Nigeria Nigerian Government Slashes Allowances for Stranded Foreign Scholars by 12.7% Amid Economic Hardship

Nigeria's Federal Government reduces allowances for stranded foreign scholars by 12.7% due to economic hardships, affecting students in Russia, Morocco, and other countries. The cuts have sparked frustration among scholars and highlight ongoing financial challenges and mismanagement within the country.

Amid Nigeria's ongoing economic crisis, the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Education, has announced a 12.7% reduction in allowances for Nigerian scholars studying abroad under the Bilateral Educational Agreement (BEA) Scholarship. This decision affects students in countries such as Russia, Morocco, Algeria, China, and Hungary.

Previously unpaid for eight months, the students now face further financial strain, with monthly allowances cut from $500 to $220 and other allowances similarly reduced. This move, detailed in a memo from the Federal Scholarship Board, aims to align payments with current budgetary constraints.

Scholars and their families have expressed frustration and concern over the impact on their education and well-being, while some government officials defend the cuts as necessary due to the prevailing economic challenges. The reductions highlight the broader issues of corruption and mismanagement within Nigeria, sparking heated debate and varied reactions from the public.




Source: Punch Newspaper