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MOMAS begins construction of €3m TVET Centre in Ogun State

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MOMAS begins construction of €3m TVET Centre in Ogun State

The Chairman of MOMAS Group, Engr. Kola Balogun, has laid the foundation for the €3 million Momas Technical Vocational and Educational Training Centre for Electro-Technology in Ogun State. The project, funded through the African Union in partnership with the African Union Development Agency and the Skills Initiative for Africa programme, is expected to strengthen technical education and support youth empowerment. According to a statement released on Saturday, MOMAS secured the grant under SIFA’s Funding Window 1, which supports large-scale skills development projects across Africa.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Industrial Training and Development, Mr. Adamson Oluwatosin Ayinde, described the centre as a major step toward addressing Nigeria’s manpower needs, especially within the power sector. He said the project responds directly to critical shortages in smart electricity metering, electrical wiring and maintenance, renewable energy technologies and electro-technology safety practices, adding that these skills are essential for national growth. Ayinde commended Engr. Balogun for what he called patriotism, foresight and commitment to national development, noting MOMAS’ decision to exceed the mandatory 10 percent counterpart funding.

Ayinde explained that the initiative supports the Federal Government’s commitment to developing a technologically skilled workforce while reducing dependence on foreign artisans. He said the centre represents opportunity, empowerment and hope for young Nigerians interested in employment or entrepreneurship. According to him, “Today’s ceremony marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward a skilled and globally competitive workforce.”

Also speaking, AUDA-NEPAD representative, Mr. Gemechu Berhanu Kusa, said the centre represents the beginning of a transformative training hub for young Africans. He said, “This centre is a bold step in our shared mission to empower Africa’s youth. Technical and vocational education is not a second choice, but a first-class pathway to opportunity, dignity and sustainable livelihoods.” Kusa highlighted the centre’s focus on electrotechnology and renewable energy, especially solar photovoltaic systems, noting that these areas can help address youth unemployment and Nigeria’s energy needs.

He added that the institution will develop cutting-edge curricula aligned with national standards, provide scholarships and ensure inclusivity, while supporting the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He said the project is designed to prepare young people for global opportunities in engineering, energy and renewable technology fields.

In her goodwill message, the President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, praised MOMAS for its vision and said the project is timely. According to her, “The nation is in desperate need of skilled manpower to drive infrastructure development, industrial growth and technological advancement.” She called for collaboration from the Lagos State Government, the Federal Government and key stakeholders in engineering and energy to maximise the impact of the centre. She added that the Nigerian Society of Engineers fully supports MOMAS Group, stressing the economic value it will contribute.

In his remarks, the Chairman of MOMAS Group, Engr. Balogun, said the centre aims to build on previous initiatives that focused on empowering young people with practical skills. He said support from NEPAD and the German government will enable the centre to acquire modern equipment and expand its training programmes, creating opportunities for skilled personnel to work in Europe and other regions. He noted that the centre will contribute to Nigeria’s renewable energy goals by preparing technicians for solar panel installation, solar battery systems and energy storage technologies. According to him, “The centre will provide the needed skills for installing solar panels, solar batteries and energy storage systems, thereby complementing the significant investments already made by government in renewable energy.”

Balogun stated that construction of the building is expected to be completed within a year, with NEPAD directly funding the contractor. The long-term goal is to create an institution that is internationally recognised for training top-tier engineers and technicians.

Group Managing Director of MOMAS, Engr. Hammed Abiodun, described the event as a landmark moment for the organisation. He said, “This recognition by the German government is a testament to our long-standing commitment to adding value to society, especially the youth.” Abiodun stressed that the future depends on skill acquisition, noting examples from countries like China where practical skills have driven economic expansion. He said the organisation aims to harness Nigeria’s large youth population by training and reshaping them to contribute meaningfully to national development.

