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Tinubu empowers 250 Ondo persons with disabilities with N200,000 each

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Tinubu empowers 250 Ondo persons with disabilities with N200,000 each

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has empowered 250 persons living with disabilities in Ondo State with N200,000 each through the Renewed Hope Initiative empowerment programme. The event, held at the Ondo State Internal Revenue Service office, marked the commemoration of this year’s World Disability Day with the theme Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies For Advancing Progress.

The initiative is being replicated across the 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, as part of efforts to identify with the challenges faced by people living with disabilities, including disabled veterans from the military and police, to recapitalize their businesses and strengthen their economic resilience.

Senator Tinubu, represented by the First Lady of Ondo State and coordinator of the RHI in the State, Mrs Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, disclosed that nine thousand five hundred Persons with Disabilities nationwide will benefit from the programme, amounting to One Billion, Nine Hundred Million Naira.

She encouraged beneficiaries to make meaningful use of the support, saying, “Today, the Renewed Hope Initiative will provide the sum of two hundred thousand naira Business Recapitalization Grants to two hundred and fifty Persons with Disabilities in each State and the Federal Capital Territory to support small business owners to recapitalize their existing businesses and strengthen their means of livelihood.”

She added that no society grows without inclusion, recalling the words of Helen Keller, the American disability rights advocate, who said, Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. According to her, this reminds the nation that inclusive growth is only possible when everyone is given a fair chance and empowered to contribute their skills to collective development.

Highlighting the long-term plan, Mrs Aiyedatiwa stated, “In recognition of our shared responsibility to promote inclusion, the Governing Board of the Renewed Hope Initiative has resolved to make the Economic Empowerment Programme for Persons with Disabilities an annual event, to be held on December 3rd, in commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. I encourage you to make good use of this opportunity. Let it be a seed that grows into something greater; a business that sustains you and your family.”

Also speaking at the event, the Ondo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Seun Osamaye, congratulated the beneficiaries and described the day as special in the State’s history because 250 persons with disabilities would be going home with N200,000 each. She commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his continuous support towards persons with disabilities, noting that many residents in Ondo State can proudly say they are benefiting from the RHI due to the cordial relationship between the State and the Federal Government. She assured participants of more opportunities in the coming year.

The Chairman of the Joint Association of Persons Living with Disabilities, Mr Olusegun Abiodun, thanked Senator Tinubu and the State government for what he called timely intervention. He assured that the beneficiaries would use the funds judiciously to boost their businesses, adding that the support would go a long way in sustaining their livelihoods and improving their economic stability.

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Over 477,284 Kano Farmers Benefit from Crop Intervention Programme

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Over 477,284 Kano Farmers Benefit from Crop Intervention Programme

The Kano State Agro-Pastoral Development Project (KSADP) has announced that more than 477,284 smallholder farmers across the state’s 44 local government areas have benefited from its crop intervention programme executed by the Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA). The Project Coordinator, Abdulrasheed Kofar-Mata, disclosed this during a field tour in Kano, noting that the programme has contributed to agricultural transformation while improving food and nutrition security.

He said the intervention helped the project achieve its goal of improving the income and livelihood of the most vulnerable farmers in Kano. Kofar-Mata explained that the five-year initiative was funded by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the Lives and Livelihoods Fund (LLF), and the Kano State Government. According to him, the initiative was designed to reduce poverty and enhance food sufficiency among vulnerable households.

He stated that SAA, the technical partner implementing the crop component, had surpassed expectations through activities that boosted productivity, strengthened seed systems, reduced post-harvest losses, expanded market opportunities, and promoted climate-smart agriculture. Kofar-Mata noted that thousands of smallholder farmers across the state had seen significant increases in income due to the project’s interventions.

He added that the project made heavy investments in mechanisation, with more support underway. Items already delivered include 540 planters, 401 fertiliser applicators, 1,600 climate-smart pumps, 471 threshers, 210 hermetic drums and 7,500 PICS bags. Additional tools in the pipeline include 7,000 vegetable returnable crates, 1,000 mobile flour mills, three units of 10MT inert silos, 397 trained rice parboiling groups benefiting more than 1,000 women, 40 power tillers, 97 rice transplanters, 18 tractors and 20 combine harvesters.

