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CDCFIB shortlist rumors spread after August promotion exams

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Rumors have been circulating on social media, especially on Facebook, that the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) shortlist will be released after the promotion examinations. However, contrary to those claims, the CDCFIB promotion exams already took place back in August.

The last reported promotion examinations were held on August 26, 2025. On that Monday, a total of 2,363 officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) sat for their promotion exams. These officers are eligible for promotion to the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Corps as part of the ongoing Batch ‘B’ 2025 promotion exercise involving 29,447 officers across the four paramilitary services.

Since then, there has been no major update from the CDCFIB regarding the shortlist or further recruitment details.

Meanwhile, the total number of applications received for the CDCFIB recruitment exercise stands at 1,914,349, while only about 30,150 candidates will be recruited across the four agencies.

Shortlisted applicants are expected to be contacted soon with further instructions via email and SMS. Authorities have urged candidates to closely monitor their email inboxes and text messages over the coming weeks for possible notifications and updates from the board.

Attached below is screenshot of the circulating message, which candidates should ignore.

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Senator launches foreign scholarship scheme for Borno graduates

Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Chief Whip of the 10th Senate, has said that Borno State can only rise above the scars of insurgency through education and opportunity.

Monguno made this known in Maiduguri during the launch of the M.T. Monguno Foreign Scholarship Scheme, where 11 graduates from Borno North were awarded full scholarships to pursue master’s degree programmes in India. The senator described the initiative as the first legislature-facilitated international scholarship package in the history of the state.

“This initiative is a deliberate effort to empower our brightest youths with the tools to compete globally and return home to rebuild our communities,” he said.

According to the senator, the scholarship programme is worth hundreds of millions of naira and will cover tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, laptops, academic materials, visa processing, and travel costs. Each of the selected candidates holds at least a second-class upper degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. They were chosen after passing an aptitude test conducted by an independent committee.

The two-year programme will consist of one year of coursework and another dedicated to research. Monguno explained that the intervention aligns with the Borno State governor’s education-driven recovery agenda aimed at rebuilding communities affected by insecurity.

He further pledged to sustain the foreign scholarship scheme annually, describing it as a major investment in human capital development that would bring long-term benefits to Borno State and Nigeria as a whole.

Oluremi Tinubu calls for urgent action on teacher shortage

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The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has joined the global community in celebrating teachers on World Teachers’ Day 2025, urging renewed attention to the pressing global teacher shortage. She emphasized that the issue must be confronted with urgency to strengthen education systems and empower educators.

In her official statement released on October 5, she said, “On this World Teachers’ Day 2025, with the theme ‘Focusing on the Global Teacher Shortage,’ calls for the need to draw more attention to one of society’s noblest professions.”

According to the First Lady, the shortage of qualified teachers remains a major concern worldwide, and it requires deliberate actions from governments, institutions, and stakeholders. “The shortage of teachers is a challenge we must confront with urgency, by empowering educators, investing in their growth, and inspiring more to join this noble profession,” she stated.

Senator Tinubu described teachers as “true heroes, shaping minds, nurturing dreams, and guiding generations.” She noted that teachers play a key role in building the foundation of every society and deserve recognition, respect, and continuous support to carry out their responsibilities effectively.

Reflecting on her personal background, the First Lady added, “As a lifelong teacher myself, I salute you all on this special day.” She concluded her message with, “Happy World Teachers’ Day 2025.”

World Teachers’ Day is observed annually on October 5 to honor educators across the globe. It was established in 1994 to commemorate the signing of recommendations by the International Labour Organisation and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, highlighting the importance of teachers in achieving quality education worldwide.

2025 Lagos primary health care board recruitment opens for professionals

The Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (LSPHCB) has officially announced the commencement of its 2025 recruitment exercise for qualified health professionals across various categories. The recruitment, approved by Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, aims to strengthen the state’s healthcare delivery system in line with the THEMES PLUS Agenda.

In a statement released by the board, it stated, “With the kind approval of Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board hereby announce the opening of its official application portal for interested and qualified Health Professionals who are willing, and ready to contribute to the delivery of Quality Health Care in Primary Level in tandem with the THEMES PLUS Agenda of the State.”

