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Over 28,000 Apply for 4,000 Abia Teaching Jobs

A total of 28,213 applicants have applied for 4,000 teaching positions advertised by the Abia State Government. The Commissioner for Information in the State, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Monday in Umuahia, the state capital, while briefing journalists on the outcome of this week’s state executive council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.

He said the employment was the second batch of the teachers recruitment exercise, which officially commenced with the opening of the application portal on November 6, 2025, and which closed officially on Friday, November 29, 2025. He explained that following the closure of submissions, applicants were granted a review window to verify and correct their application details.

He said, “The window for verification of submissions closes this week. The applicants will be sent thereafter to sit for computer-based tests. Those who pass the tests will now go for the interview. It is worthy to recall that the state government plans to employ an additional 4,000 teachers from this exercise, to add to the 5,394 teachers earlier employed sometime in the last year.”

Kanu also noted that, in line with the state government’s continuous effort to safeguard the lives and properties of Abia residents, steps have been taken to inaugurate the Abia State Safe Schools Steering Committee. He said the committee was set up as part of the government’s response to the growing need to secure educational institutions in the state following emerging security concerns across the country.

According to him, “During the inauguration, it was highlighted that the committee will serve as a multi-sectoral strategic platform to coordinate state-level implementation of the Safe Schools Declaration, to develop and monitor safeguard and protection protocols for schools across the state. Stakeholders from the education, security, humanitarian, and civil sectors are encouraged to mobilise financial and technical resources for safer learning spaces across the state.”

The Commissioner also revealed that the state has continued to make progress in its digitalisation drive through the Office of the Chief Information Officer. He said the office had recorded several major digital milestones.

He explained, “First is the establishment of a Document Installation Bureau, which the Office of the CIO jointly established with the Ministry of Lands, and this is for land records and processing. This is one of the first around the state. The second milestone is the establishment of a centralised online recruitment platform. This will enable access and equity in government employment. The third digital milestone is the redesigned Abia State Government website, which now serves as a primary source of all key government information about the state. The fourth and final milestone is the implementation of the e-Health Project with six pilot institutions automating their records and hospital management.”

Kanu said the state government has also procured and distributed laptops to all senior government officials as part of its effort to digitalise public service operations. He said this move was designed to improve efficiency and promote a culture of excellence among government workers.

“This is the first of its kind in the state, and the state government is one that encourages its workers to be the best they can be,” the Commissioner added.

He further stated that the Ministry of Education had commenced monitoring school resumption across the state to ensure compliance with reopening guidelines. He noted that education officers are being deployed to oversee both basic and secondary education levels, ensuring that schools resume smoothly and maintain proper standards.

Kanu said work is progressing across the state on the government’s mass school projects. He pointed out that the state has achieved significant milestones in infrastructure, equipment, and teacher training for the smart schools being developed under the initiative.

He said, “A very significant milestone has been recorded in terms of infrastructure, equipment, and training for the teachers who will run the smart schools in the state when fully operational. Two of the smart schools may be off for commissioning sometime in February.”

Speaking further, the Commissioner confirmed that the State’s urban mass transit operation officially commenced on December 24, 2025. He described the initiative as part of Governor Alex Otti’s plan to improve mobility and reduce transportation challenges within the state.

He said, “The scheme commenced with three inter- and intra-city bus rides. During the two-week pilot period, operations were conducted across key mobility corridors within the state. Currently on offer are three intra-city routes in Umuahia and three intra-city routes in Aba. Other routes on offer are inter-city corridors from Aba to Umuahia and from Umuahia to Ohafia, respectively. Bus deployments during this period range from four buses on low-demand days to 17 buses on peak operational days.”

Kanu said the pilot phase recorded a strong commuter response, with thousands of residents participating in the free test rides. According to him, “The pilot phase, of course, has recorded a very strong commuter response, indicating trust in government-led transport initiatives. Within this pilot phase, over 31,500 passengers have enjoyed these free bus rides and counted. In the days ahead, full commercial operations will commence.”

