The Federal Government has dismissed reports suggesting that Nigerian scholarship students in Morocco have been abandoned, affirming that all valid beneficiaries continue to receive government support.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, described the claims as “false, unfounded, and deliberately crafted to mislead the public.” Through the ministry’s Director of Press and Public Affairs, Boriowo Folasade, he stated: “No Nigerian student on a valid Federal Government scholarship has been abandoned.”
Dr. Alausa clarified that students enrolled under the Bilateral Education Scholarship Programme before 2024 have received funding up to the 2024 budget year in line with government obligations. Any delays in payments, he noted, are due to fiscal constraints, which are being addressed through discussions with the Ministry of Finance.
The minister also debunked claims of new bilateral scholarship awards granted from October 2025 onward, describing the supporting documents as “fake and unauthenticated.”
He explained that the government’s decision to discontinue certain overseas scholarships followed a policy review showing that Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education now have the capacity to provide these programs locally. Scholarships fully funded by foreign governments will continue, with host countries covering all obligations.
Students already enrolled under previous arrangements will continue to receive full support until they complete their programs. Those wishing to return to Nigeria may do so easily, with the government covering reintegration and travel costs.
Dr. Alausa emphasized that the reforms aim to eliminate inefficiencies and abuses, ensure prudent use of public funds, and maintain transparency and accountability. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerian students and warned against misinformation intended to undermine education policies.
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