Home Blog Page 296

FG Postpones NAFEST 2025 Over National Insecurity Concerns

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
FG Postpones NAFEST 2025 Over National Insecurity Concerns

The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy has announced the postponement of the 2025 National Festival of Arts and Culture, which was earlier scheduled to begin on Saturday, 21st November 2025 in Enugu State. According to the ministry, this decision was reached after a careful review of the national mood and the recent insecurity incidents affecting different parts of the country.

The Honourable Minister, Hannatu Musa Musawa, Esq., approved the postponement in consultation with key stakeholders, stating that it was done in solidarity with affected families and communities and out of respect for the lives lost.

The ministry explained that NAFEST has always been a major tool for nation-building, helping to strengthen social cohesion and providing a platform for cultural diplomacy. It described the festival as one of the few national events capable of projecting a true picture of Nigeria, noting that it showcases unity, inclusiveness, hospitality, and national confidence.

With more than 28 states already present in Enugu to prepare for the event, the 2025 edition was set to send a strong message that the country remains open, resilient, and united. However, the Federal Government said proceeding with the festival at a time when many citizens are grieving would not reflect the values of empathy and national sensitivity. The statement added that it is more responsible to postpone the event than to continue with it during a difficult national moment.

The ministry confirmed that a new date for NAFEST 2025 will be announced after further consultations with state governments, cultural institutions, and security agencies to ensure the festival holds in an atmosphere suitable for national celebration. It expressed appreciation to participating states, cultural troupes, partners, and the Nigerian public for their understanding and support.

The ministry also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity and stated that it looks forward to delivering a stronger and more unifying festival when the time is right.

Advertisement

FG Denies Circular Claiming Nationwide Closure of Schools

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
FG Denies Circular Claiming Nationwide Closure of Schools

The Federal Ministry of Education has released a public notice addressing a false message that circulated across social media on Friday. The message claimed that schools nationwide had been directed to close from 24 November 2025. In a statement on Saturday, dated 22 November 2025, the ministry clearly stated that the information is fake, misleading and did not come from the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Education, any State Ministry of Education or any recognised security agency. The ministry said the public should disregard the update and avoid sharing it.

According to the statement, members of the public are urged to rely only on verified updates issued through official channels. These channels include the Federal Government, the Federal Ministry of Education, State Governments and State Ministries of Education, as well as recognised security agencies.

The ministry added that any message, advisory or announcement from unverified platforms should be ignored. It further encouraged the public to always confirm the authenticity of information before spreading it to help reduce misinformation online. The statement was signed by Boriowo Folasade, Director of Press and Public Relations.

This update follows a circular that circulated on Friday, claiming that the federal government had ordered the immediate closure of 47 Federal Unity Colleges. The circular referenced security concerns and stated that the Honourable Minister of Education had approved the closure of the listed schools. It also instructed principals of the affected colleges to comply fully. The document read: “Sequel to the recent security challenges in some parts of the country and the need to prevent any security breaches, the Honourable Minister of Education has approved the immediate closure of the listed Federal Unity Colleges.”

Nigeria Startup News reported that it was already skeptical about the circular, especially because it carried December 21st instead of November. Despite this, several major media outlets picked up the report before the official clarification was issued.

EU Launches €30m Culture Partnership to Support Nigerian Creatives

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
EU Launches €30m Culture Partnership to Support Nigerian Creatives

The European Union has launched the Africa–Europe Partnerships for Culture Nigeria Cluster as part of its plan to empower artists, expand creative networks, and strengthen cultural cooperation between Africa and Europe. The project, valued at €30 million and funded by the EU, is implemented by Goethe-Institut to support Nigerian artists, cultural organisations, and creative professionals across Sub-Saharan Africa and Europe. The programme aims to boost collaboration, promote cultural exchange, and encourage co-creation across continents.

