The United Kingdom Government has awarded prestigious Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships to 68 Nigerians to pursue master’s and PhD programmes in various fields in the UK.
The scholars were honoured at pre-departure ceremonies held in Abuja and Lagos on Tuesday, ahead of their academic programmes in the 2026/2027 session.
Of the 68 beneficiaries, 12 received the highly competitive Chevening scholarships, while 56 Nigerians have so far been awarded Commonwealth scholarships.
Speaking at the pre-departure reception in Abuja, Chargée d’Affaires of the British High Commission, Ms. Vicky Seymour, congratulated the scholars on successfully navigating the rigorous application and interview processes.
Seymour described the scholarship programmes as an investment not only in the beneficiaries but also in Nigeria’s future, urging them to return home and apply the knowledge and experience gained in the UK to national development.
“Chevening and Commonwealth Scholars have bright futures – and we see your time in the UK as not only as an investment in you as individuals, but also in the future of Nigeria,” she said.
She expressed confidence that the scholars would emulate previous alumni who had made significant contributions to Nigeria after completing their studies.
“On your return to Nigeria, I know you will go on to do great things, just as your alumni have done before you,” Seymour said.
She urged the scholars to bring their experiences back to Nigeria and use them to contribute to 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.
One of the Chevening scholars, Sarah Nathaniel Yanayork, who will study International Human Rights Law at the University of Essex, described her selection as the culmination of years of resilience and commitment to social change.
Yanayork said the scholarship would provide her with an opportunity to build international networks, engage in volunteerism and deepen her capacity 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,” she said.
She added that the scholarship was “not just a personal milestone” but would strengthen her commitment to human rights and community transformation.
Also speaking, Commonwealth scholar Abubakar Umar, who will study Special Educational Needs at the University of Exeter, described the award as particularly significant to him as a person with hearing impairment.
Umar said his experience of the scholarship process demonstrated the importance of creating inclusive systems and opportunities for people with disabilities.
“As a person with a hearing impairment, this is very special for me. Being a Commonwealth Scholar is beyond just a scholarship; it is a journey to an inclusive system – the UK standard,” he said.
He described the opportunity as the beginning of “a journey of resilience and inclusivity,” expressing optimism about contributing to a more inclusive society.
