A total of 104 young Nigerians have been selected for the prestigious European Union-funded Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Plus Programme for the 2025–2026 academic session, receiving full or partial postgraduate scholarships to study across various countries.
The scholarships aim to equip students with interdisciplinary knowledge and skills that prepare them for global roles as researchers, professionals, or policymakers. According to the EU, Nigeria remains Africa’s leading participant in the Erasmus programme and ranks in the top five globally, alongside countries in South Asia and Mexico.
Speaking at the 2025 Erasmus Plus Pre-Departure Orientation held in Abuja, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, congratulated the recipients and applauded their success in the highly competitive selection process.
“Out of more than 15,000 applications worldwide, 104 Nigerian students have been selected this year — 83 of whom, nearly 80 percent, secured fully funded scholarships,” Ambassador Mignot revealed. “This is a moment of pride for you and for us,” he added.
He also noted that over 800 Nigerians have received Erasmus scholarships since 2014, with more than 600 awarded in the last four years alone, reflecting the high calibre of Nigerian youth and the strength of EU–Nigeria relations.
Addressing the awardees, the Ambassador emphasized the transformational nature of the Erasmus Mundus experience: “This programme is not your typical academic course. Over the next 12 to 24 months, you will study, grow, and live in multiple countries, gaining exposure to different cultures, education systems, and worldviews.”
He explained that while most recipients will begin their studies in EU Member States, others will study in countries like Türkiye and the United Kingdom as part of the increasingly global Erasmus network. Participants will engage with various institutions, including academic universities, technical schools, and polytechnics.
“At the end of your journey, you will not only earn an internationally recognised master’s degree but also build lifelong connections, gain global exposure, and return with a wider lens on life,” he said.
Highlighting the EU’s ongoing commitment to education in Nigeria, Ambassador Mignot added, “We are investing in Nigeria’s education sector — from basic education and girls’ education to support in regions affected by insecurity, particularly in the North-West. This reflects our commitment to your nation’s future.”
Also present at the event was the Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, who described the Erasmus scholarship as a chance for young Nigerians to serve as cultural and intellectual ambassadors. Represented by Ebiho Agun, Technical Adviser to the Minister, he commended the EU for recognizing youth as the drivers of innovation, growth, and change.
“You are not only going for education, but for a life-changing experience,” Olawande said. “As you journey across Europe, remember you are carrying the Nigerian identity — full of energy, brilliance, and purpose. Your presence will connect nations and inspire global partnerships.”
One of the scholarship recipients, Stephen Agboola, who will be studying Research and Innovation in Higher Education, said the opportunity aligns perfectly with his career goals. “This programme allows me to engage deeply with the evolving landscape of education and innovation, especially within the Nigerian context,” he said.
Another awardee, Louisa Asor, who will be studying cybersecurity in France, expressed excitement about exploring her passion. “This is a dream come true. I’m eager to grow, experience new cultures, and challenge myself beyond my comfort zone,” she shared.
The event also featured a Study in Europe Fair, where attendees explored various study options available across the 27 EU Member States, interacting with representatives and learning about scholarship and program opportunities.
