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Akwa Ibom to build hotels, housing estate in Abuja to boost revenue, jobs

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Akwa Ibom to build hotels, housing estate in Abuja to boost revenue, jobs

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has disclosed plans to develop the Ibom Hotels and Apartments Project in Abuja as part of efforts to generate revenue for the state and create employment opportunities, alongside the proposed development of an Ibom Housing Estate in the Federal Capital Territory to provide affordable accommodation for Akwa Ibom indigenes.

The governor made this known during a visit to the Akwa Ibom Community in Abuja, where he attended the community’s general meeting on Sunday, February 8, 2026, and engaged members on the development priorities of his administration under the ARISE Agenda. He assured indigenes resident in Abuja of more developmental projects, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth, strategic asset repositioning, and improved welfare for citizens both at home and in the diaspora.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Eno said the Ibom Hotels and Apartments Project would replace the moribund old liaison office, transforming the asset into a viable hospitality and commercial hub capable of generating revenue for the state and creating jobs for residents. He also announced plans for the development of an Ibom Housing Estate in Abuja, aimed at providing decent and affordable housing for Akwa Ibom people living in the nation’s capital.

Beyond road infrastructure, the governor highlighted several projects being executed across multiple sectors, stressing that development under the ARISE Agenda goes beyond road construction. According to him, the administration has completed and ongoing projects covering a total of 1,210 kilometres of roads across the state, while also implementing 84 priority projects strategically spread across tourism, transportation, aviation, maritime development, healthcare, education, rural development, housing, water supply, and economic empowerment.

“Our development drive is holistic. Beyond roads, we have deliberately focused on projects that directly touch lives and strengthen communities across Akwa Ibom State,” Governor Eno said.

Earlier, the President of the Akwa Ibom Community in Abuja, Nkpisong Barrister Gabriel Fan, commended the governor for the developmental strides recorded under the ARISE Agenda. He pledged the full support of the community for the reelection of President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno ahead of the 2027 general elections. Fan also decorated the governor as the Grand Patron of the community in recognition of his leadership style and commitment to the welfare of Akwa Ibom people.

In a further demonstration of his commitment to the community, Governor Eno donated an 18-seater bus to the Akwa Ibom Community in Abuja, a gesture that drew applause from members and invited guests. He commended the leadership of the community for promoting unity and maintaining strong ties with developments back home, noting that Akwa Ibom people resident in Abuja remain critical stakeholders in the state’s development efforts.

Members and leaders of the community praised the governor’s inclusive leadership approach, people-centred governance, and visible development strides. They assured him of their continued support, describing the visit as one that strengthened ties between Akwa Ibom State and its diaspora community in Abuja and reinforced the governor’s resolve to carry every citizen along in the state’s development process going forward.

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Lagos launches household used cooking oil kiosks to boost income

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Lagos launches household used cooking oil kiosks to boost income

Ororo Waste Management, in collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and with the support of Shell, has launched Household Used Cooking Oil Collection Kiosks to enable residents and players in the informal economy to earn income while supporting environmental protection in Lagos State.

The launch event, held at the LASEPA Conference Room, Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, brought together stakeholders from the public and private sectors focused on waste to value solutions, public health protection, youth empowerment, and responsible environmental management.

In his welcome address, the General Manager of LASEPA, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, described the initiative as a strategic step toward environmental protection, climate action, and economic empowerment. He said used cooking oil plays a critical role in the global biofuel supply chain and noted that Lagos has the potential to unlock a minimum twenty million dollar market due to its population size and cooking habits.

Dr. Ajayi explained that improper disposal of used cooking oil contributes to blocked drainage systems, flooding, road damage, groundwater contamination, and disease outbreaks. He added that reheating cooking oil multiple times poses serious health risks, making structured collection important for public health and environmental sustainability.

According to him, the initiative will establish collection points across all LASEPA zonal offices, including the agency headquarters, where residents will be incentivized for turning in used cooking oil. He said linking environmental compliance with economic value will encourage voluntary participation and ensure long term sustainability.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director and Project Lead of Ororo Waste Management, Mr. Ayo Banjo, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to building a circular economy around used cooking oil. He stated that environmental sustainability and economic empowerment are interconnected, adding that households account for between fifty and sixty percent of used cooking oil generation.

