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NADDC Empowers Youth in Automotive Innovation

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NADDC Empowers Youth in Automotive Innovation

The push to empower young Nigerians through automotive innovation took center stage on 26th November 2025 at the Ibadan Civic Centre, where the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) and the Office of the Special Assistant to the President on Youth Initiatives (Monitoring and Delivery) held a Youth Conference themed Driving the Future: Empowering Nigerian Youth Through Automotive Innovation. The event marked a significant moment in Nigeria’s plan to prepare its youth for new opportunities in mobility technology and the wider automotive value chain.

Speaking at the conference, the NADDC Director General, Otunba Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, said he was pleased to celebrate and empower young Nigerians who continue to shape the direction of technology and industry. He explained that youth are increasingly becoming the drivers of transformation in automotive engineering, ICT, and advanced mobility systems. Osanipin noted that modern vehicles now integrate engineering with ICT, and that Electric Vehicles (EVs) are more technology-driven than the traditional automobiles many people are used to.

He stated that across Nigeria and Africa, young innovators are already redefining mobility, supporting industrial development, and helping the shift toward electrification, digitalization, and sustainability. Osanipin stressed that the automotive value chain is large enough to accommodate various professions, especially with the rise of new energy vehicles powered by ICT and artificial intelligence. He added that Nigerian youth, known for their creativity and strong tech skills, must be strategically supported to channel their abilities into national mobility innovations.

The Special Assistant to the President on Youth Initiatives (Monitoring and Delivery), Hon. Dr. Titilope Gbadamosi, described the program as part of a national mission aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to unlock youth potential and speed up development in Nigeria’s automotive industry. She highlighted ongoing Federal Government investments in mobility technology, clean energy transition, digital innovation, and advanced manufacturing.

Gbadamosi said the conference was designed to open opportunities for young Nigerians interested in CNG adoption, electric mobility, automotive mechatronics, vehicle design, and new global transportation systems. She encouraged participants by saying, “Let us seize the opportunities that this conference offers, together, we have begun driving the future of Nigeria and the future of Africa. We are confidently shaping the future as creators, innovators, and global competitors in the automotive industry.”

The event received strong private sector support, showing the industry’s confidence in youth-led automotive innovation. The Chief Executive Officer of Weeldrop Logistics Limited, Wale Oladiti, offered automatic employment to six outstanding trainees. The MD of Lanre Shittu Motors, Mr. Taiwo Shittu, awarded ₦1 million each to six top performers. The Chairman of Nord Motors, Mr. Tobi Ajayi, also gifted ₦1 million each to five exceptional participants.

The NADDC and the Office of the Special Assistant to the President on Youth Initiatives reaffirmed their dedication to empowering young Nigerians as central players in building a modern automotive industry. They stated that through collaboration, innovation, and skill development, Nigeria is preparing a workforce capable of creating jobs, boosting the economy, and shaping the future of mobility across the continent.

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Katsina Unveils ₦4.7bn Fibre Network and Solar Power Project

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Katsina Unveils ₦4.7bn Fibre Network and Solar Power Project

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has commissioned the newly completed Katsina Metropolitan Area Fibre Network and the Independent Solar Power Plant, describing both projects as major steps that will accelerate technology adoption, expand digital access, and open new opportunities for young people across the State. The event, held at the Katdict center shortly after the InvestKatsina Economic Summit, was presented as one of the administration’s boldest moves toward building a modern digital economy. Governor Radda said the commissioning represents another decisive effort to digitise governance in Katsina, stating that “Digital is the way forward, and Katsina will not be left behind.”

From the beginning of the ceremony, the Governor emphasized that the fibre network will expand access to fast and reliable internet, allowing young men and women to take advantage of technology for education, entrepreneurship, remote work, and digital inclusion. He explained that the global economy now depends heavily on information technology, and Katsina’s younger population must be prepared to compete. According to him, this infrastructure is not just a project but a foundation for long-term digital strength.

Governor Radda explained that the achievements were made possible through a key policy decision: the waiver of Right of Way charges. This single move attracted over ₦4 billion worth of fibre-optic infrastructure covering 25 kilometres across the Katsina metropolis. He said the policy was designed to encourage investors while prioritising long-term digital prosperity over short-term revenue. He stressed that northern Nigeria has historically fallen behind in digital adoption, making urgent government intervention necessary to unlock opportunities for young people and build digital competitiveness.

The Governor stated that the fibre network forms the backbone of the State’s “One Government Enterprise” vision, which aims to digitise all government processes and ensure residents can access public services with a single click. He noted that the administration is committed to creating an environment where technology drives service delivery, economic expansion, and innovation. He described the fibre infrastructure as a major pillar of future e-governance and smart services that will support the State’s transformation agenda.