He also stated that the infrastructure supporting the mass transit service is nearing completion. These include the construction of a bus terminal in Umuahia, improvement works at key junctions in the city, and the installation of charging stations for electric-powered buses.

The Commissioner noted that the progress being recorded across different sectors of the state reflects the administration’s commitment to improving education, transport, digital governance, and public service delivery. He said the government will continue to implement projects that bring value to residents while maintaining transparency and inclusiveness in all its recruitment and development efforts.

Throughout the briefing, Prince Okey Kanu emphasised that the government of Abia State, under Governor Alex Otti, remains focused on providing better opportunities for teachers, students, and citizens at large through education, innovation, and sustainable infrastructure.

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France launches volunteer military recruitment for youth

France has started a campaign to recruit thousands of young people for a new 10-month voluntary national military service, with the first group beginning in September. The program, announced by President Emmanuel Macron in November, is aimed at citizens aged 18 to 25 who want “to play a part in the nation’s capacity to resist in an uncertain environment,” according to the chief of staff of the armed forces, General Fabien Mandon, during a press conference.

This move aligns with a wider shift across Europe, where countries that have long relied on U.S. security are becoming concerned about President Donald Trump’s changing foreign policy priorities and what they see as Russia’s increasing aggression.

Starting in September, about 3,000 young people will join the army, navy, or air force for missions within France. The number is expected to rise to 4,000 in 2027 and reach 10,000 each year by 2030. Participants will earn around 800 euros ($935) per month and take on roles that include assisting during natural disasters, conducting anti-terrorism surveillance, and supporting in various technical and service positions such as drone operators, bakers, mechanics, electricians, and medical staff.

After completing the program, participants will have options to return to civilian life, join the reserves, or remain in the armed forces. Defense Minister Catherine Vautrin said the plan “marks the long-term evolution of the army toward a hybrid model.” She added that “the scheme is expected to cost 150 million euros in 2026 and a total of 2.3 billion euros between 2026 and 2030.”

Read also: US Army Recruitment Opens Enlistment and Officer Pathways

US Army Recruitment Opens Enlistment and Officer Pathways

The United States Army has opened applications for multiple pathways for individuals seeking to enlist as Soldiers or become commissioned Officers, expanding opportunities for those interested in military service.

This update was announced in a post shared on the United States Army official X page, outlining eligibility requirements and enlistment options for prospective applicants.

According to the Army, the recruitment update applies to both U.S. citizens and permanent residents who hold a valid Green Card, provided they meet required age, education, medical, and physical standards.

The Army explained that requirements differ depending on whether an individual plans to serve as an enlisted Soldier or as a commissioned Officer.

For enlisted Soldiers, who are responsible for day-to-day operations and directly support the success of their unit’s mission, applicants must be between 17 and 34 years old. They must be medically and physically fit and must be either a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident with a valid Green Card.

Enlisted candidates are also required to possess a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification and must achieve the minimum required score on the Army’s entrance examination.

For those seeking to become commissioned Officers, who lead missions, make critical decisions, and ensure the safety of Soldiers under their command, the Army stated that applicants must be at least 17 years old but under 31 in the year they are commissioned. Candidates commissioning through the U.S. Military Academy at West Point must be under 27.

Officer applicants must be medically and physically fit and must be U.S. citizens by the time of commissioning. They are also required to hold a college degree before commissioning and complete a background check as well as a security clearance process.

The Army further outlined a structured five-step enlistment process for those pursuing enlisted roles across more than 200 available career fields. This process includes speaking with a recruiter, taking the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery entrance test, completing a physical examination at a Military Entrance Processing Station, selecting a career field based on test scores and personal interests, and signing a contract before preparing for Basic Training.

For Officer candidates, the Army highlighted several commissioning pathways. These include the Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Officer Candidate School, and Direct Commission options for professionals in specialised fields such as medicine and law.

“If you choose Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) or the U.S. Military Academy (USMA), you’ll become an Officer after completing four years of college. If you’re going through Officer Candidate School (OCS) or direct commission, the time it will take to join will depend on when you finish your four-year degree and complete specific courses and certifications related to your branch,” the Army stated.