The available positions include Medical Officers, Nurses/Midwives, Pharmacists, Pharmacy Technicians, Community Health Officers, Community Health Extension Workers, Medical Laboratory Scientists, Medical Laboratory Technicians, Environmental Health Officers, Environmental Health Technologists, Environmental Health Technicians, Health Information Management Officers, Health Information Management Technicians, and Health Education and Health Promotion Officers.

Applicants must possess relevant professional degrees or certificates from accredited institutions and hold valid practicing licenses from recognized councils such as the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN), Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN), Health Records Officers Registration Board of Nigeria (HROBN), Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON), or the Community Health Practitioners Registration Board of Nigeria (CHPRBN).

The board also emphasized that possession of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Discharge or Exemption Certificate is mandatory where applicable. Candidates must have at least five credits in WAEC, NECO, or SSCE, including English Language, Mathematics, and relevant science subjects. Applicants are required to provide evidence of registration with their respective professional boards, a Birth Certificate or Age Declaration, and proof of good character and sound health.

According to the announcement, “Computer literacy and basic knowledge of health information management or record-keeping will be an added advantage. Additional professional qualifications or specialization certificates relevant to public health practice will be considered an advantage.”

The recruitment portal link is available at https://lasgphcb.com.ng/sp/recruitment/, and will be open from October 1 to October 14, 2025. The board warned that the application is free and that no individual or group is authorized to collect money for the exercise.

Tony Elumelu Foundation donates N1bn to wmpower 18,500 women

The Tony Elumelu Foundation has donated N1 billion to the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) to support 500 women from each of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with N50,000 each to strengthen and grow their businesses. The initiative aims to promote women’s economic empowerment and entrepreneurship across Nigeria.

Speaking in Owerri, the Imo State capital, during the launch of the Women Economic Empowerment Programme, the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, said the programme, which is under the Renewed Hope Initiative Women, in collaboration with the Tony Elumelu Foundation, represents part of the federal government’s broader efforts to empower women economically.

The event, which took place at the Banquet Hall, Government House Owerri, was attended by women from across the 27 local government areas of the state. Represented by the wife of the Imo State Governor, Mrs Chioma Uzodimma, the First Lady said the empowerment programme focuses on women traders and small-scale business owners who play vital roles in supporting their families and communities.

According to Mrs Tinubu, “This economic empowerment programme is about supporting the entrepreneurial spirit of women traders and small-scale business owners who provide for their families, educate their children, and uplift their communities.”

She explained that the grant is not a loan but a seed capital from the Renewed Hope Initiative to help women re-capitalise and expand their existing businesses. “I believe that when you empower a woman, you empower a household, a community, and indeed a nation,” she said.

The First Lady expressed appreciation to Governor Hope Uzodimma and his wife for their support in implementing the various programmes of the Renewed Hope Initiative across the state.

In his own gesture, Governor Uzodimma added another N50,000 to the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s grant, bringing the total to N100,000 for each of the pre-selected beneficiaries from Imo State. The gesture was well received by the women, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to grow their businesses.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of N100,000 cash each to 500 women beneficiaries by Mrs Chioma Uzodimma on behalf of the First Lady.

In another development, Governor Hope Uzodimma has charged the Board and management of the Anambra-Imo River Basin Development Authority to bridge the gaps in key sectors such as water, agriculture, power, food security, and livestock across the South-east and Nigeria in general.

The governor, while receiving the delegation led by the Chairman of the Board, Senator Emmanuel Anosike, and the Managing Director, Hon. Emeka Nduka, at the Government House, Owerri, expressed confidence in their competence. He said, “I have no doubt in the capacity and integrity of this new board, given the experience and background of the Chairman and Managing Director.”

He urged them to work effectively to deliver sustainable development and improve the region’s economic growth through their mandate.

Oluremi Tinubu empowers 500 Edo women with N50,000 each

First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Saturday empowered 500 women in Edo State with N50,000 each under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), an empowerment programme aimed at supporting small business owners across the country. The event, held in Benin City, was conducted in partnership with the Tony Elumelu Foundation.

