…bestowed with the prestigious 2024 Voice of Africa, Canada Torchbearer Award
By Christiana Ekpa
Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State led a delegation of Niger State government officials to the All Saints University Admin Office in Toronto, to establish a partnership that will strengthen higher education in the state.
The University of Toronto, a globally recognized research-intensive university, has united top scholars across various disciplines to address global challenges. Its dedication to equity, diversity, and inclusion encourages an environment where every individual can thrive. Among its many achievements, the university ranks among the top 50 globally in 46 subject categories and stands out in sustainability initiatives. With over 680,000 alumni across 190 countries and partnerships with more than 1,200 institutions worldwide.
During this visit, a groundbreaking agreement was signed, marking a significant investment in future medical professionals. A one-million-dollar scholarship bond was established, with a matching contribution from the University of Toronto, creating a two-million-dollar fund to support 100 students pursuing medical degrees and professional courses.
This partnership opens doors for aspiring medical professionals and solidifies the ongoing collaboration between institutions dedicated to advancing knowledge and opportunity.
In related development, the Governor of Niger State, Farmer Umaru Bago was bestowed with the prestigious 2024 Voice of Africa (VOA) Canada Torchbearer Award for his exceptional leadership and dedication towards Agriculture, food security, and Infrastructural development in Nigeria.
VOA is a media, public relations, and management consulting firm based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada which promotes African content initiatives and helps facilitate beneficial collaboration between African and Canadian public/private organizations.
VOA, Canada is the Parent company of VOA Radio Canada and the Torchbearers Award that recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations making an impact within Black Communities worldwide.
The award is in recognition of Farmer Governor Bago’s contributions towards agricultural development, food security, good governance, youth employment, and massive rural infrastructural projects in Niger State.
The Governor during his remarks appreciated the award, pledges to work with more national and international institutions especially the Canadian business community to promote food security in Niger state.












