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Sterling Bank, Edubanc launch exam financing for professionals

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Sterling Bank, in partnership with Edubanc, has introduced a new financing program designed to help professionals pursue global certifications without financial stress. The initiative supports qualifications such as ACCA, CFA, ACMP, CIPM, and other professional exams, allowing candidates to focus on their career growth rather than worrying about upfront exam fees.

According to the bank, once a candidate’s financing is approved, Edubanc pays the exam body in full directly. This ensures that registration is secured without any delay. “We support certifications such as ACCA, CFA, ACMP, CIPM, and other relevant professional qualifications. Get financed upfront and repay monthly with Edubanc,” the statement said.

Sterling Bank explained that the partnership aims to make exam financing more accessible. “Edubanc makes it easy to finance your professional exams, with flexible repayment in small installments,” the company noted, adding that candidates can enjoy repayment plans of up to seven months.

Addressing concerns about exam outcomes, Edubanc clarified that repayment obligations remain as agreed, even if the candidate does not pass the exam. However, those affected can reapply for support in future exam cycles.

The bank described Edubanc as a “trusted growth partner” that has already helped many professionals achieve their goals. The financing offer is open to salary earners in reputable organizations preparing for professional exams. Interested candidates can apply through sterling.ng/exam-financing.

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Afro-Tech girls opens project 100 for 50 scholarship for STEM

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The Afro-Tech Girls organization has officially announced the launch of Project 100 for 50, a new scholarship initiative aimed at boosting female participation in STEM education across Nigeria. The program is now open for applications and will provide a one-time financial award of ₦100,000 each to 50 young women studying Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics at Nigerian universities and polytechnics.

According to Afro-Tech Girls, Project 100 for 50 is designed to empower more young women to complete their studies and transition successfully into the STEM workforce. “This initiative is about giving bright female undergraduates in STEM the financial support they need to stay focused and succeed,” the organization stated.

The Afro-Tech Girls Undergraduate Scholarship, also known as Project 100 for 50, targets female undergraduate students pursuing courses in Science, Engineering, Technology, Agriculture, and Medicine. Each awardee will receive ₦100,000 to help cover tuition, books, or research materials. The initiative supports gender inclusion and academic growth in high-demand fields that drive innovation, digital transformation, and economic development.

To qualify, applicants must be female undergraduates currently enrolled in accredited public or state universities or polytechnics in Nigeria. Candidates must also be studying a STEM-related course and maintain at least a Second Class Lower (2:2) grade or its equivalent. Being a member of the Afro-Tech Girls community gives an added advantage but is not mandatory. Applicants must also reside in Nigeria during the application period.

Selection will be based on academic performance and the quality of a written essay of 300 to 450 words, detailing personal background, financial need, and reasons for deserving the scholarship. Each submission must include proof of admission, proof of ID, and current academic standing.

Fifty scholarships will be awarded across Nigeria, each offering ₦100,000 as a one-time grant for the 2025 academic cycle. Recipients will also gain access to mentorship and networking opportunities through the Afro-Tech Girls community, providing further empowerment and visibility in STEM.

Applications close on October 20, 2025. Interested candidates can apply by visiting the official scholarship Link.

117 Northern students depart for Algeria on fully funded scholarship

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No fewer than 117 beneficiaries from northern Nigeria have departed for Algeria to pursue various academic programmes under a fully funded study scholarship facilitated by the Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi Foundation.

During a send-forth and orientation ceremony held in Bauchi, the Chairman of the Foundation, Sayyadi Aliyu, said the scholarship was secured through the Darika Tijjaniyya Islamic Sect in collaboration with the Algerian Government. According to him, “We were able to secure 140 slots, but only 117 met the complete requirements. The remaining ones will join them later.”

Aliyu explained that Bauchi State, being the host of the foundation, produced the highest number of beneficiaries, while others were selected from Gombe, Taraba, Yobe, and other northern states. He said that 50 of the slots were allocated for Medicine, while the rest were shared among other fields such as Computer Science, Engineering, and Islamic Studies.

