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Gov Otu inaugurates C’River College council, unveils social investment programme

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Gov Otu inaugurates C’River College council, unveils social investment programme

Governor Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River State has inaugurated the Governing Council of the Cross River State College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, Obubra, charging members to drive innovation, research and ethical governance to advance agricultural education and food security.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony at the State Executive Chambers in Calabar, Governor Otu stressed that agriculture remains the backbone of the state’s economy and a major driver of employment, industrialisation and poverty reduction.

“Agriculture is the mainstay of our State’s economy and a unique sector that can lift our people out of multidimensional poverty because of its boundless value-chain potentials and food security guarantee,” the governor stated.

In another move to expand the frontiers of government’s responsibility and ensure citizens across all strata benefit directly from the state’s development agenda, the governor also unveiled the Cross River Social Investment Programme (CRSIP).

He said the initiative was created to cushion the pressure of dwindling resources through an integrated approach that involves the government, private sector, manufacturers and the people. “In times when resources are limited,” he explained, “the only sustainable path forward is to strengthen shared responsibility, where energy, enterprise and empathy converge for the common good.”

The governor emphasised that the new programme would reach every part of the state, deepening the impact of his administration’s People First philosophy. “This is not just another policy; it is a people-centred covenant,” he said. “Through the Cross River Social Investment Programme, we are ensuring that the benefits of governance seep into every household, particularly among the less privileged and those facing sanitation and welfare challenges.”

Governor Otu described the College of Agriculture, Science and Technology as a vital institution for producing middle-level manpower that would sustain the state’s agricultural transformation agenda. He urged the new Governing Council to “hit the ground running” by creating strategic policies that promote academic excellence and foster research-driven solutions in agriculture.

“Today’s world is driven by innovation and technology. You must encourage research that increases crop yield, reduces labour intensity, maximizes land use, and drives the agricultural revolution in our state.”

The governor tasked the Council to identify short and long-term infrastructural needs for government consideration, stressing that financial transparency and community harmony must guide their administration. “My government is anchored on ethical governance; financial probity must be your watchword,” he charged. “You are expected to account for every fund allocated to your institution.”

He also called for cordial relations between the College and its host community, urging proactive engagement and patronage of local services such as security, cleaning and gardening to strengthen community cooperation.

Responding on behalf of the Council and management, the Chairman, Prof. Gertrude Njar, thanked the governor for the trust reposed in them, describing their appointment as a favour with quantum of grace. “We assure you that we will approach this assignment with dedication, diligence and unwavering commitment.”

Prof. Njar commended Governor Otu for the swift passage of the College of Agriculture (Amendment) Bill, which upgraded the institution to a College of Agriculture, Science and Technology, describing the legislative process as “record-breaking and unprecedented.”

She highlighted the vast potentials of the College in agro-based ventures such as poultry, fish, honey and snail farming, as well as grasscutter rearing, which, she said, could boost the state’s internally generated revenue and enhance youth training and employment.

“The College has the potential to contribute immensely to environmental sustainability through tree planting, which will improve forest cover, reduce carbon emissions, and mitigate ozone layer depletion.”

Njar appealed to the governor to address key infrastructural and logistical challenges facing the institution, including poor funding, dilapidated buildings, lack of vehicles, electricity, water supply and accommodation for staff and students.

“Of about 15 existing buildings, only two are not leaking,” she lamented. “There is no electricity on campus, the generators are grounded, and water supply is grossly inadequate. We appeal for urgent intervention to enable us function effectively.”

Prof. Njar assured the governor that the Council would not disappoint the confidence reposed in it and pledged to work in alignment with the administration’s ethical governance principles and agricultural development vision.

The Governing Council has Sir Bebia Ekpang and Lazarus Izabi-Undie as members. The institution’s management team is led by Prof. Irom Okey, Rector, alongside Dr. Gabriel Osang, Registrar; Mr. Ignatius Ugbeshe, Bursar; Dr. Veronica Adinya, Librarian; Joseph Eyamba, Director of Physical Planning; and Melody Abeng, Director of Works.

Under the CRSIP, two key committees are to be constituted. The first, known as the Cross-Value and Partnership Committee, will coordinate multi-sectoral projects that address the peculiar needs of various social groups. Governor Otu said the committee would “serve as a bridge of collaboration between government and society, harnessing value chains and partnerships that empower people to thrive in dignity.”

