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Apply: Africa CDC Data and Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) Training Programme

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Africa CDC, in collaboration with the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), invites applications for an 8-week Data and Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) Training Programme aimed at strengthening clinical trial safety oversight across Africa. The programme is designed to build technical capacity and expand the pool of trained experts who can support high-quality, ethical, and safe clinical research on the continent.

This call for applications targets professionals involved in health research, regulation, vaccine safety, and related fields who are interested in contributing to stronger systems for monitoring participant safety and data integrity in clinical trials.

About Africa CDC

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is an autonomous public health institution of the African Union. It supports African Union Member States in planning, preparing for, and responding to public health threats, disease outbreaks, and other health emergencies across the continent.

Africa CDC’s work is guided by core leadership principles that include credibility, ownership, delegated authority, timely dissemination of information, transparency, accountability, and value addition. These principles underpin its efforts to strengthen national and regional public health institutions and improve health outcomes for populations in Africa.

Within Africa CDC, the Science and Innovation division plays a critical role in advancing research quality and safety. Its mandate includes supporting effective safety monitoring in clinical trials to uphold ethical research standards and protect the well-being of trial participants. During clinical research, adverse events may arise from the administration of investigational products, making strong oversight systems essential for risk assessment, timely decision-making, and appropriate interventions.

About the Programme

The Data and Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) is a key independent body responsible for reviewing accumulating clinical trial data, safeguarding the safety of participants, and ensuring the scientific integrity of ongoing studies. Effective DSMBs are especially critical in vaccine trials and emergency research settings.

To strengthen DSMB expertise across Africa, Africa CDC, in collaboration with the Safety Platform for Emergency Vaccines (SPEAC), is offering a structured and comprehensive training course in data and safety monitoring. The programme aims to increase the availability of trained DSMB members who can contribute to ethical oversight of clinical trials and improve preparedness for emerging and re-emerging health threats.

The eight-week training programme combines self-paced online learning with live virtual sessions facilitated by experts in vaccine safety, clinical trial monitoring, and regulatory science. Upon successful completion, participants may be eligible to join the DSMB Pool, where they may be considered for future clinical trial oversight roles.

Training Course Outline

The training will cover the following core modules:

  • Introduction to Clinical Trials and DSMB
  • Vaccine Clinical Trials and Safety Monitoring
  • DSMB Roles and Decision-Making Processes
  • Regulatory and Ethical Considerations in Clinical Research
  • Safety Monitoring and Risk Assessment
  • Statistical Methods Relevant to DSMB Activities
  • DSMB Meetings and Case Discussions
  • Practical Applications, quizzes, and a final assessment

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for the Data and Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) Training Programme:

  • Applicants must be professionals currently working with or affiliated to an organisation involved in:
    • Vaccine safety surveillance
    • Clinical trials or research hubs
    • National Regulatory Authorities
    • National pharmacovigilance centres
    • Ethics committees
    • Other related health or research institutions
  • Applicants must possess a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent tertiary qualification in a relevant field. Higher academic qualifications such as a Master’s degree, PhD, DrPH, or MD are considered an added advantage.
  • Applicants must have relevant professional experience, with clearly stated years of experience in their field of practice.
  • Applicants should have a background or demonstrated interest in clinical trials and/or vaccine pharmacovigilance. Previous experience working on clinical trials or conducting active pharmacovigilance activities is strongly desirable.
  • Applicants must submit a detailed curriculum vitae outlining their professional background, roles, and relevant experience.
  • Applicants must provide a support letter from their employer or affiliated organisation confirming their role and institutional support for participation in the training programme.
  • Applicants must demonstrate strong motivation and commitment to complete the full 8-week training programme, including both self-paced modules and live virtual sessions.

Key Dates

  • Course start: 12 February 2026
  • Application deadline: 31 January 2026

How to Apply

Interested applicants are required to submit their applications online through the official application form provided by Africa CDC.

