Fewer Nigerian students now seek education abroad, minister says
Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, has stated that fewer Nigerian students are leaving the country to study abroad. He argued that recent investments in local universities have made them more attractive to students. Alausa dismissed concerns about a mass exodus, saying the situation has changed compared to previous years. He highlighted increased demand for local academic programmes as evidence of this shift.
What we know
- Tunji Alausa rejected 2023 data showing high outbound student mobility, calling it outdated and unrepresentative.
- He said the 2023 figures reflected a period of disruption and underinvestment in Nigeria’s education system.
- The minister claimed there has been a steep decline in the number of students leaving to study abroad.
- He pointed to oversubscription in local programmes like JUPEB and law schools as signs of improved confidence in Nigerian institutions.
- Alausa credited academic continuity and quality improvements for making local universities more appealing.
