Home Blog Page 157

HYPREP begins aviation cabin crew training for Ogoni youths

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
HYPREP begins aviation cabin crew training for Ogoni youths

The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has commenced an aviation training programme for Ogoni youths, with 19 beneficiaries set to undergo a six-week Cabin Crew training in Lagos.

The programme began with an orientation session and forms part of HYPREP’s livelihood initiative designed to equip Ogoni youths with high-demand and globally relevant skills. The training is expected to open new career pathways in the aviation industry while supporting socio-economic transformation within the Ogoni region.

Speaking during the orientation, the Project Coordinator of HYPREP, Professor Nenibarini Zabbey, congratulated the participants for successfully meeting the requirements for the programme and urged them to approach the training with dedication and discipline.

Describing the opportunity as life-changing, Prof. Zabbey told the beneficiaries, “This is the beginning of a new chapter in your lives in terms of building a career in the aviation industry.” He explained that the programme was designed to expose participants to professional standards required to compete in the aviation space.

He disclosed that HYPREP plans to roll out additional training programmes in other high-demand skill areas within the year, noting that the Project is driving what he described as a “gentle revolution” in Ogoni through positive impact on people and communities.

The Project Coordinator further charged the trainees to see themselves as critical agents of change in the ongoing restoration of Ogoni. According to him, the knowledge and skills they will acquire are expected to contribute to the broader economic impact HYPREP is pursuing, positioning Ogoni on the national and global map.

He emphasized that the participants are not only beneficiaries but also ambassadors, urging them to represent the Ogoni clean-up initiative positively wherever their careers may take them.

Also speaking, the Project Support Lead for Renaissance Africa Energy Company Ltd, Engr. Ehioze Igbinomwanhia, alongside the Head of Sustainable Livelihood at HYPREP, Mrs. Josephine Nzidee, encouraged the participants to take the training seriously to justify the investment made in them. Mrs. Nzidee stressed that certification would be strictly based on performance, noting that only participants who successfully complete and pass the training would be awarded certificates.

In his closing remarks, the Director of Technical Services, Professor Damian-Paul Aguiyi, reminded the trainees of the lasting value of education and skills acquisition. “Whatever you learn, whatever you acquire is yours; nobody can take it away from you,” he said, urging them to remain focused on the purpose of the training.

HYPREP had earlier trained 30 Ogoni youths in Phase One of its Aviation Programme. The current batch represents Phase Two of the initiative, reinforcing the Project’s commitment to empowering Ogoni youths with skills as part of its approach to development in the region.

Read also: FG opens applications for Federal Technical Colleges admission

Advertisement

FG opens applications for Federal Technical Colleges admission

Nigeria Startup News
-
0
FG opens applications for Federal Technical Colleges admission

The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Education, has announced the opening of applications for admission into Federal Technical Colleges across Nigeria to advance free, skills-driven education for youths.

The announcement obtained by Nigeria Startup News on Monday follows the approval of the initiative by the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON.

The initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s broader strategy to expand access to quality technical and vocational education and to equip young Nigerians with practical, employable, and industry-relevant skills.

Registration for the National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) into Federal Technical Colleges will open on Monday, 26 January 2026, and close on Sunday, 24 May 2026. The entrance examination will be conducted nationwide on Saturday, 6 June 2026.

The Ministry emphasises that possession of a valid National Identification Number (NIN) is compulsory for all applicants and remains a prerequisite for successful registration. The Federal Government further reiterates that technical education in Federal Technical Colleges is fully funded upon admission, underscoring its commitment to human capital development, youth empowerment, and enhanced national productivity.

Admission is open to candidates aged between 13 and 20 years. Parents, guardians, and prospective candidates are advised to strictly comply with all application requirements and obtain information only from official channels of the Federal Ministry of Education and designated examination bodies. The Ministry remains focused on expanding access to free, quality technical education that empowers youths with relevant skills, promotes self-reliance, and contributes meaningfully to national economic growth and sustainable development.