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Lagos Rewards 34 Young Agripreneurs With ₦150 Million

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Lagos Rewards 34 Young Agripreneurs With ₦150 Million

The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, has rewarded 34 outstanding young agripreneurs with a total sum of ₦150 million for their contributions to strengthening the State’s agricultural and food systems sector. The announcement was made during the Agrinnovation Summit, a platform created to showcase new ideas and support youth participation in agriculture, a sector the government described as central to the State’s economic development and long-term food security plans.

Speaking at the event, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed Lagos State’s role as the intellectual and economic hub of Nigeria. Represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Sam Egube, the Governor noted that Lagos remains the nation’s best chance to drive sustainable progress. He explained that the State carries a responsibility beyond its residents, serving as a model for innovation, economic growth, and modern food production. He stressed that food security is a key element of national and State development strategies, describing it as the foundation for social stability and long-term investment opportunities.

The Governor highlighted that Lagos is investing heavily in partnerships with the private sector to strengthen agricultural systems, logistics, and value chains. He said, “Lagos is the biggest market in sub-Saharan Africa; we must therefore pay particular attention to how we mobilise our people to produce for Nigeria. Agriculture is not just about planting and harvesting; it is about how food gets from the farms to the tables, and Lagos is strategically positioned to lead that process.” He added that limited landmass should not limit agricultural productivity, citing the Netherlands as a global example of how innovation and technology can overcome natural constraints.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also urged young people to take ownership of the future of agriculture in Lagos. He assured them that the government will continue to provide funding, investment support, and innovation-driven programmes through initiatives such as the Produce-for-Lagos Programme and the Guaranteed Uptake Fund. He reaffirmed the State’s commitment to building a 21st-century economy powered by knowledge and innovation, describing Lagos as a place of possibilities for agritech, agribusiness, and digital agriculture.

The Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Abisola Olusanya, explained that the Agrinnovation Club was created to serve as a bridge between young agripreneurs and the broader agricultural transformation agenda of Lagos State. She said the same vision guides key initiatives such as the Eko Flavours Culinary Initiative, the Lagos Food Festival, the Lagos Agripreneurship Programme, and the Lagos Agric Scholars Programme. According to her, these programmes form major components of the State’s Agricultural and Food Systems Roadmap, launched in 2021 to achieve long-term self-sufficiency in safe, nutritious, and affordable food.

Olusanya stated that the Agrinnovation Club plays a pivotal role in the Produce-for-Lagos Programme by strengthening the State’s production base, linking rural farmers to urban markets, and promoting a system where Lagos consumes what it produces. She noted that the resilience and creativity of Lagos youth remain essential to shaping a modern agricultural economy driven by innovation, agritech, and digital platforms. She added that the Ministry has already seen inspiring concepts such as rooftop farming, waste-to-feed innovations, and online marketplaces connecting farmers directly to buyers. According to her, “These are not only clear indicators that the transformation of Lagos agriculture will not come from grand gestures alone, but from consistent acts of creativity, courage, and collaboration by young people who dare to redefine what is possible.”

In his remark, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Food Systems, Dr Oluwarotimi Fashola, expressed gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his visionary support for the agricultural sector. He said the Governor’s commitment to youth empowerment, food security, and innovation continues to shape all programmes and interventions of the Ministry. He also commended the Honourable Commissioner and her team for implementing policies that are repositioning agriculture as a viable and technologically driven enterprise in Lagos.

Fashola described the creation of the Agrinnovation Club as a bold step toward building a sustainable agricultural ecosystem that thrives on collaboration, creativity, and technology. He said the initiative reflects the government’s determination to engage young people meaningfully while making agriculture profitable and attractive. He emphasised that the State Government remains committed to supporting efforts that strengthen the Produce-for-Lagos agenda and position Lagos as a model for urban agricultural innovation in Nigeria.

The Special Adviser encouraged the beneficiaries of the ₦150 million reward to maximise the opportunity provided by the Agrinnovation platform. He urged them to remain dedicated, consistent, and innovative, adding that integrity and hard work are essential foundations for long-term success. He said they should see themselves not just as beneficiaries but as key partners in building a Lagos where agriculture is smart, inclusive, and sustainable.

