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DFC opens graduate trainee program 2025 application

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DFC opens graduate trainee program 2025 application

DFC has announced the opening of its Graduate Trainee Program 2025, aimed at identifying, training, and equipping young professionals with the skills and experience required for a successful career in real estate. The company described the initiative as an opportunity for recent graduates to gain hands-on exposure to the fundamentals of real estate practice.

According to DFC, “The Graduate Trainee Program is designed to identify, train and equip young, talented professionals with the skills, knowledge, and experience required for a successful career in real estate practice.” The firm noted that the program will combine structured training, job rotations across key business areas, and special project assignments. These activities are intended to help participants understand the core values of the organization, the fundamentals of the industry, and the technical and soft skills needed to deliver excellent service.

Explaining the benefits of the initiative, DFC highlighted several reasons young professionals should consider applying. The company stated that trainees will “gain comprehensive understanding of the industry” while developing “valuable technical and soft skills.” Participants will also receive on-the-job training through rotations across major business functions. The program provides opportunities for networking, career visibility through engagement with senior officers, and a clear path to a full-time position with the firm. DFC further described the program as an “avenue to establish a strong business and technical foundation for accelerated career growth” with an attractive remuneration package.

The eligibility criteria for the DFC Graduate Trainee Program 2025 require applicants to possess a minimum of a second-class degree from an accredited university and be no more than 27 years old at the time of application. Candidates must have completed the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program and have no more than two years of post-NYSC work experience.

Applicants should demonstrate strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Office tools and shared work platforms. Evidence of extracurricular, volunteer, or community-building activities is also encouraged.

The company added that the program is a six-month immersion combining classroom learning and hands-on training through rotations across its business areas. “Only trainees that progress to and complete the 6-month immersion program will be retained in full-time positions,” DFC explained.

Interested applicants can apply online through the official Link. The deadline for submission is October 31, 2025.

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VP Shettima to commission Katsina MSME clinic, launch business registration

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VP Shettima to commission Katsina MSME clinic, launch business registration

Katsina State is set to welcome the Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, on Tuesday for the commissioning of landmark projects initiated under the administration of Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda. The visit will mark a major event in the state, featuring the launch of the 9th Expanded National MSME Clinic, the commissioning of the dualized Central Mosque Roundabout to Kiddeis Roundabout Road, and the unveiling of the Katsina Sustainable Platform for Agriculture (KASPA), a digital agriculture system connecting thousands of farmers across the state.

The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Katsina State Government House, where top government officials briefed journalists about the Vice President’s visit. The briefing was led by the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Bala Salisu Zango, alongside the Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, Engr. Kabir Magaji Ingawa, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Prof. Ahmad Muhammad Bakori, and the Director-General of KASEDA, Hajiya Aisha Aminu Malumfashi.

Speaking at the event, Hajiya Aisha Aminu Malumfashi, who heads the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA), said the visit by Vice President Shettima will mark a new phase in the state’s journey toward economic diversification and youth empowerment. She stated that the 9th Expanded National MSME Clinic, slated for Tuesday, October 21, 2025, will bring together hundreds of entrepreneurs, regulatory agencies, and financial institutions for exhibitions, mentorship programs, and direct business support sessions.

“This is not just a programme; it is a life-changing opportunity for small business owners,” Malumfashi said. “Young people, women, and artisans will meet agencies like BOI, BOA, SMEDAN, NEXIM, and NAFDAC in one place to register their businesses, access loans, and receive professional guidance.”

She also revealed that the event will feature the first-ever Katsina MSME Awards Night, during which the Vice President and Governor Radda will honour outstanding entrepreneurs who have demonstrated resilience and innovation despite economic challenges.

In his remarks, Engr. Kabir Magaji Ingawa, Commissioner for Works, Housing and Transport, announced that the Vice President will also commission the newly completed 3.3-kilometre dual carriageway linking the Central Mosque Roundabout to Kidis Roundabout via WTC. The road project, valued at ₦1.9 billion, includes solar-powered streetlights, pedestrian walkways, and modern drainage facilities designed to improve safety, reduce congestion, and enhance the city’s beauty.

