The Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Denis Kingsley, assured that Canada would provide scholarship opportunities for Nigerian citizens accepted to Canadian schools. Speaking at the 7th Canadian Educational Fair which was held in Lagos and Abuja, the High Commissioner explained that new visa rules now allow Nigerian students to work 20 hours a week, while studying, so they can make ends meet. According to Kingsley,
"We help the Nigerian community, but also transfer the knowledge and the capacity that we have. Education is a gift that you can afford to give your children and also get one for yourself. I think that what happens in going to Canada to get your education is that the
institutions are renowned, it is a safe country, the training is an experience and adventure, it fosters relationship."
While one must respect the spin with which Kingsley spoke of the benefits of Nigerians and Canadians working together on education, it must be made clear that this 'relationship' is not altruistic and boils down to dollars and cents (in this case Canadian). Nigerian students are a potential market for Canadian institutions as has been proven by the money they pump into the United Kingdom. Furthermore, it is well known that Canada has for years sought to increase its population via favorable immigration laws. This push for Nigerian students would benefit Canada in that many of those students will likely remain in Canada, using their skills to improve that country.