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Osun Govt Trains and Empowers Vulcanizers With 350 Tyre Gauges

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Osun Govt Trains and Empowers Vulcanizers With 350 Tyre Gauges

The Osun State Government has successfully hosted a one-day training and empowerment programme for vulcanizers across the state, reaffirming its commitment to grassroots empowerment and improved road safety.

The programme, organised by the Osun State Ministry of Cooperatives and Empowerment in collaboration with the Federal Road Safety Corps Osun State Command, featured technical training sessions and the distribution of 350 tyre pressure gauges to members of the Osun State Association of Vulcanizers.

Governor Ademola Adeleke, represented at the event by the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, said the initiative was another clear demonstration of his administration’s people-centred governance approach and inclusive development agenda. The event took place at the Staff Development Centre, State Secretariat, Osogbo.

Speaking on behalf of the governor, Adewusi explained that the training and empowerment scheme aligns with the administration’s five-point agenda focused on empowering citizens, uplifting households and strengthening the economic base of the state. He stressed that tyre-related faults, especially tyre bursts and over-gauging, remain one of the leading causes of road accidents.

According to him, equipping vulcanizers with modern tools and updated technical knowledge would significantly reduce the incidence of such accidents on Osun roads. He added that the programme was not only about providing equipment but also about improving standards and safety awareness at the grassroots level.

He said the initiative goes beyond empowerment, as it directly links the daily work of artisans to public safety and sustainable economic growth. Adewusi urged beneficiaries to use the opportunity wisely, expand their businesses and serve as ambassadors of safety and professionalism within their communities.

“This administration is not about empty promises. We deliver, we empower and we transform lives,” the governor declared through his deputy. He assured other artisans in the state that similar empowerment programmes would be rolled out in phases to reach more beneficiaries.

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Cooperatives and Empowerment, Hon. Prince Bayo Ogungbangbe, described the programme as a strong indication of the Adeleke administration’s commitment to sustainable development, youth empowerment and inclusive economic growth across Osun State.

Ogungbangbe highlighted several empowerment initiatives already carried out by the ministry, including cash grants, business registration support, POS distribution and cooperative financing. He said these interventions were designed to strengthen small businesses and improve livelihoods across the state.

He described the training and distribution of tyre pressure gauges as “a call to responsibility,” urging beneficiaries to apply the skills gained responsibly and maintain high professional standards in their trade.

Also speaking, the Osun State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Mr. Leye Adegboyega, commended the state government for organising the programme. He said the initiative was aimed at deepening professional knowledge and improving daily practice among vulcanizers to protect vehicles and enhance public confidence.

Adegboyega praised the Adeleke administration for its commitment to road safety, human capacity development and the empowerment of grassroots professionals. He urged participants to use the knowledge acquired to grow their businesses and contribute to safer roads across the state.

The event attracted government officials, leaders of artisan associations and road safety stakeholders, marking another milestone in Osun State’s effort to link economic empowerment with public safety and community development.

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Moniepoint opens applications for DreamDevs Tech Talent programme cohort 2

Nigeria Startup News
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Moniepoint opens applications for DreamDevs Tech Talent programme cohort 2

Moniepoint Inc, Africa’s leading digital financial services provider, has announced the opening of applications for the second cohort of its flagship DreamDevs initiative. The programme is a transformative effort aimed at bridging the tech talent gap in Africa by equipping recent graduates with industry-ready skills and real-world experience.

Open to graduates across Nigeria, DreamDevs serves as a national talent search for the next generation of world-class engineers. Each year, only 20 high-potential candidates are selected to join an intensive bootcamp, with the top performers moving on to internship and full-time roles at Moniepoint. The previous cohort recorded four hires, including three interns and one full-time engineer, highlighting the programme’s success as a high-impact talent pipeline.

The initiative targets graduates from technology, computer science, engineering, and related fields who have basic programming knowledge in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Participants will undergo a nine-week bootcamp designed to deliver hands-on training from experienced software engineers. The most outstanding candidates will receive six-month internship placements at Moniepoint, with a chance to secure full-time employment based on performance.

