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Kaduna Launches 150m Dollar Green Mining Fund at G20 Summit

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Kaduna Launches 150m Dollar Green Mining Fund at G20 Summit

Kaduna State drew global attention at the weekend as it launched a $150 million Green Mining Investment Fund during the first-ever African G20 Summit. The state immediately assigned international advisory firm Core International to structure, capitalise, and prepare the Fund for deployment by the end of Q1 2026. The ceremony was witnessed by Governor Uba Sani, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, marking a major step in Kaduna’s drive to become Nigeria’s hub for clean-energy mineral investment.

The new Fund aims to tackle one of Nigeria’s biggest mining challenges: access to early-stage, risk-tolerant financing. It is designed as a private-sector-driven platform that will co-fund exploration drilling and project preparation for key minerals in Kaduna, including Lithium, Rare Earth Elements, and Gold. These minerals are crucial to the global shift toward clean energy technologies, making the state’s move both timely and strategic.

Holding the signing ceremony in Johannesburg aligned with global conversations at the G20, where leaders focused heavily on critical minerals and sustainable development. Kaduna used the platform to signal that Nigeria intends to compete seriously in the international minerals market.

KMDC Managing Director, Engr. Shuaibu Kabir Bello, described the initiative as a major breakthrough, saying, “This Fund is the mechanism that moves Kaduna from potential to real value. We’re not just inviting investors, we’re sharing the exploration risk. This is the new investment standard for Nigeria.”

Core International’s Managing Partner, Suleiman Zakari, added that the partnership provides confidence for global financiers. “Our mission is simple—build a world-class Fund that deploys capital transparently and de-risks Kaduna’s exploration assets. This is a secure bridge for global capital.”

The Fund forms the final phase of Governor Uba Sani’s State Exploration Acceleration Programme, which also includes detailed geodata and upgraded infrastructure. These efforts are positioning Kaduna as one of Nigeria’s most exploration-ready and investor-friendly mining regions, while strengthening its role in the global critical minerals sector.

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Katsina Lawmaker Disburses N54.2m Scholarships to 2199 Students

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Katsina Lawmaker Disburses N54.2m Scholarships to 2199 Students

Hon. Abdullahi Aliyu Ahmed, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Interior and member representing Musawa/Matazu Federal Constituency in Katsina State, has disbursed N54,270,000 as scholarship allowances to 2,199 students from his constituency who are currently pursuing tertiary education across the country. The event took place on Saturday at the Musawa Local Government Secretariat, where students from various political wards in Musawa and Matazu Local Governments gathered after undergoing a rigorous screening by the Education Committee.

According to official records, 1,029 university students each received N30,000, bringing their total to N30,870,000. Another 1,170 students studying for National Diploma and the National Certificate in Education in Polytechnics and Colleges of Education were given N20,000 each, amounting to N23,400,000. The initiative was described as a deliberate effort to support students from less privileged backgrounds.

Speaking during the disbursement, Hon. Ahmed said the programme was designed to help young people compete fairly with their peers. He said, “We are focusing our political ideology and programmes on building and empowering the youths to secure their future and the future of society.”

He also promised to increase efforts toward youth development through education, skills acquisition, agricultural programmes, and employment opportunities. Ahmed revealed plans to secure employment letters for 420 constituents across all electoral wards in the Musawa/Matazu Federal Constituency.

The lawmaker listed some of his earlier achievements, noting that he had facilitated federal appointments for more than 181 constituents in sectors including Federal Teaching Hospitals, Federal Medical Centres, Federal Fire Service, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Army, Nigeria Immigration Service, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

In addition to the scholarship programme, Ahmed announced the distribution of 500 brand-new motorcycles to youths in the constituency to ease transportation challenges. He explained that 350 motorcycles had already been procured while another 150 were recently purchased to include more beneficiaries.

On infrastructure, he disclosed that 200 boreholes had been drilled in different locations to improve access to clean water. He also sponsored the ongoing construction of a Computer-Based Test Centre in Jikamshi town to support digital learning and examination processes.

