Home Blog Page 322

GEAF Opens 2025 4.29 Green Earth Action Ambassador Programme

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
GEAF Opens 2025 4.29 Green Earth Action Ambassador Programme

The Green Earth Action Foundation (GEAF) has launched its flagship initiative, the 4.29 Green Earth Action Ambassador Programme, aimed at nurturing global environmental leadership and driving sustainable community projects aligned with the United Nations 2030 Agenda.

According to GEAF, the 2025 programme is designed to “cultivate environmental stewardship worldwide” by selecting motivated individuals from diverse backgrounds who demonstrate strong organizational skills and experience in community outreach. The Foundation noted that successful applicants will be chosen based on their alignment with GEAF’s mission and values.

The selected Ambassadors will engage in a five-month structured programme focused on training, mentorship, and project delivery. “The programme offers a structured learning and talent-development journey through our Training and Development sessions, covering outreach planning, advocacy, negotiation, and leadership,” GEAF stated. Each Ambassador will design and implement a community project within GEAF’s priority themes, supported by expert mentorship and one-on-one coaching.

The initiative will conclude on the annual 4.29 Green Earth Action Day, when all Ambassadors will present the outcomes of their community projects globally. “If you are ready to lead, learn, and deliver measurable change, we invite you to apply and help advance the 2030 Agenda, one community at a time,” the Foundation said.

GEAF emphasized that the programme offers multiple benefits including leadership development, global networking opportunities, professional mentorship, and practical experience in environmental sustainability. Participants will “gain tools in advocacy, negotiation, and project management” while connecting with other sustainability changemakers around the world.

The Ambassador Programme’s thematic areas include Forestry and Biodiversity, Environmental Education and Community Engagement, Waste Management and Pollution, Climate-Smart Agriculture, and Marine and Water Protection. These categories enable participants to address key challenges such as deforestation, pollution control, circular economy, and climate-resilient farming.

For Forestry and Biodiversity, the focus areas include forest restoration, wildlife habitat protection, and community-based forest management. Environmental Education emphasizes awareness campaigns, school programmes, and youth leadership development. The Waste Management theme promotes upcycling, zero waste initiatives, and plastic reduction, while Climate-Smart Agriculture centers on regenerative farming, soil health restoration, and farmer education. Marine and Water Protection highlights ocean cleanup, coral reef restoration, and improved water access.

To be eligible, applicants must show proven interest or experience in sustainability or community action, demonstrate leadership potential, and possess strong communication and organizational skills. Candidates must also commit to the full five-month training and development programme running from January to April 2026, with proficiency in English or French required.

The application process involves five stages: online application, screening and shortlisting, interview, final selection and notification, and onboarding and orientation. Required documents include a CV or resume, cover letter, project proposal letter, passport information page, a utility bill to confirm home country ties, and two references related to climate action or community outreach.

Interested candidates can apply through the GEAF application portal Link.

Advertisement

FG opens N1 trillion Real Estate Investment Fund for affordable housing

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
FG opens N1 trillion Real Estate Investment Fund for affordable housing

The Federal Government has opened direct retail investor participation in its N1 trillion housing funding scheme, designed to bridge Nigeria’s housing deficit and strengthen the domestic mortgage market. The initiative is expected to make homeownership more accessible through affordable mortgage options and long-term financing.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Olawale Edun, is scheduled to lead the official listing of the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI) Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF) at the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) tomorrow. The MREIF, which targets N1 trillion, has already launched two tranches valued at N250 billion each. Through the NGX listing, existing and new investors will be able to trade units of the real estate investment trust (REIT), allowing the fund to expand through additional issuances.

The MREIF is structured to provide affordable mortgage financing with repayment periods of up to 25 years. It offers interest rates that are significantly lower than commercial market rates and is designed to unlock value from public real estate assets through a transparent, market-driven platform. According to government officials, the listing on the NGX is expected to expand access to real estate investment, stimulate growth in the housing sector, and contribute to national development while offering investors competitive long-term returns.

