82 Nigerian Students Win Prestigious UK Scholarships for 2024: Chevening and Commonwealth Scholars Set to Shine

• Aug 30, 2024

Eighty-two Nigerian students have been awarded the highly prestigious Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships by the British Government, allowing them to pursue master’s and PhD programs in the United Kingdom for the 2024 academic year. This recognition highlights Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to educational excellence and the fostering of global leadership.

In a statement released on Friday by the British High Commission in Abuja, Senior Communications and Public Diplomacy Officer, Atinuke Akande-Alegbe, confirmed that 32 Nigerians were selected for the Chevening scholarships, while 50 received the Commonwealth scholarships. These scholarships, known for their rigorous and competitive selection processes, are awarded to individuals who demonstrate exceptional intellectual ability, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to the development of their home country.

The selection process culminated in a pre-departure ceremony held on Thursday in Abuja for scholars from the capital and surrounding regions. A similar event is scheduled to take place in Lagos next week, where Deputy Head of Mission, Abby Bernard, will host scholars from Lagos and nearby cities.

During the Abuja ceremony, British Deputy High Commissioner, Gill Lever, congratulated the scholars and emphasized the UK’s ongoing support for Nigeria’s educational development. “The UK continues to support the educational development of Nigerians and remains transparent and inclusive in the selection process across the board,” she stated. Lever also encouraged the recipients to excel in their studies, serve as outstanding ambassadors for Nigeria, and use their experiences abroad to drive positive change upon their return.

The Director of Operations at the British Council Nigeria, Idowu Akintade, echoed this sentiment, urging the scholars to build strong networks and leverage their newfound knowledge to contribute to Nigeria’s development priorities. “We hope the skills and knowledge you gain from this scholarship opportunity prepare you to make a positive impact on Nigeria’s development priorities. I encourage you all to build a strong network and continue to be great ambassadors of the prestigious Commonwealth and Chevening Scholarships,” Akintade noted.

Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships are widely regarded as among the most prestigious international awards. They are granted to individuals who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership capabilities, and a commitment to making a difference in their home countries. Nigeria boasts a significant alumni base, with over 4,500 scholars having benefitted from these scholarships—3,000 from the Commonwealth program and 1,500 from Chevening—many of whom have gone on to make substantial contributions to Nigeria’s development.

As these 82 new scholars prepare to embark on their academic journeys in the UK, they carry with them the hopes and expectations of not only their families and communities but also the entire nation. Their success will undoubtedly further strengthen the ties between Nigeria and the UK, contributing to a brighter future for both countries.