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FG to Equip 37 Polytechnics Under Skills-G Phase Two

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FG to Equip 37 Polytechnics Under Skills-G Phase Two

The Ministry of Education has announced that about 37 polytechnics across Nigeria will receive modern industry-grade equipment under the second phase of its Skills-G programme.

In a statement shared via X on Wednesday, the ministry said the federal government has inaugurated a ministerial implementation and monitoring committee to oversee engineering and laboratory upgrades in the country’s polytechnics as part of the programme.

“Priority areas include mechatronics, robotics, renewable energy, telecommunications, electronics, and automobile engineering to align training with labour market demands,” the statement reads.

The ministry explained that the committee will be chaired by the Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE). It added that the committee is expected to monitor implementation to ensure accountability and also recommend institutions that will benefit from the third phase of the programme in 2026.

According to the statement, the federal government, through the support of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), remains committed to closing skills gaps and delivering globally competitive, industry-relevant technical education.

The Skills-G Programme is described as a long-standing federal government initiative focused on upgrading science, engineering, and technical equipment in Nigerian tertiary institutions, especially polytechnics.

Supported by TETFund, the programme is part of Nigeria’s broader push toward skills-based education and complements the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiative launched in October 2025 to produce entrepreneurs rather than job seekers.

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Ekiti sponsors 12,000 students with free JAMB forms, scholarships since 2022

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Ekiti sponsors 12,000 students with free JAMB forms, scholarships since 2022

No fewer than 12,000 students have benefited from the Ekiti State Government’s free Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) forms programme since Governor Biodun Oyebanji assumed office in October 2022.

The Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Student Affairs, Modupe Adetiba, disclosed that 3,400 students are benefiting from the scheme this year alone.

She explained that the initiative is part of the administration’s effort to improve access to higher education and help students achieve their academic goals.

Speaking on Ekiti Loni, Ekiti Today, a live radio programme in Ado Ekiti, Ms Adetiba said the governor has prioritised students’ welfare through policies designed to transform their lives.

She added that the state government has paid over N600 million in West African Examinations I Council (WAEC) fees for 17,859 public school students who sat for the 2025 West African Senior School Certificate Examination.

According to her, more than N25 million was also paid for the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) examinations for 800 students in government technical colleges across the state.

Ms Adetiba said free Information and Communication Technology (ICT) training and coaching classes are being organised for beneficiaries of the free JAMB programme. The training is coordinated through the State Agency for Adult and Non-Formal Education in each of the 16 local government areas to prepare students adequately for the examination.

She noted that the programme is open to all residents of the state, not only indigenes. However, to qualify for the free UTME forms, students must have obtained at least seven credits in their WAEC examinations. She said this requirement is to ensure proper monitoring and prevent wastage.

The governor’s aide also highlighted increases in bursaries and scholarships under the current administration.

She said the bursary for undergraduates has been increased from N20,000 to N40,000, while undergraduate scholarships were raised from N80,000 to N100,000, with over 6,000 beneficiaries recorded since the governor assumed office.

She further stated that more than 2,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students, including PhD candidates, have received scholarships of N100,000, N250,000 and N750,000 respectively.

Law School scholarships were also increased in January from N150,000 to N300,000, with 754 students benefiting since the governor took office.

Ms Adetiba added that students living with disabilities have been given special consideration, with their scholarship awards increased to N120,000, compared to N100,000 for other undergraduate students.

She also announced that the Ekiti State Scholarship Board has opened a three-week window for online applications for scholarship and bursary support, urging eligible students to apply through the board’s website.

NDPC, NYSC to train 100 Corps Members per dtate as Data Protection Officers

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NDPC, NYSC to train 100 Corps Members per dtate as Data Protection Officers

The Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has expressed interest in partnering with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to provide training on data privacy and protection for Nigerians.

The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the NYSC National Directorate Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.

Olatunji explained that the proposed partnership would strengthen digital skills acquisition among Corps Members and prepare them for opportunities in the growing digital economy. According to him, the commission has identified about 500,000 data processors and controllers across the country who would require the services of trained data protection officers.

He said the data protection sector offers strong employment prospects and supports the Federal Government’s job creation drive.

Under the proposed collaboration, Olatunji said the NDPC would train NYSC staff free of charge and also grant them access to its Virtual Privacy Academy (VPA). He added that 100 Corps Members in each state of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory would be trained and certified as Data Protection Officers.

