In a significant stride toward fostering education and capacity building in Nigeria, Nigerian Agip Exploration Limited (NAE), a subsidiary of the global energy giant Eni, acting on behalf of NNPC Limited and NAE Production Sharing Contract (PSC) partners, has awarded 30 post-graduate scholarships to Nigerian graduates for the 2025/2026 academic session. This initiative, a cornerstone of the company’s commitment to human capital development, aims to empower young Nigerian scholars to pursue advanced studies in prestigious institutions both within Nigeria and abroad. The announcement, made during a well-attended award ceremony in Abuja, underscores NAE’s long-standing dedication to nurturing talent and fostering innovation in Nigeria’s energy sector and beyond.
The scholarship program, which has been a pivotal part of NAE’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts since its inception in 2007, is designed to address the skills gap in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, particularly in the deep offshore sector. By investing in the education of talented young Nigerians, NAE seeks to cultivate a new generation of professionals equipped with the knowledge and expertise needed to drive the country’s energy sector forward. The 30 beneficiaries of this year’s scholarships were selected from a highly competitive pool of over 1,500 applicants, a testament to the rigorous and merit-based selection process employed by NAE and its partners.
A Rigorous Selection Process
The selection of the 30 scholars was no small feat. NAE and its partners at NNPC Limited implemented a meticulous evaluation process to ensure that only the most deserving candidates were chosen. Applicants were required to demonstrate exceptional academic performance, as evidenced by their undergraduate records, and to excel in a computer-based test designed to assess their aptitude and readiness for advanced studies. The test, which covered a range of subjects relevant to the energy sector and other technical fields, served as a critical benchmark for determining the candidates’ intellectual capabilities and their potential to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development.
The diversity of the chosen fields of study reflects the forward-thinking nature of the scholarship program. The 30 beneficiaries will pursue post-graduate degrees in disciplines such as Engineering, Geosciences, Petroleum and Environmental Technology, Energy Economics, Renewable Energy, and Energy Transition. These fields are not only critical to the oil and gas industry but also align with global trends toward sustainability and the adoption of cleaner energy solutions. By supporting studies in these areas, NAE is positioning Nigeria to remain competitive in an evolving global energy landscape.
Of the 30 awardees, 10 will have the opportunity to study at renowned international universities, gaining exposure to global best practices and cutting-edge research in their respective fields. The remaining 20 scholars will attend top-tier Nigerian institutions, contributing to the development of local academic excellence and ensuring that Nigeria’s universities continue to produce world-class graduates. This dual approach—supporting both international and local education—demonstrates NAE’s commitment to fostering a balanced ecosystem of knowledge acquisition and application within Nigeria.
The Award Ceremony: A Celebration of Excellence
The award ceremony, held in the nation’s capital, Abuja, was a moment of pride and celebration for the beneficiaries, their families, and the representatives of NAE and NNPC Limited. The event was graced by key figures from both organizations, including Mr. Fabrizio Bolondi, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of NAE, who delivered a heartfelt address to the scholars. In his speech, Mr. Bolondi congratulated the recipients and reiterated NAE’s unwavering commitment to education, innovation, and capacity building in Nigeria.
“The award ceremony highlights our continuous commitment to the future of education, innovation, and capacity building in Nigeria,” Mr. Bolondi stated. He emphasized the transformative potential of the scholarship program, noting that it is not merely a financial investment but a strategic effort to empower young Nigerians to become leaders in their fields. Mr. Bolondi encouraged the scholars to seize this opportunity to acquire valuable skills and knowledge that will enable them to make meaningful contributions to Nigeria’s energy sector and society at large.
The ceremony also saw the participation of representatives from NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), including Mrs. Edith Bunmi-Lawson, Manager of External Relations, and Mr. Paul Duke, Deputy Manager PSC Asset A3. Their presence underscored the collaborative nature of the scholarship program, which is a joint effort between NAE and NNPC Limited. The partnership between these two entities has been instrumental in sustaining the program over the years, ensuring that it continues to deliver tangible benefits to Nigerian students and the broader society.
A Legacy of Human Capital Development
Since its establishment in 2007, the NNPC-NAE PSC scholarship scheme has been a cornerstone of NAE’s human capital development initiatives. Over the past 18 years, the program has supported 350 graduates, providing them with the opportunity to pursue advanced studies and develop expertise in specialized areas critical to Nigeria’s deep offshore oil and gas operations. The impact of this initiative is evident in the growing number of Nigerian professionals who have emerged as leaders in the energy sector, contributing to the country’s economic growth and technological advancement.
The scholarship program is designed to bridge the skills gap in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, particularly in the deep offshore sector, which requires highly specialized knowledge and technical expertise. By investing in the education of young Nigerians, NAE is helping to build a robust pipeline of talent capable of addressing the complex challenges associated with deep offshore exploration and production. The program also aligns with Nigeria’s broader goals of promoting local content development and reducing reliance on foreign expertise in the energy sector.
Beyond its focus on technical skills, the scholarship scheme also emphasizes the importance of innovation and adaptability in a rapidly changing global energy landscape. The inclusion of fields such as Renewable Energy and Energy Transition among the supported disciplines reflects NAE’s recognition of the need to prepare Nigerian professionals for the future of energy. As the world transitions toward cleaner and more sustainable energy sources, Nigeria must be equipped with a workforce capable of leading this transformation. The scholarship program is a proactive step toward achieving this goal.
