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Gov Bago declares free education for 809 students at Abdulkadir Kure University

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Gov Bago declares free education for 809 students at Abdulkadir Kure University

Niger State Governor, Farmer Mohammed Umaru Bago, has declared tuition-free education for 809 newly admitted students of Abdulkadir Kure University Minna (AKUM) for the 2024/2025 academic session. The announcement was made during the matriculation ceremony of the new students held at the university in Minna.

Governor Bago, known for his agricultural-driven leadership style, said the state government has also allocated 2% of the total state investment as an endowment fund for the university. According to him, this initiative is part of efforts to make the institution a model for others in the country.

The farmer governor explained that Niger State is focusing on educational development to boost innovation and local capacity. He announced the cancellation of the previous plan to sponsor students abroad for foreign scholarships, noting that the funds would now be invested in improving facilities and programs within the state.

“It is not wrong for a leader to make a statement and retract the statement. We had a vision to take some students to foreign land on scholarship, but today, I have cancelled that decision. I will rather invest the money budgeted for the foreign scholarship here,” he said.

Governor Bago also revealed plans to build a housing estate for staff and lecturers of the university and announced that the Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences will commence operations from the next academic session. He congratulated the matriculated students and urged them to be good ambassadors of their families, promising each of them a bursary award of N100,000.

The Vice Chancellor of AKUM, Prof. Mohammed Aliyu Paiko, praised the gesture, describing it as a life-changing opportunity for the students. He encouraged the 809 new students to view their matriculation as the start of a transformative journey that would shape their future. Prof. Paiko emphasized that the university is committed to equipping students with the skills and innovative mindsets required to become job creators in today’s competitive economy.

He further commended Governor Bago’s green economy initiative, noting that the university is aligning with the policy to produce graduates who will drive sustainable agriculture, biotechnology, medical and environmental sciences, ICT, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy for long-term environmental stability.

The Pro Chancellor of AKUM, Prof. Muhammad Yahaya Kuta, described Governor Bago as a visionary leader who understands that education remains the foundation of development. He said the governor’s investment in the younger generation through education and the knowledge industry reflects his commitment to building a prosperous Niger State.

Oluremi Tinubu, NITDA launch Digital Learning Centre in Edo

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Oluremi Tinubu, NITDA launch Digital Learning Centre in Edo

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has commissioned a Digital Learning Centre at Ujabhole Grammar School, Irrua, Edo State, under the Renewed Hope Initiative. The project aims to promote digital literacy, enhance access to quality education, and bridge the educational divide in Nigeria.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, which was held simultaneously across ten states in the country, Senator Tinubu explained through a virtual connection that the initiative is designed to empower Nigerians with essential information communication technology (ICT) skills. She said the project aligns with the mandate of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to drive digital inclusion and expand learning opportunities.

In her words, “Today’s commissioning presents another opportunity under the mandate of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, to further expand digital access across the country by providing communities with the resources required to develop ICT skills, thereby empowering our people to participate meaningfully in the digital economy.”

She added that the project supports the Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on diversifying Nigeria’s economy through digitalization. Senator Tinubu urged beneficiaries, particularly young people, to make full use of the facilities to improve learning, creativity, entrepreneurship, and national development.

The Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, emphasized that the initiative aims to transform Nigeria by empowering citizens with digital knowledge that drives innovation, economic diversification, and inclusive growth. He revealed that the government plans to establish 592 digital learning centres across the country by 2027, focusing on digital inclusion and access, especially for women and youths.

According to Abdullahi, “The goal is to empower citizens with the digital skills needed to improve their livelihoods and contribute to national growth. Digital literacy benefits everyone, from farmers and traders to entrepreneurs, by increasing opportunities, productivity, and revenue.”

The Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady in Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, expressed appreciation to Senator Tinubu and other stakeholders for their efforts in promoting technology-driven education. She highlighted that the new Centre represents a strong commitment to innovation and the use of digital tools for educational progress.

“I am deeply honoured to speak to you today as we gather to commission the Digital Learning Center, established by Her Excellency, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu through her pet project, the Renewed Hope. This Digital Centre stands as a testament to our dedication to revolutionizing learning through technology. Our students will gain the necessary skills to compete and excel in the 21st-century economy,” Mrs. Anani said.