Link to apply: APPLY HERE

Read also: Commonwealth Adopts Nigeria’s NextGen Innovation Challenge

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FCCPC begins enforcement against digital loan operators

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The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has commenced a phased implementation of enforcement measures against Digital Money Lending operators that failed to regularise their status under the Digital, Electronic, Online and Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025, known as the DEON Regulations.

The Commission said the compliance deadline for affected digital lenders expired on Monday, 5 January 2026, marking the end of the transitional window earlier provided to operators in the sector.

Speaking on the commencement of enforcement, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Mr Tunji Bello, said the measures were necessary to give full effect to the Regulations and to maintain regulatory certainty in Nigeria’s digital lending market, in line with the Commission’s statutory mandate.

“The compliance window provided under the Regulations has now closed. At this stage, the Commission is proceeding with appropriate enforcement steps in a manner that is fair, orderly, and consistent with due process,” Bello said. “The objective is to promote discipline, transparency, and consumer confidence within the digital lending space, not to disrupt legitimate business activity.”

As part of the approved enforcement framework, the FCCPC has withdrawn the conditionally approved status previously granted to certain Digital Money Lending operators that failed to complete the required regularisation process within the transitional period.

As a result, the affected operators have been removed from the Commission’s published register of approved digital lenders, pending their compliance with applicable regulatory requirements under the law.

Bello explained that the FCCPC’s published register serves as an important consumer information tool designed to guide members of the public on digital lenders that have met regulatory requirements at the time of publication.

“The FCCPC’s register is intended to guide the public on operators that have met the applicable regulatory requirements as at the time of publication. Consumers are advised to exercise caution when dealing with digital lenders that do not appear on the Commission’s current list of approved operators,” he said.

The Commission also disclosed that it has commenced structured engagement with relevant application hosting platforms and payment service providers as part of ongoing enforcement and compliance monitoring activities, in line with its statutory functions.

For operators provisionally designated as eligible under transitional arrangements, the FCCPC has issued a fresh deadline of April 2026 to regularise their registration under the DEON Regulations.

“This window is provided to enable affected operators to take steps towards compliance. Operators that choose not to regularise their status within this period may be subject to further regulatory measures, as provided under the law,” Bello stated.

The Commission stressed that the enforcement process is intended to support market discipline, protect compliant operators from unfair competitive practices, and safeguard consumers from abusive or unlawful conduct. It said the measures align with its mandate under law.

Read also: VDM Trademarks Ratel Across All 45 Categories in Nigeria

VDM Trademarks Ratel Across All 45 Categories in Nigeria

VeryDarkMan (VDM) has announced that he has completed the registration of the name “Ratel” across all 45 trademark categories in Nigeria, following a public ownership dispute with businessman Blord over the brand.

VDM made the announcement on Wednesday in a lengthy statement posted online, where he insisted that the controversy forced him to take steps he had previously overlooked. “Initially, I registered only two trademark classes,” he said. “I didn’t know before that I needed to register everything. When this matter happened, I realised my mistake, and as of yesterday, the remaining classes were registered.”

Nigeria recognises 45 trademark classes under the international classification system, covering both goods and services. Referring to this framework, VDM said, “Trademark has 45 classes. As of now, all the classes belong to me. Everything now belongs to me.” He added that the registration process had already been completed and reflected in official records.

Beyond trademarks, VDM also claimed ownership of a registered company under the name Ratel Nigeria Limited, which he said further strengthened his position. “I have a company called Ratel Nigeria Limited,” he stated. “If I have that company name, nobody can register Ratel again as a company name. That is how it works.” According to him, the company was registered long before the current dispute, even though it had not been actively used for business.

The dispute was triggered after Blord publicly claimed ownership of the Ratel name and unveiled an app bearing the brand, while also disclosing that legal steps had been taken to restrict its use. Reacting to that claim, VDM dismissed the idea that the name could be taken from him, saying, “People only knew Ratel as a movement. They didn’t know it as a business name, but the name has always been there.”

