The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has awarded postgraduate scholarships to 600 successful candidates under its 2025/2026 Local Postgraduate Scholarship Programme, aimed at boosting human capital development in the region.
Presenting the award letters to beneficiaries at a ceremony in Port Harcourt, NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, said the initiative reflects the Commission’s renewed commitment to building local expertise to drive regional growth.
Ogbuku, supported by other board members and directors, including Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde and Senator Dimaro Denyanbofa, charged the beneficiaries to be worthy ambassadors of the Niger Delta.
“You are the torchbearers of transformation. Your education is not just for you but for the millions who look up to you for hope. Every lecture you attend and every paper you write is a step towards transforming our communities,” Ogbuku told the scholars.
He disclosed that 32 previous beneficiaries graduated with distinction from Coventry University this year, a development he described as proof of the programme’s impact.
The NDDC Director of Education, Health and Social Services, Dr. George Uzonwanne, said the 600 scholars were selected from 46,240 applicants through a transparent and competitive online examination.
“Through initiatives like the NDDC Local Scholarship Programme, we are investing in minds that will shape the Niger Delta’s tomorrow,” he said.
Also speaking, Dr. Angela Chukwudifu, NDDC Director of Education, emphasized that the focus on local universities was deliberate to keep scholars connected to the realities and challenges of their environment.
“By equipping our youth with advanced knowledge in engineering, environmental sciences, technology, humanities, and management, we empower them to tackle our region’s unique challenges,” she added.
The best-performing candidate, Mr. Reginald Omubo-Pepple, who spoke on behalf of the awardees, thanked the NDDC for the opportunity and promised that they would uphold excellence and contribute meaningfully to the region’s development.