Kofar-Mata also listed 40 tractor-driven threshers, 35 rice reapers, nine modular rice mills, 80 trained fabricators empowered, and 250 trained machine operators. He revealed further plans for mechanisation through state savings for mass deployment. These include 80 tractors, 80 trailers, 80 ploughs, 80 ridgers, 80 harrows, 28 combine harvesters, 1,900 solar pumps, 95 planters, 20 walk-behind transplanters, and 50 manual and 20 motorised transplanters.

Other items include 6,000 seedling trays, 25 boom sprayers, 120 rechargeable sprayers, 220 multi-crop threshers, 107 groundnut oil extractors, 60 combine seed drills, 43 combine seed drills with sprayers, 10 modular rice mills and 98 power tillers. He said the equipment would boost productivity, reduce manual labour and speed up the use of modern farming practices among smallholder farmers.

Kofar-Mata added that deploying solar pumps under the initiative would drastically reduce production costs for dry season farmers while increasing yields and profitability. Also speaking, State Project Coordinator Ibrahim Garba Muhammad described KSADP as a multi-faceted programme. He stated that the equipment displayed represented only a small portion of the intervention, noting that once deployed along with those stored in warehouses, mechanisation in the state would scale up further.

A beneficiary, Umar Hassan from Minjibir Local Government Area, praised the programme, saying the support would greatly improve his farming activities and productivity.

KEDA and Jaiz Bank launch affordable loans for Kogi entrepreneurs

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KEDA and Jaiz Bank launch affordable loans for Kogi entrepreneurs

The Kogi Enterprise Development Agency in partnership with Jaiz Bank, Lokoja, is preparing to roll out financial support to business owners across Kogi State, reaffirming its commitment to empowering entrepreneurs through expanded access to finance and stronger collaborations with financial institutions.

According to the Agency, the initiative aims to boost entrepreneurship and stimulate economic growth by providing accessible loan options to both registered and unregistered enterprises, aligning with the broader economic development agenda of the Kogi State Government.

The loan scheme comes with an attractive interest rate of 15 to 17 percent per annum, which is notably lower than rates offered by commercial banks. This makes it a major opportunity for business owners seeking affordable capital to expand and sustain their businesses.

KEDA explained that it recognizes the many challenges faced by small and medium-scale businesses, especially in accessing funds required to grow, and has adopted a proactive approach to reduce these barriers by fostering financing opportunities and building strategic partnerships.

As part of this effort, KEDA said it recently concluded a successful engagement with Jaiz Bank, resulting in a financing window designed specifically for entrepreneurs in the state. The partnership offers two loan categories. Category A provides between ₦100,000 and ₦500,000 and requires only a National Identification Number and Bank Verification Number. Category B offers between ₦1,000,000 and ₦5,000,000 and requires Corporate Affairs Commission registration, National Identification Number, and Bank Verification Number. The Agency noted that the loan facility attracts no processing fees and requires self guarantee.

KEDA urged interested business owners to visit its office at No. 26, Federal University Road, Lokoja, to meet the desk officer for guidance and processing. It added that the Agency will continue to consolidate the achievements of the State Government and strengthen support systems for entrepreneurs, with the goal of creating an enabling environment where businesses can thrive and contribute to economic development in Kogi State.

Delta Govt launches second TEP cycle to fund students’ business ideas

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Delta Govt launches second TEP cycle to fund students’ business ideas

The Delta State Government has approved the Second Cycle of the Tertiary Entrepreneurship Programme, TEP, aimed at empowering students across tertiary institutions with practical business skills and funding support. The Honourable Commissioner for Youth Development, Barr. Harry ThankGod Trakiriowei, confirmed the development during a sensitization meeting with students of the University of Delta, UNIDEL, Agbor, and Dennis Osadebe University, Awai.

He expressed appreciation to the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori, for sustaining youth-focused development initiatives through what he described as sustainable empowerment programmes.

The Commissioner stated that the Ministry of Youth Development is fully ready to commence immediate implementation of the new cycle, assuring students of a transparent and impactful process. According to him, structures, operational frameworks, and strategic partnerships have been strengthened to ensure the second cycle performs better than the previous one. Barr. Trakiriowei noted that the programme’s overall success depends on cooperation among institutions, partners, and the student community, urging students to make good use of the opportunity by participating and following all guidelines.

He announced that the online application portal for TEP will soon open and encouraged eligible students to get their business ideas and supporting documents ready for submission. The Commissioner explained that TEP targets students with exceptional and innovative entrepreneurship ideas but lack the financial capacity to commercialize their concepts. He expressed confidence in the creativity of Delta youths, noting that their ideas could lead to enterprises capable of driving economic growth.