Speaking at the official launch in Lagos State, Gautier Mignot, EU ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, said culture remains central to sustainable development, social cohesion, and inclusive growth. He stated, “We see culture as a driver of mutual understanding, creative innovation, and economic opportunity.” Mignot emphasised that the launch in Nigeria shows the EU’s strong commitment to cultural cooperation between Africa and Europe. According to him, “Culture is part and parcel of our Global Gateway strategy, aiming at connecting people and creating opportunities and sustainable shared prosperity.”

He added that the EU is committed to strengthening partnerships that amplify African voices and promote cultural diversity. He said, “Our goal is to create spaces where voices can be heard, where creative talents can grow without limits and where stories that often remain unseen and forgotten can find itself in the global community.”

Highlighting some EU-funded cultural programmes in Africa, Mignot explained that AEPC is one of several cultural initiatives. He said, “Let me just mention two other EU-funded cultural programmes in Africa: Strengthening African-European Museum partnerships, a €20 million programme to support collaborative projects between African and European museums, and Creative Africa, a €15 million upcoming project that will support collaboration between the two Audiovisual ecosystems.” He also noted that the EU supports cultural policy strengthening in Nigeria and other countries, in addition to smaller supports such as the Festival of Illustrators in Lagos and the Eastern Nigeria Film Festival in Enugu.

Reaffirming the EU’s dedication to assisting Nigerian creatives, Mignot said the goal is to ensure that artists from all parts of Nigeria can thrive internationally. “Together, we can ensure that no creative is left behind, and that talent from West, East, South and North Nigeria can thrive on international stages. We just have to spread the voice and encourage as many organisations and creators to check if they are eligible, build or finalise strong projects and apply,” he said.

Nadine Siegert, director of the Goethe-Institut Nigeria, described the launch as a major milestone for cultural exchange and innovation between Africa and Europe. She said Nigeria’s creative sector is increasingly gaining global recognition. “Through initiatives like the AEPC, we are not only showcasing Nigeria’s talent internationally but also creating pathways for collaboration, learning, and sustainable development within the cultural industry,” she stated.

Siegert said Goethe-Institut is committed to supporting Nigeria’s creative economy through collaboration, capacity building, and improved visibility for creators. She noted that the organisation aims to make cultural opportunities accessible to everyone by supporting creative hubs, digital platforms, and funding mechanisms. According to her, these efforts will help bridge gaps in resources and visibility, empowering diverse artists and cultural professionals.

Ayomide Adeagbo, Special Assistant to the President on Art, Culture and Creative Economy, said the Nigerian government remains committed to growing international creative partnerships. He explained that Nigeria encourages co-production, joint projects, and creative partnerships that link the country with other regions. Adeagbo said such exchanges help Nigerian stories reach global audiences through film, music, fashion, photography, and other creative sectors.

He added that the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy is expanding cultural initiatives and strengthening cultural diplomacy under Minister Hannatu Musawa. Adeagbo said the Nigerian creative economy needs strong collaboration and investment to grow. He stated that the government supports the AEPC because its vision aligns with national priorities. “It amplifies the opportunities we are determined to create for Nigerians. This platform opens doors for collaboration, capacity building and cultural exchange between Africa and Europe. We want creatives to see themselves not just as beneficiaries of policy but as partners in innovation and development so that together we can unlock the full potential of the sector,” he said.

Officials at the event noted that the AEPC Nigeria Cluster will operate through open calls, capacity development programmes, and festival partnerships that encourage long-term cooperation. Stakeholders explained that Nigerian creatives working in areas such as theatre, visual arts, digital media, literature, and performance will have increased access to funding and international visibility. They added that the programme will also strengthen cultural institutions by supporting research, documentation, and cross-border projects that build stronger regional connections. Experts stressed that cultural exchange remains essential for shaping shared identities and supporting economic growth for young professionals in the creative sector.

Across West Africa, the AEPC promotes cooperation among Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo and the EU. The project is expected to train 250 professionals, support 450 artists, and connect 48 festivals. It also aims to strengthen West Africa–EU cultural relations for long-term social and economic benefits. These efforts promise wider opportunities ahead.

