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Akwa Ibom extends iLoveAkwaIbom video challenge deadline

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Akwa Ibom extends iLoveAkwaIbom video challenge deadline

The Akwa Ibom State Hotels and Tourism Board has announced an extension for the submission of one-minute videos for the #ILOVEAKWAIBOM Social Media Challenge. According to the board, the new deadline is now November 10th, 2025.

The extension, the board explained, aims to give more individuals the opportunity to participate and showcase their creativity. “This extension is aimed at giving more individuals the opportunity to participate in the #iLoveAkwaIbom challenge and creatively express their love for Akwa Ibom’s rich culture, traditions, cuisine, and people,” the statement read.

Citizens and residents of Akwa Ibom are encouraged to upload their entry videos on social media using the hashtag #iLoveAkwaIbom for a chance to win exciting prizes. The campaign promotes tourism, creativity, and cultural awareness across Akwa Ibom State.

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NELFUND says ASUU strike will not affect student loan

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NELFUND says ASUU strike will not affect student loan

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has reassured Nigerians that the ongoing strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) will not affect its operations or the ongoing student loan process.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s breakfast programme, The Morning Brief, on Tuesday, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr, said the institution remains confident that the current negotiations between the Federal Government and ASUU, led by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, will produce fair and positive outcomes.

“As you are aware, the strike has only just commenced, and I know that under the excellent leadership of the Honourable Minister for Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, the negotiations will continue to move forward,” Sawyerr said.

Over the weekend, NELFUND approved the final reopening of its student loan application platform. This decision aims to allow tertiary institutions that have not yet completed their student verification exercises to do so.

According to a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja on Friday by the Director of Strategic Communications of the Fund, Oseyemi Oluwatuyi, the loan portal would be open from 12:00 a.m. on Sunday, October 12, to 12:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 14.

Oluwatuyi explained that the extension was to ensure that all eligible students were captured and verified by their institutions as part of the ongoing 2024/2025 NELFUND student loan application process.

Sawyerr stated that NELFUND remains confident that the Ministry of Education’s plans will be fair and equitable. He also emphasized that the agency’s operations would not be affected by the industrial action.

“The ministry’s plans will seek to be fair and equitable and will derive the right results,” he said. “This development will not impact our operations because what the Federal Government has done with NELFUND is to put a scheme in place that addresses, in many ways, some of the issues in education.”

Sawyerr added that the fund’s operations are designed to continue regardless of temporary disruptions. “I don’t think this should be jeopardised at all,” he noted. “Even though the funding that NELFUND is providing is for students, the rest of the ‘pie,’ if you like, is also being addressed by the excellent leadership of Dr. Tunji Alausa. So I would not want to preempt those discussions, those negotiations, those positions.”

He stressed that NELFUND does not want students to suffer as a result of the strike and that the agency is carefully monitoring the situation before making further statements.

“The reality of it is that we don’t want to see students affected negatively in any way,” Sawyerr said. “Having said that, we need to be very close to the discussions and look closely at how this unfolds for us to begin to make pronouncements as to what will be affected by NELFUND.”

Sawyerr also explained that the fund is taking direction from the Ministry of Education as negotiations continue. “We are seeking guidance from the Honourable Minister, who is our leader in this regard, and I will take guidance from him as to the way this should move forward,” he said. “As of today, it will not affect upkeep, but the negotiations are ongoing, and we must be responsive to that.”

He reaffirmed that NELFUND’s focus is to complement other government efforts to ensure that education remains functional and effective in Nigeria. “I don’t want to make any pronouncements till I hear from the Honourable Minister, who will provide guidance because this is all part of the package to ensure education must work in Nigeria,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, the Academic Staff Union of Universities has dismissed the Federal Government’s ‘No Work, No Pay’ directive, insisting that it will not be intimidated by threats.

ASUU President, Chris Piwuna, stated this on Monday while appearing as a guest on Channels Television’s Politics Today. He said the union remains united and committed to its demands, despite government pressure.

“We don’t respond to threats, and nobody can threaten us,” Piwuna said. He added that all academic bodies, including the National Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA) and the Congress of Nigerian University Academics (CONUA), are in full support of the ongoing strike.

Nigeriastartupact.ng previously reported that on Monday, the Federal Government issued a directive to universities to enforce the ‘No Work, No Pay’ policy on lecturers participating in the strike. The directive was contained in a circular dated October 13 and signed by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa.

