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AGILE distributes 9894 scholarship ATM cards to girls in Gombe state

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AGILE distributes 9894 scholarship ATM cards to girls in Gombe state

The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project in Gombe State has distributed 9,894 ATM cards to beneficiaries across eight local government areas. The areas covered include Akko, Gombe, Dukku, Kaltungo, Balanga, Kwami, Billiri, and Shongom.

According to the project team, the remaining local government areas yet to receive their cards are Nafada, Funakaye, and Yamaltu Deba, where a total of 2,207 ATM cards are set to be distributed soon. The ATM cards allow beneficiaries to access the girls’ scholarship funds designed to support the education of 12,101 adolescent girls in the first cohort of the AGILE project.

The Gombe State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Aishatu Umar Maigari, expressed satisfaction with the progress of the AGILE initiative. She said, “The strategy adopted by AGILE to reach out to the beneficiaries is commendable, and I urge caregivers to utilize the funds accordingly for the purpose it was meant.”

Monitoring the exercise in some schools, the Project Coordinator, Dr. Amina Haruna Abdul, commended the smooth conduct of the process. She assured that all verified beneficiaries would receive their ATM cards within the stipulated period.

Dr. Amina added that those who submitted wrong National Identification Numbers (NIN) are being attended to, as the project compiles correct numbers to effect necessary corrections.

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NJFP 2.0 reschedules cbt exams, to announce new date after November 12

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NJFP 2.0 reschedules cbt exams, to announce new date after November 12

The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) has officially announced the rescheduling of the Computer-Based Test (CBT) for the NJFP 2.0 cycle. According to the management, the new examination date will be announced after November 12, 2025.

In a notice released by the NJFP Management Team, all previously scheduled CBT exams have been postponed. The statement explained that, “The new dates will be communicated directly to applicants via their registered email addresses.”

The management noted that no CBT examinations will hold before November 12, 2025. This adjustment, according to the NJFP, is to allow more time to properly educate and prepare all applicants and potential candidates for the upcoming assessments.

“The NJFP team appreciates the patience and understanding of all participants as we work to ensure a smooth and transparent testing process,” the statement added. Applicants are advised to regularly check their emails and official NJFP channels for updates.

FG launches galaxy backbone 1Gov cloud for digital governance

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FG launches galaxy backbone 1Gov cloud for digital governance

The Federal Ministry of Environment has officially joined Nigeria’s digital transformation drive with the launch of the Galaxy Backbone 1Government Cloud Digitalisation Programme. The initiative marks a major step in the Federal Government’s effort to modernise public service operations and strengthen data sovereignty across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Abuja, the Honourable Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, described the initiative as “a milestone in modernising environmental governance and advancing Nigeria’s sustainability goals through technology.”

“Digitalisation is no longer optional; it is a necessity,” the Minister said. “Through the Galaxy Backbone 1Government Cloud, we are enabling data-driven environmental management, eliminating paperwork, reducing operational costs, and directly cutting carbon emissions.”

He noted that the adoption of digital tools would enhance transparency, promote evidence-based policymaking, and improve service delivery to citizens.

The Permanent Secretary, Mahmud Adam Kambari, commended the Minister for championing the transition to paperless governance, praising the Galaxy Backbone (GBB) 1Government Cloud Team, led by Mr Wumi Oghoetuoma, for providing a secure and indigenous digital platform for government operations.

In his remarks, Wumi Oghoetuoma, Programme Director of the 1Government Cloud Digitalisation initiative, described the programme as “a bold stride in Africa’s digital transformation journey.” He said, “The Galaxy 1Government Programme is leading public sector digitalisation—in Africa, for Africa, by Africa. This is not just about technology; it is about protecting our digital destiny and sovereignty.”

Oghoetuoma explained that the 1Government Cloud offers a suite of homegrown applications designed to replace fragmented and foreign systems. These include GovECM for enterprise content management, GovDrive for secure file storage, GovESign for digital signatures, GovMail for official communication, GovInMail for secure inter-MDA messaging, GovConference for virtual meetings, GovAssetManager for asset tracking, and GovOTP for multi-factor authentication.

