The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) has screened 424 candidates for overseas scholarships to pursue Master’s and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees in petroleum-related disciplines.

The nationwide screening exercise is designed to identify highly qualified individuals capable of conducting development-driven research and contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s energy sector.

In the North-East region, 266 candidates were shortlisted for Master’s programmes, while 158 were selected for PhD studies.

Speaking on Tuesday at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Sirajo Abdullahi Fari, Deputy Manager (Services) at the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies, outlined the three-stage selection process. According to him, the process includes system verification, document screening by PTDF officials, and final vetting by a panel of independent consultants.

Fari explained that the PTDF’s core mandate is to build human capacity to address skill gaps in the oil and gas industry. He noted that the agency has sponsored students abroad for over two decades, with many beneficiaries making significant contributions across the sector.

“We have received numerous reports of our alumni playing key roles in major organisations, including the Dangote Refinery and Shell. Many have also advanced into academia as professors and serve as panelists in professional capacities,” he said.

He further emphasized that the Fund maintains a strict merit-based approach, ensuring that all successful candidates are selected purely on qualification, irrespective of background, ethnicity, or connections.

Also speaking, Prof. Abubakar Isa Bello of Bayero University, Kano, who served as a panelist, affirmed that the screening process was transparent and free from external influence.

“We adhere strictly to the provided guidelines. Our role is to assess candidates and make recommendations, while the PTDF takes the final decision,” he said.

Some applicants also shared their experiences. Atiku Birama from Gombe State praised the process, describing it as transparent and professionally conducted, and expressed confidence in the fairness of the outcome.

“It is reassuring to see the level of seriousness and professionalism involved. The presence of experts gives us confidence that the process is truly merit-based,” he said.

Similarly, Fatima Abdullahi from Bauchi State said the experience had strengthened her confidence and presentation skills.

“Even if I’m not selected, this process has been valuable. It has improved my ability to present and defend my research, which will benefit me in future academic and career pursuits,” she said.