The circular expressed the government’s dissatisfaction with ASUU’s decision to embark on a nationwide strike despite ongoing discussions and appeals for dialogue.

“In line with extant provisions of labour laws, the Federal Government reiterates its position on the enforcement of the ‘No Work, No Pay’ policy in respect of any employee who fails to discharge his or her official duties during the period of strike action,” the letter partly read.

Gombe Governor approves over 100 percent scholarship increase

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Gombe Governor approves over 100 percent scholarship increase

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has approved an over 100 percent increase in the scholarship allowance for students across all categories in Gombe State, reaffirming his administration’s strong commitment to education, inclusivity, and youth empowerment.

The approval fulfills the governor’s earlier assurance during his media chat on July 21, 2025, where he promised a significant increment and timely payment of scholarships. The development reflects his vision to make education the foundation of Gombe State’s development agenda and his dedication to good governance.

Since assuming office, the Inuwa-led administration has declared a state of emergency on education, implementing bold reforms and strategic investments aimed at revamping the sector. His policies are driven by a deep sense of responsibility and a sincere desire to fulfill his promises of lifting Gombe State to greater heights of progress and sustainable development.

In his inclusive approach, Governor Inuwa Yahaya has reviewed and expanded the list of scholarship beneficiaries to include students pursuing PhD, MSc, PGD, BSc, HND, NCE, ND, and Certificate programmes. This move ensures that students at every academic level benefit from the government’s commitment to quality education.

In addition, the governor approved an increment in allowances for persons with disabilities, shortly after the establishment of the Gombe State Commission for Persons with Disabilities. He noted that this initiative was designed to give people with disabilities “a gentle nudge” to encourage their active participation in education and development.

It will be recalled that Governor Inuwa Yahaya had earlier cleared all backlog scholarship allowances owed to students in previous years. This action demonstrated his administration’s readiness to strengthen student welfare and ensure that learners pursue their academic goals without unnecessary financial challenges. His consistent focus on education reform and inclusiveness highlights a transparent and people-centered governance style.

Meanwhile, the Gombe State Scholarship Board has announced that verification and screening exercises for all eligible students will begin soon, with specific dates and procedures to be released in due course.

Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s latest approval once again underscores his unwavering commitment to building a progressive, inclusive, and education-driven Gombe State where students are empowered to reach their full potential.

Unverified TVET training rules circulate online

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Unverified TVET training rules circulate online

Federal Ministry of Education (FME) ground rules for the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme have surfaced online, sparking discussions among trainees and education stakeholders. The circulating document outlines several guidelines covering attendance, trainee conduct, assignments, professional commitment, and discipline. However, there is currently no official confirmation from the federal government regarding the authenticity of these rules.

According to a previous report by Nigeriastartupact.ng, the only officially recognized rule under the FME TVET programme is that every trainee must maintain at least 65% attendance throughout the training period. This requirement is necessary to qualify for the monthly stipend provided under the federal initiative.

The unverified document, however, claims that “Every participant is expected to comply with the following rules. Violation may lead to fines, suspension of allowance, or withdrawal from the program.”

Under the section on Attendance and Punctuality, the document lists that lateness of 15 minutes after class starts attracts a ₦1,000 fine, while absence for one full day could lead to withheld allowance or even withdrawal. It also states that missing a session of two hours carries a ₦5,000 fine and a compulsory retake, adding that trainees must maintain at least 65% attendance monthly to receive their allowance and certification.

For Conduct During Training, it states that “phones must be kept silent,” and using them during class attracts a ₦1,000 fine. Distraction or disrespect could lead to a ₦2,000 fine or suspension, while verbal abuse or fighting would result in immediate expulsion. It also mentions that any case of theft or sexual harassment would lead to expulsion and a report to the authorities.

On Assignments and Projects, the document specifies that all work must be submitted on time and that copied or plagiarized work would not be accepted. It further claims that all fines collected “shall be donated to charity or orphanages.”

These rules appear false because the federal government would never ask for money from trainees as penalties. Any TVET centre found imposing fines should be reported to the Federal Ministry of Education for prosecution.

Attached below is a copy of the rules:

Borno lawmaker launches ₦22.5m postgraduate scholarship

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Borno lawmaker launches ₦22.5m postgraduate scholarship

The Member representing Jere Federal Constituency, Engr. Satomi Ahmad, FNSE, has officially launched a Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme aimed at supporting 200 indigenes of Jere Local Government Area pursuing Master’s (MSc) and Doctorate (PhD) degrees.