The second committee, to be called Project UOPE (Universal Opportunity Programme for Empowerment), will provide renewed hope and purpose for the elderly and vulnerable members of society. “Our elders deserve to live their twilight years with pride and comfort. Through Project UOPE, we will restore not only their livelihoods but also their sense of belonging and value within our communities.”

Each of the committees will have a chairman and eight members drawn from diverse sectors, reflecting balance, inclusivity and merit. According to the governor, “every member of these committees will be chosen based on integrity, compassion and competence; not on politics or privilege.”

Governor Otu further directed that both committees should identify 50 youths and 50 adults in every ward across the state, cutting across political, gender and ethnic boundaries. “This process will be transparent, fair and purely merit-driven,” he assured. “We will ensure that every Cross Riverian, irrespective of creed, status or political leaning, has a stake in this transformative journey.”

The governor also underscored the importance of gender balance, stating that equal representation of men and women would be non-negotiable. “A society cannot stand on one leg,” he said. “For development to be sustainable, both men and women must walk hand in hand, building together, dreaming together and succeeding together.”

He said the Cross River Social Investment Programme embodies his administration’s unyielding devotion to human development and inclusive governance. “This is what the People First agenda truly means,” he declared. “It is about governance that listens, leadership that serves and progress that touches every life. With CRSIP, we are building not just a stronger economy but a fairer and more compassionate society.”

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Oluremi Tinubu inaugurates 10 NITDA digital learning centres

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Oluremi Tinubu inaugurates 10 NITDA digital learning centres

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu (CON, OON), has inaugurated and handed over ten newly established Digital Learning Centres across the country, marking a major step in the Federal Government’s ongoing drive to strengthen digital literacy, innovation, and inclusion. The initiative aligns with the administration’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s digital economy and preparing citizens for global competitiveness.

The inauguration ceremony, attended by First Ladies from ten states, highlights the Federal Government’s goal of establishing 592 Digital Learning Centres nationwide. So far, 296 centres have been completed, while 176 are currently under construction. The project is being implemented by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative of the Office of the First Lady.

In Nasarawa State, the centre was launched at the Ta’al Model e-library within the NASITDEA complex by the state’s First Lady, Hajiya Silifat Abdullahi Sule, who represented Senator Oluremi Tinubu during the simultaneous state-level inauguration. The facility aims to boost access to digital education, promote innovation, and create opportunities for young people and women to participate in the digital economy.

Speaking at the event, NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to expanding digital literacy and innovation across Nigeria. He said the centres would “serve as platforms for skills development, job creation, and technological advancement,” aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of achieving 95% digital literacy by 2030.

The inauguration brought together First Ladies from Nasarawa, Abia, Edo, Delta, Ondo, Kano, Katsina, Lagos, Yobe, and Zamfara States, representing the regions benefiting from the current phase of the national digital learning programme.

In an exclusive interview, the Director General of the Nasarawa State Information Technology and Digital Economy Agency (NASITDEA), Haruna Sani Sani (C.ITP, MCPN), described the launch as a “timely and visionary step” toward empowering young Nigerians and promoting digital inclusion. “This initiative was designed with young people in mind,” he said. “It’s about building connectivity and transforming mindsets. Several states are already reaping the benefits, and Nasarawa State is fully embracing the opportunity to equip its youths with essential digital skills.”

He added that with the support of NITDA and the First Lady’s Renewed Hope Initiative, the project demonstrates the state’s strong commitment to building ICT capacity, innovation, and human capital development in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.

UNIPORT invites applicants for recruitment CBT test

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University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) has announced that all candidates who applied for various positions are invited to take part in the Computer-Based Recruitment Test.

In a statement released on the official recruitment portal, the institution said, “All applicants are hereby advised to visit the University’s recruitment portal at https://careers.uniport.edu.ng/, print their application details from the portal, and come along with the printed copy on the day of the test.”

The management urged candidates to take the notice seriously and comply with all instructions to ensure a smooth recruitment process. Applicants are encouraged to check the portal regularly for updates.

News Update:

Applicants can check the recruitment test schedule via this Link.

UNILAG warns content creators to get approval before filming on campus

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UNILAG warns content creators to get approval before filming on campus

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has issued a notice addressing the rising use of its premises, including hostels and other facilities, for filming and video content without proper authorisation. The management stated that several individuals have been engaging in the shooting of skits, vox pops, and other cinematographic activities on campus without approval.

According to the University, there are already established procedures guiding the use of its environment for any kind of recording or production. The statement explained that these rules are meant to “ensure safety, decorum, and integrity of our academic and residential spaces, as well as protect the image and reputation of the University.”