He added that the fully funded international scholarship covers feeding, accommodation, healthcare, and other essential needs of the beneficiaries. Aliyu urged the students to remain law-abiding, disciplined, and focused during their stay in Algeria. “You must be good ambassadors of Nigeria and of those who facilitated this opportunity,” he said.

The foundation chairman also revealed that the students had been introduced to Arabic and French languages to help them adjust easily in their new environment. He emphasized that Islam promotes the pursuit of knowledge, saying, “Islam is a religion of knowledge, and whoever neglects to seek it is going against its teachings.” Aliyu further cautioned the students to avoid distractions and remain united in their mission to gain knowledge for the benefit of Islam and humanity.

In his remarks, the Emir of Bauchi, Dr Rilwanu Sulaimanu Adamu, advised the students to protect Nigeria’s image abroad and avoid any actions that could tarnish the country’s reputation. Expressing concern over negative reports involving Nigerians overseas, the Emir said, “The Nigerian flag has in many instances been blackened abroad, contrary to its true green-white-green identity. Green, as we know, is the colour associated with the house of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). You must uphold this symbol with dignity and commit yourselves to the pursuit of knowledge.”

FUTO Owerri announces academic and non-teaching recruitment 2025

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Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO) announces recruitment for academic and non-teaching staff across various departments. In a statement from the university management, applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates to fill existing vacancies in the institution.

The positions available include Professor, Reader, Senior Lecturer, Lecturer I, Lecturer II, Assistant Lecturer, and Graduate Assistant. According to the announcement, “Vacancies are available in all the Schools and Departments of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri.”

In the School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology, openings exist in Agricultural Economics, Animal Science and Technology, Crop Science, Fisheries and Aquaculture Technology, and Soil Science and Technology. The School of Engineering and Engineering Technology has vacancies in Civil, Chemical, Mechanical, Petroleum, and Agricultural Engineering.

The School of Electrical Systems Engineering Technology seeks professionals in Computer, Electrical, and Telecommunication Engineering. Other academic areas include Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Architecture, Estate Management, Quantity Surveying, and Urban and Regional Planning.

Also included are vacancies in Computer Science, Cyber Security, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Maritime Management, Logistics, Project Management, Mathematics, and Statistics. The University Library has positions for Librarians at various ranks.

Non-teaching positions include Administrative Officer II, Administrative Assistant, and Executive Officer under the CONTISS salary scale. Applicants must possess relevant qualifications such as a Bachelor’s Degree or HND in the appropriate field with credit passes in English and Mathematics.

Candidates for senior positions must hold a Master’s or Doctorate degree in their field. The notice stated that “Applicants must have post-qualification teaching and research experience in a recognized university with evidence of scholarly publications.” It added that a minimum of 70 percent web presence and registration with professional bodies are required.

Proficiency in computer applications and at least three years of relevant work experience are essential. Applicants must also demonstrate research ability and active participation in academic development.

Interested candidates should submit ten copies of their application and detailed Curriculum Vitae to the Registrar, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B. 1526, Owerri, Imo State. The CV should include full name, date of birth, contact information, qualifications, and referees. Referees are required to forward their reports under the heading “Referee’s Report.”

The university emphasized that all applications must reach the Registrar within six weeks from the date of publication (October 14, 2025), adding that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview.

FME meets to launch new national TVET initiative

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The Federal Ministry of Education (FME) has held an interactive meeting with Executive Secretaries and Directors of State Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Boards to launch a new national TVET Initiative aimed at improving skills development across Nigeria.

The meeting, which took place in Abuja, provided a platform for aligning federal and state strategies on technical education, strengthening collaboration, and ensuring effective implementation of TVET programmes nationwide.

Representing the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, Dr. (Mrs.) Adenike Olodo reaffirmed the Federal Government’s dedication to empowering young Nigerians through technical and vocational education. She stated that the Ministry remains focused on building a skilled workforce that can contribute to national growth and economic diversification.

“The Federal Government is committed to sustained collaboration with State Governments, TVET Boards, and stakeholders to advance the TVET Initiative and equip young Nigerians with industry-relevant, future-ready skills,” she said.

The Ministry emphasized that this partnership would play a vital role in bridging the skills gap, promoting job creation, and reducing unemployment through hands-on training.

