According to Sonny Echono, the Executive Secretary of Nigeria’s Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), over 137 scholars sponsored abroad by the agency have reportedly absconded and refused to return to the country after completing their higher education programmes.
Echono made this revelation while appearing before the House of Representatives ad hoc committee investigating the alleged mismanagement of N2.3 trillion tertiary education tax by TETFund.
Echono expressed concern over the situation and emphasized that the scholars sponsored by TETFund are required to return to Nigeria upon completing their studies abroad.
He mentioned that TETFund is collaborating with relevant stakeholders to devise stringent and effective measures against those who fail to return, ensuring that Nigerians benefit from their expertise.
The Executive Secretary added that such individuals would be compelled to repay the money expended on their programmes or face being declared persona non grata.
Addressing the issue, Echono highlighted that some sponsored scholars unpatriotically refuse to come back after enjoying the scholarship and acquiring higher degrees.
This has become a major crisis for the agency and the country.
Echono also spoke about the challenges posed by the exchange rate crisis, leading to difficulties in foreign scholarships.
He mentioned that the agency is considering shifting its focus towards local training, collaborating with experienced first-generation universities and other specialized institutions within Nigeria.
This shift is being considered due to the recent exchange rate adjustments, as the allocated funds in naira cannot cover the dollar requirements for foreign training.
Regarding allegations of mismanaging funds, Echono denied the claims and revealed that the federal government owes TETFund N371.3 billion, of which N46 billion has been repaid so far.
He clarified that the agency is working diligently to address financial challenges and ensure efficient utilization of resources.