NAFEST 2025 Hackathon application opens with N4 million prize

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NAFEST 2025 Hackathon application opens with N4 million prize

The National Council for Arts and Culture, in partnership with the Council for Creative Technology Futures, has announced the opening of applications for the 2025 NAFEST Hackathon. According to the organisers, the event is designed to bring developers, innovators, founders, and creative entrepreneurs together to build what they describe as “the next generation of digital tools that will shape Nigeria’s creative future.” They added that the hackathon is open to anyone ready to build, disrupt, and transform the country’s fast-growing creative economy.

The competition focuses on fashion, film, music, design, crafts, gaming, and literature, noting that participants are expected to create digital solutions that can scale creative enterprise, increase monetization, and unlock new market opportunities. The theme for this edition is Innovate to Scale: Digital Solutions for Creative Enterprise, reflecting a strong push for technology-driven growth in creative industries.

Participants are encouraged to submit ideas in key areas including e-commerce for creatives, digital service platforms for music, audio, and video, SVOD platforms for film and cultural education, influencer and creator tools for monetization, creative marketplaces linking artisans to global buyers, and data and analytics tools that support audience growth. The organisers explained that these categories were chosen to support innovation and encourage solutions that address real market needs.

Prizes include N4 million for the first-place winner along with AWS kits, visibility, and acceleration support through ISN Hubs and Startup South. Second place receives N2 million, third place N1 million, fourth place N500,000, and fifth place N250,000, all with AWS kits and visibility. Consolation prizes for sixth to tenth place also include AWS kits and visibility.

The event will take place at Hall 2, International Conference Centre, Enugu. Applications for the NAFEST Hackathon close on 24 November, and interested participants can register through this form Link.

C’ River State Begins Verification for 2024 Forest Guard Recruits

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C’ River State Begins Verification for 2024 Forest Guard Recruits

The CRS Civil Service Commission has announced a compulsory verification and validation exercise for all Forest Guards recruited in 2024. According to the notice, the exercise will run from Monday to Wednesday next week and aims to confirm eligible recruits for immediate salary payment. The commission stated that the exercise is “in line with Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s People First mantra of always listening to the yearnings of Cross Riverians,” highlighting the government’s focus on accountability and public service.

The schedule begins on Monday, 17th November 2025, for candidates from the Southern Senatorial District. On Tuesday, 18th November 2025, candidates from the Central Senatorial District will be attended to, while Wednesday, 19th November 2025, is reserved for recruits from the Northern Senatorial District.

The verification will take place at the CRS Forestry Commission headquarters in Calabar, starting at 9am each day. All affected Forest Guards are mandated to appear physically with original and photocopied credentials, along with two recent passport photographs. The commission emphasized that failure to appear “will be taken to mean such candidate has relinquished the appointment,” reinforcing the importance of compliance.

Chevron Opens Application for NMA Undergraduate Internship Program

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Chevron Opens Application for NMA Undergraduate Internship Program

The NMA Undergraduate Internship application is now open, creating another opportunity for Nigerian students to access hands-on industry experience. Chevron Nigeria Limited, a leading integrated energy company operating under a joint venture with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, announced the opening. The company stated that it upholds “integrity, trust, diversity, and ingenuity” in its operations and recruitment process, adding that it remains committed to providing equal opportunities in line with applicable laws and regulations. This update is gaining attention among students searching for internship programs, career growth, and energy sector opportunities.

According to Chevron, the internship aligns with its corporate social responsibility goals and supports the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme. The company explained that the program is structured to help undergraduate students build technical knowledge while gaining experience that strengthens their future career prospects. Chevron noted, “The program provides learning opportunities for Nigerian students pursuing undergraduate degrees,” emphasizing that interns will handle assignments related to their discipline while working under supervisors who oversee their development.