He further disclosed that the Ministry of Environment has successfully gone live on the GBB 1Gov Enterprise Content Management System (ECMS), with 15 offices and departments already onboarded, 316 workflows created, and 890 user accounts activated.

Also speaking at the event, Dr Sam Nwosu, Chief Executive Officer of Secured Records Management Solutions Ltd, praised the initiative as proof of Nigeria’s ability to build world-class digital infrastructure. “We have the talent to build globally competitive software right here in Nigeria,” he said. “This is a leap toward technological self-reliance, I’m so excited I feel like breakdancing!”

The Ministry’s adoption of the 1Government Cloud aligns with the Federal Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (FCSSIP) 2021–2025, particularly Pillar 5 on the Digitalisation of Content and Services. It also reflects the leadership of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Esther Didi Walson-Jack, whose reform agenda has accelerated Nigeria’s paperless transformation.

The event drew directors, department heads, and partner organisations, marking a significant milestone in the Ministry’s journey toward a fully digital and sustainable public service.

Lagos trains over 600 students in software quality assurance bootcamp

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Lagos trains over 600 students in software quality assurance bootcamp

The Lagos State Government has empowered more than 600 undergraduates with hands-on technology skills in Software Quality Assurance (SQA) during a free, three-week bootcamp aimed at preparing students for global opportunities in the tech industry.

The training initiative was organised by the Office of the Senior Special Adviser (SSA) to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Students’ Union Affairs and Tertiary Education, Kappo Olawale, in collaboration with Korrekt Tech and the Ministry of Tertiary Education. The programme took place simultaneously at the College of Health Technology, Yaba, the Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH), Ikorodu, and the Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Otto-Ijanikin.

According to Mr Olawale, the initiative was part of the state government’s continuous effort to equip students with practical and relevant tech skills. He said the programme aligned with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s vision to build a generation of skilled, creative, and future-ready students capable of thriving in a technology-driven economy.

“This administration is committed to giving Lagos students not just a voice but a vision, and we are encouraging them to leverage this opportunity to connect leadership with technology-driven innovation,” Mr Olawale said.

He described Software Quality Assurance as a vital 21st-century skill that helps ensure inclusivity while preparing graduates to compete globally. “Technology is reshaping education and leadership, making this bootcamp essential for nurturing practical skills and the right mindset to excel in today’s digital economy,” he added.

Mr Olawale encouraged participants to apply their new knowledge by launching digital literacy projects, creating tech hubs, or forming mentorship groups across their campuses to drive community development and innovation.

Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Sule Tolani, who attended the grand finale, commended the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that enhances students’ employability in the ICT and tech-driven sectors. He said the training cut across various disciplines, reflecting the government’s recognition that every profession now depends on ICT for learning, productivity, and innovation.

Mr Tolani stated, “The Lagos State Government is committed to improving the quality of graduates beyond classroom learning through exposure to practical and industry-relevant programmes like the SQA bootcamp.”

He added that the training would strengthen students’ problem-solving abilities and prepare them for real-world challenges in software testing, cybersecurity, and emerging digital fields.

Founder of Korrekt Tech, Rudwan Abdulazeez, also praised the participants for their dedication and enthusiasm, saying their feedback was highly encouraging. He noted that SQA professionals play a critical role in identifying and fixing software issues before deployment, preventing costly system failures.

“Poorly tested applications have caused significant financial losses for some banks. SQA experts are essential in ensuring software reliability, security, and user satisfaction,” he said. Mr Abdulazeez called on investors and corporate organisations to support the initiative to ensure sustainability and wider reach.

David Oluwasegun, President of the Students’ Union at LASUSTECH, expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government and the SSA’s office for creating such an impactful platform for young people. He appealed for stronger ICT infrastructure across campuses, including improved internet access and free WiFi, to promote continuous learning.

