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ABU Zaria Receives 23,040 Applications For 453 Job Vacancies

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ABU Zaria Receives 23,040 Applications For 453 Job Vacancies

Ahmadu Bello University Zaria has announced that its online portal for job applications has officially closed following the expiration of the deadline on Wednesday, 3rd December 2025. The university disclosed that interest in the positions was very high, with a total of 23,040 applicants competing for just 453 vacancies across different departments and units, making the exercise highly competitive.

According to the institution, 3,568 people applied for the position of Graduate Assistant, which has only 50 openings, while 2,457 candidates sought the Assistant Lecturer role with 90 available slots. The Administrative Assistant post also attracted 4,947 applications despite having only 10 spaces. In addition, 1,175 candidates applied for Data Processing Assistant, where 25 positions are available, and 654 applicants contested for Accountant II, which has just 7 slots.

The university stated that anyone who fails to meet the advertised requirements will be automatically disqualified. Applicants were advised to revisit the employment criteria for each position through the official website for clarity.

“Applicants are advised to cross-check the employment criteria for each position at https://careers.abu.edu.ng for the avoidance of doubt,” the report noted.

The next stages of the recruitment exercise will involve screening, shortlisting and interviews. “The University Management hereby reiterates its commitment to conducting the exercise with a high sense of responsibility,” the statement signed by the Registrar, Rabiu Samaila added.

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Apply for Zamfara Internal Revenue Service (ZIRS) Recruitment

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Apply for Zamfara Internal Revenue Service (ZIRS) Recruitment

The Zamfara State Internal Revenue Service (ZIRS) has opened applications for recruitment exercise, calling on qualified and competent individuals to apply for various positions. The agency said the move aligns with its mandate to enhance revenue mobilization and administration in the state.

ZIRS seeks skilled professionals who show integrity, competence and commitment to public service. The positions available span across Tax Administration, Legal and Compliance as well as Public Enlightenment and Communication. For Inspector of Taxes II, applicants must hold a degree in Accounting, Economics, Taxation or related fields with 0 to 3 years post NYSC experience.

For the Legal and Compliance unit, candidates must hold a Law degree, LL.B and BL, while public communication roles require qualifications in Mass Communication, Public Relations or related disciplines. The agency noted that media and communication certifications will be added advantages. Professional certifications such as CITN, ICAN, ANAN and ACCA are also considered valuable.

General requirements stated that applicants must be Zamfara State indigenes, between the ages of 18 and 35 for entry level roles, and must possess good character with no criminal record. They must be medically fit and certified by a government hospital, have a valid Tax Identification Number and be tax compliant. Candidates should hold a minimum of HND or Bachelor’s Degree with at least a Second Class Lower Division or equivalent, and must present a birth certificate or declaration of age.

The service emphasised required competencies, including ICT proficiency, analytical skills, strong communication abilities, teamwork, leadership potential and attention to detail.

Participation in the recruitment means successful candidates may be posted anywhere in the state based on organizational needs. “Deployment is not restricted to your Local Government Area,” it stated.

The application portal opens on Friday, 05 December 2025 at 12:00 PM and closes on Thursday, 18 December 2025 at 12:04 AM.

Interested applicants are directed to apply via https://recruitment.zamfara.gov.ng/zirs.

Obi pledges to pay NECO fees for 148 Anambra inmates

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Obi pledges to pay NECO fees for 148 Anambra inmates

Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has pledged to fund the National Examinations Council fees for 148 inmates across correctional centres in Anambra State. Obi made the commitment on Sunday after receiving a delegation representing inmates from the facilities in Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi and Aguata.

He said the inmates were at risk of being stopped from continuing their examinations unless the outstanding fees were cleared within a set deadline. According to him, the representatives explained that NECO had approved their participation provided all fees were settled. Many of the inmates had already begun their examinations but were uncertain about completing them due to lack of funding.

Based on figures presented to Obi, 50 inmates were registered in Awka, 36 in Onitsha, 25 in Nnewi and 37 in Aguata, making a total of 148 candidates. Each candidate is required to pay ₦30,050 for examination fees, while ₦2,000 is also needed for logistics, bringing the total financial cost to ₦4,741,400. Obi said he had assured the delegation that he would guarantee payment and work with associates and supporters to ensure the funds were raised in time.