Mr. Banjo said Ororo Waste Management has worked closely with LASEPA for several years to drive compliance and collection among restaurants, hotels, and commercial kitchens. He explained that the household kiosk rollout represents the next phase of the initiative and creates dignified income opportunities for waste pickers, youths, and micro entrepreneurs, while positioning Lagos and Nigeria as contributors to the global biofuel supply chain.

Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Students’ Union Affairs (Tertiary Education), Mr. Samuel Kappo, commended LASEPA and Ororo Waste Management for the initiative. He described it as a step toward a safer and healthier Lagos and emphasized the role of students and young people in ensuring the success of the program.

The event concluded with the official unveiling of the Household Used Cooking Oil Collection Kiosk Initiative by the General Manager of LASEPA alongside key stakeholders, marking the commencement of the initiative across Lagos State.

LASEPA encouraged residents to actively participate by depositing their used cooking oil at designated Ororo UCO kiosks located at LASEPA zonal offices and approved collection points, reinforcing collective responsibility toward environmental protection, public health, and sustainable waste management. The program is expected to expand access and awareness statewide quickly.

FG Reopens Tsamiya Border Corridor to Strengthen Trade and Security

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FG Reopens Tsamiya Border Corridor to Strengthen Trade and Security

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to secure border governance and improved trade facilitation following the Federal Government’s approval to reopen the Tsamiya Border Corridor. This was disclosed during a high-level stakeholders’ engagement held on Saturday, 7 February 2026, at the Government House in Kebbi State.

The engagement brought together security agencies, traditional leaders, economic operators, and international customs representatives to review practical steps for strengthening Nigeria’s northwest border architecture while allowing legitimate transit trade to operate smoothly under strict compliance measures.

The reopening of the Tsamiya Corridor reflects the Service’s ongoing effort to balance national security priorities with trade facilitation goals, especially along key land routes and the River Niger corridor that links Nigeria with neighbouring countries.

Speaking at the event, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, stressed the need for structured inter-agency and cross-border cooperation to address evolving transit trade and security challenges.

According to him, “Criminal elements operate through cooperation, shared resources, and organised networks. This makes it imperative for security agencies to work together in a coordinated manner to effectively counter such threats.”

He explained that the NCS is engaging customs authorities from the Niger Republic and the Republic of Benin, with support from the political leadership of President Bola Tinubu and President Patrice Talon, to resolve long-standing transit trade issues through coordinated Customs-to-Customs collaboration.

“Diversion of goods in transit is not peculiar to Nigeria; it is a cross-border challenge that requires coordinated enforcement, clear guidelines, and strict compliance to ensure that goods reach their intended destinations,” Adeniyi stated.

The CGC further noted that operations along the Tsamiya Corridor will be guided by enhanced monitoring measures, including ICT-driven interconnectivity systems, improved profiling of licensed customs agents, and close surveillance of goods in transit. He warned that any truck found outside the approved route would be seized and offenders prosecuted in line with existing transit regulations, adding that recent prosecutions demonstrate the Service’s firm enforcement stance.

Adeniyi also commended the Kebbi State Government for promoting a coordinated security environment and acknowledged the contributions of retired senior customs officers from the state to the growth of the Service and national security.

In his remarks, the Executive Governor of Kebbi State, Nasir Idris, reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting Customs and other security agencies through the provision of logistics, infrastructure, and community engagement across border areas.

“The Kebbi State Government remains committed to prioritising security and creating an enabling environment for security agencies to operate effectively, while ensuring that border communities benefit from sustained development,” the governor said.

The stakeholders’ engagement attracted the Immediate Past Governor of Kebbi State and Honourable Minister of Budget and National Planning, Atiku Bagudu, as well as another former governor, Usman Dakingari. Also in attendance were customs officials from the Republic of Benin, representatives of the Office of the National Security Adviser, heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, and key economic operators. Participants expressed confidence that the renewed collaboration would enhance border security, strengthen regional trade, and position Kebbi State as a strategic hub for lawful economic activities.

