The Federal Ministry of Education has moved to dispel confusion over the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) Scholarship, clarifying that its inclusion in the 2026 national budget does not signal a reinstatement of new awards under the scheme.
In a press release issued late Thursday , April 30, the Ministry explained that the allocation originates from the 2025 budget, which had already been approved before the suspension of new BEA scholarships in April–May 2025.
It stressed that budgetary procedures prevent retroactive removal of such provisions, meaning the line item carried forward into 2026 is procedural rather than policy‑driven.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, explained that the 2026 budget is largely a roll‑over of the 2025 fiscal framework. He noted that existing budget lines, including BEA, were automatically carried forward as part of standard practice.
“The presence of the allocation is purely procedural and does not signal the resumption of new scholarship awards,” Alausa said.
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The ministry further clarified that any adjustments to the BEA budget line can only be made through an approved virement to align with current government policies. It also reassured stakeholders that all current BEA beneficiaries studying abroad will continue to receive full government support, despite the discontinuation of new awards.
Officials urged the public to disregard misleading interpretations of the budget provision, emphasizing that the government remains committed to transparency, accountability, and prudent resource management. The clarification comes amid speculation that the scholarship scheme might have been quietly reinstated, a narrative the Ministry firmly rejected
By reaffirming its stance, the Ministry sought to assure Nigerians that while existing beneficiaries remain protected, the suspension of new BEA scholarships announced in 2025 remains in force.
Patience Ikuomola