Felix Ike, Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer at Moniepoint Inc, said, “The results from our first cohort validated our belief that with the right training and support, Africa’s young tech talent can compete globally. This year, we’re doubling down on our commitment by aiming to convert half of our participants into full-time employees. For us, DreamDevs is all about creating sustainable career pathways that drive Africa’s digital economy forward.”

The programme supports Moniepoint’s broader vision of using technology to power the dreams of millions and engineer financial happiness across Africa. It also complements the company’s existing talent development initiatives such as HatchDev, a collaboration with NITHub Unilag that produces 500 specialised developers annually across software engineering, intelligent systems, and IoT/embedded systems. Additionally, it aligns with the company’s Women-in-Tech initiative, now in its fifth year, which continues to promote gender inclusion in technology.

DreamDevs also supports the Federal Government’s 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, for which Moniepoint is a key sponsor. While 3MTT focuses on providing mass technical training nationwide, DreamDevs takes a more specialised approach by offering participants a structured pathway from foundational training to employment. This creates a comprehensive talent development ecosystem that helps build a stronger digital workforce in Nigeria.

“We’re proud to support the government’s vision of building three million technical talents while also creating direct employment opportunities through initiatives like DreamDevs,” Ike added. “This multi-faceted approach ensures we’re contributing to national goals while simultaneously addressing our industry’s immediate talent needs. By investing in young people and providing them with practical experience, startup incubation support, and product development opportunities, we are not only creating high-impact jobs but also driving sustainable economic growth across the continent.”

Sharing his experience, Victor Adepoju, a member of the first DreamDevs cohort and now a Backend Engineer at Moniepoint, said, “The organisation of the program was top-notch. The training covered a wide range of topics and provided a solid foundation I could continue to build on. I learned a great deal about cloud technologies, particularly Google Cloud Platform. The program also emphasised valuable soft skills, including planning, organisation, and prioritisation, which have been very useful in my day-to-day work.”

Selection for the new cohort will be based on technical aptitude, learning potential, and alignment with Moniepoint’s values of innovation and excellence. Interested and qualified graduates are encouraged to apply before the January 20 deadline through the official portal at dreamdevs.moniepoint.com.

Ondo Govt urges youths to embrace Adiye Irorun poultry programme

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Ondo Govt urges youths to embrace Adiye Irorun poultry programme

The Ondo State Government has called on youths in the state to take advantage of its poultry empowerment initiative, describing it as a genuine effort aimed at building sustainable livelihoods.

The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Agriculture and Agribusiness, Mr Rotimi Akinsola, made this known on Wednesday during the graduation ceremony of the first batch of beneficiaries held in Isuada, Owo Local Government Area.

Akinsola explained that the programme, tagged Adiye Irorun, was designed for 75 unemployed youths across the state and featured a six-week paid training in poultry production. He stated that the initiative was created to give participants hands-on experience while also supporting them financially throughout the training period to help them smoothly transition into business owners.

According to him, the graduation of the first batch was a clear sign that the programme was genuine, adding that all beneficiaries were paid for their services and could now act as ambassadors to encourage other young people to participate.

He further disclosed that participants from other parts of the state would graduate in the coming weeks, noting that the main goal was to help them achieve financial independence and establish their own poultry farms.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr Samuel Ajewole described the programme as impactful and youth-driven, while Akinsola presented cheques worth N8.5 million to participants for their services.

Alive Till Dawn Sets Nigeria’s First Zombie Horror Film Milestone

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Alive Till Dawn Sets Nigeria’s First Zombie Horror Film Milestone

The first Nigerian zombie-themed movie, produced by Leo Obienyi and co-produced by actor Uzor Arukwe, has drawn attention as a groundbreaking addition to the country’s film industry. Directed by Sulaiman Omotola Ogegbe with a screenplay by Daisy Olowu, the film marks a major shift toward genre experimentation in Nollywood.

Titled “Alive till Dawn,” the movie stars Uzor Arukwe, Shine Rosman, Michael Dappa, Chisom Agoawuike, and Sani Mu’azu, alongside other supporting cast members.

According to the producers, “Alive till Dawn” tells the story of a deadly outbreak that turns people into flesh-eating zombies, pushing survivors to confront fear, violence, and moral choices as they struggle to stay alive until daybreak. The narrative captures the chaos that follows as order breaks down and humanity is tested.

