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.
“We are Medical and Engineering students from Nigeria sent to study in Russia by the Nigerian government under the bilateral education agreement with Russia. But the Nigerian govt left us stranded since we got here. We're now forced to do menial jobs to survive.”
Nigerians sent… pic.twitter.com/RjeMEeQQru
— Obiasogu David (@afrisagacity) April 26, 2026