NDDC Awards 600 Postgraduate Scholarships to Boost Human Capital Development in the Niger Delta

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has awarded postgraduate scholarships to 600 outstanding students under its 2025/2026 Local Postgraduate Scholarship Programme, aimed at promoting human capital development and sustainable growth in the Niger Delta region.

During the official award presentation ceremony in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to education as a tool for regional transformation. He explained that the scholarship programme is part of NDDC’s long-term strategy to empower the youth through quality education, innovation, and skill acquisition.

Investing in Education for Regional Growth

Speaking at the event, Dr. Ogbuku described education as the most powerful instrument for transforming the fortunes of the Niger Delta. He encouraged the awardees to remain dedicated to their studies, reminding them that their success reflects the collective hope of millions of people in the region.

“You are the torchbearers of transformation,” he said. “Your education is not just for you but for the millions who look up to you for hope. Every lecture you attend and every solution you provide is a step toward improving our communities.”

The Managing Director, joined by Executive Director of Corporate Services, Ifedayo Abegunde, and Bayelsa State representative on the NDDC Board, Senator Dimaro Denyanbofa, presented the scholarship letters to the recipients.

Ogbuku also revealed that 32 previous NDDC scholars graduated with distinction from Coventry University this year, underscoring the commission’s ongoing impact on educational excellence.

Transparent Selection Process and Merit-Based Awards

In a statement released by the NDDC Director of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, it was disclosed that 46,240 applicants competed for the scholarship, but only 600 candidates were selected through a transparent and competitive electronic examination process.

Dr. George Uzonwanne, the NDDC Director of Education, Health, and Social Services, emphasized the credibility of the selection process. He congratulated the successful candidates and noted that the programme represents NDDC’s investment in intellectual capacity that will shape the future of the region.

“Through initiatives like the NDDC Local Scholarship Programme, we are investing in the minds that will drive sustainable development in the Niger Delta,” Uzonwanne said. “By equipping our youth with advanced knowledge in engineering, environmental sciences, technology, management sciences, and the humanities, we are preparing them to solve the region’s unique challenges.”

Focus on Local Education and Regional Impact

Also speaking at the event, NDDC Director of Education, Dr. Angela Chukwudifu, highlighted that the new scholarship structure focuses on local education. She explained that this ensures beneficiaries stay connected to the realities, challenges, and opportunities within the Niger Delta, fostering a sense of responsibility and community development.

According to her, the programme aims to build a generation of professionals who are not only educated but are also committed to contributing to regional growth and innovation.

Beneficiaries Express Gratitude and Commitment

One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Reginald Omubo-Pepple, who emerged as the best-performing candidate, expressed deep appreciation to NDDC for the life-changing opportunity. He pledged that the scholarship recipients would work hard, uphold integrity, and contribute positively to the socio-economic development of the Niger Delta after their studies.

He said, “This opportunity will enable us to enhance our education, develop our skills, and give back to our communities. We are grateful to NDDC for investing in our future.”

Strengthening the Niger Delta Through Education

The NDDC Local Postgraduate Scholarship Programme remains one of the most impactful educational empowerment schemes in Nigeria. It provides students with the financial support needed to pursue advanced degrees in fields that contribute directly to national and regional development.

By focusing on human capital investment, the commission is strategically addressing unemployment, poverty, and underdevelopment in the Niger Delta. Through these efforts, NDDC continues to play a vital role in driving inclusive education, sustainable development, and economic empowerment in Nigeria.