The Federal Government and the European Union (EU) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in education and human capital development through the Erasmus+ Programme.
Speaking at the 2025 Erasmus+ National Information Day in Abuja, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, described the initiative as a “transformative force” advancing education, innovation, and youth development across Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Represented by Dr. Ejeh Usman, Director of Polytechnic Education and Allied Institutions, the Minister said the programme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which identifies education as a catalyst for national transformation.
He commended the EU’s continued investment in Nigeria’s education sector, revealing that more than 500 Nigerian students and academics have benefited from scholarships and exchange programmes since 2021. Dr. Alausa also called for an increase in Nigeria’s scholarship quota under the Erasmus+ framework.
The Director of University Education, Mrs. Rakiya Ilyasu, said Erasmus+ is a €570 million project for Sub-Saharan Africa (2021–2027) promoting youth empowerment, innovation, and digital transformation.
In his remarks, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Zissimos Vergos, reaffirmed the EU’s support for Nigeria’s education reforms, noting that 11 joint projects currently involve Nigerian institutions in STEM, digital skills, and entrepreneurship.
The Ministry restated its commitment to expanding international learning partnerships and harnessing education as a foundation for sustainable national development.
