Opportunity for Nigerian Researchers! Applications are now open for the 2026 Edition of the Chief S.L. Edu Memorial Ph.D. Research Grant, an annual initiative by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), proudly sponsored by Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL). This prestigious environmental research grant is designed to support Nigerian Ph.D. candidates conducting impactful studies in natural sciences, social sciences, environmental law, and sustainable resource management. The program promotes innovative, evidence-based research that contributes to climate resilience, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable development in Nigeria. The 2026 theme is: “Restoring Ecosystems and Strengthening Climate Resilience for Sustainable Development in Nigeria.” Through this initiative, NCF continues its mission of protecting nature’s heritage, fostering biodiversity conservation, and building the next generation of environmental scholars whose work will shape Nigeria’s future sustainability policies.
The NCF Chief S.L. Edu Research Grant provides financial and institutional support to outstanding Nigerian Ph.D. candidates pursuing research aligned with NCF’s vision of a sustainable Nigeria where people and nature thrive together. Successful applicants will receive funding to support their fieldwork, data analysis, and academic research in any of the following thematic areas:
Ecosystem restoration and biodiversity conservation
Climate change mitigation and adaptation
Natural resource governance and policy
Environmental law and protection
Sustainable livelihoods and rural resilience
The 2026 edition of the grant aims to produce actionable insights that strengthen Nigeria’s environmental policies, improve community resilience, and contribute to global sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) and Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL)
Requirements/ Eligibility Criteria
Candidates will be selected based on the quality, relevance, and innovation of their research proposals, as well as alignment with the 2026 theme. To be eligible, applicants must meet the following requirements: 1. Nationality: Applicants must be Nigerian citizens. 2. Academic Qualification: Must possess an M.Sc. degree or its equivalent in Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, or Environmental Law/Protection (related to natural and environmental resource management). 3. Ph.D. Admission: Must have secured admission into a Nigerian university to pursue a Ph.D. in any of the eligible fields. 4. Research Alignment: The proposed research must align with the 2026 theme and contribute to the realization of NCF’s mission of sustainable resource management and biodiversity conservation. 5. Supervisor’s Progress Report: Applicants must submit a progress report (on official letterhead) from their project supervisor. The report should detail the student’s progress, supervisor’s involvement, and how the research aligns with the grant’s objectives. Note: A reference letter is not the same as a progress report. Only supervisors can write the progress report, but anyone may write a reference letter. 6. Justification Statement: A 200-word justification explaining the research’s relevance to biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, or environmental sustainability. 7. Project Proposal: A 3,000-word proposal i 8. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Not more than 2 pages, highlighting academic achievements, research experience, and professional background. 9. Proof of Admission: Scanned copy of Ph.D. admission letter from the host university. Applications that fail to meet these requirements will not be considered. Attention to detail and adherence to guidelinesare crucial.
Benefits of the Grant
The Chief S.L. Edu Memorial Grant is one of the most respected environmental research fellowships in Nigeria. Selected fellows will enjoy:
Financial support to cover fieldwork, research materials, and logistics.
Academic recognition from NCF and Chevron Nigeria Limited.
Networking opportunities with conservation experts, academics, and environmental policymakers.
Visibility and mentorship through NCF’s professional network and environmental events.
Contribution to national impact: Successful projects often inform policy recommendations, publications, and community-based solutions to pressing environmental challenges.
This grant is more than funding — it’s an investment in leadership, research excellence, and sustainable impact.
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