The United Kingdom has selected 68 Nigerians for the 2026 Chevening and Commonwealth scholarship programmes to undertake master’s and PhD studies in the country.
The beneficiaries were honoured at pre-departure ceremonies held in Abuja and Lagos on Wednesday.
Of the 68 scholars, 12 were awarded Chevening scholarships, while 56 received Commonwealth scholarships.
Speaking at the Abuja ceremony, the Chargée d’Affaires at the British High Commission, Vicky Seymour, congratulated the scholars for emerging from the highly competitive selection process.
Seymour said the scholarship programmes represented an investment not only in the beneficiaries but also in Nigeria’s future, urging them to return home and deploy the knowledge and experience gained abroad toward national development.
She said, “Chevening and Commonwealth Scholars have bright futures, and we see your time in the UK not only as an investment in you as individuals, but also in the future of Nigeria.”
She added that she expected the new scholars to build on the achievements of previous beneficiaries and make meaningful contributions to Nigeria’s development.
“It is therefore my hope that you too will bring these experiences back to Nigeria and use them to achieve remarkable things for your country and put your own mark on the future of this great nation,” she added.
One of the Chevening scholars, Sarah Yanayork, who is set to study International Human Rights Law at the University of Essex, said her selection represented the culmination of years of perseverance.
Yanayork said the scholarship would provide an opportunity to establish international connections while equipping her with the skills needed to contribute to good governance and inclusive development in Nigeria.
“Being selected as a Chevening Scholar is the profound validation of a three-year journey marked by resilience, growth, and an unwavering commitment to change.
“Beyond the academics, Chevening is a call to action, a platform to build global networks, immerse myself in volunteerism, and return to Nigeria fully prepared to champion good governance and inclusive development,” she said.
Similarly, a Commonwealth scholar, Abubakar Umar, who will study Special Educational Needs at the University of Exeter, described the award as particularly significant because he has a hearing impairment.
Umar described the scholarship process as an “inclusive application to an inclusive post-selection process”, saying the opportunity marked the beginning of a new journey shaped by resilience.
The British government noted that Nigeria has produced more than 5,237 Chevening and Commonwealth alumni, many of whom have made significant contributions to national development.
Applications for the 2027/2028 Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships are currently open, with prospective applicants advised to consult the official scholarship websites for eligibility requirements and application details.
