The Federal Ministry of Education has dismissed reports alleging that a 15-year-old Nigerian student who qualified to represent the country at the International Mathematics Olympiad in China was denied sponsorship.
In a statement released on Sunday via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, @NigEducation, the Ministry described the claims as misleading, stating that no formal request for sponsorship or support was ever received from any recognised institution, association, or individual in relation to the said competition.
According to the Ministry, all official correspondences regarding international academic events are expected to follow due process through recognised educational bodies or institutions.
“The Ministry wishes to clarify that no official request was made to it regarding the participation of any student in the International Mathematics Olympiad. Therefore, the claim that sponsorship was denied is incorrect,” the statement read in part.
It further assured that the Federal Government remains committed to supporting exceptional students who represent Nigeria at credible international competitions, provided proper channels are followed.
The clarification comes after reports surfaced online alleging that the young student’s chance to represent Nigeria at the global event was hindered due to lack of government funding.
