The Federal Government has formally terminated the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) scholarship scheme, branding it ineffective and unsustainable.
The decision marks a shift in educational funding policy, with a renewed focus on investing in home-grown talent through domestic scholarship schemes.
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The BEA had enabled Nigerian students to pursue studies in countries such as Russia, China, and Algeria.
But officials say the high cost of funding a few students abroad despite the availability of similar programmes in Nigeria makes it no longer viable.
Many courses studied overseas, such as sociology and psychology, are already offered at better standards locally.
Speaking in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students on Tuesday, Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, emphasised the need for change.
“We are not against international education, but not at the cost of fairness. It’s unjust to spend billions on a few when millions need help at home,” he said.
Alausa further expressed concern over the conduct of some BEA scholars. “Some of them have taken to social media to blackmail the government despite receiving regular support. That’s not acceptable,” he remarked.
He explained that in 2025 alone, N9 billion was projected for just 1,200 beneficiaries. “It’s not justifiable. That money can support tens of thousands of students locally with better oversight and impact.”
The minister assured that existing beneficiaries will be allowed to finish their studies, but no new students will be taken in under the scheme from 2025 onward.
“We’re committed to building a stronger, more inclusive education system at home,” Alausa concluded. “Our resources must be used to serve the majority, not the privileged few.”
This policy shift is expected to increase access and equity in Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
