In recent years, Nigerian students pursuing Higher Education abroad have increasingly become targets of violence and discrimination. From Africa to Europe, Asia to America, these young scholars face not only academic challenges but also the constant threat of physical harm. Whether at the hands of Security agents or local citizens, Nigerian students are frequently victims of fatal attacks. The list of countries where such incidents have occurred is extensive and includes the United Kingdom, Canada, Ghana, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates, and Cyprus.
The pain and grief experienced by the families of these students are immense, as many of these young people were either close to completing their studies or had just begun their academic journey when they were killed. A notable incident occurred on May 17, 2024, when 43-year-old Prince Ebuka was allegedly shot and killed by South African police in Daniëlskuil, Northern Cape. This incident, which remains shrouded in unclear circumstances, sparked outrage from the Nigerian Diaspora Forum (NDF). The NDF called for a thorough and transparent investigation, emphasizing the need for justice and the protection of Nigerians living abroad.
Drive for education abroad as a result of better prospects.
Similarly, the family of 19-year-old Afolabi Opaso continues to seek answers regarding his death on December 31, 2023, in Manitoba, Canada. Afolabi was reportedly shot by Winnipeg police officers responding to a well-being call. Such incidents highlight the dangers Nigerian students face, yet the pursuit of foreign Education remains a priority for many Nigerian families. Despite the risks, Nigerian parents and guardians continue to seek educational opportunities abroad for their children. The decline in the quality of Nigeria’s Educational System has led to a surge in education tourism.
Many believe that studying abroad offers better prospects and a higher standard of education compared to what is available in Nigeria. Human Rights lawyer Malachy Ugwumadu attributes this trend to the collapse of Nigeria’s educational infrastructure. He argues that the Outsourcing of education is a direct consequence of the government’s failure to adequately fund and support the local education system. According to Ugwumadu, the inability of successive Nigerian governments to allocate the United Nations’ recommended minimum budgetary requirement of 26 percent for education has exacerbated the situation.
Flawed Edu system drives harsh reality and discrimination.
Also, the treatment of Nigerian students abroad is often harsh and discriminatory. Xenophobia in South Africa, intolerance in Asian countries, and severe punishments for minor offenses are common issues faced by Nigerian students. These challenges are compounded by the fact that many of these students are far from home and lack the necessary support systems to navigate these hostile environments. Mrs. Chinyere Anokwuru, President and Founder of Selfworth Organisation for Women Development, emphasizes that despite these dangers, the dysfunctional state of Nigeria’s education system justifies the pursuit of education abroad. She points to constant industrial actions by lecturers and the presence of unqualified teachers as major factors driving parents to seek better opportunities for their children overseas.
Anokwuru also highlights the importance of proper parental counselling and orientation. She believes that well-guided students are less likely to engage in risky behaviours such as clubbing and cultism, which can lead to dangerous situations abroad. The Nigerian government and relevant stakeholders must take decisive action to protect their citizens abroad. The National Assembly, particularly the Committees on Diaspora in the House of Representatives and Senate, should hold the Ministry of Foreign Affairs accountable. There is an urgent need for policies and measures that ensure the safety and well-being of Nigerian students overseas.
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Curtis Anthony, a public administrator, stresses the need for a holistic approach to understanding the factors driving Nigerian students abroad. He believes that addressing the state of education and security in Nigeria is crucial. The abduction of schoolgirls in northern states and the killing of students in the Northeast due to Insecurity are stark reminders of the challenges within Nigeria. Anthony also points out the economic factors at play, highlighting the exploitative nature of the global economy. He argues that marginalization and lack of access to Basic Needs drive individuals to seek better opportunities abroad, despite the inherent risks.