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Lagos trains rural youths in bread and pastry production

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Lagos trains rural youths in bread and pastry production

The Lagos State Government has taken another step to support young people by training and empowering them in bread and pastry making. This initiative is part of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s continued effort to make youths self-reliant, reduce unemployment, curb crime and strengthen economic growth across the state. The one-day training was organised by the Centre for Rural Development, CERUD, in Igbodu, Epe, bringing together youths from rural parts of Lagos to develop valuable skills that can boost their income.

Speaking at the programme, the Special Adviser on Rural Development, Dr Nurudeen Yekinni Lanre-Agbaje, represented by the Director of CERUD, Mr Musibau Balogun, noted that this was the first time the Centre was holding training and empowerment in bread and pastry production. He explained that bread and pastries remain daily foods consumed by Lagos residents, regardless of their class or location, making the business profitable for those who participate. According to him, “bread and pastries are staple foods consumed daily by Lagosians,” offering real economic opportunities for youths willing to learn and invest in the skill.

Dr Lanre-Agbaje expressed appreciation to the Governor and his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, for their ongoing interest in improving the lives of rural dwellers. He added that their support, shown through timely approval of programmes, continues to make life more comfortable for residents outside the major urban areas.

During the training, participants took part in hands-on sessions where they learnt how to make wheat bread, fruit bread, sardine bread, and pastries including egg rolls, sausages and pies. The practical focus of the programme aimed at giving them the confidence to start their own businesses immediately.

At the end of the session, beneficiaries received certificates of participation as well as starter packs to help them begin their journey. Items distributed included mini ovens, digital measuring scales, cake pans of different sizes, flour, sugar and other baking supplies.

The trainees, who expressed excitement about the gesture, thanked the Lagos State Government for the opportunity. They promised to make the best use of the skills and support received, saying they intend to improve their earnings and positively contribute to the state’s growing economy.

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Over 42,227 Trainees Receive TVET Stipend as FG Disburses N4.7bn

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Over 42,227 Trainees Receive TVET Stipend as FG Disburses N4.7bn

Over 42,227 young Nigerians have received their first monthly stipend under the Federal Government’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiative, following the disbursement of N4.7 billion through the Federal Ministry of Education. The payment marks the start of direct support to trainees across the country, allowing them to focus on their learning without financial worry.

Each beneficiary received N22,500.00 to cover transportation and basic upkeep.

In addition to trainee payments, more than 600 independent TVET centres across Nigeria have also been credited as part of the first of four tranches of payments. These funds support instructional services and skills delivery to students, ensuring training centres remain operational and equipped to guide learners.

FME confirmed that this payment round is the first step in a sustained funding structure that will continue in phases to maintain programme stability.

The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, FAMedS, CON explained that the swift rollout of financial support is in line with national leadership priorities.

He stated that “the rapid commencement of payments under the TVET Initiative is a clear execution of the President’s directive to invest aggressively in our young people”. According to him, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu “believes that equipping our youth with in-demand, practical skills is the fastest way to drive job creation, entrepreneurship, and national economic growth. This is the very essence of the Renewed Hope Agenda turning potential into productivity.”

Since starting in May, the initiative has progressed from registration to hands-on learning, with students now undergoing intensive technical training. Officials stressed that timely funding is crucial to sustaining progress and keeping youth fully engaged.

TVET continues to be showcased as one of the key pillars of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, rooted in the belief that Nigerian youth are the heartbeat of national development.

Osun Tech Hangout: Adeleke Unveils Digital City, Signs Power Reform Law

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Osun Tech Hangout: Adeleke Unveils Digital City, Signs Power Reform Law

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has said his administration is not only constructing roads and bridges but is also expanding its effort in technology, innovation, and the digital economy. He made this known on Thursday while speaking at the Osun Tech Hangout held at the State Government Banquet Hall in Osogbo, where stakeholders in innovation, science, technology, and the digital space gathered.

