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Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation Launches Digital Training for Civil Servants

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Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation Launches Digital Training for Civil Servants

The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation has partnered with the Federal Government to strengthen digital capacity across the civil service, launching a new programme aimed at modernising public service delivery and improving efficiency nationwide. The initiative is being delivered with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation and Coronation Group, focusing on equipping civil servants with the practical digital skills required for smarter, technology-enabled governance.

According to the Foundation’s Deputy Director of Programmes, Eniola Olowu, the programme is designed to tackle outdated work processes and the low level of digital proficiency that continues to slow down service delivery in many Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. She stated that the goal is to support civil servants in adopting tools that enhance automation, data-driven decision-making, and improved collaboration for faster and more transparent public service.

The training covers four key areas, including Microsoft Office productivity tools, cloud collaboration and communication, enterprise systems, and digital workplace readiness. Participants will be trained to improve documentation accuracy, boost teamwork through cloud-based platforms, and increase workflow efficiency using the Enterprise Content Management System and Customer Relationship Management tools. These digital systems are expected to improve data accessibility and help MDAs offer quicker and more responsive services to citizens.

Olowu explained that digitalisation is essential to building a modern and citizen-centred civil service. She said, “Digitalisation is central to building a modern, efficient, and citizen-centred civil service. Through this initiative, we are empowering civil servants with practical digital skills that will enable smarter decision-making, improve accountability, and ultimately enhance public service delivery.”

She also noted that the Foundation’s work aligns with the Federal Government’s wider digitalisation efforts, including the rollout of the Enterprise Content Management System under the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan 2025.

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A’ Ibom Tells Youth to Prepare to Take Advantage of ARISE Hub

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A’ Ibom Tells Youth to Prepare to Take Advantage of ARISE Hub

The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Youth Development, Dr Ekerette Ekanem, has briefed young people on the Governor’s commitment to youth development, encouraging them to prepare to take advantage of the opportunities the ARISE Youth Friendly Hub project will offer once completed. This came during an unscheduled inspection of the hub in Nsit Atai Local Government Area on Monday, 24 November 2025, where he was accompanied by members of the Supervision and Monitoring Committee overseeing the thirty one Youth Friendly Hubs across the state.

During the visit, Dr Ekanem said he was satisfied with the progress of work at the site. He noted that the inspection was crucial at the stage when PVC materials are being used, explaining that it helps the ministry verify compliance with approved specifications. He commended the contractor, E Plus Construction Limited, stating that the company has shown strong commitment to delivering the Governor’s vision for youth development. He urged the contractor to “manage resources prudently” and to justify the confidence the state government has placed in them. He also reminded the team of the three month project timeline approved by the government and stressed the importance of meeting it.

The Member representing Uyo Federal Constituency, Mark Esset, and the Executive Chairman of Nsit Atai, Prince Anthony Nyong, received the inspection team. Both officials praised the Governor for initiating what they described as a landmark project for young people. They assured the Commissioner of their support to ensure the hub is completed on schedule and ready for commissioning.

Dr Ekanem also used the visit to interact with young people present at the site. He briefed them on the Governor’s plans for youth development and encouraged them to position themselves for the opportunities the hub will create. He further urged them to be responsible citizens and to ensure they register with the Independent National Electoral Commission.

The Supervision and Monitoring Committee accompanying him was set up by the Commissioner. It is chaired by the Director of Administration and Supplies, Anthony Isonguyo, who is currently performing the duties of the Permanent Secretary. The Secretary of the committee is the Director of Youth Affairs, Emmani Akpabio. Other members are Essien Essien, Head of Enterprise Development and Empowerment, Alexander Utin, Head of Networking and Social Mobilisation, Nsikak Essien, Head of Planning, Research and Statistics, and Glory David, the Information Officer of the Ministry. The monitoring exercise began on Saturday with a visit to the project site in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area.