Governor Radda commended IHS for its partnership and said the government is ready to welcome more ICT sector players. He also announced plans to ensure all local government headquarters eventually enjoy free internet access. This plan, he said, is part of a broader effort to ensure that no community is left behind. He reaffirmed that every local government must have at least one Digital Touchpoint to support efficient e-governance and provide young people with stable, high-speed internet access.

Alongside the fibre network, Governor Radda commissioned the Independent Solar Power Plant developed in partnership with IHS Towers. He explained that reliable energy is essential for powering the fibre infrastructure and ensuring uninterrupted connectivity across the State. He highlighted that the combination of strong digital infrastructure and dependable energy will help build a more modern, connected, and productive Katsina.

The Governor reiterated his commitment to policies that attract investment, expand digital infrastructure, and create opportunities for youth employment, creativity, and innovation. He said the fibre network and solar project show Katsina’s determination to become a leading destination for technology investment and digital enterprise. He ended his remarks by saying, “The world has moved. Katsina will not only move with it—we will lead.”

After his remarks, Governor Radda formally commissioned the Katsina Metropolitan Area Fibre Network and the Independent Solar Power Plant, dedicating the projects to the people of Katsina State. He reaffirmed his pledge to continue championing initiatives that strengthen the State’s digital economy and support its growing innovation ecosystem.

Earlier in the event, the Director General of KATDICT, Naufal Ahmed, explained that strong policy foundations are essential for unlocking the State’s rapidly growing technology and innovation ecosystem. He said that policy is the backbone of digital progress, economic diversification, and long-term development. He added that Katsina is now a national leader, becoming Nigeria’s first sub-national to adopt and pass the Startup and Innovation Bill. This milestone, he said, sends a strong message of support to innovators, stating, “We see you, we believe in you, and we are ready to invest in you.”

According to the DG, technology is now a major driver of Nigeria’s economy, contributing over 14% of GDP. He said Katsina has the opportunity to leap ahead in innovation, digital skills, and youth empowerment. With strong growth, he noted that the State may soon face increasing demand for technical skills, possibly requiring imported professionals to meet the needs of a fast-growing digital market.

He said technology can help solve major challenges in unemployment, agriculture, security, education, and healthcare. These possibilities, he explained, are supported by the Governor’s leadership, which led to the creation of KATDICT and strong policy support for digital expansion.

The DG commended the Governor as the State prepared to unveil the major fibre project. He reported that the infrastructure, valued at over ₦4.7 billion, came at zero cost to the State because Governor Radda waived the Right of Way charges. He said this decision opened the digital market, made Katsina highly attractive to investors, and created interest from companies like IHS and MTN. He added that the State has also streamlined permitting through a one-stop system where approvals are issued within 14 days, supported by clear conflict-resolution processes.

He revealed that discussions are ongoing to adopt the Dig Once Policy, also known as Dig 1 Policy, which could reduce fibre deployment costs by up to 70% by encouraging shared ducts and preventing repeated road excavation. He noted that with strong infrastructure, skilled talent, and improving power supply, Katsina is positioned to lead in Nigeria’s innovation space.

He concluded by saying that the future being built aligns with Governor Radda’s vision of a smart, innovation-driven State powered by strong policies, modern infrastructure, reliable electricity, and continuous investment in creativity.

The commissioning was attended by the Commissioner for Commerce and Tourism, Hon. Yusuf Jirdede; Economic Adviser Khalil Nura Khalil; and several other senior government officials.

FG Launches Electric Tricycle Empowerment Initiative for Youth

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FG Launches Electric Tricycle Empowerment Initiative for Youth

The federal government through the Minister for Youth Development, Olawande Emmanuel Ayodele, has announced the launch of the Electric Tricycle Empowerment Initiative at Eagle Square. The event brought together young people from the informal transportation sector, marking what the minister described as a renewed commitment to national development.

He stated, “No youth left behind. Today, we converged at the Eagle Square to launch the Electric Tricycle Empowerment Initiative for young people in the informal sector, especially those powering our transportation economy every single day.”

He explained that the gathering represented more than a ceremonial activity, noting, “What we witnessed today is more than an event. It is renewal, a bold statement that young people in Nigeria, whether formal or informal, will not be left out of our nation’s economic transformation.” According to him, the new programme aims to correct years of imbalance in youth-focused interventions by expanding support to transporters, mechanics, technicians, and others often excluded from formal schemes.