Adeleke told the audience that the government is opening up the electricity sector to investment and consumer satisfaction. According to him, Osun is fast becoming a leader in environmental sustainability, tech innovation, and energy diversification under his leadership. He explained that digital tools are now central in governance, noting that systems such as the Osun Investment Portal, a 45-day C of O processing model, and a unified digital annual tax billing process have made governance more efficient. “We are expanding digital access through Imole free Wi-Fi,” he added.

The governor also announced the approval of a 20-hectare Osun Digital City, which will host startups, digital enterprises, innovation parks, and hubs. “These improvements are making government operations faster and more responsive,” he said. He further highlighted the Osun One platform, a one-stop shop for government services, describing it as a tool transforming service delivery. Adeleke explained that security is also benefitting from technology with the adoption of the 293 AI-powered emergency centre, Safe City Initiative, and the Security Trust Fund.

He revealed that the Osun Tech Festival, which will hold from February 19 to 20, 2026, is designed to showcase youth creativity, attract global partnerships, and position the state as a leading technology destination. “We are preparing the next generation. ICT training and annual innovation challenges are creating opportunities for entrepreneurship and job growth,” he said.

Adeleke directed the Ministry of Innovation, Science, Technology and Digital Economy to deploy Imole EduPods, which are solar powered CBT centres, across the state to help students prepare for examinations and improve access to digital learning. He also approved the creation of the Osun Tech Trust Fund to support innovation finance and strengthen the startup ecosystem.

Speaking on the energy sector, the governor said his administration is expanding the state’s energy mix to improve access to power. He stated that a legal framework for the sector has been completed, which will encourage private investment and proper regulation. “I have signed into law the Osun State Electricity Market Bill. This is a landmark step towards subnational management and expansion of the power sector,” he noted, instructing the Ministry of Energy to begin implementation.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Innovation, Science, Technology and Digital Economy, Azeez Badmus, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to supporting startups and innovators through mentorship, resources, and guidance. He urged stakeholders to partner with the state, saying “together, we can strengthen Osun’s technology ecosystem through shared vision and partnership.”

Badmus added that the Osun Tech Hangout is an opportunity for innovators and entrepreneurs to share ideas, improve connectivity, and grow supportive innovation spaces. “Equipping our youth and future innovators is a priority,” he concluded, stating that targeted ICT training is creating pathways for opportunities, entrepreneurship, and sustainable careers.

Tinubu Empowers 250 Disabled Entrepreneurs in Kogi with N200,000 Grants

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Tinubu Empowers 250 Disabled Entrepreneurs in Kogi with N200,000 Grants

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has empowered 250 persons with disabilities in Kogi State through her Renewed Hope Initiative, providing business grants of N200,000 each to help strengthen their small enterprises. The event, held in Lokoja, formed part of activities marking the 2025 World Disability Day, themed “Fostering a Disability-Inclusive Society for Advancing Social Progress”.

Represented by Hajia Sefinat Ododo, wife of the Kogi State Governor, the First Lady highlighted the need for inclusivity and urged stakeholders to support such efforts. She revealed that “over 100,000 small business owners have benefited from RHI interventions in areas such as agriculture, social welfare, education, health, and economic empowerment”.

She further stated that the monthly RHI food outreach program has supported vulnerable communities across 22 states and the FCT. According to her, “our nation grows stronger when every individual is empowered to contribute their quota to the development of society”.

The First Lady also disclosed that the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association in each state and the FCT will receive N50 million for onward distribution to beneficiaries. This initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, targeting inclusivity and expanding opportunities for vulnerable groups.

She urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the grant, saying, “let this be a seed that grows into something greater, a business that can sustain your household and your family”. She expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his dedication toward uplifting women, children, and vulnerable groups nationwide while commending Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his continued support for citizens across the state.

The Executive Secretary of the Kogi State Office for Disability Affairs, Hon. Yakubu Abdullhakeem, praised the First Lady for championing the interests of the disability community and strengthening social inclusion in the state.

