At least 33 Nigerian students have been awarded full scholarships totalling $2.92 million to attend American universities and colleges during the 2024/2025 academic year.
The scholarships were awarded through the Opportunity Funds Programme of the United States Consulate General in Lagos.
The initiative is intended to promote access to US higher institutions for highly qualified international students with limited funds to cover the initial costs of attending a university in the United States.
“The 33 departing students — 10 undergraduate and 23 graduate students — will be studying a variety of subjects including biomedical engineering; computer science; mechanical engineering; earth and planetary sciences; organic and medicinal chemistry; civil, construction, and environmental engineering; among others.
“Following a competitive selection process, the successful students received financial aid that covered expenses involved in the college application process such as standardized tests, application fees, U.S. visa and SEVIS fees as well as air travel to the United States. EducationUSA advisers worked closely with the students through regularly scheduled meetings, seminars, and bootcamps, to assist them throughout the application process,” the Consulate announced in a statement on Wednesday.
Speaking at a reception in Lagos in honour of the US-bound students, Consul General Will Stevens urged them to take advantage of the opportunities American universities have to offer and become actively involved in the many organizations and clubs that will enrich their experience as international students.
“This Fall, you will join the over 17,000 Nigerian students studying in the United States. You have successfully navigated the daunting U.S. college and university admissions process and we are so excited for your future. You have excelled in Nigeria, and I have no doubt that you will continue that path of academic excellence,” Stevens told the departing students.
Chigozie Odo, one of the 2023 Opportunity Fund Programme scholars, has earned full support to pursue a Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of South Carolina.
His doctoral research will focus on immuno-therapy to contribute to lasting solutions to the treatment of cancer.
Odo, who lost his father and sole breadwinner for his family during his second year at university, expressed appreciation to the US government for covering the upfront costs of applying to U.S. universities through the Opportunity Funds Program.
“My dream of studying in the United States which seemed impossible is now a reality,” he added.