68 Nigerians Win 2026 Chevening, Commonwealth Scholarships

The UK Government has awarded 68 Nigerians Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships to pursue master’s and PhD programmes across various fields in the United Kingdom in 2026. The British High Commission disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, saying pre-departure ceremonies were held for the successful scholars in Abuja and Lagos. Of the 68 recipients, 12 were awarded Chevening scholarships, while 56 have so far received Commonwealth scholarships. Chargée d’Affaires of the British High Commission in Abuja, Vicky Seymour, congratulated the scholars, describing their selection as an achievement following a highly competitive application and interview process. She said the UK regarded the scholarships as an investment not only in the scholars but also in Nigeria’s future, expressing confidence that they would return home and contribute meaningfully to the country.

Some of the scholars also spoke about what the opportunity means to them. Chevening scholar Sarah Nathaniel Yanayork, who will study International Human Rights Law at the University of Essex, described her selection as the result of a three-year journey marked by resilience, growth and a commitment to creating change. She said the scholarship would provide an opportunity to build international networks, engage in volunteer activities and return to Nigeria better prepared to promote good governance, human rights and inclusive development. Commonwealth scholar Abubakar Umar, who will study special educational needs at the University of Exeter, described the scholarship as particularly meaningful to him as a person with a hearing impairment. He said his experience reflected a journey towards a more inclusive system, from the application stage through the post-selection process. The British High Commission said Nigeria has a large alumni community from both scholarship programmes, with more than 5,237 alumni across the two schemes.

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