Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), played host to a significant diplomatic and academic engagement during the 6th edition of its Special Lecture Series titled “Educational Opportunities within the Framework of Portugal–Nigeria Bilateral Relations.”
The event was headlined by the Ambassador of the Republic of Portugal to Nigeria, Paulo Martins Santos, who delivered the keynote lecture.
In his address, Ambassador Santos underscored Portugal’s commitment to strengthening educational collaborations with Nigeria, acknowledging both challenges and opportunities that lie within the partnership. While making it clear that Portugal is not in competition with global powers like the United States, he emphasized that his country has established a unique presence on the African continent, especially in education.
“We are not competing with the United States. Our approach is different. We are ready to adapt, particularly in education,” he said. “We recognize that our education system may not be perfect, especially due to language barriers. However, Portugal remains a top destination for African students, despite our limited resources as a small country.”
The ambassador highlighted the importance of opening up educational pathways for non-Portuguese-speaking African nations. He also addressed the broader issue of African-European migration, noting that demographic decline in Europe has led to a greater acceptance of migration.
“Most people in Europe now understand that migration is not only acceptable but necessary,” he said. “But it must be done through legal and secure channels to avoid the dangers posed by scammers and human traffickers.”
In recognition of his efforts and commitment to advancing European studies in Nigeria, the Vice Chancellor of NSUK, Professor Saadatu Hassan Liman, presented Ambassador Santos with an Award of Recognition. The Vice Chancellor lauded the ambassador’s visit as a milestone in the university’s pursuit of global partnerships.
The Registrar of the university, while giving the vote of thanks, encouraged Portugal to expand its educational outreach to students of NSUK. He described the university’s Institute of European Studies as a strategic bridge for academic cooperation between Nigeria and Portugal.
Speaking to journalists after the event, Ambassador Santos expressed admiration for the university’s efforts and potential. “My visit to NSUK has opened my eyes to the remarkable work being done here. The Institute of European Studies is a major driver of our visit and future collaborations,” he remarked.
Professor Liman also reaffirmed the university’s commitment to strengthening its international profile. “NSUK stands to benefit immensely through partnerships and cross-cultural learning platforms established via the Institute,” she stated.
The lecture series reaffirmed NSUK’s positioning as a hub for global academic dialogue and strategic bilateral engagement, particularly within the context of Africa–Europe relations.
