By BUSAYO ONIJALA

The British High Commission has held a welcome ceremony to celebrate 99 Nigerians who recently completed their studies in the UK through the Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships.

In a statement on Friday, the mission said the Chevening scholars, who completed their studies were 30, while the Commonwealth scholars and Fellows were 69, bringing their total to 99.

All the beneficiaries come from a wide range of masters, PhD, and fellowship programmes.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that chevening scholarships are the UK Government’s global scholarship programme

They are funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), partner organisations, and partner universities.

The scholarships support study at UK universities for one-year taught masters degrees for individuals with demonstrable potential to become future leaders and decision-makers.

Commonwealth scholarships, on the other hand, are managed by the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the UK.

The British Deputy High Commissioner, Mrs Gill Lever (OBE) lauded the scholars on the completion of their studies, many of whom bagged distinctions.

“I’m so happy that talented Nigerians have had the opportunity to study in the UK, returning with additional knowledge and skills to make a positive difference in their home country.

“I encourage them to aim for excellence in their future endeavours and I know they will be great ambassadors for the UK in Nigeria,” she said.

Lever urged them to make the most of the networking and knowledge sharing that being a Commonwealth or Chevening scholar presents.

The mission further noted that British Council Nigeria was represented by Mr Chikodi Onyemerela, its Director of Programmes.

In his remarks, Onyemerela urged the scholars to apply the knowledge, skills and network they acquired in the UK to address challenges facing Nigeria in various sectors.

He added that they should also maintain ties with their UK institutions.

Chevening Scholar, Nankur Ramdur, said she plans to continue outreaches to schools and communities, teaching responses and safe practices regarding sexual and gender-based violence.

Ramdur studied Terrorism, International Crime and Global Security at Coventry University.

“I understand that peace and security are at the heart of every nation’s development and success, hence, I look forward to contributing to a safer Nigeria.

“I am also currently writing a book to broaden the impact of this initiative in Nigeria and subsequently across the globe.

“I am glad Chevening has propelled me towards achieving my dreams!” Ramdur said.

NAN also reports that Nigeria currently has an alumni base with over 3000 commonwealth and over 1500 chevening scholars impacting and contributing to Nigeria’s development. (NAN)

•PHOTO: British Deputy High Commissioner, Mrs Gill Lever, with some of the Chevening and Commonwealth scholars in Lagos

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