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NAYFLI opens application for Fellowship 1.0 for Women in Nasarawa

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NAYFLI opens application for Fellowship 1.0 for Women in Nasarawa

Applications are now open for the Nasarawa Young Female Leaders Initiative (NAYFLI) Fellowship 1.0, a unique program designed to empower young women in Nasarawa State. The initiative aims to build a new generation of confident and compassionate leaders through mentorship, leadership training, and practical community projects.

According to the organizers, “we’re creating a sisterhood pipeline where every girl discovers her power, receives guidance from wise mentors, and learns to lead with confidence and compassion.”

NAYFLI emphasized that the fellowship is not just about training but about “nurturing a generation of changemakers who will enrich Nasarawa for decades to come.”

Interested applicants can visit www.nayfli.org/apply to register. The deadline for applications is November 28, 2025.

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Gov Otu Suspends Cross River Local Government Service Recruitment

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Gov Otu Suspends Cross River Local Government Service Recruitment

The Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has suspended the ongoing recruitment process in the Local Government Service Commission. In an official statement, he said the action follows findings of gross misconduct and employment racketeering within the commission. “I have accepted the resignation of the Commission’s Chairman, Mr. Darlington Bassey Eyo,” the governor stated.

He ordered an immediate suspension of the compromised recruitment process to allow for a transparent and merit-driven review. Otu added that a special committee will investigate the matter and ensure appropriate disciplinary actions against those involved.

FG completes Robotics and AI training for Technical College students

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FG completes Robotics and AI training for Technical College students

The Federal Ministry of Education has concluded a six-day Robotics, Coding, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) training for students of Federal Technical Colleges across Nigeria, reinforcing the government’s commitment to digital innovation, creativity, and skills development.

Organized through the Directorate of Technology and Science Education, the intensive programme focused on Robotics, Coding, Programming, and Artificial Intelligence, and was held at the Federal Technical College, Yaba, Lagos. The event was conducted in collaboration with the African Development Bank (AfDB) and Coderina Education and Technology Foundation. It aimed to equip students with practical 21st-century digital competencies in areas such as robotics, 3D printing, and programming—key elements of Nigeria’s growing digital economy.

According to the Ministry, the initiative reflects the Federal Government’s strong dedication to developing a digitally literate generation that can drive innovation, creativity, and self-reliance. It aligns with the national agenda for human capital development and the country’s broader push toward digital transformation.

In her keynote address, the Director of Technology and Science Education, Dr. (Mrs.) Muyibat A. Olodo, commended the programme’s success, describing it as “a resounding success and a model for transformative educational collaboration.” She emphasized that integrating robotics, coding, and AI learning would foster creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills among young Nigerians.

Dr. Olodo praised the participating students for their enthusiasm and resilience throughout the training, urging them to apply their newly acquired digital skills toward technological advancement and nation-building. Recognition was also given to the top-performing participants, including Obinna Joy Adaeze from Federal Technical College, Yaba, who emerged as the overall winner; Punshak Nanfendi from FTC Kafanchan, who took second place; and Ugwu Jusfihe from FTC Uromi, who secured third place.

She extended appreciation to the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON; the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad; and the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Abel Olamuyiwa Enitan, for their visionary leadership and commitment to digital and technical education.

Dr. Olodo also commended the AfDB and Coderina EDTECH Foundation for their partnership, describing it as “a cornerstone for bridging Nigeria’s digital skills gap.” The initiative supports the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which places education and digital empowerment at the center of national transformation and innovation-driven growth.

Nigeria, UAE sign MoU to boost digital education for youth

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Nigeria, UAE sign MoU to boost digital education for youth

The Minister for Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has announced that Nigeria has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE Digital School, under the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), to expand access to digital education and skill development for millions of young Nigerians.

The agreement, signed in Dubai, represents a major milestone in Nigeria’s drive to strengthen youth capacity for participation in the global digital economy. This development follows earlier engagements held in July 2025 between Nigerian representatives and UAE government officials, alongside development partners.

Comrade Olawande described the partnership as a bold step towards empowering young people with practical digital skills needed for future employment and innovation. “Doubtless, this partnership represents more than just an agreement; it is a promise to equip our youth with the skills, tools, and opportunities they need to thrive in a fast-changing digital economy,” he stated.