“We have learnt a lot and are ready to apply it. We will appreciate more platforms that support ongoing training and project implementation,” Mr Oluwasegun said.

Adegbite Daniel, a representative of the LASUED Students Executive Council, described the bootcamp as an innovative step toward equipping students with practical knowledge beyond classroom theories. He commended Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to youth empowerment through tertiary-level technology initiatives and urged the organisers to sustain the momentum through regular follow-up programmes.

Dean of Students Affairs at LASUSTECH, Ikorodu, Ademola Aderogba, said the programme addressed a vital need among students and would contribute greatly to their academic and professional development. “This is an extension of classroom lectures. Exposing students to practical training, workshops, and seminars like this broadens their perspective, enhances employability, and prepares them for real-world challenges in the technology-driven era,” he said.

Kano startup weekend 2025 calls for media, photographers, videographers

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Kano startup weekend 2025 calls for media, photographers, videographers

Kano State is gearing up for an exciting event as organizers announce a call for media houses, photographers, and videographers to join in capturing the maiden Kano Startup Weekend. The event, organized under the patronage of His Excellency Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, aims to showcase innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship in the state.

According to KASITDA, “With your lenses, we can tell unforgettable stories and be a part of the historical event.” The Kano Startup Weekend 2025 invites interested partners to participate and help document the event’s energy and impact. Interested media can contact info@kasitda.ng for participation details.

Katsina launches specialized training for youth mechanics at craft village

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Katsina launches specialized training for youth mechanics at craft village

Katsina State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment, innovation, and industrial growth under the leadership of Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda. The Governor has approved a specialized technical training programme for mechanics of the Central Mechanical Workshop at the Katsina Youth Craft Village (KYCV), in collaboration with Autogig International Resources Ltd., Lagos.

The specialized training, which began yesterday and will continue until November 3, aims to enhance the technical competence, innovation mindset, and hands-on skills of KYCV mechanics in line with global automotive standards. The programme focuses on modern vehicle systems, advanced diagnostics, electric and hybrid technologies, IoT-enabled diagnostics, CNG kit installation, and workshop management. It combines classroom learning with hands-on sessions to provide participants with practical exposure to emerging automotive technologies.

Speaking on the initiative, the Coordinator of the Katsina Youth Craft Village, Engr. Kabir Abdullahi, described the Governor’s approval as a visionary and transformative gesture. He said it reflects the administration’s deep belief in the power of technical education to transform lives and communities.

He stated, “What His Excellency has done is more than just approving training; it is an investment in the future of Katsina’s young people. This programme will open doors for our mechanics to learn the most modern automotive techniques that align with global best practices. They will be exposed to innovations reshaping the vehicle industry, including hybrid systems, digital diagnostics, and alternative energy technologies. This kind of practical training is what turns ordinary craftsmen into master technicians.”

Engr. Abdullahi further explained that the Central Mechanical Workshop is being repositioned to serve as a centre of excellence for automotive innovation and training. According to him, young mechanics will continually upgrade their knowledge and become self-reliant professionals contributing to the state’s industrial development.

“We are grateful to Governor Radda for his foresight and his continuous investment in the Katsina Youth Craft Village. He is not just providing opportunities; he is building capacity, restoring dignity to technical labour, and giving our youths a platform to dream beyond the ordinary. This is how societies grow, through knowledge, skill, and vision,” he added.

A major highlight of the initiative is the ongoing discussion between Autogig International and the Katsina Youth Craft Village, aimed at strengthening institutional collaboration and ensuring sustainable technical development. The discussions, which will lead to signing a Memorandum of Understanding, cover areas such as authentic and affordable spare parts supply, joint technical research, staff training, and industry linkages with major automotive manufacturers.

This collaboration is expected to help reposition the Katsina Youth Craft Village as a trusted, government-backed hub for modern vehicle repair, diagnostics, and innovation in Northern Nigeria. It also aligns with the broader agenda of creating skilled jobs, promoting sustainable development, and driving industrial growth within the state.