Senate moves bill to create Social Welfare Service and target extreme poverty

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Senate moves bill to create Social Welfare Service and target extreme poverty

The Senate has passed for Second Reading a major bill designed to transform Nigeria’s social protection system and cut extreme poverty nationwide. The Social Welfare Service Bill, sponsored by Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu, aims to establish a formal, centralized, and accountable structure for delivering welfare support to citizens. Lawmakers described the proposal as an important step toward building a coordinated safety net for vulnerable groups.

According to the bill, the Social Welfare Service, SWS, will be introduced as a new department under the ministry handling humanitarian affairs. The goal is to enhance and consolidate existing schemes by creating a unified system that functions across the country. The legislation states that the Service will open offices in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, ensuring welfare interventions reach communities in every geopolitical zone.

The proposed SWS will implement several types of programs. These include direct support through food packages and cash transfers, educational stipends for struggling students, and assistance with housing. The bill also highlights economic empowerment initiatives such as subsidies for marginal farmers and credit schemes to support small businesses. Allowances for the elderly and persons with disabilities are also part of the planned framework.

Senators stressed that accountability remains a core pillar of the bill. The document outlines the creation of dedicated Safety Centres nationwide to manage operations and monitor services. It also mandates a national beneficiary register to record recipients and track graduates of the programs. Lawmakers said this register will help measure long term results by monitoring how beneficiaries improve after exiting the support schemes.

The bill sets strict eligibility rules to prevent political manipulation and ensure assistance is targeted. These categories include households with incomes below N5,000 per month, day laborers earning less than N3,000 per job, low income artisans, subsistence farmers, and residents of documented slum communities. Sponsors explained that this approach aims to focus government resources on those most in need.

After debate, the bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Public Service for thorough legislative review. The committee is expected to submit its report within four weeks, marking the next step in shaping what senators described as a potential breakthrough in Nigeria’s fight against poverty.

NCDC to Partner German Agency on North Central Development Programmes

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NCDC to Partner German Agency on North Central Development Programmes

The North Central Development Commission (NCDC) has opened talks with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) to build a strategic partnership for delivering major programmes in its mandate. A delegation led by Prof. Mohammad Bashar Nuhu, Executive Director of Finance and representative of Managing Director/CEO Dr. Cyril Yiltsen Tsenyil, visited GIZ’s Abuja office for the engagement.

Prof. Nuhu said the NCDC is currently laying the foundation for its operations and stressed the value of working closely with established development partners. He noted that GIZ has a proven track record in supporting development efforts in Nigeria and beyond. According to him, the Commission was established under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to fast-track growth across the North Central region. He highlighted priority areas such as agriculture, mineral development, infrastructure, power and renewable energy, peace and social cohesion, entrepreneurship, as well as youth and women empowerment.

Other top officials on the visit included James Abel Uloko, Executive Director of Corporate Services, Princess Atika Ajanah, Executive Director of Projects, and Hajiya Aisha Ibrahim, Executive Director of Commercial and Industrial Development. They expressed confidence that a partnership with GIZ would strengthen the Commission’s capacity to deliver, especially in job creation, economic development, and addressing security challenges in the region.

Welcoming the delegation at the Sustainable Economic Development Cluster Centre, Kikelomo Collins Chibeze, Head of Component for Policy Strategy and Dialogue, described the creation of the Commission as timely. She said it holds major potential to transform communities across North Central states.

Chibeze highlighted GIZ’s ongoing programmes in Niger, Plateau, Nasarawa, and the FCT, focusing on peace and security, entrepreneurship, sustainable economic growth, youth empowerment, and job creation. The GIZ team pledged commitment to continued engagements to build the emerging partnership.