Industry watchers say the film’s reception will determine if more locally produced zombie and post-apocalyptic movies will find space in Nigerian cinemas.

Glo Launches Travel Saga Gaming Experience

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Glo Launches Travel Saga Gaming Experience

Globacom has launched Travel Saga, a premium high-octane gaming experience now live and available exclusively to Glo subscribers, setting a new benchmark in mobile entertainment.

Travel Saga is described as a richly woven, story-driven role-playing adventure designed to deliver the rush, depth, and competitive intensity found in some of the world’s top action titles. According to the company, the game has been meticulously optimized for mobile devices, offering a console-grade experience on data-enabled handsets and redefining mobile gaming as a digital battlefield.

At its core, Travel Saga takes players through fast-paced virtual adventures set in iconic global locations. Gamers are immersed in missions, pitched battles, and expanding storylines, where strategy, skill, and stamina decide who rises to become a war hero in the evolving gaming universe.

Beyond the action, subscribers can explore different destinations, take part in thrilling challenges, and compete for in-app rewards such as victory badges and points. Each level is designed to increase engagement, maintaining excitement and drive with every achievement.

Globacom explained that the service is offered through flexible subscription plans priced at ₦100 per day and ₦250 per week, with both one-time and auto-renewal options. Customers can join by dialing *70021# to gain immediate access to the game.

“With Travel Saga, Glo once again affirms its commitment to innovation and premium digital experiences,” the company stated, adding that it brings world-class gaming within easy reach of subscribers, offering nonstop action, adventure, and competition powered by the Glo network.

TotalEnergies sells 10% Renaissance JV stake to Vaaris in $800m deal

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TotalEnergies sells 10% Renaissance JV stake to Vaaris in $800m deal

TotalEnergies has agreed to sell its 10 per cent non operated stake in Nigeria’s Renaissance Joint Venture, formerly the Shell Petroleum Development Company Joint Venture, to local energy firm Vaaris in a deal valued at $800 million. The move marks another key step in the company’s ongoing reshaping of its Nigerian portfolio and wider upstream strategy.

The transaction, which is still subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions, will see TotalEnergies divest interests across 18 onshore and shallow water licences located in the Niger Delta. The Renaissance Joint Venture is currently held by with 55 per cent, Renaissance Africa Energy Company Ltd with 30 per cent as operator, EP Nigeria with 10 per cent, and Agip Energy and Natural Resources Nigeria with five per cent.

Under the agreement, TotalEnergies will transfer its 10 per cent interest in 15 oil producing licences and three gas producing licences to . However, the company will retain full economic interest in the gas licences, a structure designed to protect its long term commitment to Nigeria LNG. The gas assets currently provide about 50 per cent of the feedstock supplied to , making them central to the country’s gas export and domestic supply plans.

The structure of the deal reflects TotalEnergies’ strategic shift in Nigeria, with a clear reduction in exposure to non operated onshore oil assets while strengthening its position across the gas value chain. Gas remains a core focus as Nigeria seeks to expand cleaner energy options and as the company aligns its local operations with its global low carbon strategy.

The divestment follows several major portfolio moves completed by TotalEnergies in 2025. These include its entry into the PPL2000 and PPL2001 offshore exploration blocks in August, an increase in its stake in OPL257, and the sale of its non operated interest in OML118, both finalised in November. Together, the transactions point to a shift toward operated, growth focused offshore and gas led assets.

Despite exiting the Renaissance Joint Venture, TotalEnergies says it remains committed to Nigeria’s upstream and gas development. That position was reinforced by the final investment decision taken in 2024 on the Ubeta gas project in OML58, aimed at boosting domestic gas supply and supporting LNG exports.

Nigerians to pay 7.5% VAT on mobile transfers, USSD and POS fees

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Nigerians to pay 7.5% VAT on mobile transfers, USSD and POS fees

Nigerians will start paying a 7.5 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on fees of selected banking services from January 19, 2026, as part of a new government-backed regulatory directive aimed at standardising VAT collection across the financial sector.

The development made available to Nigeria Startup News was disclosed in a customer notice issued by Moniepoint, which explained that it has been mandated to collect and remit VAT on certain service charges in line with national tax regulations. The VAT collected will be paid to the Nigerian Revenue Service, previously known as the Federal Inland Revenue Service.

