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FG Launches Device Credit Programme for Over 15000 Workers

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FG Launches Device Credit Programme for Over 15000 Workers

The Federal Government has launched a national digital device credit programme aimed at making smartphones, laptops, and other essential digital tools more affordable for working Nigerians. The initiative, driven by the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), was formally announced on Tuesday with a focus on expanding digital access across the workforce. According to the statement, the rollout follows the success of a pilot phase that enabled over 1,000 Nigerians to access smartphones through affordable credit.

In this new phase, CREDICORP said it is scaling the programme to reach more than 15,000 working Nigerians who will be able to access smartphones, laptops, and other digital devices.

The corporation explained that this move is in line with efforts to strengthen digital inclusion and productivity. It noted that to deliver the initiative at scale, it is collaborating with one of its Participating Financial Institutions, E-Finance Company, while receiving technology support from Credlock.

Reflecting on the launch, CREDICORP’s Managing Director, Uzoma Nwagba, described the expansion as a natural progression of its work. He explained that the initiative aligns with the government’s agenda to build a modern workforce where access to essential tools fuels growth and innovation.

According to him, access to digital tools should not be a luxury for Nigerian workers, adding that the programme aims to remove long-standing financial barriers that prevent many from owning devices important for work and learning.

“From mobility to renewable energy, we have witnessed the profound impact that access to credit can have on people’s daily lives,” he said. “Nigerians are ambitious and hardworking; they simply need fair pathways to acquire the tools that move them forward. Digital devices now sit at the centre of learning, earning, and productivity, and expanding access to them is a critical step in building a more digitally ready nation.”

Credlock’s CEO, Dayo Fabayo, also highlighted the importance of the initiative, saying: “Every smartphone represents potential to learn, to work, to access opportunity, and to live with dignity. At Credlock, we believe the device in someone’s hand can be the bridge to their financial future. Working with CREDICORP and E-Finance allows us to scale that vision to millions of Nigerians.”

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Reps Probes Missing N30bn NSIPA Funds, N-Power Delays

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Reps Probes Missing N30bn NSIPA Funds, N-Power Delays

The House of Representatives on Tuesday moved to investigate the status of the over N30bn recovered from the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) between 2024 and 2025. The goal is to uncover delays affecting the restart of major social intervention schemes, including N-Power, which millions of Nigerians depend on.

This decision came after lawmakers adopted a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Saidu Abdullahi, who represents Bida/Gbako/Katcha Federal Constituency in Niger State. NSIPA is the agency responsible for key Federal Government social programmes such as N-Power, Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP), Home-Grown School Feeding Programme, and the Grant for Vulnerable Groups/Conditional Cash Transfer. These schemes aim to reduce poverty, increase school enrolment, support financial inclusion, and help small businesses stay afloat.

President Bola Tinubu had suspended NSIPA operations on January 8, 2024, for six weeks to allow security and anti-corruption agencies investigate alleged financial mismanagement within the scheme. Moving his motion, Abdullahi explained that “The investigation resulted in the tracing, freezing, and recovery of substantial public funds belonging to the Agency from Deposit Money Banks and Payment Service Providers, including funds appropriated for TraderMoni, MarketMoni, FarmerMoni, and Grants for Vulnerable Groups.”

However, he warned that the real issue now is the delay in returning these funds to the right account. He said, “credible sources have indicated that these recovered funds, estimated at over ₦30bn, have not been remitted into NSIPA’s designated Treasury Single Account, thereby stalling programme implementation and leaving millions of intended beneficiaries without the social and economic support envisioned by the Federal Government.”

Abdullahi stressed that withholding the funds is slowing down efforts by the present administration to ease hardship, saying, “We are deeply concerned that the prolonged non-release of these funds undermines the Renewed Hope Agenda by slowing down poverty alleviation efforts, weakening small-scale enterprises, exacerbating hardship in rural and urban communities, delaying local economic stimulation, and eroding public trust in the government’s social protection commitments.”

He also raised concerns over accountability for the recovered money, noting, “We are also concerned that the continued uncertainty over the exact location, custodial status, and administrative handling of the recovered funds poses fiscal risks, disrupts programme timelines, and may create institutional bottlenecks across related national social intervention initiatives.”

