Nigeria has solidified its position as a leading source of international students in the United States, ranking seventh globally and first in Africa, according to the 2024 Open Doors Report on International Education Exchange. This achievement is a testament to the strong educational ties between the US and Nigeria.
Key Highlights of the Report:
- Nigerian Student Enrollment: 20,029 students enrolled in US colleges and universities for the 2023/2024 academic year, marking a 13.5% increase from the previous year.

- Global Ranking: Nigeria ranks seventh globally and first in Africa for international students in the US.
- Record-Breaking International Enrollment: US institutions now host a record-breaking 1,126,690 international students, the highest in history.
- Graduate-Level Studies: More than 55% of Nigerian students in the US are pursuing graduate-level studies, enriching the academic and cultural environment of American universities.
- Fastest-Growing Region: Sub-Saharan Africa remains the fastest-growing region for international education, with a 13% increase in student mobility this year.
The steady growth in Nigerian student enrollment reflects the high demand for US education and the strong ties between the two nations. These connections are further strengthened by educational exchanges, which promote mutual understanding and global collaboration.