“By law, it is mandatory for all Ministries, Department and Agencies of the Federal Government to process data in accordance with the provisions of the Nigerian Telecommunications Act of year 2023,” he said.

Olatunji commended the NYSC for being the best compliant Federal Government Agency on data protection in the country and praised the Scheme’s contributions to Nigeria’s socio-economic advancement since inception.

He stressed the need to put adequate measures in place to protect information shared online by internet users and advocated the appointment of data processing officers in all NYSC formations nationwide.

In his response, the NYSC Director-General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, described data protection and security as essential for building confidence in the digital economy.

He welcomed the proposal and pledged to integrate the training into the Scheme’s Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.

Nafiu noted that Corps Members are active on social media but acknowledged an existing gap in data protection knowledge, adding that the partnership would empower them to serve as strong advocates of data protection.

Both agencies agreed to establish a committee to fast track a Memorandum of Understanding for nationwide implementation of the partnership.

Akwa Ibom Launches Ward Cooperative Scheme for 1,100 Women

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Akwa Ibom Launches Ward Cooperative Scheme for 1,100 Women

The Akwa Ibom State Government has launched a ward-based cooperative empowerment drive targeting 1,100 women in Mbo Local Government Area as part of efforts to expand women-owned businesses and strengthen grassroots economic participation across the state.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Umo Eno at a women’s mobilisation meeting in Mbo, Deputy Governor Sen. Akon Eyakenyi said the initiative would register 100 women in each ward, allowing them to access structured financial and agricultural support through the state’s cooperative framework.

She said the programme aligns with the governor’s vision to help women “start small and grow big,” stressing that economic independence for women remains central to the administration’s development agenda.

According to Eyakenyi, each of the 31 local government areas is entitled to N1 billion under the cooperative scheme to support small-scale enterprises and agricultural ventures.

“The governor, being an entrepreneur himself, understands the challenges small business owners face. This support is designed to give women the tools and capital they need to thrive,” she said.

The deputy governor described women as the largest and most influential voting bloc in the country and urged them to take advantage of the ongoing ward-by-ward registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission. She also encouraged women to obtain their National Identification Number (NIN), describing it as critical for accessing government programmes and opportunities.

Eyakenyi further noted that the South-South region had benefited politically from the emergence of Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She called on women to continue supporting Akpabio, Eno and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. She also commended the Oro people and residents of Mbo for the warm reception given to the delegation.

Hon. Martins Esin, member representing Oron Federal Constituency, urged women to show their support for the state government by actively participating in voter and NIN registration. He described Eno as a leader committed to grassroots development.

Chief Etim Johnson, member representing Mbo State Constituency, announced plans to donate a vehicle to a resident as part of his contribution to community development.

Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Princess Emem Ibanga, called for sustained mobilisation among women, saying their participation remains central to governance, elections and social progress.

Mbo Council Chairman, Hon. Sunday Etim, said the governor’s development efforts were already visible across the local government and pledged continued collaboration with the state to ensure women benefit fully from the empowerment scheme.

The cooperative registration exercise is expected to begin across wards in the coming weeks, with beneficiaries gaining access to funding, training and business support services.

NADDC Flags Off 2026 Argungu Motor Rally in Abuja

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NADDC Flags Off 2026 Argungu Motor Rally in Abuja

The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), in collaboration with the Kebbi State Government, has officially flagged off the Argungu Motor Rally 2026 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

The event, held on 11th February 2026, marks the beginning of activities lined up for the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Director-General of NADDC, Otunba Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, said he was honoured to officiate the flag-off of the Auto Rally. He commended the organisers for their vision and commitment in bringing the initiative to life.

According to him, the Motor Rally represents the convergence of four critical elements: “art, culture, technology, and innovation,” showcasing Nigeria’s rich heritage alongside advancements in the automotive sector.

Osanipin also expressed gratitude to indigenous vehicle assemblers, including Lanre Shittu Motors, CIG Motors, KOJO Motors and Mikano Motors, for providing the vehicles participating in the rally. He noted that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Nigeria First Policy, which encourages the patronage of Made-in-Nigeria products. He added that all vehicles on display and those participating in the rally were assembled locally.

He explained that the rally route will traverse diverse terrains from Abuja through Kaduna to Kano; from Kano through Zamfara to Sokoto; onward to Birnin Kebbi; and finally to Argungu. According to him, this demonstrates the capacity and maturity of Nigeria’s automotive industry.

