How Nigerian Celebrities Studied Abroad: What You Can Learn & How to Get Scholarships Too

“Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” – Malcolm X

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

In the vibrant world of Nigerian entertainment, talent is abundant — but what sets many celebrities apart is their international exposure, especially in education. Many Nigerian stars have taken the bold step of studying abroad, gaining not just academic knowledge but also a global worldview that has shaped their creativity and success.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore:

• Nigerian celebrities who studied abroad,

• The benefits of international education,

• How you can also study abroad through scholarships,

• A detailed list of fully funded opportunities, and

• Step-by-step guidance to help you get started.

Nigerian Celebrities Who Studied Abroad

1. Burna Boy – Media Technology (UK)

Grammy-winning Afro-fusion artist Burna Boy studied Media Technology at the University of Sussex in the UK. That exposure contributed to his ability to blend Afrobeat with global genres such as reggae and dancehall.

2. Temi Otedola – Art History (UK)

Temi, daughter of billionaire Femi Otedola, studied Art History at University College London. Her education has influenced her sense of style and content creation as a fashion blogger and actress.

3. Denrele Edun – Multicultural Background (Germany/Nigeria)

Born in Germany, Denrele returned to Nigeria and later studied English Education at the University of Lagos. His dual cultural experience has shaped his unique entertainment personality.

4. Omoni Oboli – Filmmaking (USA)

Award-winning actress and director Omoni Oboli studied filmmaking at the New York Film Academy, a decision that helped her produce top Nollywood films like The First Lady and Wives on Strike.

5. Folu Storms – Law & Media (UK)

A graduate of Aberystwyth University and the University of Bristol, Folu’s legal background supports her strong presence as a media host, voice-over artist, and actress.

6. Uche Odoh – Film Production (Canada & UK)

Uche Odoh studied Film Production at Vancouver Film School and TV Production at MetFilm School, London. Her global training has shaped her storytelling and cinematography skills.

7. Ini Dima-Okojie – Acting (USA)

Former banker Ini Dima-Okojie switched careers and studied acting at New York Film Academy. She’s now featured in major Netflix productions, proving how studying abroad can lead to a rewarding creative career.

8. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie – Literature (USA)

While not in the entertainment space, author Chimamanda Adichie is a global icon who studied at Eastern Connecticut State University, and earned degrees from Johns Hopkins University and Yale University. Her stories, rooted in Nigerian identity, have resonated globally.

Why Celebrities Study Abroad – and Why You Should Too

Here are reasons why Nigerian celebrities opt for international education — and why it may work for you as well:

1. Global Opportunities

Studying abroad connects students to a global network. Collaborating with international classmates often results in lifelong professional and personal connections.

2. Advanced Facilities & Research

Top universities in the UK, US, Canada, and Europe offer advanced labs, libraries, and innovation centers, pushing students to think critically and innovate.

3. Creative Development

Many Nigerian celebrities use study-abroad experiences to explore different cultures, artistic styles, and social dynamics, fueling their creativity.

4. Higher Employability

An international degree sets you apart in the job market. Employers view global education as proof of adaptability, confidence, and resilience.

How You Can Study Abroad Like These Celebs – Without Spending a Fortune

The Good News: You don’t have to be rich or famous.

Every year, thousands of Nigerians receive fully funded international scholarships. These scholarships cover:

• Tuition Fees

• Living Expenses

• Flight Tickets

• Visa Support

• Monthly Allowance

Let’s look at the best ones available for Nigerians today.

Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships for Nigerians

1. Chevening Scholarships (UK)

The Chevening Scholarship is the UK government’s international awards program aimed at developing global leaders. Funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and partner organizations, Chevening offers fully-funded scholarships to pursue a one-year master’s degree in the UK. The program selects individuals with strong academic backgrounds, leadership potential, and a commitment to driving positive change in their home countries. Beyond academic excellence, Chevening emphasizes networking, cultural exchange, and building lasting relationships between scholars and the UK.

Features:

• Full coverage of tuition fees.

• Monthly living allowance.

• Travel costs to and from the UK.

• Arrival and departure allowances.

• Cost of one visa application.

