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Pan-African Bank Opens Entry Level Recruitment in Northern States

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The entry level recruitment programme for a pan-African bank has opened for young graduates in Kogi, Benue, Gombe, Yobe, and Jigawa. According to the organisers, applicants must hold a minimum of second class lower, possess a university degree, be not more than 25 years old, and be “young, energetic, and vibrant.”

Candidates must have completed NYSC. Applicants should first send their CV to leapsresource@gmail.com before submitting the official form through the provided form Link.

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UK–Nigeria Trade Mission Opens to Boost Women in Export Trade

Nigeria’s efforts to increase women’s participation in international trade gained new momentum on Tuesday as the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, working with the United Kingdom and the International Trade Centre, launched the UK–Nigeria Trade Mission in Abuja. The programme, designed to support economic development and expand non-oil revenue, brings together exporters, UK importers, investors, and trade development stakeholders to create stronger pathways for women-led micro, small, and medium enterprises seeking access to high-value export markets.

Speaking during the opening session, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, restated the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting women-owned businesses under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. She said women remain central to Nigeria’s economic growth and that improving their access to global markets is essential to achieving long-term diversification and increasing foreign exchange earnings. According to her, targeted export support initiatives over the past year have already delivered notable progress.

Oduwole announced that 146 women-led businesses have benefited from the WTO and ITC Women Exporters in the Digital Economy Fund, a programme designed to help female entrepreneurs adopt digital tools and improve their online presence. She said, “These women are now better equipped, better informed, and better positioned to enter high-value export markets.” She added that the government’s long-term vision is to diversify the economy, strengthen SMEs, encourage international investment, and position Nigeria as a leading player in global non-oil exports.

The minister also referred to a recent breakthrough in UK–Nigeria trade relations. She explained that in October, the United Kingdom granted Nigeria tariff relief on almost 3,000 product lines under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme. She described the development as a major advantage for Nigerian exporters, particularly women-led MSMEs, noting that it will reduce market entry costs and boost competitiveness in one of the world’s strongest markets.

Oduwole stressed that the UK–Nigeria Trade Mission is a practical platform that creates direct benefits for Nigerian businesses. She highlighted three key opportunities emerging from the three-day event: improving real-time market access, strengthening partnerships between Nigerian exporters and UK importers, and boosting the global visibility of Nigerian brands. She said, “When Nigerian brands are seen, they are valued. And when valued, they attract investment,” urging women entrepreneurs to take full advantage of the mission.

In her welcome remarks, the Executive Director and CEO of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, Mrs Nonye Ayeni, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to expanding Nigeria’s participation in global non-oil markets. She described the trade mission as “a celebration of shared values, mutual economic aspirations, and a commitment to inclusive and sustainable trade.” She said the SheTrades Nigeria Hub, implemented by NEPC in partnership with the ITC and supported by the UK Government, has played a vital role in strengthening the capacity of women entrepreneurs.

Ayeni explained that through the SheTrades Commonwealth+ Programme, many women-led businesses in Nigeria have gained access to new markets, improved product standards, and enhanced their readiness for exporting. She also highlighted NEPC’s ongoing capacity-building projects, including training on export procedures, packaging, branding, and digital commerce. She revealed that under the council’s Go Global, Go Certification project, more than 400 MSMEs have been supported to secure internationally recognised certifications such as HACCP, FDA, HALAL and ISO 22000, with women making up 80 per cent of the beneficiaries. She said, “These certifications open doors to global markets and ensure our products meet international standards.”

Ayeni encouraged UK investors and importers to explore Nigerian products, noting that the non-oil export sector holds significant untapped potential. The UK–Nigeria Trade Mission continues through Thursday with exhibitions, B2B meetings, and sector-focused workshops for exporters in agribusiness, beauty and wellness, and processed foods.

FG Opens Applications for National Health Fellows Programme

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The Federal Government has announced that qualified young Nigerians can now apply for the next cohort of the National Health Fellows Programme, a nationwide initiative designed to strengthen primary healthcare and support community-level health interventions. The programme was set up to close gaps in Nigeria’s healthcare delivery by training and deploying young professionals who will work directly in local communities to improve health outcomes. This move aligns with public health jobs in Nigeria, government healthcare training, and youth empowerment opportunities.

