An educational organisation representing UK universities in Nigeria, AHZ UK, has called on the Federal Government to create incentives that will encourage Nigerian students studying abroad to return home and contribute to national development.
The Chief Operating Officer of AHZ UK, Mr Olukayode Shiroye, made the appeal during the official opening of the AHZ House in Lagos.
Speaking at the event, Shiroye highlighted the value of international education, saying it exposes students to diverse cultures and broadens their global perspective.
He, however, emphasised the need for policies that would attract foreign-trained graduates back to Nigeria.
“When you have the opportunity to travel abroad to study, you widen your knowledge. Studying alongside people from across the world deepens your understanding,” he said.
“The idea is that once you’re done, you come back and invest in the country. But for that to happen, the government must create an enabling environment.”
Shiroye noted that Nigerians abroad are making notable contributions in their host countries and could replicate the same impact locally if adequately supported.
While acknowledging the financial commitment required to study abroad, he urged students to maximise the opportunity by acquiring quality education that would be useful back home.
“We encourage students to return to Nigeria and contribute by creating job opportunities and investing in the country,” he said.
He added that the government had in the past valued foreign-trained graduates for their broader knowledge and global exposure, and should consider re-establishing that recognition through institutional support.
“If the government can set up a dedicated ministry or agency to collaborate with Nigerians in the diaspora, it would be a significant step forward,” he suggested.
Also speaking at the event, the Country Manager of AHZ Nigeria, Mr Zahirul Islam, called on the Federal Government to increase investment in the education sector, especially in programmes that empower students to access international academic opportunities.
“Countries like China and Malaysia have invested heavily in their youth, and today, they are reaping the benefits. Nigeria can learn from their model,” Islam stated.
He explained that AHZ has a team of over 100 British Council-trained counsellors dedicated to guiding Nigerian students through their applications and visa processes to study in the UK.
“Our aim is not just to facilitate students leaving the country, but to ensure they acquire quality education abroad. We don’t stop at counselling—we walk with them through the entire visa process. So far, our success rate has been remarkably high,” he said.