FG unveils AI-powered Oluremi Tinubu Dream Centre

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FG unveils AI-powered Oluremi Tinubu Dream Centre

The Federal Government has unveiled the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Dream Centre, a digital experience hub, at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, designed to use artificial intelligence, digital tools, and storytelling to educate, inspire, and digitally preserve history.

The unveiling took place during the commissioning and handover of the facility, where the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa, described the project as a landmark innovation that blends technology with culture and history.

According to Inuwa, the centre pioneers the fusion of digital technology, artificial intelligence, and storytelling to preserve Nigerian history, with a strong focus on the life and values of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, whom he referred to as the “Mother of the Nation.”

Speaking at the event, Inuwa highlighted her personal and professional journey, noting that she began her career as a classroom teacher before becoming the supportive wife of the governor of Lagos State, Nigeria’s most populous and economically vital state. He said she later rose to serve as a senator in the National Assembly, operating within a challenging and male-dominated political environment.

He added that Senator Tinubu also served as an ordained minister, remaining steadfast in her faith through trials, and has now excelled as First Lady, where she continues to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in providing national leadership.

Inuwa credited the success of the project to a strategic partnership, explaining that Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, delivered the physical structure, while NITDA deployed artificial intelligence-driven technology to “breathe new life” into the facility.

He explained that the Dream Centre was intentionally designed for Gen Z and Gen Alpha digital natives, many of whom no longer engage with traditional museums or archives. He said the centre brings Senator Tinubu’s story into their digital space through interactive and query-based experiences.

“Visitors can ask the AI about her roles, from teaching with patience and legislating with courage, to sustaining faith in adversity and navigating high-level governance with grace. Her life, described as four lives in one, guides youth through life’s complexities,” Inuwa said.

He stated that the Dream Centre is expected to inspire young Nigerians to build leadership skills, dream boldly, and pursue greatness in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for ambition and national progress.

NITDA, ITU partner to fast-track Nigeria’s digital economy

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NITDA, ITU partner to fast-track Nigeria’s digital economy

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening inter-agency collaboration to accelerate Nigeria’s digital transformation following a strategic engagement with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

The meeting was led by the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa, represented by Dimie Shively Warowie, PhD, Director of Corporate Planning and Strategy, who said the discussions aligned with a shared goal of delivering universal, meaningful, and affordable connectivity for all Nigerians while protecting the digital space.

According to Dr. Warowie, “NITDA is focused on building digital skills, strengthening cybersecurity resilience, supporting innovation and digital entrepreneurship, and harmonising regulatory frameworks and technical standards to enable growth across the digital economy.”

The ITU representative acknowledged Nigeria’s progress in digital regulation, noting the country’s attainment of G5-level collaborative regulation and commending the leadership of the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijjani.

The ITU added that it is ready to work closely with NITDA, stating that it would provide technical support, cybersecurity tools, and backing for initiatives that promote inclusive connectivity and functional digital transformation centres nationwide.

Both organisations agreed to prioritise digital literacy, cybersecurity capacity building, innovation support, school connectivity, and regulatory alignment as immediate areas of action.

The renewed engagement underscores a joint resolve to leverage institutional strengths and expertise to advance Nigeria’s digital transformation agenda, safeguard users, and build a more inclusive, secure, and competitive digital economy for citizens and businesses. Officials said timelines and delivery mechanisms will be agreed through technical sessions.

Apply: SDGs Advocate Programme (Cohort 8)

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Apply: SDGs Advocate Programme (Cohort 8)

Applications have opened for the SDGs Advocate Programme (Cohort 8), a four-month intensive training and advocacy initiative targeted at Nigerian youths interested in sustainable development and community impact.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Advocate Programme is structured as a 4-month learning experience that includes more than 20 lectures, original reading materials, and detailed assessments. The programme is designed to help participants gain a clearer understanding of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how these global goals connect to everyday challenges faced by communities across Nigeria.

The goal of the programme is to build a community of exceptional young leaders who will champion and promote SDGs advocacy across the nation. The initiative focuses on preparing young people to take active roles in advancing solutions within their local environments.

