The United Kingdom Government has awarded 68 Nigerians the 2026 Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships to pursue master’s and PhD programmes at various universities across the UK.
The British High Commission disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, noting that pre-departure ceremonies were organised for the successful scholars in Abuja and Lagos.
Of the 68 beneficiaries, 12 were selected for the Chevening Scholarship, while 56 received Commonwealth Scholarships.
Chargée d’Affaires of the British High Commission in Abuja, Ms Vicky Seymour, congratulated the scholars on their success in the highly competitive selection process.
She said the scholarships represented an investment not only in the beneficiaries but also in Nigeria’s future, expressing confidence that they would return home with valuable knowledge and experience.
“Chevening and Commonwealth Scholars have bright futures, and we see their time in the UK not only as an investment in them as individuals but also in the future of Nigeria,” Seymour said.
She urged the scholars to make the most of their studies and bring their experiences back to Nigeria to contribute to national development.
One of the Chevening scholars, Sarah Nathaniel Yanayork, who will study International Human Rights Law at the University of Essex, described her selection as a major achievement after three years of perseverance and personal growth.
Yanayork said the scholarship would provide her with an opportunity to expand her global network, participate in volunteer activities and gain knowledge that would help her promote good governance and inclusive development in Nigeria.
“This honour is not just a personal milestone; it is fuel for a lifelong dedication to human rights and community transformation,” she said.
Similarly, Commonwealth scholar Abubakar Umar, who will study Special Educational Needs at the University of Exeter, described the award as particularly meaningful because he lives with a hearing impairment.
Umar said his experience demonstrated the importance of creating inclusive opportunities and described the scholarship as the beginning of a journey towards promoting a more inclusive education system.
“A journey of resilience and inclusivity has just begun,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria has more than 5,237 alumni from the Chevening and Commonwealth scholarship programmes.
Applications for the 2027/2028 Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships are currently open, with prospective applicants able to apply through the respective official scholarship platforms.
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