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JUSEDI Announces 2025 Essay Competition for Nigerian Law Students

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JUSEDI has announced the launch of the JUSEDI Essay Competition 2025, calling on Nigerian law students who are passionate about privacy rights, digital surveillance, and legal innovation to participate. Described as one of the most timely academic opportunities for law undergraduates, the organisation said the competition is designed to help young scholars engage with major issues affecting digital rights and data protection in Nigeria. According to the organisers, “The goal is to empower future legal professionals and spark conversations that can influence policy and advocacy in the digital age.”

The initiative, introduced by the Justice-Shelter Empowerment and Development Initiative, focuses on the theme titled Navigating the Digital Panopticon: The Right to Privacy in the Age of Surveillance Capitalism. JUSEDI explained that the competition will explore how Nigeria’s legal system can respond to growing concerns around big data, corporate tracking, and modern technologies impacting privacy. The group said the topic encourages students to examine challenges linked to digital surveillance, GDPR influences, the Nigerian Data Protection Act, and emerging risks in cybersecurity regulations while offering solutions for protecting personal freedoms.

The official essay topic for this edition expands further into issues around free speech and personal data security, making it relevant for students researching the intersection of privacy law, ethical AI, and consumer protection in the digital economy. JUSEDI stated that the competition is expected to strengthen students’ legal research skills while helping them build portfolios that may support their future applications for internships, clerkships, and other legal scholarships.

The organisers highlighted several benefits, noting that top performers can expect cash prizes and potential scholarships, with comparable contests offering rewards up to ₦500,000. According to JUSEDI, “Winning entries may also be published on our platform and in partner journals, giving students wider recognition in ongoing conversations about digital rights.” Participants will have access to networking opportunities, mentorship from legal experts, and professional development advantages through certificates and community engagement.

Eligibility for the competition is limited to students in 300 to 500 level in recognised Nigerian universities. Applicants must be JUSEDI members, although new participants can join during registration at no additional cost. All essays must be original, unpublished, and written in English. International law students studying in Nigeria are also encouraged to participate.

To complete the application, students are required to submit proof of enrollment, JUSEDI membership confirmation, a 1,500 to 3,000-word essay in Word format with OSCOLA footnotes, a short personal statement, and an optional plagiarism report. All documents must be uploaded through the online portal.

The submission deadline is January 13, 2026, and JUSEDI warned that late entries will not be considered. Organisers advised students to begin researching early on topics such as algorithmic bias and surveillance ethics to prepare strong entries.

Registration takes place on the official website, where applicants can fill out the required form, upload documents, and await evaluation by a panel of legal scholars. Enquiries can be directed to info@justice-shelter.org. Interested students can apply via justice-shelter.org/essay-competition.

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Niger, IFAD Programme Reports Major Gains in Rice, Cassava Production

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The Niger government and the International Fund for Agricultural Development Value Chain Development Programme Additional Financing have reported major progress in strengthening rice and cassava production in the state. The update was presented on Saturday in Minna by Hadizat Isah, coordinator of the Niger State Programme Management Unit, during a Steering Committee meeting.

Ms Isah told the committee that the programme had achieved significant milestones despite operational challenges. She said the Value Chain Development Programme continued to meet its targets in the rice and cassava value chains while supporting smallholder farmers with better market access and agribusiness opportunities. According to her, the programme’s work remained focused on building farmer capacity, providing climate smart inputs, rehabilitating rural infrastructure, and facilitating public private partnerships that improve economic activity.

She said thousands of beneficiaries had been empowered through training and enterprise development, adding that the adoption of improved technologies had boosted productivity and increased incomes across rural communities. She reaffirmed the programme’s commitment to improving agricultural productivity and strengthening rural livelihoods. Ms Isah also praised the support of Governor Umaru Bago, IFAD, and the federal government, describing their contributions as essential to the results recorded. She stressed the need for sustained collaboration among stakeholders to maintain momentum and consolidate the gains achieved so far.

In his remarks, Matthew Ahmed, permanent secretary of the Niger Ministry of Agriculture and chairman of the steering committee, commended the achievements presented. He said the state government remained committed to strengthening policies and creating an enabling environment for agricultural development. Mr Ahmed encouraged committee members to continue giving strategic direction to ensure the programme stays on course and delivers expected outcomes.

