US Restates Commitment with Nigeria on Education

By: Mnena Iyorkegh, Abuja

The US Government has restated its commitment to strengthen continued partnership with Nigeria in quality education.
The US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, stated this at US Education  23rd Annual College Fair 2024, in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

The College Fair provides an opportunity to obtain current information on studying in the United States and to discuss career possibilities.

Mr Mills also stressed the need for quality education which is critical for the economic growth of a nation.
“Access to quality education is essential for equitable economic growth, improving health indicators, advancing gender equality, and promoting socioeconomic progress. A prosperous and stable Nigeria benefits both Nigeria and the United States, and it all starts with education”, he said.

According to the US Ambassador, the scholarships and assistance provided by American universities will help more Nigerian students come to the United States.

“Studying in the United States also creates new friendships that will last a lifetime.  You will experience the tapestry of American culture and hopefully get to understand us as Americans better.  And you will share your vibrant culture with your new American friends whose horizons will broaden as a result. Your presence here represents the strong people-to-people ties between the United States and Nigeria.  It is wonderful to see the flourishing interest from Nigerians considering studying in the United States and from the representatives of U.S. colleges and universities who travel to Nigeria, to meet with prospective students”. He said 

The Envoy added that more Nigerians study in the United States than from any other African country, in which 73 students have been supported through the Opportunity Funds Programme.

“According to the most recent data, more than 17,600 Nigerian students studied at over 970 institutions in all 50 states and the District of Columbia last year. Our annual College Fairs have significantly increased the number of excellent applicants to U.S. institutions and boosted financial aid and scholarship opportunities for Nigerian students. Last year, over $30 million (47.7 billion naira) in financial aid, scholarships, and assistantships were awarded to students advised by EducationUSA Nigeria, with 73 students supported through the Opportunity Funds Program in Abuja and Lagos”. 

About Fifty educational institutions from the United States participated in the fair. Alongside different secondary schools in Abuja the Federal Capital Territory.

Dominica Nwabufo