• Access to exclusive networking events and opportunities.

2. Commonwealth Shared Scholarships (UK)

The Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) is an international program under which Commonwealth governments offer scholarships and fellowships to citizens of other Commonwealth countries. Established in 1959, the scheme aims to support individuals who could not otherwise afford to study in the UK, enabling them to gain the knowledge and skills necessary for sustainable development. The scholarships are intended for students who demonstrate academic excellence and have the potential to contribute to the development of their home countries.

Features:

• Covers tuition fees, airfare, and living expenses.

• Available for master’s and PhD programs.

• Focus on development-related courses.

• Opportunities to study at various UK universities.

3. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a wide range of scholarships to international students, including Nigerians, to study in Germany. These scholarships are available for various levels of study, including master’s and doctoral programs, and cover a broad spectrum of academic disciplines. DAAD aims to promote international academic exchange and foster global cooperation in education and research.

Features:

• Monthly stipend to cover living expenses.

• Health insurance coverage.

• Travel allowance.

• Funding for language courses, if necessary.

• Support for family members accompanying the scholar.

4. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)

The Fulbright Program is the U.S. government’s flagship international educational exchange program, designed to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and other countries. The Fulbright Foreign Student Program enables graduate students, young professionals, and artists from abroad to study and conduct research in the United States. The program operates in more than 160 countries worldwide, including Nigeria.

Features:

• Tuition and fees coverage.

• Monthly living stipend.

• Health insurance.

• Round-trip airfare.

• Opportunities for cultural exchange and networking.

5. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters (EU)

The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD) are prestigious, integrated, international study programs jointly delivered by a consortium of higher education institutions. These programs offer scholarships to the best student candidates worldwide, including Nigerians, to pursue master’s degrees in Europe. The aim is to enhance the quality of higher education through scholarships and academic cooperation between Europe and the rest of the world.

Features:

• Full tuition fee coverage.

• Monthly subsistence allowance.

• Travel and installation costs.

• Opportunity to study in at least two different European countries.

• Joint or multiple degrees awarded upon completion

6. Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship is a highly competitive full-cost scholarship awarded to outstanding applicants from countries outside the UK to pursue a full-time postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge. Established in 2000 by a donation from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the program aims to build a global network of future leaders committed to improving the lives of others. gatescambridge.org

Features:

• Covers the full cost of studying at Cambridge, including tuition fees and maintenance allowance.

• Provides additional discretionary funding for academic development, family allowance, and fieldwork.

• Access to a global network of Gates Cambridge Scholars and alumni.

• Opportunities for personal and professional development.

7. Chinese Government Scholarships (China)

The Chinese Government Scholarship (CGS) program, administered by the China Scholarship Council (CSC), offers full and partial scholarships to international students, including Nigerians, to study in China. The scholarships are available for undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and non-degree programs across various disciplines. The aim is to promote mutual understanding and friendship between China and other countries.

Features:

• Tuition fee waiver.

• Free on-campus accommodation.

• Monthly living allowance.

• Comprehensive medical insurance.

• Opportunities to study in top Chinese universities.

8. MEXT Scholarship (Japan)

The Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship program offers scholarships to international students, including Nigerians, who wish to study at Japanese universities as undergraduate or research students. The program aims to foster human resources who will become bridges of friendship between Japan and their home countries through study in Japan.

• Fully funded by the Japanese government.

• No IELTS required (TOEFL may be accepted).

• Covers all education costs.
  Official site

9. Australian Awards Scholarships (Australia)

The Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS), administered by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), are prestigious, long-term development awards. These scholarships are offered to individuals from developing countries, particularly those located in the Indo-Pacific region — but select African nations including Nigeria are also eligible. The program aims to contribute to the long-term development needs of Australia’s partner countries by providing opportunities for people to undertake full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study at participating Australian universities and Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions.

What makes the AAS program unique is its developmental purpose — it not only seeks academic excellence but also aims to empower students to contribute meaningfully to the growth of their home countries. After completion of the study, awardees are required to return to their home countries for a minimum of two years to apply the knowledge and skills gained.

Features:

• ✦ Full tuition fee coverage.

