The House of Representatives has opened an investigation into the alleged non-payment of scholarship stipends owed to Nigerian students studying within the country and abroad—a problem that has disrupted academic activities and placed heavy financial pressure on families.
The inquiry is being handled by the House Committee on Students Loans, Scholarships, and Higher Education Financing, chaired by Hon. Ifeoluwa Ehindero.
During a public hearing on Wednesday in Abuja, parents of affected students—under the Forum of Parents and Guardians of FGN Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship Recipients—outlined the severe consequences of delayed payments.
Speaking on behalf of the forum, Chairman Prince Ponfa A. Wuyep explained that while host countries have continued to honour the BEA agreement, Nigeria has repeatedly failed to meet its own obligations. He noted that irregular payments have worsened in the last three years, violating the terms clearly stated in students’ award letters.
According to the parents, the official scholarship package includes:
A monthly stipend of $500
An annual $600 allowance for feeding, local transportation, and equipment
An annual $250 allowance for warm clothing
An annual $200 health insurance provision
A $60,000 take-off grant prior to travel
A one-way ticket to the country of study and a return ticket upon completion
However, they revealed that stipends have been inconsistent since 2023 and that none have been paid in 2025. They added that accumulated arrears, coupled with rising exchange rate challenges, have worsened students’ living conditions, jeopardising their health, safety, and academic performance.
Speaking at the hearing, Speaker of the House, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen—represented by Rep. David Agada—expressed concern that the delays were undermining students’ motivation and overall educational experience. He assured that the 10th Assembly is committed to improving administrative processes to protect students’ welfare.
Committee Chairman Hon. Ehindero described the situation as a failure of bureaucracy and a breach of national trust. He outlined the committee’s focus areas, which include:
Identifying the reasons behind payment delays
Reviewing the status of funds already released
Ensuring transparency, due process, and fairness in the administration of scholarship payments
He added: “A country that sends its students abroad must remain committed to funding and safeguarding them. These students represent our investment in the future, and lapses of this nature must never be allowed to happen again.”
