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Benue Graduates 14,942 Women and Youth in 40 Skill Programmes

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Benue Graduates 14,942 Women and Youth in 40 Skill Programmes

The Benue government on Saturday graduated 14,942 women and youth who completed 40 different skills acquisition programmes in Makurdi Local Government Area. The large graduation event highlighted the state’s push to reduce unemployment and promote entrepreneurship among young people and women. The skills offered were grouped into seven major departments and included painting, cosmetology, Ankara design, organic fertiliser production, makeup artistry, shoemaking, catering, and several other practical trades.

Out of the total number of beneficiaries, 6,000 women and youth received their intensive two-week training at the Aper Aku Stadium before joining others from across the 23 local government areas for the official graduation ceremony. The programme aimed to give participants hands-on experience that would allow them to start small businesses or improve existing ones.

Speaking during the event, the group managing director of the Benue Investment and Property Company, Raymond Asemakaha, announced that the company, working with the state government, would establish a business fund to support small and medium enterprises. He explained that the plan is focused on helping young people and women who are ready to venture into entrepreneurship.

Mr Asemakaha said the goal is to empower the beneficiaries to turn their newly acquired skills into successful businesses that can contribute to the growth of Benue’s economy. He called on the state government to introduce business-friendly laws that would help young entrepreneurs access larger markets and strengthen SME development across the state. According to him, “We want to domesticate the start-up law that has been in existence. We want to bring it up so that our people will benefit from it to start up their businesses and explore.”

He added that, “We are working to domesticate the start-up loan; it has already been done at the federal level, and by next week, we will sign the law so that you will have the seed capital. One of the major problems we have in the state is that people don’t have seed capital, which is the major thing. When the law is established in the state, we should be able to give the start-up capital for our teeming youth.”

Mr Asemakaha also noted that the governor’s decision to invest in human capital was central to the programme. He said, “The governor has thought that the best thing to do is to invest in human capital; that’s why he has put the training together for us to reengineer and redirect the economy and train these persons, not just in the theoretical aspect but also the practical aspects.”

Emmanuel Iorbee, the principal senior assistant to the governor on protocol and wardrobe, who organised the skills acquisition programme, said he was instructed by Governor Hyacinth Alia to “go and make it happen.” He explained that, “So far, we have trained over 14,000 Benue women and youth with entrepreneurial skills. Today, we have about 6,000 women and youth trained in Makurdi LG alone, who we have come to graduate, and we see how we can empower them to go and have something to do.”

He added that the programme covered around 40 skills, including shoemaking, bag making, oil and spray perfume production, beverages, detergent making, soap making, and several other income-generating trades. According to him, “And what we are doing here today is that we are sharing with them the vision of the state governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia. The message we are giving them is, ‘Don’t be a youth on the street; be a youth with something doing’.”

Terver Gbenda, the senior special assistant to the governor on youth organisations and illegal levies, said his office sponsored the 6,000 women and youth who graduated in Makurdi. He stated that participants were selected through advertorials, online ads, and group announcements. Mr Gbenda said the programme had taken many women and youth off the streets and noted that many of them only needed small support to start their own businesses.

Chairman of the occasion and commissioner for finance, Michael Ogleba, assured the graduands of government support. He encouraged them to work hard through honest labour and reminded them that the skills they acquired would remain valuable for life. Representatives of the graduands thanked the governor, facilitators, and organisers for the opportunity given to them.

Benue indigenes can also apply for Benue BDIC Free Digital Skills Training for 23,000 youth.

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Governor Radda Launches Empowerment Programme in Kafur

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Governor Radda Launches Empowerment Programme in Kafur

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has restated his administration’s commitment to strengthening local governance and improving economic opportunities for rural communities across the state. He made the statement during the Statewide Engagement Tour at the Kafur Local Government Secretariat, where he described the latest empowerment rollout as a direct effort to boost development at the grassroots. Governor Radda said the initiative “reflects our resolve to uplift communities, deepen economic participation, and ensure that the dividends of democracy reach those who need them the most.”