The company highlighted that the internship offers real industry exposure through hands-on tasks, mentorship, and interactions with professionals across different fields. This provides students with access to valuable energy industry insights and practical skills relevant to oil and gas operations, engineering, technology, and business functions.

Eligibility for the program is limited to Nigerian students studying either within the country or abroad. Candidates must be enrolled in a Bachelor’s program, National Diploma or Higher National Diploma, and their academic institutions must require industry experience as part of graduation requirements. Chevron stated that applicants will need a SIWES recommendation letter from their schools, which must be uploaded during the online application.

The internship runs for a minimum of three months and can extend to twelve months depending on institutional requirements. All applicants will undergo a shortlisting process that includes aptitude tests, and the company clarified that selections will be based strictly on performance and available slots. The application deadline is Tuesday, December 02, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.

Chevron added that it participates in E-Verify in certain locations as required by law. The official application portal has been provided Here for interested candidates seeking internship openings, career opportunities, and energy industry experience.

Chevron Corporation, headquartered in Houston, Texas, remains one of the world’s major energy companies with operations in oil and gas exploration, crude oil production, fuel distribution, petrochemicals, power generation, and emerging energy technologies.

Keystone Bank, CoralWorker Launch Free 2025 Training Program

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Keystone Bank, CoralWorker Launch Free 2025 Training Program

Keystone Bank has announced a new partnership with CoralWorker to deliver the 2025 Coral Worker Free Training, a major skills program designed for domestic, home-care, childcare and hospitality workers across Nigeria. According to organizers, the coralworker.com workers training and sensitization event aims to upgrade job performance, improve career development and introduce workers to government tools that support financial and career growth.

CoralWorker said the speakers and trainers for the event “have been carefully selected, and are industry experts with decades of experience and insight in their subject areas.” The program focuses on core job functions, soft skills and access to government institutional resources that can help participants achieve better life and employment outcomes. Workers in the food industry, hospitality, childcare and domestic care are encouraged to attend.

Participants will receive hands-on training from Executive Chefs and professional trainers from leading five-star hotels. They also confirmed that the session will come with a free certificate, along with rewards that include cash prizes for various competitions. The training covers domestic, home-care, childcare and hospitality skills, and is open to workers aiming to improve earnings, job security and access to financial services.

Registered attendees will receive free access to all sessions and will also get a customised Coralworker.com and Keystone Bank ATM card. Each participant will be issued a certificate of attendance containing their name.

The event will take place on December 12, 2025, at the National Women Center Abuja, opposite the CBN headquarters in the Central Business District, starting at 07:30 AM. Interested workers can register at event.coralworker.com. During registration, applicants can also open a Keystone Bank account by selecting the option that allows automatic account opening with a required N2000 deposit. This initiative supports nationwide workforce development.

SLA BoostHer Program Opens Applications for Young Nigerian Women

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SLA BoostHer Program Opens Applications for Young Nigerian Women

Application is open for the SLA BoostHer Program, a new initiative designed to support young Nigerian women who want to build careers, launch businesses, or gain practical digital skills. According to the organizers, the program is developed in collaboration with Jobberman to provide what they describe as a blended learning experience that tackles the challenges young women face in business and the job market. The team explained that the goal is to help participants achieve economic independence through training, mentorship, and access to business and career opportunities.

The program targets young Nigerian women between the ages of 18 and 35. Organizers stated that it is open to women with innovative business ideas as well as those who want to learn skills that can help them turn their abilities into income. They also noted that the opportunity is available to students, undergraduates, and recent graduates. One official said the initiative welcomes “students at the point of admission who want to gain career readiness skills” and “current undergraduates looking to build their employability and professional experience.” They added that recent graduates preparing for the job market are also encouraged to join.

Participants should expect a flexible structure. The team confirmed that monthly enrollment is available, allowing applicants to join at any time. The program includes self-paced digital courses, live weekly masterclasses with industry experts, and networking sessions designed to connect young women with mentors and peers. Organizers also highlighted on-campus engagements and community-based learning for those who prefer in-person activities. The SLA team stated that learning will take place through digital courses, live sessions on Zoom and Google Meet, and community groups on WhatsApp and Facebook.

