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Kano Governor Distributes Vocational Tools to Over 2,000 Trained Youths

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Kano Governor Distributes Vocational Tools to Over 2,000 Trained Youths

The Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba K Yusuf, has distributed vocational tools and equipment to over 2,000 youths who successfully completed various vocational training programmes across the state.

The distribution took place on Sunday as the Governor presided over the Graduation Ceremony and Distribution of Start-up Capital and Work Tools to beneficiaries trained at different Skill Acquisition Institutes across Kano State.

The event marked a step in the administration’s drive for youth and women empowerment, with more than 2,000 male and female beneficiaries receiving practical skills, start-up equipment, and financial support aimed at helping them become self-reliant.

Beneficiaries were trained in diverse vocational trades and supported with essential working tools and start-up capital, reflecting a move from policy promises to practical empowerment designed to reduce unemployment, curb poverty, and promote economic independence.

Officials described the initiative as part of ongoing investments in human capital development and sustainable livelihoods for residents of the state.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Governor said the programme was designed to give beneficiaries the means to create value and support their families through productive work.

“This is not just a graduation ceremony, but a new beginning for thousands of families, powered by a government that believes in empowering its people to stand on their own.”

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FG considers increasing BEA scholarship monthly stipend to $750

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FG considers increasing BEA scholarship monthly stipend to $750

The Federal Scholarship Board has disclosed that it is considering an upward review of the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) monthly stipend from $500 to $750, following the planned removal of fraudulent beneficiaries and the recovery of misappropriated funds within the approved budget framework.

This clarification was contained in a press release issued by the Federal Ministry of Education, which warned the public to disregard what it described as a coordinated campaign of misinformation aimed at discrediting the ministry, the , and the Renewed Hope Agenda on education.

According to the statement, the ministry “unequivocally reiterates its position that the purported BEA award letters currently circulating on social media are fake and fraudulent.” It added that the signatures on the documents do not belong to the Director or Secretary of the Federal Scholarship Board, noting that a careful review of the materials reveals “glaring inconsistencies.”

The ministry stressed that forgery is a serious criminal offence and confirmed that the matter has been formally reported to relevant law enforcement agencies. “For the avoidance of doubt, no BEA award letter was issued by the Federal Scholarship Board in the year 2025,” the statement said.

It further advised that any individual currently holding such forged letters should return to Nigeria immediately, explaining that the ministry has no record of, nor responsibility for, such individuals’ presence abroad and that “no financial disbursement whatsoever will be made to them.”

The press release stated that all legitimate entitlements have been settled except for outstanding shortfalls for 2023 and 2024. However, it explained that all payments are currently suspended pending the conclusion of a comprehensive investigation into widespread fraudulent practices involving supposed beneficiaries of the programme.

Preliminary investigations have uncovered what the ministry described as disturbing levels of misconduct by some individuals previously listed as beneficiaries. These include students who have dropped out, been expelled for poor academic performance, or are currently incarcerated abroad, yet continue to receive stipends through proxies.

Other cases involve individuals who have returned to Nigeria or relocated to other countries but still collude with fraudulent claimants by submitting forged documents to continue receiving monthly payments. The investigation also found beneficiaries who changed their programme of study, university, or city in violation of scholarship agreements, using public funds to pay tuition in unauthorized institutions.

The ministry disclosed that investigations revealed the complicity of certain individuals, including fellow students and possibly corrupt officials, who aided and facilitated the fraudulent claims. Alarmingly, preliminary findings indicate that about 50 percent of the programme’s budget has been lost to these activities.

According to the statement, funds meant for genuine and deserving students were diverted to individuals who now constitute the majority of those on the payroll, representing “a gross breach of the terms and conditions of the BEA scholarship.”

In response, the Honourable Minister of Education has formally engaged the and relevant international partners to investigate the abuses. Official correspondence has also been sent to Nigerian embassies and partner countries to commence a comprehensive and verifiable audit of all BEA beneficiaries abroad.

The ministry noted that some embassies relied on proxy-based verification instead of physical checks supported by video evidence, a lapse now under review. It said every kobo lost to fraud over the past five years will be traced and recovered, with all culpable individuals prosecuted.

To support the process, legitimate students were encouraged to report illegitimate beneficiaries anonymously to the Director of the Federal Scholarship Board via 08126803658. Whistleblowers with credible information will receive $150 per confirmed case.