“I will write to the representatives on Monday to guarantee that the fees will be paid so that the inmates can continue with their examinations,” he said. He noted that education remained a key tool for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Obi also drew ideas from his recent visit to California State University, Sacramento, where he saw programmes designed to support vulnerable and formerly incarcerated persons. He referenced the Guidance Scholars Programme, which supports children from foster homes, and Project Rebound, which helps formerly incarcerated individuals return successfully to society through education.

He said the experiences strengthened his belief in inclusive leadership that values second chances and creates social support systems that help national growth. The former governor also raised concerns about the wider state of inmate education across Nigeria, noting that learning opportunities in many correctional centres remained limited.

He argued that many people who end up in correctional facilities do so due to lack of access to education and economic opportunity. According to him, correctional centres should exist as places of reformation rather than punishment alone, with education and skills training forming major parts of their purpose.

“When individuals complete their terms, they must be equipped to contribute positively to themselves and to society,” Obi said. “These young men deserve a real chance to turn their lives around and become productive members of the community.”

UNESCO Launches Teacher Empowerment in Bayelsa and Five States

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UNESCO Launches Teacher Empowerment in Bayelsa and Five States

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has launched the second phase of the European Union (EU) funded education project known as Education and Youth Empowerment in Nigeria, Expand, Integrate and Strengthen Systems (EISS) to Build Teachers’ Capacity and Resilience.

The project officially commenced in Bayelsa State alongside five other states which include Adamawa, Enugu, Oyo, Plateau, and Katsina.

Speaking during the programme opening, the head of office and UNESCO representative in Nigeria, Dr Jean-Paul Ngome Abiaga, said the initiative aims to improve the country’s education sector through investment in teacher development.

“This initiative reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s education system by investing in the professional resilience, collaboration, and effectiveness of teachers—the backbone of learning and national development,” he stated.

He explained that the introduction of Teacher Learning Teams (TLTs) is a major part of the programme. According to him, these teams will provide a platform for teachers to learn from one another, upgrade their skills, and build stronger relationships with students and communities.

“The focus of today’s engagement—the establishment of Teacher Learning Teams (TLTs)—is at the heart of UNESCO’s vision for sustainable teacher development. TLTs create a platform where teachers learn from one another, strengthen their pedagogical practices, and build deeper connections with their students and communities. Evidence from around the world shows that when teachers collaborate, student learning improves, school communities thrive, and education systems become more equitable and resilient,” he said.

Ngome Abiaga emphasised the importance of school mapping which will also take place under the project in Bayelsa. He noted that it will help generate reliable data on school facilities and teacher distribution.

He praised the Bayelsa State government and residents for embracing the programme, describing their support as essential to its success and the growth of education in the state.

“Through collaboration with SUBEB, the state ministry of education, and LGEAs, this activity will generate vital, geo-referenced data on school locations, teacher deployment, and infrastructure. These data will feed directly into the national Teacher Management Information System (TMIS) and support smarter planning, effective clustering of schools, and more impactful implementation of TLTs,” he said.

He also commended the EU for funding the project and acknowledged the federal ministry of education for aligning the initiative with national standards and priorities.

FG Launches N1bn Family Business Grant for 3000 Akwa Ibom Households

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FG Launches N1bn Family Business Grant for 3000 Akwa Ibom Households

The federal government through Vice President Kashim Shettima on Saturday launched a N1 billion family-based business grant in Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency of Akwa Ibom State, describing it as a practical step in turning democratic promises into real economic support for ordinary citizens. He said the initiative reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s focus on programmes that directly uplift families and stimulate inclusive growth across the country.

Speaking at the launch of the Renewed Hope/ARISE Agenda grant programme, the Vice President stated that Nigeria’s progress depends on empowering people to become active contributors to national development. According to him, sustainable change will only come when citizens are encouraged to build, produce, and create value.

“There is greater honour in empowering a man to create than in offering him a fleeting gift. True empowerment endures because it teaches the mind to search for its own doors, its own pathways, and its own opportunities,” he said.

The initiative was conceived by the member representing Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon Unyime Idem, to provide seed capital to families for starting or expanding small businesses. Shettima explained that it aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on economic growth, job creation, support for micro, small and medium enterprises, social protection, and poverty reduction.

He said, “This gathering aligns with the principle that democracy works when the dividends promised by us reach families at the grassroots, uplift our communities, and expand opportunities for all. Democracy finds its true essence not in speeches but in interventions that touch the lives of ordinary people in extraordinary ways.”

