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Nigeria, Sierra Leone Sign Deals on Digital Skills and Technology

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Nigeria, Sierra Leone Sign Deals on Digital Skills and Technology

The Governments of Nigeria and Sierra Leone have held a bilateral engagement in Freetown aimed at improving cooperation in the digital economy, technology innovation, and cross-border trade. The meeting brought together senior officials from both countries, led by Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, and Sierra Leone’s Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, Salimah Bah. Private-sector leaders from the two nations also joined the discussions to explore new opportunities that can support regional growth.

Both governments restated their shared commitment to strengthening regional integration and supporting the development of a more innovative and inclusive West African economy. The talks covered several key areas the two countries consider important.

These include digital public infrastructure, interoperable government systems, broadband expansion, cybersecurity, data governance, artificial intelligence development, responsible innovation, and talent building. Officials emphasized that cross-border digital trade and stronger private-sector partnerships will play an important role in improving economic outcomes.

During the engagement, Nigeria and Sierra Leone signed a number of Memoranda of Understanding to support structured cooperation. The MoUs cover digital public infrastructure, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, digital skills, broadband development and spectrum collaboration. Private-sector companies from both countries also signed partnership agreements focused on expanding digital services, strengthening fintech, edtech, healthtech, govtech and cloud solutions, and supporting startup exchange. Both governments described these agreements as a major step toward creating shared economic opportunities and boosting innovation across the region.

The two sides agreed to set up a Joint Technical Working Group that will monitor and review the progress of all signed agreements. According to the officials, the group will provide regular updates to both ministers and recommend new areas where cooperation can be expanded. The commitment to this structure shows the interest of both countries in maintaining long-term collaboration.

Nigeria and Sierra Leone also highlighted a shared belief that stronger cooperation is important for West Africa’s future. Officials noted that the region’s prosperity depends on freer movement of ideas and deeper collaboration among neighboring countries. They added that the bonds connecting communities across West Africa are stronger than the borders that separate them, and that distributed innovation can help unlock new opportunities for growth.

Both governments expressed appreciation for the positive engagement. Nigeria thanked Sierra Leone for the warm reception and support offered during the visit, while Sierra Leone praised Nigeria’s role in driving digital transformation in the region. The joint communiqué was issued by both governments and signed by Isime Esene of the Office of the Honourable Minister.

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NADF, Mastercard, FCMB Launch Cassava Programme for 12000 Oyo Women

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NADF, Mastercard, FCMB Launch Cassava Programme for 12000 Oyo Women

The National Agricultural Development Fund has launched its blended on-lending financing partnership with Psaltry International Company Limited, marking the official flag-off of a programme designed to support thousands of women farmers in Oyo State. The event took place during Psaltry International’s 20th anniversary celebration at its plant in Alayide village, Awaye, Iseyin Local Government Area. Supported by Mastercard Foundation and IDH, the initiative aims to empower 12,000 young women in cassava cultivation in its first phase, with a broader plan to reach 45,000 women by the end of the programme.

Through the NADF Blended Finance On-Lending Programme, the Fund is contributing ₦798 million, which represents 51 per cent of the total financing, while Mastercard Foundation is providing 49 per cent. The funding will be used to support the cultivation of 2,400 hectares of cassava and will directly engage 12,000 women farmers through Psaltry’s structured network of outgrowers and ingrowers. FCMB is serving as the participating financial institution that will enable seamless disbursement of funds across all stages of the project.

The Executive Secretary of NADF, Mohammed A. Ibrahim, who was represented by Abiodun Sosanya, General Manager of Corporate Services, explained the agency’s dedication to agricultural development and wider economic growth. He said, “This collaboration seeks to support the working capital needs of Psaltry International through the cultivation of cassava by a dedicated network of farmers, while complementing Mastercard Foundation’s financing of the farmers’ input requirements.”

He noted that the programme is designed to ensure timely access to quality inputs, provide guaranteed markets through backward integration, reduce production costs through subsidised lending, and promote value addition from locally grown cassava.