She encouraged students to take advantage of the Digital Learning Centre, describing it as a hub for knowledge, creativity, and innovation. Mrs. Anani also urged teachers to integrate digital tools into classroom activities to enhance learning outcomes. She reaffirmed her office’s commitment to promoting education, innovation, and empowerment, stating that education remains key to unlocking young people’s potential and driving national development.

The Principal of Ujabhole Grammar School, Mr. Asemota Unity, expressed gratitude to the First Lady and Mrs. Anani for their efforts in promoting digital learning. He called for the deployment of digital-based teachers to ensure that the Centre achieves its full potential, adding that the school remains committed to providing quality education.

Teachers and students of the school also appreciated Senator Tinubu for the ICT facility, describing it as a major step forward in improving their academic experience. They said the Digital Learning Centre, facilitated through the Renewed Hope Initiative, would help students gain essential ICT skills and better prepare them for opportunities in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.

Katsina State approves new welfare projects for civil servants

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Katsina State approves new welfare projects for civil servants

The Katsina State Executive Council, led by Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has approved a new set of strategic projects and programmes aimed at improving the welfare of civil servants and the people across the state.

The approval was granted during the 16th Regular Council Meeting held at the Upper Chamber of the General Muhammadu Buhari House, Katsina, and presided over by Governor Radda.

Speaking after the meeting, the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Culture, Dr. Bala Salisu Zango, explained that the Council considered and adopted key recommendations under the Rumbun Sauki Programme, one of the state government’s major welfare initiatives designed to ease the living conditions of civil servants.

According to Dr. Zango, the newly approved measures under the Rumbun Sauki Programme include a downward review of commodity prices in all Rumbun Sauki stores across the state. He said this decision is targeted at making essential goods more affordable and reducing the financial pressure faced by workers and their families.

He added that the Council also approved the establishment of a new warehouse in Malumfashi metropolis to serve as a distribution centre for surrounding Local Government Areas. The new facility will make it easier for residents in nearby communities to access affordable goods and services offered through the Rumbun Sauki scheme.

“These decisions are part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen motivation and productivity within the civil service,” Dr. Zango stated.

He further noted that all the approvals made during the meeting are aligned with Governor Radda’s Building Your Future blueprint, a people-focused agenda aimed at promoting security, economic growth, and sustainable community development.

“These decisions clearly show that Governor Dikko Umaru Radda’s administration is not only building physical infrastructure but also investing in people, institutions, and human capital that will sustain Katsina’s progress for generations to come,” Dr. Zango concluded.

Katsina Govt approves new phase of Building Your Future youth empowerment

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Katsina Govt approves new phase of Building Your Future youth empowerment

The Katsina State Executive Council, led by Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has approved a new phase of youth empowerment programmes under the “Building Your Future” initiative. The approval was granted during the 16th Regular Council Meeting held at the Upper Chamber of the General Muhammadu Buhari House, Katsina, which was presided over by Governor Radda.

The Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Aliyu Lawal Shargalle, announced the Council’s decision, explaining that the new phase will focus on training and engaging young people across all 34 Local Government Areas of the state in vocational and technical skills. He said the initiative aims to make youths self-reliant and productive members of society.

“This programme is a major component of the Radda administration’s youth-focused agenda, creating opportunities that prepare young people for meaningful participation in the economy,” Hon. Shargalle said.

He congratulated Katsina youths on the new approval, adding that it demonstrates the government’s determination to ensure they become active, self-sufficient, and contributing citizens.

Dr. Bala Salisu Zango also highlighted that the “Building Your Future” initiative reflects Governor Radda’s strong commitment to youth development and sustainable livelihoods. He emphasized that no society can thrive without empowering its young people to take charge of their future.

In his contribution, the Honourable Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, Engr. Sani Magaji Ingawa, revealed that the Council also approved the upgrading and renovation of the Katsina State Youth Craft Village Department building. He explained that the project will provide modern training facilities and expand the centre’s capacity to accommodate more vocational and technical programmes.

“This initiative reflects Governor Radda’s continuous effort to empower young people through practical skills and vocational training, enabling them to become self-reliant and productive citizens,” Engr. Ingawa stated.

Dr. Zango further added that the government’s investment in the Youth Craft Village underscores the Governor’s determination to build an ecosystem of innovation, skills, and entrepreneurship that will transform the lives of thousands of Katsina youths and strengthen the state’s economic growth.