“This road is more than infrastructure; it’s an enabler of trade,” Engr. Ingawa explained. “It will ease the movement of goods and people, reduce travel time, and support night-time business operations through solar lighting.”

Prof. Ahmad Muhammad Bakori, Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, disclosed that the Vice President will also launch KASPA, a digital agriculture platform aimed at connecting farmers with experts, markets, and agro-input suppliers across the 34 local government areas.

He described KASPA as a “revolutionary bridge” designed to transform communication in the agricultural sector, increase food production, and raise farmers’ incomes. “With just a phone, a farmer can now access advice, buy quality seeds, and sell produce directly to buyers,” he said. “This is a major step towards digital farming and food security.”

Prof. Bakori added that the state government has introduced supporting initiatives such as a Farmer’s Radio Station and an e-extension communication network to ensure that farmers receive real-time guidance and expert responses.

Ahead of the Vice President’s arrival, Katsina will also host the graduation ceremony of the first cohort of the Dikko Social Innovation Academy, a youth-led initiative that trains young social entrepreneurs to develop local solutions to community problems.

According to Hajiya Aisha Malumfashi, the graduates of the academy have already started impactful projects, including recycling waste into building materials and converting agricultural residues into energy. “These young innovators are building the future of Katsina one idea at a time,” she said. “Their creativity reflects Governor Radda’s belief in empowering youth to lead through innovation.”

Governor Radda’s administration has continued to prioritize youth empowerment, small business development, and digital transformation in agriculture as part of his Building Your Future Agenda. The upcoming projects reflect these priorities and align with efforts to stimulate job creation, strengthen local industries, and promote economic growth in Katsina State.

The Commissioners who addressed the press emphasized that the Vice President’s visit represents the Federal Government’s confidence in Katsina’s development agenda and Governor Radda’s achievements in promoting innovation-driven growth.

“Every initiative being launched from the MSME Clinic to KASPA is about improving lives,” Malumfashi concluded. “Governor Radda’s vision is to turn opportunities into prosperity for ordinary citizens.”

FG, EATIP to promote inclusive education for children with disabilities

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FG, EATIP to promote inclusive education for children with disabilities

The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) on Thursday, 16th October 2025, held a meeting with delegates from the Empowering Abilities Through Inclusive Pages (EATIP) to promote inclusivity for children and young adults with disabilities.

The Empowering Abilities Through Inclusive Pages (EATIP) project is supported by the Youth Empowerment Fund (YEF) in collaboration with the School for the Blind and Zamarr Institute, Jabi, Abuja. The project is led by Praise Akobo, a disability advocate and Executive Director of YieldUp Development Initiative.

YieldUp Development Initiative is an organization focused on bridging gaps in discrimination and illiteracy among persons with disabilities through education, creativity, advocacy, technology, and therapy (ECAT). The organization also works to improve accessibility to educational materials for children with disabilities to reduce stigma and exclusion. This is in line with Nigeria’s Inclusive Education Policy and legal frameworks such as the Discrimination Against Persons with Disability Prohibition Act 2018, which promotes awareness about the rights of children with disabilities (CWDs).

In furthering their commitment, the organization is working on introducing a universal design for learning to enhance capacity building for special needs teachers. This initiative has already recorded success in Benue State and is expected to be replicated in Abuja.

During the meeting, plans were discussed regarding the launch of a new book titled “Awakening Possibilities in Disabilities,” which will be released upon the approval of the Commission. The group also requested technical support from the Commission, particularly in providing assistive devices and printing the book in braille format to make it accessible to visually impaired learners.

Executive Secretary of the Commission, Barr. Ayuba Burki Gufwan, praised the organization for its efforts, describing their work as a major contribution to improving the lives of persons with disabilities. He noted that their initiatives in producing Braille books, wheelchairs, and other mobility devices will help address some of the major challenges faced by the disability community in Nigeria.