To ensure fairness and orderliness, he outlined the selection criteria that will guide the process. These include being a registered student of a tertiary institution in Delta State, submitting a feasible and impactful business idea or skill-based proposal, and demonstrating innovation, originality, or social benefit in the proposed project. Applicants are also expected to complete the online form, upload relevant documents, and show readiness to undergo training, mentorship, and monitoring. Compliance with programme rules and timelines is also mandatory.

Barr. Trakiriowei thanked Governor Oborevwori for championing youth empowerment and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to helping young people turn creative ideas into viable ventures. “Together, let us work to build a future where no brilliant idea dies because of lack of funding,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Development, Dr Ngozi Mogbolu, advised eligible students to prepare their concepts and documents ahead of time for a smooth application process. She also appreciated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for approving the Second Cycle of the TEP programme, adding that the initiative will help produce as many entrepreneurs as possible.

The sensitization meeting was attended by university representatives, stakeholders in the youth development space, and members of the press, who were briefed on the programme’s goals and the anticipated impact on young innovators in Delta State.

Kwara Unit Joins Nigeria for Women Program Training in Ogun

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Kwara Unit Joins Nigeria for Women Program Training in Ogun

The Kwara State Project Coordinating Unit for the Nigeria For Women Program Scale Up Project has taken part in the ongoing Training of Trainers Workshop organised by the Federal Project Coordinating Unit in Ogun State.

In their opening remarks, the Task Team Lead, Mr Michael Ilesanmi, and the National Project Coordinator, Dr Hadiza Maina, represented by Dr Oyefunke Koleowo, said the project was designed to help women rise above social norms and cultural barriers. They noted that it aims to make women economically independent and stressed that “this is the first stand alone project targeting women alone.”

Giving an overview of the programme, they explained that the first phase covered only six states, but about 32 states are currently part of the initiative. They added that in the Scale Up phase, attention will focus on Health Insurance, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), Gender Based Violence, Nutrition, and Maternal and Child Care.

They also reiterated that the project is committed to strengthening Women Affinity Groups and other platforms that support women’s economic empowerment. According to them, it is equally working to expand economic opportunities for unbanked women, many of whom run micro or nano businesses.

Both speakers encouraged participants to use the workshop to understand the project better. They stated that the strategy and implementation approach of the Nigeria For Women Program Scale Up Project “differ from other programmes” and urged participants to pay attention to its unique features.

The State Project Coordinator, Hajia Medinat Idris, represented by the Head of Operations, Hajia Sadiq Ramat, praised the facilitators for their efforts. She commended them for their willingness to transfer the knowledge needed to fast track the project and achieve its Project Development Objectives.

Ogun unveils N20m DAYF business grant for 200 youth entrepreneurs

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Ogun unveils N20m DAYF business grant for 200 youth entrepreneurs

Ogun State Government has unveiled a N20 million Business Grànt initiative under the Dapo Abiodun Youth Forum known as DAYF. The programme is aimed at supporting young business owners across the state, especially those who are registered and affected by the ripple effects of subsidy removal. According to officials, the N20 million support will be shared among 200 beneficiaries alongside other empowerment materials to encourage youth enterprises across all 20 local government areas. It is also seen as an extension of the Ajosewani developmental focus of the Dapo Abiodun led administration.

Ahead of the 6th edition of the initiative, the Central Working Committee of DAYF led by the Convener and Special Assistant to the Governor on Sport, Aroboto Rasheed, visited the office of the Commissioner for Sport Development and Youth Affairs, Hon Wasiu Isiaka. During the visit, the committee discussed plans and expectations for the programme.

Addressing the youth present, the Commissioner commended DAYF’s effort and described it as a shift in youth engagement. In his words, “we are gradually moving from the era of exuberances in youth. From commercial thuggery to driving government’s policies and becoming important tools in reshaping progressive conversation.” He praised young people in Ogun for being resilient and using technology and digital innovation to add value, noting that such exposure helps reduce brain drain.

Hon Wasiu Isiaka said the grant would play a major role in encouraging others to develop workable ideas for economic development. Before unveiling the N20 million business grant, he urged the DAYF team to collaborate with other youth groups in the state. “Let’s learn to harness ideas and be inclusive in our movement. It is better to move together in Unity than to be divided by unnecessary rivalry. In unity lies progress. Dapo Abiodun led administration will always prioritise youth centre programmes devoid of issue and rancour,” he stated.