• ✦ Return airfare (economy class).

• ✦ Establishment allowance (to assist with accommodation and study materials).

• ✦ Contribution to Living Expenses (CLE) — generous monthly stipend.

• ✦ Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

• ✦ Introductory Academic Program (IAP) before the formal course begins.

• ✦ Supplementary academic support as needed.

• ✦ Fieldwork allowance for research students.

Tip: Prioritize development-focused courses like Public Policy, Education, Agriculture, and Health for a stronger application fit.

10. Orange Knowledge Programme (Netherlands)

The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program is a global initiative that provides academically talented but economically disadvantaged young people from Africa — especially Nigeria — with access to quality and transformative education. It’s not limited to one country or region. Instead, it partners with top universities in Africa, North America, and Europe including:

• University of Toronto (Canada)

• University of Edinburgh (UK)

• American University of Beirut (Lebanon)

• Sciences Po (France)

• Ashesi University (Ghana)

• University of Pretoria (South Africa)

The program goes beyond scholarships. It includes leadership development, entrepreneurial training, mentorship, and life skills development to equip scholars with tools to lead change in their communities.

Features:

• ✦ Full tuition coverage at partner institutions.

• ✦ Monthly living stipends.

• ✦ Books and academic materials.

• ✦ Airfare and visa fees.

• ✦ Academic and psychological support throughout study.

• ✦ Career support and mentoring.

• ✦ Extensive alumni network for lifelong development.

Tip: Strong emphasis is placed on community impact, leadership potential, and a proven record of helping others despite hardship.

From prestigious UK scholarships like Chevening and Commonwealth, to continent-spanning programs like Erasmus Mundus and the MasterCard Foundation, Nigerian students have numerous opportunities to study abroad on fully funded programs. Each of these scholarships not only covers tuition and living expenses but also helps build leadership capacity and global networks.

To convert this knowledge into action:

 Here’s what you can do:

• Start Early: Begin preparing at least 6–12 months in advance.

• Gather Strong Documents: Academic transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statements, and proof of leadership or volunteer experience are key.

• Practice for Interviews: Most scholarships have interviews. Confidence, clarity, and consistency matter.

• Target Development-Focused Fields: Courses aligned with national or global development goals are often favored.

• Bookmark Opportunities: Stay updated on deadlines using Google Calendar or apps like Trello or Notion.

By choosing any of these ten powerful scholarships and preparing intentionally, you could soon be studying in some of the world’s most respected institutions — without spending a kobo.

Step-by-Step Guide to Winning a Scholarship

Step 1: Identify the Right Program

Pick a course aligned with your background and future goals. Avoid generic or unrelated fields.

Step 2: Prepare Early

Start preparing 6–12 months in advance. Most scholarships open once a year.

Step 3: Pass Language Tests

Take IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo English Test, depending on the program.

Step 4: Craft a Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)

Tell your story. Explain why you’re a strong candidate, your goals, and how the scholarship will help.

Step 5: Secure Great References

Ask lecturers, employers, or mentors to write recommendation letters that speak to your strengths.

Step 6: Apply Before the Deadline

Don’t wait until the last minute. Errors or delays can disqualify you.

Sample Personal Statement Opening

“Growing up in Nigeria, I was fascinated by how creative expression could inspire change. As I pursued my undergraduate degree in Mass Communication, I knew I wanted to expand my knowledge globally. This is why I am applying for the Chevening Scholarship — not just to study in the UK, but to become a voice for African narratives on a global scale.”

Bonus Tips to Improve Your Application

• Customize each application to the university/scholarship.

• Avoid plagiarism in your essays or SOP.

• Join online communities like Reddit, LinkedIn groups, and Facebook forums for real-time support.

• Attend webinars by embassies or educational agencies — they often announce scholarship opportunities first.

The path to international education is not limited to celebrities or the wealthy. From Burna Boy to Chimamanda, their stories show us that the right mindset, opportunities, and preparation can take you anywhere in the world.

Use this article as your guide. Bookmark it. Share it. Apply what you’ve learned.

And most importantly, believe in your journey — because the next global Nigerian success story might just be you.