The benefits include access to expert-led training, guidance from business leaders, and practical lessons in financial management, branding, leadership, and business ideation. The organizers emphasized that the program creates a pathway to business growth and career development, noting that learners will also receive opportunities related to internships, job placements, and business support. They confirmed that grants and funding opportunities are part of the package. “This is your chance to take control of your future,” the program announcement stated.

Applicants can also explore training paths that help them turn passion into income. The available areas include video editing, graphic design, and e-book writing. For job-focused skills, the program offers digital marketing, content creation, data analysis, virtual assistance, and interview preparation.

The organizers encouraged interested women to apply through the official link, stressing that the program is designed to create a community of motivated young women working toward long-term success.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY.

FAAN Confirms Dates for FNAC 2025 in Lagos

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FAAN Confirms Dates for FNAC 2025 in Lagos

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has confirmed that the third edition of the FAAN National Aviation Conference will hold on 17 and 18 November 2025 at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos. The event, known as FNAC 2025, will focus on the theme “Elevating the Nigerian Aviation Industry through Investment, Partnerships, and Global Engagements,” bringing together government officials, global organisations, financial institutions, and aviation professionals. FAAN said the annual gathering remains an important platform for promoting investment opportunities, boosting sector growth, and supporting national economic development through aviation.

According to FAAN, the 2025 conference will deepen discussions on unlocking Nigeria’s aviation potential and strengthening collaboration among industry stakeholders. The Chairperson of the FNAC 2025 Organising Committee and FAAN’s Director of Human Resources and Administration, Dr Emiola Luqman, highlighted the significance of this edition. She stated that “The Nigerian aviation industry is at a defining stage, presenting vast opportunities for investment and innovation. With its large and growing population, strategic geographical position, and the Federal Government’s commitment to infrastructure development and regulatory reform, Nigeria offers a strong value proposition for investors.” She added that the conference has grown into a trusted platform for high-level engagement. “FAAN, through FNAC, continues to provide a credible platform for engagement and collaboration, and FNAC 2025 will demonstrate how far we have progressed and the immense potential that lies ahead,” she said.

Since its launch, the conference has played a major role in supporting sector reforms, encouraging foreign investment, and promoting knowledge exchange. It has consistently attracted global investors, aviation consultants, policy developers, and technical experts interested in Nigeria’s aviation opportunities. FAAN noted that FNAC 2025 will feature panel sessions with industry leaders, an Investment Forum focused on capital mobilisation and public–private partnerships, and a State Governors’ Forum aimed at showcasing regional aviation prospects. The conference will also host aviation exhibitions that highlight the latest technology and services, as well as a Career Fair to guide young Nigerians interested in aviation careers.

FAAN has invited investors, development agencies, airlines, airport service providers, and other stakeholders to participate in the event. The Authority said FNAC 2025 is expected to strengthen the aviation industry by supporting sustainable growth, increasing investment flows, and building partnerships that align with Nigeria’s long-term economic goals. The conference is positioned as a key driver of aviation development, supporting sector capacity, promoting economic diversification, and advancing Nigeria’s presence in the global aviation market.

FCCPC issues N100m sanctions as new digital lending rules begin

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FCCPC issues N100m sanctions as new digital lending rules begin

Loan apps operating in Nigeria now face sanctions of up to N100 million as the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission announced the commencement of the Digital, Electronic, Online, or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025. The announcement was made in a press release on Wednesday, marking a major step in regulating digital lending and addressing consumer protection issues in Nigeria’s fast-growing online credit market. The development is expected to influence digital finance, loan recovery processes, consumer rights, and compliance for all operators offering electronic or mobile lending services.