Abdullahi added that NSIPA has still not returned to full activity despite the lifting of its suspension early this year. He stated, “We are disturbed that despite the presidential approval lifting the suspension on NSIPA operations… the Agency has been unable to resume full implementation of its programmes, allegedly due to the non-availability of recovered funds expected to have been released, thereby exposing millions of Nigerians to prolonged socioeconomic distress.”

The Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, presided over the sitting, put the motion to a voice vote, and it was unanimously approved.

Following the approval, the House agreed to set up an ad hoc committee to investigate all recoveries made during the 2024 to 2025 probe. The committee will “determine their current status and custodianship, and identify any issues delaying their release to the appropriate agencies.” It will also meet with relevant bodies and demand a clear plan from NSIPA on how the funds will be used once they are released. The House expects the committee to report back within four weeks.

In July 2025, the Senate also confirmed that the Federal Government was preparing to clear the N81bn backlog owed to N-Power beneficiaries for 2022 and 2023. The confirmation followed a closed-door meeting led by the Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin.

A recent development involved the N-Power court case filed by former beneficiaries over unpaid stipends. The matter was scheduled for hearing on November 4, 2025, at the National Industrial Court in Abuja. Claims spread that judges travelled to Kenya, leading to a postponement until December 1st, but this has not been officially verified. According to the court notice, the case filed by Anaidu Shehu and others against the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and others remains listed for mention.

Meanwhile, the National Association of N-Power Beneficiaries has continued to appeal for the payment of delayed stipends. The group described the situation as a growing burden on young Nigerians who rely on the support promised under the programme.

Flow with Confidence Pad Distribution Kicks Off in Plateau State

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Flow with Confidence Pad Distribution Kicks Off in Plateau State

The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has launched the Renewed Hope Initiative, Flow with Confidence program at the national level, with Plateau State joining other states in the rollout. The program aims to support school girls with menstrual hygiene supplies and education so they do not miss school because of their monthly cycle.

Speaking at the launch in Plateau State, the First Lady of the state and State Coordinator of RHI, Barr. Helen Ingbo Mutfwang, said that in today’s world no girl should miss school because she cannot afford sanitary products. She noted that it is unacceptable that many girls continue to face challenges during menstruation, especially those in rural areas who miss several school days each month because they lack sanitary pads.

Barr. Mutfwang described the Renewed Hope Initiative, Flow with Confidence, as a vital menstrual health intervention designed to empower school girls by promoting knowledge, dignity and confidence through improved menstrual hygiene. According to her, under the education framework of the initiative, disposables sanitary pads will be distributed to 370,000 school girls in rural communities across the country. She explained that each state, including Plateau, will receive 10,000 packs, saying this support is targeted at girls in rural communities and those who cannot afford sanitary products.

During the ceremony, she announced that she would be handing over 10,000 packs of disposable sanitary pads for distribution to 10,000 girls in rural areas across Plateau State, adding that each beneficiary will receive one year supply. The governor’s wife also highlighted that disposable sanitary pads offer a simple hygiene option that contributes to mental health and the reproductive well-being of women. She emphasized that RHI promotes the idea that no girl should ever have to choose between her dignity and her education.

She called on chairmen of the seventeen local government areas to ensure that the supplies get directly to deserving girls in the rural communities. Barr. Mutfwang disclosed that the total cost of the customized disposable pads is two billion five hundred and fifty million, two hundred and ninety-seven thousand, one hundred and fifty naira. She explained that the pads were produced by a local manufacturing company, Unique Glory Nigeria Limited, based in Ikorodu, Lagos State. She encouraged cooperative organizations, parastatals, agencies, and public-spirited Nigerians to key into the program and empower more girls.

The governor’s wife also appealed to traditional, religious and community leaders to support the initiative by monitoring distribution within their communities. She urged everyone to commit to the dignity and well-being of every Nigerian girl so the country can build a future where girls have the support they need to live, learn, strive and, as she put it, “Flow with Confidence.”

Earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Caroline Panglang Dafur, described the flag-off of sanitary pad distribution across Plateau State as a significant milestone in the effort to improve menstrual health for women and girls. Dafur said the initiative recognizes the challenges girls face and reflects a shared commitment to solving them. She said the beneficiaries are future leaders, innovators and change makers who must hold their heads high, flow with pride and confidence because they deserve every opportunity to succeed.