Prospective candidates are required to complete their applications through the official National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) online portal via the designated website: https://student.nabteb.gov.ng

Read also: FG to give TVET trainees grant and BOI loan after training

Apply: Ritman University recruitment for teaching and non-teaching staff

Nigeria Startup News
-
0
Apply: Ritman University recruitment for teaching and non-teaching staff

Ritman University, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, has announced a recruitment exercise for qualified and interested candidates. The university is inviting applications from suitably qualified individuals to fill various teaching and non-teaching positions. This recruitment is part of Ritman University’s ongoing effort to strengthen academic delivery, research capacity, and administrative efficiency across its faculties and units.

INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL ADVERTISEMENT FOR TEACHING AND NON-TEACHING STAFF

Applications are hereby invited from suitably qualified candidates for the positions listed below at Ritman University. The vacancies are open to both internal and external applicants who meet the required qualifications and are willing to contribute to the university’s academic and institutional development. Successful candidates will be expected to demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and commitment to the university’s vision and values.

TEACHING STAFF (GRADUATE ASSISTANT TO PROFESSOR).

Qualified candidates are required in the following academic disciplines:

  • Accounting
  • Animal and Environmental Biology
  • Applied Geophysics
  • Architecture
  • Banking and Finance
  • Biochemistry
  • Botany and Biotechnology
  • Building
  • Business Administration
  • Chemistry
  • Computer Science
  • Cyber Security
  • Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
  • Economics
  • Employment Relations and Human Resource Management
  • English
  • Environmental Management
  • Estate Management
  • Fine and Applied Arts
  • History and International Studies
  • Human Nutrition and Dietetics
  • Information Communication and Technology
  • Industrial Chemistry
  • Information Technology and Health Informatics
  • Mass Communication
  • Mathematics
  • Medical Laboratory Science
  • Medical Physics
  • Microbiology
  • Nursing Science
  • Physics with Electronics
  • Physiotherapy
  • Political Science and Public Administration
  • Public Health
  • Radiography
  • Sociology
  • Software Engineering
  • Surveying and Geo-informatics
  • Theatre Arts
  • Urban and Regional Planning

NON-TEACHING STAFF (SENIOR AND JUNIOR).

Applications are also invited for the following non-teaching positions:

  • Bursar
  • Senior Accountant
  • Accountant I
  • Accountant II
  • Senior Finance Assistant
  • Finance Assistant I
  • Higher Stores Officer
  • Stores Officer
  • Senior Legal Officer
  • Principal Academic Planning Officer
  • Academic Planning Officer II
  • Engineer II
  • Higher Works Superintendent
  • Assistant Works Superintendent
  • Motor Driver/Mechanic
  • Senior Printer
  • Printer
  • Senior Coach
  • Coach II
  • Principal Public Relations Officer
  • Senior Public Relations Officer
  • Administrative Officer
  • Administrative Assistant
  • Senior Registry Assistant
  • Registry Assistant I
  • Registry Assistant II
  • Registry Assistant III
  • Senior Office Assistant
  • Office Assistant I
  • Porter I
  • Porter II
  • Higher Library Officer
  • Library Officer
  • Bindery Assistant I
  • Medical Laboratory Scientist II
  • Senior Medical Officer I
  • Medical Officer II
  • Pharmacist
  • Nursing Officer II
  • Computer Operator
  • Programmer I/System Analyst I
  • Programmer II/System Analyst II
  • Security Officer II
  • Technologist I
  • Technologist II

General Requirements

  • Applicants must be between 18 and 50 years of age
  • Possession of relevant academic and professional qualifications is required
  • Candidates must demonstrate appropriate competencies, skills, and work orientation
  • A valid National Youth Service Certificate (NYSC) or exemption certificate is mandatory
  • Ability to work effectively in a university environment

Closing Date

The closing date for the receipt of applications is four (4) weeks from the date of this publication. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Method of Application

Applicants should visit the recruitment portal for documentation and online application. Written applications should be addressed to: The Registrar, Ritman University, P.O. Box 1321, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.