Nigerian Breweries Trains 360 Retailers Under EDGE 2025 Programme

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Nigerian Breweries Trains 360 Retailers Under EDGE 2025 Programme

Nigerian Breweries Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigerian retailers and sub-distributors through targeted entrepreneurial capacity training aimed at improving business growth and sustainability. This pledge was made by the Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Thibaut Boidin, during the closing-out ceremony of the Empowerment to Drive Growth and Excellence (EDGE) 2025 programme held recently in Lagos.

The EDGE initiative, which began in July 2025 in Awka, was developed in response to challenges highlighted by retailers who participated in the company’s Voice of Customer sessions. According to Nigerian Breweries, these discussions revealed that many business owners were struggling with operational stability, proper financial management, and attracting and retaining customers. The company explained that EDGE was built to address these concerns by equipping retailers with business knowledge, digital tools, and post-training consultancy to help them operate more effectively.

“In the past year, navigating Nigeria’s business and economic environment, we have witnessed many retail and sub-distributor outlets shutting down. Our customers made it clear that they needed stronger business support, and EDGE was our response: Empowerment to Drive Growth and Excellence. Through this programme, we trained over 360 customers across 12 regions, equipping them with practical skills, business tools, and free inventory apps to help reduce losses and strengthen their operations. At Nigerian Breweries Plc, we believe that when our customers grow, we grow. EDGE reinforces our unwavering commitment to being true partners in progress,” Boidin said.

The programme covered 360 high-value retail outlets and sub-distributors across 12 regions in Nigeria. Participants were exposed to modules designed to strengthen their operational performance, boost customer loyalty, and improve long-term business health. The training took place over two days and featured financial literacy lessons, bookkeeping guidance, customer management training, and staff development approaches.

The facilitator of the programme and Chief Executive Officer of Tom Associates, Temitope Jegede, explained that participants engaged in detailed discussions on balance sheets, cash flow statements, and profit-and-loss systems. He noted that they also worked through customer service practices, efficiency models, and team-building methods essential for running successful and resilient businesses.

Jegede highlighted the practical nature of the sessions, stating that the training was intentionally interactive, giving participants the chance to self-assess their operations and identify gaps. He added that the exposure to record-keeping systems, inventory monitoring techniques, and customer relationship building helped retailers understand the importance of structured business management.

Participants expressed excitement and gratitude, describing the programme as insightful and transformative. Many stated that the training opened their eyes to long-existing operational errors they had unknowingly repeated over the years. These included oversight in financial tracking, customer engagement, and product stock control.

One beneficiary, Awesu Ahmed, noted that the training helped him uncover gaps in his business and provided tools that could improve efficiency, such as inventory applications that would enhance monitoring. Another participant, Juliet Nwafor, said the record-keeping lessons would help her track daily transactions more accurately and support the growth of her retail business.

The event ended with the presentation of certificates to participants, marking what the company described as a symbol of its long-term commitment to strengthening the retail chain in Nigeria.

Nigerian Breweries Plc, a member of the HEINEKEN Group, was incorporated in 1946 and produced its first bottle of STAR lager beer in 1949. Today, it operates nine breweries and distributes 19 brands including Heineken, Maltina, Life, Amstel Malta, Gulder, Desperados, Fayrouz, and Legend across the country. The company has also received several awards in areas such as product quality, marketing, innovation, corporate responsibility, health and safety, and sustainability.

Ekiti emerges as leading model in TVET, attracts Ondo delegation

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Ekiti emerges as leading model in TVET, attracts Ondo delegation

Ekiti State has been recognised as a benchmark in the development of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for consistently showing effective practices and measurable progress in the sector. This recognition was reaffirmed during a learning tour by officials of the Ondo State Ministry of Education, led by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, who visited Ekiti to understudy its model in a bid to revamp technical education in Ondo State.

Prof. Ajibefun described Ekiti as a leading model in TVET, noting that both Ekiti and Lagos States were selected for benchmarking because of the strong improvements seen in their technical colleges. He explained that the tour was important to gather firsthand experience and insights that will help Ondo State redesign its technical education system to better meet modern industry needs. According to him, the visit has been productive and will inform key reforms planned for the sector.