“The job of pulling the members in the disability community out of the shackles of deprivation, marginalisation, discrimination and stigmatisation is a collective work for not just the Commission alone, but a task for everyone, given that the over 35.5 million Persons with Disabilities in Nigeria require the involvement and support of every Nigerian,” he said.

Gufwan expressed appreciation for the group’s dedication and assured them of the Commission’s readiness to provide all necessary support to help them achieve their goals. He called on Nigerians from all professions and walks of life to unite in making the country more inclusive for persons with disabilities.

The event concluded with the formal presentation of a document titled “Abilities Through Inclusive Pages” to the Executive Secretary of the Commission.

UNICEF, EU partner Jigawa to strengthen basic education

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UNICEF, EU partner Jigawa to strengthen basic education

UNICEF has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with the Jigawa State Government to strengthen the basic education sector. Micheal Banda, Education Manager of the UNICEF Kano Field Office, made this known during a three-day Local Education Sector Operations Plan (LESOP) Review and Development Workshop held on Friday in Dutse.

The workshop, supported by UNICEF and the European Union (EU), is part of the Education and Youth Empowerment (EYE) programme aimed at assisting Jigawa State in reviewing and drafting its education strategic operational plan.

Banda described the exercise as a crucial step in improving the education sector’s planning and implementation framework across the state. According to him, “By reviewing and updating the LESOP, Jigawa is demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based decision making, accountability, and community participation, which are vital ingredients for transforming education at the local level.”

He noted that despite progress made in education, many children in Jigawa still face challenges in accessing quality education due to poverty, child labour, early marriage, or distance to the nearest school. Banda said the LESOP process provides an opportunity to identify these barriers in each local government area and design local solutions suited to community realities.

The UNICEF official pointed out that inadequate financing remains a major challenge to achieving education goals. He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the use of allocated funds to ensure improved teaching and learning outcomes.

Banda added that UNICEF encourages state governments to explore innovative financing options and strengthen budget execution to ensure that education resources reach schools promptly. “LESOP will help local education authorities plan and implement realistic, cost effective activities that are aligned with the State Education Sector Plan and Medium-Term Expenditure Framework. LESOP should be more than a document but a living guide that drives local action, accountability, and innovation in every LGA and for every learner,” he said.

Haruna Musa, Chairman of the Jigawa State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), commended UNICEF and the EU for their continued support and intervention in the education sector. Musa explained that the new document would serve as a guide to improve education in the state. “Planning is important but implementation is also important. As education managers, we will do our best to deploy the document as a guide. Our main focus is on addressing the challenges in the system in terms of learning outcomes and the issue of out-of-school children,” he stated.

Pharmacy Council announces October 2025 pre-registration exam

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Pharmacy Council announces October 2025 pre-registration exam

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has announced that the October 2025 Pre-Registration Examination for Pharmacists (PEP) will take place on Saturday, 18 October 2025. According to the council, the computer-based test will be held simultaneously across all designated centres nationwide to ensure smooth and transparent assessment.

A statement from the council noted that, “Candidates are advised to arrive early at their respective centres for verification and other pre-examination procedures.” The examination venues include the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Centre, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State; Festus Iyayi Building near the Computer Science Department, University of Benin, Edo State; and Nnamdi Azikiwe Library, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State.

Other centres are the Distance Learning Centre, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State; ICT Directorate Complex 2, Naraguta Campus, University of Jos, Plateau State; University of Ibadan Distance Learning Center, Orogun-Sasa Road, Ibadan, Oyo State; CBT HUB, GSS Tudun Wada, Wuse Zone 4, FCT; Federal College of Education, Akoka, Lagos State; and ICT Centre, Opposite El-Kanemi Hall, University of Maiduguri, Borno State.

LASU opens application for study work scheme on OER portal project

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LASU opens application for study work scheme on OER portal project

The Lagos State University (LASU) has announced the opening of applications for its Study Work Scheme, inviting interested undergraduate students to participate in the Open Educational Resources (OER) Portal Project. The initiative aims to enhance access to academic materials through a digital repository that will serve the entire university community.

