Sterling Bank Plc has announced a significant expansion of its “Beyond Education” initiative, offering paid internships and guaranteed job opportunities to select recipients of its recently unveiled N2 billion scholarship fund for 600 young Nigerians.
The bank revealed the development in a statement on Saturday, describing the move as a strategic step to transform the initial scholarship program into a comprehensive talent development pipeline.
According to Sterling Bank, the initiative aims to equip graduates with practical experience across key sectors, including banking, technology, customer service, and risk management.
“Nigeria’s greatest asset is its people, and our responsibility is to equip them to lead, innovate, and transform,” said Abubakar Suleiman, Chief Executive Officer of Sterling Bank. “With this initiative, we have created a launchpad for the next generation of builders and problem solvers. This is the work that moves a nation forward. This is the path we have deliberately chosen as an institution.”
Beyond the “Beyond Education” program, Suleiman highlighted other ways Sterling Bank is committed to real-world impact. In April, the bank became the first Nigerian financial institution to abolish transfer fees for individual customers, generating over N600 million in collective savings within three months. The bank’s “AlwaysOn” initiative also provides eligible customers with instant access to a N1 million cash advance, offering a financial safety net.
“Sterling Bank stands as a leading financial institution in Nigeria, driven by a mission that extends beyond mere profitability. Operating at the intersection of finance and national progress, the bank continues to set a benchmark for purposeful leadership,” Suleiman said.
Sterling Bank has called on other forward-thinking companies across various industries to partner in the initiative by offering internships, jobs, or mentorship opportunities to scholarship beneficiaries. Suleiman described this as a unique chance for employers to help shape a more inclusive and productive future for Nigeria.
Interns under the expanded program will receive competitive stipends, structured formal training, and the opportunity to work closely with senior leaders across the organization.
Since adopting its “HEART” strategy—focused on Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation—Sterling Bank has played an active role in national development, positively impacting over 30 million Nigerians. The bank’s contributions span initiatives such as deploying smart health booths in remote areas, upgrading digital infrastructure in public schools, supporting agriculture, implementing rural energy solutions, and investing in electric mobility infrastructure.
Launched on Democracy Day, the “Beyond Education” campaign continues to gain momentum nationwide. Scholarship nominees are being selected from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory through a transparent process led by community members and Sterling Bank customers.