Seed funding for the project was provided by the Federal Government, while private sector investors have been encouraged to participate in subsequent phases. Beyond housing, the listing marks a strategic policy shift from direct government spending to market-based social investment. This new model allows both the public and private sectors to collaborate in financing affordable housing sustainably.

By bringing the MREIF into the capital market, the government is creating an avenue for private and institutional investors to directly engage in real estate financing. This move is expected to mobilise long-term capital, deepen the Nigerian capital market, and improve liquidity in the housing finance ecosystem. The listing will also enhance transparency and accountability, as MREIF will comply with NGX disclosure rules, including regular financial reporting and investor oversight aimed at building confidence and ensuring efficient fund management.

Under the scheme, civil servants and other qualified Nigerians can access mortgage loans with a 10 per cent equity contribution and single-digit interest rates. This is a significant shift from the double-digit rates that have long limited affordable homeownership.

The MREIF is being implemented through a partnership involving MOFI, Family Homes Funds Limited (FHFL), and ARM Investment Managers, who are serving as the fund managers. Funding for the project has been structured to promote both affordability and sustainability. A key element of this structure is a credit line secured by FHFL from the African Development Bank (AfDB), aimed at reducing financing costs and making lower mortgage rates possible.

Managing Director of MOFI, Dr Armstrong Takang, described the initiative as a major milestone in the government’s commitment to promoting affordable homeownership across the country. “This is about ensuring that Nigerians can own homes at interest rates that make sense,” Takang said. “From the start, we set a ceiling of 12 per cent on mortgage rates under this fund, and we’re committed to bringing that down further. Today’s arrangement with Family Homes Funds allows us to offer single-digit rates below 10 per cent.”

He added that the government’s strategic focus is to continuously secure cheaper funding from both local and international sources, ensuring that savings are passed on to citizens through reduced mortgage rates.

The MREIF mortgage facility will be offered through selected commercial and mortgage banks licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). These institutions will disburse loans in accordance with standards set by the Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC) to ensure proper risk management.

National Coordinator of MREIF, Mr Sani Yakubu, said the programme was specifically designed to deepen mortgage penetration and make homeownership more achievable for Nigerians. “We are expanding the platforms through which Nigerians can access mortgage financing,” Yakubu stated. “The private sector is leading this effort, and the fund managers are working closely with financial institutions that have the regulatory capacity to deliver mortgage services.”

Yakubu disclosed that over 10 financial institutions have already been onboarded for the initial phase of the programme, with more partners expected to join in subsequent stages.

CDCFIB CBT guidelines and rules as exam begins November 12

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
CDCFIB CBT guidelines and rules as exam begins November 12

The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) has announced that the online Computer-Based Test (CBT) for shortlisted candidates will begin on 12th November, 2025. According to the Board, all applicants are required to strictly follow the stated examination guidelines to avoid disqualification.

Candidates are instructed to log in to the examination portal at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time for verification and system checks. “Late entry will not be permitted,” the Board stated. Applicants must ensure that their exam date, time, and login credentials match their registration record.

The CDCFIB also advised that candidates use a laptop, desktop, or smartphone with a working camera, microphone, and stable internet connection. “A selfie verification will be required and must match the image provided during registration before access is granted,” it added.

The examination will be proctored and monitored through live video and AI-assisted proctoring. Any suspicious movement, communication, or attempt to access other materials may result in instant disqualification. Candidates are further urged to report login or technical issues immediately through the official support portal.

They must remain on the exam interface throughout the test, as navigating away from the screen, switching tabs, or external communication will be automatically detected and flagged. The Board emphasized that participation outside the assigned date and time will lead to disqualification without appeal.