According to the university, the OER Portal project is designed to convert and upload academic theses and related materials into a structured digital format. Selected students will assist in digitising and organising these resources. “This project represents an important step in improving access to knowledge and supporting academic excellence at LASU,” the statement read.

To be eligible, applicants must be currently enrolled as undergraduate students in the 300 Level or above, possess a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.0, and demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, and general internet usage. The university emphasized that digital literacy is a key requirement for participation.

The programme will take place at the LASU Postgraduate School from November 3 to November 15, 2025. Participants are expected to commit two to three hours daily during the two-week period. The institution further confirmed that all selected students will receive a stipend after successfully completing the project, acknowledging their contribution to the university’s academic development.

The application window opens from October 20 to October 22, 2025, and interested candidates are required to submit their applications through the official link forms.gle/qz1Y7PTW4Hba1xT69. The university added, “All shortlisted candidates will be notified to attend an interview.”

LASU encouraged eligible students to apply promptly, describing the opportunity as a way to gain valuable digital work experience while contributing to the growth of the institution’s academic resources.

Gombe scholarship board to begin screening, verification October 20

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Gombe scholarship board to begin screening, verification October 20

The Commissioner, Ministry of Higher Education, Muhammad Shetima Gadam, earlier today engaged with the management and staff of the Gombe State Scholarship Board to plan ahead of the upcoming screening and verification exercise for scholarship beneficiaries.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Builder Ahmed Sa’eed Guli, the Commissioner said the meeting was necessary to ensure a transparent and efficient process. The engagement followed the recent approval of over 100 percent increase in the Gombe State scholarship allowance by the state government.

Guli expressed satisfaction with the remarkable achievements of the Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya-led administration, noting that the government’s commitment to education continues to drive growth and development across the state. He commended the Scholarship Board for its loyalty, dedication, and resilience, urging the staff to sustain their commitment to effective service delivery.

In his remarks, the Director of Administration and Finance, Joab Lapips, appreciated the management of the Ministry of Higher Education for its guidance and support. He encouraged all staff to work collectively to ensure the successful conduct of the upcoming verification exercise.

The Director of the Scholarship Board, Adamu Madaki Kanawa, expressed gratitude to the state government through the Ministry of Higher Education for its continued assistance, particularly the recent approval by the Executive Governor.

Kanawa disclosed that the screening and verification exercise would commence on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the Scholarship Board premises. He explained that the first phase would take place at the board’s headquarters and other designated centers pending the suspension of the ongoing ASUU strike, expected within two weeks.

He assured students that those studying outside Gombe metropolis need not worry and appealed for maximum cooperation with officials to ensure a smooth, transparent, and student-friendly process.

FG hails Erasmus+ programme in Nigeria

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FG hails Erasmus+ programme in Nigeria

The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, has described the European Union’s Erasmus+ Programme as a transformative force advancing education, innovation, and human capital development in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa. Represented by Dr. Ejeh Usman, Director of Polytechnic Education and Allied Institutions, he said the programme aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places education at the center of national transformation.

Speaking at the 2025 Erasmus+ National Information Day in Abuja, Dr. Alausa commended the European Union for its commitment to Nigeria’s education sector. He noted that since 2021, more than 500 Nigerian students and academics have benefited from Erasmus+ scholarships and exchange programs. The Minister called on the EU to increase Nigeria’s scholarship quota and pledged that the Ministry will continue to work closely with the EU to expand access to Erasmus+ opportunities.

Director of University Education, Mrs. Rakiya Ilyasu, described Erasmus+ as a €570 million Sub-Saharan Africa initiative (2021–2027) that promotes education, youth development, and innovation. She urged participants to take advantage of the programme’s focus on leadership, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation.

EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Zissimos Vergos, reaffirmed the EU’s support for Nigeria’s education growth, highlighting 11 ongoing joint projects involving Nigerian institutions in STEM, digital skills, and entrepreneurship.