Osanipin reaffirmed that the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI) remains committed to working with ministries, departments and agencies willing to patronise and promote Made-in-Nigeria goods.

The event attracted dignitaries and key stakeholders, including the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning of Nigeria, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, the representative of Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc, Hajiya Salamatu Hussaini, the Managing Director of OMAA Motors, and the Chief Executive Officer of CIG Motors.

PalmPay Valentine Campaign Offers ₦100,000 to Couples

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PalmPay Valentine Campaign Offers ₦100,000 to Couples

PalmPay Nigeria has launched a Valentine’s campaign giving couples the chance to win ₦100,000 by sharing their love stories online. The company announced that participants should show how love and money meet in their relationship for a chance to get rewarded. According to the post, four couples per platform will win every week during the campaign period.

To participate, couples are required to create a 30–60 second video, a thread, or a photo carousel. They must share their real love story and clearly show PalmPay, either through the app or the PalmPay card. Entries must be posted on Facebook, Instagram, X, or TikTok, and participants are required to use the hashtag LoveWithPalmPay.

The campaign runs from February 9 to February 21. Winners will be selected from eligible entries posted within this period.

The initiative encourages creativity and storytelling while promoting the use of PalmPay’s digital payment services. Couples interested in participating are advised to carefully follow all entry guidelines to increase their chances of winning.

Apply: She Code Africa Mentorship Program (Cycle 4)

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Apply: She Code Africa Mentorship Program (Cycle 4)

The She Code Africa Mentorship Program (Cycle 4) is now open for applications. This fourth cycle of the program continues She Code Africa’s mission to support and empower women in technology by providing structured mentorship and professional guidance.

The She Code Africa Mentorship Program is designed for women in tech who are seeking clarity, direction, and career growth through mentorship. Whether you are navigating a career transition or looking for guidance to level up in your current role, this program offers the structure and supportive community you need to move forward with confidence.

Through this mentorship initiative, participants will be matched with experienced mentors in their chosen learning tracks. The available tracks for this cycle include Data Analysis, Frontend Development, UI/UX Design, and Product Management. Each track is carefully curated to provide relevant insights, practical guidance, and industry-based knowledge to help mentees grow in their respective fields.

This cycle will run for three weeks, with mandatory virtual sessions held every Wednesday and Thursday from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm WAT. During this period, mentees will work closely with their assigned mentors and a small group of fellow participants. Together, they will set clear goals, discuss career challenges, explore digital opportunities, and develop both soft and technical skills relevant to their chosen career paths.

The program is structured to encourage collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning. Participants are expected to actively engage in all sessions and group activities to fully benefit from the mentorship experience.

The application deadline for Cycle 4 is 6th March 2026. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply before the deadline.

To apply, interested applicants should visit the official application form at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScphWdC1lloJ2XwquokTPMSFQee5Y5Ampf_qyDjvhhzPCrmIA/viewform.

Innov8 Hub Hiring Product Visualization Specialist

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Innov8 Hub Hiring Product Visualization Specialist

Innov8 Hub has announced that it is hiring a Product Visualization Specialist to support its growing innovation and research activities in Nigeria.

The not-for-profit innovation hub said it is looking for someone who can turn raw ideas into powerful visuals, prototypes, mockups, and renders that make innovation tangible.

If you can translate concepts into compelling product visuals that make people say, ‘wow, I get it now,’ Innov8 Hub want you on its team.

Innov8 Hub described itself as a platform focused on empowering innovators, researchers, creators, and entrepreneurs to transform bold ideas into measurable impact. The hub operates through innovation, research & development, prototype development, start-up incubation, mentorship, entrepreneurship, community and human capital development to drive socio-economic development across Nigeria and beyond.

The available role is for a Product Visualization Specialist. Innov8 Hub is seeking a 3D Product Visualization Artist with at least two years of experience to create high quality, realistic product visuals in collaboration with cross functional teams.

The role involves working in Blender to handle CAD data, build physically accurate materials, lighting, animations, and physics based simulations, while optimizing scenes for performance. The ideal candidate is expected to have a strong eye for composition, understand CMF and industrial design intent, integrate UI UX elements, manage complex assets efficiently, and apply post production polish. Experience with Unreal Engine or real-time visualization is considered an added advantage.