He added that the initiative supports the food security and sovereignty goals under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. By boosting local cassava production, processing and distribution, the partnership strengthens domestic food systems, reduces the dependence on imports and expands economic opportunities for rural women.

The MD and CEO of FCMB, Yemisi Edun, represented by Obaro Odeghe, Executive Director of Wholesale Banking, described the collaboration as a major step forward for agricultural financing. She stated, “This initiative is funding the cultivation of 2,400 hectares of cassava under the NADF–Mastercard Foundation–FCMB collaboration. It enables Psaltry to scale up cassava and sorbitol production while addressing Nigeria’s agricultural finance gap. NADF’s support demonstrates the power of purposeful public-private partnerships in repositioning agriculture as a key economic driver.”

Founder and CEO of Psaltry International, Oluyemisi Iranloye, highlighted the importance of the moment. She said, “As we celebrate 20 years of Psaltry, this collaboration will impact 15,000 women initially and 45,000 by the end. From cassava we produce food grain, starch, high-quality cassava flour, sorbitol and glucose for Nigerian companies.

It provides import substitution, strengthens local supply chains, and supports youth, internally displaced persons and people with disabilities. Today’s milestone reaffirms our commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable agriculture.”

The partnership reflects NADF’s strategy of using blended finance to reduce risks in agricultural value chains, expand structured financing for smallholder farmers and enhance raw material supply for agro-industries. By merging public sector backing, private banking systems and international foundation support, the initiative sets a pathway for scalable investment that boosts productivity and economic inclusion across Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

Delta Deputy Governor Awards N140m Scholarships to 683 Students

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Delta Deputy Governor Awards N140m Scholarships to 683 Students

Delta State Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme, has presented scholarship cheques worth more than N140 million to 683 beneficiaries under the Monday Onyeme Foundation Scholarship Scheme. The event, held in Asaba, marked a major milestone for the foundation, which Onyeme established in 2017 to support educational advancement in Delta North.

Supporters of the foundation, including Ngozi Okolie, Emeka Nwaobi, Charles Emetulu, Marilyn Okowa-Daramola, Bridget Anyafulu and Obi Nzete, also donated additional cash gifts ranging from N50,000 to N200,000 to the top-performing candidates.

Speaking at the ceremony, Onyeme said education remains the most effective tool for breaking the cycle of poverty. He explained that the initiative was created to ensure that no child in Ndokwa land or across Delta North is denied access to education because of financial challenges. “Today, we celebrate 683 bright minds who successfully passed the aptitude tests conducted in September. With this set, over 2,500 students have benefited from the scholarship since inception,” he said.

The Deputy Governor urged the beneficiaries to stay focused, maintain good character and give back to society when they become successful. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to human capital development under the MORE Agenda of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Onyeme also thanked parents, donors and partners who contributed millions of naira to support the programme, and commended the foundation’s team for their transparent and consistent work.

Chairman of the occasion, Victor Ochei, represented by Sir Vincent Ugbalase, praised Onyeme for sustaining the scholarship scheme and congratulated the recipients. In a goodwill message, the Commissioner for Higher Education, Prof John Tonukari, represented by Dr Emoefe Okpimah, also commended the foundation and encouraged the students to pursue their studies with commitment.

The Vice-Chancellor of Dennis Osadebay University, Prof Ben Oghojafor, described the scholarship scheme as worthy of emulation and stressed the roles of parents and stakeholders in building a strong educational base for young people.

A major highlight of the event was the presentation of cheques to top scorers from the three federal constituencies. In Aniocha/Oshimili, overall best performer Osemeke Deborah received N600,000. Divine Favour Onyekachi and Odogwu Chukwuka, who tied for second place, received N500,000 each, while Odega Uche and Samuel Emeke received N400,000 each.

Top candidates from Ika and Ndokwa/Ukwuani constituencies also received their cheques. Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the foundation and promised to work hard to justify the investment in their education.

