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US Embassy Says N23.2 billion financial aid, scholarship granted to Nigerian studens in 2022
US Embassy Says N23.2 billion financial aid, scholarship granted to Nigerian studens in 2022
… 9,000 student visas issued, 14,400 Nigerians currently studying in US
By: Michael Mike
The Unted States government has granted about N23.2 billion financial aid and scholarships to Nigerians studying within its country.
The United States Embassy in Nigeria also disclosed that in 2021 alone, Nigerian students contributed a staggering $449 million to the U.S. economy, quoting figures from the Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Department of Commerce.
Nigeria is ranked number one in Sub-Saharan Africa and ranks 10th in the world in numbers of students that attend higher education institutions in the United States.
Also, 50% of Nigerian students studying in the U.S. are pursuing graduate-level education, according to US Embassy, which disclosed that Mission Nigeria issued over 9,000 student visas last year, resulting in an astounding 405.3% increase in visa issuance.
The Embassy said after Texas, the top receiving states for Nigerian students are Illinois, New York, Georgia, and Massachusetts, adding that no fewer than 14,400 Nigerian students are currently studying in institutions across the US with the students said to spread across 973 institutions, spanning all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
Adnan Siddiqi Counselor for Public Affairs, US Embassy, Abuja gave these details on Monday at the opening of the 22nd annual U.S. Embassy and Education USA College Fair, EducationUSA.
Siddiqi said the financial aid and scholarships were granted to students advised by EducationUSA.
He said that the fair provides information on studying in the USA and also carrier paths.
Siddiqi said: “In the past year alone, nearly $30 million (23.2 billion naira) in financial aid and scholarships were granted to students advised by EducationUSA.”
He added that Nigeria sends more students to the United States than any other African country.
Siddiqi who was quoting a recent report said, “It is worth noting that Nigeria sends more students to the United States than any other African country.
” According to the latest data available, over 14,400 students are currently pursuing their studies in over 973 institutions, spanning all 50 states and the District of Columbia. And if you are curious about the most popular state, it is none other than Texas! “
Siddiqi while attributing the increase in number of Nigerians studying in the US to the annual fair, said: “Our annual college fairs have played a pivotal role in boosting the number of outstanding applicants to U.S. institutions, as well as in securing additional financial aid and scholarship opportunities for Nigerian students.
“Many of those students attend a diverse range of institutions in the United States, from small liberal arts private colleges to large state universities.”
Representatives from 54 U.S. colleges and universities were in attendance at the fair.
US Embassy Says N23.2 billion financial aid, scholarship granted to Nigerian studens in 2022
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
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