UK invests in 68 Nigerian future leaders through Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships

*The United Kingdom Government awards 68 Nigerians, the prestigious Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships to Nigerians, to study Master’s degrees and PhD programmes in the country in 2026

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

The United Kingdom (UK) Government has awarded 68 Nigerians, the prestigious Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships, to study Master’s degrees and PhD programmes in the European country, in 2026.

The UK Mission in Nigeria organised pre-departure ceremonies in honour of the scholars Tuesday, September 8, 2026, in Abuja, FCT, and Lagos respectively.

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At the pre-departure reception in Abuja, Ms. Vicky Seymour, Chargée d’Affaires, British High Commission (BHC) Abuja, congratulated those who succeeded in securing scholarships through the highly competitive application and interview process.  

ConsumerConnect reports that in 2026, total 12 scholars received the Chevening scholarships, while 56 scholars have been awarded the Commonwealth scholarship so far.

Atinuke Akande-Alegbe, Senior Communications and Public Diplomacy Officer at FCDO/British High Commission, stated Ms. Vicky Seymour, Chargé d’Affaires, British High Commission, Abuja, speaking at the ceremony, said: “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.

“On your return to Nigeria, I know you will go on to do great things, just as your alumni have done before you.”

Seymour noted: “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.”

Sarah Nathaniel Yanayork, a Chevening scholar, studying International Human Rights Law at the University of Essex, in the UK, said: “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.

“This honour is not just a personal milestone; it is fuel for a lifelong dedication to human rights and community transformation.” 

Abubakar Umar, Commonwealth scholar, who will study Special Educational Needs at the University of Exeter, said: “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.”

Umar averred: “From an inclusive application to an inclusive post-selection process.

“A journey of resilience and inclusivity has just begun.”

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 5237 (Commonwealth and Chevening) alumni across both scholarships with very prestigious people impacting and contributing to Nigeria’s development. 

Applications for 2027-2028 Chevening Scholarships are now open at https://www.chevening.org 

Applications for 2027-2028 Commonwealth Scholarships are now open. Details here: https://portal.csccentralonline.org.uk/application.