ABUJA –
A total of 104 young Nigerians have been awarded the prestigious European Union-funded Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Plus scholarships for the 2025/2026 academic session.
The Erasmus+ scholarship programme, renowned for promoting academic excellence and cultural exchange, will allow the recipients to pursue international postgraduate degrees across multiple universities in Europe and beyond.
In a statement released Tuesday, the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS confirmed that Nigeria remains Africa’s top participant in the Erasmus programme and is ranked among the top five globally, alongside countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Mexico.
Over 15,000 Global Applications
Speaking at the Erasmus+ Pre-Departure Orientation held in Abuja, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, congratulated the beneficiaries, highlighting the competitive nature of the selection process.
“Over 15,000 applications were made, and today, you stand among the selected few. You should be proud of yourselves, and so are we,” Ambassador Mignot said.
Of the 104 selected Nigerian scholars, 83 received fully funded scholarships, covering tuition, travel, insurance, and living expenses.
Since 2014, more than 800 Nigerians have benefited from the Erasmus+ programme, with over 600 awarded in just the last four years, reflecting the growing strength of EU–Nigeria educational ties.
A Transformational Global Experience
Ambassador Mignot described Erasmus Mundus as more than just an academic programme.
“It is a unique, transformative journey. Over the next 12 to 24 months, you will study and live across several countries, experience different educational systems and cultures, and build lifelong friendships,” he said.
He added that while most students will begin their studies in EU member states, others will commence in Türkiye, the UK, or even non-EU countries, depending on the structure of their specific Master’s programme.
EU’s Continued Commitment to Nigerian Education
Mignot emphasized the EU’s broader commitment to Nigeria’s educational development beyond Erasmus, noting its support for basic education, girls’ education, and access to education in conflict-affected regions, particularly in North-West Nigeria.
“This is a reflection of our long-term commitment to Nigeria – a country of vibrant talent, immense potential, and future leaders,” he said.
Minister of Youth: “Be Ambassadors of Nigeria”
The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, represented by Ebiho Agun, praised the EU for investing in youth capacity development and encouraged the scholars to become ambassadors of knowledge and culture.
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“You are about to embark on a journey that will expose you to global ideas and perspectives. Carry with you the spirit of Nigeria — our energy, resilience, and hope,” Olawande said.
Scholars Share Their Excitement
Stephen Agboola, awarded the Erasmus Master’s in Research and Innovation in Higher Education, said:
- “This programme allows me to engage with the evolving landscape of global education. I look forward to applying what I learn to drive innovation in Nigeria’s academic space.”
Louisa Asor, another awardee heading to France to study cybersecurity, expressed gratitude:
“This means everything to me. Cybersecurity is my passion, and this scholarship gives me the opportunity to grow, learn, and interact with diverse people from around the world.”
Study in Europe Fair
The event also featured the Study in Europe Fair, where prospective students interacted with university representatives and explored educational opportunities across the 27 EU member states.
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