The Commissioner expressed gratitude to the First Lady of Nigeria and National Coordinator of RHI, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her dedication to empowering women and girls. She praised the First Lady’s leadership and impact, saying the program is a testament to her commitment. Dafur also acknowledged the First Lady of Plateau State, Barr. Helen Mutfwang, for her passion towards the welfare of women and girls, noting that her guidance and leadership were key to making the initiative a reality.

She described the event as more than just distribution of sanitary pads, but a symbol of hope, dignity, and empowerment for women and girls. The event featured spoken word presentations by students, short clips on menstrual hygiene, and the official launch and distribution of sanitary pads by Barr. Helen Mutfwang to students at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos.

Adamawa DG Urges Youths To Embrace Entrepreneurship

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Adamawa DG Urges Youths To Embrace Entrepreneurship

The Director General of the Poverty Alleviation and Wealth Creation Agency, Dr. Michael Zira, has urged youths in Adamawa State to embrace enterprise and take advantage of available opportunities. He said the government has deliberately prioritized economic empowerment initiatives aimed at strengthening small businesses and improving livelihoods across the state.

Dr. Zira made this known when he received members of the Youth for Youth Movement, a non partisan interest group promoting youth development, who presented him with an award of recognition. In his remarks, he highlighted the commitment of the Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri led administration toward supporting young entrepreneurs and boosting grassroots economic growth.

He disclosed that within the last one year, the state government, through the Fintiri Business Wallet Cash Transfer initiative, has empowered over one hundred small scale businesses with ₦50,000 each to support micro and nano enterprises. According to him, young people must rise to become active players in the economy.

Dr. Zira also appealed to the group to sensitize youths and women to participate in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration, noting that meaningful representation is only possible when citizens elect credible leaders. Earlier, Chairman of the Youth for Youth Movement, Suleiman Kamale, said the group visited PAWECA to recognize the achievements of Dr. Zira and appreciated Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for the confidence reposed in the DG, which has resulted in impactful programs for the people of Adamawa State.

NYSC Sets December 18 Passing Out Date for 2024 Batch C Stream 2

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NYSC Sets December 18 Passing Out Date for 2024 Batch C Stream 2

The Management of National Youth Service Corps has approved Thursday, December 18, 2025 as the passing out date for the 2024 Batch C Stream II Corps Members. According to NYSC, the low key event will include the distribution of Certificates of National Service to deserving Corps Members across all Local Government Areas in the country.

Activities ahead of the day include Job Advisory and Counselling by NYSC and relevant agencies, as well as the signing of final clearance forms by Zonal Inspectors.

The NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, wished Corps Members a successful winding up, urging them to “allow the core values of the Scheme guide them in their post service relationships as good ambassadors of NYSC.”

FG Begins Payment of N22,500 Monthly Stipend to TVET Trainees

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FG Begins Payment of N22,500 Monthly Stipend to TVET Trainees

The federal government has commenced payment of N22,500 monthly stipend for the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme to trainees. Approved and registered trainees who started participating at their training centres with a good attendance record are now receiving credit alerts of N22,500.

The payment of the monthly TVET stipend to trainees began on December 2, as gathered by Nigeria Startup News. Many eligible trainees have confirmed that they have been paid, with social media, especially Facebook, being flooded with posts like “TVET N22,500 Stipend has started dropping. Check your SMS and account balance.”

This massive disbursement of TVET stipends is going to trainees who have completed their documentation, physical verification and have been participating at their various training centres.

This development comes after House of Representatives member for Ojo Federal Constituency, Seyi Sowunmi, warned that the failure of prompt payment of the monthly stipend had already resulted in declining attendance in some centres. According to him, “We cannot expect commitment from trainees when the system has not honoured its commitments to them.”

The sufficiency of the N22,500 TVET stipend is also becoming a concern as many trainees enrolled in the programme depend on the money to fund transportation to their training centres. Those who travel longer distances may not have enough left for other expenses after covering transport costs.

TVET applicants who still see “Pending” on their dashboard are not eligible for this stipend. Such applicants are advised to continue checking their dashboard until their status changes to Approved.

Ebonyi Government, NDE To Create 3000 Jobs for Youth

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Ebonyi Government, NDE To Create 3000 Jobs for Youth

The Ebonyi State Government in partnership with the National Directorate of Employment NDE has restated its commitment to reducing unemployment among Nigerian youths, with a special focus on young people in the state. This assurance was made by the Special Assistant to the Ebonyi State Governor on Commerce and Industry, Laurretta Igwe-Nome, during her courtesy visit to the NDE State Coordinator, Mrs Stella Chukwuekezie, at the NDE State Secretariat opposite Unity Square in Abakaliki.