The meeting gathered key stakeholders from relevant ministries, departments, and agencies to review progress under the initiative and outline the next steps for expanding agricultural impact in Niger State. Participants also discussed investment opportunities to sustain growth.

Tamrose Expands African Fleet After NCDMB-Funded Growth

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The Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, on Thursday praised Tamrose Limited for effectively using the Nigerian Content Intervention Fund to grow its marine logistics operations and expand its offshore support services beyond Nigeria. The Minister gave this commendation during an event held at the Nigerian Content Tower in Swali, Yenagoa, where he highlighted the company’s progress and the significant impact of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board’s funding support on local participation in the oil and gas industry.

Speaking on the achievements made through the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board’s US$350 million Nigerian Content Intervention Fund, the Minister said he was pleased that the Fund had contributed to the success of Tamrose. He noted that the company accessed a US$10 million credit facility in 2019 through the Bank of Industry, which manages the Fund, and used it to expand from four patrol vessels to 15 vessels in 2025. He also confirmed that the company completed repayment of the loan in September 2025. According to him, it was a moment of pride to witness the event and to celebrate what he described as “the success of the partnership between NCDMB and Tamrose.” He added, “I am happy that Tamrose has gone beyond the shores of Nigeria to render logistics services in the oil and gas industry across the continent of Africa.”

Senator Lokpobiri stressed that the Nigerian Content Intervention Fund was created to strengthen local capacity and ensure Nigerian companies can compete in global oil and gas markets. He said the example set by Tamrose should encourage more indigenous operators to develop capacity, improve service delivery, and take advantage of opportunities in the African energy sector. Pointing to the purpose of the Fund, he said it was designed not only to support Nigerian operations but also to ensure companies can offer services across international markets. He warned that beneficiaries who fail to repay their loans would face legal action, emphasising that loan discipline is essential for the sustainability of the Fund. As Chairman of the NCDMB Governing Council and Minister of Petroleum Resources, he assured indigenous companies that the government remains committed to expanding the Fund. He said the goal is “to continue to grow this Fund so that companies like Tamrose… would continue to acquire more capacity and render the services that are needed in the oil and gas industry.”

In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, said the event was organised to celebrate Tamrose, recognise its success story, and demonstrate what the Nigerian private sector can achieve when local talent and capital are properly supported. Represented by the General Manager of Human Capacity Development, Mr. Esueme Dan Kikile Esq., he stated that the commitment and professionalism of Tamrose’s workforce would continue to boost the Nigerian marine logistics subsector. He explained that the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act of 2010 was created to ensure that Nigerians remain at the centre of value creation in the oil and gas sector, and confirmed that NCDMB has translated this mandate into visible impact through structured frameworks and strong partnerships.

Engr. Ogbe said the NCI Fund was designed to provide structured capital to qualified Nigerian companies that show capacity and contribute to the Fund. He noted that “Tamrose Limited stands as clear evidence that our approach is delivering results.” He emphasised that NCDMB is committed to supporting credible enterprises, strengthening its operational frameworks, deepening transparency, and expanding programmes that help Nigerian companies meet global competition standards. He explained that the Board’s strategic direction includes increasing local participation in the gas value chain, strengthening the Board’s involvement in renewables, expanding the blue economy, and building a strong industrial base driven by Nigerian innovation and investment.

He also announced that following the success of the NCI Fund and the strong performance of some beneficiaries, the Board will unveil a new Nigerian Content Equity Fund during the 2025 edition of the Practical Nigerian Content Forum in December. The new Fund will provide long-term risk capital to support Nigerian companies operating in high-value and high-impact sectors.

Earlier, in a welcome address, the Executive Chairman of Tamrose Limited, Mr. Ambrose Ovbiebo, spoke about the company’s journey from modest beginnings to becoming a trusted partner to major international and independent oil and gas companies. He recalled that the company operated with only four small security vessels in 2019 when it approached the NCI Fund for support. He said obtaining the US$10 million credit facility marked a turning point for the company. According to him, that support “has turned to not just be pivotal but a foundational catalyst that has propelled and continues to accelerate both our growth and evolution as a company.”