The programme is open to youths between the ages of 18 and 35 years and aims to support participants as SDGs advocates across the 36 states of Nigeria. It promotes youth participation in development efforts while encouraging long-lasting change at community level and contributions to global development targets.

The SDGs Advocate Programme seeks to create a world where every primary and secondary school student, household, or community group is equipped with the knowledge, values, and skills necessary for effectively responding to the most significant challenges of this century and shaping a sustainable and prosperous world.

Participants in the programme are expected to gain a deeper understanding of the SDGs, build effective leadership skills, and develop the ability to teach and inspire sustainability in schools and communities. The training also offers hands-on experience through projects designed to deliver impact, alongside practical advocacy and community engagement experience. In addition, participants will gain access to a network of young changemakers across Nigeria.

Eligibility criteria require applicants to be Nigerian citizens aged between 18 and 35 years, with the ability to commit at least four hours per week throughout the programme. Applicants must be available for virtual training sessions and show interest in acting as development and transformation agents. Prior knowledge of the SDGs 2030 agenda is not required.

Interested applicants are encouraged to complete and submit the application form before the deadline of 26 February 2026.

To apply, interested applicants should visit https://forms.gle/WD2gQexDMC9DziLfA and apply.

Katsina to deploy N8bn to scale Nigeria for Women Programme statewide

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Katsina to deploy N8bn to scale Nigeria for Women Programme statewide

The Katsina State Government has announced an N8 billion funding plan to scale up the Nigeria for Women Programme (NFWP) across all 34 local government areas of the state, targeting 41,000 Women Affinity Groups.

The Deputy Governor of Katsina State, Malam Faruk Lawal Jobe, disclosed this on Thursday while representing Governor Dikko Umaru Radda at the Presidential Launch of the Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up Project held at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja.

Malam Lawal explained that the World Bank currently supports the implementation of the programme in three local government areas with N500 million counterpart funding provided by the Katsina State Government. He added that the state has paid an additional N4 billion to extend the programme to the remaining 31 local government areas.

According to him, another N4 billion has been appropriated in the 2026 approved budget to further increase the number of beneficiaries. “The State Government took a deliberate decision to scale up the NFWP model statewide using the World Bank-approved implementation strategies. This will ensure consistency, transparency, and sustainability across all local government areas,” the Deputy Governor stated.

He noted that the programme is currently being implemented in Katsina, Daura, and Funtua local government areas, focusing on improving the livelihoods of vulnerable women through collective action, financial inclusion, skills development, and access to productive assets.

Malam Lawal said the three World Bank-supported local government areas will have 10,000 Women Affinity Groups, while the remaining 31 local government areas will have 1,000 groups each, bringing the total to 41,000 groups.

The Deputy Governor emphasized that economic empowerment of women contributes to reduced insecurity and social vulnerability. “Empowered women invest in peace within their households and communities. They are better positioned to guide and nurture their children, instilling positive values, discipline, and resilience in those who will become the leaders of tomorrow,” he said.

He added that empowered women are more committed to supporting their children’s education, ensuring school attendance, reducing dropout rates, and strengthening human capital development nationwide across communities in the state.

Malam Lawal disclosed that the state government is linking the Women Affinity Groups to the State Health Insurance Scheme to ensure that participating women and members of their households have access to affordable healthcare. “By reducing out-of-pocket health expenditures, women can reinvest more of their income into productive activities, nutrition, and education, thereby strengthening household resilience,” he explained.

He described the integrated approach combining livelihoods, health protection, education support, and community ownership as effective and sustainable.

Malam Lawal commended the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development and the World Bank for their leadership and partnership, and reaffirmed Katsina State’s commitment to sustaining the Nigeria for Women Programme.

“Empowering women is not only a social intervention; it is a strategic investment in security, economic stability, and national development,” the Deputy Governor stated.

Borno State senior secondary education board (BSSSEB) teachers recruitment 2026

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Borno State senior secondary education board (BSSSEB) teachers recruitment 2026

The Borno State Ministry of Education, Science Technology and Innovation (MOESTI), through the Senior Secondary Education Board (BSSSEB), has opened applications for the 2026 teachers recruitment into public senior secondary schools.

