The Federal Government has commended the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for offering fully funded scholarships to 50 Nigerian students in petroleum and mineral studies.
The scholarship, which is part of a bilateral education and capacity-building initiative, was announced during a courtesy visit by the Saudi Ambassador to Nigeria, Yousef Bin Mohammed Al-Balawi, to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in Abuja on Monday.
According to a statement issued by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister, the Federal Government described the gesture as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s human capital development and a reflection of strong bilateral relations between both countries.
Idris said the initiative aligns with the government’s priority to strengthen key sectors of the economy through capacity building.
“This is not just a scholarship programme; it is a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future, particularly in key sectors such as petroleum and solid minerals that are central to our economic growth and diversification,” the Minister said.
He noted that the programme is expected to be sustained annually, with 50 Nigerian students benefiting each year.
“The fact that this initiative is designed to be continuous, with 50 Nigerian students benefiting year after year, makes it even more impactful. It guarantees a steady pipeline of skilled professionals for our critical industries,” he said.
The Minister also assured the Saudi envoy of Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and implementing existing agreements between both countries.
“We are committed as a government to deepening this partnership and ensuring that all existing agreements, including the pending Memoranda of Understanding in broadcasting and other sectors, are fully implemented for mutual benefit,” Idris said.
He further conveyed Nigeria’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia amid tensions in the Gulf region, calling for peace and diplomatic resolution.
“Let me also take this opportunity, on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, to express our solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at this time of tensions in the Gulf region. We sincerely hope for continued peace, stability, and diplomatic resolution of all issues,” he stated.
Earlier, Ambassador Al-Balawi conveyed the Saudi leadership’s appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for Nigeria’s solidarity, describing it as a reflection of strong relations between both countries.
He said the scholarship offer was conveyed through the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals and includes tuition, travel tickets, accommodation and monthly stipends.
“This initiative reflects the genuine and strong relationship between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria. It is about real cooperation and real investment in the future of Nigerian youth,” he said.
He also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand economic cooperation between both countries, particularly in trade and investment.
Officials present at the meeting included the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Binyerem C. Ukaire; Director, Public Communications and National Orientation, Barr. Henshaw Ogubike; Director, Production, Publications and Documentary, Mr. Okunnu Ibidapo; Director, Public Relations and Protocol, Dr. Suleiman Haruna, among others.
By: Saheed Oyelakin