The empowerment programme in Kafur was fully funded by the Chairman of Kafur Local Government, Hon. Surajo Bature. Governor Radda noted that the support from local governments is key to the success of his ongoing 34-LGA tour. He said, “Local governments are now taking full responsibility for development, and we will continue to support them to deliver meaningful impact at the grassroots.” He explained that the interventions were created to “support households, strengthen small businesses, and provide the resources our people need to build sustainable livelihoods.”

Governor Radda arrived in Kafur with commissioners, special advisers, and senior government officials as part of his wider engagement with sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and community security. The empowerment exercise included the distribution of 600 bags of cement, 25 motorcycles, 50 sewing machines, 4 motor vehicles, and 100 grinding machines. In addition to these items, Chairman Surajo Bature offered nearly ₦20 million in direct community support.

While speaking to beneficiaries, Governor Radda stated, “Every item distributed here today is an investment in the future of Kafur. This administration is committed to creating opportunities and supporting hardworking citizens.” He also met with traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents to better understand local needs. According to him, “Engagement like this helps us understand local needs and strengthen our response to development challenges.”

Governor Radda stressed that transparency and accountability remain central to his “Building Your Future” agenda. He said his administration is committed to ensuring that development is fair and that all communities benefit, noting, “We are committed to ensuring that development is equitable and that no community is left behind.”

Earlier, the Chairman of Kafur LGA, Hon. Surajo Bature, praised the Governor’s leadership. He said, “The autonomy granted to local governments by Governor Radda has changed the pace of development in Kafur. We can now execute projects that truly reflect the needs of our people.” He added that the empowerment programme is one of many steps taken to uplift youths, support women, and strengthen development. Hon. Bature said, “Kafur will continue to benefit from programmes that promote stability, productivity, and economic growth.”

Katsina Radda Promotes Investment Opportunities at G20 Summit

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Katsina Radda Promotes Investment Opportunities at G20 Summit

Governor Radda has showcased Katsina State’s growing investment potential at a strategic side event during the G20 Summit in South Africa, presenting the state as a rising destination for investors across northern Nigeria. Speaking at the session themed Nigeria’s G20 Aspirations: Driving Africa’s Sustainable Infrastructure for Industrialization: Investing in Nigeria Solid Minerals for Inclusive Growth and Green Transition, he highlighted the opportunities emerging across the northwest region, with Katsina positioned at the centre.

The governor explained that Katsina is making steady progress toward a modern and competitive economy, supported by stronger fibre infrastructure, digital reforms, better logistics, and what he described as a unified one-government approach that makes business operations easier. He said the state’s direction is intentional and aimed at attracting long-term investments. “Katsina State is building the foundations of a 21st-century economy. From digital infrastructure to policy stability, we are creating an environment where investors can thrive,” he stated.

Radda also pointed to the state’s rich mineral deposits, including lithium and other industrial minerals. He stressed that Katsina is committed to responsible extraction practices and value addition that aligns with Nigeria’s broader green-transition goals. “Our mineral wealth is not just for extraction—it’s for transformation. We are committed to value addition that creates jobs, drives industrialization, and supports sustainable development,” he added.

He described Katsina as a state driven by policy stability, an expanding technology ecosystem, improved security efforts, and a young population prepared for industrial and digital opportunities. He also outlined investment prospects in mineral processing, renewable energy, technology-enabled agriculture, and digital innovation available across ten states in the northwest.

Radda noted that as Nigeria strengthens its engagement with the G20, Katsina is ready with practical opportunities that support sustainable industrial growth and green development. “As Nigeria deepens its engagement with the G20, Katsina stands ready with real opportunities for sustainable industrialization and green development,” he declared.

Katsina Launches Sabuwa Grant Empowerment for 1500 Women

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Katsina Launches Sabuwa Grant Empowerment for 1500 Women

Governor Radda has flagged off a multi-million-naira Empowerment Programme in Sabuwa Local Government with a major focus on supporting 1,500 women who are set to receive financial grants to strengthen their micro and small-scale businesses. The initiative, launched during his Statewide Engagement Tour, aims to boost economic opportunities, improve education, and uplift rural communities across Katsina State.