The scholarship programme, unveiled during a special ceremony attended by students, community leaders, academic stakeholders, and constituents, is designed to ease the financial burden of tuition, research, and other academic-related expenses for postgraduate students.

As part of the first phase of the initiative, each Master’s (MSc) student received a grant of ₦100,000, while each Doctorate (PhD) student received a grant of ₦150,000. A total of ₦22.5 million naira was disbursed directly to beneficiaries in this maiden edition of the programme.

Speaking at the flag-off event, Engr. Satomi emphasized the importance of education as a driver for development and innovation in the country. He said education remains a powerful tool for societal transformation and human capital development. “This scholarship programme is my way of giving back to the people of Jere. I strongly believe that education is the foundation for progress, and I am committed to supporting our young scholars to achieve their dreams,” he stated.

The lawmaker further assured that the scholarship would be sustained as an annual intervention. “This is not a one-time event. I intend to continue this support for postgraduate students every year throughout my tenure and even beyond,” Engr. Satomi added.

The Education Secretary of Jere Local Government, Dr. Mala Kulloma, commended the initiative, describing Engr. Satomi as a consistent supporter of education since he assumed office. He noted that the programme would greatly encourage academic excellence and motivate other leaders to invest in education.

One of the beneficiaries, Ali Galadima, a PhD student in Geography at the University of Maiduguri, expressed gratitude on behalf of the recipients. “We are truly grateful to Hon. Satomi for this generous support. It will go a long way in helping us focus on our academic goals without the constant worry of financial constraints,” he said.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of cash awards to some beneficiaries, while others received their scholarships through direct bank transfers, with many confirming payment alerts at the venue.

Ernestville awards scholarships, launches innovation hubs in Nigeria

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Ernestville awards scholarships, launches innovation hubs in Nigeria

The Ernestville Foundation, established in honor of Nigerian educational pioneer Mazi Ernest O. N. Oji, is gaining international recognition for its efforts to bridge gaps in opportunity, technology, and community development across underserved areas.

In 2024, the Foundation launched several projects aimed at improving access to quality education, particularly in rural regions. These initiatives include distributing iPads and digital learning tools, supporting local schools, and empowering teachers through partnerships. According to the Foundation, all these efforts align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and focus on advancing digital education and social impact.

A major milestone came in 2025 when six students from Ajalli, a historic town in southeastern Nigeria, received full scholarships to attend the prestigious Government College Umuahia (GCU). The school is well known for its tradition of academic excellence, notable alumni, and leadership development. The scholarship programme aims to revive the culture of quality education and leadership training in communities like Ajalli, which once had a strong legacy of educational excellence.

“This is not just about sending children to school,” said Jideofor “Jay” Oji, Founder and Chairman of Ernestville Foundation. “It’s about restoring a heritage of excellence and investing in leaders who will one day transform their communities.”

To support the programme, the Foundation hired three teachers and launched an intensive three-month preparatory course to help students meet the admission standards for secondary school. In addition to the six boys who gained admission to GCU, another 20 students—16 girls and four boys—who passed entrance exams to other schools each received N50,000 in academic support grants.

Beyond scholarships, Ernestville Foundation is driving education innovation, entrepreneurship development, and social welfare initiatives. Among its flagship programs are the Umuabiama STEM+ Academy, a unique model that offers advanced learning in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, English, and indigenous languages. The program helps students excel academically while maintaining cultural identity and confidence.

Another major initiative, the Ajalli Enterprise & Innovation Hub, focuses on entrepreneurship, digital literacy, and vocational skills. It provides mentorship, startup incubation, and access to business tools designed to help young entrepreneurs build sustainable enterprises in sectors such as renewable energy, technology, and agribusiness.

In addition, the B A Okafor Chess Chun program uses chess as a learning tool to improve cognitive skills, creativity, discipline, and teamwork among young people in Nigerian communities. The Helping Hands Initiative, also known as the Hollow of His Hand Support Network, extends the Foundation’s mission to provide basic support like food, healthcare, and housing to vulnerable families.

Registered as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in the United States, the Ernestville Foundation has outlined a decade-long plan to reach 5,000 scholarship recipients, train 1,000 entrepreneurs, and establish five innovation hubs focused on key industries including clean energy, fintech, and agritech. The goal is to directly or indirectly impact one million lives by 2035.

