Deadline: December 9, 2025
The Chief S.L. Edu Memorial PhD Research Grant 2026 is a prestigious annual research grant established by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) with sponsorship from Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL). This grant supports high-quality doctoral research that advances sustainable natural resource management in Nigeria, focusing on biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, and environmental sustainability.
For 2026, the theme is:
“Restoring Ecosystems and Strengthening Climate Resilience for Sustainable Development in Nigeria.”
This research grant aims to empower Nigerian scholars whose work contributes to solving pressing environmental and sustainability challenges, thereby promoting a more resilient and sustainable Nigeria.
Objectives of the Grant
The Chief S.L. Edu Memorial PhD Research Grant 2026 seeks to:
- Encourage advanced research in natural sciences, social sciences, and environmental law.
- Support innovative PhD projects that align with Nigeria’s national environmental goals.
- Foster evidence-based solutions that promote the restoration of ecosystems and climate resilience.
- Build capacity among young Nigerian researchers for leadership in environmental conservation.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be considered eligible:
- Be a citizen of Nigeria.
- Hold an M.Sc. degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as the natural sciences, social sciences, or environmental law (particularly those related to natural resource or environmental management).
- Be enrolled in a PhD programme at a recognised Nigerian university in one of the eligible fields.
- Submit a research proposal that aligns with the 2026 theme and supports NCF’s mission and vision.
Application Requirements
Interested applicants must submit the following documents:
- Supervisor’s Progress Report:
- A progress report from your PhD supervisor (on official letterhead) confirming the status and significance of your ongoing research.
- This report must be written and signed by the supervisor.
- Justification Statement (200 words):
- A concise statement explaining how your research aligns with the 2026 theme and contributes to biodiversity conservation or environmental management in Nigeria.
- Detailed Project Proposal (3,000 words):
- The proposal must include:
- Title
- Introduction / Statement of Problem
- Objectives
- Methodology
- Expected Outputs
- The proposal must include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV):
- Maximum of two (2) pages, highlighting relevant academic and research experience.
- Admission Letter:
- A scanned copy confirming your PhD enrolment at a recognised Nigerian university.
📌 Note:
- Only one proposal per applicant will be accepted.
- Hardcopy submissions will not be considered – all applications must be submitted online.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the Chief S.L. Edu Memorial PhD Research Grant 2026 is 9 December 2025.
Early submission is strongly encouraged to allow time for review and supervisor validation.
Additional Tips for Applicants
- Ensure your research fits clearly within ecosystem restoration, climate resilience, or sustainable development in Nigeria.
- Collaborate closely with your PhD supervisor to provide a strong progress report.
- Clearly demonstrate how your research outcomes will benefit biodiversity conservation and environmental management in Nigeria.
- Maintain concise, evidence-based writing throughout your proposal.
- Prepare all documents well ahead of the deadline to avoid disqualification.
About the Chief S.L. Edu Memorial Grant
The grant commemorates Chief Shafi Lawal Edu, a pioneer Nigerian environmentalist and the founding father of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF). It reflects his lifelong dedication to conservation, environmental protection, and sustainable development in Nigeria.
Through this programme, NCF and Chevron Nigeria Limited continue to uphold Chief Edu’s legacy by supporting research that strengthens Nigeria’s environmental future.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare their documents carefully and submit their application through the official NCF application portal.
For more information about the eligibility criteria, theme, and submission details:
🔗 Read more about the Chief S.L. Edu Memorial PhD Research Grant 2026 here
Need Help with Your Application?
If you need professional assistance with proposal drafting, refining, or review, contact us for proposal drafting, refinning and review.
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