PTDF Commences Selection for Overseas PhD Scholarship, Targets 2,102 Applicants
The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) has initiated selection interviews for PhD applicants under its 2026/2027 Overseas Scholarship Scheme, with a focus on enhancing Nigeria's technical capabilities in the oil and gas industry. The screening process, currently underway in Port Harcourt at the Centre for Skills Development and Training, is part of a nationwide effort across all six geo-political zones to identify top candidates prepared to address the sector's evolving challenges.
New Split-Site PhD Structure Introduced
During the exercise, Deputy Manager of the Internal Audit Division at PTDF, Obonin Ogiri-Daddy, highlighted the Fund's commitment to developing a highly skilled workforce for Nigeria's petroleum industry. He announced a significant shift in the scholarship model, replacing the traditional full overseas programme with a split-site PhD structure. Under this new arrangement, successful candidates will spend one year studying abroad and complete the remaining two years in Nigeria, aiming to balance global exposure with local relevance.
"Our mandate extends beyond overseas training. The Overseas Scholarship Scheme remains a flagship platform to equip Nigerians with the expertise needed to thrive in the dynamic oil and gas sector," Ogiri-Daddy stated.
Merit-Based and Transparent Selection Process
Candidates are being evaluated across key disciplines, including engineering, geosciences, management, and other related fields, with the entire application process conducted online. Ogiri-Daddy emphasised that the selection process is strictly merit-based, transparent, and guided by the federal character principle to ensure fair representation from all states, noting that it remains free from external influence.
The initiative underscores PTDF's renewed efforts to build technical capacity, targeting 2,102 PhD applicants across Nigeria. This screening exercise marks a critical step in identifying individuals who can contribute to the industry's growth and innovation.