Mr. Ovbiebo said the company grew from four vessels to a fleet of 15, including 10 security patrol vessels and five platform supply vessels, all purpose-built and selected to deliver safe and efficient services. He described the outcome of the facility as a celebration of growth and wider economic impact. He said the expansion enabled the company to extend its operations from Nigeria to Angola, flying the Nigerian flag proudly across Africa. He also highlighted job creation achievements, noting that staff strength increased from 50 to 244. He mentioned that the company has trained more than 100 cadets under the Tamrose Cadetship Training Scheme, enabling them to qualify for global employment opportunities. He added that improved health care access for staff and communities has also resulted in more than 1,500 enrollees benefiting from various schemes.

He thanked the company’s valued clients, including ExxonMobil, SEPLAT Energy, TotalEnergies, Chevron Nigeria Limited, First E&P, Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited, and Oriental Energy Resources, for their trust and long-term partnerships. He also expressed gratitude to the company’s financial partners, such as Union Bank, Keystone Bank, Fidelity Bank, Afreximbank, and the Bank of Industry.

He appreciated the Minister, describing him as “an ardent supporter of indigenous capacity building,” and extended heartfelt thanks to the Executive Secretary of the NCDMB for what he called visionary leadership and steadfast partnership.

In a goodwill message, the Divisional Head of Extractive and Natural Resources at the Bank of Industry, Mr. Taiye Emagha, praised Tamrose for its strong repayment discipline. He said Tamrose was the kind of customer any good bank would prefer to work with. He added that the company repaid the loan fully and on time without any reminders from the Bank of Industry. He wished the company continued success.

The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, represented by Mr. Jibril Abba, also commended Tamrose for operational excellence and for maintaining a fully Nigerian-flagged fleet. He thanked the NCDMB for supporting the company to achieve its milestones and encouraged the firm to continue pushing the boundaries of indigenous capacity in marine logistics and offshore support services.

16-Year-Old OAU Student Wins 9th NCDMB National Essay Competition

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Sixteen-year-old Josephine Oyinkansola Akande of Obafemi Awolowo University has emerged as the overall winner of the 9th NCDMB Annual National Undergraduate Essay Competition, held on Friday at the Nigerian Content Tower in Yenagoa. The 200-level medical student from Osun State outperformed nine other finalists to claim the top prize of one million naira, an HP laptop, and other items. The competition, known for attracting high-performing students nationwide, continues to grow in visibility as a youth development and education support initiative.

The first runner-up, twenty-three-year-old Sonuga Sultan Opeyemi, also a 200-level medical student from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, received seven hundred thousand naira and an HP laptop. The second runner-up, Miss Amarachi Precious Aguigwe, a 200-level computer science student from the University of Uyo, got five hundred thousand naira and an HP laptop. Seven other finalists each received an HP laptop as a consolation prize. All ten finalists were also presented with copies of Nigeria’s Local Content: A Journey of Strategic Communication and Economic Transformation, written by Dr. Obinna Ezeobi, the General Manager of the Corporate Communications Division of the Board.

In his keynote address, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, said the Board supports the competition “to inculcate local content consciousness among undergraduates in our higher institutions” and to highlight that local content is an economic imperative for sustainable development. He explained that the competition also aims to promote liberal arts education and strengthen soft skills that are crucial in the digital economy. According to him, “Analytical and critical thinking skills as well as problem-solving ability would also be enhanced in exercises of this nature.”

Speaking on the theme for the 2025 competition, Sustaining Local Content Policies in the Transitioning Oil and Gas Industry, he described it as timely due to global interest in energy transition. He added that Nigeria must adopt the right strategies to safeguard energy security. He commended Mahogany 21st Century Concepts Limited, the programme consultant, as well as the judges for a transparent and credible selection process. Represented by the Chief Supervisor for Government Relations, Mr. Teddy Bai, he congratulated all participants and encouraged students to stay focused on their academic goals and personal growth.

In his welcome address, the chief executive officer of Mahogany 21st Century Concepts, Mr. Eyinimi Omorozi, praised the NCDMB for maintaining its commitment to the competition, which is now in its ninth year. He acknowledged the professionalism of the judges and thanked the students for the effort and creativity displayed in their submissions. The chairman of the ceremony, Professor Barclays Ayakoromo, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academics at the University of Africa, Toru-Orua, appreciated the Board for encouraging writing culture and intellectual engagement among university students.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Dr. Obinna Ezeobi, represented by Mr. Teleola Oyeleke, applauded the programme consultant for upholding the high standards the competition is known for. He congratulated the finalists, especially the top three, urging them to maintain their excellence. He assured the audience that the NCDMB would continue supporting initiatives that promote education, innovation, and human capacity development in Nigeria.

