Nigerian student enrolment at United States (U.S.) colleges and universities rose to 20,029 students in 2023/2024, ranking seventh globally and first in Africa, according to the 2024 Open Doors Report on International Education Exchange.

The figure marked a 13.5 percent increase from the previous year, placing Nigeria as Africa’s leading source of international students and 7th globally.

The report, by the U.S. Embassy, Abuja, revealed that US institutions now host a record-breaking 1,126,690 international students, the highest in history.

Nigerian students represent a significant share of this population, known for their academic excellence and commitment to higher education.

More than 55 percent of Nigerian students in the US are pursuing graduate-level studies, enriching the academic and cultural environment of American universities.

“The report reveals that US colleges and universities host a record-breaking 1,126,690 international students this year, marking an all-time high for international enrolment.

“This milestone aligns with the 75th anniversary of the Open Doors Report, the leading benchmark for international educational exchange in the United States.

“Notably, Nigeria, with 20,029 students, reinforces its position as the top sending country from Africa and the seventh largest globally,” the statement said.

The steady growth in Nigerian student enrolment 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, the statement added.

Sub-Saharan Africa remains the fastest-growing region for international education, with a 13 percent increase in student mobility this year, following an 18 percent rise in 2022/2023.

“Sub-Saharan Africa’s student mobility grew by 13 per cent in 2023/24, maintaining its position as the fastest-growing region for the second year, following an 18 per cent increase in 2022/23.

“The influx of Nigerian students is a testament to the robust educational ties between the US and Nigeria,” it added.