Abuja - The House of Representatives Committee on Student Loans, Scholarships and Higher Education Financing has opened an investigative public hearing into alleged abuses and failures in the administration of government scholarships for Nigerian students studying overseas.
The hearing, held at Conference Room 028 of the National Assembly, follows mounting complaints of delayed stipends, breached agreements, and widespread mismanagement attributed to the Federal Scholarship Board.
In his remarks, the Committee Chairman Hon. Ifeoluwa Ehindero said the inquiry is a critical national responsibility aimed at protecting students and safeguarding public trust.
“Today’s investigative hearing is not merely another parliamentary ritual. It is a solemn exercise of our constitutional duty to protect Nigerian students, uphold transparency, and ensure that public institutions perform their mandates with integrity.”
He noted that the matter originated from a motion raised on the floor of the House on October 8, 2025, after concerns from affected beneficiaries intensified.
According to the Chairman, the Committee is investigating five major areas of alleged misconduct:
1. Abuse of administrative processes in scholarship administration
2. Breach of terms of engagement with government-sponsored students abroad
3. Persistent delays or failure to pay stipends to Nigerian scholars in the diaspora
4. Lack of transparency and accountability in fund management
5. Poor communication and neglect of student welfare
He warned that if confirmed, these allegations amount to “a profound betrayal of national trust” and pose serious risks to students’ academic and emotional well-being.
The Committee disclosed that it has received multiple distress reports from scholarship beneficiaries abroad, including:
• Students stranded without living stipends
• Threats of eviction and visa cancellation
• Risk of academic withdrawal due to unpaid fees
• Months-long delays despite approved budgets
• A widening communication gap between the Board and beneficiaries
“These situations raise urgent questions about due process and accountability,” the Chairman said.
Reassurance to Students Abroad
Addressing Nigerian scholars in foreign countries, the Chairman delivered an emotional message:
“To our dear Nigerian students across continents many of whom have written, petitioned and protested we hear you. We feel your pain. We understand the hardship you have endured.
Today’s hearing is dedicated to you. Your country owes you justice, and this Committee intends to deliver it.”
He stressed that the hearing is not a witch-hunt, but a fact-finding exercise aimed at uncovering the truth and ensuring fairness.
Expectations From Government Agencies
The Committee demanded full cooperation from the Federal Scholarship Board and officials of the Federal Ministry of Education, insisting on transparency and complete disclosure of records.
“Scholarship funds are public funds appropriated by the National Assembly for a clear and noble purpose. Any deviation from that purpose is unacceptable,” the Chairman stated.
In his closing remarks, the Chairman Hon. Ifeoluwa Ehindero reaffirmed the Committee’s resolve to ensure accountability and lasting reform.
“The future of our nation rests heavily on the shoulders of the students we send out to learn, innovate, and return with knowledge to build Nigeria. This Committee will ensure that every fact is uncovered, every responsibility assigned, and every necessary corrective action recommended. Nigeria must never again be a country that abandons its scholars.”
He urged all participants to approach the process with honesty, cooperation, and commitment to the common good.
Next Steps
The Committee is expected to:
• Review submitted documents
• Question key stakeholders
• Determine responsibility where failures are established
• Recommend structural reforms to prevent future occurrences
A report will be submitted to the House of Representatives at the conclusion of the investigation.
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