The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) has shortlisted about 6,000 candidates from over 38,000 applications received for its 2026 Overseas Scholarship Scheme PhD programmes.
Out of the shortlisted applicants, 296 candidates were interviewed at the Department of Petroleum Engineering, University of Ibadan.
The interview process was monitored by officials of the Federal Character Commission to ensure transparency and fairness. Speaking on the sidelines, the Federal Commissioner representing Lagos State, Abdulwasiu Bawa-Allah, stated that the Commission was present to guarantee equal opportunities for all candidates.
According to him, the interview exercise is being conducted simultaneously across the country’s geopolitical zones, with strict adherence to fairness in both shortlisting and final selection.
He emphasized that the process has remained transparent and in line with the Federal Character principle, dismissing concerns about political interference. He maintained that only candidates who meet the required standards would be selected.
Also speaking, the Team Lead for the PhD Overseas Scholarship Scheme, Tajudeen Ibiyeye, described the programme as a key driver of Nigeria’s human capacity development in the oil and gas sector.
He explained that the selection process involves a public call for applications, followed by computer-based screening and academic evaluation by a panel of professors, before successful candidates are invited for interviews.
Ibiyeye noted that candidates are required to present relevant documents and defend their research proposals, stressing that selection is strictly merit-based.
Providing further insight, he revealed that while over 38,000 applications were received nationwide, slightly above 6,000 candidates progressed to the interview stage, with 296 assessed in Ibadan.
He added that the scholarship scheme continues to evolve to address emerging industry trends such as energy transition, while also playing a significant role in reducing skill gaps in Nigeria’s energy sector.
On funding concerns, Ibiyeye assured that scholars receive timely financial support, highlighting the importance of stability for students studying abroad. He also noted that PTDF has strengthened collaborations with energy companies, including Shell plc, to encourage beneficiaries to return and contribute to national development.
A member of the interview panel, Professor Byami A. Jolly of Ahmadu Bello University, explained that candidates are evaluated based on their ability to identify research gaps and propose practical, industry-relevant solutions.
She added that while many candidates align their research with industry needs, others are guided to refine their proposals during the assessment process.
Jolly described the selection process as rigorous and credible, noting that academic credentials and research submissions undergo thorough verification to ensure only the most qualified candidates are chosen.
Another panelist, Professor Olalere Gabriel Adeyemi, highlighted the programme’s impact on strengthening Nigeria’s human capital in the energy sector.
He said the initiative has significantly supported the academic community by sponsoring advanced studies abroad, thereby reducing dependence on foreign expertise.
Adeyemi further noted that the shortlisted candidates already represent the best among thousands of applicants, adding that the panel’s responsibility is to identify the most outstanding among them.
He encouraged successful candidates to return to Nigeria after their studies and contribute to the development of the country’s oil and gas industry.
Some applicants who spoke after the interview commended the Federal Government for sustaining the programme. One of them, Daniel Duru, who applied under Chemical Engineering, praised the initiative and expressed hope for its continuity. Another candidate, Augustine Ojobo from the Federal University of Technology, Yola, also described the scholarship as impactful.
The PTDF Overseas Scholarship Scheme supports Nigerian students pursuing MSc and PhD degrees in leading universities across Europe and Asia, with the goal of building technical expertise for the nation’s energy sector.