NDE RHEI 2 Participants to Upload Bank Details in All States

Paulinus Sunday
-
5
NDE RHEI 2 Participants to Upload Bank Details in All States

The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has issued a memo directing state coordinators to notify all trained participants under the second phase of the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative to upload their account details.

According to the memo obtained by Nigeria Startup News dated 21st November 2025 from the RHEI Implementation Committee, participants are to submit their information on the NDE portal using their registration ID starting from 10 a.m. on 22nd November 2025.

The memo stated, “Please treat as urgent and act accordingly.” It was signed by Edmund Onwuliri and Lanre-Ogun Fowshake Omobolanle, who both confirmed the directive. The notice applies to all states and must be implemented without delay.

Abia Government Extends 2025 Teachers Recruitment Deadline

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
Abia Government Extends 2025 Teachers Recruitment Deadline

The Abia State Government has issued a new update on the ongoing teachers’ recruitment for 2025. In a statement signed by Dr. Uzoamaka Amah-Mbah, Chairman of the Recruitment Committee, the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MOBSE) announced an extension of the online application deadline. According to the release dated 21 November 2023, the application window will now remain open until midnight on Friday, 28 November 2025. The ministry explained that the extension is meant to “make up for the downtime caused by the migration from the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education recruitment portal to the State Central Recruitment Portal.”

The statement also confirmed that previous applicants do not need to reapply. It noted that “applicants who had applied on the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education recruitment portal have been migrated to the State Central Recruitment Portal, and new login credentials have been issued to them.” This means their earlier submissions remain valid.

For new applicants, the state advised that the official portal can be accessed through https://recruitment.abiastate.gov.ng/jobs/mbse. The ministry urged all applicants to carefully review their details before the final closure of the portal, warning that “false information could lead to disqualification.”

The notice came from the Office of the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education in Umuahia.

NTDA Launches Naija Flavour 2025 for Wealth Creation and SME Growth

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
NTDA Launches Naija Flavour 2025 for Wealth Creation and SME Growth

The Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority, Olayiwola Awakan, has announced that the 2025 edition of Naija Flavour… Destination December will play a major role in boosting wealth creation, supporting small businesses, strengthening the creative economy, and driving national development. The event is scheduled to take place on December 13, 2025, and will present a colourful marketplace filled with culture, food, fashion, games, live theatre, and music. According to the organisers, the platform is designed to help SMEs gain visibility, attract more customers, and build new partnerships in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic goals under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

During the launch in Abuja on Friday, Awakan described Naija Flavour as a strategic cultural tourism initiative that captures Nigeria’s identity, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit for economic benefit. He stated, “Naija Flavour has been conceptualised to generate wealth, empower local businesses, strengthen our creative economy, and build a tourism experience that sustains itself and stimulates national growth.”

Awakan also highlighted Nigeria’s globally celebrated Detty December culture, noting that it has grown into a strong attraction for visitors who come to experience the country’s music, food, nightlife, and vibrant social energy. He explained that NTDA recognised an opportunity to shape this natural trend into a structured tourism product. He said, “Nigeria is not just a country; we are a global vibe. So, we asked ourselves: how do we package that vibe into a tourism experience that drives jobs, revenue, and international attention? Naija Flavour is our answer.”

As part of efforts to promote cultural tourism, NTDA also introduced a theatrical production titled Echoes of the Drums. The production celebrates unity, ecotourism, folklore, and Nigeria’s ancestral heritage. It was written by Ola Awakan and directed by Isioma Williams, and it will serve as a major highlight for cultural storytelling during the event.

Awakan expressed gratitude to several institutional partners, including The Monoliza Abuja, NIHOTOUR, the National Troupe of Nigeria, CBAAC, NFVCB, and GOTHAD, acknowledging their roles in shaping the initiative. He encouraged media organisations, corporate bodies, SMEs, and creative entrepreneurs to support the movement and explore the opportunities Naija Flavour aims to create.

“Let the flavours travel. Let the world know that Nigeria is shaping tourism with innovation, entertainment, and economic impact,” he said. Calling on Nigerians and international visitors to mark their calendars, he added, “Naija Flavour is a celebration of our diversity, creativity, and innovation. Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, we will continue to build a tourism industry that generates income, sustains jobs, and promotes national pride. Let the drums speak. Let the flavours rise. Let Nigeria shine.”