Speaking during the presentation of the cash grants, Senator Tinubu said the initiative was designed to strengthen existing businesses and enhance the economic resilience of Nigerian women. She explained that the grant was part of efforts to support women-owned enterprises and improve their livelihoods.

Represented by the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady of Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpeholo Anani, the First Lady urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the money to grow their ventures. “This is not a loan; it is a grant – a seed of renewed hope to help you recapitalise your existing businesses,” she said. “It is my firm belief that when you empower a woman, you empower a household, a community, and indeed, a nation.”

Senator Tinubu further noted that the Tony Elumelu Foundation had generously donated N1 billion to the Renewed Hope Initiative to fund the empowerment of 18,500 women across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. “Each state, including the FCT, will have 500 women beneficiaries, each receiving N50,000 to support and expand their small businesses,” she added.

In her remarks, Mrs. Anani thanked the Tony Elumelu Foundation for its partnership and commitment to women’s economic growth. “May this act of generosity inspire many more across our nation,” she said. She also expressed appreciation to Edo State Governor, Monday Okpeholo, and Senator Tinubu for their continuous support in ensuring the successful implementation of RHI programmes in the state.

One of the beneficiaries, Otaru Patience, said the financial support would go a long way in boosting her business. Another beneficiary, Adesuwa Obasogie, appealed for an increase in the grant amount, citing the current economic challenges in the country.

Other dignitaries present at the event included the Chairperson, National Council of Women Society, Edo State Chapter, Taiwo Inumidune; Special Adviser on Sustainable Development Goals, Mrs. Barbara Omozele Agbebaku; and Director of Control and Immunisation, Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Eseigbe Eromon.

FG begins civil service verification and skills audit exercise

The Presidency, through the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF), has announced the commencement of a comprehensive Verification Exercise across the Federal Civil Service as part of efforts to reposition the sector for excellence.

According to a statement issued by the OHCSF, the exercise is being conducted in partnership with Phillips Consulting and other Human Resources firms to verify and update personnel records, identify skills and capacity gaps, and support workforce planning and reforms across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

“All Civil Servants are enjoined to cooperate fully by presenting themselves for verification and providing accurate information as required,” the statement read. It emphasized that the verification covers all Federal Civil Servants, including Pool Officers in MDAs, Extra-Ministerial Departments and Agencies, Federal Secretariats, and offices in the states, as well as officers in the diaspora.

The OHCSF noted that the Personnel and Skills Gap Analysis Exercise (PASGA) is designed to be transparent, participatory, and confidential. Tagged “Building Skills, Closing Gaps,” the exercise is scheduled to run from 15th October to 14th November 2025.

The initiative follows a presidential directive aimed at enhancing service delivery across the Federal Civil Service. The OHCSF clarified that the exercise “is not a retrenchment or witch-hunt process,” but rather a means of identifying skill gaps for proper alignment and training needs.

To ensure the process runs smoothly, civil servants are advised to follow five key steps outlined by the OHCSF.

Step one, according to the circular, is to stay informed. “Pay attention to official circulars, internal memos, and visit official social media handles and the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation’s website. Take note of verification dates, time, venues, and required documents,” it stated.

Step two requires workers to gather all necessary documents, including educational qualifications, letters of first appointment and confirmation, gazette of appointment, last promotion letter, current staff ID card, last payslip, IPPIS, NIN, BVN, NHIS, NHF, TIN, and PEN numbers. Both photocopies and originals will be needed for sighting.

The third step advises civil servants to ensure the accuracy of their personal records. “Check that personal details such as name, date of birth, grade level, and IPPIS number are consistent across all documents. Correct any discrepancies with HR before the exercise,” the OHCSF added.

Step four directs officers to attend the physical verification exercise at their designated verification centers. They are to submit all required documents for review and clearance.

The fifth step involves the skills gap analysis and training needs assessment, comparing current performance with desired goals to identify areas for improvement, enhance performance, and boost employee engagement.

The OHCSF confirmed that the exercise will hold daily from 8:00 am in all MDAs, Extra-Ministerial Departments, and Agencies, including offices across the federation and in the diaspora.

