From 5 August to 7 October 2025, dreamers and doers those passionate about shaping their communities and solving global problems are called to step forward.

For over four decades, Chevening has been more than just a scholarship; it has been a launchpad. Since its inception in 1983, over 60,000 change-makers have walked through its doors returning to their home countries with fresh perspectives, new networks, and the drive to make meaningful, lasting impact.

Emma Hennessey, head of the Scholarships Unit at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), describes Chevening as a gateway for the bold and the brilliant:

“Chevening’s selection process is competitive because we’re looking for individuals who don’t just have big dreams, but the leadership, influence, and collaborative spirit to realise them. If you can clearly demonstrate those qualities, I encourage you to apply. And if not just yet, build your capacity and come back stronger.”

From boardrooms in Abuja to policy hubs in London and innovation labs in Nairobi, Chevening alumni are transforming sectors and societies.

In Nigeria alone, many scholars have returned to spearhead initiatives in education, governance, tech, and health each one weaving their Chevening experience into the fabric of national development.

Richard Montgomery, British High Commissioner to Nigeria, shared a powerful call to action:

“Chevening isn’t just a scholarship. It’s a doorway into a global community of leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, policymaker, social advocate, or creative visionary, this is your moment to elevate your journey.”

“We are looking for individuals with passion, purpose, and a vision for positive change in Nigeria and beyond. If that sounds like you, don’t wait apply before the deadline.”

How to Apply:

Visit chevening.org/apply to begin your application. Applicants are also strongly advised to read the detailed guidance at chevening.org/guidance to understand the expectations and prepare a competitive submission.

During the two-day visit, the High Commissioner visited the Abia State Governor,  Alex Otti where they discussed prosperity opportunities and future priorities that could be beneficial to the state and the UK.

Together with the Governor, the High Commissioner attended the graduation ceremony of the State-Level Inclusive Digital Transformation Programme funded through the UK’s Digital Access Programme (DAP).

The programme is designed to bridge the digital skills gap by delivering relevant and applicable digital skills for the state’s civil servants.

The High Commissioner also visited the Geometric Power Company, met the team developing the Abia Innovation Industrial Park, and the Aba Chamber of Commerce.

He also toured an industrial fair showcasing small and medium scale manufacturers. Discussions focused on the opportunities for growth and partnerships with UK businesses where possible. He sought their insights and advice on efforts to advance UK investment in the state.

The UK delegation included the UK’s Country Director for the Department for Business and Trade, Mark Smithson, and the British High Commission’s Political Counsellor, Tom Burge.

They also visited the National War Museum in Umuahia which showcases the history of Nigeria.

At the end of the visit, the British High Commissioner, Dr. Richard Montgomery, said:

“Visiting Abia State for the first time was a great opportunity to engage and interact with key stakeholders.

 “Abia state is key to boosting Nigeria’s economic prosperity and the UK is committed to driving that growth.

 “We very much want to develop our partnership – both with the state government and the good people of Abia State – to enhance prosperity in the region.”

Mark Smithson, the UK’s country director for the Department for Business and Trade, said:

“The UK’s Department for Business and Trade in Nigeria is well placed to support the Abia State government and the private sector to drive trade in the state.

“We look forward to building on discussions we had, strengthening our ties and exploring areas of collaboration and partnerships to boost trade, and deliver prosperity to both our countries.”

During the two-day visit, the British High Commissioner visited Siminalayi Fubara, the Rivers State Governor, and paid his respects to Sir Dr Peter Odili, the former State Governor.

They discussed the strong economic partnership that has existed between Rivers State and the UK, recent developments and future opportunities.

The High Commissioner also visited Shell Nigeria and Indorama at their operational bases.

Discussions focused on the opportunities for growth and improvements in the extraction and manufacturing sections.

He sought their views on efforts to advance UK investment in the state, and possible areas of partnerships to help boost economic growth and job creation.

The High Commissioner met with NGOs and Nigerian government actors working on oil clean up and representatives of civil society organisations, operating across rivers State and the wider Niger Delta.

Stakeholders gave a run down on the implementation of their programmes and some of the great opportunities for the state, to lead on efforts to combat environmental damage, climate change and improve sustainable livelihoods.

At the end of the visit, the British High Commissioner, Richard Montgomery, said:

“Rivers State is particularly important as a large economy, with strong assets and institutions, important for Nigeria’s national economy.

“My visit was a good opportunity to engage and interact with key players.

“I came to listen and learn about recent developments, and gather insights about some of our UK-Nigeria economic partnerships: the impact they have made so far, and the potential for more.

“We very much want to continue developing these bonds – both with governments and civil society – to enhance prosperity within the region.”

Today, he officially presented his credentials to President Muhammadu Buhari at the State House in Abuja.

He takes over from Ms Catriona Laing CB who recently concluded four years as High Commissioner in Abuja.

Richard is an experienced diplomat who has worked in different parts of the world including previously in Nigeria. 

Prior to becoming the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard was the UK Executive Director at the World Bank Group Board from 2018 to 2022 in Washington DC, USA.

He has held various senior positions in the Department of International Development (DFID).

These included Director for Asia, Caribbean & Overseas Territories Division, Country Director for Pakistan, and prior to that Country Director in Nigeria from 2009 to 2013.

Prior to these operational roles Richard was Deputy Director for Corporate Human Resources and Deputy Head in DFID’s Top Management Group.

Earlier in his career, he did postings in British High Commissions in Zambia, Bangladesh and India.

Richard is married to Naheed and together they have two children. He and his wife are looking forward to their second stay in Nigeria.

To mark his arrival Richard Montgomery said:

“It’s great to be back in Nigeria. I look forward to working with the people of this great country, including those in government, in the private sector and in civil society, to do all I can to help build a more prosperous Nigeria and strengthen the partnership between our countries.”