The programme is fully funded by philanthropist Engr. Tasi’u Abubakar UK, who has been providing humanitarian support to families in Sabuwa. Speaking at the Sabuwa Local Government Secretariat, Governor Radda said the empowerment drive was created to “support pupils, women, and youths by providing essential learning materials, livelihood tools, and financial support aimed at reducing hardship, promoting self-reliance, and accelerating grassroots development.”

The Governor, accompanied by commissioners, special advisers, and senior government officials, highlighted the administration’s commitment to strengthening basic education, youth empowerment, agriculture, and rural enterprise development.

During the event, thousands of schoolchildren benefited from key educational materials. A total of 10,000 exercise books, 1,000 school uniforms, and 40 bicycles were distributed to pupils, especially those from vulnerable households who walk long distances to school. For youths seeking higher education, the programme provided 300 JAMB forms along with six weeks of intensive coaching to improve their admission chances.

Economic empowerment formed a central part of the day’s activities. Aside from the 1,500 women receiving capital grants, the programme also distributed 80 grinding machines, 10 maize-shelling machines, and 50 sewing machines to support micro-enterprises operated by women and youths. Five community associations also received financial assistance to strengthen their activities and community development projects.

Governor Radda described these interventions as part of the administration’s broader effort to promote economic inclusion, support rural livelihoods, and achieve sustainable development. He reaffirmed that education, empowerment, and community-driven initiatives remain key priorities under his government.

As part of the tour, the Governor commissioned the Sabuwa Local Government Agricultural Mechanization Centre and inspected the newly renovated Local Government Council Chambers. He also distributed motor vehicles and motorcycles to local government councillors, an intervention sponsored by the Chairman of Sabuwa Local Government, Hon. Sagir Tanimu.

During his engagements, Governor Radda met with traditional rulers, stakeholders, and residents to discuss community needs, assess ongoing government projects, and gather feedback to enhance service delivery under the Building Your Future agenda.

The activities in Sabuwa further reflected the administration’s focus on transparency, accountability, and fair development across all Local Government Areas. The Governor also emphasised that empowering rural communities remains central to driving long-term growth and social stability in the state.

In his remarks, Hon. Sagir Tanimu praised the Governor for granting full autonomy to local governments. He said the decision to allow direct allocations to LGAs has greatly strengthened grassroots governance. According to him, “The Governor’s decision to ensure direct allocations to Local Government Areas has empowered councils like ours to execute meaningful projects that improve the lives of our people. We will continue to prioritise education, youth and women empowerment, peace, and productivity in Sabuwa.”

The event was attended by Chief of Staff Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir, Principal Private Secretary Abdullahi Aliyu Turaji, former Katsina State Governor Sirajo Umar Damari, Senator Muntari Mohammed Dandutse representing Funtua Zone, Hon. Shehu Dalhatu Tafoki representing Faskari, Kankara, and Sabua Federal Constituency, Hon. Salisu Yusuf Majigiri representing Mashi/Dutsi, National Coordinator of AUDA-NEPAD Hon. Jabiru Salisu Jabiru, and members of the Katsina State Executive Council.

Katsina Governor Launches Multi-Million-Naira Empowerment Programme

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Katsina Governor Launches Multi-Million-Naira Empowerment Programme

Governor Radda today flagged off a multi-million-naira empowerment programme aimed at supporting vulnerable youths, men, and women across 11 political wards in Dandume Local Government Area of Katsina State. The event, which held at Government Day Secondary School, Dandume, underlined the administration’s renewed focus on community development, economic inclusion, and support for less privileged households.

The programme was organised under the leadership of Hon. Bishir Sabiu Gyazama, Executive Chairman of Dandume Local Government. He stated that the initiative was designed to reach vulnerable youths, women, community groups, and local structures in all wards. The intervention also forms part of Governor Radda’s wider engagements across Katsina, which aim to improve service delivery and promote sustainable growth in rural areas.

