By Abigail Philip David
Nigeria has emerged as the seventh-largest source of international students in the United States and the top in Africa, according to the 2024 Open Doors Report on International Education Exchange.
The report, released during International Education Week, revealed that 20,029 Nigerian students are currently enrolled in US colleges and universities for the 2023/2024 academic year. This marks a 13.5% increase from the previous year and underscores Nigeria’s strong ties with the United States in the field of education.
Record-Breaking International Enrolment
The US is hosting a record 1,126,690 international students this academic year—the highest number in history. Nigerian students account for a significant portion of this group and are noted for their academic excellence and commitment to higher education. Over 55% of Nigerian students in the US are pursuing graduate-level studies, contributing to the academic and cultural diversity of American institutions.
“Nigeria, with 20,029 students, reinforces its position as the top sending country from Africa and the seventh largest globally,” the US Embassy said in a statement.
The steady rise in Nigerian enrolment highlights the increasing demand for US education and the enduring partnership between the two nations.
Sub-Saharan Africa: Fastest-Growing Region
The report also highlighted that Sub-Saharan Africa remains the fastest-growing region for international education. The region recorded a 13% increase in student mobility in 2023/2024, following an 18% rise in 2022/2023.
“The influx of Nigerian students is a testament to the robust educational ties between the US and Nigeria,” the report noted.
Educational Exchange and Global Collaboration
The Open Doors Report, published by the Institute of International Education in collaboration with the US Department of State, serves as a key benchmark for global educational exchange. It emphasizes the importance of fostering mutual understanding and collaboration through education.
International Education Week, during which the report was unveiled, is an initiative designed to promote cross-cultural learning and inspire future leaders to pursue studies in the United States.
The rising enrolment of Nigerian students not only reflects the high value placed on US education but also strengthens the academic and cultural exchange between the two countries.
