Amid rising concerns over the financial struggles faced by Nigerian students studying abroad, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has initiated an investigation into the issue. This decision follows reports indicating that many students have not received their stipends for up to 11 months, forcing them to take on jobs, borrow money, and even sell personal belongings to cover basic expenses.
During a plenary session on Tuesday, the Senate highlighted the urgent need for accountability regarding the delays in stipend disbursements. The motion, presented by Salihu Mustapha of Kwara Central Senatorial District, emphasized the importance of scholarships in promoting specialized education through international partnerships. Mustapha stressed that the delay in payments has led to significant hardships for Nigerian students in countries such as Algeria, China, Morocco, Russia, and the United Kingdom.
Mustapha stated, “The federal government’s failure to meet its financial commitments under these international agreements for over 10 months will jeopardize the welfare and academic progress of the affected students. This failure not only undermines our national reputation but also poses significant diplomatic concerns and risks, pushing our students towards unlawful activities to sustain their livelihood abroad.”
The Senate’s resolution includes summoning Tahir Mamman, the Minister of Education, and officials from the Federal Scholarship Board (FSB) to explain the payment delays. They are expected to provide a detailed report on the status of Nigerian students under international scholarship programs and an analysis of unpaid entitlements.
Senate President Akpabio has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive investigation to resolve the issue. Relevant committees have also been directed to probe the matter.
Nigeria maintains bilateral education agreements with several countries, covering tuition and accommodation for Nigerian students, with Nigeria responsible for annual allowances for health insurance, medical expenses, and monthly stipends. Despite these arrangements, the FSB has consistently failed to meet its financial obligations, often delaying payments for months. The latest lapse, lasting 12 months, has severely impacted students, many from low-income backgrounds, who have resorted to working long hours in low-paying jobs, squatting with foreign nationals, begging for alms, facing eviction, and rationing food.
In 2023, Nigeria had 1,532 active Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) beneficiaries, with a budget of N6.8 billion for 2024 at an exchange rate of N800/USD 1. Government sources cite a lack of funds as the primary reason for the unpaid stipends, with embassies in destination countries running out of options. The education ministry is reportedly addressing the issue with the finance ministry, and the House of Representatives is also considering a probe.
This ongoing situation has drawn negative media coverage and national embarrassment, highlighting systemic failures despite previous Senate interventions. The Senate’s investigation aims to address these failures and ensure that Nigerian students abroad receive the financial support they need to continue their education without undue hardship.