The AIG Scholarships were launched in 2017 to provide a unique learning opportunity for exceptional West Africans to pursue a Master of Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford. Since 2017, twenty-nine (29) scholarships worth over £50,000 each have been awarded to future public sector leaders who have demonstrated a passion for the public sector.

AIG Scholars spend the year at one of the world’s top universities, gaining knowledge and skills from the outstanding academic faculty and expert practitioners and interacting with other future public sector leaders from around the world. After completing their degree, Scholars return to their countries and use their learnings to bolster policymaking, support reforms and contribute to their nation’s development.

From 2022, the AIG Scholarships will only be open to applicants already working in the civil service. Applicants should be aged between 25 and 45, with strong intellectual capacity, demonstrable leadership qualities and a passion to contribute to the development of the Nigeria’s civil service.

Candidates will be chosen based on their public sector experience and achievements, proven leadership qualities, intellectual abilities, and personal motivations and ambitions.

To be eligible for consideration for the award of 2023-24 AIG Scholarships:

• Applicants must be a Nigerian currently working in the public sector (Ministries, Departments, Agencies & Parastatals) at both Federal and State levels
• Aged between 25 and 45 years
• Have a minimum of seven (7) years (combined private & public sector) work experience
• Have a bachelor's degree with a minimum of second-class upper qualification
• Gain admission into the Blavatnik School of Government following success in the AIG shortlisting process

Academic distinction and leadership potential are essential priorities for selection.

Only applicants shortlisted for the next stage of the selection process will be contacted, and any inquiries regarding individual application status will not be responded to.

All applications must be submitted via the online application portal using the link below. Applications sent via post or submitted in person will NOT be accepted.

Candidates who emerge as finalists selection process will be required to apply directly to the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford, for admission.

Finalists offered admission to the Master of Public Policy will be considered by the school for the AIG Scholarship.

Financial Support – Funding will be provided for tuition, living expenses, and a stipend for a summer project.

Coaching and Mentoring – Extensive coaching and mentoring will be offered to help scholars navigate their time at Oxford and make the most of the experience.

Career Development – AIG Scholars will receive full support to map out their career development paths and access opportunities that are aligned with their areas of interest as they leverage the knowledge gained at Oxford

Work Experience – AIG Scholars will embark on summer placements during which they will gain additional knowledge and experience of their areas of interest and build their global networks.