Eni, a prominent global energy company, through its Nigerian subsidiary, Nigerian Agip Exploration Limited (NAE), has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering educational development and capacity building in Nigeria by awarding postgraduate scholarships to 30 deserving Nigerian students. This initiative, executed under the 2025/2026 NNPC-NAE PSC Scholarship Awards Scheme, represents a significant investment in the future of the Nigerian energy sector and the broader national development agenda. The rigorous selection process, involving over 1,500 applicants, underscores the competitive nature of the scholarship and the high caliber of the chosen scholars. The awardees were meticulously evaluated based on their academic achievements and performance in a comprehensive computer-based test, ensuring that the scholarships are granted to individuals with exceptional potential to contribute to the industry and the nation.
The scholarship program caters to a diverse range of academic disciplines crucial for the advancement of the energy sector. The chosen fields of study include engineering, geosciences, petroleum and environmental technology, energy economics, renewable energy, and energy transition. This broad spectrum reflects Eni’s forward-thinking approach and its recognition of the evolving landscape of the energy industry. By supporting students in these critical areas, Eni aims to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the ongoing energy transition and the increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions. The distribution of the scholarships, with 10 recipients pursuing their studies at internationally renowned universities and 20 studying at prestigious Nigerian institutions, further emphasizes Eni’s commitment to providing access to both local and global educational resources.
The scholarship award ceremony, held in Abuja, served as a platform to celebrate the achievements of the awardees and to highlight the importance of investing in human capital. Fabrizio Bolondi, the NAE Vice Chairman and Managing Director, emphasized the company’s dedication to education, innovation, and capacity building in Nigeria. He underscored the significance of the scholarship program in nurturing the next generation of energy professionals who will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Nigerian energy sector. Bolondi’s address also served as an encouragement to the recipients, urging them to maximize the opportunity provided by the scholarship and contribute meaningfully to national development, particularly within the energy sector. The presence of representatives from NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services, including Edith Bunmi-Lawson, Manager of External Relations, and Paul Duke, Deputy Manager PSC Asset A3, further emphasized the collaborative nature of the scholarship program and the shared commitment of both organizations to developing local talent.
The NNPC-NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme, launched in 2007, stands as a testament to Eni’s long-standing commitment to bridging the skills gap in specialized fields crucial for deep offshore oil and gas operations in Nigeria. Over the years, the program has evolved into a cornerstone of Eni’s corporate social responsibility initiatives, significantly contributing to the development of local expertise within the Nigerian energy industry. The scheme has consistently focused on equipping Nigerian graduates with the advanced knowledge and skills required to excel in the highly technical and demanding field of deep offshore operations. This strategic approach not only benefits the individuals receiving the scholarships but also strengthens the overall capacity of the Nigerian energy sector, fostering greater self-reliance and reducing the need for foreign expertise.
With 350 graduates benefitting from the program to date, the NNPC-NAE PSC Scholarship Scheme has established a legacy of impactful contributions to the Nigerian energy sector. The program’s alumni network represents a growing pool of highly skilled professionals who are actively contributing to the growth and development of the industry. These graduates are equipped to tackle the complex challenges and capitalize on the emerging opportunities in the sector, ensuring that Nigeria remains a key player in the global energy landscape. The scheme’s long-term impact extends beyond the individual beneficiaries, contributing to the overall development of the Nigerian economy and its human capital.
The NNPC-NAE PSC Postgraduate Scholarship Program stands as a shining example of a successful public-private partnership aimed at driving sustainable development within the Nigerian energy sector. By investing in the education and training of local talent, Eni is not only fulfilling its corporate social responsibility but also contributing to the long-term growth and prosperity of Nigeria. The program’s continued success serves as a model for other organizations seeking to make a meaningful impact on the communities where they operate, demonstrating the transformative power of education and capacity building. The scholarship program represents not just a financial investment, but a strategic commitment to fostering a brighter future for Nigeria’s energy sector and the nation as a whole.
