Dr Maruf Alausa Announce 5 Years Bilateral Education Scholarship Program.

Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa 
Minister of Education 

"Every course previously available through overseas scholarships is now accessible and often better enhanced  within Nigerian institutions." Alausa.

.... "We stand by the promises made to our students abroad."

In a move to reposition the education sector positively, Nigeria's Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa has announced a five-year moratorium on the Bilateral Education Scholarship Program to promote student growth and well-being.

This is in a move to prioritize the welfare of Nigerian citizens and the future of education.

Speaking after an extensive review of academic programs abroad, Dr. Alausa stated that every course previously available through overseas scholarships is now accessible and often better enhanced  within Nigerian institutions.

According to him, “We have carefully reviewed all courses our citizens pursue abroad,” he said. “Every single course is now available here at home.”

He further clarified the decision by emphasizing that while the moratorium encourages local education, it does not prevent parents from privately sponsoring their children to study overseas.

“We must remain equitable to every citizen,” he said. “We are currently spending more to send students abroad covering tickets, stipends, and other expenses for an education they can now access better here.”

However, the Federal Government welcomes BEA (Bilateral Education Agreement) partners offering scholarships to Nigerians, provided such programs are fully funded by the host country, covering tuition, accommodation, travel, living costs, healthcare, and a monthly allowance of at least $500 at no cost to the Nigerian government.

Dr. Alausa reassured Nigerians that the moratorium does not affect other vital scholarship programs which includes the Nigerian Scholarship for students in public universities and polytechnics, the Education Bursary Awards for students pursuing Education degrees, and the Presidential NYSC Ex-Corps Scholarship all of which will continue uninterrupted.

He also highlighted the strengthened Nigerian Student Loan Program, which offers robust financial support for students pursuing higher education locally.

This is as he also affirmed that existing beneficiaries of the Bilateral Education Scholarship Program will continue to receive full government support until they complete their studies and return home.

“We stand by the promises made to our students abroad,” he emphasized. 

Dr Alausa concluded by assuring citizens that the Federal Government’s renewed focus will be on strengthening local scholarships and expanding opportunities for all Nigerian students ensuring no dream is delayed or denied.