Ignore Viral Claim on FCSC Uploading Shortlisted Candidates

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Ignore Viral Claim on FCSC Uploading Shortlisted Candidates

There is a viral Federal Civil Service Commission recruitment update claiming that the commission is uploading the names of shortlisted candidates. The message being shared reads, “Federal Civil Service Commission is gradually uploading the names of shortlisted candidates. It is advisable you regularly check your portal to know your stand. Kindly log into your profile on their portal to check your status.”

This claim has not been announced by the FCSC, and there are still no changes on the recruitment portal dashboard. When Nigeria Startup News asked one of the bearers of the story what candidates should even check for on the portal, the person responded, “it’s for those not shortlisted initially.” This is an unverified claim circulated by fake news merchants, and candidates are advised to ignore it.

Once the FCSC decides to move forward with the recruitment process in the coming days, all candidates will be notified. Always rely on official sources for updates.

US Offers Security, Humanitarian Support After Talks with Nigeria

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US Offers Security, Humanitarian Support After Talks with Nigeria

The United States has expressed its willingness to extend complementary support to Nigeria, including humanitarian assistance to affected populations in the Middle Belt and technical support to improve early-warning systems. This update followed a series of discussions and engagements held last week between a high-level Nigerian delegation and senior US officials, aimed at strengthening security partnerships and expanding cooperation to protect Nigerian citizens.

The Nigerian delegation was led by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and held meetings with officials from the US Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of War. During every engagement in Washington, DC, the delegation refuted allegations of genocide in Nigeria, stressing that violent attacks cut across religious and ethnic backgrounds. According to the delegation, wrongful framing of the situation “would only divide Nigerians and distort the realities on the ground.”

Following these talks, the United States Government confirmed its readiness to deepen security cooperation with Nigeria. This will include enhanced intelligence support, faster processing of defence equipment requests, and the possible provision of excess defence articles, subject to availability, to support ongoing operations against terrorists and violent extremist groups. US officials also noted that humanitarian and technical support would form part of the complementary assistance offered to vulnerable communities, especially in the Middle Belt.

Both countries agreed to immediately implement a non-binding cooperation framework and establish a Joint Working Group to coordinate the agreed areas of collaboration. In return, the Nigerian delegation reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening civilian protection and ensuring the safety of communities affected by insecurity.

Officials said the discussions helped correct several misconceptions about Nigeria, built a solution-focused partnership with the United States, and deepened mutual trust. These efforts, they added, would advance a more coordinated approach to protecting vulnerable communities across the country.

The Federal Government restated its awareness of heightened sensitivities around religious freedom and national security. It assured citizens that firm and coordinated actions are being taken to secure the country.

Members of the Nigerian delegation included Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, Attorney General of the Federation; Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, Inspector General of Police; General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff; Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Parker Undiandeye, Chief of Defence Intelligence; Ms. Idayat Hassan, Special Adviser to the NSA; and Ambassador Ibrahim Babani, Director of Foreign Relations at the Office of the National Security Adviser.

Katsina Secures N489.4bn Private Investment at 2025 Economic Summit

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Katsina Secures N489.4bn Private Investment at 2025 Economic Summit

Katsina State has recorded a major economic milestone after securing more than N489.4 billion in private-sector investment commitments at the 2025 Economic and Investment Summit. The event, held under the theme “Building Your Future Economy,” brought together investors, policymakers, business leaders, and development partners who explored new opportunities created through Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s economic reforms. Speaking during a fireside chat, Governor Radda said Katsina is now one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing investment destinations, explaining that the state no longer begs for investment but offers a secure, transparent, and innovation-driven environment backed by strong political will.