The management emphasised that all students, staff, and external collaborators intending to carry out any filming or video project within the University premises must first obtain permission. “Requests for approval should be sent to the Communication Unit, 7th Floor, Senate House, UNILAG, Akoka,” the statement read.

While noting that the institution supports creative expression and digital content production, the University maintained that such activities must follow its official guidelines. It advised all members of the community and the general public to comply with the directive in the interest of order, safety, and collective responsibility.

WAEC conducts trial essay test ahead of 2026 computer-based WASSCE

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WAEC conducts trial essay test ahead of 2026 computer-based WASSCE

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has conducted a trial test on essay writing ahead of the Computer-Based WASSCE for School Candidates scheduled to begin in 2026. The exercise was led by the Head of WAEC’s Nigeria National Office, Dr Amos Dangut, on Thursday at the WAEC Training and Testing Centre, Ogba, Lagos.

Senior secondary school students took part in the test, which was designed to familiarise them with the new computer-based format that combines both objective and essay components. According to Dangut, the initiative aims to prepare candidates for full digital examination participation while bridging technological gaps among schools across the country.

Recall that the council had, in September, reaffirmed its plan to migrate the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) to a fully Computer-Based Test (CBT) format by 2026. It noted that the transition, which began with private candidates in 2024, has already made “significant progress” and will be expanded nationwide before next year’s deadline.

Addressing the students, Dangut said they were making history as the first group to attempt a full computer-based test combining both objectives and essays. He explained that while some schools will take both components online, others in areas without computer access will continue using the traditional essay format.

“Our goal is to create an inclusive system where every student can write conveniently, regardless of location,” Dangut stated. He added that the new system would make the examination more efficient and accessible, ensuring fairness and comfort for all participating candidates.

Dangut reaffirmed WAEC’s commitment to maintaining the integrity and credibility of its examinations while helping students achieve academic excellence. He also urged students to embrace digital learning, describing technology-driven examinations as the future of education and a key to global competitiveness.

BudgIT demands full disclosure on FG’s N32.9bn health fund disbursement

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BudgIT demands full disclosure on FG’s N32.9bn health fund disbursement

BudgIT Foundation, through its Tracka initiative, has filed a Freedom of Information (FOI) request to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare regarding the third-round funding disbursement of ₦32.9 billion under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF). The civic organisation said it seeks full disclosure of how the funds are being distributed to over 8,000 health facilities across the country.

In the letter dated October 23, 2025, and addressed to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, BudgIT requested detailed data on the disbursement process. The organisation asked for “the complete list of the 8,000+ health facilities that are meant to benefit from the recent third-round funding amounting to ₦32.9 billion,” along with their precise locations and “the amount allocated and disbursed to each of the 8,000 facilities.”

Tracka, a programme under BudgIT, stated that the request was made “pursuant to the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011.” The organisation explained that the purpose of the inquiry is to promote transparency and accountability in the implementation of the BHCPF, adding that citizens deserve access to verifiable information on how health funds are utilised.

According to the FOI request, “all things being equal, ₦50.6 million per 774 LGAs or ₦4.9 million per 8,000 facilities are mere speculative figures; Nigerians need to get the facts and figures to #FollowTheMoney.” BudgIT added that the information could be shared in soft or hard copy, preferably in a machine-readable format such as Excel or CSV, to enable efficient tracking of fund usage.

The letter signed by Osiyemi Joshua, Head of Tracka, read: “We are committed to driving transparency and accountability in this important project, ensuring that funds are effectively utilised for the intended purpose of improving primary healthcare delivery. We believe that access to this information will enable us to continue our oversight role and contribute positively to the success of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund initiative.”

The organisation requested that a response be issued within seven days as stipulated by the FOI Act. It also provided contact details including its Abuja office and official email address for correspondence.

This request follows the earlier report by Nigeriastartupact.ng that the Federal Government had launched the BHCPF Guideline 2.0, which aims to institutionalise performance-based financing and accountability in health funding. Prof. Muhammad Pate had stated that the ₦32.9 billion allocation would be disbursed to states and facilities before the end of October, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive for transparency and effective use of public resources.

“In line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s charge for transparency, accountability, and efficient use of public and partner resources, the Expanded Ministerial Oversight Committee for the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative met to review collective progress in strengthening Nigeria’s health system,” Pate said in an earlier statement.

