A New Chapter for Nigerian Students Through EU-Funded Scholarships
In a significant development, 104 young Nigerians were recently awarded European Union (EU)-funded postgraduate scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic sessions. These scholarships are part of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Plus programme, which is designed to equip students with interdisciplinary skills that prepare them for impactful careers as practitioners, researchers, or decision-makers in their chosen fields.
Nigeria has emerged as the leading country in Africa for participation in the Erasmus programme and ranks among the top five globally alongside South Asian countries and Mexico. This achievement highlights the growing engagement between Nigeria and the EU in educational initiatives.
During the Erasmus Plus Pre-Departure Orientation event in Abuja, Gautier Mignot, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, expressed his pride in the awardees. He highlighted the competitive nature of the application process, noting that over 15,000 applications were received, and only a select few were chosen. “You should be proud of yourselves and so are we,” he said.
This year, 104 Nigerian students will begin their Erasmus Masters in September, with 83 of them securing fully funded Erasmus scholarships. Since 2014, more than 800 Nigerians have been awarded Erasmus scholarships, with over 600 in the last four years alone. The ambassador emphasized that this reflects the brilliance, determination, and potential of Nigerian youth, as well as the strength of the partnership between Nigeria and the EU.
A Transformative Educational Journey
The Erasmus Plus programme is not just an academic opportunity; it is a transformative journey that spans across several countries. Over the next 12 to 24 months, students will live, study, and grow in different cultures, educational systems, and ways of life. While most will be in EU Member States, some programmes are expanding internationally, with opportunities in countries like Turkey and the UK.
The programme includes a diverse range of universities, from those focused on traditional academics to technical institutions and polytechnics with vocational orientations. Upon completion, students will hold internationally recognized master’s degrees from top universities worldwide, along with global experiences, lifelong friendships, and a broader perspective on the world.
Commitment to Education and Development
The European Union continues to invest in education in Nigeria through various initiatives beyond the Erasmus programme. These include support for basic education, girls’ education, and access to education in areas affected by insecurity, particularly in the North-West. This commitment reflects the EU’s dedication to strengthening ties with Nigeria, a country known for its immense potential and vibrant youth.
Hon. Ayodele Olawande, Minister of Youth Development, described the Erasmus scholarship programme as more than an academic opportunity. He emphasized that it is a call to serve as ambassadors of knowledge, culture, and cooperation. Represented by Ebiho Agun, Technical Adviser to the Minister, Hon. Olawande commended the EU for its investment in human capital and recognition of young people as drivers of change, innovation, and sustainable development.
A Journey of Growth and Opportunity
Addressing the awardees, Hon. Olawande encouraged them to embrace the journey ahead. “You are about to embark on a journey that will equip you with world-class education, expose you to diverse perspectives, and broaden your vision of what is possible, not only for yourselves, but for our nation,” he said.
He reminded them to carry the spirit of Nigeria with them, including its energy, resilience, and hope. Their presence in Europe will serve as a bridge between continents, connecting cultures and deepening mutual understanding between Nigeria and the European Union.
Personal Experiences and Aspirations
Stephen Agboola, a recipient of the Erasmus Masters in Research and Innovation in Higher Education, shared his excitement about the opportunity. “This is a broader opportunity for me to practically engage in the intricate dynamics of higher education because the ways of education are changing globally,” he said. He sees the programme as a unique chance to acquire knowledge, especially in the areas of innovation and technology.
Louisa Asor, another awardee, expressed her enthusiasm about studying cyber security in France. She highlighted the significance of the opportunity, particularly given her passion for the field. “This means a lot to me, and I look forward to immersing myself in a different culture and meeting people from all walks of life,” she said.
Expanding Educational Opportunities
The event also featured the Study in Europe Fair, where future applicants explored the many educational opportunities available across the 27 EU Member States. This initiative aims to encourage more students to consider studying in Europe and take advantage of the diverse academic and cultural experiences available.