Gombe Governor Urges World Bank to Increase State Funding

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Gombe Governor Urges World Bank to Increase State Funding

Governor Alhaji Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, represented by his deputy, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau, has urged the World Bank to increase funding and support to the people of Gombe State, stressing that communities must take ownership of the projects to ensure long-term sustainability. The governor said the assistance already received has helped the state provide key infrastructure that aligns with its development agenda, and he emphasized the need for continued backing to protect and expand these gains.

This call was made during the visit of the World Bank’s country director of sustainable development for Western and Central Africa, Mr. Chakib Janane, who led a team to inspect completed and ongoing interventions across the state. The delegation reviewed major projects including SURWASH, which focuses on improving water supply and sanitation, as well as L-PRESS and ACReSAL.

Mr. Janane expressed satisfaction with the progress recorded. He said he was pleased with what he saw on ground and explained that the bank’s commitment was reflected in the development happening within communities. According to him, the tour gave the team a clearer understanding of local needs and helped identify areas requiring deeper support. He added that witnessing the achievements physically would guide the bank as it plans further assistance for the benefit of residents.

The governor’s strong request for increased funding and his appeal for communities to own the projects formed the central message of the event, as officials stressed that sustainability depends on active local participation and protection of the investments already made.

Over 1000 Osun Women Get Grants from Oyetola Empowerment Initiative

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Over 1000 Osun Women Get Grants from Oyetola Empowerment Initiative

The Executive Director of Marine and Operations at the Nigerian Ports Authority, Olalekan A. Badmus, has highlighted the impact of the empowerment initiative sponsored by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, stating that over 1,000 women in Osun State have already benefited from the programme. Badmus made this known on Saturday during the fifth edition of the empowerment event held at the Tinubu/Shettima campaign office in Osogbo.

Badmus explained that the initiative was created to support women running small-scale businesses by giving them grants that could help their ventures grow. According to him, “The major aim of this programme is to give back to society. It is organised for residents of Osun State across the federal constituency to encourage women involved in small-scale businesses by providing grants that will support their ventures.” He added that more editions were already being planned so that even more women can benefit in the coming months.

Emphasising the scale of the intervention, Badmus said, “This is the fifth edition, and over 1,000 individuals have benefited from the initiative. Plans are underway to increase the number.” He noted that the programme has become a reliable support system for many women who need financial assistance to stay active in local trade.

Speaking at the same event, Badmus also addressed the upcoming All Progressives Congress governorship primary scheduled for December 13, 2025. He assured party members that the APC would remain united despite competition among aspirants. According to him, “APC has its own mechanism to maintain the unity of the party. I am confident that the party leadership is working diligently to ensure that all gubernatorial aspirants are united before, during, and after the primary.” He stated that the party’s leadership understands the political environment and has the right structure to manage internal issues effectively.

The pioneer Field Commander of Osun Amotekun, Comrade Amitolu Shittu, also praised the initiative, saying, “Since Oyetola left government in 2022, his organisation, Ilerioluwa, is the only political group that attends to the needs and welfare of the people of the state individually.”

Kaduna Targets 10,000 Jobs Through $3bn Green Minerals Investment

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Kaduna Targets 10,000 Jobs Through $3bn Green Minerals Investment

Kaduna State has placed job creation at the centre of its new economic direction as the government announced major development targets during the International Investment Forum and Roadshow for Solid Minerals in Nigeria, held alongside the G-20 Summit in South Africa. Governor Uba Sani said the state’s next phase of growth will focus heavily on employment opportunities, income improvements and poverty reduction.

According to him, “over the next two years, Kaduna State is targeting $2.5–$3 billion in new investments, the creation of more than 10,000 jobs, up to $90 million in household income gains, and the lifting of 50,000–70,000 citizens out of poverty.”

The governor gave these projections while delivering a keynote speech titled “Unlocking Kaduna’s Green Minerals Future: From Exploration to Industrialisation.” He said Kaduna’s long-term vision is tied to a greener and more industrial economy that allows young people and households to benefit directly from new investments. He described the state as a dynamic mining and industrial hub with more than 11 million residents and 23 identified mineral assets ranging from gold and lithium to tin, iron ore and limestone.