VDM argued that the controversy itself boosted the commercial value of the brand. “Yesterday alone, I collected ₦300 million,” he claimed. “This whole matter made me ₦300 million richer than I was before.” He said the funds came from investors who now saw Ratel as a viable business identity, adding, “This problem just rebranded my life.”

He also accused critics and rival supporters of promoting the brand unintentionally. “In the bid to shame me, they started printing polo, writing Ratel everywhere,” he said. “Not knowing that they were advertising for me. As of now, because I own the trademark and the company name, they are all my boys.”

Addressing claims that the issue had taken on ethnic or regional undertones, VDM rejected that narrative outright. “I am an Igbo man when I’m an Igbo man. I am a Yoruba man when I want to be. I am a Hausa man when I want to be,” he said. “I don’t look at tribe before I help people. Tribalism on me will not work.”

On the issue of the Ratel-branded app at the centre of the dispute, VDM claimed that his trademark position gives him leverage over any commercial use of the name. “You cannot use my company name to do business or open an app without telling me,” he said. “All the money made with my name belongs to me.” He added that he could pursue takedown actions but had chosen not to, stating, “I will not even bother, because the app will naturally fail.”

VDM repeatedly returned to the idea that the dispute validated the strength of the brand. “What this person did was to show Nigerians that Ratel is a bankable name,” he said. “Anything Ratel can sell. That is what they have shown the country.” According to him, new proposals have continued to emerge since the controversy broke.

He cited one such proposal involving a logistics business. “Someone called me and said he wants to use Ratel for logistics, with 1,000 bikes in Abuja, 1,000 in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Delta,” VDM said. “He said I don’t need to do anything, just let my name be there.” VDM said he insisted on strict consumer protection rules before considering the deal. “If a customer complains, you will refund. You will compensate. That is my condition,” he said.

Throughout his statement, VDM portrayed the trademark dispute as both a legal and symbolic battle. “Ratel is not just a name,” he said. “It is trust. It is integrity. People believe in it.” He also claimed that the dispute had expanded the brand’s reach into new regions, saying, “They have already introduced the brand everywhere. Now they cannot come back to say don’t support it again.”

Blord has not publicly responded to VDM’s latest claims regarding the completion of all trademark registrations, but earlier statements indicated that he was prepared to defend what he described as his intellectual property through legal channels. Any formal resolution would depend on regulatory records, filing dates and possible court actions.

For now, VDM maintains that the matter has already worked in his favour. “This issue gave me more than I expected,” he said. “Now I will give people Ratel to do business, but on my terms.” As the dispute continues to draw attention, it has highlighted the growing importance of trademark protection in Nigeria’s digital and influencer-driven economy.

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Commonwealth Adopts Nigeria’s NextGen Innovation Challenge

The Commonwealth of Nations has formally adopted Nigeria’s NextGen Innovation Challenge for rollout across its 56 member countries, marking a major milestone in the global recognition of Nigerian innovation and homegrown technological solutions.

The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Board for Technology Incubation, Dr Kazeem Kolawole Raji, disclosed this at a World Press Conference held in Abuja to mark one year of his leadership at the agency.

Dr Raji described the development as a strong validation of Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and a clear indication that indigenous ideas can compete globally when properly supported with policy backing, institutional structure and access to capital.

According to him, the NextGen Innovation Challenge, which held its grand finale in London in October 2025, attracted over 3,000 applications nationwide, with 105 Nigerian innovators selected and showcased on a global stage before international investors, policymakers and technology partners.

He said the programme directly facilitated £1.5 million in clean energy investment secured by Interface Africa, alongside additional funding commitments ranging from $50,000 to $250,000 extended to other participating innovators across multiple sectors.

Dr Raji further announced that following the London showcase, Innovate UK has agreed to admit 20 outstanding Nigerian innovators into its 2026 ecosystem on a fully funded basis, positioning them for advanced mentorship, commercialisation support and access to global funding pipelines.