After the unveiling, Comrade Aroboto expressed confidence in the programme’s success. He assured the Commissioner that the team would focus on peace building and engaging all stakeholders. He also thanked Governor Dapo Abiodun and progressive supporters who have aligned with the forum.

FG Inspects Enugu Livestock Centres, Pledges Revival, Investment

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FG Inspects Enugu Livestock Centres, Pledges Revival, Investment

The federal government through the Honourable Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, on Wednesday, 3rd December 2025, concluded a detailed inspection tour of key livestock facilities in Enugu State, restating the Federal Government’s commitment to revive dormant assets and open fresh economic opportunities within the livestock sector.

During the visit, the Minister inspected the Okpuje Pig and Progeny Centre, a 26.2-hectare project with a 3,000-stock capacity, established 43 years ago but left unused for decades. Mukhtar praised the host community for protecting the centre despite years of abandonment. He assured that the facility, along with other neglected livestock investments in the state, will be brought back to life. According to him, plans are in motion to establish a modular abattoir that will process bacon for domestic markets and potentially for export.

The Executive Chairman of Nsukka Local Government Area, Hon. Engr. Jude Chinedu Asogwa, expressed appreciation for the Tinubu-led administration’s intervention. He noted that the initiative supports the State Government’s goal of growing agriculture into a major driver of economic prosperity for communities.

The Minister also visited the Adada Cattle Multiplication Centre, an 847-hectare facility that has remained idle for years. After an assessment of the site, including the Adada Dam, he said the Ministry now has a more practical understanding of what is needed to bring the centre into full operation. Describing the location as “a paradise yet to be discovered,” Mukhtar explained that the tour revealed huge untapped opportunities. He said the dam will be used to irrigate extensive pasture fields planned for development at the centre.

The Minister stressed the importance of practical engagement, saying, “We must come out to the field, discover the potential, and create the environment for private sector and public-private partnerships to work with us to change the narrative.”

In Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area, Chairman Barr. Chijioke Ezeugwu welcomed the visit and pledged total support for revitalising the centre, pointing out the long-term economic benefits for residents.

Mukhtar later visited Mary Agro Farms in Udi, an initiative of the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, and held talks with livestock stakeholders. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to fully harness the livestock sector in line with President Tinubu’s vision for non-oil sectors to meaningfully contribute to growth and national GDP.

Seplat Trains 49 Niger Delta Youths for Oil and Gas Jobs

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Seplat Trains 49 Niger Delta Youths for Oil and Gas Jobs

Seplat Energy Producing Nigeria Unlimited has stepped up its Corporate Social Responsibility in host communities as it empowered 49 youths from the Niger Delta with technical skills for careers in the oil and gas sector. The training was completed at the Technical Training Centre in Eket, Akwa Ibom state, where the passing out ceremony took place under the theme “From Roots to Results-Three Decades of Growth.”

Speaking at the event, the chief executive officer of SEPNU, Roger Brown, urged the newly trained youths to apply their skills in line with global industry standards. Brown, represented by the Chief Operating Officer, Ezeugwuorie, told the graduates that they were entering a competitive world, but noted that they had been adequately prepared to excel. “To our graduates, this moment belongs to you. You have earned it through dedication and discipline. You enter a world that is dynamic and competitive, but you are ready; equipped not only with technical expertise but with the mindset and values that define excellence. We believe in your potential, and we look forward to the value that you will create,” he said.

He described the ceremony as “a celebration of a journey that began thirty years ago, and has evolved into something exceptional,” noting that the theme reflected the growth path of the TTC. Founded three decades ago, the centre was set up with the aim of producing world-class indigenous technicians who could meaningfully contribute to Nigeria’s industrial and energy development.

“TTC was built on a bold belief,” Brown said. “A belief that developing local talent would strengthen operational excellence and shape the future of Nigeria’s energy landscape. Those were our roots — and today, the results speak for themselves.” The company highlighted that over 850 technicians have been trained since inception, with many now holding leadership positions across Nigeria and beyond.

Brown also pointed out TTC’s global recognition as the first City and Guilds Centre of Excellence, which he described as proof of its rigorous training and high standards. According to him, these achievements “are not just statistics—they represent transformed lives, strengthened communities, and a stronger Nigerian workforce.”