Note that the VAT will be charged on FEES and CHARGES on transfers only and NOT on amount transferred.

In the notice, Moniepoint stated, “From Monday, 19 January 2026, we are required to collect a 7.5 per cent VAT, to be remitted to the Nigerian Revenue Service. VAT will apply to certain banking services that include electronic banking charges such as POS transaction fees, mobile banking fees for transfers, USSD transaction fees, POS activation fees, card issuance fees and Moniebook subscription. It also applies to other fees such as loan processing and documentation fees.”

The company further clarified that not all financial transactions will be affected by the new VAT requirement. According to the notice, “Services that do not attract VAT include interest on loans and advances, as well as interest on deposits and savings. This means VAT applies only to banking or service fees and not to interest earned or charged.”

Addressing concerns from customers, Moniepoint emphasised that the deduction is not a unilateral adjustment. The notice read, “This is not a price increase by Moniepoint. Moniepoint is required to collect and remit VAT to the Nigerian Revenue Service. The NRS has communicated a deadline of 19 January for all financial institutions, including commercial banks, microfinance banks and electronic money transfer operators, to start collecting and remitting VAT.”

Customers were also informed that the VAT charge will be clearly reflected in their records. The company explained that VAT deductions will appear separately on transaction reports and account statements to ensure transparency and allow customers identify applicable charges.

The new VAT enforcement is expected to directly affect millions of Nigerians who rely daily on mobile banking platforms, POS services, and USSD channels for routine financial transactions, as applicable service charges will now attract the 7.5 per cent tax from the implementation date.

Shettima commends MIT’s $1.5bn entrepreneurship, innovation impact

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Shettima commends MIT’s $1.5bn entrepreneurship, innovation impact

Vice President Kashim Shettima has commended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) for its transformative impact on global entrepreneurship and innovation, which has generated over $1.5 billion and created more than 30,000 direct jobs in the past 20 years.

He made the remarks on Wednesday when he received a delegation from the Kuo Sharper Foundry Fellowship 2025-2026, led by MIT’s Executive Director for the Kuo Sharper Centre for Prosperity and Entrepreneurship, Dina Sherif, during a courtesy visit at the Presidential Villa.

The Vice President urged African entrepreneurs to unite and collaborate in order to fully harness the continent’s vast potentials, while taking advantage of MIT’s network for resource mobilization and job creation.

According to him, “Africa is the new frontier and the future belongs to the continent, but its people must unite to transform potentials into tangible results that impact lives and livelihoods.”

He emphasized that Africa is rich in both human and material resources but needs greater cooperation among its people to benefit from the opportunities that exist across the continent.

Shettima further noted that President Bola Tinubu is taking bold steps to transform Nigeria’s economy and improve the living standards of its citizens. “President Tinubu is not afraid of taking bold decisions that will reposition Nigeria’s economy and better the lives and livelihoods of the people,” he said.

Earlier, Dina Sherif explained that the visit was to brief the Vice President on the activities of the Kuo Sharper Centre for Prosperity and Entrepreneurship. She stated that the Centre is focused on “fueling the engine of entrepreneurship across the world,” while reaffirming its commitment to strengthening entrepreneurial capacity, especially in Africa.

Sherif highlighted that the Kuo Sharper Foundry Fellowship programme has significantly promoted the spirit of entrepreneurship across the continent and that the team’s presence in Nigeria was part of efforts to further deepen collaboration with local innovators and business leaders.

She also noted that Nigeria remains a leading country in Africa’s startup growth, reflecting the resilience and creativity of its entrepreneurs.

Sherif assured that the Centre will continue to support African startups through various initiatives designed to boost innovation and prosperity.

Also present at the meeting were the Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar, and several fellows of the Kuo Sharper Foundry Fellowship 2025–2026 session from across Africa.

NSIPA moves to improve delivery of social programmes in 2026

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NSIPA moves to improve delivery of social programmes in 2026

The National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) has begun steps to improve how its social programmes are measured and delivered to Nigerians. The agency held a capacity-building workshop on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, to strengthen result-driven performance assessment of its 2026 deliverables and indicators.