The initiative follows the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to ensure that empowerment reaches every category of youth. The minister said, “Today’s launch marks a turning point, an intentional effort to correct the long-standing imbalance where empowerment focused only on the formal youth population. With the clear mandate of inclusion given to us by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR; we are ensuring that every category of youth is carried along in our programmes.”

Ayodele highlighted that the Electric Tricycle Empowerment Initiative will offer solutions across key areas affecting young Nigerians in the transport economy. He noted, “This intervention will support young transporters, mechanics, technicians, and everyday hustlers, who all deserve dignity, opportunity, and sustainable income.” He added that the programme delivers support through job creation, improved earnings due to zero petrol costs, and reduced carbon emissions that align Nigeria with global electric vehicle trends.

He stressed that young Nigerians must not be left out of the worldwide shift to electric mobility, saying, “The world is moving to electric vehicles, and Nigeria’s youth must not be left behind.” He described the project as a sustainable model designed to help young people build long-term livelihoods. Ayodele also appreciated the partnership of Dr. Israel Olajumoke, Chief Executive Officer of House of Destiny, acknowledging his role in making the intervention possible.

Bagudu Urges Stronger Monitoring and Evaluation Systems

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Bagudu Urges Stronger Monitoring and Evaluation Systems

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, has stressed the importance of strengthening monitoring and evaluation systems as a key driver of Nigeria’s national development. He made this point at the Nigerian Association of Evaluators’ National Symposium on Strengthening National Development Through Inclusive and Collaborative M&E Systems held in Abuja on Tuesday.

Bagudu noted that monitoring and evaluation play a central role in evidence-based policy implementation, resource optimisation, and sustainable economic growth. He explained that effective M&E extends beyond routine checks and helps track progress, identify gaps, and guide corrective actions that support the country’s long-term development goals. According to him, “Monitoring and evaluation is not just a procedural exercise; it is a fundamental instrument for national progress.” He added that “It ensures that policies and programs deliver measurable impact, improve lives, and contribute meaningfully to our long-term development goals.”

The minister linked M&E to Agenda 2050, Nigeria’s long-term development blueprint, which outlines measurable targets for inclusive growth, GDP per capita improvement, and sustainable investment. He said achieving these objectives requires stronger collaboration among federal, state, and local governments, guided by the Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as altered.

Bagudu also referred to the Renewed Hope Ward-Based Development Plan, which highlights economic opportunities in Nigeria’s 8,809 wards. He explained that targeted investment in these local communities is expected to boost productivity, generate income, and support inclusive growth at the grassroots level.

He further emphasised that rigorous monitoring and evaluation are essential to Nigeria’s goal of building a $1 trillion economy. Evaluators and stakeholders were encouraged to adopt bold and data-driven approaches that strengthen accountability, transparency, and informed decision-making.

“Inclusive and collaborative monitoring and evaluation provides clarity, accountability, and a pathway to sustainable growth. It enables governments and citizens alike to harness opportunities, optimise resources, and actively participate in nation-building,” Bagudu said.

SAED Training Begins for 2025 Batch C Corps Members

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SAED Training Begins for 2025 Batch C Corps Members

The Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) training for the 2025 Batch C Corps Members began across all Orientation Camps on Monday, 24th November 2025, with what many described as an energetic start. Officials said SAED is not just another camp activity but a structured pathway into self-employment, creativity, and sustainable wealth creation. According to the organisers, “SAED is more than a camp activity; it’s your launchpad into self-employment, innovation, and sustainable wealth creation.”

Corps Members were encouraged to choose a skill and fully engage in the sessions designed to help them build practical knowledge for future opportunities. The management also highlighted its partnership with the Bank of Industry (BOI) and other institutions to ensure easy access to loans and grants.

They noted, “Yes, your vision can become reality,” stressing the importance of turning ideas into functional businesses. Participants were also invited to share their experiences.

Oluremi Tinubu Calls Nigerians in Diaspora to Support Innovation, Education

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Oluremi Tinubu Calls Nigerians in Diaspora to Support Innovation, Education

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerians living abroad to support the country’s growth by working closely with agencies at home to promote innovation. She made the call during a meeting with Nigerians in Qatar, held on the sidelines of the World Innovation Summit for Education in Doha. The gathering created an opportunity for direct interaction with citizens who are representing the country through various start ups and innovative solutions showcased at the summit.

Addressing the group, Senator Tinubu highlighted the role of education in shaping a brighter future for children. She said, “The best you can give children is the ability to dream on their own. Education gives that ability.” She explained that as Nigeria continues to regain its place and dignity among nations, those in the diaspora have an important role in contributing to national development. She encouraged them to see themselves as partners in rebuilding the country. “The Nigeria that gave us this opportunity to be what we are today, our youth also deserve it,” she stated.

