The United Kingdom (UK) government has awarded 85 outstanding Nigerian students the prestigious Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships to study a wide range of master’s degrees and Ph.D programmes in the UK in 2025.
In a significant boost to educational and diplomatic ties between the two countries, this year, 39 scholars and one fellow received the Chevening scholarships, while 45 scholars were awarded the Commonwealth scholarship.
A pre-departure ceremony was held on Wednesday, in Abuja for scholars based in the FCT, and environs, while a similar ceremony will be held in Lagos in September, for scholars in Lagos and nearby cities.
Gill Lever, the British deputy high commissioner, speaking at the Abuja pre-departure reception, congratulated beneficiaries who succeeded in securing a scholarship through the highly competitive application and interview process.
“We are proud to see another batch of scholars depart over the next few weeks for the UK knowing that they will come back and add to a very strong Chevening network in Nigeria.
“They will return with a lasting positive disposition towards the UK, acting as ambassadors by sharing their understanding of systems, policies, and life in the UK– and then bringing those experiences back to Nigeria and doing great things while creating a positive change in this country and the world,” Lever said.
Chikodi Onyemerela, the director of programmes at the British Council, Nigeria, speaking at the reception said, “As you leave for the United Kingdom for further studies, you carry with you not only your personal aspirations but also the hopes of your communities and the promise of contributing to Nigeria’s future.
“We are confident that the knowledge, skills, and networks you will acquire in the UK will return as seeds of innovation, leadership, and progress for our nation, particularly, at this phase of its development.”
Tijjanni Mukaddas, a Chevening fellow, who will study at the Oxford Centre of Islamic Studies, said, “I feel truly humbled and grateful that with over 18 million Nigerian children denied education, the Chevening Fellowship enables me to craft impactful policies that will integrate them into education. It’s a dream come true; I’m honoured to embark on this journey at Oxford University.”
Cynthia Okoli, a Commonwealth scholar, who will study at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), in her speech said, “I look forward to developing my interpersonal and professional skills, as well as building lasting friendships and networks that cut across disciplines and cultures through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) events and interactions with classmates and faculties from both schools.
“These experiences will broaden my perspective and strengthen my ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary settings.”
Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships are awarded to individuals who demonstrate intellectual ability, leadership potential and a commitment to development of their home country.
Nigeria has a huge alumni base with over 4500 (3000 Commonwealth and 1500 Chevening) alumni across both scholarships with very prestigious people impacting and contributing to Nigeria’s development.
Charles Ogwo, Head, Education Desk at BusinessDay Media is a seasoned proactive journalist with over a decade of reportage experience.