Governor Sani explained that the state has adopted a plan that focuses on value addition rather than exporting raw minerals. He said Kaduna is building processing centres, certification hubs and public-private partnerships to support industrial growth. According to him, this approach is already showing results, with more than $2.1 billion in long-term investments and strong exploration activities from reputable international companies. He added that these developments confirm Kaduna as “Nigeria’s next frontier for green-minerals–driven development.”

After the Forum, the Kaduna Mining Development Company signed five strategic Memoranda of Understanding. These include an agreement with X-Calibur Smart Mapping for advanced mineral mapping and tracking of illegal mining, and another with Core International Mining & Marketing Co for establishing and running the $150 million Kaduna State Green Mining Investment Fund.

Other agreements were with Rosebank Capital for investment mobilisation and project development, Vuka Group for integration into Africa’s mining ecosystem, and DCX Global & Precious Metals Tswane for setting up a gold aggregation and processing centre in Kaduna.

The governor called for stronger partnerships between Nigeria and South Africa in investment and technology transfer. He also acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reforms, saying they have improved the ease of doing business and strengthened support for states. Governor Sani said Kaduna is prepared to unlock its green minerals future while delivering large-scale job opportunities and economic progress for its citizens.

School Closures in North Dangerous, Sokoto Security Adviser Warns

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School Closures in North Dangerous, Sokoto Security Adviser Warns

The Special Adviser to the Sokoto State Governor on Security Matters, Col. Ahmed Usman (retd), has raised concern over the growing trend of shutting down schools in northern Nigeria as a response to insecurity. He said the practice is becoming counterproductive and could worsen the region’s educational and socio-economic situation if not addressed properly.

Usman explained that while the safety of students and teachers must remain a top priority, turning school closures into a routine reaction to threats is not a sustainable solution. He warned that it disrupts learning, limits opportunities for young people, and could even encourage violent groups to continue their actions.

He said, “I am not in support of the closure of schools in our region because this is a serious setback, and it encourages the perpetrators. Instead, the government should rise to the occasion and address the insecurity in our region and country, perhaps by applying both kinetic and non-kinetic measures.”

According to him, the long-term stability of Northern Nigeria depends heavily on securing uninterrupted access to education. He called on federal and state governments, security agencies, and community leaders to work more closely together and design a clear, comprehensive plan to protect schools and rebuild trust among citizens.

The Special Adviser highlighted the need for stronger intelligence gathering, better community-driven security efforts, and improved welfare for security personnel. He said these steps are necessary to reduce attacks on schools and communities.

Usman also pointed out that non-kinetic approaches are just as important. These include dialogue, youth empowerment, rehabilitation of vulnerable groups, and addressing root causes of insecurity such as poverty and unemployment.

Reaffirming the commitment of the Ahmed Aliyu administration to the safety and development of children, he urged parents, traditional rulers, and civil society organisations to support ongoing peace efforts. He stressed that creating safe learning environments is essential for the region’s future and warned that school closures should not replace firm action against insecurity.

Pix-Her Africa Partners Launch Training for 20 Nigerian Girls

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Pix-Her Africa Partners Launch Training for 20 Nigerian Girls

Kidpreneur Africa Foundation has announced a new partnership with Studio24, Kodak Moments, Canon Academy, and Derwin Film Academy to empower selected girls across Nigeria with creative and photography skills. The announcement was made at a press conference in Lagos, where the organisations officially introduced the Pix-Her Africa project, the platform through which the training will take place.

Juliet Vincent-Obi, founder and executive director of Kidpreneur Africa Foundation, explained that the project will support 20 Nigerian girls between the ages of 15 and 18. She said the programme will begin with a six-month in-house training at Studio24 in Lagos, followed by an additional one year and six months of apprenticeship to help the girls deepen their skills. Vincent-Obi described the opportunity as one that could open doors for the participants, encouraging them to use the programme as inspiration to build their own photography careers. She told the girls, “there is no excuse for you not to succeed. Do not settle for less.”

