The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, in Nigeria, has advised beneficiaries of its 2026/2027 Foreign Postgraduate Scholarship Programme to uphold academic excellence, maintain exemplary conduct, and steer clear of social vices, particularly drug abuse.
The advice came as they embark on their studies abroad.
Speaking during a pre-departure briefing for the 200 scholarship beneficiaries, the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, described the scholarship scheme as a rare opportunity for young people from the Niger Delta to acquire advanced knowledge and skills that would contribute significantly to the development of the region and Nigeria as a whole.
Ogbuku urged the scholars to serve as worthy ambassadors of the Niger Delta and the country, noting that beneficiaries of previous editions of the programme had distinguished themselves academically.
According to him, more than 30 scholars recorded distinctions during the last academic session, demonstrating the impact and success of the initiative.
He reminded the beneficiaries that the scholarship programme was designed to support serious academic pursuit and should not be viewed as a recreational opportunity.
“This scholarship is not a holiday. Work hard, remember where you are coming from, and ensure that the Niger Delta benefits from the knowledge and experience you acquire,” he said.
The NDDC boss assured the scholars that their allowances would continue to be paid promptly, as has been the practice since the inauguration of the current board and management.
However, he warned that any beneficiary who fail to meet the required academic standards or engage in misconduct could face withdrawal of the scholarship.
Addressing the growing challenge of substance abuse among young people, Ogbuku cautioned the students against drug use and advised them to avoid associations that could jeopardise their future.
“There is a growing problem of drug abuse in our society today. Do not indulge in it and avoid friends who engage in such activities. The country needs young people with sound minds who can provide quality leadership in the future. When you travel overseas, be careful and return home with a sound mind,” he stated.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of Education, Health and Social Services, Dr. Patience Ezugu, described the scholarship scheme as a strategic investment in the future of the Niger Delta.
She noted that the commission had devoted substantial resources to educational advancement, stressing that the programme aimed at developing the human capital needed to drive sustainable growth in the region.
In her closing remarks, the Director of Education, Mrs. Angela Chukwudifu, advised the beneficiaries to safeguard their travel and academic documents and avoid actions that could expose them to legal or academic difficulties while abroad.
The consultant handling the scholarship programme, Godson Ideozu, disclosed that only 200 candidates emerged successful from a highly competitive selection process involving 2,492 applicants who reached the oral interview stage.
Among the successful candidates, Miss Aisosa Margaret from Edo State emerged as the overall best scholar with an impressive cumulative score of 90, she is expected to pursue a postgraduate degree in Advanced Mechanical Engineering at the University of Sheffield in the United Kingdom.
She was closely followed by Mr. Nwokocha Michael from Imo State, who will study Ecological Transition in Paris, France.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the two top-performing scholars expressed gratitude to the NDDC for the life-changing opportunity.
They pledged to excel in their respective fields of study, achieve distinctions, and return home equipped with the knowledge and expertise needed to contribute meaningfully to the development of the Niger Delta region.
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