Leadnaija
In a strategic shift aimed at bolstering local educational institutions, the Federal Government of Nigeria has officially discontinued the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship Programme. This move, announced by the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, is part of broader efforts to reallocate resources to domestic education priorities.
The Minister made the announcement in a press statement issued by Mrs. Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening Nigerian universities and polytechnics. According to Dr. Alausa, Nigerians now have access to high-quality education within the country that was once only available abroad.
“The courses Nigerians travel abroad to study are now offered in our own institutions, often at higher standards,” Dr. Alausa stated. “It is no longer justifiable to use public funds for overseas studies when local alternatives exist.”
Dr. Alausa emphasized that funds previously allocated to overseas scholarships—which included airfare, tuition, living expenses, and stipends—will now be redirected to improve domestic tertiary institutions. He assured the public that current beneficiaries of the BEA Program will continue to receive government support until they complete their studies.
The Minister clarified, however, that the government remains open to foreign scholarship offers for Nigerian students, provided these programs cover full expenses, including tuition, accommodation, healthcare, and a monthly allowance of at least $500 with no financial obligation from the Nigerian government.
Dr. Alausa also reassured stakeholders that other domestic scholarship programs would continue unaffected. These include:
The Nigerian Scholarship Awards for students in public universities and polytechnics.
The Federal Government Bursary for education students.
The Presidential Scholarship for NYSC Ex-Corps Members.
Furthermore, the government remains dedicated to expanding the Nigerian Student Loan Programme, which offers interest-free loans for students pursuing higher education within the country.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Alausa reaffirmed the Ministry’s focus on building a stronger, self-reliant education system that promotes equity, access, and sustainability for all Nigerians.
“This is not the end, but a new beginning. Our focus is on ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind,” he said.