Standard Chartered Bank Opens 2026 Paid Internship Programme

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Standard Chartered Bank Opens 2026 Paid Internship Programme

Standard Chartered Bank has announced the opening of applications for its 2026 Internship Programme, offering young talents the chance to gain paid work experience in a global financial institution. The bank described the opportunity as a “hands-on internship that gives you a real taste of life in a global bank – where your ideas matter and your growth is a priority.”

According to the announcement, the internship goes beyond just paid work experience. “It’s your opportunity to explore the world of banking, make lasting connections, and lay the foundations of a career with purpose,” the statement read. The programme aims to expose participants to a wide range of professional skills, industry knowledge, and career-building experiences across multiple regions including the Americas, Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

The internship, which also doubles as a graduate trainee pathway, is sponsored by Standard Chartered Bank and open to applicants from all countries. It runs for a duration of 12 months and comes with benefits such as a monthly salary, compensations, and both technical and professional skills training. The bank stated that the application deadline has not yet been specified.

The eligibility criteria require applicants to be in their final year of study for a university degree or higher, or to have graduated within the last two years. They must also have the permanent legal right to work in the country where they are applying. However, exceptions exist in specific regions. “For the UK and UAE, we consider candidates requiring visa sponsorship, but in the UAE, priority will be given to UAE nationals,” the bank said. It also clarified that for graduate roles in the United States, applications from candidates seeking Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT) employment will not be accepted.

Participants in the 2026 Standard Chartered Bank Internship Programme will undergo an extensive global learning experience throughout the year. This will include talent assignments, technical and professional skills training, workshops on future skills development, targeted online learning, thought leadership events, and real-life business problem solving.

The bank further explained the structure of the programme, beginning with induction sessions that include classroom learning, case studies, and technical training tailored to business functions. The 12-month training rotation features five months in a focus area, followed by two-month rotations in Financial Markets, Transaction Banking, and Risk. The final six months will be spent in a business rotation within CCIB Client Coverage, allowing interns to discover the team that best aligns with their career goals.

Standard Chartered Bank emphasized its commitment to supporting participants with tools, mentorship, and a strong professional network to help them become innovative change agents within the organization.

Link: https://www.sc.com/en/global-careers/early-careers/our-programmes/intern/

Fourth Mainland Fund Opens Applications for African Digital Creators

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Fourth Mainland Fund Opens Applications for African Digital Creators

The Fourth Mainland Fund, a new investment vehicle focused on African digital creators and storytelling ventures, has officially opened for applications. The fund is designed to support creators building sustainable businesses across the continent.

The fund is anchored by a minimum personal commitment of $500,000 from Chude Jideonwo, with capital to be deployed gradually as fund managers identify investible creators and ventures. According to the fund, it is structured as “an investment, not a grant,” with a focus on long term value creation rather than one off funding.

Fourth Mainland Fund targets storytellers and creators working primarily on digital platforms, paying close attention to subscription, community, and streaming based revenue models. It stated that there are no fixed requirements for audience size or existing revenue, noting that “each potential investment will be assessed on its own merits.”

The fund adopts a flexible investment approach, ranging from hands off backing to active operational support, depending on what best suits each creator or venture. Investment structures may include licence rights, equity investment, and intellectual property rights, depending on the specifics of the business.

Pitches will be accepted on a rolling basis, and only successful applicants will be contacted. Interested creators are advised to submit their pitches via https://www.fourthmainland.com/pitch.

Following the announcement, individuals expressed interest in contributing capital. As a result, the fund has been opened beyond the initial commitment through a closed investment club. Those interested can reach the team at ceo@joyinc.xyz.

A’Ibom Gov urges youths to take advantage of government programmes

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A’Ibom Gov urges youths to take advantage of government programmes

The Akwa Ibom State Government has urged young people across the state to take advantage of ongoing government programmes designed to support skills development, productivity, and peaceful coexistence, as part of efforts to sustain stability and long-term growth.

The call was made by Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, during a breakfast meeting with the leadership of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Akwa Ibom State chapter. The Governor said his administration remains focused on creating opportunities that allow youths to contribute meaningfully to governance and community development.

