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EducationUSA: In 2023 Over $30bn Was Awarded In Scholarships, Financial Aid To Nigerian Students – U.S. Ambassador

Published

3 months ago

September 17, 2024

By Gloria Ikibah

The United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills Jr. has said that there is a strong relationship between the United States and Nigeria, especially in the area of education.

The U.S Ambassador who stated this at the 23rd Annual College Fair hosted by the U.S. Embassy’s EducationUSA on Tuesday, in Abuja, disclosed that last year 2023, over $30 million (47.7 billion naira) in scholarships and financial aid were awarded to Nigerian students.

The event brings together representatives from 50 U.S. colleges and universities, providing Nigerian students with valuable insights into studying in America.

Ambassador Mills Jr. emphasized that there are more Nigerian who study in the U.S. than from any other African country, with over 17,600 Nigerians attending various institutions across all 50 states, with Texas being a popular destination.

He said: “Your presence here represents the strong people-to-people ties between the United States and Nigeria. It is wonderful to see the flourishing interest from Nigerians considering studying in the United States and from the representatives of U.S. colleges and universities who travel to Nigeria, to meet with prospective students.

“Our Embassy-sponsored College Fair provides you all with a great opportunity to obtain current information on studying in the United States and to discuss career possibilities.

“We are glad you are here, following in the footsteps of thousands of Nigerians who have traveled to the United States to study. More Nigerians study in the United States than from any other African country. According to the most recent data, more than 17,600 Nigerian students studied at over 970 institutions in all 50 states and the District of Columbia last year. If you are wondering which state is the most popular – it’s Texas!

“Our annual College Fairs have significantly increased the number of excellent applicants to U.S. institutions and boosted financial aid and scholarship opportunities for Nigerian students. Last year, over $30 million (47.7 billion naira) in financial aid, scholarships, and assistantships were awarded to students advised by EducationUSA Nigeria, with 73 students supported through the Opportunity Funds Program in Abuja and Lagos”.

The envoy also emphasized that education plays a crucial role in fostering economic growth, improving health, advancing gender equality, and promoting societal progress in both countries.

“A prosperous and stable Nigeria benefits both Nigeria and the United States, and it all starts with education.

“Studying in the United States also creates new friendships that will last a lifetime. You will experience the tapestry of American culture and hopefully get to understand us as Americans better. And you will share your country’s rich and vibrant culture with your new American friends whose horizons will broaden as a result.

“Our Public Diplomacy team from the Embassy will be on hand to answer questions and guide you. We also have representatives from the U.S. Embassy Consular section here to explain their role in international education. I hope you will take advantage of this great opportunity today and that attendance at a U.S. college or university is in your very near future”, Amb. Mill Jr. added.

He therefore encouraged students to seize this opportunity, even as he noted that studying in the U.S. offers not only academic excellence but also a chance to build lasting relationships and share cultural experiences.

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Tinubu Honors Lives Lost In Anambra, Abuja Crises Cancels All Events

Published

7 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Naijablitznews

President Bola Tinubu has called off all of his scheduled events in Lagos today in solidarity with the victims of stampedes in Anambra and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).The tragic incidents resulted in the deaths of 10 people, including children, at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Maitama, Abuja, and at least 20 individuals from the Okija community in Anambra, during a rice distribution event on Saturday morning.

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, revealed that despite dignitaries and senior officials being present at the event venue, the President made the decision to cancel his attendance after receiving updates on the tragedies.

Expressing his condolences, President Tinubu called for stricter crowd control measures by local authorities and organizations involved in public events. He emphasized that such tragedies, including similar incidents in Ibadan, Oyo State, were preventable if event planners adhered to safety protocols.

In his statement, President Tinubu extended his prayers for the souls of the victims, a swift recovery for the injured, and urged relevant authorities to ensure better operational standards for future events. He also wished the Lagos State government success in hosting the Boat Regatta, a major festival, which was set to take place in his absence.

News

SEE Black Market Exchange Rate: USD to NGN

Published

12 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Naijablitznews

As of Friday, December 20, 2024, the exchange rate for the US Dollar to the Nigerian Naira at the Lagos Parallel Market (Black Market) stands at:

Buying Rate: ₦1,656
Selling Rate: ₦1,660
These rates reflect the prices at which players in the Bureau De Change (BDC) sector are buying and selling US dollars.

It is important to note that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) does not recognize the parallel market, as the official directive encourages individuals wishing to engage in foreign exchange transactions to approach their respective banks for the official rates.

Official Dollar to Naira CBN Rate Today:

Highest Rate: ₦1,570
Lowest Rate: ₦1,532
Please bear in mind that the exchange rates at the black market or any other exchange point may vary based on market dynamics and fluctuations, so the rates you encounter might be different from those mentioned in this article.

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Tinubu condoles with NUJ , IPI over Rafat Salami’s passage

Published

12 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Naijablitznews

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) following the passing of Hajiya Rafat Onyeche Salami, the recently elected Treasurer of the International Press Institute (IPI).

Her loss has been deeply felt across the journalistic community and beyond.

Hajiya Salami also served as the Secretary of the NUJ, Abuja Council, dedicating her talents and passion to advancing journalism in Nigeria.

President Tinubu commiserates with the leadership and members of the IPI, the Voice of Nigeria (VON) staff, and the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), acknowledging Salami’s unwavering commitment to her profession and nation.

In her career as a reporter, broadcaster, and producer, Hajiya Salami tried to keep the public informed on crucial developmental issues.

Her advocacy for women’s and children’s rights was a testament to her strong voice and compassionate spirit.

President Tinubu calls upon her colleagues, friends, and family to honour her by continuing the impactful work she championed as they bid farewell to the multilingual and multitalented journalist.