The House of Representatives has resolved to launch a comprehensive investigation into the alleged mismanagement of scholarship funds and the non-payment of stipends to Nigerian students studying abroad from 2015 to date. The move aims to find a lasting solution to the challenges faced by beneficiaries of government-sponsored scholarships.
The decision followed a motion raised by Hon. Chile Okafor, who cited alleged abuse of process, breach of agreements, and failure to disburse scholarship stipends by the Federal Scholarship Board (FSB).
Okafor noted that the FSB, operating under the Federal Ministry of Education, is legally mandated to administer scholarship programmes for Nigerian students both locally and internationally and to ensure full compliance with the terms of all scholarship agreements.
He expressed concern over the growing outcry from members of the Union of Nigerian Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) scholars, who have decried neglect, non-payment, and mistreatment by the government. According to him, the alleged mismanagement has left many students stranded abroad, forcing them into survival struggles that endanger their lives and dignity.
Okafor warned that abandoning Nigeria’s future leaders in foreign lands due to administrative lapses or corruption reflects a lack of commitment to education and youth development. He stressed that, as representatives of the people, lawmakers have a duty to protect Nigerian scholars abroad from neglect and humiliation.
He further lamented that delays in stipend payments, unexplained deductions, and prolonged financial hardship have caused distress among students and damaged Nigeria’s international image, thereby defeating the purpose of the scholarship programme, which is to promote human capital development.
In a related development, the House also urged the Nigeria Institute of Transport Technology (NITT) to complete and equip the Effuruntor Centre for operational use. This resolution followed a motion sponsored by Hon. Francis Ejiroghene Waive, who highlighted the need for the institute to comply with its establishment Act and ensure the centre becomes fully functional.
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