Nigeria has emerged as the leading African country in terms of the number of students studying in the United States, according to U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills.
Mills made this disclosure at the 23rd Annual EducationUSA College Fair held in Abuja on Tuesday.
Citing recent data, Mills revealed that over 17,600 Nigerian students enrolled in more than 970 institutions across the United States in 2023, with Texas being the most popular destination.
“It is wonderful to see the flourishing interest from Nigerians considering studying in the U.S.,” Mills stated. “More Nigerians study in the United States than from any other African country. According to the most recent data, more than 17,600 Nigerian students studied at over 970 institutions in all 50 states and the District of Columbia last year. If you are wondering which state is the most popular – it’s Texas!”
The Ambassador emphasised the importance of the EducationUSA College Fair, which serves as a vital platform for Nigerian students to explore educational opportunities and career pathways in the U.S. He noted that the fair has played a crucial role in increasing the number of Nigerian applicants to U.S. institutions while boosting access to financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
“Our annual College Fairs have significantly increased the number of excellent applicants to U.S. institutions and boosted financial aid and scholarship opportunities for Nigerian students,” Mills said. “Last year, over $30 million (47.7 billion naira) in financial aid, scholarships and assistantships were awarded to students advised by EducationUSA Nigeria. In addition, 73 students were supported through the Opportunity Funds Programme in Abuja and Lagos.”
Mills also highlighted the broader significance of education in driving economic growth, improving health outcomes and promoting gender equality. He stressed that a prosperous and stable Nigeria benefits both Nigeria and the United States, with education playing a key role in achieving these goals.
“Access to quality education is essential for equitable economic growth, improving health indicators, advancing gender equality, and promoting socioeconomic progress,” he said. “A prosperous and stable Nigeria benefits both Nigeria and the United States, and it all starts with education.”
EducationUSA centres in Nigeria have been instrumental in providing accurate, comprehensive and current guidance on accredited U.S. colleges and universities to Nigerian students from diverse backgrounds. Through initiatives like the Cohort and Opportunity programmes, EducationUSA advisors identify academically talented students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, helping them strengthen their applications and secure scholarships or financial aid.
The annual education fair also fosters partnerships between U.S. and Nigerian higher education institutions, creating opportunities for collaboration and mutual growth in the education sector.