According to the FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr Ondaje Ijagwu, the new rule aims to tackle exploitative practices, data privacy violations, abusive recovery tactics, harassment, and anti-competitive behaviour by certain digital lenders and their partners. He noted that the rising complaints from consumers made it necessary to implement a regulatory framework that strengthens financial transparency, promotes responsible lending, and protects users across various digital platforms.

In the statement, the Commission’s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Tunji Bello, confirmed the gazetting and commencement of the regulations at his office in Abuja. He stated that the move marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s digital lending environment. According to him, “For too long, Nigerians have endured harassment, data breaches, and unethical practices by unregulated digital lenders. These regulations draw a clear line that innovation is welcome, but not at the expense of the rights and dignity of consumers or the rule of law.” He added that no consumer should be harassed, defamed, or pushed into unsustainable debt under the guise of fast digital loans.

The FCCPC explained that the regulations were made under Sections 17, 18, and 163 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act of 2018 and are designed to safeguard consumers by establishing a comprehensive structure for all digital lending operations. The rule, which took effect on July 21, 2025, sets out registration requirements, monitoring guidelines, and sanctions for operators who fail to comply. The commission warned that “non-compliant operators face sanctions, which may include fines of up to N100 million or 1% of turnover, as well as potential disqualification of directors for up to five years.”

The new regulation applies to all unsecured consumer lending conducted through online platforms, electronic systems, mobile applications, and other non-traditional channels. It also addresses transparency, ethical marketing, fair interest rates, consumer data protection, and responsible lending standards. The FCCPC stated that the regulations prohibit pre-authorised or automatic lending, enforce clear loan terms, and mandate local ownership of at least one service provider offering airtime and data lending services. The rule also requires joint registration for all lender partnerships and prohibits monopolistic or dominance-based agreements without prior approval from the Commission.

All digital lending providers, including Mobile Money Operators, Digital Money Lenders, and related service partners, were directed to visit the Commission’s website for application procedures and compliance details. Consumers were encouraged to report unregistered lenders, unfair interest rates, or privacy violations through the complaint portal at lenderstaskforce@fccpc.gov.ng.

MTN Launches VibeTide Festive Campaign Across Nigeria

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MTN Launches VibeTide Festive Campaign Across Nigeria

MTN Nigeria has launched a new festive campaign called VibeTide, designed to connect millions of Nigerians through culture, lifestyle, music, generosity, and digital engagement. The company said the initiative will run through the festive months with activities created to meet people wherever they gather, forming a major highlight of the holiday season.

The campaign kicked off with Y’ello Santa, a multi-city activation that reached Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano, Ibadan, and Enugu. These cities came alive with surprises, gifts, entertainment, and warm interactions. Thousands of Nigerians were celebrated as MTN teams visited high traffic areas to create spontaneous festive moments, and the excitement across locations showed the strong early momentum of the season.

In response to the rise in returnees and tourists arriving for the holidays, MTN also announced new integrated bundles targeted at the I Just Got Back community. The company explained that many travellers depend on mobile data immediately after landing, using it to navigate cities, book rides, find events, make cashless payments, and stay connected to loved ones. The affordable and reliable data options are meant to help visitors settle in quickly and enjoy the season without struggling with connectivity. These bundles will be accessible through the yellotide portal, regular channels, and the MyMTN app.

MTN described the dedicated VibeTide portal as a digital gateway that gives customers access to exclusive event tickets, curated experiences, giveaways, and up to date information on campaign activities. According to the company, the portal ensures Nigerians can stay plugged into the celebrations in a simple and personal way.

YelloTide will run across November and December and extend into early 2026, combining on ground activations, digital engagement, talent showcases, and community-focused surprises. The company said the project reinforces its commitment to celebrating Nigerians and supporting shared experiences in busy cities and hometowns during the holidays.

Speaking on the launch, the Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Nigeria, Ms Onyinye Ikenna Emeka, said VibeTide was created to elevate the energy and emotion of the festive season, adding that the initiative celebrates the joy Nigerians naturally bring at this time of year.

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