Application Deadline: November 8, 2026
Applications are now open for the 2026/2027 Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Local Postgraduate Scholarship Programme. The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in furtherance of its mandate to promote sustainable human capital development in the Niger Delta Region, invites applications from suitably qualified and interested Niger Delta indigenes for its 2026/2027 Local Postgraduate Scholarship Programme.
The programme is designed to provide opportunities for qualified young people from the Niger Delta Region to acquire advanced knowledge, professional competencies and specialised skills required to enhance their contribution to the socio-economic development of the region and Nigeria at large.
The scholarship also aims to promote academic excellence and professional development in disciplines relevant to the developmental needs of the Niger Delta Region and the Federal Government’s Local Content Programme.
Approved Fields of Study
Applications are invited from candidates with relevant undergraduate qualifications for Master’s degree programmes in the following disciplines:
- Agricultural Sciences
- Architecture
- Engineering
- Environmental Sciences
- Geosciences
- Humanities
- Information Technology
- Law
- Management and Social Sciences
- Medical Sciences
- Education
- Biotechnology/Biomedical Science
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be indigenes of the Niger Delta Region.
- Not be older than 40 years.
- Possess a relevant Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university with a minimum of Second Class Lower Division.
- Applicants with a Higher National Diploma (HND) must possess a minimum of Upper Credit and a relevant Postgraduate Diploma (PGD), where applicable.
- Possess a valid admission letter for a Master’s degree programme from a recognised Nigerian university.
- Possess a valid NYSC Discharge or Exemption Certificate.
- Satisfy all other requirements prescribed by the Commission.
Scholarship Selection Process
The NDDC scholarship selection process involves the following stages:
1. Online Application
Interested candidates must complete and submit their applications through the official NDDC online application portal within the stipulated application period.
2. Preliminary Screening
Applications will be assessed based on approved criteria, including:
- WAEC/NECO results
- Undergraduate academic qualifications
- Relevant postgraduate qualifications, where applicable
- Valid Local Government Identification
- NIN slip
- Other approved eligibility requirements
3. Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Candidates who successfully pass the preliminary screening will be shortlisted for a Computer-Based Test.
The CBT will be conducted at designated centres in:
- Akwa Ibom State
- Edo State
- Rivers State
Applicants must indicate their preferred CBT zone on the registration portal.
4. Minimum CBT Score
Candidates must obtain a minimum score of 70% in the CBT to qualify for further consideration.
Meeting the minimum CBT score does not automatically guarantee a scholarship award.
5. Further Shortlisting
Candidates who meet the prescribed CBT threshold will undergo further shortlisting and may be invited for an oral interview in accordance with the Commission’s approved selection criteria.
6. Final Verification
The final stage involves verification of shortlisted candidates, including:
- Verification of admission and admission status with the respective universities
- Verification of academic credentials and supporting documents
- Verification of Niger Delta indigene status through the relevant Local Government Area
- Verification through the relevant Community Development Committee (CDC), where applicable
Required Application Documents
Applicants must upload clear copies of the following documents:
- Recent passport photograph
- Local Government Identification Letter
- Master’s degree admission letter from a recognised conventional university in Nigeria
- Relevant academic certificates and qualifications
- NYSC Discharge or Exemption Certificate
- Birth Certificate or Valid Statutory Age Declaration
- Any additional documents required by the Commission
Important Information
- Preference will be given to qualified candidates from oil-producing host communities and Local Government Areas, provided they meet the approved eligibility requirements.
- The scholarship application process is free of charge.
- Applicants are advised not to make payments to individuals or organisations in connection with the application, CBT, selection or award process.
- Submission of an application does not constitute an offer of scholarship.
- Only candidates who satisfy the eligibility requirements and approved selection criteria will be considered.
- Deferment of scholarship, change of institution or change of course will not be permitted except where expressly approved by the Commission.
- Applicants must ensure that all submitted information and documents are accurate and verifiable.
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