He expressed deep appreciation to the Government and people of the United Arab Emirates for their hospitality, leadership, and support for global development. According to him, the collaboration “goes beyond Nigeria; it stands as a symbol of shared responsibility, shared progress, and shared hope for the youth of both nations.”

The partnership will provide digital learning platforms, technology-based training, and innovative learning models designed to help Nigerian youths adapt to global opportunities in the digital space.

Comrade Olawande also acknowledged Sapphital Limited, the technical partner, and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD) team for their efforts in making the initiative possible. “I am confident that this partnership we have all worked hard to achieve will deliver real impact for our youth and for our nation,” he said.

Jim Ovia Foundation 2025 scholarship to open soon for undergraduates

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Jim Ovia Foundation 2025 scholarship to open soon for undergraduates

The Jim Ovia Foundation has announced that its 2025 scholarship programme for Nigerian undergraduate students will soon open. The Foundation confirmed that the application period will last only one week, urging interested students to get their documents and eligibility requirements ready ahead of time.

According to the Foundation, the Jim Ovia Foundation Scholarship is a prestigious Nigerian undergraduate award that provides ₦150,000 per academic year to support tuition and living expenses until graduation. The programme is designed to promote education and empower future leaders across various academic disciplines in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

“All accredited undergraduate programmes in Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education are eligible,” the Foundation stated. Eligible fields include Science, Engineering, Business, Management, Education, Economics, Social Sciences, Arts, Medicine, and Agriculture.

The scholarship is open only to Nigerian citizens who are either current or prospective undergraduate students. Applicants must demonstrate strong academic excellence, leadership skills, and a commitment to community development. The minimum age for candidates is 16 years.

Selection will be based on academic performance, leadership qualities, and the applicant’s potential for positive societal impact. The Foundation noted that “successful candidates may undergo interviews or document verification before final selection.”

Each year, approximately 100 scholarships are awarded to deserving students across Nigeria. The ₦150,000 annual support covers tuition and living costs for the duration of the student’s undergraduate programme.

Applicants are required to create an account on the Jim Ovia Scholars online portal and use the “APPLY NOW – New Applicants” link to begin their application once it opens. The process involves completing the online form accurately and uploading all required documents such as a government-issued ID, birth certificate, passport photograph, JAMB result, university admission letter, academic transcript, HOD’s recommendation, school ID, and O’Level certificate.

The Foundation advised students to visit the official scholarship portal Link.

Bode Amao Foundation application for ₦100,000 scholarships for indigent students

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Bode Amao Foundation application for ₦100,000 scholarships for indigent students

The Bode Amao Foundation (BAF) has announced the opening of its annual scholarship program for bright but indigent undergraduate students across Nigerian universities. The foundation said the award aims to support students who have shown outstanding academic excellence but face financial challenges in continuing their education.

According to the foundation, “The Bode Amao Foundation Scholarship provides full tuition coverage and an annual stipend of ₦100,000 to support indigent undergraduate students in Nigeria throughout their course of study, provided high academic excellence is maintained.”

The scholarship is open to all accredited undergraduate programs in Nigerian tertiary institutions, including universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. BAF emphasized that the program is offered without prejudice to tribe, sex, religion, or age.

To be eligible, applicants must be Nigerian citizens currently registered in a Nigerian federal tertiary institution and must have reached at least the 200 level at the time of application. The selection process focuses on academic excellence, verified indigence, and official registration at a recognized institution. “We are committed to rewarding merit and supporting students who genuinely need financial assistance,” the foundation stated.

So far, the foundation has supported over 247 students across 28 universities nationwide. The scholarship covers full tuition and provides ₦100,000 annually per student. Each award remains active throughout the student’s course of study, as long as academic excellence is maintained.

Interested students are required to obtain the application form free of charge from the Bode Amao Foundation website or from the Registrar’s Office of their institution. Applicants must submit necessary documents, including their academic transcript, letters of recommendation, student ID, admission letters, medical certificate, and course registration form. The Registrar’s attestation confirming the student’s registration is also mandatory.

Completed applications should be sent by post to Bode Amao Foundation (BAF), P.O. Box 7088, Secretariat Post Office, Ibadan, Oyo State. Further details are available on the BAF Scholarship Portal or through Justina Oladoye form Link.

