The Federal Government, through the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has announced the commencement of applications for its Foreign Master’s Postgraduate Scholarship Programme for the 2026/2027 academic session.
The Commission disclosed this in an official notice on Monday, stating that applications opened on March 23, 2026, and will close on April 19, 2026.
According to the NDDC, the scholarship programme is designed to equip young Nigerians from the Niger Delta region with advanced education and professional skills to enhance their participation in local content development and global competitiveness.
To be eligible, applicants must possess a first-class or second-class upper division degree and must not be older than 40 years. Candidates are required to apply online through the Commission’s official website and submit relevant documents, including a passport photograph, Local Government Identification letter, admission letter from a recognised overseas university, academic certificates, and NYSC discharge or exemption certificate.
The selection process will involve multiple stages, beginning with preliminary shortlisting based on academic qualifications and identification documents. Shortlisted applicants will then undergo a computer-based test in Rivers State, where a minimum score of 70 per cent is required to proceed.
Successful candidates will be subjected to further screening and verification through their respective Local Government Areas and Community Development Committees before final selection.
The scholarship, which is fully funded, will cover studies in foreign universities, with funding calculated based on the prevailing exchange rate of the naira. The Commission noted that preference would be given to candidates from oil-producing states, including Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers.
The NDDC added that changes in course or institution after selection will not be permitted, while only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further stages of the process. The Commission also stated that it reserves the right to make the final decision on all selections.