Governor Eno explained that the creation of the Ministry of Youth Development was a deliberate step to coordinate programmes that directly respond to youth needs and aspirations. According to him, initiatives such as the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre and the Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurial Development Centre are central to the state’s plan to improve skills, promote entrepreneurship, and enhance economic empowerment among young people.

He urged youths to actively participate in these programmes, stressing that productivity and peace among the youth population are critical to securing the future of the state. Speaking on political participation ahead of the 2027 elections, the Governor cautioned young people against being used as tools by politicians, advising them to promote peace and stability in their communities.

“Peace is essential for development, and the role of young people in sustaining it cannot be overstated,” the Governor said, while encouraging them to focus on self-improvement and positive engagement.

The Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, described the youth council as an important platform for grooming future leaders. He commended the Governor for providing opportunities for young people through appointments, training, and empowerment initiatives, and encouraged them to remain law-abiding and committed to personal growth.

Also speaking, the Member of the House of Representatives for the Oron Federal Constituency, Hon. Martins Esin, praised the Governor’s youth-focused policies. He noted that the proposed youth development centres across the 31 local government areas would further expand access to opportunities for young people.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr Ekerette Ekanem, thanked the Governor for prioritising youth advancement and supporting capacity-building efforts across the state.

Leaders of the Youth Council, including the State Chairman, Comrade Emmanuel Ekong, alongside representatives from various local government areas, commended the administration’s commitment to youth welfare and pledged continued collaboration with the state government to achieve shared development goals.

Read also: Osun suspends dealings with NYCN over leadership crisis

Osun suspends dealings with NYCN over leadership crisis

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Osun suspends dealings with NYCN over leadership crisis

Osun State Government has suspended dealings with the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) due to ongoing controversy and leadership crisis within the state chapter pending the outcome of ongoing investigations.

The government notes with concern the deepening leadership feud and controversies bordering on allocated resources and has consequently ordered an investigation into the issues by a three-man committee composed of unaffiliated nominees.

This was disclosed on Sunday.

“While the investigation is ongoing, the government has resolved to implement the directive of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development which was handed out to all ministries and stakeholders of the youth sector in late 2025.”

The Federal Ministry had communicated to all stakeholders the withdrawal of the certificate of registration of the NYCN by the Corporate Affairs Commission and had subsequently withdrawn dealings with the national leadership due to deep-rooted infighting, factionalisation, and confrontations.

“As the Osun State chapter is also now enmeshed in a similar crisis, the government hereby suspends further dealings with the body pending the outcome of the investigation.”

While the apparent politicisation by the opposition of issues within the youth sector is obvious, it added that “the government wishes to assure the public that normalcy, transparency, and accountability will be restored to the sector through the machinery already set in motion.”

BOI Begins Approval of RAPID Loan Applications

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BOI Begins Approval of RAPID Loan Applications

The Bank of Industry (BOI) has commenced the approval process for applicants under the Rural Area Programme on Investment for Development (RAPID) loan scheme. Applicants who applied for the BOI RAPID loan are advised to regularly check their dashboard, as loan approvals have begun.

Successful applicants will see their Application Status displayed as “Approved” on the dashboard.

Application Requirements: If an application is successful, the applicant will be required to provide the following:

  1. One (1) guarantor for loans up to N5 million, and two (2) guarantors for loans above N5 million.
  2. A lien on the assets financed.
  3. Execution of a GSI mandate.

Please note that the application form can no longer be edited after submission.

To check the status of your BOI RAPID loan application, visit https://rapid.boi.ng/login to confirm whether your application has been approved.

150,000 apply for National Health Fellows programme 2.0

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150,000 apply for National Health Fellows programme 2.0

Over 150,000 applicants from across Nigeria’s 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) have applied for the National Health Fellows Programme (NHF) 2.0 as physical interviews commence on Monday, January 12, 2026.

This was disclosed in a media statement issued on Sunday by the SWAp Coordination Office under the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. The Office also announced the commencement of the final interview stage of NHF 2.0, scheduled to begin nationwide on Monday, January 12, 2026.

“This marks a pivotal moment in a national journey that began with an open public call, attracting over 150,000 applicants from across Nigeria’s 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs).”

The National Health Fellows Programme is a flagship initiative that provides a unique opportunity for a new generation of health system leaders, one from each LGA, to learn, observe, and actively participate in Nigeria’s ongoing health sector-wide reforms.

