Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, has claimed that school fees in foreign countries are more expensive than those in Nigeria, urging young Nigerians to conduct thorough research before deciding to relocate abroad.
Speaking during a panel session on Channels Television on Thursday, Olawande addressed concerns about the 'japa' phenomenon—the trend of Nigerians relocating abroad—while highlighting the impact of the Tinubu administration's educational policies.
"We should, most times, make our research than following trend. Sometimes trend may not work for us," the Minister advised, cautioning young Nigerians against making decisions based solely on popular movements.
Olawande emphasized President Bola Tinubu's commitment to education through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), describing it as evidence that "the President is looking at the future."
"This is the first time the President is thinking about the future. And if a president comes out and says he, as a President, does not want any student to go out of school because you are not able to pay the school fees, I think it's a plus for the student," he stated.
Comparing Education Costs
The Minister drew parallels between Nigeria's student loan system and those of countries that are popular destinations for Nigerian emigrants, asserting that "Most of these countries that you will japa to, that's the same thing they do, even their school fees is more expensive."
According to Olawande, the government is working to ensure that graduates can secure employment after completing their education, enabling them to repay their loans—a system he claims is similar to those in countries where Nigerians emigrate.
The Minister's comments come amid ongoing concerns about Nigeria's brain drain, particularly in sectors like healthcare and technology, where professionals continue to leave the country in search of better opportunities abroad.
NELFUND was established to provide financial assistance to Nigerian students in tertiary institutions, aiming to reduce the financial barriers to higher education in the country.