Backed by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the initiative targets Nigerians between 25 and 35 years old with degrees in health sciences, social sciences, and related fields. Fellows receive structured training, mentorship, and practical field placements across all 774 local government areas. Through this hands-on model, participants support local health systems, promote healthier communities, and contribute to the government’s plan to strengthen the healthcare workforce.

Speaking on the programme’s impact, the Honourable Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, said, “This groundbreaking initiative is set to develop a pipeline of healthcare leaders through strategic capacity building, professional development and a capstone field engagement.” He noted that the programme remains a vital part of national efforts to reduce preventable diseases and boost primary healthcare nationwide.

With the application deadline approaching, the National Health Fellows Programme is calling on eligible candidates across the country to submit their applications. Interested applicants are directed to visit the official website at healthfellows.ng/apply and complete their submissions before 30th November 2025. The programme continues to attract high interest due to its focus on healthcare career development and federal government youth training opportunities.

The National Health Fellows initiative brings together young professionals from health, information technology, social sciences, and other related fields. Selected fellows will undergo extensive mentorship, leadership exposure, and training built around best practices within Nigeria’s health system. The primary aim is to develop a cadre of skilled and motivated leaders capable of driving innovation and meaningful change across the health sector.

FG Begins Fresh Recruitment for National Health Fellows

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The Federal Government has announced the start of a new mass recruitment exercise for National Health Fellows, expanding the programme after successfully deploying 774 fellows earlier in the year to Primary Health Centres across the country. The update marks a major step in the government’s plan to strengthen primary healthcare delivery, improve transparency and support new infrastructure projects in communities.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, said the expansion is driven by the visible progress made so far. He explained that the fellows have played an important role in improving accountability in health facilities and supporting the government’s wider health sector reforms. According to him, their work has already started contributing to better service delivery in local communities and boosting confidence in public health systems.

President Bola Tinubu had earlier confirmed automatic employment for the first set of fellows when the programme was launched in March. Speaking at the launch event at the State House Conference Centre, he told the participants, “You are hired,” showing the administration’s commitment to creating new opportunities for young people and improving healthcare access nationwide.

Pate, in a message shared on his X handle on Monday, said, “Earlier this year, under the visionary leadership of His Excellency President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, we launched the National Health Fellows Program NHFP, a bold step towards building the next generation of healthcare leaders in Nigeria.”

He noted that more than 360,000 people applied for the first round, with only 774 young Nigerians selected to serve across all Local Government Areas.

He announced that applications for the second cohort will open on 1 November 2025 and close on 30 November. He encouraged young Nigerians from different fields to apply, adding, “For details of the application process, visit healthfellows.ng.”

During the launch of the first cohort, Pate explained that the fellows are expected to reinforce accountability in PHCs and act as oversight officers for the planned construction of 8,800 new primary healthcare facilities across the country. Their role, he said, “Is crucial in ensuring the fiduciary integrity and operational excellence of each facility within their domains of responsibility.”

He added that there will be a state-level multi-screening exercise in every Local Government Area to select the next group of fellows. Successful applicants will help monitor the new healthcare projects, which aim to raise the total number of PHCs to 17,618 by 2027. The programme also supports the government’s goal of reducing unemployment while improving essential health services.

Since 2023, the government has disbursed more than ₦100 billion to PHCs nationwide under the revitalised Basic Health Care Provision Fund. This includes ₦50 billion released in the first quarter of 2025 and ₦32.9 billion approved in October 2025 for infrastructure, essential medicines and operations.

Describing the initiative, Pate said, “This is a Nigerian renaissance in full motion and in real time,” urging qualified Nigerians to apply once the portal opens.

FG backs EU N100m Hustle Reality Show for Northwest Youth Empowerment

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The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed strong support for the newly launched N100 million European Union funded initiative called The Hustle Reality Show, a project designed to boost youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and economic development across Katsina, Zamfara, and Sokoto States.

The endorsement came from the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, who was represented by Hajiya Amina Dauran, Director of Network and Social Mobilization. Speaking after the launch hosted by Search for Common Ground and attended by Nairametrics, the ministry described the initiative as a strategic intervention that offers financial inclusion opportunities and promotes peace building at a time when young people in the Northwest face limited economic options.