Igwe-Nome described NDE as a vital institution providing jobs for youths in today’s society. She explained that her goal is to support government efforts through strategic collaboration. “My target is create over 3000 Job opportunities for Ebonyi Youths at first phase, to complement what the Governor of Ebonyi State is doing in my own little way. Yes Governor cannot help everyone, hence my partnership with NDE to make our Youths self reliance and become employers of labour,” she said.

She expressed happiness over the positive impact NDE has made in job creation through skill acquisition programmes and noted that the agency has remained a success story in the state. According to her, the contributions of NDE have opened employment opportunities for many young people in Ebonyi.

On her part, NDE State Coordinator Mrs Stella Chukwuekezie described the visit as a welcome development, adding that she will support the Special Assistant in achieving her plans for Ebonyi youths. Chukwuekezie also called on other well to do individuals in society to emulate Igwe-Nome’s commitment and invest in empowering young people for a better future.

Edo Government Distributes Clean Stoves and Grants to Women Beneficiaries

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Edo Government Distributes Clean Stoves and Grants to Women Beneficiaries

The Edo State Government, through the Office of the First Lady, has fulfilled its commitment to empower women in the North Senatorial District with clean stoves, pots, and cash grants for charcoal, extending similar support earlier provided in the Central and South districts of the State. The latest phase of the programme took place at the Etsako West Council Hall in Auchi, drawing beneficiaries, government officials, and community leaders who highlighted the importance of the intervention.

Speaking at the event, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, stressed that empowering women remains central to her vision, noting that when one woman succeeds, she can influence others positively. She also announced that more initiatives are underway, including the distribution of educational tablets for children within the Senatorial District to improve learning outcomes. According to her, such empowerment goes beyond materials, as it opens avenues for growth, safety, and community wellbeing.

Mrs. Anani expressed gratitude to partners who contributed to the project’s success, especially the State Ministry of Science and Technology. She said, “I’m delighted to welcome all of you to this important ceremony, marking the distribution of the free climate-friendly stoves to our adorable women of Edo North Senatorial District. Edo Central women received clean stoves on 22nd October, 2025. Edo South women also received theirs November, 2025.” She explained that the initiative is a joint effort between BeLiEF and Care, her pet project, alongside the ministry, aimed at promoting clean energy and helping communities reduce environmental degradation.

She added that addressing access to clean and efficient cooking tools not only promotes healthier households but also empowers women who manage daily energy needs. According to her, “This initiative is a collaboration between BeLiEF and Care, which is my pet project, and the Ministry of Science and Technology. It stands as a clear testament to our shared commitment to tackling the pressing challenge of clean energy and environmental degradation. By providing access to clean and efficient cooking technologies, we’re not only improving the health and well-being of our people, but also empowering women who are often at the forefront of managing household energy needs.”

Mrs. Anani commended Governor Monday Okpebholo’s leadership, describing his administration as one that prioritizes empowerment, sustainability, and the environment. She noted, “His Excellency, Distinguished Sen. Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State, is a passionate and visionary leader, deeply committed to the well-being of every citizen. His empowerment initiatives are deliberately targeted at the most vulnerable members of our society, equipping them with tools and resources they need to improve their lives.” She added that the clean stoves are part of efforts to reduce carbon footprints, fight climate change, and support a resilient, self-sustaining society. She encouraged the women to use their stoves effectively to improve their families’ wellbeing and safeguard their environment.

The Chairperson of Etsako West Local Government Council, Mrs. Okwilague Sikirat Shinny, thanked the Office of the First Lady and Governor Okpebholo for the initiative, stressing that many homes and businesses would benefit. According to her, “We deeply appreciate Her Excellency for championing initiative that uplifts women and promotes safer, cleaner and more efficient cooking tools for our homes and businesses.” She explained that the materials will ease daily stress, boost health, and support women’s economic prospects. She also thanked the Ministry of Science and Technology for its role and urged beneficiaries to make the most of the items provided.

Several beneficiaries, including Selfiya Alhassan, Abdumalik Aisha, and Love Ogedegbe, shared their appreciation, explaining how they had previously battled with firewood cooking and its health impacts. They thanked Mrs. Anani and the State Government for the support, promising to use the stoves and pots productively while pledging continued backing for the administration.

