The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, revealed that according to statistics, a staggering 99,985 Nigerian students departed their homeland to pursue higher education in the United Kingdom between 2017 and 2022.
This revelation was made during the inaugural session of the 2023 University of Lagos International Week, which commenced on Monday, October 9, in Lagos. The overarching theme of this international event is “Breaking the Borders of Partnership.”
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Tunji-Ojo stated, “Each year, over 100 Nigerian students benefit from scholarships for postgraduate and PhD programs. Speaking from a personal perspective, we witness hundreds of professionals and entrepreneurs leaving our shores to explore new horizons across the globe.
“As a nation, we bear the responsibility of facilitating the realization of their dreams. These students carry our national identity, which not only supports their ambitions but also defines their character.
“Data from the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) indicates that approximately 99,985 Nigerian students ventured abroad to enroll in British universities between 2017 and 2022.
“While some may argue that the majority of these students simply chose to study overseas for various reasons, it is undeniable that a substantial portion embarked on this journey with a genuine thirst for knowledge and self-improvement.
“In light of these circumstances, it prompts the question: Why should our students face unnecessary hurdles in acquiring international passports, especially when they have already paid for them?
“The pursuit of knowledge and opportunities across international borders fills us with pride, for it is through the endeavors of our youth that we secure a promising future.”
