FG pays 50% outstanding 2025 allowances to BEA scholarship beneficiaries

The Federal Government has commenced the disbursement of approved outstanding 2025 allowances to beneficiaries of the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship Programme, assuring Nigerian students studying abroad of its continued commitment to their welfare and academic success.

The development was disclosed in a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education.

According to the ministry, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has successfully remitted the approved funds to Nigerian embassies and missions in partner countries for immediate disbursement to eligible beneficiaries of the now terminated BEA Scholarship Programme.

Maruf Tunji Alausa, Minister of Education, said the released funds represent 50 per cent of the approved outstanding obligations for 2025, while efforts are ongoing to facilitate the release of the balance.

He explained that the funds had already reached the accounts of the affected embassies, which are expected to begin payments to scholars without delay.

“The affected embassies are expected to commence immediate payment to eligible scholars. Beneficiaries are therefore advised to monitor their accounts as payments are expected to begin reflecting accordingly,” the minister stated.

Alausa noted that the payment reflects the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to the welfare and academic progress of Nigerian students abroad under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He commended the patience and resilience shown by the affected students, stressing that the Federal Government remains committed to ensuring that no Nigerian scholar under government-sponsored programmes is left unsupported.

The minister further reiterated the government’s determination to fulfill all legitimate obligations to Nigerian students while sustaining policies that promote access to quality education and human capital development.

The Ministry of Education also reassured stakeholders of its continued dedication to the effective implementation of scholarship programmes and support for Nigerian students studying across the world.