NADDC Trains 50 Oyo Auto-Technicians on CNG Tricycle Maintenance

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NADDC Trains 50 Oyo Auto-Technicians on CNG Tricycle Maintenance

The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) has trained 50 auto-technicians in Oyo State on the maintenance and repair of petrol and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) tricycles.

The training, which was held in Ibadan, was organised in collaboration with the Office of the Special Assistant to the President on Youth Initiative (Monitoring and Delivery) and DAG Industry Limited, the makers of Bajaj motorcycles.

NADDC, a parastatal under the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, said the training is part of its ongoing efforts to equip Nigerian youths with practical skills that align with modern automotive technology and clean energy development.

The Director-General of NADDC, Mr. Oluwemimo Osanipin, said the four-day programme was aimed at empowering Nigerian youths through practical and industry-driven knowledge. Represented by Mrs. Joke Onireti, Director of the Industrial Infrastructure Department, NADDC, he said the skills gained from the training would prepare participants for new opportunities emerging within the nation’s automotive and clean energy sector.

Osanipin explained that with Nigeria adopting Compressed Natural Gas as part of its energy transition plan, it was important for technicians to be trained on the technology to remain relevant in the changing job market.

“We want to train them on how to fix, maintain, and repair CNG motorcycles and tricycles, which is the new technology coming into the country,” he said.

“In terms of automotive, technology is not static; it is flexible, and every year new technology keeps coming out, and Nigeria needs to keep moving along,” he added.

The NADDC Director-General noted that the ongoing shift from conventional fuel to CNG in Nigeria was not just a matter of adopting a new technology but about building people’s capacity, knowledge, and confidence in the system.

“So, as we embrace this clean energy transition agenda, it is important to recognise that awareness and training are the bedrock of success in this journey,” he said.

According to him, the use of CNG tricycles involves specialised systems that require precision, care, and technical expertise to maintain.

“Nigerian youths must be trained to build a workforce of competent technicians who can maintain and service CNG tricycles safely. This will empower our youths with new skills, opening doors to employment and entrepreneurship within the CNG value chain,” he said.

Dr. Titilope Gbadamosi, the Special Assistant to the President on Youth Initiative (Monitoring and Delivery), said the participants would form part of a new generation of skilled technicians and innovators across Nigeria.

According to her, the trained technicians would not only repair machines but also sustain their livelihoods and improve transportation efficiency.

She noted that her office would continue to partner with ministries, agencies, and industry stakeholders to ensure that young Nigerians were not left behind in the nation’s economic growth.

“The success of this training will inspire others and contribute to improved expertise in Nigeria, which can, in turn, be exported to other countries of the world,” Gbadamosi said.

Mr. Chandan Kumar, Deputy Service Head at DAG Industry Limited, said participants were trained on diagnostics and repairs, fuel system management, and safety measures in handling CNG components.

He said the training also covered preventive maintenance and entrepreneurial guidance to help participants start their own workshops.

Mr. Adisa Olalekan, the Oyo State Chairman of the Tricycle Mechanic Development Association, commended NADDC and its partners for the initiative and promised to pass on the knowledge gained to other members of the association to promote wider skill development within the state.

Federal Government urges farmers to adopt organic farming

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Federal Government urges farmers to adopt organic farming

The Federal Government and key agricultural stakeholders have raised concern, calling on farmers and investors across the country to embrace organic farming for a healthier and more sustainable food system.

Speaking during the opening ceremony of the 9th National Organic and Agroecology Business Summit (NOABS), themed ‘Upscaling Common Market Platforms for Organic and Agroecological Products and Produce in Nigeria’, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, said that Nigerian farmers must not only embrace but also sustain organic farming practices as part of the country’s plan to improve food safety and public health.

Represented by an official of the Ministry, Williams Ekpe, Ogunbiyi stated that the Ministry has placed organic and agro-ecological principles at the center of its agricultural policies and programs to promote a more resilient and sustainable sector.

The two-day 2025 NOABS edition gathered government ministries, agencies, researchers, academia, investors, exhibitors, farmers, youth, and the media, highlighting the growing importance of organic agriculture to Nigeria’s future.

In his address, Ogunbiyi said, “Let’s make sure our smallholder farmers along with women and young people stay at the heart of these efforts right where real change begins. In the soil beneath their hands, representing the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, I am proud to reinstate our firm commitment to programmes that ensure a safe food system, restore healthy soil, and strengthen lasting livelihoods right down to the farms where fresh air still smells new after rain.”

