'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The British High Commission in Nigeria has honored 191 Nigerian scholars who recently completed their master’s, PhD, and fellowship programmes in the United Kingdom. The scholars, comprising 44 Chevening and 147 Commonwealth recipients, were celebrated at welcome ceremonies held in Abuja on February 19 and Lagos on February 20. The events marked the successful conclusion of their transformative academic journeys under two of the UK Government’s most prestigious scholarship programmes.
The Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships are awarded annually to exceptional individuals who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to driving positive change in their communities. Over the years, these programmes have provided thousands of Nigerians with world-class educational opportunities, equipping them with advanced skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development.
Speaking at the Lagos event, British Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter lauded the scholars for their remarkable achievements. He emphasized the profound impact of their academic experiences in the UK and encouraged them to apply their newfound knowledge and skills to benefit their communities and the nation at large. Baxter urged the graduates to embrace collaboration, challenge themselves, and strive for excellence in their respective fields. He also reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Nigeria through education and capacity-building initiatives.
Among the scholars celebrated was Daniel Onwe, a Chevening Scholar who studied International Law and Development at the University of Nottingham. Onwe, a disability rights activist, described his time in the UK as life-changing. He highlighted how the UK’s inclusive society and diverse academic environment reshaped his perspectives and enriched his understanding of global issues. “Beyond academics, engaging with people from different cultures and learning about global politics was an invaluable part of my experience,” he said.
Another scholar, who pursued a degree in International Energy Law and Policy at the University of Dundee under the Commonwealth Scholarship, shared how the programme provided a unique platform to deepen expertise in global energy issues. The scholar noted that studying in a world-class institution and networking with peers from diverse backgrounds was both intellectually stimulating and culturally enriching. “I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and look forward to leveraging my experiences to make impactful contributions in Nigeria’s energy sector,” the scholar added.
The scholars were presented with completion certificates, officially inducting them into the Chevening and Commonwealth alumni community in Nigeria. They reflected on their academic journeys, expressing gratitude for the opportunities and reiterating their readiness to apply their acquired skills to advance Nigeria’s progress.
Chevening Scholarships, funded by the UK Government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and partner institutions, support one-year master’s programmes for individuals with leadership potential. Since its inception in 1983, the programme has awarded nearly 10,000 scholarships in the past five years, creating a robust global network of over 55,000 alumni. Similarly, Commonwealth Scholarships, managed by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC), have supported over 31,000 individuals since 1960, producing notable alumni, including global leaders, Nobel laureates, diplomats, and academics dedicated to driving positive change.
Nigeria boasts one of the largest and most active alumni networks, with over 4,500 scholars, including more than 3,000 Commonwealth and 1,500 Chevening alumni. Many of these individuals are making significant contributions across various sectors, including education, healthcare, energy, and governance. This growing community underscores the vital role of international education in national development and highlights the enduring partnership between Nigeria and the UK in shaping future leaders.
The ceremonies not only celebrated the scholars’ academic achievements but also served as a reminder of the transformative power of education. As these scholars return to Nigeria, they bring with them not only advanced knowledge and skills but also a renewed commitment to driving positive change and fostering development in their homeland.
The British High Commission’s celebration of these scholars reaffirms the UK’s dedication to supporting Nigeria’s development through education and capacity-building initiatives. It also highlights the mutual benefits of the longstanding partnership between the two nations, which continues to thrive through initiatives like the Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships.