Former Deputy Governor Tukur Ahmed Jikamshi commended the initiative and encouraged beneficiaries to use the funds wisely and stay committed to their studies. Professor Kabir Matazu, Executive Secretary of the Science and Technical School Board, endorsed Ahmed for a second term, citing his impactful programmes and dedication to improving lives in the constituency.

In his remarks, Chairman of Musawa Local Government, Hon. Aliyu Idris Gingin, described the scholarship scheme as a developmental project aimed at bringing democratic benefits closer to rural communities while supporting the education agenda of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s administration.

EU Approves €45m for Nigeria’s 3MTT Digital Skills Programme

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EU Approves €45m for Nigeria’s 3MTT Digital Skills Programme

The European Union and its partners have announced new actions to speed up Nigeria’s digital transformation as stakeholders gathered in Kano for the fifth Project Steering Committee meeting of the Digital Transformation Centre Nigeria and the launch of the Women Venture Studio Innovation Hub. The announcement was made in a statement released by the EU on Sunday.

According to the EU, an additional €45 million will be provided to support the Federal Government’s 3 Million Technical Talent programme, known as 3MTT. The initiative, launched in 2023, aims to equip three million Nigerians with advanced digital skills in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software development.

Speaking during the meeting, Inga Stefanowicz, the EU’s Head of Section for Green and Digital Economy, underscored the need to ensure that the national digital conversation is inclusive. She said, “We do not want this Steering Committee to remain only in Abuja.” She added that, “That is why we have taken it across the country, from Lagos to Ibadan and now Kano. It is essential to recognise the digital transformation happening here in the North alongside progress in other regions of Nigeria.”

Stefanowicz noted that the project is part of a larger EU digital cooperation package worth €820 million. She confirmed that, “By 2025, a further €45 million will support ICT training under the 3MTT initiative, expand nationwide fibre connectivity, and advance digital public infrastructure.” She added, “It has been three years of project implementation. This was the first step. There is still progress ahead.”

Since its launch, the Digital Transformation Centre has trained and supported more than 5,300 Nigerians. This includes 2,060 women and 795 persons with disabilities who have gained digital skills, accessed startup support, and received entrepreneurship resources. The programme is also testing digital vouchers designed to help individuals and businesses access important technology tools. In addition, 40 startups and MSMEs have benefited from innovation support, while policy initiatives in four states are helping to reduce digital gender gaps.

Representing the Director-General of NITDA, Acting Director of Digital Literacy and Capacity Building, Ahmed Tambuwal, described the discussions as both constructive and strategic. He said, “We are here to review progress and chart the way ahead. We have identified gaps and aligned priorities. Inclusion remains a commitment. We want a digital economy that works for everyone, especially women and persons with disabilities.”

From the academic sector, Victor Odumiuwa of the NITDA IT Hub spoke on the positive developments within universities. He said, “Many startups have been supported, and many trainings have taken place. This is helping us scale innovation within Nigerian universities.”

Stakeholders outlined objectives for the next phase, including training an additional 5,800 young people, expanding green and digital skills programmes, strengthening ICT employability pathways, and scaling interventions such as mentorship, job integration, and digital vouchers.

Kwara Tech Conference Trains 2,000 Youths

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Kwara Tech Conference Trains 2,000 Youths

Over 2,000 youths have received training on how to use technology to build entrepreneurial ventures that can make them self-reliant and employers of labour. The training was part of a three-day conference held in Ilorin, tagged Kwara Build Tech Conference, Next Builders, Build Africa’s Future Through Local Innovation and Global Vision (KBTEC ’25).

Speaking at the closing of the conference, the lead organiser, Kamaldeen Kehinde, said the initiative was created to connect young people with better opportunities that can shape their future. He explained that the programme focused on teaching participants how to leverage technology infrastructure to solve emerging challenges and create sustainable solutions.

