The NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL) / Oando Energy Resources Nigeria Limited (OERNL) Joint Venture has officially opened applications for the 2026/2027 Tertiary Scholarship Scheme for Nigerian undergraduate students.
The scholarship programme is part of the joint venture’s corporate social responsibility initiative aimed at supporting academically outstanding students and promoting education development across Nigeria. Through this programme, students studying in recognized Nigerian universities can receive financial assistance to help cover academic expenses and focus on their studies.
Over the years, the NEPL/OERNL Joint Venture Scholarship has supported hundreds of Nigerian students, particularly those from host communities of oil and gas operations as well as talented students from across the country.
Successful applicants will receive ₦200,000 per year, which will continue annually until graduation as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic performance and remains enrolled as a full-time undergraduate.
Application Timeline
The organisers have released the official schedule for the 2026/2027 scholarship cycle.
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | March 3, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | April 1, 2026 |
Students are strongly advised to complete their applications before the closing date to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Scholarship Categories
The scholarship programme is divided into two major categories to ensure fair opportunities for students from both host communities and other parts of Nigeria.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Host/Transit Communities Merit Award | Reserved for students who are indigenes of Oando host or transit communities |
| National Merit Award | Open to Nigerian students from other states who are not from host communities |
Students applying under the National Merit Award must be studying any of the following courses:
- Engineering
- Geology
- Geosciences
- Agricultural Sciences
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the scholarship programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be a citizen of Nigeria
- Must be a full-time undergraduate student in a recognized Nigerian university
- Must currently be in 100 level
- Must not be a beneficiary of another scholarship from an oil and gas company or similar organization
Candidates Not Eligible
The following applicants will not be considered for the scholarship:
- Students currently in 200 level or above
- Students already receiving scholarships from other oil and gas companies
- Dependants of employees of Oando PLC and its subsidiaries
Required Documents
Applicants must upload clear scanned copies of the following documents during the application process:
- Recent passport photograph with white background
- Valid school identity card
- O’Level result certificate
- JAMB result slip
- Admission letter from the university
- Birth certificate
- Proof of Local Government Area of origin
Applicants from host communities may also be required to submit additional documents confirming their community status.
Selection Process
After the application deadline, shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in an online aptitude test.
Candidates must score at least 50 percent in the aptitude test to qualify for further consideration in the scholarship selection process.
Only candidates who meet the required score will proceed to the final stage where successful beneficiaries will be selected.
Why the Scholarship Matters
The NEPL/OERNL Joint Venture Scholarship is considered one of the major education support initiatives in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. The programme helps reduce financial burdens on students while encouraging academic excellence and leadership among Nigerian youths.
By investing in education, the joint venture continues to contribute to the development of skilled professionals who will support Nigeria’s future growth and innovation.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified students can submit their applications through the official scholarship portal below.
Application Link:
https://candidate.scholastica.ng/schemes/oandoscholarship2026