A major feature of the ceremony was the graduation of Apprentice Group 13, a group praised for its discipline, resilience, and commitment to standards. Another landmark recognised at the event was Seplat’s achievement of two million man-hours in offshore operations without any recordable incident. The CEO said this milestone reflected Seplat Energy’s commitment to safety, protecting lives, and ensuring workers return home safely.

In his welcome remarks, the general manager, JV Operations, John Itsueli, recalled the modest beginning of the centre. He stated that TTC started in a “small office at the Qua Iboe Terminal” but has now grown into a world renowned institution that stands as “the first City and Guilds Centre of Excellence globally.” He commended the trainers, assessors, administrators, and support teams whose efforts contributed to the centre’s development.

Meanwhile, Goodluck Enimedoukienoniso, the Best Graduating Student of Group 13, expressed appreciation to those who supported their training journey. He described his award as an honour, explaining that he was humbled because past graduates had set high standards that challenged him and his colleagues to perform well.

The passing out ceremony also marked three milestones for Seplat Energy: 30 years of the TTC, the graduation of Apprentice 13, and the celebration of two million man-hours without any incident. The company said these achievements underscored the impact of investing in people and building a competent local workforce. Officials stressed that the empowerment was also tied to its responsibility to host communities and its focus on human capital development.

For Seplat, the ceremony was more than a graduation as it highlighted decades of investment in technical capacity. It also renewed hope for young people seeking opportunities in the energy industry, especially as Nigeria pushes for greater participation of its citizens in the oil and gas space.

Nigeria LNG Shortlists Candidates for Online SHL Graduate Trainee Test

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Nigeria LNG Shortlists Candidates for Online SHL Graduate Trainee Test

Nigeria LNG Limited has notified a candidate that they have been shortlisted for the next stage of its Graduate Trainee recruitment process. In an email titled “Invitation to Ability Test,” the company wrote, “Thank you for applying for the Graduate Trainee position at Nigeria LNG Limited. We are pleased to inform you that you have been shortlisted for the next stage of our recruitment process (1st level assessment).”

According to the message, shortlisted applicants are expected to complete an Online Proctored SHL Test. The company stated that the assessment window will run from Monday 8 December 2025 to Monday 15 December 2025, noting that candidates may take the test at any time within this period.

The email also explained provisions for applicants living with disabilities. “A reasonable adjustment is a change made to remove or reduce a disadvantage related to a candidate’s disability during the recruitment process,” it said. Those who require support were directed to email ReasonableAdjustment.Disabilities@ning.com with the subject line “Reasonable Adjustment [Graduate Trainee] SHL Test,” including details and reasons for their request.

Nigeria LNG warned applicants about integrity, stressing strict compliance. “Providing false information or breaching test rules will result in disqualification,” the email added. Candidates were told to sit for the test independently, in a private space with no one else present. The company cautioned that attempting to copy, take screenshots, or share test content violates confidentiality as the process moves forward for shortlisted applicants.

NEYIF supports 900 Yunusari farmers with improved seeds and training

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NEYIF supports 900 Yunusari farmers with improved seeds and training

North East Youth Initiative For Development has reported major gains from its first phase agricultural intervention in Yunusari, supported by the U.S. Department of State. The project reached five political wards through the creation of five Farmer Field Schools, directly engaging local farmers affected by conflict.

According to NEYIF, a total of 900 farmers benefited from the programme. These include internally displaced persons, returnees, and host community members who received different varieties of improved seeds. The intervention distributed 7,000 kg of cowpea, 2,800 kg of sorghum, 2,800 kg of millet, 300 kg of sesame, 60 kg of okra, and 40 kg of amaranthus.

The organisation highlighted that the initiative aims to improve food security and general well-being in the area. “With the support of the U.S. Department of State, we are improving the agricultural yield of these conflict affected farmers that comprise IDPs, returnees, and host community members there by improving their food security and overall well-being,” the group stated.

Community voices also reflected on the impact of the project. From their recollection, the bumper harvest achieved through Farmer Field Schools and improved seed distribution was described as significant. They noted that it was “something to write home about.”

Observers in Yunusari say the intervention has been a notable boost for agriculture and livelihoods. Many describe it as a complete game changer for farmers across Yunusari Local Government and nearby communities, as beneficiaries now record better yields and increased confidence in their farming activities.

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