Olawande stated that the project aligns with the federal government’s national priority of building safer and more resilient communities for young people. She noted that the country continues to deal with violent extremism, social diversion, and unemployment challenges that heavily affect youths in Northern Nigeria.

According to her, the show introduces a creative model for peace and social cohesion by using media, community engagement, and strategic dialogue to change narratives. She congratulated all partners involved and encouraged sustained investment in initiatives that support job creation, business development, and digital skills for young Nigerians. The ministry emphasized that such programs help secure the socio economic future of the nation.

The Country Director for Search for Common Ground in Nigeria, About Karno Ouattara, explained that The Hustle Reality Show will bring together young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35 from the three target states to collaborate and develop solutions for real community problems. He described the platform as a space where innovation, teamwork, and business leadership can grow.

Ouattara revealed that participants will get training, mentorship, and access to up to N100 million seed capital if their business pitches are approved by judges and investors. He added that the project is taking place in Katsina, Zamfara, and Sokoto because the states are currently struggling with violent conflict and economic fragility.

Speaking at the event, the Ambassador of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, said the launch marks the start of an exciting journey focused on shifting young people away from conflict drivers and positioning them as agents of change.

He stated that The Hustle Reality Show supports EU priorities by bringing youths from different communities together, equipping them with entrepreneurial skills, and building networks that cross social and regional boundaries. Mignot stressed that the EU remains committed to strengthening youth empowerment in Nigeria because empowering young people contributes to national stability, job growth, and sustainable development.

The intervention arrives months after the North West Development Commission announced the opening of applications for the 2025 and 2026 Undergraduate and Postgraduate Foreign Scholarship Scheme targeted at exceptional students from the region. The Commission said the scholarship aims to promote academic excellence and strengthen human capital development in the Northwest.

Officials expressed belief that when young people thrive through access to education, business funding, and innovation platforms such as The Hustle Reality Show, societies become more resilient and development accelerates. Stakeholders at the launch said the initiative is expected to expand economic opportunities and inspire youths to pursue scalable business ideas that support long term growth.

Ogun Moves to Institutionalize Oko’wo Dapo as Women’s Trust Fund Policy

Ogun State Government has announced a major step to strengthen women’s economic empowerment by institutionalizing the State Women Empowerment Scheme, known as Oko’wo Dapo, as a State-backed Women’s Trust Fund Policy. The move was disclosed during the official flag-off of the NFWP Scale-Up phase held at Awujale Interregnum, Awujale’s Palace in Ijebu-Ode on Tuesday.

The initiative is designed to promote financial inclusion, business development, and long-term support for women across the State, aligning with wider economic growth and poverty reduction plans.

Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, explained that turning Oko’wo Dapo into a formal policy would ensure continuity, sustainability, and transparency. She said the goal is to keep women-focused initiatives active and impactful regardless of political changes. According to her, the policy is a strategic way to expand access to business opportunities, digital finance, skills development, and other essential resources that support women’s economic stability.

Adeleye highlighted that the initial success of the NFWP first phase influenced the expansion. The programme recorded significant results in the four pioneer LGAs: Ijebu North-East, Odeda, Yewa North, and Ikenne. She revealed that 3,792 Women Affinity Groups and 61 Livelihood Collectives or hubs had been established across these areas. These hubs now serve as centers for innovation, savings support, entrepreneurship training, and intergenerational learning, showing how structured community-driven initiatives can transform local economies and household incomes.

The Commissioner announced that the Scale-Up phase aims to enroll no fewer than 25,000 women in Ijebu-Ode alone. She encouraged traders, artisans, entrepreneurs, professionals, and women aged 18 and above to join the programme. She added that facilitators were selected from local communities to ensure proper guidance, accessibility, and a sense of ownership among participants.

She emphasized that institutionalizing Oko’wo Dapo alongside the NFWP Scale-Up places Ogun State at the forefront of women-centered development nationwide, helping to expand livelihood opportunities and promote inclusion across different economic sectors.

State Commissioner for Finance and Chief Economic Adviser, Dapo Okubadejo, who also chairs the Multisectoral Coordination Structure, stated that the Project Development Objective of the NFWP-SU fits perfectly with the administration’s economic vision. He said, “a society that invests in women invests in sustainable development, stronger households, and inclusive growth.”