The recruitment targets suitably qualified candidates interested in building a career in the teaching profession within the Borno State public education system.

Applicants must be graduates of recognised higher institutions and not above fifty years of age. Eligible qualifications include NCE, HND, B.Sc., B.A., B.Ed., B.Sc. Ed., while possession of a valid NYSC Discharge or Exemption Certificate is mandatory.

Applicants must be willing to serve in any Local Government Area of Borno State and be eligible for registration with the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN).

Possession of teaching experience, a Professional Diploma in Education (PGDE) or equivalent qualification, and computer literacy will be considered an added advantage.

The application portal is open from Monday, 9 February 2026 to Saturday, 28 February 2026.

To apply for Borno State BSSSEB teachers recruitment, eligible candidates should submit their applications online through the official application portal https://www.moestibornostate.com.ng.

Over 500 students compete at FG national robotics challenge

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Over 500 students compete at FG national robotics challenge

Over 500 students participated in the 12th edition of the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) and FIRST LEGO League (FLL) National Robotics Competition held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

The event brought together students from Federal Unity Colleges, state and private secondary schools, as well as basic education institutions, giving them a platform to demonstrate innovation, teamwork, creativity and problem-solving skills in robotics, artificial intelligence and coding.

Through the programme, the Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to building a education system that equips young Nigerians with digital skills.

Speaking at the event, the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, described technology integration in education as a necessity. She said the Federal Government remains committed to strengthening STEAM education through sustained investment in digital skills, robotics and innovation-driven learning. She also commended partners supporting the initiative, including the Coderina EdTech Foundation.

The Director of Technology and Science Education, Dr. Mrs. Muyibat Adenike Olodo, described Nigeria’s youth as a strategic national asset. She highlighted the importance of inclusive innovation outcomes, noting that students showcased developed robotics solutions during the competition.

The competition ended with Queen’s College, Lagos, Aurora Team 2, emerging as Overall Champion and qualifying to represent Nigeria at the World Festival in Houston, Texas, alongside other teams representing the country internationally.

The event highlighted Nigeria’s footprint in robotics education and government commitment to inclusive education.

Anambra begins work on Silicon Valley Solution Innovation District

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Anambra begins work on Silicon Valley Solution Innovation District

The Government of Anambra State has commenced plans to establish a Silicon Valley–style technology hub following the transformation of the old Government House into the permanent site for the Solution Innovation District.

The old Government House previously served as the administrative seat of power in the state before activities were relocated to the new Government House, popularly known as the Light House, after its inauguration in June 2025.

The facility is being repurposed to host the Solution Innovation District, expected to serve as a shared space for innovators, inventors, technologists, social entrepreneurs, tech companies, government agencies, investors, digital tribes and smart artisans working on solutions to local and global challenges.

During an on-the-spot inspection on Sunday, Governor said the Solution Innovation District, covering between 12 and 13 hectares, is being designed to rival the infrastructure and output of , marking a shift in Anambra State’s urban and economic direction.

The governor explained that his visit was driven by the project’s alignment with the administration’s guiding philosophy of “Everything Technology, Technology Everywhere.”

According to Soludo, the direct involvement of the state government will ensure that construction work progresses as planned and that the district is delivered as a permanent base for the state’s expanding tech ecosystem.

He said, “I embarked on this on-the-spot inspection because the ambitious project aligns with the administration’s core philosophy of ‘Everything Technology, Technology Everywhere.’

“By centralising innovation within a dedicated physical space, the government aims to integrate digital solutions into every facet of the local economy and governance.

“The construction is currently in its first phase, with a work schedule aimed at completing the initial structures within the next few weeks.

“A follow-up visit has also been scheduled for the end of the month to monitor milestones. This approach ensures that the project remains on track to meet its goal of providing a permanent home for developers, engineers and entrepreneurs.”

Soludo added that the pace of work reflects the urgency of transitioning the state’s digital ecosystem from temporary facilities to a permanent headquarters.

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