The Katsina State Ministry of Information and Culture has strongly refuted claims that the state government spent N24 billion on foreign scholarships for 41 medical students studying MBBS in Egypt.
In an official statement, the ministry clarified that the actual amount spent was ₦2.4 billion.
Dr. Bala Salisu Zango, Commissioner for Information and Culture, described the report as baseless and misleading. He explained that the funds were allocated for a five-year program covering tuition, accommodation, books, upkeep allowances, residence permits, and airfare for the students.
“This initiative, under the leadership of Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, is a critical step toward addressing the shortage of medical professionals in the state and strengthening the healthcare system,” Dr. Zango stated.
He also noted that beneficiaries were selected through a rigorous process, ensuring representation from all 34 local government areas of the state.
The ministry demanded that the platform should retract the report immediately, warning that legal measures will be pursued if the correction is not issued. “Misinformation damages public trust and disrupts meaningful discourse. Responsible reporting is essential,” the ministry added in its statement.