Providing more insight, the Army noted that it offers several education and training benefits designed to reduce the cost of schooling and professional development for recruits and serving personnel.

These benefits include ROTC scholarships that help cover tuition and school supplies, as well as access to the GI Bill. The GI Bill supports college education, graduate studies, training programmes, and professional certifications for Soldiers who have served for at least three years.

The Army also offers the Green to Gold programme, which allows active-duty Soldiers to pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees while earning a commission as Officers. In addition, the Army Credentialing Opportunities Online programme supports Soldiers in obtaining certifications and licences that are useful for both military duties and civilian careers.

Eligible Soldiers can access Tuition Assistance of up to $4,000 each year to support education or professional training. They can also benefit from Defence Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support programmes, which are provided at no cost.

Additional benefits highlighted include access to standardised test preparation courses, opportunities to earn college credit for military training, direct transition pathways to participating colleges while still in service, and education, licensing, and career support for eligible military spouses.

The Army added that serving can shorten the U.S. citizenship residency requirement for Green Card holders, noting that naturalisation eligibility can begin from the first day of Basic Training.

Interested applicants are to visit https://my.goarmy.com/ and apply.

TETFund begins Phase 2 Agricultural Commercial Farms for Polytechnics

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The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has commenced Phase 2 of its Agricultural Commercial Farms Intervention, inviting eligible polytechnics and colleges of education across the country to apply for support aimed at boosting commercial agriculture, research, and student training in tertiary institutions.

This was announced in a statement on Monday by the management, which explained that the intervention is designed to strengthen agricultural education while improving food production and practical learning outcomes in tertiary institutions nationwide.

“As part of measures aimed at advancing modern agricultural practices through effective teaching, research, and entrepreneurship training, TETFund is promoting the establishment of commercial farms and livestock production in Tertiary Institutions,” the statement said.

The Fund noted that the programme builds on earlier efforts already implemented in the university system. According to the statement, “under the first phase of the programme, ten (10) Universities were selected across the country. The Phase 2 Agricultural Commercial Farms Intervention is for Polytechnics and Colleges of Education that will be selected competitively across the country.”

TETFund outlined clear selection criteria for institutions interested in benefiting from the intervention. The criteria include the following:

a. The institution must be a TETFund Beneficiary Polytechnic or College of Education with a School of Agricultural Technology or a School of Vocational and Technical Studies that has significant student enrolment.
b. The institution must have a large expanse of land of at least fifty (50) hectares for agricultural purposes, with a freehold land title that is not encumbered by any joint venture or private ownership.
c. The institution must already operate a commercial farm and agribusiness with at least one value chain covering crop production, animal production, fisheries, or poultry.

TETFund further explained that funding under the intervention will be strictly controlled. “The funds to be disbursed shall be directed solely at the enterprise for commercial production and sale to the public,” the statement said. It added that proposals must also show plans for training students in modern agricultural techniques and the adoption of technology.

The Fund stated that approved proposals will receive grants in stages. “Upon the approval of the proposal, the funds shall be disbursed as grants in tranches based on pre-determined milestones and verified satisfactory performance,” it said.

Beneficiary institutions that meet the requirements are required to submit an Expression of Interest in two copies. The submission must include:

• Survey plan of land designated for commercial agriculture
• Evidence of existing commercial agricultural venture or enterprise
• List of approved accredited agriculture-related courses and programmes
• Students’ enrolment figures
• Number of specialized academic and technical staff, including Chief Lecturers, Principal Lecturers, Senior Lecturers, Lecturers II–I, Lecturers III, Assistant Lecturers, and Agricultural Engineers or Technologists
• Financial statements relating to the agricultural venture or enterprise

“The Expression of Interest should reach the Office of the Executive Secretary, Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), No. 6 Zambezi Crescent, Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama, Abuja, not later than Friday 9th February 2026,” the statement added.

INEC opens journalist accreditation portal for Rivers bye-elections

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced online accreditation for journalists intending to cover the Rivers State Bye-Election in Ahoada East II and Khana II Constituencies scheduled for February 21, 2026. The announcement was made on Monday.