He further stated that the Ministry is committed to mainstreaming organic and agro-ecological principles into national agricultural policies and frameworks, adding that the goal is to create an inclusive system that supports food security, climate action, and economic development.

“The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has made it a priority to mainstream organic and agro-ecological principles into national agricultural policies and programmes,” he said. “By actively partnering with respective governments, departments, academic institutions, and farmer organizations, we are facilitating a robust policy framework, quality assurance mechanisms, and strengthening the capacity of stakeholders involved in the regulation and production of organic products.”

Ogunbiyi noted that modern agriculture should go beyond productivity to embrace sustainability, inclusiveness, and innovation, emphasizing that organic farming and agroecology remain the future of food production.

He added, “Therefore, this summit gives stakeholders a rare chance to share ideas, build strong partnerships, and map out clear next steps to grow the organic and agro-ecological value chain from farm fields to food processing and market share. As we celebrate this Summit, I urge everyone to zero in on practical ways to expand organic farming and agro-ecological practices across Nigeria.”

Delivering the keynote address, the Mandate Secretary, Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Comrade Abdullahi Ango, represented by Mustapha Mohammed, described organic and agroecology-based practices as the best approach to food production. He stressed that these methods are not only profitable but also preserve the dignity of farmers while improving the environment.

“The best food production practice is the organic and agroecology approach, and therefore, farmers need to accept and adopt these practices for high profitability and dignity,” he said.

Also speaking, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Organic Agroecology Initiative of Nigeria (ORAIN) and Founder of Gotomo Farms, Abubakar Gotomo, explained that the goal of the Summit is to drive the nationwide adoption of organic farming to ensure the production of healthy food and environmental protection.

“We are promoting organic farming and ecological farming in order to protect our environment. We are into this after realizing the threat and the rapid degradation of our soil and the farmland as a result of excessive use of chemicals, chemical fertilizer, and other pesticides,” Gotomo said.

He warned that the excessive use of chemical inputs in agriculture is severely damaging farmlands and poses a serious threat to food security in Nigeria.

“So, the excessive use of chemical inputs into agricultural practices is gradually degrading our farmlands, which is a very, very serious threat to food security. So to safeguard that, we come up to ensure that our farmers are mobilized, our government is encouraged to embrace organic practice and respect agroecology,” he stated.

Gotomo also explained that agroecology respects the natural ecosystem, emphasizing that every element of the environment plays a role in maintaining balance. “Agroecology is to respect the nature, the ecosystem, each variable in the ecosystem is playing a key role in safeguarding the environment, may it be insects because there are useful insects. The trees are there that are helping us to get our oxygen that we are breathing,” he added.

He called on the Federal Government to establish an institutional framework to support and guarantee the practice of organic and agroecological methods across the country’s food systems.

The National Coordinator of ORAIN, Prof. Olugbenga Adeoluwa, also shared insights on the essence of the 2025 NOABS, saying the Summit aims to build strong synergy between government bodies and private sector organizations to deepen the adoption of organic and agroecology practices in Nigeria’s food systems.

“We are here to mark the 2025 edition of what we call the National Organic and Agroecology Business Summit, NOABS, which is a platform for networking and collaboration in organic and agroecological businesses in the country,” Adeoluwa said. “The system we are talking about involves the marketing of organic and agroecological produce and products in the country, which is intended to increase the potential of the sector in the country.”

He added that the organic farming sector goes beyond agriculture, connecting with areas such as health, environment, trade, tourism, and women’s empowerment.

“We are not just looking at agriculture, we are looking at it also from the perspective of health, from the perspective of trade, from the perspective of tourism, from the perspective of environment, from the perspective of women issues, from the perspective of both domestic and international export trade in different dimensions because organic and agroecology are not just issues of agriculture,” Adeoluwa explained.

According to him, organic farming and agroecology ensure food safety, promote healthy living, and protect the environment. “It is only in respect to that agroecology will ensure the safety of our environment, the increased productivity of food, which is safe, healthy and good to the human existence, and through this practice, we are so certain that food security will be achieved,” he stated.

