Report: Nigerian Students’ Enrollment in US Rises by 22.2%

Michael Olugbode in Abuja and Ugo Aliogo

The newly released 2023 Open Doors Report on International Education Exchange has placed the United States as the preferred destination for global students, adding that of particular significance was the remarkable 22.2 percent increase in Nigerian student enrolment totalling 17,640 in the 2022/2023 academic year.

 A statement by the US Consulate in Nigeria revealed that Nigeria was the leading source of students’ from Africa and seventh largest contributor worldwide.

 The statement further revealed that Nigeria jumped from 10th place during the 2021/2022 school year and now sends more students to the US than Japan (8th), Brazil (9th), and Saudi Arabia (10th).

It noted that the substantial increase in Nigerian students choosing to study in the United States not only underscored the U.S. commitment to providing quality education for Nigerian scholars, but also plays a pivotal role in fostering stronger connections and cultural exchanges between our two nations.

 The statement averred that in a historic development, two Sub-Saharan African countries, including Ghana, were among the top 25 sending nations to the United States, emphasising the region’s rapid growth in international student representation.

 According to the statement. “Nearly 55 per cent of Nigerian students pursue graduate-level studies, reflecting the nation’s commitment to advanced education. 

“This data, unveiled by the Institute of International Education (IIE) and the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs in the Open Doors 2023 report, underscores the continued competitiveness of U.S. higher education, and marks the beginning of International Education Week.  This joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education aims to foster global awareness and attract future leaders from around the world to experience and learn in the United States.  The report is published annually by the Institute of International Education in partnership with the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.”