Nigerian Conservation Foundation Chief S.L Edu Ph.D Research Grant 2026 for Nigerian PhD Candidates

Are you a Nigerian PhD student passionate about environmental conservation and sustainable resource management? The Nigerian Conservation Foundation Chief S.L. Edu Ph.D Research Grant 2026 offers a remarkable opportunity for Nigerian scholars to advance their doctoral research in natural sciences, social sciences, environmental law, and related disciplines.

This prestigious grant, sponsored by Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL), provides financial support to deserving PhD candidates conducting research that contributes to Nigeria’s sustainable development goals.

By empowering researchers who are committed to biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration, the program promotes a deeper understanding of how science and policy can work together to protect nature for future generations.

Nigerian Conservation Foundation Chief S.L. Edu Ph.D Research Grant 2026

The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) is one of Nigeria’s foremost environmental organizations, dedicated to preserving biodiversity, promoting sustainable development, and strengthening climate resilience. In partnership with Chevron Nigeria Limited, the NCF launched the Chief S.L. Edu Memorial Research Grant to support high-quality doctoral research that addresses critical environmental challenges facing Nigeria.

The 2026 edition of the grant focuses on the theme:
“Restoring Ecosystems and Strengthening Climate Resilience for Sustainable Development in Nigeria.”

Through this initiative, the foundation aims to encourage innovative studies that contribute to the conservation of natural resources and the advancement of environmental protection strategies within the country.

Summary of the Grant

What Is the NCF Chief S.L. Edu Ph.D Research Grant All About?

The NCF Chief S.L. Edu Ph.D Research Grant was established in honor of Chief Shafi Lawal Edu, a renowned conservationist and founder of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation. The grant seeks to foster a new generation of environmental researchers whose work will contribute to solving real-world ecological challenges.

Each year, the program awards funding to outstanding Nigerian doctoral candidates whose research aligns with NCF’s mission to promote environmental sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and natural resource management.

The 2026 edition emphasizes research that focuses on ecosystem restoration, climate change mitigation, and sustainable practices that safeguard Nigeria’s rich biodiversity. Scholars are expected to propose innovative projects that provide practical solutions to environmental degradation and promote resilience against climate-related impacts.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

Applicants interested in the Nigerian Conservation Foundation Chief S.L. Edu Ph.D Research Grant 2026 must meet the following requirements:

• Citizenship: Applicants must be Nigerian citizens.
• Educational Qualification: Candidates must possess a Master’s degree (M.Sc) or its equivalent in Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, or Law (Environmental Law/Protection) fields directly related to environmental or natural resource management.
• University Enrollment: Applicants must have been admitted into a Nigerian university for a PhD program in any of the eligible disciplines.
• Research Alignment: The proposed research must align with the 2026 theme and must contribute meaningfully to biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable resource management.
• Progress Report Requirement: Each applicant must submit a progress report on official letterhead from their project supervisor(s). This report must outline the student’s research progress, the supervisor’s involvement, and the relevance of the project to the objectives of the grant.
• Justification Statement: Applicants must provide a 200-word justification explaining how their research relates to the theme and contributes to the conservation of biodiversity and natural resources.
• Research Proposal: A detailed 3,000-word project proposal should be submitted, including:
  • Title
  • Introduction or Statement of the Problem
  • Research Objectives
  • Methodology
  • Expected Results and Outputs
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): The CV should not exceed two pages and must include research and work experience details.
• Admission Letter: A scanned copy of the PhD admission letter must be provided.

Grant Objectives

The main objectives of the Chief S.L. Edu Memorial Ph.D Research Grant are to:

• Support Nigerian scholars conducting research that contributes to sustainable natural resource management.
• Encourage research that fosters climate resilience and the restoration of degraded ecosystems.
• Strengthen the capacity of local researchers to generate data that informs policy and environmental decision-making.
• Recognize and reward academic excellence and innovation in conservation research.
• Align doctoral studies with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those related to life on land, climate action, and environmental protection.

Why Apply for the Grant?

Winning the NCF Chief S.L. Edu Ph.D Research Grant 2026 offers more than just financial assistance. Recipients gain national recognition, professional credibility, and the opportunity to join a network of conservation experts across Nigeria.

Some of the key benefits include:

• Financial Support: Funding to assist with fieldwork, data collection, and research materials.
• Academic Exposure: Recognition from a reputable environmental foundation, boosting academic and professional profiles.
• Networking Opportunities: Access to mentorship and collaboration with NCF professionals, environmentalists, and industry experts.
• Contribution to National Development: The opportunity to produce research that influences national policy and drives environmental change.
• Legacy of Impact: Joining the long-standing tradition of researchers inspired by Chief S.L. Edu’s dedication to conservation.

Required Documents

Applicants are required to submit the following documents during the application process:

• A 3,000-word detailed research proposal (including title, introduction, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes).
• A 200-word justification highlighting the relevance of the study to the 2026 theme and NCF’s mission.
• A progress report from the PhD supervisor, clearly indicating the research stage and relevance to the grant’s objectives.
• A scanned copy of the PhD admission letter from a Nigerian university.
• An updated Curriculum Vitae (not exceeding two pages).
• Any additional supporting documents demonstrating academic excellence or previous environmental research.

How to Apply

Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for the Nigerian Conservation Foundation Chief S.L. Edu Ph.D Research Grant 2026:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to the official NCF scholarship page to read detailed information and confirm your eligibility.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application Package

Ensure all required documents are compiled, well-organized, and formatted correctly.

Step 3: Write Your Research Proposal

Carefully draft your research proposal according to the guidelines provided. It must align with the 2026 theme and reflect the NCF’s mission of promoting sustainable development.

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

Complete your online application and submit all necessary documents before December 9, 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Step 5: Await Shortlisting

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further review or interviews.

Evaluation and Selection

Applications will be reviewed by a panel of experts in environmental science, social policy, and conservation. The selection process will focus on:

• Relevance of Research: Alignment with the 2026 theme and NCF’s conservation goals.
• Quality of Proposal: Clarity, feasibility, and academic rigor of the submitted proposal.
• Innovative Approach: Originality and potential impact on ecosystem restoration and climate resilience.
• Research Progress: Evidence of ongoing work and commitment to completing the PhD.
• Supervisor’s Recommendation: Strength of the supervisor’s progress report and endorsement.

Important Dates

• Application Opens: Currently Open
• Application Deadline: December 9, 2025
• Selection Announcement: Early 2026

For more information and to apply, visit the official webpage: https://www.ncfnigeria.org

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