In a strategic move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s education sector, the Federal Government has announced a five-year suspension of the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship Programme.
The decision, revealed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, is intended to prioritize student development and promote academic excellence within the country.
Dr. Alausa, speaking in Abuja, explained that the moratorium follows a comprehensive review of academic programs available overseas.
He affirmed that all courses Nigerian students typically pursue abroad are now offered—and in many cases, better enhanced—within Nigerian universities and institutions.
“We have carefully reviewed all the courses our citizens pursue abroad. Every single course is now available here at home,” the minister stated.
He clarified that while the government will no longer sponsor students abroad under the BEA scheme for the next five years, families are still free to privately fund their children’s international education.
In a statement released by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, Dr. Alausa highlighted the economic burden of sending students overseas, citing expenses such as airfare, stipends, and tuition for courses that can be accessed locally.
“Education should be equitable and sustainable. We are currently spending significantly more to send students abroad, even when better options are available here,” he said.
However, the Minister added that Nigeria remains open to scholarship partnerships.
BEA partner countries are welcome to continue offering scholarships to Nigerian students, provided they fully fund the programs—including tuition, accommodation, travel, health insurance, and a monthly stipend of no less than $500—without financial input from the Nigerian government.
The minister reassured the public that the moratorium will not affect other key scholarship programs, such as:
The Nigerian Scholarship for students in public universities and polytechnics
The Education Bursary Awards for students studying Education
The Presidential NYSC Ex-Corps Member Scholarship
He also promised a revitalization of the Nigerian Student Loan Program to offer more robust support to undergraduates.
Dr. Alausa concluded by assuring that students currently benefiting from the BEA scholarship will continue to receive full government support until the completion of their studies and their return to Nigeria.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.