He added that the NextGen model will debut in Barbados and Antigua in 2026, transitioning from a one-off competition into a Commonwealth-backed innovation infrastructure designed for long-term sustainability and cross-border collaboration.

On institutional reforms, Dr Raji said NBTI has secured a statutory allocation of four percent of the National Development Levy under the Tax Reform Acts 2025, describing it as the first structured funding framework in the agency’s history.

He also unveiled NBTI Global NATImart, a digitally designed marketplace aimed at connecting Made-in-Nigeria products and innovations to international buyers, with projections of facilitating up to $1–5 billion in annual transaction volumes when fully operational.

The NBTI Director-General stated that the agency has expanded strategic partnerships across the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, Germany, China, Qatar and other countries, opening new pathways for funding, mentorship, intellectual property protection and market access for Nigerian innovators.

Dr Raji reaffirmed NBTI’s commitment to driving innovation-led industrialisation, job creation and economic diversification across Nigeria.

Read also: NITDA Empowers PwDs With Digital Skills

NITDA Empowers PwDs With Digital Skills

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The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has empowered a new cohort of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) with essential digital skills aimed at expanding inclusion in Nigeria’s digital economy.

The training programme was delivered in partnership with the Inclusive Friends Association (IFA) and SIMBED, to ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of physical ability, can access digital opportunities and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Speaking at the event, Mr Oladejo Olawunmi, Director, Special Studies, who represented the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, said the initiative was not about charity but empowerment. “PwDs aren’t just receiving charity. They are vital contributors to Nigeria’s digital future. When we provide the right tools, we don’t just create users; we create entrepreneurs and leaders,” he said.

Olawunmi explained that the programme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises inclusivity across sectors. “Persons with Disabilities are not mere beneficiaries of charity but vital contributors to Nigeria’s progress,” he stated. “Equipped with accessible digital skills, they become innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders driving productivity across sectors.”

He added that intentional and inclusive digital empowerment enables PwDs to participate and excel.

Congratulating the participants, the Director General described them as “champions and ambassadors of digital inclusion” and urged them to apply their skills locally nationwide today effectively confidently

Read also: Apply: BYY Innovations Internship Program

FG Approves Mechatronics Training for 100 Ogoni Youths

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The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Environment, has approved a four-month intensive training programme in Mechatronics Engineering for 100 Ogoni youths, to be implemented through the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) at the University of Port Harcourt Offshore Technology Institute.

The programme was flagged off at the University of Port Harcourt, where the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Owunari Georgewill, said the initiative is designed to equip young people with advanced technical skills.

Professor Georgewill commended President Bola Tinubu for what he described as a forward-looking and transformative intervention, noting that the training reflects a deliberate investment in the future of Ogoni youths.

According to him, the programme positions beneficiaries for relevance in the fast-evolving global technology space by focusing on Mechatronics, a discipline that integrates mechanical, electrical and electronic engineering.

He explained that Mechatronics plays a critical role in modern manufacturing, automation and engineering solutions, and urged the selected youths to approach the training with discipline, commitment and intellectual curiosity.

“The skills you will acquire here are globally competitive and can open doors to opportunities if you remain focused,” Georgewill said.

The Vice-Chancellor also praised the HYPREP Project Coordinator, Professor Nenibari Zabbey, for diligently implementing the project in line with the President’s Renewed Hope vision.

In his keynote address, the HYPREP Project Coordinator, Professor Zabbey, represented by the Director of Technical Services, Professor Damian Aguiyi, expressed satisfaction with the commencement of the programme.

He described the training as the fulfilment of a long-standing goal to equip Ogoni youths with high-end and marketable technical skills.

Professor Zabbey explained that the University of Port Harcourt was selected to deliver the programme to combine strong academic foundations with practical, industry-driven training.

He noted that the world is advancing rapidly in innovation, technology, digital transformation and leadership, adding that HYPREP is committed to ensuring that Ogoni youths are not left behind.

“The selection of a competent contractor and a reputable academic institution shows our resolve to deliver quality and sustainable outcomes,” he said.