The event was attended by a large number of students from various tertiary institutions. The top ten finalists were Abdullahi Abubakar Lawal, a 200-level computer science student of Baze University; Sonuga Sultan Opeyemi, first runner-up; Miss God’s Glory Isaiah Iyah, a 17-year-old student from the University of Uyo; and Usman Mohammed Tahiru, a 200-level electrical engineering student of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

Others included Lawal Imran Olayemi, a 16-year-old 200-level student of medicine and surgery from Afe Babalola University; Khadijah O. Ogunleke, a 200-level pharmacy student from Usman Danfodio University; Amarachi Precious Aguigwe, second runner-up; Josephine O. Akande, overall winner; Folayemi Halleluyah Idowu, a 200-level pharmacy student of Obafemi Awolowo University; and Maryam Hamzat, a 200-level pharmacy student from Usmanu Danfodio University.

Edo Government Opens Nominations for Public Service Merit Awards

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Edo State Government has announced a call for nominations under the Edo State Public Service Re-tooling Program, known as Edo-PREP, to recognise civil and public officers who have shown strong commitment to productivity, good governance, and professional ethics. According to the Public Service Merit Awards Committee, the initiative aims to honour officers who have demonstrated what the government describes as “exceptional dedication to excellence in the service.”

The committee stated that all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies are required to nominate two deserving officers who meet key criteria, which include productivity and efficiency, proper dress code, integrity and ethics, as well as leadership and teamwork. The award categories listed are overall performance, integrity and ethical conduct, and lifetime achievement, reflecting the government’s focus on service delivery and public sector transparency.

The nomination process requires full details of each officer, including full name, academic or professional qualifications, curriculum vitae, date of first appointment into the service, and one recent passport-sized photograph with a white background. Soft copies of all documents are to be submitted via WhatsApp at +2348146913093.

The committee added that all entries must be submitted on or before Friday, 20 November 2025, noting that “late entries will not be entertained, as excellence waits for no one.” A justification letter of not more than 50 words must also be included. The notice was signed by the Chairman, Public Service Merit Committee.

FRSC Disowns Viral Claims of Ongoing Recruitment

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Information reaching Nigeria Startup News on Saturday warns the public about a fake recruitment rumour involving the Federal Road Safety Corps. This update comes after claims spreading on social media that FRSC has started a new recruitment exercise.

According to the Corps, the attention of its leadership has been drawn to these misleading posts misinforming Nigerians. The agency stated that it is not recruiting and that there is no arrangement in place for any recruitment process. The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, advised applicants and the general public to disregard what he described as “fake and misleading publications.”

He explained that FRSC recruitment has always been transparent and properly announced through advertorials on the agency’s website, social media platforms, and the National Traffic Radio 107.1FM. The public was warned to avoid any engagement with scammers promoting the rumour because the Corps will not be responsible if anyone becomes a victim.

The statement was signed by Olusegun Ogungbemide, Assistant Corps Marshal and Corps Public Education Officer, who also provided official contact emails for verification. He reiterated that Nigerians should rely only on verified information from the FRSC and encouraged anyone seeking updates on employment opportunities to follow official channels to reduce the risk of online fraud and protect their personal data from unauthorized individuals at all times.

Kaduna Corps member apologises after viral comment on female students

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A serving corps member in Kaduna State, Oyaje Daniel, has issued a formal public apology after a controversial comment he made online sparked outrage and led to widespread calls for disciplinary action from the National Youth Service Corps. The incident has drawn significant attention from parents, educators, civic groups and online users who raised concerns about student safety, digital responsibility and the professional conduct expected from educators and corps members under the NYSC scheme.

In his signed press statement, Daniel identified himself as “I, Oyaje Daniel, with the state code KD/25A/0494 currently serving in Igabi Local Government of Kaduna state.” He explained that the statement he made online two weeks earlier was a reckless attempt at a joke that was never meant to be taken seriously. However, screenshots of the comment had already been recorded and circulated widely before he deleted it. Daniel admitted that his words created a harmful impression that contradicted his values, his teaching experience and his advocacy for the protection of young girls.