According to him, the initiative, conceived eight years ago, has trained over ten thousand participants. He added that the programme can also be used to address security challenges facing the country through collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

Kehinde said tools like CCTV cameras and robotics tracking can be deployed to help tackle insecurity in different communities. He noted that technology-driven solutions remain important for government agencies and private organisations working to improve safety.

In their separate remarks, the co-founders of the training programme, Ibraheem Zulkifil and Mohammed Yahay, said the goal of the initiative is to gather stakeholders to discuss how technology can be used to solve real problems in communities. They stated that after the training, youths and service providers would be better positioned to use technology to improve productivity in their various fields.

Some participants, including Product Designer Akanji Aishat and Software Engineer Daniel Olowoniyi, expressed satisfaction with the skills gained during the programme. They said artificial intelligence is now at the centre of many solutions and can be used to tackle both human and community problems.

Osun Governor Reaffirms Commitment to Technical and Vocational Education

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Osun Governor Reaffirms Commitment to Technical and Vocational Education

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on Saturday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening technical and vocational education across the state. The governor made this known at the 35th anniversary celebration of the Osun State Polytechnic Alumni Association in Osogbo, where he highlighted ongoing efforts to deepen collaborations between industry and academia.

According to him, the goal is to ensure graduates leave school with both certificates and the practical skills needed for employment and self-reliance.

At the ceremony, the alumni association honoured several prominent individuals, including the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Ajibola Basiru; the Executive Director of the Nigeria Ports Authority, Olalekan Badmus; and a former Deputy Chief Whip of the Osun State House of Assembly, Abidemi Ogunkanmi. Traditional rulers were also recognised, such as the Timi of Ede, Oba Munirudeen Lawal; the Eburu of Iba, Oba Adekunle Okunoye; a Chief Magistrate, Dr. Olusegun Ayilara; and other distinguished personalities within and outside the state.

The National President of the alumni association, Yakub Adebayo, said the group had continued to support one another, share opportunities, and uplift members. He noted that the association’s activities reflect the true spirit of its motto. He said, “Our alumni have excelled in various fields—from business and entrepreneurship to academia, the arts, and public service—and their accomplishments inspire us to strive for more.”

Governor Adeleke, represented by the Commissioner for Education, Dipo Eluwole, described the anniversary as a celebration of vision, growth, and impact. He said the future of the polytechnic must rest on the strong foundation laid over the last thirty-five years. He explained that the institution, founded to provide practical and industry-focused learning, had grown into what he called a “beacon of technical and vocational education,” producing thousands of skilled graduates who are contributing to national socio-economic development.

The governor praised the alumni association for what he described as its “unwavering support,” pointing to its role in infrastructure development, mentorship programmes, and the global promotion of the school’s reputation. He pledged continued government backing through improved funding, digital transformation, staff welfare, and enhanced autonomy to strengthen the institution’s competitiveness.

He added, “As we celebrate past achievements, the next phase must prioritise cutting-edge technology, research that solves real societal problems, global partnerships, and ethical leadership.”

FG Activates 1Gov ECMS to Drive Paperless Civil Service

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FG Activates 1Gov ECMS to Drive Paperless Civil Service

The Federal Government has taken another step in advancing its Nigeria First Policy as the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction officially activated the 1Government Cloud Enterprise Content Management System. The ministry became fully operational on the 1Gov ECMS platform during a brief ceremony at its headquarters in the Federal Secretariat, Abuja. This development is seen as a major boost to the government’s plan to modernise public service delivery, improve data protection and deepen Nigeria’s digital transformation.

According to a statement on Sunday, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard Doro, said the deployment of the platform aligns with the goals of the Nigeria First Policy and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. He explained that the policy places strong emphasis on efficiency, digitisation and improved public service systems. Doro added that the move to digitalise government operations and reduce inefficiencies is necessary to make public institutions more responsive to citizens.

