The Gift That Changed Everything: Mrs. Ngozi's Education Trust

When 14-year-old Chioma's mother was diagnosed with stage 3 cancer in 2017, her world stopped. But what Chioma didn’t know was that three years earlier, her mother had made a decision that would secure her entire future.

The Conversation That Started It All

Mrs. Ngozi Okafor, a pharmaceutical sales manager in Lagos, was at a family gathering in 2014 when a sobering thought hit her: “If something happens to me tomorrow, who will pay for Chioma’s education?”

Troubled, she confided in her friend, Mrs. Aduke. In response, Mrs. Aduke shared something life-changing:

“Ngozi, have you heard about Education Trusts? My husband and I set one up through FCMB Trustees for our children. You contribute funds regularly, they manage it professionally, and if anything happens to you, the money is protected and still pays your child’s school fees directly. No one can misuse it.”

Ngozi leaned in. “Tell me more.”

Two weeks later, she met with Mr. Chukwuma, a trust officer at FCMB Trustees, who explained exactly how the structure works.

How Education Trusts Work

• The Structure: Funds are contributed monthly, quarterly, or as a lump sum into a dedicated trust account for your child’s education. These funds are professionally invested in low-risk portfolios for steady growth.
• The Control: You decide the rules through a Trust Deed.
• The Protection: Even if something happens to you, the trust continues to function according to your instructions. The funds are separate from your estate, protected from creditors, and avoid probate delays.
• The Payment: FCMB Trustees pays school fees directly to institutions in Nigeria or abroad (UK, US, Canada, Ghana, and more). It covers tuition, accommodation, books, feeding, and other educational costs.
• The Flexibility: You may adjust contributions as your income improves and receive periodic reports. The trust can be used for local or international education.

“So I’m setting aside money that can only be used for Chioma’s education, it grows safely, and if anything happens to me, she’s covered?” Ngozi asked.

“Exactly. She remains covered to the amount settled in the trust,” Mr. Chukwuma confirmed.

Ngozi started with ₦500,000 and committed ₦150,000 monthly. The Trust Deed instructed that funds be used for Chioma’s secondary and university education, and any remaining balance be released to her at graduation or age 25.

When Everything Changed

Three years later, Ngozi was diagnosed with cancer. The family struggled financially as medical bills piled up, and she had to stop working.

But Chioma’s education remained completely secure.

When her SS2 fees—₦400,000 at Jersey Secondary School—became due, FCMB Trustees paid directly to the school without delays. No family pressure. No embarrassment.

When Chioma gained admission to study Pharmacy at the University of Ibadan, the trust paid her expenses. Later, when she secured a master’s placement at the University of Manchester, the trust balance supported part of her tuition in pounds, easing her financial burden.

Throughout her mother’s illness and eventual passing in 2023, Chioma never had to worry about school fees. She grieved, but without financial anxiety.

“My mother gave me the greatest gift,” Chioma shared. “Even when she couldn’t be there, I knew my education was secured. I could focus on being there for her and on my studies.”

Why FCMB Trustees Made the Difference

When Chioma graduated with first-class honours and became a licensed pharmacist, she recognised what made her mother’s decision so powerful:

✓ Professional Management – steady growth through expert investment
✓ Direct School Payments – zero diversion of funds
✓ International Capability – seamless forex and international transfers
✓ No Probate Delays – trust operations continued uninterrupted
✓ Transparent Reporting – periodic statements ensured clarity
✓ Trusted Partnership – FCMB Trustees honoured her mother’s wishes

The Reality of Education Costs

Education in Nigeria is costly. A child’s journey from primary school to university could cost ₦20 million or more, excluding international studies.

But the truth is this: you don’t need ₦20 million today.
What matters is starting early.

With an Education Trust:

• You contribute gradually
• Funds grow through professional investment
• Your child remains protected against life’s uncertainties
• Their education is guaranteed—whether you’re there or not

Five Questions Every Parent Should Ask

1. What happens to my child’s school fees if I die tomorrow?

2. Can I guarantee my child will finish university, no matter what?

3. How do I ensure education funds are not diverted?

4. What if my child gets an opportunity to study abroad?

5. Am I building financial security or just spending as I go?

FCMB Trustees’ Education Trust answers all of these with one powerful word:

SECURITY.

Ngozi began with ₦500,000 and ₦150,000 monthly. Three years later, that simple decision became her daughter’s lifeline.

What decision will you make today?

Take the First Step to Secure Your Child’s Educational Future

Start your Education Trust with FCMB Trustees Limited.

Get Started

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