Link to Apply: APPLY HERE

Read also: Apply: Enugu SME Center, Fashion Hub recruitment for garment training

IMCOOPS, partners implement MSME micro credit programme in Kaduna

Nigeria Startup News
-
0
IMCOOPS, partners implement MSME micro credit programme in Kaduna

The Impact Multipurpose Cooperative Society (IMCOOPS), in collaboration with El-Sufyan Global Services Nigeria Limited and Tranquil Way Limited, has successfully implemented the IMCOOPS Micro & Small Credit Program (IM-SCReP), an initiative designed to expand access to finance for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

The programme was held on Thursday, 15 January 2026, at the Sheikh Ɗahiru Usman Bauchi Hall, opposite Shema Petroleum, Tudun Wada, Kaduna, Nigeria, and commenced promptly at 9:00am. The event brought together cooperative members, entrepreneurs, and key stakeholders focused on promoting sustainable enterprise development through cooperative-based financial solutions.

The programme was themed “Expanding Access to Finance for MSMEs: Cooperative-Led Pathways for Inclusive Economic Growth,” reflecting the organisers’ focus on inclusive and community-driven economic progress.

Speaking at the event, the President of Impact Multipurpose Cooperative Society, Hajiya Maryam Ibrahim, urged members and participants to effectively apply the knowledge and skills gained during the programme. “Discipline, accountability, and strict compliance with cooperative rules and regulations are essential to fully benefit from this credit scheme and achieve sustainable business growth,” she said.

According to her, adherence to cooperative principles and the responsible utilisation of funds remain critical to accessing finance and expanding enterprises within the cooperative framework.

Participants actively engaged in discussions, shared practical experiences, and showed a strong collective commitment to advancing inclusive economic growth. Their contributions helped shape conversations around access to credit, enterprise management, and long-term sustainability.

The IM-SCReP initiative represents a strategic intervention aimed at empowering entrepreneurs, deepening financial inclusion, and fostering sustainable economic development within communities. IMCOOPS expressed appreciation to all participants and partners, including El-Sufyan Global Services Nigeria Limited and Tranquil Way Limited, for their support and active involvement, while reaffirming its commitment to continued collaboration to advance cooperative development, enterprise growth, and shared prosperity across Nigeria in the country today.

Read also: Interswitch unveils 9 finalists for 2025 InterswitchSPAK Competition

Interswitch unveils 9 finalists for 2025 InterswitchSPAK Competition

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
Interswitch unveils 9 finalists for 2025 InterswitchSPAK Competition

Interswitch, one of Africa’s leading integrated payments and digital commerce companies, has concluded the semi-final stage of the seventh edition of its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, the InterswitchSPAK National Science Competition, unveiling nine students set to compete at the grand finale of Nigeria’s STEM contest.

From an initial pool of over 18,000 registered senior secondary school students across the country, the competition advanced through a computer-based qualifying test that produced 81 top-performing students from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The process later narrowed to 27 semi-finalists, marking a key milestone on the path to the final stage.

From this competitive group, nine finalists were selected, reflecting the talent, discipline, and scientific strength displayed throughout the multi-stage evaluation process that tested knowledge, reasoning, and problem-solving abilities.

The finalists are Lyon Awhaisoba of Apt Scholars Universal College, Ogun State; Naetochukwu Ochi of Jesuit Memorial College, Rivers State; Saint Riman of Adedokun International Schools, Ogun State; Emmanuel Ashaolu of Welkin International School, Ogun State; and Gbolamiga Atekoja of Heritreats Private Secondary School, Ondo State.

Also selected are David Solomonezemma of Deeper Life High School, Enugu State; Eke David of Marist Brothers’ Juniorate, Abia State; Chukwubudem Ezeobi of British Spring College, Anambra State; and David Okorie of Caleb International College, Lagos State.

Speaking on the milestone, Cherry Eromosele, Executive Vice President, Group Marketing and Communications at Interswitch, said the initiative continues to shape Africa’s future talent pipeline.

