Abuja (Nigeria): Prof. Saad Bin Dajem, Vice President for Education and Academic Affairs at King Khalid University, has stated that over the last decade, 3,200 Nigerians have graduated from Saudi Arabian universities.
The vice president made this announcement on Monday in Abuja at the Forum of Saudi Universities Alumni in Nigeria and neighbouring countries, which aims to promote sustainable development.
”In Saudi Arabia, there are more than 850 students from Nigeria) studying in Saudi universities. This reflects our growing educational partnership.”
He described Nigerian students as diligent, ambitious, and highly committed to academics.
He reiterated Saudi Arabia’s willingness to admit more Nigerian students across various disciplines, including medicine, engineering, science, education, and religious studies.
”We are proud to welcome more Nigerian students across disciplines; they contribute positively at both personal and national levels.”
He said plans were underway to increase admissions, considering Nigeria’s large population and its regional importance in Africa.
He said that Muslims and non-Muslims alike have been accepted to pursue academic aspirations in Saudi Arabian universities.
Earlier, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, Minister of State for Education, praised the initiative as vital for Nigeria’s development.
” Education, as we know, is the bedrock of progress. The training and exposure you acquired in Saudi institutions have not only equipped you with knowledge, but also instilled in you discipline, global perspective, and a strong sense of service.”
” These qualities are critical to advancing Nigeria’s quest for inclusive and sustainable development.”
She reaffirmed the ministry’s support for initiatives that leverage alum networks to drive national progress.
Dr Muhammad Munir, Secretary of the Alumni, a graduate of the Islamic University of Medina, stated that since returning home, he has been actively contributing to promoting peaceful coexistence between Nigeria’s two major religious groups.
“When you look at development, where there is no peace, it’s very hard to have development.
“We have been encouraging our members to be law-abiding citizens and peacemakers, peace builders and peace keepers and also to make an impact as far as academics are concerned, as far as moral is concerned, as far as even earning a livelihood is concerned.”
He urged Nigerians of all faiths and backgrounds to pursue transformative education for national growth.
Charge d’Affaires of the Saudi Embassy in Nigeria, Mr Saad Bin Fahd Al-Marri, affirmed the need for deeper Saudi-Nigerian collaboration.
He stated that both countries will continue to collaborate in education, cultural exchange, and mutual development.
The event highlighted the power of educational diplomacy and the impact of Saudi alumni in shaping Africa’s future.