University of Abuja Announces Recruitment for Academic and Non-Teaching Staff

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
University of Abuja Announces Recruitment for Academic and Non-Teaching Staff

The University of Abuja, now known as Yakubu Gowon University, Abuja, has announced new openings for academic and non-teaching staff through an internal and external advertisement released by the Office of the Registrar. According to the notice, “applications are hereby invited from suitably qualified candidates to fill the following positions at the University of Abuja,” and the advertisement will run for six weeks from the date of publication.

The institution listed several academic roles such as Professor, Associate Professor, Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I and II, Assistant Lecturer and Graduate Assistant across various faculties including Health Sciences, Management and Allied Sciences, Science, Communication and Media Studies, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Agriculture, Law, Arts, Engineering, Social Sciences and Veterinary Medicine.

The qualifications required for these roles were clearly outlined. For example, applicants for Graduate Assistant must have a first degree with at least Second Class Upper, while Assistant Lecturers need a master’s degree or relevant professional degrees. Positions from Lecturer II upward require a PhD or its equivalent, with publications and years of teaching experience.

The notice stated that “a candidate who has never taught in any University before cannot be appointed directly to the rank of a Professor or Associate Professor,” and it added that applicants for senior positions must show academic leadership and be registered with their professional bodies.

Non-teaching positions announced include Academic Technologist, Data Analyst, Accountant, Legal Officer, System Analyst, Network Engineer, Nursing Officer, Civil Engineer, Architect, Higher Executive Officer, Confidential Secretary, Senior Secretariat Assistant, Higher Technical Officer and Clerical Officer. Each role carries specific requirements, ranging from HND and BSc qualifications to professional registrations, typing speed, or engineering certifications depending on the position.

Candidates are required to apply through the university recruitment portal and submit their curriculum vitae with full personal details, education history, qualifications, work experience and publications. The advertisement listed the order in which these details must appear and emphasized that “computer literacy is required for all positions.” Applicants must also provide three referees and request them to send reports directly to the Registrar through the official email.

The university noted that persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply and stated that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. All applications are to be addressed to the Registrar, P.M.B. 117, Abuja. The notice was signed by Sambo Mohammed, MNIM, MANUPA, ACIPM, Acting Registrar.

The application portal is https://recruitment.uniabuja.edu.ng.

Union Bank Backs Women Entrepreneurs at 2025 WIMBIZ Conference

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
Union Bank Backs Women Entrepreneurs at 2025 WIMBIZ Conference

Union Bank of Nigeria has strengthened its role as a major partner in promoting economic growth and gender equity by taking a prominent position at the 2025 WIMBIZ Annual Conference in Lagos. The bank’s involvement reaffirmed its commitment to national development and its continued support for initiatives that empower women across the country.

The conference, organised under the theme “O.W.N: Own. Walk. Nurture,” served as a major gathering point for advancing female leadership and commerce. It encouraged women to lead confidently, grow their ventures and build long-term impact. The atmosphere was filled with determination as thousands of women came together with a shared vision to reshape conversations around leadership and equity.

Union Bank demonstrated its commitment through its sponsorship of the Business Pitch Competition. Through its dedicated women-focused platform, alpher, the bank supported entrepreneurs by providing funding that helps transform ideas into real businesses. This support aligns with the bank’s belief that empowering women economically contributes to building a stronger and more resilient nation. By offering critical capital through alpher, Union Bank helped turn a wide range of business concepts into functional enterprises.

The alpher platform was promoted as a lifestyle ecosystem designed to help women “O.W.N” their lives by granting access to collateral-free loans needed for business growth, while also connecting them to mentorship networks and capacity-building programmes. The platform additionally supports women’s wellness by offering benefits such as discounted healthcare, emphasising personal well-being alongside business development.