With a strategic leadership team and advisory board comprising experts in finance, healthcare, academia, technology, and governance, Ernestville Foundation is building global partnerships with governments, private businesses, and the African diaspora. From digital classrooms to enterprise hubs, the Foundation continues to create practical pathways for education, innovation, and economic empowerment in Nigeria.

FG urges ASUU to suspend strike

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FG urges ASUU to suspend strike

The Federal Government of Nigeria has urged the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to reconsider its planned industrial strike, stressing that constructive dialogue remains the most effective and sustainable approach to resolving all lingering issues in the tertiary education sector.

In a joint statement released by the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, and the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, the Federal Government confirmed that it has presented a comprehensive offer to ASUU and is still awaiting the union’s official response.

According to the Ministers, the proposal covers the union’s major concerns, including working conditions, institutional governance, and staff welfare. They disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has approved a robust Teaching Allowance aimed at reflecting the value of academic work and motivating lecturers across public universities.

“All matters relating to the review of conditions of service have been duly addressed, except those within the jurisdiction of individual university governing councils, which are actively being handled. The Federal Government remains open and committed to continued engagement with ASUU once their formal response to the offer is received,” the statement read.

The Ministers explained that the Federal Government has shown demonstrable commitment and sincerity through prompt policy actions and financial interventions in the education sector. However, they expressed concern that ASUU has not reciprocated this goodwill and appears determined to go ahead with the proposed strike despite the pending offer and ongoing engagements.

They reaffirmed that President Tinubu’s administration is unwavering in its commitment to the welfare of lecturers and the stability of Nigeria’s university system. The Ministers noted that the government’s ongoing reforms in the education sector are based on fairness, accountability, and institutional strengthening to promote sustainable academic excellence.

While acknowledging the importance of university autonomy, the Ministers clarified that some of ASUU’s demands, particularly those involving internal governance, appointments, and promotions, fall under the statutory responsibilities of university governing councils. They urged ASUU to allow these issues to be resolved at the institutional level in line with existing laws and regulations.

They further reminded the union of the legal principle of “No Work, No Pay,” which remains an active provision under Nigerian labour law. They stated that the government will apply this policy if ASUU proceeds with its planned industrial action.

“While government remains committed to peaceful dialogue, it will equally enforce existing laws to protect the integrity of our education system and ensure accountability,” the statement warned.

The Ministers also reassured Nigerians that the Federal Government is open to continued dialogue with ASUU and other stakeholders in the education sector. They emphasised that the administration’s consistent policy interventions demonstrate its commitment to revitalising universities, improving staff welfare, and maintaining uninterrupted academic calendars.

“The government has shown sincerity and commitment through engagements and policy actions. We are confident that, with continued dialogue, every legitimate concern can be addressed and resolved without shutting down our campuses. Our students must remain in school,” the statement added.

“The future of our children and the stability of our universities must take priority over disputes. The Federal Government remains open to discussion and is ready to work with ASUU to consolidate the gains already achieved in staff welfare, infrastructure, and institutional reforms,” the Ministers concluded.

UBA launches 2025 national essay competition with N22m grant

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UBA launches 2025 national essay competition with N22m grant

UBA Foundation has announced the commencement of the 2025 edition of its National Essay Competition (NEC), with winners set to receive over N22 million in educational grants and consolation prizes. The competition, now in its 15th year, is open to senior secondary school students across Nigeria. Participants are invited to write on the topic, “Nigeria is characterised by diverse cultures, ethnicities, and religions. How can young Nigerians deploy diversity to build a united nation?”

Students are expected to research, organize their ideas, and submit scanned copies of their handwritten essays through the Foundation’s digital portal on or before Friday, October 24, 2025. The theme is designed to inspire young Nigerians to explore how the country’s diversity can serve as a tool for nation-building, unity, and sustainable development, while promoting a stronger reading culture among youths.

Over the years, the competition has become one of UBA Foundation’s key educational initiatives, aimed at fostering critical thinking, nurturing creativity, and empowering future leaders. This year, the Foundation also announced an increase in its scholarship awards. The first-place winner will receive N10 million in a university grant to study at any African university, an increase from last year’s N7.5 million. The second and third-place winners will receive N7.5 million and N5 million respectively, up from N5 million and N3.5 million in 2024.

The Managing Director and CEO of UBA Foundation, Mrs. Bola Atta, emphasized the importance of the initiative in strengthening national unity. “For well over a decade, the National Essay Competition has provided a vital platform for our secondary school students to express their ideas and showcase their intellectual prowess. In fact, parents and pupils have come to look forward to the NEC as they keep calling to ask about the commencement,” she said.

