The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has advised successful candidates of its 2026/2027 Foreign Postgraduate Scholarship Programme to remain focused on academic excellence, uphold good conduct, and steer clear of social vices such as drug abuse while studying overseas.
The Managing Director of the NDDC, Samuel Ogbuku, gave the charge during a pre-departure briefing held in Port Harcourt for 200 selected scholarship beneficiaries.
He emphasized that the scholarship presents a valuable opportunity for the recipients to gain advanced knowledge and skills that should ultimately contribute to the development of the Niger Delta region and Nigeria at large. He also encouraged them to represent their communities and the country positively while abroad.
Ogbuku noted that previous beneficiaries of the programme performed impressively, with more than 30 students earning distinctions in the last academic session. He urged the new scholars to remain disciplined, stay committed to their studies, and avoid distractions that could affect their academic performance.
He further assured the students that their allowances would be paid promptly, but warned that any participant who fails to meet academic or behavioural expectations risks losing the scholarship.
According to him, the programme is a serious academic commitment, not a leisure opportunity, stressing the importance of discipline, hard work, and responsibility.
He also strongly cautioned against drug abuse, describing it as a destructive habit that threatens both individual futures and societal development. He advised the scholars to maintain healthy associations and return with clear minds ready to contribute meaningfully to society.
Other officials from the commission described the scholarship scheme as a long-term investment in human capital development aimed at strengthening the future of the Niger Delta region.
The programme consultant revealed that 200 candidates were selected from 2,492 applicants who participated in the final interview stage. Miss Aisosa Margaret from Edo State emerged as the top performer with a score of 90 and will study Advanced Mechanical Engineering at the University of Sheffield, while Mr Nwokocha Michael from Imo State will study Ecological Transition in Paris, France.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, the top scholars expressed gratitude to the commission and pledged to excel in their studies and make their region proud.