He said, “This innovation aligns squarely with the Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly the administration’s vision to digitalise government processes, reduce inefficiencies and make public institutions more responsive to citizens’ needs. Today’s event marks a significant step forward in the ministry’s ongoing commitment to innovation, transparency and operational excellence in the delivery of humanitarian and poverty reduction services to Nigerians across all regions.”

Doro praised the Permanent Secretary, the technical team and development partners for their commitment, noting that their efforts reflect the kind of result-driven public service the government aims to build.

In her remarks, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Esther Walson-Jack, described the ministry’s switch to the 1Gov ECMS platform as a major milestone. She noted that the transition marks a major shift in how ministries operate, explaining that automated workflows, reduced dependence on paper and real-time collaboration will now become standard practice.

Walson-Jack encouraged other ministries, departments and agencies to join the system and commended Galaxy Backbone Limited for providing a shared digital infrastructure that supports the Nigeria First Policy. She further revealed that 19 ministries already operating on the 1Gov ECMS will no longer accept paper-based correspondence. She said, “This ministry, with its vital mission of supporting the vulnerable, is now embracing paperless processes, and I say this is a milestone.”

The Managing Director and CEO of Galaxy Backbone, Prof. Ibrahim Adeyanju, reaffirmed the agency’s role as the Federal Government’s digital infrastructure provider. According to the statement, he explained that the government has made significant investments in digital infrastructure, and the ongoing digitalisation push ensures these resources are fully utilised by public institutions. Adeyanju stated that the 1Government Cloud ensures confidential, sovereign and sensitive data remain within Nigeria and are protected under Nigerian laws.

He expressed confidence that with ongoing commitment across ministries, the Federal Government’s target of achieving a fully paperless civil service by December 31, 2025, is achievable.

During his technical presentation, the Programme Director of GBB 1Government Cloud, Wumi Oghoetuoma, welcomed the ministry to the platform. He said the onboarding shows the ministry is ready to adopt modern, secure and efficient digital tools. He added that the shift would “boost workflow automation, improve data security, and enhance coordinated service delivery.”

Kebbi Orders Closure of Basic and Secondary Schools Until Further Notice

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Kebbi Orders Closure of Basic and Secondary Schools Until Further Notice

Kebbi State has announced the immediate closure of all basic and secondary schools across the state following ongoing security assessments. The directive, issued on 23rd November 2025, affects both public and private schools. According to the circular from the Ministry for Basic and Secondary Education, the decision was approved by the Honourable Commissioner to prioritize the safety of students and staff.

The circular stated that “all schools (Basic and Secondary, Public and Private) be closed starting from Monday, 24th of November, 2025, until further notice.” It added that every school must communicate the directive to parents and guardians without delay. The ministry emphasized the need for total compliance, noting that Principals, Head Teachers, and Proprietors are expected to follow the instructions fully.

The statement acknowledged the disruption the sudden closure may cause, saying, “We regret any inconvenience this sudden closure may cause, and we pray that the Almighty God brings peace and security to our state soon.” The ministry also extended the warm regards of the Honourable Commissioner to all education stakeholders.

The circular was signed by Haj. Hauwa Muhammad, Deputy Director ICT, on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner, urging continued cooperation as the state works toward restoring safety and stability.

News Update:

The Ministry has received several inquiries from the public regarding the directive on school closure, and wishes to clarify that all Primary Schools in Metropolitan areas, such as Argungu, Birnin Kebbi, and other relevant LGAs, are to continue academic activities as usual, unless a new directive is issued.

FG Warns Fish Farmers on Antibiotic Misuse

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FG Warns Fish Farmers on Antibiotic Misuse

The Federal Government has warned fish farmers and other players in the aquaculture sector to stop the misuse of antibiotics and adopt safer, evidence-based methods for preventing and controlling diseases in fish production. This call was made during an Awareness Creation and Sensitisation Meeting for Farmers and Value Chain Actors held in Karu, FCT Abuja, on Friday, November 21, 2025.

