For many Nigerian and African students, the first step to accessing scholarships abroad is obtaining a valid international passport—a document that often feels out of reach due to financial limitations. A Canada-based Nigerian academic, Dr. Olumuyiwa Igbalajobi, has stepped in to bridge this gap with a program that provides funding support for 100 students.
The initiative, which opened applications on December 1, 2024, is funded through voluntary donations and aims to empower young Africans to compete for global opportunities such as study abroad programs, graduate scholarships, and international research placements.
Why Passports Are Crucial for Scholarships and Student Visas
Securing a scholarship often goes hand in hand with applying for a student visa, opening bank accounts abroad, or purchasing international student health insurance—all of which require a valid passport. For many low-income students, this cost barrier delays or even prevents them from applying for fully funded programs.
Dr. Igbalajobi explained:
“In 2025, our goal is to assist more than 100 bright students across Africa in getting their passports. This document is a critical requirement for scholarship applications and global opportunities.”
Expanding Beyond Nigeria
Although the project started in Nigeria, the application portal is now open to students from other African countries who demonstrate academic potential but lack the means to cover the cost of their passports. This expansion increases access to Canadian scholarships, UK Chevening Scholarships, Erasmus+ Programs in Europe, and U.S. Fulbright Fellowships.
These programs often cover tuition fees, living expenses, international flights, and even health coverage, but students still need an e-passport to begin the process.
Proven Track Record of Impact
In just three years, more than 300 students have been supported through the initiative, with beneficiaries now pursuing degrees across multiple continents.
A standout example is Farida Zakariya, who became the first Nigerian to win the prestigious McCall MacBain Scholarship at McGill University in Canada. Stories like hers highlight how a relatively small intervention—the cost of a passport—can lead to life-changing opportunities.
Clarifying the Mission
Dr. Igbalajobi emphasized that the fund is strictly designed for talented students applying for scholarships, not for those simply looking to migrate.
“The mission is clear—we want to help students who are qualified for scholarships but cannot afford the cost of an e-passport,” he said.
This distinction became necessary after he received numerous inquiries from people asking for help with visa or relocation costs.
Public Reactions
The initiative has generated positive feedback online:
- @OlugbengaAdele2: “Well done sir. This seems to have come earlier than in previous years. Thank you for all you do.”
- @OnyedikaOj98518: “Happy to hear this. By God’s grace, I will be a beneficiary.”
How Students Can Apply
Interested applicants can visit the Scholarship Cafe portal, founded by Dr. Igbalajobi, to complete the application process. The portal not only manages the passport sponsorship scheme but also provides resources on:
- Study abroad scholarships for Nigerians and Africans
- Visa application requirements for international students
- Educational loans and financial aid options
- International student health insurance
By combining financial support with scholarship resources, the initiative gives African students a fair chance at competing globally.
📌 Top Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerians & African Students (2025)
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🇨🇦 Canada – Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Covers tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. Open to master’s and PhD students in health, sciences, and social sciences. -
🇬🇧 United Kingdom – Chevening Scholarships
Funded by the UK Government. Covers flights, tuition, and living allowances for one-year master’s programs. -
🇺🇸 United States – Fulbright Foreign Student Program
Full funding for graduate-level study in the U.S. Includes tuition, living stipend, and health insurance. -
🇩🇪 Germany – DAAD Scholarships
For postgraduate students in various fields. Includes monthly stipend, travel allowance, and tuition support. -
🇫🇷 France – Eiffel Excellence Scholarship
For master’s and PhD students. Provides monthly allowance, international travel, and health insurance. -
🌍 Africa – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Partners with universities across Africa and globally. Provides tuition, accommodation, and mentorship.