He stated, “I made this careless and unguided comment two (2) weeks ago, without thinking it through. It was intended to be a joke but that was cruel of me, which I later deleted but was already recorded. I acted without thinking through and I wish I could undo and retrace my statement.” He went further to acknowledge that his actions portrayed him negatively, saying, “I admit that I have portrayed myself to be an evil person and that nothing I say would convince you. I have betrayed the trust, confidence, and faith of those who have regards for me.”

The controversy began after Daniel was heard saying, “Omoh any female students wey no coordinate themselves I go knack dem big kala. How you go Dey SS3 but you carry nyash and b**obs wey pass 400L uni lady??” The statement quickly circulated online, triggering reactions and concerns about harassment, student protection, consent, youth safety and teacher professionalism. The content led many to question whether a corps member with such comments should be allowed to interact with students.

One of the loudest responses came from an online user, Chinenye Nweke, who publicly urged the NYSC to take immediate action. She wrote, “Good day National Youth Service Corps, are you aware that a corp member Oyaje Daniel, currently serving as the Secretary-General of the Charity CDS group in Igabi LGA, Kaduna State is targeting the students under his care sexually? Is the Nysc aware that it’s harbouring sexual predators and rapists under its umbrella?” Her statement intensified public pressure and raised discussions surrounding gender safety, abuse prevention and accountability within educational environments.

In his apology, Daniel emphasized that he has always advocated against harassment and abuse, particularly involving young girls. He said, “I will emphasize again that I’m not that kind of a person, I was just carelessly joking. I have used my voice and platform as advocacy against Girl child harassment and abuse. Our young girls are to be protected, guided, not exploited.” He added that in his teaching career since 2014, he had never been accused of any form of misconduct involving female students.

Daniel went on to issue apologies to several groups. He apologized to NYSC Nigeria, Kaduna State Government, Igabi Local Government and all women who felt insulted by his comment. He also apologized to his family, his church, the body of Christ, and to Nigeria for what he described as a failure to represent good values. “My sincere apology to my past and present students whom I have disappointed through this behavior. I was supposed to be good role model in character and in words,” he added.

He also addressed his Primary Place of Assignment, saying, “To my PPA Judeen International School, Annex Section Mando Kaduna whom I’ve failed through this careless statement.” He stressed that he is ready to cooperate with any investigations, stating, “I am ready and willing to cooperate with all relevant authorities with any necessary information regarding this Issue In order to clear my name and my Integrity.” He included his contact number in the statement, describing it as part of his transparency.

Daniel concluded his statement with, “Once again my sincere apology to those whom I have failed but I believe at the end the Truth shall triumph,” and signed it as E_Signed OYAJE DANIEL, 09039059085.

Lagos to boost youth employment with digital and entrepreneurship training

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Lagos State has restated its plan to reduce youth unemployment by focusing on digital skills and entrepreneurship training for students in state-owned institutions. The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Tertiary Education, said this move is part of ongoing efforts to reduce poverty, boost economic growth and strengthen opportunities for young people in a fast-changing digital economy. Speaking over the weekend at the Job Initiative Lagos programme held at Lagos State University, Ojo, the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Mr Tolani Sule, said the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains committed to the THEMES Plus Agenda, which prioritises innovation, technology development, and human capital.

While addressing the undergraduate participants, he said the government will not allow graduates of state-owned institutions to fall behind in a technology-driven world that demands advanced digital skills. He explained that despite several competing responsibilities, the state has continued to channel resources into digital knowledge and entrepreneurship development because they are essential tools for self-employment, career growth and long-term economic stability. According to him, “Despite competing demands for state resources, the government has continued to prioritise digital and entrepreneurship knowledge as a vital key for youth and graduates to achieve self-employment.”

The Commissioner encouraged students to take the Lagos State digital training seriously, noting that the initiative is funded with public resources and designed to help young people become productive contributors. He added that the training is part of the government’s long-term plan to expand job creation, reduce unemployment rates and strengthen the state’s workforce for global competitiveness. He urged students to justify the government’s investment by applying the knowledge gained to support economic growth and reduce dependence on traditional jobs.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Adeniran Kasali, also addressed the students and described the curriculum as one created by top industry experts in entrepreneurship and digital innovation. He said the facilitators were selected because of their ability to share practical strategies for success, especially in tough economic climates. Kasali urged the students to start applying what they have learnt immediately, even before graduation. He said the government has empowered them to think beyond job seeking and position themselves as future employers.

