Sopuruchi Onwuka

The government of the United Kingdom has awarded 85 Nigerians the prestigious Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships to study a wide range of master’s degrees and PhD programmes in the UK in 2025.

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The British High Commission (BHC) stated that 39 scholars and 1 fellow received the Chevening scholarships, while 45 scholars have been awarded the Commonwealth scholarship so far.

According to a statement made available to Oracle Intelligence, a pre-departure ceremony was held in Abuja in the week for scholars based in the environs, while a similar ceremony has been scheduled in September, for scholars in Lagos and nearby cities.

Deputy High Commissioner, Mrs. Gill Lever, who was at the Abuja pre-departure reception, congratulated beneficiaries on securing scholarship through the highly competitive application and interview process.

She said the scholars would be the positive change agents for the country and ambassadors of British values in the country.

“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.”

Oracle Intelligence reports that the 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.

Director Programmes, British Council Nigeria, Chikodi Onyemerela, tasked the beneficiaries to be good ambassadors of Nigeria by positioning to make positive contributions in realizing the country’s broad national developmental aspirations.

“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,”  she said.

Chevening fellow, Tijjanni Mukaddas, who will study at the Oxford Centre of Islamic Studies, commended the UK government on providing opportunities for Nigerian scholars to contribute in shaping policies that transform lives.

“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,” he stated.

A Commonwealth scholar, Cynthia Okoli, who will study at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), said testified that the scholarship would help her develop a network of international professionals for delivering multidisciplinary tasks.

“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,” she stated.