Facilitated by top industry experts, the training exposes participants to the latest innovations in electric and hybrid vehicle systems, digital fault detection, and clean energy conversion. It also emphasizes leadership, teamwork, and workshop management, which are essential skills for building professional discipline and ensuring sustainable workshop operations.

The Youth Craft Village Transformation Programme, under which this initiative falls, remains one of the flagship interventions of the Katsina State Government’s Building Your Future agenda. Its core objective is to nurture a generation of skilled, self-reliant, and entrepreneurial youths equipped with the technical knowledge to drive industrial and technological advancement across the state.

Through this initiative, the Katsina State Government continues to demonstrate its commitment to empowerment through education and skills development, ensuring that young people are employable and capable of creating opportunities and innovations.

Governor Dikko Radda’s administration remains focused on transforming vocational and technical training centres across Katsina into vibrant, innovation-driven institutions. By aligning practical learning with industry demands, the government is laying the foundation for a stronger, self-reliant, and economically viable Katsina built on knowledge, skill, and creativity.

Katsina, Qatar Charity sign MoU to empower citizens

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Katsina, Qatar Charity sign MoU to empower citizens

Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has reaffirmed his administration’s strong commitment to partnerships that improve the lives of citizens, especially women, children, youth, and vulnerable groups.

The Governor stated this during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Katsina State Government and Qatar Charity Nigeria. The agreement marks a new phase of cooperation in humanitarian and social development across the state.

Governor Radda described the MoU as the formalization of an existing partnership that has already made an impact in the areas of empowerment, healthcare, and education. “We truly appreciate your continued support,” the Governor said. “Your assistance has helped improve the lives of our people. You were here recently to distribute empowerment kits, and those items have brought real relief to many families across the state.”

He explained that the signing gives structure to a long-standing relationship between both parties. “This signing creates shared responsibilities. As a government, we will fully meet our commitments and ensure the sustainability of all Qatar Charity projects in Katsina,” he added.

The Governor praised Qatar Charity for its generosity and enduring partnership. “Even before this formal signing, Qatar Charity has done a lot for Katsina State. We remain deeply grateful for your continued interventions,” he said.

Radda also called for additional support in education. “We would like to see in Katsina the same multi-purpose educational projects you have built in other states. Our people deserve such impactful initiatives, and you can always count on us as a reliable partner,” he stated.

He assured that his government would implement the agreement with transparency and accountability, emphasizing that it aligns with his Building Your Future development agenda, which focuses on human capital development. “Our goal is to strengthen the institutions that directly touch people’s lives such as schools, hospitals, and empowerment centres. Partnerships like this help us reach those goals faster,” the Governor added.

In his remarks, the Qatar Charity Country Director to Nigeria, Mr. Assem Abu Al Shaer, reaffirmed the organization’s support for Governor Radda’s vision through practical projects that impact communities directly. Mr. Al Shaer commended the Governor’s people-focused leadership and transparency, noting that such values attract credible international partners to the state.

As part of the new MoU, Qatar Charity announced the donation of more medical equipment to improve healthcare delivery. Under this commitment, all newly renovated Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) will receive Electronic Blood Pressure Machines, while 15 General Hospitals will be supplied with Electric Wheelchairs to support physically challenged patients.

Mr. Al Shaer explained that the donation aligns with Qatar Charity’s global mission to strengthen health systems and improve access for vulnerable groups. He also pledged continued partnership with the Katsina State Government in health, education, and empowerment initiatives.

The MoU defines the roles of both parties. Qatar Charity, an international NGO registered under Nigerian law, is the First Party, while the Katsina State Government is the Second Party, committed to policies that enhance citizens’ welfare. The agreement covers key intervention areas including education through school construction, scholarships, and materials; healthcare through medical outreaches, surgeries, and facility upgrades; social housing; empowerment programmes with sewing machines, motorcycles, and farm tools; as well as water supply, food security, and relief support.

Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser on Girl-Child Education, Hon. Jamila Abdu Mani, who facilitated the MoU through her office, expressed optimism about its impact. “This collaboration will open new doors of opportunity for our women and girls,” she said. “We are proud to have facilitated this partnership and look forward to the positive results it will bring to education, healthcare, and social welfare.”

The partnership strengthens Governor Radda’s ongoing reforms in the health sector. His administration has been renovating and equipping hospitals and PHCs while recruiting health workers to enhance service delivery, especially in rural areas.

With the latest intervention from Qatar Charity, access to healthcare at both primary and secondary levels is expected to improve significantly, particularly in underserved communities.

Governor Radda’s administration continues to earn the trust of credible international organizations through transparency and a people-centered approach. The new partnership adds to the growing list of collaborations driving progress in education, healthcare, and social development in Katsina State.

“This MoU represents hope and shared humanity,” the Governor said. “Together, we are showing that compassion, when institutionalized through partnership, can transform lives and build a better future.”

The event ended with Governor Radda reaffirming that humanitarian partnerships remain at the heart of his mission to uplift lives and secure a future of dignity and opportunity for all Katsina citizens.

Dignitaries at the event included the Chief of Staff, Abdulkadir Mamman Nasir; Principal Private Secretary, Abdullahi Aliyu Turaji; Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Fadila Mohammed Dikko; and Special Adviser on Girl-Child Education, Hon. Jamila Abdu Mani.

INEC urges Anambra 2025 ad-hoc staff to complete e-school training

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INEC urges Anambra 2025 ad-hoc staff to complete e-school training

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that all ad-hoc staff participating in the upcoming Anambra Decides 2025 election must complete their online training through the INEC e-School platform ahead of the November 8 poll.

According to INEC, the Learning Management System (LMS) was developed by The Electoral Institute (TEI) with the support of the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), USAID, and FCDO to improve the quality and accessibility of electoral training.

“This system is designed to enhance the overall effectiveness of electoral training through a combination of face-to-face and virtual methods,” TEI explained. The platform integrates text-based materials, audio lessons, and videos to ensure interactive learning and better understanding for all users.

INEC described the e-School as a user-friendly platform with carefully structured courses aimed at strengthening the capacity of poll workers, INEC officials, and the general public.

“Ad-hoc staff are advised to log in now and complete their courses at inecschool.org to be fully prepared for their roles,” the statement added.

World Bank plans $14bn AgriConnect program to boost agribusiness by 2030

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World Bank plans $14bn AgriConnect program to boost agribusiness by 2030

The World Bank has announced plans to deploy up to $14 billion by 2030 to strengthen global agribusiness through a new initiative known as AgriConnect. The programme, introduced during the World Bank Group–International Monetary Fund Annual Meetings themed “From Sectors to Systems: Building Job-Rich Economies at Scale,” aims to transform smallholder farming from subsistence to profit-oriented ventures.

According to the World Bank, AgriConnect is expected to create millions of jobs and improve food systems and rural livelihoods in low- and middle-income countries. The initiative will focus on scaling up investments that drive inclusive growth, job creation, and economic resilience in developing regions.

World Bank President Ajay Banga described the initiative as a significant change in how the institution supports development projects. He said the Bank is moving away from funding isolated projects toward building broader economic ecosystems that can deliver sustainable employment and growth. “We’ve set a target to double our agribusiness commitments to $9bn annually by 2030, aiming to mobilise an additional $5bn,” Banga said during the launch event titled “AgriConnect: Farms, Firms, and Finance for Jobs.”

He added, “This is grounded in what we’ve tested in the field and in lessons borrowed from others. Steal shamelessly and share seamlessly; that is how we succeed together.”

The World Bank noted that family farms, including over 500 million smallholders, produce about 80 percent of the world’s food supply. However, many of these farmers remain in poverty due to limited access to markets, financing options, and modern agricultural technology. Through AgriConnect, the Bank is calling on governments, private investors, and donor agencies to collaborate in closing these gaps and turning agriculture into a key driver of employment and sustainable economic growth.

