The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has officially opened applications for its 2025/2026 Local Master’s Postgraduate Scholarship Programme. The scheme is targeted at qualified indigenes of the Niger Delta region to pursue Master’s degree studies in accredited Nigerian universities.
In a statement released by the Commission, the NDDC emphasised that the scholarship programme aims to strengthen human resource development and empower young people from the region. “This scheme is designed to equip our young people with relevant training and skills, positioning them for effective participation in the Federal Government’s Local Content Programme,” the statement read.
The NDDC added that the scholarship initiative also supports Nigeria’s broader development agenda by promoting academic excellence and professional advancement in key fields of national interest.
Qualified applicants must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in one of the following professional disciplines to be eligible:
1. Agricultural Sciences
2. Architecture
3. Engineering
4. Environmental Sciences
5. Geosciences
6. Humanities
7. Information Technology
8. Law
9. Management & Social Sciences
10. Medical Sciences
Eligibility Criteria:
The Commission noted that only indigenes of the Niger Delta region who are not older than 40 years are eligible to apply. Applicants should have obtained a First Class, Second Class Upper, or Second Class Lower Bachelor’s Degree. Holders of a Higher National Diploma (HND) with a minimum of Upper Credit and a Post Graduate Diploma (PGD) are also eligible.
Selection Process:
The NDDC outlined a strict and transparent selection process for the scholarship programme. The process includes:
1. All interested candidates must apply online through the NDDC website.
2. Candidates will be shortlisted based on their WASSCE/NECO results, undergraduate degree classification, valid Local Government Identification, and other relevant documents.
3. Shortlisted applicants will sit for a CBT organised by the Commission’s consultants. The tests will be conducted at designated centres in Akwa Ibom, Delta, and Rivers States. Candidates are expected to select their preferred centre during application.
4. Candidates must score at least 70% in the CBT to progress to the next stage.
5. Successful candidates will be invited for an oral interview.
6. The final stage involves verification through Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Community Development Committees (CDCs).
The Commission also revealed that preference would be given to candidates from Oil Producing Host Communities and Local Government Areas, provided they meet the approved cut-off mark.
“All applications must be completed online before July 20, 2025. There will be no room for deferment, change of institution, or course,” the NDDC warned.
How to Apply:
Interested applicants should visit the NDDC official website: www.nddc.gov.ng to submit their applications. The following documents must be attached:
1. Recent passport photograph
2. Local Government Identification Letter
3. Post Graduate Admission Letter from any recognised Nigerian university
4. Relevant academic degrees
5. NYSC Discharge or Exemption Certificate
Once the application is successfully submitted, an acknowledgment slip with a registration number will be generated. Applicants are advised to print and keep this for future reference.
Shortlisted candidates will be announced on the NDDC website and invited for the Computer-Based Test.
The Commission stressed that no further communication will be made with candidates who are not shortlisted at any stage.
This scholarship programme, according to the NDDC, reflects its ongoing commitment to building a skilled, competitive workforce within the Niger Delta region while enhancing opportunities for professional development across Nigeria.