He noted that the Initiative, launched in 2023, has improved healthcare delivery across the country. “In the first two quarters of 2025, over 80 million visits were recorded at primary health facilities, four times more than in 2023. More than 21 million Nigerians are covered under health insurance, over 11,000 pregnant women have received emergency care, and 15,000 benefited from obstetric treatment,” he said.

The minister added that “facility data show a 12 percent drop in maternal mortality” while preventive health outcomes have improved, with major campaigns on measles, rubella, polio, and neglected tropical diseases achieving strong coverage in northern states.

Prof. Pate confirmed that the BHCPF-supported facilities would expand from 8,800 to 13,000 and later to 17,000 through the HOPE Programme. Facility allocations were also increased from ₦300,750 to between ₦600,000 and ₦800,000 per quarter.

He explained that “a Joint Task Force with ICP Nigeria has been activated to monitor fund utilisation at both facility and community levels, ensuring that public resources directly translate to improved services for Nigerians.”

Pate also mentioned ongoing reforms for data accuracy, noting that “instances of overreporting of maternal and child deaths are being addressed through improved verification systems, digital reporting, and integration of NINs into health records.”

BudgIT’s latest FOI request builds on these government claims, urging full disclosure of how the ₦32.9 billion is distributed and monitored. The organisation said it is waiting for an official response from the Ministry to confirm whether the funds have reached all designated facilities and are being used as intended.

Attached below is a copy of the FOI request.

NDDC excludes online university candidates from local scholarship payment

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NDDC excludes online university candidates from local scholarship payment

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has issued an important update to all shortlisted candidates who participated in the recently concluded Local Post Graduate Scholarship Programme.

According to the Commission, the Local Post Graduate Scholarship payment is a one-off payment. Candidates are reminded that all those who submitted admission letters from non-conventional universities must obtain valid admission letters from conventional universities before the 3rd of November 2025.

The NDDC emphasised that, “All successful scholars will be paid subject to verification in their various universities.” The Commission further noted that online scholars will not be accepted because such institutions cannot be verified. Examples of these include distant learning platforms such as the National Open University, MIVA University, and other online learning institutions. The Commission clarified that it is a full-time based scholarship programme.

It also stated that admission letters without an address, seal, or stamp will not be accepted. Only candidates who successfully completed the Computer Based Test, oral interview, and obtained a valid admission letter from a conventional university will qualify for payment under the NDDC Local Scholarship Programme.

“All valid admission letters obtained from a conventional university should reach the Directorate of Education, Health and Social Services on or before 3rd November 2025,” the statement added. Failure to meet this deadline will result in forfeiture of the scholarship.

NEC approves Tinubu’s plan to revamp security training institutions

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NEC approves Tinubu’s plan to revamp security training institutions

The National Economic Council (NEC) has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposal for a complete overhaul of training institutions for security agencies across Nigeria. The move is part of the federal government’s effort to strengthen national security architecture and professional standards within the nation’s armed and paramilitary forces.

The decision was reached at the 152nd NEC meeting held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The proposal, presented by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, is tied to the President’s broader vision of building a trillion-dollar economy through strong governance, security reforms, and human capacity development.

To actualise this plan, NEC approved the formation of a high-level committee chaired by Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, to oversee the revamp of police and security training facilities nationwide. The committee is expected to submit a detailed blueprint within one month, outlining steps for rehabilitation, modernization, and efficient management of these institutions.

Other members of the committee include Governors Uba Sani of Kaduna, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Kefas Agbu of Taraba, Umoh Eno of Akwa Ibom, Dauda Lawal of Zamfara, and Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa, while former Inspector General of Police, Baba Usman, will serve as secretary.

Speaking at the meeting, President Tinubu said the condition of existing training centres has fallen below acceptable standards, adding that his administration is determined to reverse the decay and restore quality to the security sector.

“We have to make the conditions of the training facilities more conducive for both the trainers and trainees,” Tinubu said. He stressed that well-equipped and properly maintained institutions are crucial for the performance and discipline of security personnel who protect lives and property nationwide.

NEC reviews Tinubu’s trillion-dollar economy plan

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NEC reviews Tinubu’s trillion-dollar economy plan

The National Economic Council (NEC) has reviewed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria to achieve a trillion-dollar economy by 2033, describing it as a national ambition that requires strong coordination, clarity, and commitment across the federal, state, and local governments.

The discussion took place at the 152nd NEC meeting held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, following a detailed presentation by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu. The minister outlined key strategies and policy pathways for realizing the trillion-dollar goal, emphasizing the need for consistent investments in security, infrastructure, and human capital.