Welcoming the delegation, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Olabimpe Aderiye, said the progress recorded in vocational education in Ekiti is a product of the commitment of the Governor Biodun Oyebanji administration to excellence, equity, efficiency, and continuous improvement in education. She stressed that it is wrong to regard conventional secondary schools as superior to technical colleges, explaining that vocational institutions offer an alternative pathway where students explore creativity, innovation, and hands-on skills that prepare them for direct entry into the workforce.

Dr. Aderiye added that vocational skills remain important in today’s economy, noting that even university graduates are encouraged to acquire skills during the NYSC scheme to improve their prospects. The Commissioner revealed that the Ekiti State Government is working towards affiliations with Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere (BOUESTI) and the State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti to ensure seamless progression for technical college graduates into higher institutions. She also expressed appreciation to development partners and philanthropists for their interventions, which she said have strengthened facilities and programmes across the state’s technical colleges.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Ekiti State Board for Technical Education, Hon. Kayode Babade, highlighted remarkable growth in the sector, stating that enrolment in technical colleges has risen to over 2,500 students statewide. He attributed the growth to government investment and sensitisation campaigns through town hall meetings, radio, and television programmes aimed at correcting long-standing misconceptions about technical education.

The study tour featured visits to selected technical colleges in Ekiti, where the Ondo State team interacted with administrators, instructors, and students to understand operational models, training techniques, and innovations driving the state’s TVET success.

LAMATA Denies Charging Schools for Excursion Approvals

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LAMATA Denies Charging Schools for Excursion Approvals

The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has issued a Caveat Emptor to the public, especially schools, educational institutions, and organized groups, warning against fraudulent demands for payments related to excursions on its transport facilities, including the LRMT Rail Services. In a statement, LAMATA said it does not charge any fees, levies, or administrative costs for processing or approving excursion requests. According to the authority, “Approvals for such visits are entirely free of charge.”

LAMATA explained that schools or organizations planning excursions must follow a simple procedure. They are required to submit an official request letter to the Managing Director, indicating the proposed date, time, route, and number of participants. The agency emphasized that a formal approval letter must be obtained from its management before the trip begins. It described the approval process as important for logistics planning and safety.

The agency warned that any request for payment beyond the regular Cowry Card fares used by normal commuters should be treated as fraudulent. “Members of the public are strongly advised to disregard such requests and avoid dealing with unauthorized persons,” the statement added.

LAMATA reaffirmed its commitment to safe and accessible transportation services across Lagos and urged the public to report suspicious activities or payment demands through its official customer service channels.

Wema Bank Offers 20% Cashback at Fashion Souk 2025

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Wema Bank Offers 20% Cashback at Fashion Souk 2025

Wema Bank has announced a 20% cashback offer for shoppers at Fashion Souk 2025 on all purchases made using Wema or ALAT debit cards. The two-day shopping event will be held on December 6 and 7 at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos, hosting fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands for visitors.

The bank said the initiative aims to give customers an enhanced shopping experience during the festive season. Speaking on the offer, Wema Bank MD/CEO, Moruf Oseni, stated, “Fashion Souk has become an important platform that connects creativity, commerce, and community. This December, we are rewarding our customers with 20% cashback on transactions made with Wema or ALAT debit cards, subject to eligibility criteria.”

Customers attending the event will also be able to open accounts on-site, fund them, and join spin-and-win activities where instant gifts and cash prizes will be available. Ayodele Olojede, Divisional Head of Retail and SME, highlighted the bank’s continued efforts to support business growth.

She said, “By offering cashback incentives and providing access to financial solutions on-site, we are helping SMEs increase sales, strengthen visibility, and scale with confidence.” Wema Bank noted that the partnership reinforces its drive to empower small businesses and improve customer shopping experiences.

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