Ibeju-Lekki flags off Renewed Hope N100,000 cash transfer

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
Ibeju-Lekki flags off Renewed Hope N100,000 cash transfer

The Ibeju-Lekki Local Government has announced the flag off of the Renewed Hope 100,000 conditional cash transfer revalidation and account opening exercise. The event will begin on Monday, 10th November, 2025, at the Council Secretariat. According to the Public Affairs Unit, the programme will provide N100,000 conditional cash transfer to 4,000 residents in 20 months. The statement said the first batch of CCT beneficiaries should arrive by 09:00 a.m. for validation and payment.

Beneficiaries are instructed to come with their NIN slip, BVN, Permanent Voter’s Card, passport photograph, and a utility bill if available. The government explained that these are acceptable forms of identification by the bank. Announcing the exercise, Hon. Engr. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, called on beneficiaries to comply with the guidelines.

Akwa Ibom secures $1.2 billion EMEM FPSO investment

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
Akwa Ibom secures $1.2 billion EMEM FPSO investment

Akwa Ibom State is positioned to receive a major boost in its oil and gas sector following a $1.2 billion investment tied to the deployment of the EMEM Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessel to the Okwok Field in Mbo Local Government Area. The project is expected to expand Nigeria’s crude oil production capacity, increase foreign exchange earnings, and generate jobs within the host communities and across the upstream industry.

The EMEM FPSO is currently being constructed and converted at Dubai Drydocks World in the United Arab Emirates and will be deployed to the Okwok Field Petroleum Mining Lease (PML 15) once completed. The vessel is owned by Oriental Energy Resources Limited and is designed to process 40,000 barrels of oil per day, 70,000 barrels of liquid per day, and includes systems for produced water treatment, water injection, gas processing, gas lift, and gas injection.

With the ability to accommodate up to 100 personnel and equipped with a 12-point spread mooring system, the EMEM FPSO is described as a state-of-the-art facility. The project involves converting the Nordic Mistral, a double-hulled crude tanker with a storage capacity of one million barrels, into a fully integrated offshore production unit with a planned 15-year operational lifespan.

A delegation including Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno, Minister of State Petroleum Resources Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, and Chairman of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, inspected the vessel during the sailaway ceremony at the Dubai Drydocks facility. The visit marked another milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to improve energy production and technological capacity.

Governor Umo Eno praised the project, stating that it represents a significant step in Nigeria’s broader energy transformation. He noted that such investments directly contribute to job creation, export earnings, and national economic stability. According to him, the EMEM FPSO will bring substantial development opportunities to Akwa Ibom State and strengthen Nigeria’s oil sector.

Senator Lokpobiri acknowledged Oriental Energy Resources for its continued commitment to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. He highlighted that the project aligns with the government’s push to expand domestic value creation and sustain investment in the upstream sector. Engr. Komolafe also emphasized that the EMEM FPSO supports Nigeria’s target of achieving 70 percent local content within the oil and gas sector by 2025, reflecting increased technical capacity and reduced foreign dependency.

Chairman and Founder of Oriental Energy Resources, Dr. Muhammadu Indimi, spoke on the company’s journey toward becoming a fully independent operator in Nigeria’s offshore environment. He expressed appreciation to the Nigerian government for providing an enabling environment for indigenous firms. He reaffirmed Oriental Energy’s focus on long-term energy security, workforce development, and knowledge transfer to enhance Nigeria’s industrial capabilities.

Industry analysts have described the EMEM FPSO as a key demonstration of Nigeria’s growing technical self-reliance in offshore production. The project is seen as evidence that local firms can successfully execute large-scale operations, contributing to energy independence and local economic growth.

The vessel is scheduled to sail into Nigerian waters in the fourth quarter of 2025. Upon arrival, it will be linked to the existing Well Head Platform and five production wells, with first oil expected in the first quarter of 2026. This will mark Oriental Energy’s first independently delivered offshore production development.

The Okwok field development is expected to significantly increase Oriental Energy’s output and contribute to Nigeria’s efforts to meet production targets set by OPEC+. The project will also create direct and indirect employment in engineering, logistics, and support services. It is further expected to provide opportunities for host communities and local suppliers in line with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act.