Delivering the opening remarks on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, Dr. Samuel Anzaku, said antimicrobial resistance is rising to dangerous levels across the world. According to him, the problem is already threatening the effective treatment of common infectious diseases. He stressed that misuse of antimicrobials remains one of the leading drivers of resistance, noting practices such as using drugs without prescription, over-prescription, and overuse.

Represented by the Director of Veterinary Public Health and Epidemiology, Dr. George Uzoaga, the CVON explained that antimicrobials are substances meant to kill or slow down harmful microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and parasites. He added that these drugs are classified based on the type of pathogens they target.

Speaking on the consequences of antimicrobial resistance, Anzaku said it can lead to longer periods of illness even with treatment, higher treatment costs or treatment failure, death, reduced livestock productivity, loss of livelihoods, and greater financial pressure on farmers, especially because newer drugs are usually more expensive.

He encouraged fish farmers to support both national and global efforts to reduce AMR before it turns into another pandemic, saying the risk is real if strong action is not taken.

In his welcome remarks, the National President of Aquatic Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Benedict O. Muyiwa, praised the Ministry for organising the sensitisation programme. He said it gives young fish farmers important knowledge about AMR drivers and highlights the need to seek expert guidance for proper antibiotic use and good farm management practices.

Investing in Women Is Key to Societal Progress, Minister Says

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Investing in Women Is Key to Societal Progress, Minister Says

The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, on Saturday in Abuja said that investing in women remains one of the most important drivers of societal progress. She made the remark at the launch of a book titled From Margin to Mainstream, Volume 2: Towards Inclusive Governance, written by Nikky Onyeri, a Nigerian cancer treatment advocate. The event also doubled as the author’s 60th birthday celebration and the official unveiling of her new organisation, Rise Up Women Initiative.

Mrs Sulaiman-Ibrahim said she is committed to supporting any initiative that promotes development for Nigerian women. She explained that the Renewed Hope Women Agenda under President Bola Tinubu aims to create opportunities that help women reach their full potential. Commending the author, she said the book recognises the role women play in society, adding, “I will continue to project women’s plight to the world.”

The minister highlighted several programmes already running under the ministry. She said the Happy Woman App connects women to resources, mentorship, and opportunities for both personal and professional growth across the country. She added that the Women and Youth Value Enhancement initiative promotes entrepreneurship, vocational training, and access to finance to help women and young people build sustainable livelihoods.

According to her, the Women’s Resource and Innovation Centre serves as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and support for women-led businesses in different sectors. She also explained that the Renewed Hope Social Impact Interventions deliver targeted support to every local government area to ensure women benefit from inclusive governance and development efforts. “These efforts are guided by President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on inclusive governance, economic empowerment, and social development,” she said. She added that it is time to amplify the voices of marginalised groups who have long been overlooked.

Earlier, Asabe Vilita-Bashir, director-general of the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development and the book reviewer, praised Ms Onyeri for documenting the transformative journey of Nigerian women. She said the book aligns with the mission of the current administration, noting, “By the time you read through all pages of the book, chapter by chapter, you will appreciate the writer because it is in line with the core mission of this administration for women.”

She added that the administration has introduced many programmes that recognise women as key contributors to national development and has created space for them to thrive.

Also speaking, the chairman of the occasion, Mohammed Ndarani-Mohammed (SAN), described the book as a moment of intellectual triumph and said it serves as a practical tool to equip women with knowledge, skills, and confidence.

Ms Onyeri, who founded the Princess Nikky Breast Cancer Foundation, said the event was also a thanksgiving for surviving breast cancer three decades ago after being given six months to live.

She said the programme featured health screenings and empowerment sessions for vulnerable women and thanked President Tinubu for increasing women’s representation in governance. She added that plans are underway to empower more women to start businesses next year and noted her intention to advance her political career to support women further.