In his remarks, Governor Radda commended the Local Government Chairman for, in his words, “designing an empowerment initiative that touches every segment of society — youths, women, party structures, traditional institutions, and small enterprises — with the singular goal of reducing hardship, expanding livelihood opportunities, and strengthening community resilience.” He noted that his administration remains committed to creating opportunities that help vulnerable households achieve long-term stability.

Governor Radda arrived in Dandume with a delegation of commissioners, special advisers, and senior officials. The visit aligned with ongoing priorities in youth empowerment, education, rural enterprise support, and community development.

During the event, six motor vehicles were distributed to improve governance and community engagement efforts. A total of 62 motorcycles were also shared among APC LG Exco members who received 26 units, ward chairmen who received 11, ward governorship coordinators who received 4, village heads who received 11, and campaign coordinators who received 10. To boost security across rural communities, 105 solar streetlights were installed in the 11 political wards.

The empowerment extended to skills-acquisition tools and household support items. Beneficiaries received 110 sewing machines, 110 grinding machines, 110 Engine Taliya units, 110 bags of Evane Mai Buje, 130 bags of 25kg food items, 110 bags of suya beans, 110 additional food bags, and 110 units of cooking oil. Support was also extended to 220 micro-business operators, with 20 beneficiaries selected per ward. In addition, 100 youths received ₦100,000 each, while APC leaders across the LGA received further assistance.

Governor Radda noted that “these interventions mirror our administration’s principles of transparency, accountability, and equitable development,” adding that the goal is to build a future where every vulnerable household can access opportunities that support economic independence.

The Governor also met with traditional rulers, stakeholders, party members, and residents to assess community needs and evaluate the impact of government projects already executed in the area.

Hon. Bishir Sabiu Gyazama, in his remarks, thanked the Governor for his support and leadership. He explained that the empowerment programme complements the Governor’s vision for rural transformation, youth engagement, and grassroots development. The APC Chairman of Dandume Local Government also delivered a vote of thanks, reaffirming the continued support of party leaders for Governor Radda’s leadership.

The event was attended by senior government officials at both federal and state levels, political leaders, traditional rulers, and members of the Katsina State Executive Council.

Katsina Governor Flags Off Educational Materials Distribution in Bakori

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Katsina Governor Flags Off Educational Materials Distribution in Bakori

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has restated his administration’s commitment to improving education and empowering communities across all Local Government Areas in the state. During the Statewide Engagement Tour held at the Bakori Local Government Secretariat, he began the visit by flagging off the distribution of educational materials. The items included 5,000 exercise books and 100 school uniforms provided through the philanthropic support of the Engr. Abubakar Abdullahi Matazu Foundation operating in Bakori.

Governor Radda described the educational support effort as a vital step for the state. He said the programme represents “a vital investment in the future of our children and a testament to our commitment to building a knowledgeable and progressive society.” He explained that supplying learners with the right tools helps them stay focused in school and creates a pathway for long-term development.

The event in Bakori was championed and fully funded by the Chairman of Bakori Local Government, Hon. Musa Abubakar Barde, who led the empowerment initiative to support children and families across the community. Governor Radda commended the effort, noting that “providing schoolchildren with the right learning materials is one of the most direct ways to improve their educational outcomes. This type of empowerment strengthens the foundation of our future.”

The Governor attended the event with commissioners, special advisers, and senior officials as part of his ongoing interaction with communities on development areas such as education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and community security. Addressing beneficiaries, he stated that “every book and every uniform distributed today represents hope for a brighter future. Our administration will continue to expand opportunities and ensure that no child or community is left behind.”

Governor Radda also met with traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents, explaining that such meetings allow government to understand local needs and provide targeted solutions.

Earlier, Hon. Musa Abubakar Barde praised the Governor for granting full autonomy to local governments, saying the policy has allowed Bakori to initiate programmes that directly benefit its people. He said the educational support programme is “one of several empowerment efforts aimed at uplifting families, supporting children, and strengthening the educational backbone of Bakori.” He reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining similar interventions that promote learning, stability, and community advancement.