The workshop focused on reviewing and adopting the Central Results Delivery Coordinating Unit (CRDCU) reporting framework as applicable to the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction and NSIPA. It also identified and validated the agency’s high-impact deliverables and performance indicators for 2026.

The session brought together Programme and Departmental Managers and CRDCU focal officers to discuss deliverables that will drive the implementation of Presidential priorities and ministerial mandates under the Renewed Hope Agenda. Participants also reviewed operational challenges, encouraged teamwork among departments, and explored solutions to improve the impact of government programmes that directly affect citizens, such as GEEP, N-Power, and the National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme.

Declaring the event open, Mr. Hamza Baba, National Programme Manager for GEEP, who represented the Acting National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer, said the workshop was a vital step to ensure all NSIPA activities remain focused on results and public impact.

Speaking during the session, Dr. Binta Ibrahim, Head of Planning, Research and Statistics (PRS), described the CRDCU framework as more than a compliance tool. “The CRDCU template provides a clear framework to measure performance across ministries, agencies and parastatals. Targets are not just numbers on paper; they are commitments that must be clear, measurable and achievable and must translate into tangible impact for citizens,” she stated. She urged participants to use the workshop to promote accountability, innovation, and excellence within the agency.

Senior officials present included Abdullahi Maikudi, Director of Finance and Accounts; Dr. Binta Ibrahim, Deputy Director and Head of PRS; Akinyemi Olumide, Deputy Director of Finance and Accounts; Mr. Attari M. Hope, Deputy Director and Head of Information and Public Relations; Dr. Madu Uba, Assistant Director, N-Power; Dr. Princess Aderemi F. Adebowale, National Programme Manager, Renewed Hope National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme; and Aishat Alubankudi, National Programme Manager, Grant for Vulnerable Groups.

Participants agreed to finalize the 2026 deliverables and indicators for submission through the CRDCU reporting cycle and establish follow-up systems to monitor progress and address identified bottlenecks.

NYSC unveils new protocol for Corps Members with disabilities

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NYSC unveils new protocol for Corps Members with disabilities

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has unveiled plans to adopt a new standardized protocol for handling Corps Members with disabilities during the Orientation Course and throughout the service year.

The Director-General of NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, made this announcement during his keynote address at the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Pre-Orientation Workshop held in Jos, Plateau State. The event, themed “Revamping the NYSC Orientation Course Experience as a Foundation for Impactful Service by Corps Members,” focused on improving the welfare and inclusivity of participants in the National Service Scheme.

According to the Director-General, the initiative is part of NYSC’s broader welfare strategy aimed at promoting dignity, inclusion, and equal opportunity among all Corps Members.

“It underscores our commitment to leaving no one behind and positioning the NYSC as a humane, progressive, and nationally responsive institution,” he said.

He emphasized that emotional intelligence and empathy must be key principles guiding all interactions between Corps Members and Camp officials.

General Nafiu highlighted that the Orientation Course remains the foundation of a successful service year and must continually reflect Nigeria’s realities, global best practices, and the evolving behavior of the youth.

He noted that the course should deliver relevant and measurable outcomes that would enable Corps Members to integrate into their host communities and live productive and impactful lives after service.

“It is in this context that the Pre-Orientation Workshop becomes essential because it will analyze emerging challenges and develop practical improvements that will genuinely enhance the National Service experiences and effectively address modern realities,” he said.

The Director-General commended NYSC officials and partner agencies for their teamwork, which has helped the Scheme achieve significant success in past Orientation exercises.

He encouraged workshop participants to propose ideas that will enhance innovation, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen institutional capacity. He also called for improved Camp management and stronger engagement among stakeholders.

“We expect technology-driven engagements and innovative contributions to transform the Orientation Course into a dynamic launchpad for transformative National Service that would prepare Corps Members not just to serve, but to lead, innovate, and make significant impact on national development,” he added.

In his welcome address, the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr. Nura Umar, said the theme of the workshop was timely and strategic. He noted that it reflects the vital role of the Orientation Course in shaping the mindset, discipline, and overall conduct of Corps Members.

He explained that the workshop would review past Orientation exercises, identify challenges, and strengthen inter-agency collaboration to deliver better services in Camp.

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