The initiative is expected to enhance regional development in Akwa Ibom, with opportunities for community engagement, improved infrastructure, and increased commercial activity in Mbo Local Government Area. Stakeholders believe the project will draw further investment interest and strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s offshore energy operations in the coming years.

FG, Sokoto partner to boost local industrial production

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
FG, Sokoto partner to boost local industrial production

Nigeria’s drive toward industrialization continues to face challenges such as poor infrastructure, irregular government policies, shortage of energy supply, and overreliance on oil revenue. Over the years, several administrations have made efforts to diversify the economy and promote industrial growth, with mixed results.

In Sokoto State, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh, said the present administration is taking the issue of industrialization very seriously. He explained that the government has introduced rebate policies to fast-track economic diversification and support local industries.

According to the minister, President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of the “Nigerian First Policy” reflects the government’s commitment to prioritizing local production and promoting Nigerian-made goods and services. He noted that the policy is expected to drive innovation and productivity within the industrial sector.

“The policy is not just about growth; it also focuses on quality and competitiveness,” Senator Enoh stated. “Nigerians will not only rely on gas and oil but will increasingly invest in quality manufacturing and service delivery. We are committed to industrialization and to improving services by bringing them closer to the people.”

He expressed confidence that Nigerians would soon have access to better and healthier products in the market as a result of stronger collaboration between the federal and state governments, alongside private stakeholders.

The Sokoto State government has pledged to partner with the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to enhance the production of quality goods that meet national standards and protect consumers. This partnership signals a new stage in industrial development, aimed at boosting quality infrastructure and supporting sustainable economic growth across Nigeria.

House to partner Idealab to train 5000 youths in digital skills, agribusiness

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
House to partner Idealab to train 5000 youths in digital skills, agribusiness

The House of Representatives has announced a partnership plan with Idealab Agency, an international organization, to train 5000 Nigerian youths in digital skills, agribusiness and other business ventures. This was revealed during an interactive meeting in Abuja between the Chairman of the Nigeria-US Parliamentary Friendship Group, Hon. Okey-Joe Onuakalusi, the Director-General of Idealab Nigeria Limited, Mr Emmanuel Aondoaka, and the management team of the organization.

Hon. Onuakalusi stated that the training programme has the potential to support youth empowerment and improve economic development. He explained that the House is willing to support the initiative, but noted that funding will only be provided when the organization convinces the committee that it has clear training plans and the necessary approval documents from relevant government agencies. He said the House Committee will ensure that any programme that will benefit a large number of young Nigerians is included in the national budget.

He said there must be transparency and accountability in how funds are managed when released, adding that proper monitoring is necessary to ensure that the resources are used for the benefit of Nigerian youths.

In his presentation, the Director-General of Idealab Agency, Mr Emmanuel Aondoaka, said the organization has already secured the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria for the release of between N15 million and N75 million to support the training programme. He noted that when released, the funds will be disbursed to the 5000 beneficiaries through the Development Bank of Nigeria and the Bank of Industry to enable the smooth take-off of the initiative. He also said that the organization has concluded preparations for the training, including securing a certificate of registration from the Corporate Affairs Commission.

The Nigeria-US Parliamentary Friendship Group is one of the friendship groups created by the Speaker of the 10th House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, to strengthen relations between Nigerian lawmakers and members of the United States Congress.

FG distributes 60,000 digital tablets to boost teacher Training

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
FG distributes 60,000 digital tablets to boost teacher Training

The Federal Government has introduced landmark reforms to transform Nigeria’s education sector into a digitally connected, data-driven, and professionally anchored system. The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, announced this at the 69th National Council on Education (NCE) Ministerial Session held in Akure, Ondo State.

Dr. Alausa stated that the theme, “Quality Education Data and Professionalisation of Teaching: Tools for Enhanced National Development,” aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He revealed that the Federal Executive Council has approved the National Education Repository and Databank (NERD), a central platform for certificate verification and education data coordination, and the Digital Nigerian Education Management Information System (DNEMIS) for real-time school mapping and analytics.

The Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) has been digitised to streamline registration, exams, and licence renewals, with over 60,000 digital tablets distributed for continuous professional development. The new Dual Mandate Policy now empowers Federal Colleges of Education to award both NCE and degree certificates.

Dr. Alausa reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to inclusive, technology-driven, and globally competitive education. The Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, and Ondo State Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, pledged continued collaboration to advance education quality nationwide.

NYSC announces physical verification for foreign-trained graduates 2025 batch C

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
NYSC announces physical verification for foreign-trained graduates 2025 batch C

The National Youth Service Corps has issued a notification to all Foreign Trained Nigerian Graduates concerning the physical verification of credentials and travel documents for the 2025 Batch C Service Year. The statement explained that after completing online registration, Prospective Corps Members whose documents have not yet been verified are required to attend the physical exercise scheduled from Monday, 10th to Wednesday, 12th November, 2025.

The designated verification centres include NYSC Secretariat, 2 Abakaliki Road, G.R.A, Enugu State; Shadawanka Military Barracks, Bauchi, Bauchi State; NYSC Orientation Camp, Kubwa, Abuja; Bukavu Military Barracks, Fagge, Airport Road, Kano; NYSC Orientation Camp, Iyana Ipaja, Lagos; NYSC Secretariat, New Ikirun Road, Osogbo, Osun State; NYSC Secretariat, 40 Ikwerre Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State; Eagle Officers Mess, Gingiya Military Barracks, Gusau Road, Sokoto; and NYSC Secretariat, Federal Secretariat Complex, Yola, Adamawa State.

Management stated that “as part of the measures to ensure orderliness and avoid overcrowding, Prospective Corps Members are expected to strictly report on the date, time, and venue specified on the verification slip.” The notification added that individuals must present all original credentials and travel documents that were uploaded during registration to support verification and identity confirmation.

For medical graduates, the NYSC further noted that they are required to upload and also bring along their professional licenses, registration certificates, and other relevant documents issued by accredited medical bodies. Those with evaluation letters from the Federal Ministry of Education must submit the original copies at the NYSC Headquarters in Abuja and upload the acknowledged copies online to complete their documentation.

The NYSC emphasized that only persons physically seen with their credentials, physically verified, and officially cleared will be deployed, exempted, or excluded from national service. This serves as an important compliance step for national service participation.

Niger State suspends employment of Casual Workers

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
Niger State suspends employment of Casual Workers

Niger State Government has announced the suspension of the engagement of casual workers across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). The directive was contained in a circular dated 7th November 2025 from the Office of the Head of Service at the Abdulkareem Lafene Secretariat in Minna, signed by the Head of Service, Abubakar Sadiq Idris. The circular was addressed to the Chief of Staff, Deputy Chief of Staff, Secretary to the State Government, Clerk of the House, Permanent Secretaries, and Heads of Parastatals and Extra Ministerial Departments to ensure compliance.

According to the circular, “The Office of the Head of Service has noticed with great concern the barrage of applications for conversion of casual workers to permanent and pensionable staff by some Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) despite the ongoing recruitment exercise by the Civil Service Commission.”

It directed that “all MDAs are hereby directed to suspend the employment of casual workers with immediate effect.” It added that MDAs wishing to retain casual workers must pay them the minimum wage. For essential services including cleaners, security personnel, and drivers, the state instructed MDAs to outsource these roles rather than continue casual engagements. The move is aimed at ensuring proper recruitment standards and promoting efficient service delivery in the state civil service.

The circular reminded Heads of MDAs to adhere strictly to approved processes for filling vacancies in order to maintain transparency in public sector jobs and government employment procedures.

It further warned that failure to comply would attract sanctions, stating, “Any form of noncompliance by MDA and/or contravening the provision of this circular will leave this office with the option of invoking the provision of the Civil Service Rules on defaulters.”

1...321322323...666Page 322 of 666