The Vice President commended the partnership between federal and state governments, applauding Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda which focuses on agriculture, rural development, small enterprise support, and social inclusion. According to him, the synergy shows how leadership should work for the people.

“This is what governance should look like: a seamless convergence of federal and state agendas at the exact point where citizens feel the impact. When leadership aligns in purpose, the people inherit progress,” he said.

Shettima stressed that the family-based approach would boost local businesses, drive household income, empower women and youth, reduce dependency, and build productivity and self-reliance among beneficiaries. “When a family is empowered, a community is empowered; when a community is empowered, a nation is strengthened,” he explained.

The Vice President encouraged recipients to use the capital wisely, noting that it could serve as a foundation for generational progress. He assured those not captured in the first round that subsequent phases would reach them. He presented the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam project as an example for leaders nationwide.

“You have demonstrated that politics is most noble when it delivers hope, opportunity, and dignity. So, I extend to you the gratitude of the nation, and I congratulate Rt. Hon. Unyime Idem for recognising the danger of a nation left idle, and for choosing instead to invest in the industrious spirit of his people,” he added.

Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, appreciated the Vice President for consistently honouring the state’s invitations. She described him as not just a leader but also a brother embraced by Governor Umo Eno and the people of the state.

“Your frequent visits to Akwa Ibom State have demonstrated a commitment to our people and our development. I am confident that our governor has graciously extended his hospitality to you, reflecting the strong bonds we share as sons of this great state,” she said.

She encouraged the beneficiaries to invest the funds wisely to support their businesses and strengthen the local economy.

Hon Unyime Idem thanked the Vice President for attending and revealed that 3,000 families benefited from the scheme. He emphasized that the distribution was transparent and open, reflecting the shared goals of both federal and state governments.

“What it, therefore, means is that the Renewed Hope Agenda of the federal government and the ARISE Agenda of the state were fully captured,” he explained. He added that the enthusiastic beneficiaries would support President Tinubu’s reelection bid, saying they were ready to return him to office in 2027.

Lagos Distributes Mechanised Tools to 2000 Farmers to Boost Food Security

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Lagos Distributes Mechanised Tools to 2000 Farmers to Boost Food Security

The Lagos State Government has taken a major step toward boosting food security through the distribution of modern agricultural tools, inputs, and financial support to farmers operating in nine sites under the National Programme for Food Security in the State. The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms Abisola Olusanya, said the intervention shows Lagos is committed to upgrading farming systems and helping farmers increase production and create better livelihoods.

She revealed this at the 2025 Farmers Field Day/Appreciation Day held at the Lagos State Agric Cooperative Hall in Oko-Oba. The event carried the theme “Transitioning from Simple Tools to Mechanised Equipment.” Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Emmanuel Audu, Olusanya explained that Lagos, with a population of over 24 million, must adopt modern farming systems to meet its rising food needs.

“Today’s programme demonstrates the shift in agriculture from simple handheld tools to mechanised farming, which is the pathway to improved agricultural productivity in Lagos State,” she said. She explained that farmers across NPFS sites are receiving mini-tractors, power tillers, solar-powered sprayers, fish-smoking kilns, poultry feed, fish feed, deep freezers for artisanal fish processors and other needed tools to ensure better yields.

“In addition to the equipment, beneficiaries are also receiving cash grants to support the purchase of agrochemicals and other vital inputs. The intervention will benefit about 2,000 farmers to boost food production and improve livelihoods in farming communities,” she stated. She encouraged beneficiaries to use the items responsibly, adding that the distribution signals the beginning of sustained government backing for farmers in Lagos.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Lagos State House Committee on Agriculture, Hon. Olotu Emmanuel, represented by Committee Secretary, Mr Babatunde Olajide, assured of legislative support for agriculture. “The Chairman and the entire committee are committed to providing the legislative backing needed to sustain and expand this initiative,” he said.

The Coordinating Director of the Lagos State Agricultural Development Authority, Mrs Aderonke Toju-Tubi, gave an overview of the NPFS, describing it as a federal initiative launched in 2002 and adopted by Lagos in 2011 to support vulnerable farmers and improve food supply. She noted that the programme initially began with three sites in Lagos but has now grown to 10 because of its success and impact.

