UK awards Chevening, Commonwealth scholarships to 68 Nigerians

The United Kingdom has awarded scholarships to 68 Nigerians under the Chevening and Commonwealth scholarship programmes 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 total number, 12 scholars received Chevening awards, while 56 received Commonwealth scholarships.

Speaking at the Abuja event, Chargée d’Affaires at the British High Commission, Vicky Seymour, congratulated the beneficiaries for scaling the competitive selection process.

Seymour described the scholarships as an investment in both the individuals and Nigeria’s future, urging the scholars to return home and apply their new skills 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 Yanayork, who will study International Human Rights Law at the University of Essex, described her selection as validation of years of perseverance.

She said the scholarship would serve as a platform 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 held special significance for him as a person with a 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 United Kingdom noted that Nigeria has over 5,237 Chevening and Commonwealth alumni, many of whom have gone on to make 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.