Required competencies include advanced proficiency in Blender and render engines, strong CAD data handling skills including STP, STEP and IGES files, mastery of PBR-based shading and texturing, excellent lighting and composition skills, and expertise in product animation such as mechanical assemblies and exploded views.

The position is full time and permanent, mid-level, and based on-site in Lugbe, Abuja. Applicants must have a minimum of two years’ experience. Interested candidates are to apply through https://innov8hub.ng/careers/.

L-PRES Holds DBN Livestock Training in Yola with Minister Maiha

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L-PRES Holds DBN Livestock Training in Yola with Minister Maiha

Day 3 of the DBN Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project Regional Training was held in Yola, Adamawa State, with the Honourable Minister for Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, in attendance.

The training comes after a successful launch in Enugu as L-PRES moves to strengthen MSMEs and PFIs in the North-East zone through targeted capacity building in livestock agribusiness financing.

The Minister was received by the Head of Business Development, Ayodele Ojosipe, and the DBN team.

“South East (Enugu) completed. North East (Yola) ongoing. Four zones to go,” the organisers said.

Working with the World Bank, the project aims to bridge the livestock agribusiness finance gap across Nigeria.

Jigawa trains artisans on CNG conversion ahead of new centres

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Jigawa trains artisans on CNG conversion ahead of new centres

No fewer than 120 artisans across Jigawa State have been trained on Compressed Natural Gas conversion, maintenance and safety, as the state government moves to establish CNG conversion centres to support Nigeria’s alternative energy drive.

The three-day practical training was organised by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board in collaboration with Hatfield Global Resources and Safe AutoGas Ltd. It was designed to equip youths and artisans with the skills needed to convert petrol-powered vehicles to CNG-powered vehicles.

Nigeria Startup News reports that the development comes as the Jigawa State Government works to provide CNG conversion centres across the state. The initiative is aimed at creating jobs, reducing fuel costs and promoting energy efficiency.

It would be recalled that on February 4, 2025, the Jigawa State Government announced it had invested over N132 million in developing a natural gas conversion training centre in Dutse and other parts of the state.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with the PUNCH during the closing session held at the Manpower Development Institute in Dutse on Wednesday, the representative of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, Torunarigha K. Cash, said, “We’re here to ensure the training is guided according to the prescribed manual of the board.”

Cash, who oversaw the programme, explained that the initiative formed part of efforts to ensure the success of the CNG transition across the country. He emphasised that, “The training was rigorous and fantastic, aimed at empowering Nigerian youths and artisans to learn CNG conversion skills.”

According to him, the board remains committed to promoting energy efficiency nationwide, adding that, “The training was part of efforts to promote energy efficiency in Nigeria.”

Revealing more details about the practical sessions, Cash stated, “The training, which was practical-oriented, saw about ten different kinds of vehicles converted from petroleum-powered to CNG-powered for free.”

Also speaking during the training, the organiser and Chief Executive Officer of Hatfield Global Resources Ltd, Safiya Idris Hadejia, described the programme as the first of its kind in the state.

“What we’re doing is in line with the Nigerian Gas Expansion Programme. The initiative aimed to empower 120 youths and artisans with CNG conversion skills,” she said.

Hadejia explained that the Federal Government is making deliberate efforts to ensure youths are empowered to benefit from the CNG initiative. She said, “The federal government is making a lot of effort towards ensuring that the youths are empowered.

“We selected about 120 youth beneficiaries to give them this training, and the participants comprised both male and female.”

She appealed to other young people to take advantage of similar opportunities. “I’m appealing to all those young artisans and youths that are out there that are looking for something to do to keep looking for opportunities like this,” she added.

Hadejia further disclosed that the Jigawa State Government is constructing four CNG conversion centres across the state, located in Dutse, Hadejia, Kazaure and Gumel Emirates.

“We hope these young men will be employed to work and run those CNG conversion centres when they’re complete and inaugurated,” she said.

Speaking on the performance of the participants, she noted, “The trainees showed a lot of passion and commitment during the training,” adding, “So far from what we have seen, I’m very, very happy with the attitude of all the youth participants.”

She also revealed that “Hatfield Global Resources Ltd is working on organising another version of the training soon.”

Some of the beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the opportunity. Ahmed Musa, a Keke-Napep rider, said, “I’m happy to learn this skill; it will help me earn a living.”

Another participant, Fatima Abdullahi, said she was excited about the training. “I want to start my own CNG conversion business,” she said.

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