He noted that the administration has consistently treated Women’s Economic Empowerment as a central pillar for removing social and economic barriers affecting women’s full participation in economic activities. Commending the State Project Coordinator, Mrs. Bolanle Fadairo, he added that the scale-up would expand the State’s capacity to reach more women, more households, and more communities.

Senior Social Development Specialist and Task-Team Leader for the Scale-Up Project, Micheal Ilesanmi, praised the State’s performance during the first phase. He noted that the World Bank designated Ogun as a leading State, which led to about sixteen States seeking peer-learning and capacity building.

Ilesanmi applauded Governor Abiodun and the Commissioners for Finance and Women Affairs, saying their guidance and coordination strengthened the entire project cycle. He expressed confidence that the State would exceed its targets in the scale-up phase.

Transcorp Opens Applications for Ignite 2026 Young Engineer Programme

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Transcorp has opened applications for the 2026 Transcorp Ignite Young Engineer Development Programme, aimed at attracting graduate engineers interested in the power sector. The company announced that the programme tagged “Transcorp Ignite 2026” will run from January to December 2026 in two phases.

According to Transcorp, the first phase is a three-week learning session, followed by rotational placements across its power plants to provide real-life experiences, work exposure and other learning interventions. The organisation stated that applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field with 0 to 1 year of experience.

Transcorp added that successful participants will gain hands-on training, mentorship, exposure and may be considered for permanent roles. The company encouraged interested candidates to visit the official webpage to submit applications before the deadline provided online.

Kosofe Cares Begins ₦25m First Phase of ₦100m Empowerment Scheme

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The Executive Chairman of Kosofe Local Government Area, Barr. Moyosore Ogunlewe, on Monday completed the first phase of the Kosofe Cares ₦100 Million Empowerment Scheme, releasing ₦25 million to 250 beneficiaries. The initiative, designed to support grassroots development and strengthen economic growth, reflects the policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES+ Agenda.

According to the Chairman, each beneficiary received direct financial support aimed at boosting small enterprises, enhancing self-reliance, and improving household income. He stated that the goal is to empower residents to build stable businesses that can generate employment and contribute to local economic activity. “We are committed to inclusive prosperity, and I urge all beneficiaries to make good use of this support,” he said.

The empowerment scheme will run in four phases, reaching a total of 1,000 residents. With high interest in financial assistance and local business growth, the program continues to position Kosofe as a leading model for community-focused governance.

A second phase targeting artisans and tradesmen is scheduled for Tuesday, 25th November 2025, with another ₦25 million set for distribution.

Comrade Olúwọlé Òbísànyà, Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, described the initiative as progressive governance in action, highlighting what he called “the Moyo Ogunlewe difference.”

Kwara Entrepreneurship Expo Empowers 15 Student Innovators

The Kwara State Entrepreneurship Expo ended on Monday with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq empowering fifteen outstanding student business creators with start-up funds after a competitive pitching session that drew hundreds of entries from across the state.

The programme, which marked the 2025 International Students’ Day, was organised by the Office of the Special Assistant on Students Affairs, Hon. Wasiu Salami Onidugbe, under the theme Entrepreneur for Development: Igniting Students as Catalysts for Economic Prosperity. The Expo highlighted the growing interest of young people in business development, innovation, digital services, and financial literacy as tools for economic growth.

From a pool of 582 student entrepreneurs who applied, fifteen finalists were selected after a rigorous screening process. Their business pitches cut across fashion designs, solar-powered sunpod systems, fishery farming, web hosting service, bakery, ushering and food delivery, event management, poultry ventures, and other creative industries. After the final pitch, Zainab Omodolapo Olatumbi, a 500-level student of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development at the University of Ilorin, emerged as the overall winner with her beans delivery business, receiving a cash prize of N1million.

The first runner-up, Waheed Lukman from the University of Ilorin, secured N800,000, while the second runner-up, Lawal Atinuke of Kwara State University, Malete, was awarded N600,000 for her proposal. The twelve other finalists each received N250,000 to strengthen their businesses and scale their ideas.

Governor AbdulRazaq, represented by the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr Lawal Olohungbebe, said the programme reflects the state’s long-term plan to support innovation and youth empowerment. He stated that “today’s Entrepreneurship Expo is another important step towards the goal of building a Kwara where every young person can succeed, regardless of background.”