Studio24 team leader, Chris Oputa, also spoke at the event, noting that the photography industry is experiencing a major shift and that women should have a strong role in shaping its future. He stressed the importance of proper empowerment and investment to correct the impression that the creative sector is dominated by males. Oputa added that Pix-Her Africa offers a rare opportunity for young girls because it is a paid apprenticeship that can help them start a career or business in photography.

He explained how technology is influencing the industry, saying, “Technology has removed needless middlemen in the business, but has also shown them how to make money through other ways. And we are providing funding for these middlemen to be self-sufficient in the photography businesses.”

Representatives of Kodak Moments for the Middle East and Africa, Anja Weidel and Alfred Otieno, highlighted the importance of printed photographs and preserving memories on paper. They encouraged more young people to pursue careers in photography, especially at a time when the industry continues to evolve.

Founder of Derwin Film Academy, Grace Edwin-Okon, expressed concern about the limited number of women professionals in the photography space. She praised the partners for launching a project that will equip young girls with skills and show them what is possible in the creative field. As part of the partnership, she said Derwin Film Academy will train the girls in basic photography, filmmaking, film directing, scripting, special effect make-up, and other creative areas.

Co-founder of the academy, Alex Edwin-Okon, added that they are excited to support a project that empowers girls with practical skills, industry networks, and opportunities to earn income while learning.

Parents and guardians of the selected girls shared their appreciation at the event. Marvel Etietop, a parent, and Olufunso Arawole, a guardian, thanked the organisers for investing in the future of their children. Four of the beneficiaries, Blessed Emmanuel, Ibukunoluwa Akintola, Blessing Ayelu, and Naomi Edet, also expressed gratitude and promised to take full advantage of the opportunity.

Kaduna Government Denies El-Rufai’s ₦1 Billion Bandit Payment Claim

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Kaduna Government Denies El-Rufai’s ₦1 Billion Bandit Payment Claim

The Kaduna State Government has issued a strong and clear response to recent comments made by former Governor Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai during an interview on Channels Television. In the interview, El-Rufai claimed that the current administration led by Governor Uba Sani approved the payment of ₦1 billion to bandits. The government described this allegation as shocking, politically motivated, and completely without evidence.

According to the government, the statement by the former governor is not only wrong but also a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and create confusion. The administration said the comment was designed to inflame emotions and weaken the progress already recorded in improving security and rebuilding community trust in Kaduna State. Officials noted that such remarks were especially disappointing coming from someone who once held the highest office in the state.

The government explained that a former governor should show restraint, maturity, and a commitment to truth, especially on sensitive matters such as security. It said that weaponising insecurity for political advantage does not help the people and instead threatens public confidence. The statement noted that real leadership demands responsible communication and respect for the peace process currently underway.

The government also pointed out that Governor Uba Sani has publicly and consistently denied any involvement in paying money to criminals. He has repeatedly stated that he does not know any bandits, has never spoken to them, and has never authorised the payment of ransom or any other form of financial support. The state government said the governor has made this position clear in interviews, press briefings, and meetings with different community and security groups. They emphasised that not one naira or kobo has been paid to any criminal group under his administration.

The Kaduna State Government further highlighted that the Office of the National Security Adviser has in the past dismissed similar claims made by El-Rufai. ONSA described those earlier allegations as unfounded and not connected to the reality of how Nigeria’s security institutions operate. They stressed that it is not the practice or policy of the Federal Government or any state government to pay ransom to criminal organisations. With such a clear position from the country’s top security office, the state government said the truth should already be obvious to the public.

In its statement, the government outlined its current security strategy, saying it is centred on communities and backed by strong support from citizens, security agencies, international partners, and civil society groups. This approach includes intense military operations, intelligence gathering, and partnerships with lawful local leaders. It also focuses on addressing root causes of insecurity such as poverty and historical grievances. The government made it clear that its engagement is with communities and institutions, not criminals.

Security groups on the ground have also reacted. The Birnin-Gwari Vanguard for Security and Good Governance, which represents one of the communities most affected by banditry during El-Rufai’s time in office, publicly rejected his claims. They described the statements as distortions and half-truths. The government said the group’s lived experience gives their position significant weight and exposes the political nature of El-Rufai’s allegations.

