PTDF Starts Selection Interviews for 2026/2027 Overseas Scholarships Scheme

The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) has begun the selection interviews for shortlisted MSc and PhD candidates under its 2026/2027 Overseas Scholarship Scheme.

The interview exercises are being conducted simultaneously across the six geo-political zones, with designated centres in Abuja (North-Central), Bauchi (North-East), Kaduna (North-West), Enugu (South-East), Rivers (South-South), and Oyo (South-West).

Speaking during the exercise in Abuja, the deputy general manager, Education and Training at PTDF, Dr Mustapha Bello, said the process marks the beginning of the final stage in selecting beneficiaries for the scholarship programme.
According to him, over 38,000 applications were received, out of which about 5,000 candidates were shortlisted for the interview stage.
“We are here to commence the interview process for the 2026/2027 Overseas Scholarship Scheme. We have just finished briefing the panelists, who will be interviewing selected candidates,” he said.
Dr. Bello explained that PTDF maintains international partnerships with institutions in countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Malaysia, where successful candidates will pursue their studies.
On the distribution of interview centres, he noted that the process was designed to ensure accessibility for candidates nationwide.
“We have six centres across the six geo-political zones. Candidates are free to attend interviews at any centre convenient for them, regardless of their state of origin,” he added.
Addressing concerns about fairness and inclusivity, Dr Bello assured that the selection process strictly adheres to the federal character principle.
“No zone or state is disadvantaged. For instance, if three MSc slots are allocated per state, each state will have equal representation. However, oil-producing states may receive additional slots,” he explained.
He further disclosed that officials from the Federal Character Commission were present to monitor the process and ensure transparency and equity.
On the criteria for shortlisting candidates, Dr Bello stated that PTDF applies strict academic and professional benchmarks.
“We have defined parameters for selection. Candidates must possess strong academic qualifications such as First Class, Second Class Upper, or in some cases Second Class Lower degrees, alongside relevant work experience. Even O’Level results are graded as part of the assessment,” he said.
The PTDF Overseas Scholarship Scheme is one of Nigeria’s flagship human capital development initiatives aimed at building capacity in the oil and gas sector through specialized training in top international institutions.
One of the shortlisted candidates, Alhaji Ikoh, a graduate of Environmental Science from Kogi State University, expressed gratitude for the opportunity.
“I chose Environmental Science because I want to contribute to environmental development in Nigeria. Although my background is in Architecture, this field aligns with my passion,” he said.
He described his shortlisting as a significant achievement, given the large number of applicants.
“Over 38,000 people applied, and being among the 5,000 shortlisted candidates is something I am grateful for. I thank God and PTDF for this opportunity,” he added.