Governor Eno Guarantees Christmas Welfare For Akwa Ibom Residents

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Governor Eno Guarantees Christmas Welfare For Akwa Ibom Residents

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has assured citizens, residents, and visitors that the State will provide opportunities through different activities and initiatives for everyone to participate in and enjoy the upcoming Christmas celebrations. Speaking at the December Covenant Service held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Uyo, he encouraged people to stay away from trouble, worry less, and get ready for divine visitation, noting that his administration has concluded plans to reach out to everyone with what he described as “good tidings.”

The Governor reaffirmed that workers will receive their 13th month salary, widely known as Eno-mber, before December 20. He further announced that there will be a “home going” on December 20 during which all political officeholders will contribute towards bags of rice that will be sent to villages across the State by the government. He emphasized that these bags of rice will be distributed to all households through their village authorities.

Governor Eno reiterated his commitment to the welfare of the people and said Akwa Ibom will continue to live in peace and unity without intimidation or molestation. He explained that the ban on masquerades on the streets of the State is an executive order that has been signed and warned that anyone caught violating it will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.

The Governor, who is also a pastor, thanked God for His blessings on the State since the beginning of the year. He appreciated everyone who attended the covenant service and prayed for more blessings on the State and its citizens in the coming year.

Ministering on the theme “Divine Visitation,” drawn from 1 Samuel 2:21, the Senior Pastor of Daylight International Ministries, Lagos, Rev. Joseph Akanya, advised Christians to stay faithful and obedient in order to continually enjoy divine visitation. The service featured choir ministration, praises, worship, and a thanksgiving session to God for His protection and blessings throughout the year.

Akwa Ibom Says New Tax Law Will Reduce Burden in 2026

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Akwa Ibom Says New Tax Law Will Reduce Burden in 2026

Akwa Ibom residents have been assured that the new tax laws coming into effect from January 1, 2026, will ease the financial burden on low-income earners while improving Nigeria’s overall tax system. The assurance was given by the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS) during an engagement session with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, and media organisations in Uyo.

Executive Chairman of AKIRS, Sir Okon Okon, said the state government is introducing four new tax laws aimed at simplifying tax practices, reducing loopholes, and lifting pressure off small businesses. Presenting on the theme “Tax Reform: Synopsis of the Implications”, he explained that the Nigeria Tax Act, Nigeria Tax Administration Act, Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Act will work together to offer a seamless experience for Nigerian taxpayers.

Sir Okon stated that these reforms specifically target low-income earners who have been exposed to multiple taxation over the years. According to him, the laws are not created to burden citizens but to create a fairer, friendlier system capable of supporting business growth and financial inclusion.

He also revealed that beginning January 1, 2026, all Nigerians will be required to acquire a Tax Identification Number (Tax ID) in addition to their National Identification Number (NIN). While concerns have circulated about the purpose of the Tax ID, Sir Okon dismissed fears that it is intended to monitor personal transactions or restrict financial freedom.

“The Tax ID will be automatically generated for every Nigerian with a valid National Identification Number (NIN). Section 8(2) of the Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA) 2025 does not mean citizens’ bank accounts will be blocked on January 1, 2026,” he clarified. “It simply requires taxpayers to provide a Tax ID when seeking financial services.”

The AKIRS Chairman noted that over 50 exemptions and reliefs have been inserted in the new regime to help both individuals and businesses. Agriculture-based enterprises including crop and livestock production will enjoy a five-year tax holiday, alongside other important benefits targeted at boosting economic activities.

Sir Okon urged journalists and media houses to collaborate with AKIRS to sensitise citizens and provide accurate information about the reforms. He said proper awareness remains essential to correcting wrong assumptions and ensuring that residents understand how the new system works and how it benefits them.

Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, praised the briefing, saying it equips journalists with the knowledge needed to educate the public. He highlighted that media enlightenment will help dispel misconceptions and reassure people, especially low-income groups, that the changes aim to support their financial wellbeing.

Also speaking, Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Emem Bob, stressed that the reforms were designed to unify Nigeria’s fragmented tax structure, which had previously strained businesses. He commended AKIRS for leading awareness initiatives and expressed confidence that the campaign will guarantee accurate, timely information for the masses. Mr. Bob pledged the Ministry’s continued partnership in promoting understanding of the tax reforms across Akwa Ibom and beyond.

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