She further stated that the core aim of the intervention is to help farmers move from manual operations to mechanised practices that will push productivity and income levels. She urged beneficiaries to protect the items given and use them for maximum output within their communities.

Students free to choose subjects as FG clarifies ICT rename

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Students free to choose subjects as FG clarifies ICT rename

The Federal Ministry of Education has again moved to calm rising concerns over subject choices under the revised Senior Secondary School Curriculum after weeks of confusion triggered by unofficial lists and conflicting information shared across schools and social platforms. The latest guidance follows reports of schools instructing students to drop subjects or switch combinations due to fears that some courses had been removed or restricted.

In a statement issued in Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa FAMedS, CON, and the Minister of State for Education, Professor Sa’id Suwaiba Ahmad, said there was never a policy stopping students from choosing subjects outside their study track.

They noted that the misunderstanding mainly came from circulating claims suggesting that science students could no longer select arts or social science subjects, and vice versa. According to Dr Alausa, “there is no restriction or exclusion attached to the selection of any approved subject within the Senior Secondary School Curriculum.”

The ministers explained that the curriculum remains flexible and student centred. They stressed that all subjects are fully open for selection as long as students receive proper guidance from parents, school authorities or certified counsellors. Professor Ahmad added that a science student can still sit for economics or government, while an arts student may pick biology or agricultural science if it aligns with their interests and future plans.

Today’s clarification also addressed the confusion surrounding the former Information and Communication Technology subject. Some students had expressed fear over whether their previous ICT results would count under the new system.

The Ministry said the course was only renamed Digital Technology and the content remained the same. “Students who previously offered Information and Communication Technology are therefore fully eligible to sit for Digital Technology,” the ministers explained.

Another area of concern involved Trade Subjects, where claims surfaced that students must register for at least one of six approved trade courses even if they had never been taught them. The Ministry corrected this, saying students may register for trade subjects only if their school offers them and they have received instruction. If a student has not studied any of the trade options, there is no requirement to sit for them.

Parents, teachers and school proprietors were urged to ignore unverified information and instead guide students through credible channels as WAEC registration continues. The Ministry said it remains committed to a smooth transition into the revised curriculum and assured that no learner will be disadvantaged by misinformation.

It promised to continue providing accurate updates and ensuring that registration across the country is seamless, coordinated and supportive of students’ academic choices.

Radda applauds Katsina chairman over N30.8m empowerment

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Radda applauds Katsina chairman over N30.8m empowerment

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has praised the Chairman of Rimi Local Government, Alhaji Ali Muhammad Rimi, for launching a large empowerment programme aimed at improving lives, supporting small businesses, and boosting development within the community. The Governor made this known during his visit to Rimi today as part of his statewide engagements, where he unveiled the wide range of items provided under the programme.

The empowerment items included 55 motorcycles, 100 sewing wheels, 100 grinding machines, 50 fridges, 100 pasta-making machines, 200 cartons of Indomie noodles, 200 crates of eggs, 100 bags of flour, motor vehicles, and ₦30.8 million in financial support to selected beneficiaries across the area. Governor Radda described the effort as “a meaningful and timely intervention that will ease hardship and open new economic opportunities for traders, artisans, women, and vulnerable groups.”

He commended the council chairman for putting the welfare of people first and encouraged beneficiaries to use the items responsibly. According to him, the initiative offers “an opportunity to build independence and improve livelihoods.” He added: “Empowerment is not just the distribution of items; it is a call to responsibility. I urge all beneficiaries to remain focused, utilise these resources wisely, and position themselves for long-term growth.”

Governor Radda said the effort aligns with the state government’s plan to reduce poverty and increase economic participation at grassroots level. He noted that people stand to benefit more when such initiatives support their ability to earn income and support their families.

As part of activities in the area, Governor Radda commissioned the newly renovated Eyka Central Mosque, a project executed by the Rimi Local Government. He praised the chairman for investing in what he called “a project that strengthens both faith and community harmony,” noting that places of worship also play an important role in unity and stability.

Afterwards, the Governor paid a courtesy visit to the District Head of Katsina, Alhaji Aminu Nuhu Abdulkadir, Kauran Katsina, where he met village heads, ward heads, and community leaders. Residents turned out in large numbers to welcome him, reflecting the unity and cooperation within the district. He explained that his interaction with the traditional council was meant to deepen collaboration and acknowledge progress recorded across communities.