FG launches AI training programme for teachers in Unity Colleges

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FG launches AI training programme for teachers in Unity Colleges

The Federal Government has officially launched the pilot phase of the Teachers on Artificial Intelligence (AI) training programme to equip educators with the knowledge and skills to integrate AI-powered solutions into Nigeria’s education system. The initiative represents a major step in aligning teaching and learning with the demands of the 21st-century digital economy, with teachers of Federal Unity Colleges serving as the first beneficiaries.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Education, Mr. Abel Olamuyiwa Enitan, emphasized the importance of technology in shaping the nation’s educational future. Represented by his Technical Aide, Mrs. Collins Callista, he said the programme would expose teachers to innovative AI-driven solutions that enhance teaching effectiveness and learning outcomes.

Enitan commended the International Community for Education Technology (ICEDT) for its role in advancing Nigeria’s educational development. He noted that Federal Unity Colleges hold a strategic position in the national education landscape, representing standards of quality, equity, and innovation.

He said, “I encourage all participants to actively engage in the training because the pilot phase is expected to generate reports that would guide the scaling up of the programme to all six geopolitical zones. The initiative is an open door to nationwide technological advancement in education and I call on teachers to make the most of the opportunity and emerge as champions who would extend the knowledge of AI in education to their peers.”

In her remarks, the Director of Education Support Services, Mrs. Larai Nana Ahmed, represented by the Deputy Director, School Support Division, Mrs. Ogbuke Njideka Dorothy, reiterated the ministry’s dedication to integrating digital technology into the education sector. She explained that the initiative aligns with the National EdTech Strategy and supports the Federal Government’s broader vision to prepare learners for a digital economy.

According to her, teachers play a central role in driving this transformation, which is why the programme begins with Federal Unity Colleges, known as the flagship of secondary education in Nigeria.

Delivering a goodwill message, the Head of Strategic Partnership and Learning Scientist at ICEDT, Dr. Abdurrahman Orasanye, described the project as a landmark achievement in the journey to transform education through innovation. He reaffirmed ICEDT’s commitment to collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Education and other stakeholders to ensure Nigerian teachers gain the competencies needed to thrive in a digitally driven world.

Kwara Futures Exhibition 2025 rewards student innovators N1.85m

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Kwara Futures Exhibition 2025 rewards student innovators N1.85m

The Kwara State Government, under the visionary leadership of His Excellency Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq CON, has successfully concluded the landmark Kwara Futures Exhibition 2025. The event was designed to showcase the creativity and innovation of young minds in technology, coding, and digital literacy across the state.

Championing the initiative, Ishola Kayode, the Special Assistant on Digital Innovations to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, described the exhibition as “a major step in promoting Digital Kwara and building a future-ready workforce capable of leading the state into the digital economy.”

The exhibition brought together outstanding projects developed by students from public schools across Kwara. Participants demonstrated exceptional skills in problem-solving, innovation, and digital technology. Projects ranged from app development to creative tech solutions addressing everyday challenges.

The event attracted notable government officials and representatives from leading technology organizations, including IHS Towers, Zinox, NigComSat, KidsTech Africa, W.TEC, stakeholders, developer partners, and several media houses. Their presence reflected strong collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving youth empowerment and technological advancement in the region.

The highlight of the event was the project award ceremony, which saw a total of N1,850,000 in cash prizes distributed to outstanding participants. United Junior Secondary School emerged as the overall winner, receiving N1,000,000 for their innovative project titled “Expense Visualiser.” Ilorin Grammar School took second place with their “Report Card Generator” project and received N500,000, while GGDSS Pakata claimed third position with their “Weather App” project, winning N250,000. The Best Instructor Award, worth N100,000, was presented to Salman Opeyemi Sulaiman for his dedication and mentorship.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration has continued to prioritize digital literacy and STEM education as part of its broader economic and human capital development agenda. The governor’s commitment to “empowering the youth with digital skills that will define tomorrow’s workforce” was evident throughout the exhibition.

“This exhibition is more than just a competition; it is a vision of the future we are building,” said a government representative during the ceremony.

The Kwara Futures Exhibition 2025 stands as a symbol of progress, innovation, and partnership, reinforcing Kwara’s position as a growing hub for digital transformation in Nigeria. Visitors were encouraged to watch the video highlights of the event to witness the creativity and energy of Kwara’s next generation of tech innovators.

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