However, Nigeriastartupact.ng previously reported challenges faced by trainees under the ongoing TVET training. Some participants have been assigned to centres located far from their residences. For instance, a trainee from Zaria was posted to Kaduna North, incurring transport costs of over ₦4,000 per trip, a situation that discourages continued participation.

FG, JICA sign MoU to upgrade Model schools in Nigeria

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The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding aimed at strengthening basic education across Nigeria. The agreement was signed at a ceremony held in Abuja, marking another step in the partnership between both countries to improve learning outcomes and expand educational opportunities for Nigerian children.

Speaking at the event, UBEC Executive Secretary, Aisha Garba, said the initiative reaffirms the shared commitment of both nations to the future of Nigerian education. “We are here not just to sign documents, but to reaffirm a shared commitment to the future of education, and most importantly, to the children whose lives will be directly impacted by this initiative,” she said.

The new project will focus on upgrading five model schools across Nasarawa, Benue, and the Federal Capital Territory. These schools will be equipped with modern science laboratories, ICT rooms, vocational workshops, and gender-sensitive sanitation facilities. The plan also includes the provision of learning equipment to promote STEM and pre-vocational education from the primary to junior secondary school levels.

According to the Executive Secretary, the initiative aligns with the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), which was launched in 2024 to enhance learning outcomes and promote equity in education nationwide. She noted that JICA has been a long-standing partner in Nigeria’s education development, supporting the construction of over 1,000 classrooms, 1,000 WASH facilities, and extensive teacher training programs under the SMASE project, which has benefited more than 200,000 teachers.

“This project is more than infrastructure, it’s about creating spaces where young minds can thrive,” she added. UBEC and JICA also plan to use the upgraded schools as regional learning hubs that will share best practices and help expand successful educational models nationwide.

The Executive Secretary expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Japan, JICA, and all development partners for their continued collaboration in promoting quality, inclusive, and equitable education for Nigerian children. The event was attended by the UBEC management team, the JICA delegation, and representatives from the Budget Office.

NREIF 2025: FG, states sign $435m renewable energy deals

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Nigeria has secured renewable energy agreements worth 435 million dollars with local and international partners, as the country strengthens efforts to position itself as a hub for renewable energy manufacturing in Africa. The agreements were signed on Tuesday at the Nigeria Renewable Energy Innovation Forum (NREIF 2025) in Abuja. The signing ceremony was attended by top government officials, development partners, and private sector investors in the renewable energy industry.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who delivered the keynote address, described the initiative as a key part of Nigeria’s long-term plan to achieve sustainable energy independence and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. According to him, Nigeria’s energy transition represents an investment opportunity of over 410 billion dollars between now and 2060. He noted that more than 23 billion dollars of that figure would be needed to expand energy access and connect millions of Nigerians who still live without reliable power supply.

Shettima explained that the federal government’s ambition goes beyond access, aiming to build a power system capable of generating 277 gigawatts of installed capacity by 2060. He said the administration intends to establish strong renewable energy infrastructure, from solar panel assembly lines in Lagos to battery recycling hubs across industrial corridors. “Nigeria must not only participate in this revolution but lead it,” the vice president stated.

He emphasized that achieving this target requires innovation, local capacity development, and strong commitment. “This demands more than investment; it demands innovation, local capacity, and commitment. That is why the theme of this year’s forum is not only timely but indeed essential,” he said.

Shettima commended the Federal Ministry of Power and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) for advancing decentralised and inclusive electricity policies. He praised the Rural Electrification Agency’s leadership for implementing projects that have brought power to rural communities, supported small businesses, and transformed lives. “The federal ministry of power has demonstrated its readiness to steer Nigeria’s energy transition through progressive policies that lay the groundwork for a more decentralised, competitive, and inclusive electricity market,” he said.

He urged development partners and original equipment manufacturers to localise their technologies, strengthen supply chains, and invest in knowledge and skill transfer to ensure sustainability. “The success of Nigeria’s energy transition will not be measured by policies or projections, but by our ability to transform ideas into practical solutions that guarantee availability, affordability, and sustainability for every Nigerian,” Shettima added.