The three-weekend Job Initiative Lagos training is being held simultaneously at Lagos State University, Ojo, and the Lagos State College of Health Technology, Yaba. The programme is a key part of the THEMES Plus Agenda aimed at giving undergraduates strong digital skills for global opportunities and positioning Lagos as a growing technology and entrepreneurship hub in West Africa.

Fisayo Soyombo Essay Competition 2025 opens with ₦500,000 prizes

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The application for the 8th Annual Fisayo Soyombo Inter-Varsity Essay Competition 2025 is now open, offering what organizers describe as “a golden opportunity for Nigerian students” to develop their writing skills, address national issues, and compete for major rewards.

The competition, hosted by the Union of Campus Journalists, University of Ibadan, is held in honour of Fisayo Soyombo, the investigative journalist and founder of the Foundation for Investigative Journalism. It continues to attract undergraduates across the country who are interested in public policy, education reform, and journalism.

According to the organisers, the 2025 theme, “Who Fails When Schools Fail? Practical Solutions to Nigeria’s Public Education Crisis,” was chosen to draw attention to persistent problems such as poor infrastructure, limited funding, teacher shortages, and unequal access to quality learning. They said the competition “is more than an essay contest; it is a call to action for young people who want to shape Nigeria’s future.” Winning entries will be celebrated during the UCJUI Induction Ceremony, a gathering known for spotlighting emerging campus journalists and encouraging media innovation.

The rewards are designed to support students’ academic and career growth. The first-place winner will receive a cash prize of ₦250,000 and an internship placement at FIJ or a partner organisation. “This internship can open doors to investigative reporting skills and industry exposure,” the committee stated. The second-place prize is ₦150,000, while the third-place winner earns ₦100,000. With a total prize pool exceeding ₦500,000, the competition also offers visibility on UCJUI platforms, an advantage for students seeking opportunities in journalism, scholarships, or freelance writing linked to high value keywords like digital media careers and academic research grants.

Eligibility is open strictly to bonafide undergraduates in accredited Nigerian universities. The organisers emphasised that the competition welcomes students from all fields, noting that “a passion for social issues or policy development gives applicants an edge.” Applicants must submit a clear scan of their student ID card or an official enrollment document such as a matriculation number confirmation. These documents must be attached as PDFs along with the essay.

The submission deadline is November 15, 2025, and students are encouraged to finalise their entries as early as possible to avoid missing out. Essays should be between 1,500 and 2,000 words, typed in Times New Roman, font size 12, with 1.5 line spacing. Applicants should include their name, university, matriculation number, phone number, and email in the document. Entries must be emailed to ucjunibadan@gmail.com with the subject line FISAYO SOYOMBO ESSAY COMPETITION.

Joseph Ogungbemi Foundation N250,000 2025 business grant application

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The Joseph Ogungbemi Foundation has announced the opening of the JOF 2025 Business Grant Initiative, a program created to support young Nigerian entrepreneurs and small business owners. The foundation described the scheme as a kingdom-driven platform designed to fuel the dreams of creatives and purpose-driven individuals. According to the organisers, the initiative will provide financial support of up to ₦750,000 to help innovative ideas grow, expand existing ventures, and create meaningful impact within local communities.

The foundation stated that applicants must be Nigerian entrepreneurs or small business owners with a startup or existing business that shows clear growth potential. Organisers also explained that applicants must demonstrate how the grant will be used to expand their business and remain committed to using the funds strictly for business-related purposes.

All applicants must be JOF Tribe members between the ages of 18 and 40, own a startup, creative brand, or business that has been running for at least three months, and submit a two to three minute video pitch while agreeing to monthly mentorship.

The program offers several benefits, including business grants of up to ₦750,000, with ₦250,000 awarded to three outstanding winners. The foundation noted that successful applicants will also gain increased visibility, support to scale their ventures, and an opportunity to contribute to job creation and community development. The organisers confirmed that applications opened on October 1, 2025, with the deadline set for November 15, 2025. They further announced that the winners will be revealed at Alone With God 4.0 on December 5, 2025.

Interested applicants are expected to complete the JOF 2025 Business Grant Application form through the official online portal provided by the foundation. The organisers encouraged all eligible young entrepreneurs to apply early and carefully follow the instructions provided on the application page today.