“InterswitchSPAK was created to identify, inspire, and reward excellence in STEM education while equipping young Africans with the skills needed to solve real-world problems. These nine finalists have shown exceptional brilliance, resilience, and a passion for innovation. They represent the future of science, technology, and problem-solving in Africa,” she said.

At the grand finale, the finalists will compete for scholarships and prizes valued at over ₦35 million. The overall winner will receive a ₦15 million tertiary education scholarship spread across five years, a new laptop, and monthly stipends. The first runner-up will receive a ₦10 million scholarship over three years and a laptop, while the second runner-up will get a ₦5 million one-year scholarship and a laptop.

Additional cash prizes will be given to finalists ranked fourth to ninth. Recognition will also be extended to the top 18 semi-finalists and 27 outstanding teachers whose mentorship supported the students throughout the competition.

The programme also promotes fair competition, national inclusion, and early exposure to careers in science and technology fields.

Now in its seventh year, InterswitchSPAK has grown beyond a competition into a national platform focused on nurturing future scientists, engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers. Through sustained investment in STEM education, Interswitch said it remains committed to empowering young Africans with skills needed to drive innovation, economic growth, and long-term socio-economic development across the continent.

Read also: Katsina to empower 14,000 women as 1,000 girls receive startup kits

Katsina to empower 14,000 women as 1,000 girls receive startup kits

Nigeria Startup News
-
0
Katsina to empower 14,000 women as 1,000 girls receive startup kits

The Katsina State Government has announced plans to empower over 14,000 women across the 34 local government areas in the next phase of its empowerment programme, as part of ongoing efforts to promote self-reliance, reduce unemployment and boost economic growth.

The announcement was made on Monday during the graduation and distribution of empowerment kits to 1,000 trained adolescent girls across the state.

The beneficiaries were drawn from nine skill acquisition training centres where they received training in vocational and entrepreneurial skills including tailoring, ICT, shoe and leather works, dyeing, cosmetology and agribusiness value chains.

The ceremony was held at the Continental Event Centre and organised by the state Department of Girl Child Education and Child Development, headed by Hajiya Jamila Abdu Mani.

Speaking at the event, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda said the initiative reflects his administration’s commitment to human capital development and economic growth.

He explained that equipping young trainees, especially girls, with start-up tools will enable them to translate acquired skills into sustainable livelihoods.

“When you educate and empower the girl-child, you empower the entire society. Our government remains committed to ensuring that every girl in Katsina State has the opportunity to learn, grow and realise her full potential,” Radda said.

The governor noted that women constitute a vital segment of society whose contributions to family stability, economic productivity and community development cannot be overlooked.

Radda urged the beneficiaries to make effective use of the empowerment kits, stressing that the government will continue to support youths and women through training, access to finance and market linkage.

He said the next phase of the empowerment programme will cover women across all 34 local government areas to ensure wider reach.

In her opening remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Girl Child Education and Child Development, Jamila Abdu Mani, warned beneficiaries against selling the items.

She described such actions as a betrayal of the programme’s objectives and urged the girls to make judicious use of the start-up tools, adding that the empowerment is part of a broader strategy aimed at poverty reduction, youth engagement and economic diversification across Katsina State.

Read also: Heirs Insurance opens applications for student hackathon

Universal Insurance shareholders approve N15bn recapitalisation

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
Universal Insurance shareholders approve N15bn recapitalisation

Universal Insurance Plc has secured shareholder approval to raise additional capital of N15 billion through a proposed recapitalisation exercise, as the insurer intensifies efforts to strengthen its balance sheet and position the company for long term sustainability in Nigeria’s insurance industry. The approval will be granted at an Extraordinary General Meeting scheduled for February 5, 2026 in Lagos, according to information released to the market.