The Governor added that the initiative was created to encourage innovation among students and expand the culture of entrepreneurship in a way that aligns with the economic vision of the state. He noted that the large number of applicants demonstrates the creativity, passion, and enterprising spirit of young people in Kwara.

The Governor said the International Students’ Day serves as a reminder of the resilience and potential of students globally. “Here in Kwara, we mark this day by investing in what truly matters: the minds and future of our students,” he said.

He explained that the administration has spent the last six years repositioning education and youth development through infrastructural renewal in schools, merit-based teacher recruitment, bursaries, scholarships, student safety initiatives, and digital literacy programmes that expand access to quality learning.

The event also had in attendance the Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Salihu Danladi, represented by Hon. Seun Oguniyi, along with top government officials, youths, students, and union leaders. Danladi said entrepreneurship is now a necessary path for young people who want to attain greater success, commending the youth-focused programmes of the Governor. According to him, the state’s continued investment in technology, education, and skill-based opportunities will help young people create sustainable ventures.

Hon. Onidugbe said the Expo was designed to support students who already run small businesses, with the goal of identifying their strengths and providing opportunities for growth. He said the initiative mirrors the shared vision he has with the Governor, especially the emphasis placed on innovation and enterprise development.

“Under His Excellency’s leadership, Kwara State has redefined what student development means. It has moved beyond classroom learning to nurturing young minds that can create opportunities, provide solutions, and become employers of labour,” he said. He advised the finalists to see the programme as a foundation for future achievements and to stay consistent in building their businesses.

Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hajia Sa’adatu Modibbo-Kawu, said the education sector under Governor AbdulRazaq has undergone major improvements. She listed several infrastructural projects across tertiary institutions, including classroom construction, ICT upgrades, and laboratory renovations, noting that these changes have helped create a more conducive environment for teaching and learning. She stated that education in Kwara has become a life-changing tool for youths, contributing to the social and economic development of the state.

The keynote speaker, CEO of Lahmad Concept, Ahmed Lawal, encouraged students to embrace creativity and begin their business journey early. He highlighted the importance of financial literacy as a tool for managing and sustaining income. He explained that branding is essential to business identity, adding that “branding is the promise you give your customers about your business and identity. Building a brand is different from building a business. Many students study businesses without understanding the brand. You need to understand the two clearly.”

Responding after her victory, Zainab said the grant is a major opportunity for her to expand her beans delivery business and inspire other students to pursue entrepreneurship. She thanked the Governor for supporting young entrepreneurs and giving them a platform to grow.

Zamfara Announces Screening Dates for 500 Newly Recruited Teachers

The Zamfara State Committee for the Recruitment of Teachers has confirmed that the final post-recruitment screening for the recently approved 500 successful teacher candidates will take place later this month.

In an official public service announcement dated November 14, 2025, the committee stated that the screening exercise is a mandatory step for employment verification, identity confirmation, and final clearance before appointment letters are issued. The update is part of the ongoing government jobs process aimed at strengthening education recruitment across the state.

According to the announcement, “The mandatory screening exercise is scheduled to hold for three days, from Tuesday, November 26th to Thursday, November 28th, 2025.” The committee added that all shortlisted teacher candidates must report to GGASS Gusau between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM daily. The exercise will determine eligibility for final placement and is a key stage in the teacher recruitment system approved by the Executive Governor, Dr. Dauda Lawal.

The committee stressed that candidates must arrive with both originals and photocopies of eight required documents. These include a valid means of identification such as a National ID card, Voters Card, Driver’s License, or International Passport. Required academic certificates include NCE, B.Ed, B.Sc., B.A, PGDE, and O’Level results.

Candidates must also present their NYSC discharge certificate or exemption letter, a local government indigene certificate, and a medical certificate of fitness issued by a recognized government hospital. These documents will be cross-checked with earlier application records to ensure accuracy in the employment verification process.

A warning was also issued to all candidates. The announcement stated, “Failure to turn up for this final post-recruitment screening exercise within the stipulated dates or failure to present any of the mandatory documents listed above will lead to the candidate being automatically disqualified.” The committee urged all affected individuals to comply with the schedule to avoid losing their positions.

The statement was signed by Hon. Muhammad Aliyu Tukur, Chairman of the Committee for Recruitment of Teachers, Zamfara State.