Are you from the Niger Delta and dreaming of a master’s degree? Then here is a big chance. The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has opened its Local Postgraduate Scholarship Programme for 2026/2027. It supports young indigenes who want to study for a master’s degree at a Nigerian university. Best of all, applying is free. Read on to see if you qualify.
About the NDDC Local Postgraduate Scholarship 2026/2027
The scholarship is part of NDDC’s plan to build skills and talent across the Niger Delta. It funds master’s study in fields that matter for the region’s growth. For example, last session NDDC picked 600 people for the 2025/2026 local postgraduate scholarship.
This year, you can apply in 12 broad fields:
- Agricultural Sciences
- Architecture
- Engineering
- Environmental Sciences
- Geosciences
- Humanities
- Information Technology
- Law
- Management and Social Sciences
- Medical Sciences
- Education
- Biotechnology/Biomedical Science
Benefits of the NDDC Postgraduate Scholarship
Selected scholars can:
- Get scholarship support for a master’s degree at a recognised Nigerian university
- Study without the full weight of postgraduate fees
- Build advanced skills in a field the region needs
- Boost their career prospects with a higher degree
However, the notice does not list the exact amount or what costs it covers. So, check the details on the NDDC website before you apply.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility for the NDDC Scholarship
You can apply if you:
- Are an indigene of the Niger Delta. That means Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo or Rivers State.
- Are not older than 40
- Hold a relevant bachelor’s degree with at least a Second Class Lower, or an HND with at least an Upper Credit (plus a relevant postgraduate diploma where needed)
- Have a valid admission letter for a master’s programme at a recognised Nigerian university
- Have your NYSC discharge or exemption certificate
- Have a Local Government Identification Letter
Moreover, reports say candidates from oil-producing host communities will get preference, as long as they meet the cut-off mark.
Documents You Need
- A recent passport photograph
- Local Government Identification Letter
- Master’s admission letter
- Academic certificates
- NYSC discharge or exemption certificate
- Birth certificate or age declaration
Selection Process
First, NDDC screens your documents, which may include your WASSCE or NECO results and NIN. Next, eligible applicants sit a computer-based test (CBT) in Akwa Ibom, Edo or Rivers State. You pick your preferred test zone when you apply. You need at least 70% in the CBT to move on. Then, some candidates are invited to an oral interview. Finally, NDDC checks your admission, certificates and indigene status.
Application Deadline
The deadline is November 8, 2026. Therefore, start early. Last-minute rushes often slow the portal down.
How to Apply for the NDDC Local Postgraduate Scholarship
Apply online through the official NDDC website. Open the Scholarships page, create an account or log in, fill in the form and upload your documents. Note that the application is free. So, do not pay anyone for a form or a slot. Also, rely only on NDDC’s official channels for updates.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Get your admission letter and Local Government letter ready first. They take the longest.
- Scan every document clearly before you start.
- Revise for the CBT. You need 70% to move on.
- Do not mix this up with the NDDC Foreign Postgraduate Scholarship, which is a separate call.
Looking for more master’s funding? See the Chevening Scholarships 2027, the Cambridge Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 and the Niger Delta Digital Summit Seed Funding 2026.
