Nigeria tops Africa in US college enrollment
The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, has revealed that Nigeria leads all African countries in the number of students studying in the US.
Mills stated this at the 23rd Annual EducationUSA College Fair in Abuja on Tuesday.
Quoting recent data, Mills noted that over 17,600 Nigerian students studied across more than 970 US institutions last year, with Texas being the top choice.
He said, “It is wonderful to see the flourishing interest from Nigerians considering studying in the US.
“More Nigerians study in the United States than from any other African country.
“According to the most recent data, more than 17,600 Nigerian students studied at over 970 institutions in all 50 states and the District of Columbia last year. If you are wondering which state is the most popular – it’s Texas!”
The ambassador also noted that the EducationUSA College Fair provides a valuable platform for prospective students to explore educational opportunities and discuss career paths.
He revealed that the event has significantly increased the number of Nigerian applicants and boosted financial aid opportunities.
“Our annual College Fairs have significantly increased the number of excellent applicants to US institutions and boosted financial aid and scholarship opportunities for Nigerian students.
“Last year, over $30 million (47.7 billion naira) in financial aid, scholarships, and assistantships were awarded to students advised by EducationUSA Nigeria, with 73 students supported through the Opportunity Funds Programme in Abuja and Lagos,” Mills added.
Mills highlighted the importance of education in driving economic growth, enhancing health, and advancing gender equality, stressing that a prosperous Nigeria benefits both nations.
“Access to quality education is essential for equitable economic growth, improving health indicators, advancing gender equality, and promoting socioeconomic progress.
“A prosperous and stable Nigeria benefits both Nigeria and the United States, and it all starts with education,” he noted.
