitment to improving educational standards in Kebbi State.

“This is the fourth edition of the programme, and our aim is to support students, especially the less privileged, to achieve their academic dreams,” he said.

Gwandu also advised beneficiaries to ensure accuracy when filling their JAMB forms, particularly in selecting appropriate subject combinations.

He commended the First Lady and Governor Nasir Idris for their continued support, noting that their encouragement has enabled the forum to achieve its objectives.

“We sincerely appreciate the First Lady and His Excellency, Governor Nasir Idris, for their inspiration and unwavering support toward the success of this programme,” he stated.

During the event, several individuals made donations to support the purchase of additional JAMB forms.