According to INEC, the accreditation portal opens on Monday, January 12, 2026, and closes on Sunday, February 8, 2026. The Commission stated, “Late submission shall not be entertained as the portal will automatically shut down at 12:00am (midnight) on Sunday, 8th February, 2026.” INEC further noted that there will be no extension of time.

Interested media organisations are to apply via https://imap.inecnigeria.org. Enquiries can be made via 07088844564 or 08032861058

NJFP 2.0 Application Video Pitch: What to Say and Do

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To Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) 2.0 applicants, here’s a simple guide on what you need to know about your application video pitch.

Your video pitch is a critical part of your application. Here’s how to get it right.

Your video pitch must meet all requirements for you to move to the next stage.

Make sure you record in a quiet indoor space. Public or noisy environments may lead to disqualification.

Ensure your face clearly matches your NYSC and NIN records, speak clearly, dress professionally, and submit only accurate, high-quality videos on the portal.

False or poor-quality submissions will be disqualified. If you do not have a good camera, use a friend’s phone or laptop.

Let’s recap briefly…

  1. Before you record, use a computer or phone with a strong internet connection.
  2. You must record on the portal, as NJFP 2.0 does not allow video uploads.
  3. You will have multiple chances to re-record before submitting.

NJFP 2.0 Video Submission: What to Say and How

Answer the question: “What makes YOU the ideal NJFP Fellow?”

Record in a quiet indoor space.

Noisy or public environments could disqualify you.

As your final checks, make sure your face clearly matches your NYSC and NIN IDs and that you speak clearly. Dress professionally too, even if it means wearing your best clothes.

Submitting false or poor-quality videos means automatic disqualification.

NFWP Initiative to Open Bank Accounts for 3.1 Million Women

The Nigeria for Women Programme – Scale-Up Project has announced plans to open bank accounts for 3.1 million women across the country, reducing the number of unbanked women in Nigeria from about 37 million to 34 million. The initiative, backed by the World Bank and the Federal Government, is being implemented in collaboration with participating states to institutionalise Women Affinity Groups and other structures that promote women’s economic empowerment.

Speaking at a state-level orientation programme for staff in Asaba, Delta State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Dr Sunny Ekedayen, said the state had both the financial resources and human capacity to implement the project successfully.

Dr Ekedayen, who also chairs the project’s Multi-Sectoral Coordination Structure, stated that the initiative would empower women, strengthen family systems, and help build more resilient communities across the state. He revealed that the programme would begin with three pilot local government areas—Ethiope East, Ika North East, and Warri North—and that community engagement would start from the grassroots level.

He called on staff to demonstrate full commitment to the project, noting that their dedication would determine its success. “Your commitment will not only drive the success of this project but will also ensure the positive transformation of families and communities across Delta State,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Community and Social Development, Dr Pat Ajudua, said the programme aligns with her ministry’s mandate to improve the social and economic well-being of women in the state. She highlighted the need to ensure that women are not left behind in the state’s development efforts.

“We must ensure our women are equipped with the skills, confidence, and platforms they need to live productive and dignified lives,” Dr Ajudua said.

Acting Delta State Project Coordinator of the Nigeria for Women Programme – Scale-Up, Mrs Abigail Okonkwo, explained that the scheme targets economically active women aged 18 years and above, who will form Women Affinity Groups made up of 15 to 25 members. She added that the programme will be implemented in four phases over five years, covering community institution building, livelihood support, and monitoring and evaluation.

Participants at the orientation workshop, drawn from the ministries of Health, Agriculture, Water Resources, Women Affairs, and Economic Planning, received training on communication protocols, gender-based violence, and financial management.

Read Also: How to Apply for NFWP Grant in Nigeria (Full Guide)

NAPRI crossbreeds White Fulani cows with exotic breeds to boost milk

The National Animal Production Research Institute (NAPRI) has made notable progress in cattle breeding after successfully crossing White Fulani cows with foreign breeds to boost milk production. The development marks a major step in its efforts to improve Nigeria’s dairy output through scientific and genetic innovation.

