The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of Nigerian students studying abroad under the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship Programme, pledging to meet all financial responsibilities despite recent economic challenges.
In a statement issued on Thursday via the Honourable Minister of Education’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the Ministry emphasised that the government remains fully dedicated to sustaining the programme and ensuring that Nigerian scholars receive their due entitlements without further delay.
The BEA scheme, which enables Nigerians to pursue higher education in countries like China, Russia, Hungary, Algeria, Morocco, Egypt, and Serbia, is based on bilateral partnerships. These host nations provide free tuition, accommodation, and stipends, while the Nigerian government supplements this with grants, monthly support, and return airfare.
According to the Ministry, all supplementary allowances owed to BEA students have been cleared up to December 2024. This development was described as a direct result of the Minister’s ongoing efforts to prioritise the academic welfare of Nigerian citizens abroad.
The Ministry also acknowledged that recent exchange rate fluctuations had led to shortfalls in student remittances. It noted that the Honourable Minister had already submitted formal requests for additional funds to cover these discrepancies and ensure full payment of the outstanding amounts.
To further reinforce the government’s commitment, the Ministry confirmed that provisions for the BEA programme had been captured under the 2025 Capital Budget. It assured stakeholders that once the implementation phase begins, disbursements will resume promptly.
“This Ministry assures all stakeholders, particularly Nigerian scholars and their families, of its unwavering dedication to the success of the BEA,” the statement said. “We are actively working to resolve all pending issues and to ensure continued support for our students overseas.”
The BEA programme continues to serve as a diplomatic and educational bridge between Nigeria and its international partners. Each year, it provides exceptional Nigerian students with the opportunity to gain access to globally recognised institutions and training.
Mrs. Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry, used the platform to thank students and their families for their patience and understanding, while also stressing that the Ministry is committed to ensuring that disbursements become more timely and transparent.
As the 2025 fiscal year unfolds, Nigerian students under the BEA programme remain hopeful that the Ministry’s renewed assurances will translate into smooth and uninterrupted academic journeys abroad.