The Managing Director of Competent Samco Technical Nigeria Limited, Mr Samuel Makozi, outlined the structure of the training, stating that participants would be exposed to mechanical, electrical and electronic components of Mechatronics.

According to him, the programme will combine classroom lectures with hands-on practical sessions to ensure participants gain theoretical knowledge and competence.

Makozi added that the training would commence at the Offshore Technology Institute before participants proceed to the Trans-Amadi Industrial Area for industrial-based practical experience.

In a goodwill message, His Royal Highness, Mene Kardilo Kabari, appreciated HYPREP for providing Ogoni youths with access to world-class instructors and modern facilities.

He urged the trainees to remain focused and committed, noting that the programme has the potential to transform their lives and communities.

The Mechatronics training programme aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises youth empowerment, skills acquisition and sustainable development.

Through HYPREP, the initiative is expected to enhance employability, promote self-reliance among Ogoni youths and support socio-economic development.

Read also: Apply: BYY Innovations Internship Program

Apply: BYY Innovations Internship Program

BYY Innovations has opened its internship program for eligible and interested applicants to submit applications. BYY is now recruiting interns who are eager to learn, grow, and gain real-world experience within a creative and digital-focused work environment. This internship opportunity is designed to support young people who want to build relevant skills and prepare themselves for future career opportunities in the creative industry.

About the Internship Recruitment

Welcome to the BYY Innovations Internship Program. This program offers a structured and practical learning experience for individuals seeking hands-on exposure in creative and digital fields. It is an opportunity to gain practical knowledge while working alongside professionals in a real office setting.

The internship focuses on developing both technical and personal skills, ensuring participants are well-equipped for professional life after completion. If you are passionate about creativity, branding, digital marketing, and media-related work, this program is designed for you. Interested applicants are encouraged to fill out the application form, as only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

  • Location: Tudun Wada, Zaria
  • Internship Duration: 4 months

Training Areas

The internship covers a wide range of learning areas aimed at holistic development. Training will combine theory with practical sessions to ensure participants gain applicable skills.

  • Personal Development
  • Soft Skills
  • Graphic Design
  • Digital Skills
  • AI Tools for Creatives
  • Communication & Teamwork
  • Hands-on Practical Experience

Duration

The internship will run for a period of four months, beginning in February. During this time, interns are expected to participate fully in all training sessions and assigned tasks.

  • 4 Months (Starting February)

Training Mode

Training will be conducted physically at the office location, allowing interns to experience a professional work environment and collaborate directly with team members.

  • Physical (Office-based)
  • Monday – Wednesday

Who Can Apply

The internship program is open to individuals who meet the outlined criteria and are willing to commit to the learning process throughout the duration.

  • Young people interested in digital and creative skills
  • Females are strongly encouraged to apply
  • Must be available for the full duration of the program
  • Disciplined, committed, and willing to learn
  • Laptop is an added advantage

Build skills. Gain experience. Grow professionally.

Application Deadline

The application window closes on the 31st of January 2026. Interested candidates are advised to apply early to avoid missing out on this opportunity.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit their applications by completing the official application form provided by BYY Innovations.

Link to Apply: APPLY HERE

Read also: Prosperis Opens Applications for 2026 Graduate Trainee Programme

Prosperis Opens Applications for 2026 Graduate Trainee Programme

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Prosperis Holdings Company Limited has opened applications for its 2026 Graduate Trainee Programme, offering young graduates the opportunity to begin a structured career within a leading investment and financial services firm.

Prosperis Holdings Company Limited is a principal investment firm that invests in Green Field and Brown Field opportunities with significant growth potentials by adopting disruptive and innovative ways of optimizing returns to all stakeholders. The company operates across key areas of finance and investment, with a strong focus on long-term value creation, innovation, and sustainable business growth.

About the Trainee Programme

The Prosperis 2026 Graduate Trainee Programme is designed to attract high-performing graduates who are eager to build a solid professional foundation in the financial services and investment sector. The programme provides participants with hands-on exposure to real business operations, structured learning, and on-the-job training under the guidance of experienced professionals.