Katsina Governor Distributes ₦20,000 Cash Support to 360 Residents

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Katsina Governor Distributes ₦20,000 Cash Support to 360 Residents

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has launched a new phase of grassroots empowerment in Funtua, where 360 less-privileged men and women each received ₦20,000 alongside tools aimed at boosting small businesses and supporting vulnerable households. The event took place during the Statewide Engagement Tour held at the Funtua Local Government Secretariat.

Governor Radda said the initiative was part of his administration’s effort to deepen economic inclusion, strengthen local governance, and ensure that residents in all 34 Local Government Areas benefit from programmes that improve livelihoods. He explained that the intervention “demonstrated our commitment to ensuring that every community benefits from meaningful support that improves livelihoods and builds a stronger future.”

The empowerment programme in Funtua was fully funded by the Chairman of Funtua Local Government, Hon. Abdu Goya, who targeted hardworking residents and vulnerable groups across the area. The intervention featured the distribution of 55 grinding machines, 55 pumping irrigation machines, 16 Robaba units, 22 boxer motorcycles, 15 sewing machines, 3 motor vehicles, and ₦20,000 cash support for 360 beneficiaries.

Governor Radda praised the effort and stressed that such support helps expand economic activities at the community level. He stated that “every item distributed today is an opportunity for a household to grow, for a business to start, and for a family to build a dignified livelihood. This is the essence of our grassroots empowerment agenda.”

He arrived in Funtua with commissioners, special advisers, and senior government officials, engaging stakeholders across agriculture, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and community security. Addressing the beneficiaries, he added that “we remain committed to equitable development across all LGAs. No community will be left behind in our Building Your Future vision.”

The Governor also held strategic discussions with traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents to further understand local needs and strengthen service delivery across the zone.

Hon. Abdu Goya later commended Governor Radda for granting full autonomy to local councils, saying it enabled Funtua to implement projects and interventions that reflect the priorities of its people. He described the empowerment programme as “part of our ongoing efforts to support youths, women, small businesses, and vulnerable households toward stability and economic growth.”

He reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining similar interventions aimed at improving productivity and family well-being. The event was also attended by the Senator representing Funtua Zone, Sen. Muntari Mohammed Dandutse, along with other top government officials.

EU Renews Partnership with Enugu on Power and Schools

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EU Renews Partnership with Enugu on Power and Schools

The Enugu State Government and the European Union have renewed commitments to deepen cooperation across major sectors of the state’s economy, covering education, energy, infrastructure, and youth development. This followed a courtesy visit to Governor Peter Mbah at Government House, Enugu, by a high-powered EU delegation led by the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr Gautier Mignot. The visit was confirmed in a statement from the governor’s media office on Saturday. The delegation also included the Belgian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Pieter Leenknegt; the Portuguese Ambassador, Mr Paulos Martins dos Santos; and several other senior European diplomats.

During the meeting, Ambassador Mignot said the EU was ready to expand a partnership that aligns with the transformational policies introduced by the Mbah administration. He explained that their mission was aimed at strengthening areas of mutual interest that support long-term development goals. “The purpose of our visit is to meet you, pay our respects, and discuss how to strengthen the partnership between the European Union and Enugu State. We are very interested in areas where our projects meet your administration’s expectations and long-term vision,” he said.

Mignot outlined ongoing collaborations with the state, noting that Enugu remains one of the EU’s key beneficiary states in several sectors. He highlighted progress in the energy sector, particularly the Solar for Health project. Under this programme, Enugu will receive technical assistance and funding for 20 solar microgrids designed to power 20 primary healthcare centres and 124 small and medium-sized enterprises. He further mentioned the Small Hydro Power for Agro-industrial Sectors Project implemented by UNIDO, along with the Nigeria Energy Support Programme of GIZ, which provides electrification support, investment advisory services, and capacity building. “Three interconnected minigrids of up to 1 MW capacity will also be funded to electrify at least 1,000 beneficiaries,” he added.