FG to draft new strategic plan for oil and gas sector

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FG to draft new strategic plan for oil and gas sector

The Federal Government has inaugurated a high-level committee to develop a new strategic plan aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s oil and gas sector in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, the National Development Plan (NDP) 2021–2025, and the Nigeria Agenda 2050.

Speaking at the inauguration in Abuja on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Dr. Emeka Vitalis Obi, mni, said the move is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional coordination, ensure accountability, and deliver measurable outcomes across the oil and gas value chain.

Dr. Obi explained that upon assumption of duty, he observed the absence of a consolidated and forward-looking sectoral strategic plan that clearly articulates the Ministry’s priorities, performance benchmarks, and accountability frameworks. He emphasized that the new direction will align with the Federal Government’s economic recovery and diversification agenda.

He noted that although the oil and gas sector contributes about 6.4 percent to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and accounts for over 85 percent of export earnings and 50 percent of fiscal revenues, it remains faced with major challenges such as infrastructure decay, declining crude oil production, and the impact of global energy transition. According to him, Nigeria’s production currently averages around 1.45 million barrels per day, below the OPEC quota of 1.8 million barrels per day.

Dr. Obi stated that the new strategic plan will serve as an operational guide to reposition the Ministry and its agencies for sustainable growth, improved performance, and stronger inter-agency coordination among stakeholders including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA), Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), and Petroleum Training Institute (PTI).

According to him, the plan will integrate key reforms under the PIA and define measurable performance indicators in areas such as gas monetization, domestic refining, energy transition, and fiscal optimization. It will also align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on economic diversification, job creation, and energy access.

Dr. Obi added that the plan would prioritize stabilizing upstream production, expanding midstream infrastructure, promoting transparency in the downstream market, deepening local content and skills development, and establishing digital governance systems using data analytics and real-time performance monitoring.

He disclosed that the committee is expected to produce a comprehensive Strategic Plan for 2025–2030, a Petroleum Sector Road Map, and a Monitoring and Evaluation Framework that will guide policy implementation, budgeting, and stakeholder engagement within the Ministry of Petroleum Resources and its agencies.

Obi urged members of the committee to show patriotism, creativity, and diligence in carrying out their assignments. He described the initiative as a legacy project that will strengthen policy implementation and reposition Nigeria as a competitive player in the global energy sector. “The plan we envision must speak to our realities, leverage our opportunities, and position Nigeria as a competitive player in the evolving global energy landscape,” he said.

The committee members include Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, MPR, Usman Abdulkadir, who serves as Chairman; Tende D. A, Engr. Oladipo Agboola, Dahiru Abdullahi, Oge Osuji, Ladi Orokpo, Ikpeme Peter, Dr. Uranta Kingsley, Ogidikpe Ayauge, Ajogi B. Omasa, Luka Timothy Agyo, and Ali Lenkat Amos.

From the agencies under the supervision of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, members include Dr. Omafume Orji (PTI), Ahmed Adam (PTI), Zainab Okwuer (NNRA), Hadiza Ahmed (NNRA), Orji Colins (NNRA), Imasuen W. A (NUPRC), and Aloga M. O (NUPRC).

In his remarks, the Director of Planning, Research and Statistics and Chairman of the Committee, Mr. Usman Abdulkadir, said the initiative is in line with the government’s directive to craft a forward-looking strategic plan that reflects the priorities of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He stated that the composition of the committee was designed to ensure inclusiveness, institutional ownership, and broad-based expertise across all agencies and departments within the Ministry. Abdulkadir also reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to delivering a practical and realistic framework that will strengthen Nigeria’s oil and gas governance and enhance transparency, accountability, and sustainable energy development.

TVET trainees to be paid ₦22,500 monthly, centres ₦45,000 per trainee

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TVET trainees to be paid ₦22,500 monthly, centres ₦45,000 per trainee

The Federal Government has started the training of about one million Nigerian youths under the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) initiative of the Federal Ministry of Education.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa (CON), announced this during an inspection visit to some TVET partner centres in Abuja, including AFS Vocational Hub in Garki and Golden Finger Farms and Ranches Limited along the Kubwa-Zuba Expressway.