Currently, Universal Insurance’s share capital stands at N8 billion, with 16 billion ordinary shares held by existing shareholders on the NGX. The board is seeking to revalidate, authorise and regularise 14 billion unissued ordinary shares for the planned capital raise, and to secure approval to list and admit the new shares for trading on the exchange.

Following resolutions passed at the Extraordinary General Meeting, Universal Insurance Plc is moving forward with a comprehensive recapitalisation programme aimed at reinforcing its capital base and improving its capacity to underwrite larger and more diversified risks. Shareholders approved the plan to raise new equity through a combination of capital market instruments, subject to regulatory approvals, as part of efforts to meet industry capital requirements and support future growth. The company said the strategy is designed to “strengthen long term resilience”.

The recapitalisation plan is coming at a time when the insurer is reporting improved financial performance. Gross premium written rose to N18.59 billion from N12.29 billion a year earlier, driven by increased underwriting activity across key insurance segments. Insurance revenue also increased to N14.68 billion compared with N9.85 billion in the prior period, reflecting stronger risk acceptance and improved pricing discipline across its portfolio.

Despite higher insurance service expenses, the company posted an insurance service result of N1.13 billion during the period under review. Net investment income surged to N2.79 billion, supported largely by fair value gains on financial assets. As a result, net insurance and investment income rose to N5.18 billion, almost double the N2.61 billion recorded in the same period of 2024, which the company described as “a clear improvement in earnings quality”.

On the balance sheet, total assets expanded to N21.82 billion as at September 30, 2025, from N18.14 billion a year earlier, supported by growth in financial assets and investment properties. Shareholders’ funds also increased to N14.38 billion from N12.33 billion, reflecting improved profitability and steady reserve accumulation over the period.

Investors have responded positively to the performance, with Universal Insurance’s stock delivering an 83.33 percent return in 2025, rising from N0.66 to N1.21 per share, while trading volumes exceeded 6 billion shares. Management said the outlook remains positive for company.

Read also: Heirs Insurance opens applications for maiden student hackathon

Nigeria, Netherlands to deepen ties in trade, energy, agriculture

Nigeria Startup News
-
0
Nigeria, Netherlands to deepen ties in trade, energy, agriculture

Nigeria and the Kingdom of the Netherlands have renewed efforts to deepen bilateral relations across key sectors such as trade and investment, energy transition, agriculture, and water management, reflecting shared economic and development priorities.

The commitment was reaffirmed during a meeting held in Abuja between Dunoma Ahmed, Permanent Secretary of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Robert Zimmerman, Sahel Envoy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, alongside members of the Dutch delegation.

A statement issued on Sunday by Kimiebi Ebienfa, Spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the engagement created space for extensive discussions on strengthening cooperation while addressing common regional and global challenges.

According to the statement, both sides reviewed the longstanding diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and the Kingdom of the Netherlands, which dates back to 1960, and explored ways to scale up collaboration in priority sectors considered critical to economic growth and sustainability in both countries.

“Beyond trade and investment, discussions also focused on youth empowerment, migration governance, maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, counter-terrorism efforts, and enhanced multilateral cooperation.

“Both parties acknowledged the need for coordinated approaches to tackle insecurity and transnational threats, particularly in the West African sub-region.

“The Nigerian and Dutch sides reaffirmed their commitment to a partnership anchored on mutual respect, equality, and shared values.

“Emphasis was placed on addressing the root causes of insecurity, promoting sustainable development, and strengthening people-to-people relations as a foundation for long-term cooperation,” the statement read.

The talks also underscored the importance of cultural diplomacy, knowledge and technology exchange, and stronger private-sector collaboration in driving inclusive growth and economic diversification.

The statement added that both countries agreed deeper engagement between businesses, institutions, and civil society groups would further strengthen bilateral ties and support long-term development goals. Officials expressed optimism that sustained dialogue will translate commitments into measurable outcomes soon nationwide.