Olufunmilola Aluko, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer of the bank, highlighted the purpose behind the partnership. She stated that the collaboration with WIMBIZ is a clear reflection of the bank’s conviction that for Nigeria to thrive, women must be empowered to fully Own, Walk and Nurture their potential. Aluko explained that each time the bank funds a pitch or provides the alpher platform, it is giving women the opportunity to own their stories and walk confidently in a competitive market.

She added that Union Bank remains committed to helping women nurture their businesses into institutions capable of driving the national economy, ensuring that every step they take contributes to a more prosperous future for themselves and the country.

The event brought together top female leaders within Union Bank, including the Chief Talent Officer, department heads and several employees across different units. The bank’s efforts closely align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially those focused on gender equality, economic growth and global partnerships.

Held at Eko Hotel and Suites, the conference drew thousands of women leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals, and featured remarks from Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and economist Arunma Oteh.

Circular Claims Immediate Closure of 47 Federal Unity Colleges

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
Circular Claims Immediate Closure of 47 Federal Unity Colleges

The Federal Ministry of Education has come under public attention after a circular surfaced online claiming that forty-seven Federal Unity Colleges have been ordered to shut down immediately. The document, dated 21 December 2025, came from the Office of the Director of the Senior Secondary Education Department and carried the reference number FME/DSSE/GM/S.160/C.II. Many people were confused about the date, especially since the circular began circulating in November, raising questions about its authenticity.

The circular was addressed to all principals of Federal Unity Colleges and stated that the Honourable Minister of Education had approved the immediate closure of the listed schools. It explained that the decision followed recent security concerns across different parts of the country. The circular read, “Sequel to the recent security challenges in some parts of the country and the need to prevent any security breaches, the Honourable Minister of Education has approved the immediate closure of the listed Federal Unity Colleges (FUCs) with immediate effect.”

It further instructed principals to comply fully with the directive. The notice ended with, “Please, accept the warm regards of the Honourable Minister,” and was signed by Ba Hajia Binta Abdulkadir, Director of Senior Secondary Education, on behalf of the minister.

The circular listed 47 schools, including FGGC Minjibir, FTC Ganduje, FGGC Zaria, FTC Kafanchan, FGGC Bakori, FTC Dayi, FGC Daura, FGGC Tambuwal, FSC Sokoto, FTC Wurno, FGC Gusau, FGC Anka, FGGC Gwandu, FGC Birnin Yauri, FTC Zuru, FGGC Kazaure, FGC Kiyawa, FTC Hadeja, FGGC Bida, FGC New-Bussa, FTC Kuta-Shiroro, FGA Suleja, FGC Ilorin, FGGC Omuaran, FTC Gwanara, FGC Ugwolawo, FGGC Kabba, FTC Ogugu, FGGC Bwari, FGC Rubochi, FGGC Abaji, FGGC Kazaure, FGC Kiyawa, FTC Hadejia, FGGC Potiskum, FGC Buni Yadi, FTC Gashua, FTC Michika, FGC Ganye, FGC Azare, FTC Misau, FGGC Bajoga, FGC Billiri, FTC Zambuk, FTC Ikare Akoko, FTC Ijebu-Imusin and FTC Ushi Ekiti.

NDE Katsina Orders RHEI 2 Beneficiaries to Upload Bank Details

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
NDE Katsina Orders RHEI 2 Beneficiaries to Upload Bank Details

The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) in Katsina State has announced that participants trained under the Second Phase of the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative (RHEI) will begin uploading their bank account details on 22nd November 2025.

According to the notice, the process will start by 10:00 a.m. and must be done through the NDE Portal using each beneficiary’s Registration ID. The agency explained that this step is necessary to ensure smooth processing and prepare participants for the next stage of engagement.

All trained beneficiaries are required to log in to the NDE registration portal at https://nderegistrationportal.ngand upload their account details using their Registration ID.

The statement advised, “All trained beneficiaries are required to log in to the NDE Portal and upload their account details.” It further urged participants across Katsina State to comply without delay. For inquiries, the public is directed to contact the NDE Katsina State Office, signed by Nura Nasiru.

1...295296297...673Page 296 of 673