The study examined Nigerian graduate students' perceptions of factors that are related to their decision to return or not to return to Nigeria after completion of their graduate studies in the United States. A questionnaire was developed asking questions related to demographic variables, attitudes and plans upon completion. A 36.8% return (92 of 250) was collected from Nigerian students in the tri-state area of Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia
The results showed that 47% of those returning questionnaires plan to remain temporarily in the United States after completing their studies and 13% said that they would remain in the United States permanently after completion of their studies. The factors that are related to the decision to return or not to return are multiple. Economic factors are the most often mentioned, followed by perceptions of one's ethnic status in Nigeria. Age, degree sought, visa status and field of study are also related to the decision as to whether or not to return.
On the whole, the study confirmed many research findings previously reported. For instance, those who plan to leave immediately placed emphasis on family ties in Nigeria and those who plan to remain in the United States either temporarily or permanently tend to place more emphasis on economic factors.
The study breaks new ground by comparing the perceptions and plans of the three major ethnic groups in Nigeria. Each of the three ethnic groups were found to have different reasons for returning or not returning after completion of their studies in the United States. Certain ethnic groups, for instance, felt that they would not have access to appropriate job opportunities in Nigeria because of the domination of other ethnic groups.