The Ministry emphasized its dedication to strengthening global education partnerships and using learning as a key driver of national development.

Forum for Oke-Ogun progress announces 2025/26 Kareem Alao scholarship

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Forum for Oke-Ogun progress announces 2025/26 Kareem Alao scholarship

The Forum for Oke-Ogun Progress (FFOP) has announced the opening of applications for the 2025/26 Kareem Alao Educational Scholarship. The initiative, created in collaboration with the Pa Kareem Alao Educational Support Scheme, is aimed at helping indigent undergraduate students from the Oke-Ogun area of Oyo State who are studying in government-owned universities across Nigeria.

According to the organizers, the scholarship is designed to promote educational access and empower bright but financially challenged students. “This scheme represents our commitment to investing in the next generation of leaders from Oke-Ogun. Only genuine and deserving students from public universities will be considered,” the FFOP stated.

The scholarship is open to students in all fields of study offered in Nigerian government-owned universities. It targets first-year undergraduate students who are descendants of Oke-Ogun in Oyo State. Applicants must have scored at least 250 in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and must maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.5, equivalent to a Second Class Upper.

Candidates are also expected to show good character, leadership qualities, and moral conduct. In addition, applicants must pass the FFOP Aptitude Test before being shortlisted for final selection. “Only the best-performing candidates after the aptitude test will be awarded,” the statement added.

The scholarship provides ₦50,000 as educational support for one academic session, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and continued eligibility. The FFOP emphasized that the award is merit-based and intended to assist students in covering part of their academic expenses.

To apply, interested and qualified candidates must review the eligibility criteria carefully, prepare all necessary documents including proof of Oke-Ogun origin, and provide a valid means of identification such as a National ID, voter’s card, or passport. Applicants are also required to write a short essay as part of the selection process.

Applications must be submitted online through the official form Link.

Eligible students are encouraged to apply before the deadline for a chance to benefit from this educational opportunity.

NREIF 2025: NASENI displays made-in-Nigeria renewable energy products

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NREIF 2025: NASENI displays made-in-Nigeria renewable energy products

The Nigeria First Policy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration was strongly promoted yesterday at the Nigeria Renewable Energy Innovation Forum (NREIF) 2025. The forum, powered by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and co-organized with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), brought together top professionals, innovators, and investors at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

Declaring the two-day event open, Vice President Kashim Shettima GCON said, “This inaugural renewable energy forum 2025, the first of its kind in our country, brings together visionaries, policy makers, entrepreneurs, and investors to rethink and define opportunities for Nigeria’s energy transition.” He added, “This is an invitation to establish Nigeria as a hub for renewable energy in Africa.” The Vice President emphasized that Nigeria’s energy transition presents an investment opportunity of over $410 billion between now and 2060.

Representing the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, the Special Adviser on Renewable Energy, Mr. Suyud Abdullahi Muhammed, addressed participants virtually and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to advancing homegrown renewable energy technologies that support national industrialization.

The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, in his address, said the NREIF 2025 is not just another event but a clear declaration that “Nigeria is ready to lead Africa’s renewable energy transformation.” According to him, under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, the Ministry of Power has worked tirelessly to translate ambition into policy and policy into action. He further stated that the next generation of clean energy technologies, including solar panels and battery systems, will proudly carry the label “Made in Nigeria.”

After his address, the Minister toured the NASENI exhibition stand, where he was shown various renewable energy products such as NASENI Streetlights, NASENI Solar Home Systems, NASENI Solar Panels, NASENI Power Stove T200, T500, and X200, NASENI Portable Solar Generator, and the newly NEC-endorsed NASENI Solar Irrigation System.

Chief Adelabu expressed satisfaction to Mr. Suyud Muhammed, who guided him and his delegation around the exhibition. Throughout the event, participants, investors, and entrepreneurs showed strong interest in NASENI’s innovative products, engaging actively with the Technology Business Department (TBD) team led by Mr. Abaver Edward, who responded to numerous inquiries on possible partnerships and investments in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector.

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