Atta added, “This year’s topic is particularly crucial as it tasks them to look at our country’s greatest asset which is our diversity, and devise ways to leverage it for unity, growth, and national development.”

Eligible applicants must be Nigerian senior secondary school students and are required to upload a handwritten essay not exceeding 750 words, along with a passport photo and a valid birth certificate or ID. Entries can be submitted via ubagroup.com/uba-foundation/national-essay-competition/.

The NEC also runs across other African countries where UBA operates, expanding opportunities for more students. Through its education and youth empowerment projects, including the ‘Read Africa’ initiative, UBA Foundation continues to promote learning and development across the continent.

News update (October 23, 2025):

The deadline has been extended to Friday 24th October, 2025.

AUST postpones AfricaX 2025 innovation and investment summit

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AUST postpones AfricaX 2025 innovation and investment summit

The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), in partnership with African Experts for Innovation and Sustainable Development, has announced the postponement of the African Innovation and Investment Summit (AfricaX 2025) which was earlier scheduled to take place from October 27 to 29, 2025, at AUST in Abuja.

The African Innovation and Investment Summit is one of the continent’s major platforms for promoting entrepreneurship, investment, and sustainable development. It brings together innovators, investors, policymakers, technologists, academics, and development partners to exchange ideas and build partnerships that foster economic growth across Africa.

With the theme “Reshaping the Future of Africa through Innovation, Investment and Collaboration,” the summit aims to highlight groundbreaking solutions and emerging technologies in digital transformation, clean energy, agriculture, healthtech, creative industries, and financial inclusion.

Among the high-profile guests expected at the event are His Excellency Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone and current Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, who is set to chair the programme, and Professor Patrick Loch Otieno Lumumba, the renowned Pan-African scholar and activist, who will deliver a keynote address.

AUST’s head of media services and public relations, Obioha Atulomah, said in a statement that the postponement became necessary to allow for better planning and broader stakeholder engagement. “The aim is to ensure a more inclusive and impactful summit experience that meets the expectations of our partners, speakers, and participants from across the continent and beyond,” he stated.

He added that AUST and its partners remain committed to strengthening Africa’s innovation and investment ecosystem. The new date for the African Innovation and Investment Summit will be announced soon, as preparations continue to deliver an impactful and collaborative event for all stakeholders.

Wamakko sponsors training of 100 Sokoto youths in solar energy installation

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Wamakko sponsors training of 100 Sokoto youths in solar energy installation

Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, a former Governor of Sokoto State and the current Senator representing Sokoto North Senatorial District, has sponsored the training of 100 constituents in solar photovoltaic (PV) installation, maintenance, and repair.

The 21-day intensive training, which began on Monday at the Sokoto Energy Research Centre, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, aims to equip participants with practical skills in renewable energy technologies and sustainable power solutions. The programme focuses on promoting clean energy, solar power systems, and practical knowledge that can drive economic growth through green technology.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Wamakko, represented by his Director of Administration, Alhaji Mustapha Abubakar, said the initiative aligns with the global shift toward renewable energy and reflects his commitment to empowering youths with practical, income-generating skills.

He explained that the programme was designed to complement the Sokoto State Government’s commitment to renewable energy development and to support Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s Nine-Point Smart Agenda. According to him, the training would not only promote skills development but also enhance employment, empowerment, and sustainable growth across communities.

“This is one of the most desirable skills young people need in the 21st century to remain self-employed and contribute meaningfully to society,” he said. “Through solar energy, we can provide potable water, cook food, and reduce carbon emissions. The world is moving away from conventional energy sources to renewable ones, and solar remains one of the most viable options, especially for our state.”

The Senator commended the management of the Sokoto Energy Research Centre for partnering in the initiative and urged participants to take full advantage of the opportunity. He disclosed that each trainee would receive transport allowances throughout the programme and would also be provided with start-up tools and funding upon completion.

In his remarks, the Director of the Centre, Prof. Mu’azu Musa, said the training would expose participants to practical solutions that address the challenges of climate change and promote the use of clean energy. “Renewable energy is now a vital component in addressing the effects of climate change caused by fossil fuel usage,” he stated, adding that participants would receive certificates upon completion and continued access to the Centre’s technical guidance.

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Sokoto State Arabic Board, Alhaji Ahmed Altine, commended Senator Wamakko for his consistent investment in human capital development, describing the gesture as a continuation of his long-standing commitment to community empowerment initiatives.

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