The Governor addressed security concerns by recalling that he inherited widespread insecurity, with 24 local governments under insurgent pressure. He explained that his administration introduced a community-based security model to restore peace. This includes the Katsina State Community Watch Group, which has trained and deployed over 2,500 young men, as well as Village and District Security Committees with 9,747 members providing intelligence to security agencies. Radda said improved coordination, allowances, and logistics have significantly reduced insecurity, leading to the reopening of markets like Sheme, Yantumaki, and Danmusa after more than six years of closure. He added that farmers enjoyed a bumper harvest last year, irrigation has resumed, and seasonal security deployments now protect farmers during planting and harvest. “We have created a fertile and secure ground for your investments. Katsina is ready for you,” he said.

Governor Radda outlined several reforms to improve the ease of doing business, including the Treasury Single Account, the Directorate of ICT, and SPIME. He also highlighted the Public Service Administration Reform Department, strengthened support for MSMEs through KASEDA, and the rollout of KATGIS to enhance land administration. The state has launched a digital one-stop shop for business registration and regulatory services and introduced the Sustainable Agricultural Development Platform to boost food production. Farm mechanization centers have been established across all 34 LGAs, allowing farmers to request machinery digitally. He added that bills before the State Assembly will ensure long-term sustainability.

On global partnerships, the Governor mentioned the creation of the Katsina State Development Management Board to coordinate international engagements. He cited progress with World Bank-supported projects such as AGILE, TESS, and RAAMP, as well as a UNDP-supported housing project that delivered 152 houses for displaced persons in Jibia. Other collaborations include donations of medical equipment from the World Relief Agency in Michigan and Pure Life Medical Equipment, along with a U.S. educational partnership that has sent ten containers of learning materials. He also announced the expansion of the Nigeria for Women Project to all 34 LGAs through an additional N4 billion state commitment.

In the energy sector, the Governor confirmed ongoing work on a 1-megawatt hydroelectric project in Danja. He also revealed that Katsina recently signed an MoU with the Border Security Agency of Belarus to strengthen its security architecture. “We refuse to fall behind. We will not remain at the back,” he said, adding that Katsina’s goal is to remain visible, competitive, and progressive.

Governor Radda assured investors of sincerity and readiness to partner with them, saying, “Your investments will not only yield profit; they will build factories, create jobs, power clinics, support schools, and transform lives.” He noted Katsina’s long history of scholarship, trade, and intellectual excellence and stressed that all reforms are anchored on human development. “Our investments must be people-centered,” he said.

Earlier, KIPA Director-General Alhaji Ibrahim Tukur Jikamshi described the summit as “a defining moment” for Katsina’s transformation. Delivering the keynote, Senator Ibrahim Ida noted that Nigeria’s biggest challenge has been good plans without implementation. He praised Governor Radda for breaking this pattern and said private-sector investment must now drive the state’s economic transformation. He highlighted Katsina’s strategic advantages, including its border location, links with Niger Republic, youthful population, rich resources, and renewable-energy prospects. He emphasized economic diversification, human capital development, and security as the three essential pathways for growth. On insecurity, he said military action alone is not enough and called for intelligence-driven, community-led approaches.

Goodwill messages came from Alhaji Dikko Ladan of Dar Alhalal, Abubakar Ibrahim Danmusa of CONSTRIX and Estate, representatives of the Nigerian Agricultural Development Fund, PwC, and others who commended the state government. Several MoUs were signed with the Abils Group, Dar Alhalal, and the Global Innovation Laboratory. Companies that have already invested include Darma Rice Mill, Gobarau Agro Allied Companies, Equatorial Marine Oil and Gas Company Limited, and Boko Fertilizer Nigeria Limited.

The summit was attended by the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, Yusuf Tanko Sununu; business leaders Dahiru Barau Mangal, Dr. Umar Mutallab, and Alhaji Ibrahim Mijinyawa; representatives of the Kaduna and Yobe State governments; and members of the Katsina State Executive Council.

Nigeria Pushes for Africa’s Permanent UN Security Council Seat

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Nigeria Pushes for Africa’s Permanent UN Security Council Seat

Nigeria has renewed its push for Africa to secure permanent seats with veto power in the United Nations Security Council, describing the reform of the global governance system as long overdue. This position was presented at the 7th African Union–European Union Summit in Luanda, Angola, where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, urged the European Union to support Africa’s long-standing request. He said, “It is time for Africa to occupy permanent seats on the UN Security Council, with all attendant privileges, including the veto.”