NAE’s Broader Commitment to Sustainability
The scholarship program is just one facet of NAE’s broader sustainability initiatives in Nigeria. Since its incorporation in 1996, NAE has been a key player in Nigeria’s deep offshore exploration and production, holding interests in six deep offshore blocks. Over the years, the company has implemented a wide range of CSR initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for Nigerians and fostering sustainable development.
In the area of education, NAE has invested in various programs beyond the post-graduate scholarship scheme. These include support for primary and secondary education, teacher training, and the provision of educational infrastructure such as classrooms and libraries. By addressing education at multiple levels, NAE is helping to create a comprehensive ecosystem of learning that benefits Nigerians of all ages.
In addition to education, NAE’s sustainability efforts encompass health, water access, infrastructure, and community empowerment. The company has supported the construction of healthcare facilities, the provision of clean water, and the development of critical infrastructure such as roads and electricity. These initiatives have had a transformative impact on communities across Nigeria, particularly in the regions where NAE operates.
Community empowerment is another key focus area for NAE. Through skills development programs, vocational training, and support for local businesses, the company is helping to create economic opportunities for Nigerians. These efforts align with Nigeria’s broader goals of promoting inclusive growth and reducing poverty.
The Role of NAE in Nigeria’s Energy Sector
Incorporated in 1996, NAE has established itself as a leading player in Nigeria’s deep offshore oil and gas industry. The company holds interests in six deep offshore blocks, where it conducts exploration and production activities in partnership with NNPC Limited and other stakeholders. NAE’s operations are characterized by a commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability, making it a vital contributor to Nigeria’s energy sector.
The deep offshore sector is one of the most challenging and technically demanding areas of the oil and gas industry. It requires advanced technology, specialized expertise, and significant investment. NAE’s ability to operate successfully in this sector is a testament to its technical capabilities and its commitment to building local capacity. By supporting the education of Nigerian graduates, NAE is ensuring that the country has the human capital needed to sustain and grow its deep offshore operations.
The Impact of the Scholarship Program
The NNPC-NAE PSC scholarship program has had a profound impact on the lives of its beneficiaries and on Nigeria’s energy sector as a whole. For the 350 graduates who have benefited from the program since its inception, the scholarship has been a life-changing opportunity, enabling them to pursue advanced studies and build successful careers. Many of these graduates have gone on to hold leadership positions in the oil and gas industry, academia, and other sectors, contributing to Nigeria’s development in meaningful ways.
The program has also had a broader impact on Nigeria’s education system. By supporting post-graduate studies at Nigerian universities, NAE is helping to strengthen the country’s academic institutions and promote the development of local expertise. This, in turn, contributes to the growth of Nigeria’s knowledge economy and its ability to compete in a globalized world.
Moreover, the scholarship program serves as a model for other companies operating in Nigeria. By demonstrating the value of investing in education and human capital development, NAE is encouraging other organizations to adopt similar initiatives. This collaborative approach to CSR has the potential to create a ripple effect, amplifying the impact of NAE’s efforts and benefiting a larger segment of Nigeria’s population.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Scholarship Program
As NAE looks to the future, the scholarship program is expected to continue playing a central role in the company’s CSR strategy. The energy sector is undergoing significant changes, driven by technological advancements, the transition to renewable energy, and the need for greater sustainability. To remain competitive, Nigeria must continue to invest in the education and training of its workforce.
The inclusion of fields such as Renewable Energy and Energy Transition in the scholarship program reflects NAE’s forward-thinking approach to these challenges. By supporting studies in these areas, the company is preparing Nigerian graduates to lead the country’s transition to a more sustainable energy future. This aligns with global trends and positions Nigeria as a leader in the African energy sector.
In addition to expanding the range of supported disciplines, NAE may also explore ways to increase the number of scholarships awarded each year. With over 1,500 applicants for this year’s program, there is clearly a high demand for opportunities like this. By scaling up the program, NAE could reach even more talented young Nigerians and make an even greater impact on the country’s development.
Conclusion
The award of 30 post-graduate scholarships by Nigerian Agip Exploration Limited for the 2025/2026 academic year is a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to education, innovation, and capacity building in Nigeria. Through this initiative, NAE is empowering a new generation of Nigerian scholars to pursue advanced studies in critical fields, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to drive the country’s energy sector forward.
The scholarship program, now in its 18th year, has already made a significant impact, supporting 350 graduates and contributing to the development of local expertise in Nigeria’s deep offshore oil and gas industry. By investing in education, NAE is not only addressing the skills gap in the energy sector but also fostering a culture of excellence and innovation that will benefit Nigeria for years to come.
As NAE continues to implement its sustainability initiatives, including the scholarship program, it is setting a powerful example for other companies operating in Nigeria. By prioritizing education, health, infrastructure, and community empowerment, NAE is helping to create a brighter future for Nigerians and reinforcing its position as a responsible corporate citizen.
The 30 scholars who received this year’s awards are poised to become leaders in their fields, contributing to Nigeria’s growth and development. As they embark on their post-graduate studies, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of a nation, as well as the support of NAE and its partners. Through their hard work and dedication, they will undoubtedly make a lasting impact on Nigeria’s energy sector and beyond.