“Our traditional institutions remain strong partners in progress. Their cooperation has greatly supported our efforts to drive development across local communities,” he said. He stressed that the guidance and stability provided by traditional rulers remain important to advancing the government’s development agenda.

Speaking on behalf of stakeholders, Alhaji Salisu Mamman Kadandani praised Governor Radda for what he described as impactful projects delivered in Rimi. He pledged the loyalty and support of community leaders, saying both the chairman and stakeholders are committed to working with the state government to ensure continuous development.

Governor Radda was accompanied by the Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura; Senator representing Katsina Central, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’adua; Chief of Staff, Hon Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir; Principal Private Secretary to the Governor, Hon Abdullahi Aliyu Turaji; Member representing Batagarawa/Rimi/Charanchi Federal Constituency, Hon. Usman Murtala Banye; Member representing Mashi/Dutsi Federal Constituency, Hon. Salisu Yusuf Majigiri; and National APC Legal Adviser, Barrister Murtala Aliyu Kankia. Also present were the Katsina State APC Chairman, Alhaji Sani JB Daura, members of the Katsina State Executive Council, and other political leaders.

Apply for Atunlo N3m Green Earth Business Grant for climate-tech founders

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Apply for Atunlo N3m Green Earth Business Grant for climate-tech founders

Atunlo Green Earth Business Grant has opened its application for founders in climate-tech and circular economy sectors, offering support to grow impact-driven businesses. The fund, also referred to on the application form as Ayo Ogunlowo Business Grant, will provide N3,000,000 to two individuals who are ready to expand their solutions.

The grant aims to drive action, support early-stage execution, and build momentum for sustainable innovation.

The initiative targets businesses working in areas such as resource recovery, renewable solutions, and eco-friendly manufacturing. With rising climate concerns and waste pollution in African cities, organisers say access to finance remains a major barrier for young circular economy startups. “The Atunlo Green Earth Business Grant seeks to close this gap by providing financial backing and visibility for businesses with high environmental and economic impact potential,” the foundation explained.

The benefits include access to N3,000,000 funding support, improved capacity for production and technology adoption, increased visibility across the green enterprise ecosystem, and opportunities to scale climate-friendly solutions for commercial and social impact. The foundation noted that strengthening local solutions is key to building a resilient green economy.

Eligibility is open only to individuals who have an existing business in the climate-tech or circular economy space. Applicants must own a registered business with the Corporate Affairs Commission, whether as an enterprise or limited liability company. All funding will be administered through the Atunlo Green Earth Foundation.

Innovators with scalable ideas are encouraged to seize the opportunity to strengthen their environmental impact initiatives.

The application deadline is December 20, 2025.

Interested applicants are required to complete the form through the link provided on https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc83Djgbcy4_CPL0Y4kPoqjybVdaHOMs4GsDGEvVigOt9ZbBQ/viewform.

NAFDAC Orders Immediate Halt of Smuggled Food Products

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NAFDAC Orders Immediate Halt of Smuggled Food Products

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a strong warning over the rising importation, sale, and circulation of prohibited regulated food products in Nigerian markets. According to the Agency, items such as pasta, noodles, sugar, and tomato paste are currently being smuggled into the country despite being clearly listed on the Federal Government Customs Prohibition List. These products are not allowed for importation and have bypassed national safety procedures.

NAFDAC stressed that the circulation of these products violates trade laws and threatens public health because they have not passed its mandatory safety checks. The Agency explained that such practices “undermine the integrity of the country’s food control system” and expose Nigerians to possible health risks.

All importers, supermarket operators, open market traders, and stakeholders have been directed to stop the sale, importation, and distribution of all items listed under the Customs Prohibition List. The Agency advised those involved in the food supply chain to ensure full compliance and immediately alert their trading partners to halt any ongoing transactions involving the banned products.

NAFDAC warned that failure to adhere to the directive would lead to strict enforcement actions. The Agency said this may include seizure and destruction of illegal products, suspension or revocation of business licences, and prosecution under the law.

The Agency called on relevant government bodies to collaborate in tackling the problem. These include the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Shippers Council, Standards Organisation of Nigeria, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Nigerian Ports Authority, and Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service. NAFDAC urged these institutions to help enforce the prohibition of unsafe products.

NAFDAC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health and strengthening regulatory standards. Stakeholders were encouraged to provide full cooperation. The notice was signed by Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, Director-General and CEO of the Agency.

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