Speaking during the first plenary session on Peace, Security, Governance and Multilateralism, the President emphasised that cooperation between Africa and Europe must become stronger to tackle armed conflict, illicit weapons, climate pressures, irregular migration, and political instability. He noted that over 250,000 Boko Haram-affiliated individuals had surrendered in early 2025 as a result of Nigeria’s use of both kinetic and non-kinetic measures. He explained, “As of early 2025, over 120,000 Boko Haram-affiliated individuals, including family members, have surrendered.”

President Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s experience, saying that regional instability, if ignored, fuels terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and organised crime. He pointed to the Multinational Joint Task Force in the Lake Chad Basin as a successful African-led security model and commended the EU for its steady partnership since the creation of the African Peace and Security Architecture in 2002. He added that the recent Sea-Lift Agreement between the Nigerian Navy and the AU Standby Force is boosting Africa’s rapid deployment capacity for peace and humanitarian support.

While recognising Europe’s concerns about irregular migration, the President stressed that criminalising mobility has worsened insecurity. He proposed structured labour pathways, including Nigeria’s Technical Aid Corps and opportunities in Business Process Outsourcing, noting that West Africa has a long history of seasonal movement. He stated, “Our joint task is to convert mobility into safe, orderly, and productive pathways that benefit both continents.”

On governance issues, the President criticised the rising cases of Unconstitutional Changes of Government across Africa, linking them to external pressures that destabilise fragile political systems. He announced the Regional Partnership for Democracy, created by Nigeria and neighbouring countries to strengthen constitutional order, counter extremist narratives, combat disinformation, and support governance reforms. He warned about the worsening conflicts in Sudan and South Sudan, noting that the Sudan crisis has caused more than 40,000 deaths and displaced over 12 million people. He said external actors contributing to the conflict must be held accountable.

President Tinubu insisted that Africa’s peace and security challenges must be addressed through African-led frameworks. He stressed, “We stand resolutely against the use of private military and security companies in African conflicts, as their presence often complicates resolution efforts and undermines state sovereignty.” He added that despite a global decline in support for multilateralism, the EU remains a valuable partner for cooperation based on respect and shared goals.

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to peace, security, and democratic governance across the continent, stating that the country is ready to work closely with the EU to create a more stable and prosperous world. The President expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Angola for their hospitality and thanked the European Union for its long-standing support to the African Union, especially in peace and security efforts.

FG to Launch Emergency Fund for Gender-Based Violence Response

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FG to Launch Emergency Fund for Gender-Based Violence Response

The federal government has announced plans to establish an emergency gender-based violence response fund to close Nigeria’s major funding gaps in prevention and survivor support services. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, minister of women affairs, made this known on Monday in Abuja during a high-level engagement held to mark the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. The event was organised in partnership with Women for Women International.

She explained that the fund had become urgent because less than 0.5 per cent of the national budget currently goes to GBV prevention and response, leaving safe spaces and support centres struggling. She expressed concern over the increasing attacks on women and girls, including the recent abduction of schoolchildren in Kebbi and Niger States, as well as the kidnapping of six female directors. She described the incidents as a national emergency that highlighted the vulnerability of women across the country.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim said GBV remained one of Nigeria’s most pervasive human rights violations. She cited the National Demographic and Health Survey, which showed that 28 per cent of women aged 15 to 49 had faced physical violence, while 40 per cent had suffered emotional abuse. She added that despite more reports being made, the national conviction rate for GBV cases remained below five per cent.

