May 07, (THEWILL) – The Federal Government has formally discontinued the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship Programme as part of efforts to refocus Nigeria’s educational investment on domestic institutions.
Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, made the announcement in Abuja, describing the move as a strategic policy shift aimed at promoting equity, access, and sustainability in the country’s education system.
A statement signed on Wednesday by the Director of Press and Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, quoted the Minister as saying the decision followed a comprehensive policy review to align national priorities with current realities.
Alausa said, “Every course Nigerians travel abroad to study through the BEA is now available—and in many cases, of better quality—in our universities and polytechnics.
“It is no longer justifiable to expend public funds on overseas education when robust local alternatives exist.”
The Minister noted that the funds used to sponsor BEA beneficiaries abroad—including airfare, tuition, stipends, and living expenses—will now be redirected towards strengthening local tertiary institutions for broader impact.
“This is a compassionate and equitable use of limited public resources,” he added.
However, Dr. Alausa clarified that the government remains open to foreign scholarships provided by other countries, provided such offers are fully funded.
“Any scholarship offer under a bilateral or multilateral arrangement must cover all expenses—including tuition, accommodation, transportation, healthcare, and a minimum monthly allowance of $500—without any financial obligation on the Nigerian government,” he stated.
He assured that existing BEA beneficiaries would continue to receive full government support until the completion of their studies.
“All current commitments will be honoured,” the Minister said.
Dr. Alausa also emphasized that the decision does not affect other scholarship and support programmes funded by the Federal Government.
These include the Nigerian Scholarship Awards for students in public institutions, the Federal Government Bursary for Education students, and the Presidential Scholarship Scheme for outstanding NYSC ex-Corps members.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to expanding the Nigerian Student Loan Programme, which provides interest-free loans for higher education within the country.
He added, “This is not an end, but a new beginning.
“We are building a more self-reliant and inclusive education system that leaves no Nigerian behind.”
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