According to Bagudu, achieving such a scale of economic growth demands cooperation among all tiers of government to address challenges affecting productivity and stability. The minister’s presentation highlighted that President Tinubu’s economic vision integrates fiscal reforms, private sector partnerships, and improved resource management to create sustainable national wealth.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who chaired the meeting, underscored the importance of translating the optimism of citizens into measurable prosperity in homes and communities. He told state governors that the true test of governance lies not in policy declarations but in the tangible improvement of citizens’ lives.

“The measure of government is not in speeches delivered; it is in the lives improved,” the Vice President said. He called on governors to align state-level economic policies with the federal government’s reform agenda to ensure collective progress.

Shettima explained that the trillion-dollar economy vision represents more than a financial target. He said it reflects Nigeria’s determination to build resilience, create jobs, and strengthen its position as Africa’s largest economy through innovation, macroeconomic stability, and inclusiveness.

“This ambition requires coordination across the federation. It is our duty as a Council to interrogate the pathways, to assign responsibilities, and to ensure that our targets are realistic, time-bound, and transparent to the citizens who expect results,” he stated.

He added that the roadmap aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises job creation, food security, subnational competitiveness, and economic diversification as the anchors of sustainable growth.

The Vice President also pointed out that the Council’s discussions extended beyond economic indicators to the structural reforms needed to make Nigeria’s economy more productive. He said deliberate planning, transparent governance, and accountability at all levels remain key to achieving the trillion-dollar benchmark within the projected timeline.

NEC members commended the presentation and reiterated their commitment to supporting the federal government’s economic vision. They agreed that the pursuit of a trillion-dollar economy would not only strengthen Nigeria’s global competitiveness but also expand opportunities for citizens in key sectors such as manufacturing, technology, energy, and agriculture.

The Council further resolved to integrate state-level economic plans with national objectives and ensure that each region contributes effectively to Nigeria’s overall economic transformation.

NEC endorses Katsina’s KASPA digital agriculture model

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NEC endorses Katsina’s KASPA digital agriculture model

The National Economic Council (NEC) has commended the Katsina Sustainable Platform for Agriculture (KASPA), describing it as a forward-looking innovation that can transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector through technology and data-driven solutions.

The commendation followed a presentation at the 152nd NEC meeting held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Innovation, Nasir Yammama, highlighted KASPA as a model of digital governance and agricultural modernization.

KASPA, developed under the leadership of Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, is designed to empower smallholder farmers, strengthen agribusiness value chains, and improve service delivery using digital platforms. The model leverages data, climate information, and market linkages to make farming more efficient and profitable.

Speaking at the meeting, Vice President Shettima praised the initiative and urged other state governments to adopt similar frameworks to boost agricultural productivity and inclusiveness. He noted that technology-based governance will play a central role in achieving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the federal government’s broader goal of economic diversification.

“Earlier this week, at the invitation of His Excellency, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, I was in Katsina State. One of the progressive projects we launched is the Katsina Sustainable Platform for Agriculture, known as KASPA. It is a scalable framework for digital governance, farmer inclusion, and climate-smart productivity ready for sub-national adoption,” the Vice President said.

He explained that the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to technology-enabled governance that bridges the gap between policy and practical results. “The story of Nigeria’s recovery will not be written by chance but by choice—by the deliberate actions we take to protect our economy, safeguard our environment, and uphold the welfare of our citizens,” Shettima added.

Presenting the concept in detail, Nasir Yammama told the Council that KASPA focuses on integrating farmers into the digital economy by providing them with access to real-time agricultural data, extension services, and market networks. He said the platform has been developed as a scalable solution that can be replicated in all six geopolitical zones to address challenges limiting agricultural productivity in Nigeria.

According to Yammama, KASPA’s framework combines modern data systems with field-level activities to connect farmers with essential resources and policy support. He added that the model encourages collaboration between government institutions, the private sector, and local communities to drive innovation and resilience in agriculture.

Following the presentation, NEC commended the innovation and urged state governments to adopt the KASPA model in their regions to unlock the full potential of agriculture and enhance food security. Council members agreed that embracing such digital frameworks will help address challenges such as low yields, limited access to markets, and the effects of climate change on rural livelihoods.

The Council also directed the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to include in its 2026 budget the establishment of agriculture data and control centres in all six geopolitical zones. The centres will serve as hubs for collecting and analyzing data to guide policy and decision-making across the agricultural sector.

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