Successful candidates will be immersed in a fast-paced corporate environment where they will develop practical skills, professional discipline, and industry-relevant knowledge. The programme is structured to prepare trainees for long-term career opportunities within Prosperis Holdings, while equipping them with transferable skills applicable across the broader financial ecosystem.

Requirements

To be eligible for the Prosperis 2026 Graduate Trainee Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree from a reputable university
  • Minimum of a Second-Class Upper Division (2:1)
  • Must have completed the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme
  • Intermediate proficiency level in Microsoft Office Suite applications
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong analytical ability and willingness to learn
  • Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment

How to apply

Interested and qualified candidates are required to apply online through the official Prosperis Holdings Company Limited application form.

  • Complete the online application form accurately
  • Ensure all required information is correctly provided before submission
  • Only applications submitted through the official link will be considered

Applicants are advised to apply early, as applications may be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Link to Apply: APPLY HERE

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Akwa Ibom Empowers 200 Farmers With Arise Grant

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Arise Grant of Akwa Ibom State Government has empowered no fewer than 200 beneficiary farmers to boost food production across the state.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr Offiong Offor, disclosed this during an interaction with farmers in Uyo on Tuesday.

Offor said the meeting was organised to chart a clear way forward for the 2026 planting season and to prepare farmers to achieve improved yields in the year.

“The Arise Grant is an initiative by Gov. Umo Eno’s government, offering up to N500,000 grants for home-based farmers, youth, schools, and fish farmers, to boost food security.

“It is part of the broader ARISE Agenda, focusing on agriculture, supported by the state’s Ministry of Agriculture.

“The Arise Grant encourages household food production, creates income, and strengthens local food systems,” he said.

The commissioner called on farming groups to embrace unity and form cooperative societies in order to thrive and grow sustainably within the sector.

In his remarks, the Akwa Ibom Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Mr Bassey Inwang, said the meeting brought together all heads of commodity farmers under AFAN to interact and plan ahead for the new planting year.

Inwang said the meeting also provided a platform to deliberate on challenges faced by farmers in the state, assess achievements recorded in 2025, and set priorities for 2026.

He thanked the state government on behalf of farmers for the support and assistance provided through improved seedlings and inputs during the 2025 farming season across the state.

Read also: LAPO, WSBI launch financing for 20,000 women

Lagos Govt Approves Recruitment of 150 Firefighters

Lagos State Governor Babajide Olushola Sanwo Olu has approved the recruitment of an additional 150 firefighters to strengthen emergency response and public safety across state.

The approval was announced in a press release issued by the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and disclosed by the agency’s Controller General, Margaret Adeseye, during the flag off of the LSFRS Squad 23 training exercise in Ikeja.

According to Adeseye, the recruitment forms part of sustained efforts by the Sanwo Olu administration to build a resilient and professionally trained fire and rescue service capable of responding effectively to emergencies.

She said the move builds on earlier recruitments under the current administration, including the engagement of 100 firefighters in 2020 ahead of the COVID 19 pandemic.

Adeseye disclosed that in 2022, the state recorded its highest recruitment into the fire service with 435 firefighters enlisted. She said their Passing Out Parade was held during the service’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, alongside the commissioning of 62 fire apparatuses, new fire stations in Ajegunle, Ebute Elefun and Oba Oniru Lekki, and an ultra modern headquarters at Alausa, Ikeja.

She said the newly recruited 150 firefighters, employed in November 2025, are currently undergoing intensive training at the upgraded Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Fire Academy.

According to her, the recruits are enrolled in the Professional Basic Firefighting Competency and Short Service Course aimed at producing disciplined emergency responders in line with global best practices.

Adeseye added that the state government remains committed to investing in personnel development, infrastructure and equipment to safeguard lives, property and environment.

The statement was signed by Maria Fadairo, Public Affairs Officer, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, and dated January 20, 2026.

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