The First Lady expressed appreciation for their efforts and encouraged them to stay optimistic about the nation’s future. She said, “We need to hold on to the optimism that our dear nation will be great again. See all the wonderful things you are all doing. I thank you all for making Nigeria proud.” She added that their experiences and achievements should inspire young people back home to think differently and embrace new possibilities. “You have to do more; talk to the students, the youth at home. They must start to have a mindset change and see the greater picture,” she said.

To help strengthen the link between innovators abroad and opportunities in Nigeria, Senator Tinubu referred some of the participants to the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, who was present at the meeting. She noted that deeper collaboration between start ups within and outside the country and government agencies could lead to meaningful progress for Nigerians.

While in Doha, the First Lady also received members of the Committee of Pro Chancellors of Federal Universities of Nigeria, who were attending the Education Beyond Borders Conference.

FG Launches Land4Growth Programme to Unlock $300bn in Dead Capital

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FG Launches Land4Growth Programme to Unlock $300bn in Dead Capital

The Federal Government has launched a new initiative called the Nigeria Land Titling, Registration and Documentation Programme, also known as Land4Growth, aimed at unlocking an estimated $300 billion in dead capital across the country.

The announcement was made in Kano by the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, during the 30th Conference of Directors of Lands in the Federal and State Ministries, Departments and Agencies. Dangiwa cautioned that bottlenecks around land ownership continue to create uncertainty for investors and place unnecessary hardship on citizens.

He explained that the government is finalising a major partnership with the World Bank and state governments to register, document, and title land nationwide. According to him, the success of the Land4Growth Programme is central to Nigeria’s ambition of building a One Trillion Dollar Economy. He said this requires deliberate steps to unlock revenue and strengthen property rights for citizens.

Dangiwa advised state governments to set aside a specific portion of their annual budgets to support land administration reforms. He said, “I strongly recommend and charge that Nigerian State Governments ring-fence between 1 and 3% of their annual budgets for land administration and systematic titling during the reform and scaling phase. If we spend on impact, not overheads, every State will unlock revenue, citizens will gain secure property rights, and land will become a true economic asset, not dead capital.”

He also noted that Nigeria performed poorly in the last World Bank Doing Business ranking on registering property, pointing to excessive procedures, long timelines, and high costs as major challenges that need to be addressed.

The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development said the annual Conference of Directors of Lands offers a platform for stakeholders to share ideas and push for sectoral growth. The theme of this year’s conference is Nigeria Land Titling, Registration and Documentation Programme Implementation Mission.

Ekiti Empowers Women with N20k Each Under Second Chance Programme

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Ekiti Empowers Women with N20k Each Under Second Chance Programme

The Ekiti State Government has empowered 37 graduates of its Second Chance Education programme with start-up equipment and financial support under the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment. The beneficiaries, made up of fashion designers and hairdressers, received their items during a graduation ceremony held at the Aduni Olayinka Building in Ado-Ekiti. At the event, the Wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, presented 24 sewing machines, 13 hair-drying machines, certificates of completion, and ₦20,000 cash to each participant.

Dr. Oyebanji reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to reducing unemployment through skills acquisition and economic empowerment. She encouraged the beneficiaries to make good use of the support given to them, saying, “I urge all of you to view these items not as giveaways but as tools of enterprise meant to create value, inspire dignity, and foster independence.” She noted that a monitoring and mentorship framework has been established to ensure the graduates continue to apply their skills and grow their businesses. Urging them to approach the future with courage, she added, “Let your work speak of discipline; let your success speak of integrity. You are proof that education never ends and that missed opportunities do not have to define the future.”

In her welcome address, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Kofoworola Aderiye, explained that the one-year programme provided participants with both foundational education and practical vocational training. She highlighted the importance of combining classroom learning with hands-on skills to help women and girls improve their economic prospects.

Delivering his goodwill message, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, described the graduation of the pioneering cohort as a clear sign that the policies of the present administration in human capital and youth development were achieving meaningful results. He commended the perseverance of participants and urged them to develop themselves into brands of excellence in their chosen fields.

Also giving goodwill messages, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Mrs. Peju Babafemi, and the Head of Service, Dr. Folake Olomojobi, encouraged the women to build on their newly acquired skills and stay productive as they begin their entrepreneurial journeys.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Miss Motunrayo Ologunja expressed gratitude to the state government and the AGILE Project for providing women and girls with renewed hope and meaningful opportunities. She described the empowerment as a major step toward helping many participants become self-reliant.