Programme Leader for the NAPRI Dairy Research Programme, Dr Na’imatu A. Sani, said the success achieved through this crossbreeding process aligns with the institute’s national mandate to improve indigenous cattle productivity.

Speaking on the development, she explained that “a crossbred cow developed at NAPRI through the crossing of White Fulani cows with exotic breeds currently produces up to 15 litres of milk per day, compared to the 3–4 litres typically produced by indigenous breeds.” She described the result as one of the institute’s strongest breakthroughs in local dairy development.

According to Dr Na’imatu, the NAPRI Dairy Research Programme has also recorded additional progress in milk production through what she called simple but effective managerial interventions. She said the average milk yield increased from five litres to seven litres per cow per day among the institute’s crossbred cows.

The programme leader explained that this improvement was due to better water management and feeding systems. “We improved the quality and accessibility of water through repairs of the existing water system and by providing additional watering points,” she stated.

She added that the noticeable improvement in the quality of NAPRI yoghurt over the past month was a direct result of increased milk production at the NAPRI dairy farm and the improved quality of milk supplied by vendors. Dr Na’imatu described NAPRI yoghurt as the cheapest 100 percent fresh cow milk yoghurt in Nigeria, saying, “Milk quality directly determines the quality of yoghurt produced.”

She disclosed that NAPRI has now set a target to increase on-farm milk production by 200 percent in 2026 through affordable and impactful dairy research driven by its team of researchers and technical staff. “In line with this, the management has purchased an additional F1 breeding bull from Arla Farms to enhance crossbreeding,” she said.

Dr Na’imatu revealed that within the past month, the programme had already achieved about 50 percent of this target. “Increased milk production by cows will further reduce production costs and enhance affordability of dairy products to the public in line with the core mandate of our programme and the institute at large,” she added.

She also disclosed that NAPRI was working towards starting bottled water production after plans were made to repair the previously non-functional bottling lines.

However, she listed poor power supply, lack of internet facilities, dilapidated infrastructure, and inadequate research funding as some of the major challenges faced by the programme. Dr Na’imatu expressed appreciation to the NAPRI leadership for its continuous support in helping the programme meet its goals.

Terra Industries Raises $11.75m to Scale African Defense Technology

Terra Industries, a Nigeria-based defense technology startup, has raised $11.75 million in a funding round led by Silicon Valley venture firm 8VC. The company aims to scale its autonomous systems and software solutions designed to help African governments and businesses protect critical infrastructure from increasing security threats across the continent.

The funding round also saw participation from Valor Equity Partners, Lux Capital, SV Angel, and Nova Global, as well as African investors such as Tofino Capital, Kaleo Ventures, and DFS Lab. Terra previously raised an $800,000 pre-seed round and said investor interest grew after the company gained international attention following a CNN feature.

Founded by 22-year-old Nathan Nwachuku and 24-year-old Maxwell Maduka, Terra Industries designs and deploys multi-domain defense systems that cover air, land, and eventually sea operations. The systems are built to monitor, detect, and respond to threats such as terrorism, sabotage, and armed attacks on critical assets. The company is headquartered in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.

According to Nwachuku, who serves as Terra’s chief executive officer, the company was created to address what he described as Africa’s most significant constraint to sustained growth — insecurity. He explained that while the continent is experiencing industrial expansion and has a growing young population, security challenges continue to threaten development progress.

“The goal is to build Africa’s first defense prime, to build autonomous defense systems and other technologies that protect our critical infrastructure and resources from armed attacks. We want to take the defense of our continent’s resources and infrastructure into Africa’s own hands,” Nwachuku said.

Terra’s products include both long- and short-range drones for aerial surveillance, ground drones, and fixed surveillance towers designed to cover large areas around sensitive sites. The company is also developing maritime technologies to secure offshore facilities like oil rigs and underwater pipelines.

At the center of Terra’s operations is its proprietary software platform, ArtemisOS. The platform collects and analyzes data from the deployed systems in real time. When potential threats are detected, ArtemisOS alerts response units such as security agencies, helping them act faster and more effectively.