Abia Governor Launches Aba Film Project, Plans Entertainment Village

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Abia Governor Launches Aba Film Project, Plans Entertainment Village

Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has announced a major plan to establish an entertainment village in the State as part of efforts to restore Aba’s long-standing reputation as the cradle of entertainment in Nigeria. The Governor made the announcement on Saturday, November 22nd, at the Aba Town Hall during the official flag-off of the Aba Made Film Project titled The Chronicles of Enyimba City.

Speaking at the event, Governor Otti said his administration is set to transform Abia into a strong centre for creative enterprise, entertainment, and modern infrastructure. He also revealed plans for two new five-star hotels, one to be built in Aba and the other in Umuahia, as part of the broader vision to improve hospitality, tourism, and economic activities across the State.

While reminding the audience that he had initially promised to set up an entertainment village as part of his manifesto, the Governor stated that the idea remains active. He explained that the State Government is about to commence the Abia State Stadium Village, which will include a games village and an entertainment village. According to him, the initial plan was for the village to be in Umuahia, but the final location may still be reviewed.

“So, the only issue now is that we are about starting the Abia State Stadium Village. It’s a village in itself. It does have a games village and an entertainment village. It is meant to be in Umuahia, so, we’ll have to discuss whether we want it in Aba. We can detach it from the Stadium City and then bring it to Aba. I want the best for this industry,” Governor Otti said.

The Governor praised the resilience of the entertainment industry and highlighted Aba’s long history as a centre of creativity and commerce for Nollywood. He recalled the early days of the industry when Aba played a key role in film distribution and production. “I want to say that this (Aba) is actually the cradle of entertainment. The Nollywood you hear about today started right here in Aba. If you are old enough, you will remember the days of Pound Road, Upper Iweka, and then Nnamdi Azikiwe,” he stated.

Governor Otti reaffirmed the State Government’s support for the Aba Made Film Project and assured the production team that the administration would stand by them until the project is completed. He also listed key infrastructural and social development projects his government is pursuing, including urban renewal, improved security, free education, better healthcare, and a modern public transport system powered partly by electric vehicles.

He noted that Abia was recently recognised as the State with the most affordable intra-city transport system in Nigeria. “Our government doesn’t share money but will only use the money accruing to the State to work for the people,” he said. He disclosed that before the end of the month, Radisson Blu would begin the reconstruction of Enyimba Hotel into a five-star hotel and international convention centre. He further announced that in early 2026, another five-star hotel project would commence in Umuahia to replace the current Abia Hotel.

In their goodwill messages, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, represented by Mrs Uwaoma Olewengwa; the Speaker of the Abia House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa; and the Member representing Isialangwa North/South Federal Constituency, Hon. Ginger Obinna Onwusibe, applauded the producers of the Aba Made Film Project. They said the initiative supports the project-driven administration of Governor Otti and noted that the Governor has positively changed the story of the State through focused development.

Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Mr Matthew Ekwuribe, described the film project as a catalyst capable of returning Aba to its former glory. He expressed optimism that the project would showcase the rich cultural and economic heritage of Enyimba City to the world. He also thanked the Governor for his commitment to expanding the creative economy.

Delivering a keynote address titled Elevating Abia’s Image Through Cinematic Excellence, veteran Nollywood actor Bob-Manuel Udokwu said the Aba Film Project is a cultural, commercial, and creative initiative that goes beyond filmmaking. He stated that the project has the potential to boost Abia’s reputation, attract investments, stimulate growth, and reposition the South-East region. Udokwu commended Governor Otti’s vision and said the combined expertise of the production team would help build a world-class film village that would serve as a lasting cultural and economic asset.

Speaking on behalf of Nollywood artistes, Chinedu Ikedieze (Aki) praised the Governor’s infrastructure achievements and expressed gratitude for his support for the industry and his dedication to uplifting the State.

The event featured a presentation of the synopsis of The Chronicles of Aba by the Project’s Technical Director, Dr Prospect Nlemchukwu, and was attended by top government officials and renowned Nollywood figures including Nkeiru Sylvanus, Joyce Kalu, Uche Elendu, and others.

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