On education, the EU envoy announced that Enugu had been selected as one of the beneficiary states under the Education and Youth Empowerment in Nigeria programme (EISS) implemented by UNESCO. According to him, the programme supports teacher training in Smart Green Schools and will run until June 2028. “Building resilience and capacity among teachers is central to our goals,” he said. Mignot also referenced the EU’s support for the Eastern Nigeria International Film Festival, describing it as an important platform for cultural and creative exchange. “The 2025 edition in Enugu provided training for aspiring filmmakers and awarded grants for short film projects. We value this growing partnership with the creative industry,” he noted.

Belgian Ambassador Pieter Leenknegt spoke on Belgium’s long-standing economic presence in Enugu, pointing to Emenite Limited, a joint venture with roots dating back to 1961. He explained that the company remains a key employer in the region. “Emenite has over 300 employees from this region. It remains a shining example of Belgian–Nigerian cooperation. We want to continue strengthening this relationship,” he said.

Portuguese Ambassador Paulos Martins dos Santos highlighted Portugal’s interest in Nigeria’s energy, agricultural, and infrastructure sectors. He explained that Portugal hopes to deepen partnerships that support the EU’s broader engagement with Nigeria. “The footprint of the European Union in this country is huge and multidimensional. Portugal looks forward to enhancing its contribution to this partnership, especially in areas that complement Enugu’s development plans,” he stressed.

Governor Mbah, in his remarks, praised the EU for aligning its programmes with the state’s development priorities. He explained that the government’s allocation of more than 33 per cent of its total budget to education is intentional and focused on securing the future. “I see a strong synergy between our vision in Enugu and the EU’s programmes across Africa. Our investment of over 33 per cent of our total budget in education is deliberate. If we fail to equip our children today, we will pay ten times more in the future,” he stated.

He used the meeting to invite EU member states to explore investment opportunities in the state’s aviation, natural gas, and energy sectors. Mbah said the government had launched Enugu Air, adding that the international wing of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport would soon be operational. “We encourage you to speak to your home carriers to begin to consider direct flights to Enugu,” he said.

The governor also highlighted efforts to expand gas infrastructure. “We are working with the Federal Government to expand the gas pipeline infrastructure. This will unlock enormous economic opportunities in the gas subsector. Enugu is open for business, and we will do everything necessary to ensure investments succeed,” he added.

The visit ended with both sides reaffirming a shared commitment to deeper cooperation aimed at accelerating development and improving living conditions across Enugu State.

FG Launches BIOFIN to Strengthen Nigeria’s Biodiversity Financing

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FG Launches BIOFIN to Strengthen Nigeria’s Biodiversity Financing

Nigeria has launched the Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN), marking a major step toward protecting the country’s forests, ecosystems, and natural resources that support livelihoods across different communities. The event, held in Abuja, brought together government officials, private sector players, civil society, and community representatives to push for stronger action in biodiversity conservation.

Speaking at the launch, the Director of Forestry at the Ministry of Environment, Mrs Halima Bawa-Bwari, said BIOFIN is designed to close the financing gap for biodiversity conservation and support sustainable forestry practices. She explained that the initiative will promote a balance between ecological protection and economic development while empowering communities to become real custodians of biodiversity. According to her, “The urgency to act has never been greater. The National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) provides us with a clear roadmap to conserve, sustainably use, and equitably share the benefits of biodiversity. BIOFIN complements this vision by mobilising innovative financing solutions, ensuring that our commitments are not only aspirational but achievable.”

Bawa-Bwari noted that Nigeria has shown consistent commitment to protecting biodiversity. She added that through the NBSAP, “The country has pledged to integrate biodiversity financing into national development planning, strengthen institutional frameworks, and mobilise both domestic and international resources.” She highlighted key achievements already taking shape, including increased budgetary allocations to forestry and conservation programmes, partnerships with development organisations to unlock new financing options, mainstreaming biodiversity into sectors like agriculture, energy, and infrastructure, and community-driven initiatives that allow local communities to benefit directly from conservation activities.