The programme’s priorities include improving infrastructure, investing in digital agriculture technology, and advancing policy reforms that can enhance productivity. These efforts are designed to help farmers better integrate into value chains, access financial services, and expand business opportunities.

Ajay Banga stressed that job creation remains at the heart of the World Bank’s mission to end poverty and promote a livable planet. He highlighted that with over one billion young people set to enter the global workforce in the next decade, agriculture holds one of the largest potentials for widespread job generation. “Jobs remain the most reliable route out of poverty,” Banga said. “They provide dignity, stability, and hope. Through AgriConnect, we are connecting the dots between farms, firms, and finance to deliver those opportunities at scale.”

During the Annual Meetings, broader discussions were held on building job-rich economies, bringing together leaders from governments, civil society, and the private sector. The World Bank’s Development Committee, representing all 189 member nations, reaffirmed its commitment to making the institution faster, more effective, and better equipped to achieve tangible impact.

On the sidelines, the Leaders’ Speaker Series featured notable global figures, including Dr. Mona Mourshed, CEO of Generation, and Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Egypt’s Minister of Planning and International Cooperation. Both speakers shared perspectives on how aligning education, innovation, and policy can accelerate job creation.

The launch of AgriConnect concluded a week of events focused on partnership, trust, and collaboration as essential elements for sustainable global development.

Kano conducts post-funding verification at School of Midwifery Gwarzo

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Kano conducts post-funding verification at School of Midwifery Gwarzo

The Kano State Health Trust Fund (KHETFUND) has carried out a post-funding verification exercise at the School of Midwifery, Gwarzo, following its financial intervention of N1.878 million to support the school’s Final Qualifying Examination. The fund was disbursed on June 10, 2025, to assist the institution in ensuring a smooth and credible examination process for its graduating midwifery students.

The verification visit, which took place on Friday, October 24, 2025, was part of KHETFUND’s efforts to strengthen accountability, transparency, and quality assurance in the management of public health funds. The team assessed the utilization of the fund and evaluated the outcomes of the intervention to confirm that the objectives were achieved.

Speaking during the visit, the Executive Secretary of KHETFUND, Dr. Fatima Usman Zahraddeen, represented by the Director of Special Duties, Hamisu Abubakar, emphasized the importance of the verification exercise. She explained that the post-funding review is a key part of KHETFUND’s strategy to ensure that resources are used effectively and deliver tangible results in the health sector.

Dr. Zahraddeen reaffirmed the Fund’s commitment to supporting health institutions across the state through financial assistance, infrastructure development, and continuous monitoring to guarantee sustainability and impact. “Our goal is to strengthen the capacity of training institutions in the health sector and ensure that every naira invested translates into measurable impact. The verification exercise allows us to confirm that interventions are implemented as planned and contribute meaningfully to the improvement of healthcare delivery in Kano State,” she stated.

She further explained that KHETFUND, as a government agency established to provide sustainable financing for the health sector, operates on principles of accountability and transparency. “As a government agency established to provide sustainable financing for the health sector through strategic and accountability-driven interventions, the overall mission of KHETFUND is to improve the quality, accessibility, and efficiency of healthcare delivery in Kano State, as in tandem with the vision of the present administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf,” she added.

During the exercise, the verification team reviewed documentation related to the disbursed funds and interacted with the management of the School of Midwifery, Gwarzo. The team commended the school’s management for their cooperation and dedication to maintaining high standards in midwifery education.

In her remarks, the Principal of the School of Midwifery, Gwarzo, Asiya Sani, expressed deep appreciation to KHETFUND for its timely intervention. She noted that the support significantly improved the school’s capacity to conduct the final examinations efficiently. “This support came at a critical time and ensured that our students had a conducive environment to successfully complete their training. We are grateful to KHETFUND, headed by the Executive Secretary Dr. Fatima Usman Zahraddeen, for its continued investment in strengthening midwifery education in the state,” she said.

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