Consul-General of the U.S. in Nigeria, Mr Jefferey Hawkins, said no fewer than 7,000 Nigerians were studying in various American universities as foreign students.
The Consul-General confirmed this when he visited Gov. Rauf Aregbesola of the state of Osun in Osogbo, the capital, also commended him for making education a priority.
he said, “we are in Osun to see and feel the culture and tourism of the state, as well as to understand the heritage, belief system and culture of the people of the South-West".
“We appreciate the beautiful scenery and ambience of the Osun Grove, and we hope to repeat this (visit) yearly,” Hawkins said.
The Consul-General, who particularly lauded Aregbesola for his reforms in education, observed that with what was on ground in the state, the governor was a lover of education.
He said the governor had proved that education was a major sector in national and human development by re-structuring the sector in line with best practices in the world.
Hawkins, who said more than 7,000 Nigerian students were in different American universities, said the figure was one of the highest from the African continent.
“This figure is higher than that of any country on the African continent. This shows how governments in this country take education very serious,” he added.
Responding, Aregbesola said his administration would continue to give education the priority it deserves, adding that he had learnt so much from the U.S. example.
Hawkins was in company of some U.S. Consulate officials during the visit to the state for its art and cultural attractions.