The minister explained that the response fund would be integrated into the ministry’s 9-Pillar Renewed Hope Social Impact Intervention Programme. According to her, the initiative aims to strengthen institutions, expand safe spaces, and improve justice delivery through specialised gender desks and courts across all states. She added that the ministry was working to raise the national GBV conviction rate from five per cent to 25 per cent by 2026, alongside plans to establish comprehensive support centres in all senatorial districts.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim applauded recent landmark convictions and called for a compassionate review of Ochanya’s case to ensure justice. She urged government agencies, development partners, civil society groups, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and the media to work with Nigeria’s National Action Plan. Ending GBV, she said, was both a moral duty and a development priority needed for national stability and economic progress.

Beatrice Eyong, UN Women representative in Nigeria, noted that although the country had ratified major conventions and passed laws like the VAPP Act and Child Rights Act, enforcement was still weak. She called for stronger legal implementation to hold perpetrators accountable and for more awareness programmes to help citizens recognise and prevent GBV. Eyong highlighted the importance of response systems, pointing to one-stop centres created through the Spotlight Initiative, saying, “These centres provide integrated services, including legal aid, healthcare, psychosocial support, and economic reintegration for survivors.” She also stressed the roles of traditional leaders and men in prevention efforts, along with the use of technology to strengthen GBV response.

Thelma Ekiyor, CEO of Women for Women International, outlined the group’s Stronger Women, Stronger Nations programme, which offers 12 months of leadership training, economic empowerment, and community engagement. Drawing lessons from 14 conflict-affected countries, she identified five key areas: protection and safety, public awareness, stronger legal enforcement, shelters, and men’s engagement. She said the organisation was ready to partner with the ministry to scale interventions and make Nigeria a model for regional GBV prevention and response.

Apply for Ahmadu Bello University Recruitment for Academic/Non-teaching

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Apply for Ahmadu Bello University Recruitment for Academic/Non-teaching

Ahmadu Bello University has announced the opening of applications in its Special Bulletin ISSN: 0345-0749, Volume 17 No. 96 released on Monday, stating that positions for academic and non-teaching staff for 2025 are now available. The bulletin noted that applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates to fill various vacancies across the institution. It added that applicants must “have the right qualifications for the position you are applying for,” including the required degree, certificate, or skills.

The university also stated that candidates “must upload your CV and all your documents on the ABU application portal” and present an NYSC certificate or exemption if they are graduates. According to the notice, applicants must also meet any experience requirements tied to the role.

Interested candidates should apply through https://careers.abu.edu.ng, adding that only shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview.

The announcement was signed by Registrar Rabiu Samaila.

Lagos Announces 2025 Pilgrimage Screening Schedule

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Lagos Announces 2025 Pilgrimage Screening Schedule

Lagos State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced the first phase of the 2025 administrative and medical screening for intending pilgrims to Israel and Jordan. The Board said the exercise will hold on Thursday, 27 November 2025, at the Chapel of Christ the Light, Alausa, starting at 9am.

According to the Board Secretary, Okudero Gbolabo Omoniyi Ph.D., all participants must come with two passport photographs, their international passport with three photocopies, and the original and photocopy of their payment receipt or teller. He added, We look forward to seeing you at the scheduled venue as the process begins officially today.

Apply for Zenith Bank Scholarship for Caleb University 2025/2026

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Apply for Zenith Bank Scholarship for Caleb University 2025/2026

The application for the Zenith Bank and Caleb University Scholarship Award is now open for the 2025/2026 academic session. According to the notice, Zenith Bank is offering scholarships to “deserving students seeking admission into Caleb University, Imota, Lagos State.”

The eligibility requirements include “a minimum of 5 O’Level credits relevant to the chosen course of study” and “a valid JAMB result.”

The deadline for submitting applications is Wednesday, 26 November 2025. The scholarship examination will take place on Friday, 28 November 2025 at Caleb University, Imota Campus, starting at 9:00am.

Interested applicants are directed to fill and submit the online form at https://realtime.zenithbank.com/InstitutionScholarship. Students who already gained admission into Caleb University need not apply.

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