The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) has commenced nationwide interviews for 5,885 shortlisted Nigerians for its 2026/2027 Overseas Scholarship Scheme.
The exercise, which began on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, is being conducted simultaneously across six centres nationwide, with officials stating that merit and the federal character principle will guide the final selection.
Speaking at the kickoff in Abuja, Bello Mustapha, the Deputy General Manager, Education and Training, PTDF, said the interviews would run until April 17 across the six geopolitical zones.
“We are here to commence the interview process for the 2026–2027 Overseas Scholarship Scheme. We just finished briefing the panelists, and the interviews have started on schedule,” he said.
He explained that the exercise is taking place concurrently in Abuja (North-Central), Bauchi (North-East), Kaduna (North-West), Rivers (South-South), Enugu (South-East), and Oyo (South-West).
Findings show that the programme has become more competitive compared to the previous year. While over 38,000 candidates applied in 2026, only 5,885 were shortlisted for interviews, compared to about 5,000 shortlisted from over 29,000 applications in 2025.
“Over 38,000 people applied for this programme, but we shortlisted 5,885 candidates for the interviews. This shows how competitive the process is,” Mustapha said.
He added that successful candidates would study in partner institutions across countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Malaysia.
On fairness, Mustapha stressed that the final selection would strictly follow Nigeria’s federal character principle, with oversight from the Federal Character Commission.
“The final selection is based on federal character. Each state is allocated a certain number of slots… The Federal Character Commission is also involved to ensure fairness,” he said.
He noted that candidates are free to attend interviews at any centre, but final selections will reflect equitable state representation.
Mustapha also explained that PTDF applies a rigorous screening process based on academic performance, relevant work experience, and other criteria.
“You must meet the criteria before you are invited. It is the total score that determines who is shortlisted,” he said.
He, however, declined to disclose the exact number of eventual beneficiaries, noting that it would depend on available funding.
