NDDC Local Masters Scholarship 2026/2027: Application Form and Requirements

Last updated: 13 October 2026

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has opened applications for its 2026/2027 Local Post-Graduate (Master’s Degree) Scholarship Programme. Eligible indigenes of the Niger Delta region can now apply online for full sponsorship to pursue master’s degree studies at recognised Nigerian universities. The application deadline is 8th November 2026.

The programme is designed to provide opportunities for qualified young people from the Niger Delta region to acquire advanced knowledge, professional competencies, and specialised skills required to enhance their contribution to the socio-economic development of the region and Nigeria at large. The Scholarship is intended to promote academic excellence and professional development in disciplines relevant to the development needs of the Region and the Federal Government’s Local Content Programme.

About the NDDC Scholarship Programme

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), in furtherance of its mandate to promote sustainable human capital development in the Niger Delta Region, hereby invites applications from suitably qualified and interested Niger Delta indigenes for the 2026/2027 Local Post-Graduate Scholarship Programme.

Approved Disciplines

Applications are invited from candidates with relevant undergraduate qualifications for master’s degree programmes in the following disciplines:

• Agricultural Sciences
• Architecture
• Engineering
• Environmental Sciences
• Geosciences
• Humanities
• Information Technology
• Law
• Management & Social Sciences
• Medical Sciences
• Education
• Biotechnology/Biomedical Science

See also: https://tpi.com.ng/nddc-foreign-post-graduate-masters-degree-scholarships/ 

Scholarship Benefits

The NDDC Local Masters Scholarship covers:

• Full tuition fees
• Living expenses allowance (stipend)
• Accommodation support
• Travel support

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be indigenes of the Niger Delta Region
• Not be more than forty (40) years of age
• Possess a relevant Bachelor’s Degree from a recognised university with a minimum of Second Class Lower Division
• Applicants with a Higher National Diploma (HND) must possess a minimum of Upper Credit and a relevant Post-Graduate Diploma (PGD), where applicable
• Possess a valid admission letter for a Master’s Degree programme from a recognised Nigerian university
• Possess a valid NYSC Discharge or Exemption Certificate
• Satisfy all other requirements prescribed by the Commission
• Other approved eligibility requirements as stated by NDDC

Documents Required

Applicants are required to upload clear copies of the following:

• Recent passport photograph
• Local Government Identification Letter
• Master’s degree admission letter from a recognised conventional university in Nigeria
• Relevant academic certificates/credentials (applicable)
• NYSC Discharge or Exemption Certificate
• Birth Certificate / Valid Statutory Age Declaration
• Any other documents that may be required by the Commission

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to complete your application:

Step 1: Visit the official website

Go to www.nddc.gov.ng – the official NDDC website.

Step 2: Begin Online Application

Qualified applicants are required to complete and submit their applications online through the NDDC official website during the stipulated period.

Step 3: Complete the application form

Carefully complete the application form with accurate personal, academic, and indigeneity information.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Upload all required documents listed above (passport photograph, LGA identification letter, admission letter, academic certificates, NYSC certificate, birth certificate/age declaration).

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Submit your application form electronically through the portal.

Step 6: Note your registration number

Upon successful submission, the system will automatically generate a unique registration number. Applicants are advised to print and retain the acknowledgement slip for future reference.

Step 7: Submit Before Deadline

Ensure your application is completed and submitted on or before 8th November 2026. Applicants are strongly advised to beat the deadline to avoid difficulties that may arise from last-minute submissions.

Selection Process

1. Online Application

Interested candidates shall complete and submit their applications through the NDDC online application portal within the stipulated period.

2. Preliminary Screening

Applications shall be screened based on approved criteria, including:

• WASSCE/NECO results
• Undergraduate academic qualifications
• Relevant postgraduate qualifications, where applicable
• Valid Local Government Identification
• NIN Slip
• Other approved eligibility requirements

3. Computer-Based Test (CBT)

Candidates who successfully pass the preliminary screening shall be shortlisted for a Computer-Based Test (CBT).

CBT Centres: The CBT shall be conducted at designated centres in Akwa Ibom State, Edo State, and Rivers State.

Important: Applicants shall be required to indicate their preferred CBT zone on the registration portal.

4. Minimum CBT score

Candidates must attain a minimum score of 70% in the CBT to qualify for further consideration.

Note: Meeting the minimum CBT score does not constitute an automatic entitlement to a scholarship award.

5. Further Shortlisting

Candidates who meet the prescribed CBT threshold shall be further shortlisted and invited to participate in an oral interview. The Commission shall conduct the oral interview in accordance with its approved selection criteria and guidelines.

6. Final Verification

The final stage of the selection process shall involve comprehensive verification of shortlisted candidates, including:

• Verification of the candidate’s student admission and admission status with the respective universities
• Verification of submitted academic credentials and other supporting documents
• Verification of the candidate’s indigene status through the relevant Local Government Area (LGA)
• Verification, where applicable, through the relevant Community Development Committee (CDC)

Also read: https://tpi.com.ng/nddc-recruitment/ 

Tips for a Successful Application

• Apply as early as possible; do not wait until the 8th November deadline
• Prepare all documents in digital format (clear, scanned copies) before starting
• Confirm your Bachelor’s degree meets the minimum Second Class Lower requirement (or HND Upper Credit + PGD)
• Ensure your master’s degree admission letter is from a recognised conventional Nigerian university
• Confirm your NYSC Discharge/Exemption Certificate is ready and valid
• Select your preferred CBT zone carefully (Akwa Ibom, Edo, or Rivers State)
• Prepare thoroughly for the CBT – you need a minimum score of 70% to proceed
• Review all entries carefully before final submission
• Print and retain your acknowledgement slip/registration number immediately after submission
• Regularly check www.nddc.gov.ng for updates and further instructions
• Contact the Director, Education, Health and Social Services, NDDC for enquiries if needed.

Disclaimer: tpi.com.ng is an independent information website and is not affiliated with NDDC. Apply only on the official portal.