The selection process has been thorough, inclusive, and merit-based, beginning with digital screening tools designed to optimise fairness and efficiency, followed by multiple layers of rigorous shortlisting. The top-performing candidates are now set to undergo in-person interviews in their respective states.

Each state-level interview panel is composed of representatives from: • World Health Organisation (WHO) State Coordinator (Chair)
• State Ministry of Health
• State Primary Health Care Development Agency
• Academia
• ALGON Chair in each state
• Traditional leaders
• SWAp Desk Officer (Secretary)

This multi-stakeholder structure reflects Nigeria’s strong commitment to equity, transparency, and inclusive governance in health leadership development.

According to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate,
“This process is part of our nation-building effort. We commend the extraordinary interest shown by young Nigerians and reaffirm our commitment to fairness, transparency, and excellence. We look forward to meeting and empowering the finest candidates from each LGA, who will help drive the transformation of our health system.”

The Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako, added:
“What we are witnessing through this programme is a new model of talent discovery and human capital development for the health sector. It is encouraging to see so many young Nigerians rise to the call to serve. The integrity of this process will ensure that only the most committed are selected to lead change from the grassroots.”

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Kachollom S. Daju, mni, emphasised:
“This programme is helping to institutionalise a culture of transparency and excellence within our public service recruitment processes. The Fellows we select will not only support health delivery; they represent the values and future we are building across the entire system.”

Following the interviews, selected Fellows will proceed to a residential national training programme in Abuja, after which they will be deployed to their LGAs to champion innovation, accountability, and community-driven health interventions.

NHF Cohort 2 Physical Interview Begins Nationwide This Week

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NHF Cohort 2 Physical Interview Begins Nationwide This Week

The National Health Fellows (NHF) Cohort 2 final interview sessions commence nationwide this week. NHF applauds all applicants for reaching this stage and wishes them the very best in the process.

Candidates’ commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s health system is truly inspiring. All candidates are encouraged to step forward with confidence and be fully prepared for this important stage.

The Federal Government has also commended candidates for confirming their availability for the next stage of the NHF 2.0 selection process, which is the physical interview.

Physical interview details, including interview location, date, and time, have been sent to the email addresses of successful candidates. These details are also accessible via the candidate portal.

Required documents: Candidates are to bring seven (7) hard copies of each of the following documents for the interview panel:

  1. NYSC Discharge Certificate or Exemption Letter
  2. LGA Indigene Certificate
  3. University/School Certificate
  4. Birth Certificate or Declaration of Age
  5. Current Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  6. National Identification Number (NIN) slip

All candidates must ensure they arrive at the interview venue at least one hour before their scheduled interview time.

Good luck to all successful candidates.

Group Launches Legacy Education Programme in Nnaka

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Group Launches Legacy Education Programme in Nnaka

The Orient Progressive Social Forum is set to unveil the first edition of its Legacy Education Endowment Programme in Nnaka, Anambra State, as part of its corporate social investment efforts.

The programme aims to support students in remote communities across the Southeast by providing access to basic computer education. It is specifically designed for junior and senior secondary school students preparing for Computer-Based Tests (CBT) in JSS3, SSCE, NECO, and JAMB examinations. According to the organizers, the training will help students develop practical computer skills needed to perform well in these exams.

The launch event will take place on January 11, 2026, at St. Catherine’s Comprehensive Secondary School, Nnaka. As part of the initiative, a functional and solar-powered computer center will be established at the school, equipped with more than two dozen computers. The center will serve as a learning hub for students to practice and build confidence in using digital tools for examinations.

Speaking on the project, a member of the organizing team noted that the initiative aims to “bridge the digital gap between rural and urban students and ensure equal access to quality education.”

The event will attract notable figures including the Anglican Bishop of Aguata Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Samuel C. Ezejiofor, HRH Igwe Godwin Ezeilo (Obu Nnaka), and High Chief (Sir) Osita Ezechukwu (JP) KSC Orike-EZE Nnaka, a co-sponsor of the project, among others.

The Orient Progressive Social Forum is known for championing social innovation among Igbo professionals, businessmen, and technocrats. It seeks to build a strong network of entrepreneurs and professionals contributing to key sectors of the Nigerian economy.

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