Dr. Alausa revealed that over 250,000 trainees are currently participating in the first phase of the programme across 2,600 centres nationwide. He described the initiative as “a major step in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to empower young Nigerians with employable and entrepreneurial skills.”

He explained that while 86 trades were initially identified, 28 key skill areas were selected for implementation. These include fashion and garment making, livestock production, plumbing, GSM repair, tiling, and farming. The Minister noted that the TVET curriculum is “90 percent practical and 10 percent theoretical” to give participants hands-on experience.

According to Dr. Alausa, over 1.3 million applications were received when the registration portal opened, and 960,000 youths were verified through their NIN and BVN to ensure transparency. He said the government decided to pay training centres directly to prevent fraud.

Each trainee receives a monthly stipend of ₦22,500, which covers ₦17,500 for upkeep and ₦5,000 for transport allowance. Training centres receive ₦45,000 per trainee monthly for instructional support. Graduates will also be given starter packs to help them begin small-scale businesses.

Dr. Alausa stressed that the initiative shows the President’s “strong commitment to youth development,” adding that the government has ensured sustainability through incremental funding and collaboration with the Bank of Industry to provide single-digit loans to graduates. He reaffirmed that the Federal Government will expand the programme nationwide to make skilled Nigerian youths drivers of innovation and national productivity.

Claims Fidelity denies N70,000 YEIDEP payment as applicants crowd banks

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Claims Fidelity denies N70,000 YEIDEP payment as applicants crowd banks

Trending on social media are claims of applicants flooding banks nationwide to register for a N70,000 monthly empowerment programme tied to the Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP).

Some netizens claimed to have seen large crowds gathered at branches of some YEIDEP partner banks, including Keystone and Fidelity. This followed viral social media posts urging applicants to bring their Bank Verification Number (BVN), National Identification Number (NIN), and passport photographs for registration.

In response, latest claims surfacing online state that Fidelity Bank Management has reportedly issued an important notice on the Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme.

“Dear Customer,

Please be advised that, although Fidelity Bank is one of the approved partner banks under the Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP), we are not aware of any directive requiring customers to open an account in order to receive N70,000 under the programme previously known as the Nigerian Youth Economic Engagement and De-Radicalization Programme (NIYEEDEP).”

“Kindly note that any request to open an account will be treated solely as the customer’s formal request to open an account, and not as a prerequisite to qualify for, or receive, any N70,000 payment.”

Previously, Nigeriastartupact.ng reported Fidelity Bank’s message which notified candidates to note that “an account will be considered inactive after six months of no customer-initiated transactions (either credit or debit), regardless of the account balance.” The bank, like other YEIDEP partner banks, advised YEIDEP hopefuls to fund their accounts and perform basic transactions such as airtime purchases to keep them active. Some applicants already obtained their YEIDEP ATM cards.

YEIDEP disbursement of between N50,000 and N500,000 was rumored to begin between October 20 and 30, 2025, but as of now, there have been no confirmed payments yet.

Attached below is a copy of the ‘unverified’ Fidelity notice in circulation:

Circular claims NUC approves 13 new university degree programmes

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Circular claims NUC approves 13 new university degree programmes

A trending online circular has revealed that the National Universities Commission (NUC) has approved thirteen new degree programmes for Nigerian universities. The official notice, dated October 22, 2025, and signed by the Office of the Executive Secretary, referenced as NUC/ES/138/VOL.66/31, was addressed to all Vice-Chancellors of Nigerian universities.

According to the document, the new approval serves as an addendum to the Core Curriculum and Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS) for universities across the country. The Commission stated that the move aims to enhance academic quality, promote innovation, and align Nigerian university education with global trends in emerging fields.

“The National Universities Commission is pleased to inform all Nigerian Universities that the Commission has approved thirteen additional programmes to the Core Curriculum and Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS),” the circular read.

The Commission added that experts from the Nigerian University System had earlier developed 70% of the content for the new programmes in March 2025. This initiative, according to the NUC, underscores its commitment to strengthening quality assurance and improving academic relevance across tertiary institutions.

