National Wire About Nigerians, Nigerian Business and Other Stories
Tayo Olanipekun
The U.S. Consul General, John Bray, has disclosed that more than 10,000 Nigerians are among the over one million international students in the United States of America this year.
He also noted that the number, which surpassed that of the previous year, was an example of strong Nigerian-U.S. ties.
Bray made the disclosure in Lagos during the opening of a two-day College and Career Fair for prospective undergraduates and graduates which ended Wednesday, according to a statement from the Public Affairs Section of the Consulate.
During the Fair, under the aegis of Education USA Advising Centre in collaboration with the Foreign Commercial Service of the U.S. Diplomatic Mission to Nigeria, Bray said his country offered students “an unrivaled educational experience, flexibility, and diversity.”
The annual event, which recorded a large turnout of students, their parents and guardians and admissions officers from 25 American colleges and universities, offered the participants access to information about institutions and opportunities available.
Institutions at the Fair included The George Washington University, Drexel University, University of Wisconsin and Western Kentucky University, among others.
Declaring the college and career fair open, the Consul General explained that America remains a leading destination for international students.
“This year,the number of international students in the United States climbed to over 1 million globally. More than 10,000 of these students are from Nigeria.I am pleased to see so many students, parents, teachers, and administrators here today.
“Your interest in studying in the United States is an example of strong U.S. – Nigerian ties. People–to–people exchanges –– and there are many between Nigeria and the United States–– are an important component of strengthening our bilateral relations,” he said.
EducationUSA advisers and alumni of U.S. universities joined the visiting admissions officers in offering guidance to the participants on the American college admissions process, standardized testing, and scholarship opportunities.
In addition to student consultations, sessions on student visa applications and international financial aid were also held.
The EducationUSA Advising Center at the U.S. Consulate General Lagos provides information to residents of Nigeria interested in tertiary study in the United States, and works closely with students who have the requisite academic qualifications.
The body proctors the LSAT test, coordinates the Opportunity Grant Program for academically gifted but financially disadvantaged students, supports the Career Connect summer internship program for returning students, and conducts the Annual College and Career Fair and outreach to universities, secondary schools, and American Corners.
