The Federal Government has officially opened the application portal for the 2026 Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Overseas Scholarship Scheme. This prestigious program offers Nigerian postgraduate students the opportunity to pursue Master’s (MSc) and Doctoral (PhD) degrees in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Malaysia.
The announcement was confirmed on Monday by Dada Olusegun, the Special Adviser to the President on Social Media, via a statement on X (formerly Twitter). The initiative is designed to build indigenous expertise and technical capacity specifically for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
Comprehensive Funding & Benefits
The PTDF scholarship is renowned for being one of the most comprehensive funding packages available to Nigerian students. Successful candidates will receive:
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Full Tuition Coverage and health insurance.
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Travel & Housing: Return flight tickets and a monthly living allowance.
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Research Support: Payment of bench fees where required.
Global Partnerships & The “Split-Site” PhD Model
To ensure scholars have access to world-class research facilities, the PTDF has partnered with top-tier international universities. Notably, PhD applicants destined for the United Kingdom will participate in a “split-site” arrangement. This unique model allows researchers to divide their time between the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies in Kaduna (CPESK) and partner UK institutions, including Robert Gordon University, the University of Portsmouth, and the University of Strathclyde.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
The agency stressed that the selection process is strictly merit-based and highly competitive. Applicants will be judged on academic excellence, professional memberships, and the direct relevance of their chosen field to the energy sector.
Key Requirements:
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Academic Standing: MSc applicants must hold at least a Second Class Lower (2.2) or Second Class Upper (2.1) degree.
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Mandatory Documents: Evidence of NYSC completion and at least five O’Level credits (including English and Mathematics).
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Research Focus: PhD candidates are required to submit a comprehensive research proposal (maximum five pages) detailing their methodology and objectives.
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NIN Verification: All applicants must have a verified National Identity Number (NIN) before applying.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates are directed to apply through the official portal at scholarship.ptdf.gov.ng.
Application Deadline: The portal will remain open until February 27, 2026.
The PTDF warned that any attempt at multiple applications or the submission of forged documents would lead to immediate disqualification and potential legal consequences.