Moniepoint Wins Three Major Financial Innovation Awards

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Moniepoint Wins Three Major Financial Innovation Awards

Africa’s leading financial services innovator, Moniepoint Incorporated, has secured three major awards, strengthening its position as a key player in the continent’s digital financial space. The company won the Best SME Microfinance Bank of the Year for the second year in a row at the BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions Awards 2025. It was also recognised as the Largest Non-FI Acquirer in Africa at Mastercard EDGE 2025 in Dubai, and received the Most Outstanding Fintech Company of the Year at the 2025 Brandcom Awards.

In a statement, the chief executive of Moniepoint, Mr Tosin Eniolorunda, said the recognitions reflect the company’s continuous drive for innovation and its growing impact across Africa’s financial ecosystem. He noted that, “These awards motivate us to continue building the infrastructure that powers seamless and secure transactions across the continent. We’ll continue to make significant investments in technology, partnerships, and customer-centric solutions, while deepening our commitment to empowering millions of businesses and individuals with the financial tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital economy.”

The win at the 2025 Brandcom Awards highlighted Moniepoint’s rapid scale, strong consumer and business engagement, and its role in expanding financial inclusion across Africa during the 2024–2025 period. The recognition also pointed to the company’s leadership in shaping the fintech ecosystem through impactful products, platform reliability and continuous market growth.

The Mastercard EDGE award celebrated Moniepoint’s leadership in digital payments enablement, while the BAFI Award acknowledged its support for SMEs through business banking, credit, payments and management tools tailored for growth.

EDC, Fast Credit Launch Single-Digit Loan Scheme for MSMEs

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EDC, Fast Credit Launch Single-Digit Loan Scheme for MSMEs

The Enterprise Development Centre of Pan-Atlantic University has partnered with Fast Credit to introduce a new single-digit financing scheme aimed at supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises across the country. The announcement was made on Monday during an event held in Lagos, where both organisations explained that the initiative is designed to ease the funding challenges faced by many small businesses operating under high-interest loan conditions. According to the partners, the programme will give entrepreneurs a chance to access more affordable credit and grow their operations.

Acting Managing Director of Fast Credit Finance Company Ltd, Yetunde Faulkner, said the partnership focuses on helping MSMEs become more scalable and sustainable through better access to finance. She stated, “We are here to engage with EDC’s partners, who are SMEs, and provide them with the opportunity to access single-digit interest-rate financing through Fast Credit. We are offering any amount of loan, starting with N5m, under a partnership with one of our developmental finance partners, BOI, at a flat monthly interest rate of 0.75 per cent, which amounts to nine per cent per annum.” She added that Fast Credit has committed N2bn to the SME financing partnership to support entrepreneurs in growing revenue, managing costs and staying sustainable.

Faulkner also noted that the initiative aims to contribute to the creation of more jobs in the economy. She said, “We will be touching lives and families, and that in itself is one of the goals of Fast Credit: to make a tangible impact in the lives of everyday Nigerians, especially those in Lagos.”

Director of EDC, Dr Nneka Okekearu, described the agreement as an important step toward closing the funding gap that entrepreneurs have been struggling with for years. She explained that, although EDC already collaborates with several commercial banks, many businesses are unable to cope with the double-digit interest rates attached to their loans. “Today, we are doing something historic. We are signing an agreement with Fast Credit for single-digit loans for our members,” she said.

Okekearu said access to credit at single-digit rates will help businesses improve productivity and expand their operations. She noted that manufacturers will be able to increase their output, while many MSMEs will create more dignified employment opportunities for young Nigerians. According to her, “Someone who previously had just N2m to transact business now has access to N10m, and that means increased production capacity and healthier margins.” She added that entrepreneurs within EDC’s network who meet the required conditions will be able to access N5m at the nine per cent annual rate.

Executive Director at Fast Credit, Aviomoh Daniel, shared some of the key criteria used by lenders before giving out loans to MSMEs. He explained, “We look out for business worthiness, profitability and the character of the entrepreneur. Collateral is the last thing any credit firm considers. To be business-credible requires structure, and for security, it is better to register as a limited liability company.”

A business consultant, Feyikemi Odunuga, praised the partnership, saying it would make a significant difference for entrepreneurs who struggle to access capital. “I feel very good about it. I actually came to represent several of my mentees who always need funding. I will help them put things together so they can access the loan. I am a service provider, so this is particularly important for those in the manufacturing sector,” she said.

An EDC alumnus, Kachi Salvation, also welcomed the initiative, calling it “amazing” and noting that the programme will have a positive impact on many businesses. He said, “A lot of businesses are going to take advantage of this initiative. They will also train women on how to manage their businesses, and this will be done monthly. The single-digit interest rate is a huge relief for businesses.”

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