The approved programmes include B.Sc. Artificial Intelligence, B.Ed. Classical Christian Education, B.Ed. Human Kinetics (Sport Management), B.Eng. Geomatics Engineering, B.CHS Community Health Sciences, B.Sc. Intelligence and Security Studies, B.Sc. Islamic Economics and Finance, B.Sc. Parasitology and Entomology, B.Sc. Telecommunication Science, B.Sc. Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, B.Sc. Cooperative Economics and Management, B.Sc. Nuclear Science, and B.Eng. Nuclear Engineering.

The NUC further instructed universities to circulate the approved CCMAS documents to relevant faculties and departments, develop the remaining 30% institutional-based curriculum, and begin implementation by the 2025/2026 academic session following Resource Assessment Visits.

Ibom Air signs ₦200m sponsorship deal with Akwa United FC

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Ibom Air signs ₦200m sponsorship deal with Akwa United FC

Ibom Air has signed a landmark sponsorship deal with Akwa United Football Club, the 2021 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions and two-time FA Cup winners, marking a new chapter in sports and private sector collaboration in Akwa Ibom State.

The agreement, announced today at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, establishes Ibom Air as the Official Sponsor of Akwa United FC. The sponsorship deal is valued at ₦200,000,000 for an initial two-year period and includes both cash and in-kind contributions, with 50 percent of the total value provided in kind. The event attracted key figures from the sports industry, government officials, and media representatives, highlighting the significance of the partnership to the state’s sporting development.

Speaking during the ceremony, Mr. George Uriesi, Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, said the partnership demonstrates the airline’s commitment to community growth through strategic social investments. He explained that Ibom Air’s corporate social responsibility focuses on four key pillars — Health, Community Development, Education, and Sports — and the collaboration with Akwa United aligns perfectly with these values.

“At Ibom Air, our core pillars of support are Health, Community Development, Education, and Sports. And what better time than now to invest in sports? Akwa United, a club with a proud championship history, is currently rebuilding. Our goal is to support their resurgence, to help them rise again, back to the top of the league and beyond,” Uriesi stated.

He added that the sponsorship reflects Ibom Air’s belief in the unifying power of sports to inspire young people, promote excellence, and strengthen state pride. According to him, the airline’s involvement goes beyond branding and is aimed at making a real difference in the local sports ecosystem.

Mr. Joseph Eno, Chairman of Akwa United FC, expressed gratitude to Ibom Air for what he described as timely and strategic support. He said the sponsorship will go a long way in boosting team morale and enhancing performance as the club works toward reclaiming its place among Nigeria’s football elite.

“This partnership comes at a crucial moment as we rebuild and work to return to our best form. The backing from Ibom Air is both strategic and timely. It will boost the morale of our players and technical team. Wearing the logo of such a reputable brand reminds us that we represent excellence, and we must deliver at the highest level,” Eno said.

Elder Paul Bassey, Honourable Commissioner for Sports in Akwa Ibom State, praised the collaboration, describing it as a major milestone that aligns with the state’s broader goals for sports development and private sector engagement.

“I am delighted to witness this partnership finally become reality. I have always envisioned a day when Ibom Air and Akwa United would come together in true partnership. This aligns perfectly with the ARISE Agenda of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, which promotes private sector involvement in sports,” he said.

Bassey emphasized that the initiative would help raise the standard of local football, encourage corporate investment in sports, and position Akwa United to compete more effectively at the national and international levels. “With this partnership, we are not only supporting our club but also laying the foundation for local sports to compete with global standards. I am confident this collaboration will bring great success to both Akwa United and Ibom Air,” he added.

The ceremony also featured the unveiling of Akwa United’s new jersey, the inauguration of working committees, and interactive sessions with journalists. The partnership is expected to foster brand visibility for Ibom Air while strengthening Akwa United’s operational and competitive capacity in the Nigeria Premier Football League.

Ibom Air, owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government, operates a fleet of seven Bombardier CRJ 900 aircraft and two Airbus A220-300s. The airline serves seven domestic destinations in Nigeria as well as Accra, Ghana, offering reliable flight schedules, on-time departures, and quality service. More information on routes and services is available at www.ibomair.com.

Akwa United Football Club, founded in 1997 as Ibom Stars FC and later rebranded, is also owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government. The team has made a mark in Nigerian football, winning the NPFL in 2021 and the FA Cup twice in 2015 and 2017. The club has represented Nigeria in both the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup and continues to be a source of pride for the people of Akwa Ibom.

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