UK awards 68 Nigerians Chevening, Commonwealth scholarships
September 10, 2026 12:08 am
A picture illustrating Chevening scholarship
The United Kingdom has awarded 68 Nigerians the Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships to pursue master’s and PhD programmes in the UK in 2026.
This was disclosed at pre-departure ceremonies held in honour of the scholars in Abuja and Lagos on Wednesday.
Of the 68 beneficiaries, 12 received the Chevening Scholarship, while 56 were awarded Commonwealth scholarships.
Speaking at the Abuja ceremony, Chargée d’Affaires at the British High Commission Vicky Seymour congratulated the beneficiaries for clearing the competitive selection process.
Seymour described the scholarships as an investment in both the recipients and Nigeria’s future, urging the scholars to return home and apply the skills acquired to 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 scholars to replicate the achievements of past alumni and leave their own mark on the country’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.
A Chevening scholar, Sarah Nathaniel Yanayork, who will study International Human Rights Law at the University of Essex, described her selection as a validation of years of perseverance.
She said the scholarship would allow her to build global networks and return to Nigeria equipped to champion good governance and inclusive development.
“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.
Also speaking, a Commonwealth scholar, Abubakar Umar, who will study Special Educational Needs at the University of Exeter, said the award was particularly significant to him as a person with hearing impairment.
He described the process as an “inclusive application to an inclusive post-selection process”, adding that it marked the beginning of a journey rooted in resilience.
The UK noted that Nigeria has more than 5,237 Chevening and Commonwealth alumni, many of whom have made notable contributions to national development.
Applications for the 2027/2028 Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships are currently open, with interested candidates advised to visit the official Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarship Commission websites for details.
Nathaniel Shaibu is a correspondent at The PUNCH with three years of professional journalism experience. He covers the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), civil society, religion, and the Ministries of Women Affairs and Youth Development. In addition to his primary beats, Nathaniel also reports on politics, metro, security, and judicial matters, bringing clarity and balance to a wide range of public-interest stories. His work reflects hands-on newsroom experience, strong beat knowledge, and a commitment to accurate, responsible journalism.
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