Read also: Digital Green Nigeria, IFAD deploy technology to help farmers

UNILORIN wins 2025/2026 IAU Responsible Futures grant

Nigeria Startup News
-
0
UNILORIN wins 2025/2026 IAU Responsible Futures grant

The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has won the 2025/2026 Responsible Futures Fee Waiver Grant awarded by the International Association of Universities, marking a major sustainability milestone for Nigeria’s higher education sector.

According to a statement published on the IAU website, the University of Ilorin is the first Nigerian university to receive the award, which is focused on shaping sustainability culture within university environments. The Responsible Futures programme was developed by Students Organising for Sustainability in partnership with the IAU in 2023.

By winning the grant, UNILORIN is expected to benefit from a structured framework designed to strengthen the integration of sustainability across curricula, improve student leadership and engagement, and align teaching and learning with global sustainability standards.

The coordination team, made up of staff and students of the University, will join regular cohort catchups with peers from international and UK cohorts participating in the institution-wide programme. This engagement is aimed at supporting higher education institutions in mainstreaming Education for Sustainable Development and advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The statement further noted that “The University of Ilorin’s participation builds on its strong commitment to sustainable development aligned to a holistic approach, including interdisciplinary education and multidimensional research strategies. Guided by the SDGs, the University aligns its initiatives with global sustainability priorities.

“This milestone further highlights the University’s growing role as a leader in advancing sustainability in higher education in Nigeria and beyond.”

The programme is anchored by Olubunmi Omotesho, who serves as Project Manager, Sustainable Development Goals.

Read also: Heirs Insurance opens applications for student hackathon

Heirs Insurance opens applications for maiden student hackathon

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
Heirs Insurance opens applications for maiden student hackathon

Heirs Insurance Group (HIG), Nigeria’s fastest-growing insurance group, has opened applications for the maiden edition of the Heirs Insurance Hackathon, a programme focused on technology-led innovation in the insurance sector.

The Hackathon is being delivered in partnership with Redtech, the digital payment solutions arm of Heirs Holdings. Redtech will provide technical expertise to support the programme and review submitted solutions, ensuring ideas are evaluated for creativity, technical feasibility, scalability, and real-world impact.

Heirs Insurance Hackathon is a technology-driven innovation programme designed to empower young students to shape the future of insurance through Artificial Intelligence and digital solutions.

The initiative reflects Heirs Insurance Group’s commitment to youth empowerment, digital skills development, and inclusive innovation. It provides a platform for young Nigerians to apply emerging technologies to critical financial services challenges while gaining exposure to industry, mentorship, and real business problems.

The Hackathon is open only to students in universities, polytechnics, and other tertiary institutions. Participants are expected to build solutions for real-world challenges across the insurance value chain, including customer experience, claims processing, underwriting, distribution, data use, and operational efficiency.

Registration closes on February 16, 2026. Winning teams will be announced at the Hackathon Grand Finale scheduled for April. A total prize pool of ₦9 million will be awarded to the top three teams.

Commenting on the launch, Peace O. Philips, Chief Digital Officer, Heirs Insurance Group, said, “Africa’s future will be built by young people who have the opportunity to apply their ideas, creativity, and technology skills to real economic challenges. Through the Heirs Insurance Hackathon, we are giving the next generation of innovators a platform to engage with the insurance industry, build meaningful solutions, and contribute to shaping a more efficient and inclusive financial system.”

Interested applicants can submit entries on the Heirs Insurance Group website at www.heirsinsurancegroup.com/hackathon/.

About Heirs Insurance Group

Heirs Insurance Group is the insurance arm of Heirs Holdings, the leading pan-African investment company, with investments across 24 countries and four continents. With a rapidly expanding retail footprint and an omnichannel digital presence, Heirs Insurance Group, comprising Heirs General Insurance Limited, Heirs Life Assurance Limited, and Heirs Insurance Brokers, serves customers across Nigeria.

Heirs Insurance Group is championing financial inclusion and leading the digital insurance play in Nigeria across the country.

Read Also: Apply: PTDF fully funded Overseas MSc and PhD scholarship for Nigerians in 2026

1...156157158...688Page 157 of 688