The Nigerian federal government has dismissed reports that it has abandoned its scholarship students in Morocco, stating that all valid beneficiaries continue to receive government support. According to the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, claims suggesting otherwise are “false, unfounded, and deliberately crafted to mislead the public.”
Dr. Alausa explained that students enrolled in the Bilateral Education Scholarship Programme prior to 2024 have received funding up to the 2024 budget year, in line with the government’s obligations. Any delays in payments, he noted, are due to fiscal constraints, but the matter is being addressed through ongoing discussions between the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Finance.
The minister also debunked claims of new bilateral scholarship awards being granted in October 2025 or later, describing the supporting documents as “fake and unauthenticated.” This development follows a comprehensive policy review, which led to the government’s decision to discontinue certain overseas scholarships. The review found that Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education now have sufficient capacity to offer these programs locally.
As a result, only scholarships fully funded by foreign governments will continue, with all financial obligations handled by the host countries. However, students already enrolled under previous arrangements will continue to receive full support until the completion of their programs. The government will also facilitate the reintegration of students who wish to return home into Nigerian institutions and cover their return travel expenses.
The reforms, according to Dr. Alausa, aim to eliminate inefficiencies and abuses in the scholarship system, which had previously imposed unnecessary financial burdens on the nation. By promoting transparency, accountability, and prudent management of public resources, the government seeks to strengthen national capacity and protect the integrity of the education sector. The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerian students, cautioning against misinformation or attempts to discredit policies that benefit the nation.
