The Ambassador of the United States of America (U.S.) to Nigeria, Richard M. Mills Jr., has said many universities in the U.S. prefer Nigerian students because they are talented.
He disclosed this at the EducationUSA’s 23rd annual college fair in Abuja on Tuesday.
The envoy said the talent, intellect and energy of Nigerian students were attracting universities in the U.S.
“Those of us who live here are well acquainted with the talent, intellect, and energy of Nigerian students,” he said.
The ambassador said Nigeria currently have the highest number of students in his country when compared with other African countries.
“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, he said.
The envoy said the United States’ 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.
“Many of those students attend a diverse range of institutions in the United States, from small liberal arts colleges to large state universities,’ he said.
Representatives from 50 U.S. colleges and universities were in attendance at the fair in Abuja.
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