Over 7,000 Nigerians study in American universities — Consul-General

The official commended Osun State for its education policies.

The Consul-General of the U.S. in Nigeria, Jefferey Hawkins, on Friday in Osogbo said no fewer than 7,000 Nigerians were studying in various American universities as foreign students.

Mr. Hawkins, who said this when he visited Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun, also commended him for making education a priority.

“We are in Osun to see and feel the culture and tourism of the state, as well as to understand the heritage, belief system and culture of the people of the South-West.

“We appreciate the beautiful scenery and ambience of the Osun Grove, and we hope to repeat this (visit) yearly,” Mr. Hawkins said.

The Consul-General, who particularly lauded Mr. Aregbesola for his reforms in education, observed that with what was on ground in the state, the governor was a lover of education.

He said the governor had proved that education was a major sector in national and human development by re-structuring the sector in line with best practices in the world.

Mr. Hawkins said the more than 7,000 Nigerian students studying in different American universities was the highest from the African continent.

“This figure is higher than that of any country on the African continent. This shows how governments in this country take education very serious,” he added.

Responding, Mr. Aregbesola said his administration would continue to give education the priority it deserved, adding that he had learnt so much from the U.S. example.

Mr. Hawkins was in company of some U.S. Consulate officials during the visit to the state for its art and cultural attractions.

(NAN)