Tag: Bilateral education

  • FG Begins Payment of BEA Scholars’ Allowances, Says 50% Outstanding Funds Released

    The Federal Government has commenced the disbursement of outstanding allowances owed to beneficiaries of the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship Programme studying in partner countries.

    The announcement was made in a press statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Education on 19 May 2026.

    FG confirms release of funds

    According to the Ministry, the Central Bank of Nigeria has successfully remitted approved funds to Nigerian embassies and missions abroad for immediate disbursement to eligible scholars.

    The statement explained that the payment covers 50 percent of the outstanding 2025 obligations, while efforts are ongoing to clear the remaining balance.

    Minister assures students abroad

    The Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, said the released funds have already been sent to embassy accounts, adding that affected missions are expected to begin immediate payments.

    He urged students under the BEA programme to monitor their accounts as disbursement begins.

    Tinubu administration restates commitment

    The Ministry said the development reflects the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the welfare of Nigerian students abroad under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Bola Ahmed Tinubu, according to the statement, remains focused on improving education support systems and fulfilling obligations to scholars under government scholarship schemes.

    FG reiterates education support

    The Federal Government also reaffirmed its commitment to honouring legitimate obligations to Nigerian students abroad and sustaining policies aimed at strengthening education and human capital development.

    Officials added that the BEA programme remains a key component of Nigeria’s international education partnerships.

  • Nigerian Students in Russia Cry Out Over Unpaid Stipends, Seek Tinubu’s Intervention

    Nigerian students studying in Russia under a bilateral education agreement have raised concerns over their welfare, accusing the government of neglect.

    The affected students, mostly in medicine and engineering programmes, said they have not received stipends since September 2024.

    Hardship Forces Menial Jobs

    According to them, the delay has pushed many into financial distress, forcing them to take up low-paying jobs to survive.

    Some students said they now work on construction sites and other menial roles to meet basic needs.

    “We’re now forced into abject poverty… doing menial jobs like working in construction sites just to survive,” one student said.

    Appeal to Tinubu

    The students have called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene by releasing their allowances and improving support systems.

    “We were last paid in September 2024, and till date we haven’t received a dime from the government,” the student added.

    They described the situation as difficult and urged authorities to address their plight before it worsens.

    Concerns Over Bilateral Programme

    The development has raised fresh questions about the management of Nigeria’s bilateral education agreements and student welfare abroad.

    Many of the affected students say they remain committed to their studies but need urgent financial support to continue.