The government also noted that El-Rufai himself has faced accusations in the past from officials who served in his administration. According to the statement, some senior figures previously alleged that he used public money to appease certain individuals, including bandits and herders. The government said these past accusations contradict his current attempts to present himself as outraged or morally upright.

Since Governor Uba Sani took office, the government said there has been progress in stabilising communities. Security agencies now work together more closely, and many schools, markets, and farms that were previously closed have reopened. Communities that were once divided by fear are reconnecting and rebuilding trust. The government added that individuals who oversaw periods of heightened insecurity in the past should recognise the importance of humility, instead of making statements that could derail the ongoing recovery.

The government challenged El-Rufai to present any real evidence if he has it. They invited him to release documents, memos, bank records, or any credible testimony that could support his claims. The state reminded the public that after making similar statements in September 2025, no proof ever came forward. Instead, the government said he has simply repeated old allegations to stir public reactions.

The Kaduna State Government said El-Rufai owes the people a sincere apology for spreading misinformation on such a serious matter. It added that if he fails to withdraw his statement and apologise within one week, the government will take legal steps to protect public order and defend the integrity of its institutions.

The statement ended by reaffirming the commitment of the Kaduna State Government to transparency, responsible security management, and the safety of all citizens. It stressed that the period of sensational claims without proof is over and declared that a new era of principled and effective security governance is now taking root in the state.

It was signed by Hon. Dr. Sule Shu’aibu, Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs.

KOSOPDEC Strengthens Ties with ISOPADEC for Community Development

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KOSOPDEC Strengthens Ties with ISOPADEC for Community Development

The Kogi State Oil Producing Area Development Commission has restated its commitment to driving development and improving the welfare of oil-producing communities in the state. This assurance was given during a four-day peer review tour of the Imo State Oil Producing Area Development Commission, which took place from Wednesday to Saturday, November 24, 2025, in Owerri, the Imo State capital.

Speaking during the visit, Chairman of KOSOPDEC, Comrade Suleiman Ndalayi Abdullahi, said the tour was designed to strengthen collaboration, compare operational models, and learn from ISOPADEC’s long-standing experience. He explained that the commission saw value in studying the systems of older agencies to understand both their opportunities and challenges. “As a young commission, it has become imperative to understudy older agencies in order to tap into their opportunities and filter their challenges,” he said. Abdullahi noted that the review provided useful guidance that would be adopted to speed up development across Kogi’s oil-producing communities.

He highlighted the strong working relationship between the Management and Board of KOSOPDEC, adding that both groups were committed to jointly delivering the vision of Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo for inclusive community development. He also commended the governor for providing the tools and support needed for the commission to start strong and appreciated Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State for approving the study visit.

Managing Director of KOSOPDEC, James Omonu Jackson, explained that ISOPADEC was selected for the first peer review tour because of its strategic position, notable achievements, and the cordial ties between Imo and Kogi states. He stated that ISOPADEC’s long experience made it a model for newer commissions. “ISOPADEC’s experience since its inauguration has made it a model for newer commissions like KOSOPDEC. Whatever we have learned here will be replicated at home to tighten loose ends and fast-track development,” Jackson said. He assured that the commission was ready to scale up its operations to meet the expectations of the people.

During an interactive session, ISOPADEC Chairman HRH Amuzienwa Dele Odigbo, former Sole Administrator Joakis Uzoka, and other officials emphasized the importance of establishing functional departments such as Administration, Finance and Accounts, Works, Education, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Legal, and Agriculture to ensure smooth project execution. They advised the Kogi delegation to strictly follow procurement rules and respect the agency’s laws, stressing that a harmonious relationship between the Board Chairman and Managing Director was key to effective operations.

The ISOPADEC leadership also underscored the need to include youths, women, and traditional institutions in development plans, warning that ignoring these groups could lead to unrest in host communities. APC Woman Leader, Princess Chinwe Njoku, encouraged KOSOPDEC to focus on community engagement and recommended creating liaison offices at both local government and state levels to improve communication and response to community needs.

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