Nwachuku said that many African countries face challenges not because they lack weapons but because of limited access to sovereign intelligence. Much of the intelligence data used by African states still comes from foreign powers in the West, China, and Russia. Terra’s long-term goal is to create locally owned intelligence and defense infrastructure to reduce this dependence.

The company’s workforce reflects its defense focus. Around 40 percent of Terra’s engineers are former members of the Nigerian military. Co-founder and chief technology officer Maduka previously served as a Nigerian Navy engineer and had started a drone company when he was 19. 8VC’s Alex Moore, who specializes in defense investing, now sits on Terra’s board, while Nigeria’s Vice Air Marshal Ayo Jolasinmi serves as an advisor.

Terra has already begun generating revenue, earning more than $2.5 million from commercial customers, according to the company. It said it is currently protecting assets worth about $11 billion, including hydropower plants, mines, and power infrastructure, with most of its clients based in Nigeria. The company also confirmed it recently secured its first federal government contract but declined to share specific details.

Terra’s business model includes selling its hardware systems to both government and commercial clients, with recurring annual fees charged for data processing and storage. The company said this model supports sustainability and long-term engagement with clients.

With the new funding, Terra plans to expand its manufacturing capacity across Africa, build more defense factories, and strengthen its artificial intelligence and software development teams. Although the company intends to open software offices in San Francisco and London, it stated that manufacturing will remain in Africa to encourage job creation and support local capabilities.

“We are the first truly Pan-African defense company. If Africa is to break free from the constraints that have held it back, then the core infrastructure and resources that drive its economies must be fully protected,” Nwachuku said.

As security challenges continue to shape Africa’s economic and industrial growth, Terra Industries is positioning itself as a key player in developing homegrown defense technology. The company believes that by building and operating these systems within Africa, it can contribute to a safer and more self-reliant industrial future for the continent.

Afreximbank provides $64m funding for Levene Energy gas sector entry

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The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has approved a $64 million acquisition finance facility for Levene Energy Development Limited to back its equity investment in Bluecore Gas Infraco Limited. The funding will help Bluecore Gas Infraco acquire a 30 percent equity stake in Axxela Limited, one of West Africa’s leading gas and power infrastructure companies.

This transaction gives Levene Energy a strong foothold in Nigeria’s regulated midstream and downstream gas sectors. It also marks a major shift from its main focus on oil and refined petroleum products trading to more stable, infrastructure-based income streams. The move aligns with Levene Energy’s long-term goal of becoming a fully integrated energy company with consistent, infrastructure-backed revenues.

The investment goes beyond business growth, as it also supports Africa’s energy transition agenda by improving access to natural gas. Axxela is known for its investments in gas infrastructure, power generation, and cleaner energy solutions, and is positioned to play a major role in driving Nigeria’s shift to cleaner energy. The company’s strong project pipeline, regional partnerships, and improved business model place it in a good position to expand sustainable growth across West Africa.

Speaking about the financing, Haytham Elmaayergi, Afreximbank’s Executive Vice President for Global Trade Bank, said the deal aligns with the bank’s goals under its Leadership in Global Trade Banking, Intra-African Trade, and Industrialisation Pillars. “Our core strength lies in the strategic partnerships we forge with African champions. This deal reflects the Bank’s commitment to promoting private sector investment into critical infrastructure, fostering energy security across Africa and strengthening regional value chains in oil and gas. By backing Levene Energy’s strategic move into gas infrastructure, we are supporting the critical transition to cleaner energy sources, enhancing regional energy security, and strengthening intra-African value chains.”

On his part, Sam Aofolaju, Head of Corporate Development at Levene Energy, said the support from Afreximbank will accelerate the company’s expansion beyond commodity trading into renewable energy and gas infrastructure. “The financing from Afreximbank not only validates our vision but underscores our shared belief that resilient, locally owned infrastructure is the foundation for lasting economic development across Africa,” he said.

The partnership between Afreximbank and Levene Energy began in 2019 with trade finance support and has since developed into a broader collaboration, backing Levene’s transition from a downstream operator to a leading pan-African energy and gas infrastructure investor.