During the event, Shettima announced that through engagements under the forum, more than 400 million dollars in new investment commitments had been mobilised into Nigeria’s renewable energy manufacturing value chain. The funds will support the development of solar panels, smart meters, battery storage systems, and recycling facilities.

Among the agreements signed, Lagos State reached a deal with Auxano Solar to deliver 150 megawatts of renewable energy. The state also entered a partnership with Levene Photovoltaic Technologies Limited to develop a world-class recycling plant with a capacity of 2,484 tonnes per annum. Akwa Ibom State signed agreements with Tricell Solar Solutions and IRS Green Energy to deliver 500 megawatts and 600 megawatts respectively.

Similarly, Kano State signed with Tricell Solar Solutions and IRS Green Energy Limited for the delivery of another 500 megawatts and 600 megawatts. Bayelsa State entered a deal with Marine Logistics Limited, while the Federal Capital Territory signed with PVG Solar Limited to deliver 500 megawatts. The Rural Electrification Agency also signed agreements with Suntisolar Energy Africa Solar Limited and Tsat Telecommunications Company Limited.

Commenting further, the vice president said these investments are expected to create over 1,500 direct jobs across multiple states. He described the development as a reflection of growing global confidence in Nigeria’s renewable energy drive and its commitment to clean energy industrialisation.

Shettima reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s dedication to strengthening the country’s energy transition policies. He said the federal government will continue to enhance incentives for local manufacturing, streamline regulatory frameworks, and promote stronger collaboration with state governments, investors, and development partners.

The vice president also applauded the Federal Ministry of Power and the Rural Electrification Agency for their role in promoting decentralised and competitive energy policies. He noted that their work has contributed significantly to bringing power to underserved and off-grid communities, empowering small enterprises, and boosting local productivity.

Ibadan tech expo 2025 free registration open

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The Ibadan Tech Expo 2025 is set to take place at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, on Saturday, 25 October 2025, starting at 9:00 a.m.

Organizers announced that the event will bring together more than 10,000 innovators, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts for a day of innovation and collaboration. “This year’s expo will cover edutech, fintech, AI, e-commerce, renewable energy, and telecommunications,” a spokesperson said.

They also confirmed that 200 free tickets are available to interested participants. “We are offering a unique chance for people to attend for free,” the organizers added. To secure a ticket, participants are encouraged to register now via Bit.ly/IBTECH2025.

Edo SUBEB directs new teachers to collect appointment letters

The Edo State Universal Basic Education Board has announced that all newly employed teachers are to collect their appointment letters on Wednesday, 15th October 2025. According to the management, the collection will take place at the Festival Hall, Government House, beginning at 8:00 AM prompt.

In the public announcement, the Board stated, “All concerned individuals are expected to arrive on time and come along with valid means of identification.” The Edo SUBEB management emphasized that punctuality and proper identification are mandatory for all participants.

This directive aims to ensure a smooth and transparent appointment process as part of the state’s ongoing effort to strengthen the education sector and promote effective teacher deployment across Edo State.

News update:

This includes EDO-STAR fellows.

NFSS deputy commander denies fake recruitment post

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The Deputy Commander General of the Intelligence Department, Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS), Dr. John C. Metchie, has issued a strong warning to the public regarding a fake recruitment advertisement circulating on Facebook. The post, shared through the page @allnigeriansecuritynews, falsely claims that the NFSS is recruiting 30,000 personnel and uses Dr. Metchie’s photograph to mislead unsuspecting Nigerians.

In a public notice and disclaimer released by Dr. Metchie, he stated clearly that the publication is “false and misleading,” stressing that “the NFSS is not conducting any recruitment at this time.” He further described the use of his name and image in the viral post as “unauthorized and fraudulent.”

The statement advised members of the public to “ignore, report, and avoid any engagement with this fake announcement.” Dr. Metchie warned Nigerians not to submit applications, make payments, or share personal information with anyone associated with the post, noting that such actions could lead to identity theft or financial loss.

He emphasized that all official NFSS communications are issued only through “verified official channels and not via random social media pages.”

Dr. Metchie concluded by dissociating himself from the fraudulent publication and warned those behind it to “desist immediately or face legal consequences.”