She urged all stakeholders to remain dedicated to the process. “Let us commit to innovative thinking, collaborative action, and unwavering dedication to safeguarding our forests and biodiversity for generations to come. Together, we can ensure that the Biodiversity Finance Initiative becomes a beacon of hope and a model of sustainability, aligned with Nigeria’s commitments under the NBSAP and our broader national development and Renewed Hope agenda,” she said.

Also speaking on the private sector role, representatives of a global organisation working to support nature-positive economies explained that their mission is to activate and accelerate the transition toward a world where nature is restored and protected. They noted that while many Nigerian businesses are paying more attention to sustainability, not all fully understand how their efforts connect to national plans. They added that stronger collaboration will help link private sector leadership with national biodiversity and climate priorities, turning global goals into national implementation.

They recalled that “In 2022, 196 countries made a historic commitment through the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), a global plan to halt and reverse nature loss by 2030. The government cannot achieve this alone. Businesses and financial institutions must play a central role in delivering the transition toward a nature-positive future. Through this partnership, the organisations will convene leading Nigerian companies and government representatives through a Business Advisory Group (BAG).”

Representing Natural Eco Capital, Rantiola Babatimehin reaffirmed the group’s commitment to supporting sustainability by helping public and private institutions build resilient and eco-conscious systems. She said, “As a member of the Capitals Coalition, we collaborate with governments, financial institutions, and investors to tackle issues around natural capital, climate change, low-carbon development, sustainable finance, and circular economy.”

The Director-General of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, Dr Joseph Onoja, stressed that biodiversity protection is a shared responsibility. “Every organisation and every individual involved in business should also play a role in safeguarding biodiversity. That is why we established the Business Advisory Group—so that together, we can develop a Business Action Plan for Biodiversity and identify practical steps to strengthen biodiversity conservation in Nigeria,” he said.

The Ministry’s Biodiversity Desk Officer, Sikeade Egbuwalo, explained that BIOFIN and the NBSAP can be properly financed by attracting more public and private investments, unlocking new revenue streams, and aligning economic incentives with conservation goals.

Reps Member Launches TVET Programme to Equip Lagos Girls With Skills

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Reps Member Launches TVET Programme to Equip Lagos Girls With Skills

The member representing the Ojo Federal Constituency of Lagos State in the House of Representatives, Seyi Sowunmi, on Saturday urged youths to acquire skills to become self-reliant and reduce poverty. He made the call during the flag-off of the Ojo Constituency Technical Vocational Education Training (TVET) programme, which is part of ongoing efforts to empower young people with practical skills.

The initiative is a continuation of the Ojo Girls in STEM 2.0 held in 2025 and focuses mainly on building the capacity of the girl child. The programme is designed to equip participants with hands-on skills for employment, entrepreneurship, and long-term self-reliance. It provides monthly stipends for six months during the training and also offers certificates, starter packs, and access to grants and business loans after graduation.

The training centre, located in the Era Ojo area, targets girls in public schools and offers courses in catering, tailoring, hairdressing, body massage, phone repairs, and computer/ICT skills. Many students, party loyalists, and community leaders attended the launch.

Speaking at the event, Mr Sowunmi described skill acquisition as an important tool for well-being. He urged youths to embrace the opportunity, saying it would help them contribute to family and community development. According to him, the ICT centre within the programme would help students stay updated with skills required for computer-based tests. He noted that CBT has become compulsory for examinations such as JAMB and SSCE. He added that with the right skills, young girls would avoid behaviours that could cut short their dreams early in life.

A facilitator of the programme, Amina Lawal, said the decision to focus on the girl child was deliberate because they remain the most vulnerable. She explained that girls aged 14 to 16 were more likely to make mistakes that could affect their future, adding that giving them skills at that stage would help them stay focused and stable.

One of the participants, Perpeture Emmanuel, an SS2 student of Iba Housing Estate Secondary School, said she had always loved make-up. She said she hoped the programme would help her learn the skill and pursue her goal of becoming a make-up artist.

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