The Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, has clarified that the allowances of stranded Nigerian scholars, owed for over 13 months, were adjusted due to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.

The Federal Ministry of Education had previously announced a reduction in allowances for foreign scholars in countries such as Russia, Morocco, and Algeria.

These scholars are part of the Federal Government’s Bilateral Educational Agreement Scholarship.

In a letter addressed to the minister, the scholars expressed strong opposition to the reduction, citing severe financial hardship.

They noted that the 56% reduction leaves them unable to cover essential expenses like rent, utilities, and food.

In response, the minister, speaking to the National Association of Nigerian Students, stated that the adjustments were necessary due to budget constraints and Forex fluctuations.

He assured that the ministry aims to pay the full amount once additional funds are secured.