TETFund allocates N7.4bn for Akwa Ibom College of Education

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The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has allocated N7.4 billion for infrastructural development at the College of Education, Afaha Nsit, located in the Nsit-Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. The chairman of TETFund’s Board of Trustees and former governor of Katsina State, Alhaji Aminu Masari, made this known on Friday while commissioning a newly built N1.3 billion administrative block and ICT centre at the college.

Masari explained that from the total allocation, N6.9 billion has already been accessed, leaving a balance of N462.9 million, most of which has been committed to ongoing projects. He said, “The total cost of the projects to be commissioned today is N1,391,116,511.32. You may also wish to know that from the start of TETFund interventions at this college, the Fund has allocated a total of N7,388,131,247.96 for infrastructure-related projects only. Out of this, a total of N6,925,204,879.46 has been accessed, leaving a balance of N462,926,368.50, most of which is already committed.”

The TETFund chairman reaffirmed the Fund’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure in tertiary institutions across the country. According to him, the commissioning of the new projects aligns with TETFund’s broader vision of making Nigerian tertiary institutions globally competitive and relevant in the digital age.

“For us at TETFund, the inauguration of projects is a pointer to progress and success in aligning with TETFund’s vision of making our institutions globally relevant and competitive in this age of pronounced digital advancement and the increasing relevance and impact of artificial intelligence,” he said. “We are resolved, as an agency of the Federal Government, to keep pace with current advancements and are making significant efforts to ensure that our beneficiary institutions are up to date through support to acquire relevant tools for knowledge creation, learning, research, teacher training, entrepreneurship and skills development.”

The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, who was represented by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Umoh, commended TETFund for its continued support in improving the quality of education in the state. He described the new projects at the College of Education and the ongoing developments at Akwa Ibom State University as clear evidence of TETFund’s impact.

“These interventions show the extent to which the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu and the ARISE agenda of the state government are shaping education to make life better for Nigerians,” Eno said. “From what we see in Akwa Ibom State University—a significant signature of TETFund—and what we are seeing here at the College of Education, Afaha Nsit, in accessing over N7 billion, this is commendable. It shows how the President’s renewed emphasis on education aligns with our ARISE priorities to make Nigeria hopeful and greater again.”

The Provost of the College of Education, Prof. Daniel Udo, recalled that when he assumed office, there were unaccessed interventions from 2017 to 2020. He said the college was at risk of losing these funds due to delayed applications but was able to resolve the issue after discussions with TETFund officials in Abuja. Udo expressed appreciation for the intervention, noting that it has repositioned the college for better academic performance and infrastructural growth.

Niger State first lady warns public against fake grant offers

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The Office of the First Lady of Niger State has issued a disclaimer warning the public against fraudulent individuals and groups claiming to offer grants or financial assistance in the name of Her Excellency, Hajiya Fatima Mohammed Bago, Wife of the Executive Governor of Niger State.

In a statement released by her office, it was stated that, “The attention of the Office of Her Excellency, Hajiya Fatima Mohammed Bago, Wife of the Executive Governor of Niger State, has been drawn to reports of individuals and groups claiming to offer grants or financial assistance in her name.”

The statement further advised the public to disregard such claims, emphasizing that Her Excellency has not authorized anyone to collect money, property, or any form of payment in exchange for empowerment or support programmes. It added that genuine programmes from the Office of the First Lady are only announced through verified government channels and are completely free of charge.

Big Brother Naija season 10 finale holds today, winner to get N150m

The grand finale of Big Brother Naija Season 10 takes place today, Sunday, October 5, 2025, marking the end of months of intense competition and entertainment. This season’s winner will walk away with prizes worth N150 million, the biggest reward in the show’s history, making it one of the most talked-about television events in Nigeria.

The season, which premiered across two nights on Saturday and Sunday, July 26 and 27, 2025, began with 29 housemates entering the Big Brother house. After weeks of challenges, evictions, and dramatic twists, only nine contestants have made it to the final showdown. The finalists are Kola, Imisi, Isabella, Sultana, Jason Jae, Mensan, Koyin, Kaybobo, and Dede. Faith, who also made it to the finals, was disqualified a few days ago following a rule violation.

While each finalist has their own supporters, a few have stood out as clear fan favourites due to their gameplay, personality, and online following. Imisi, Koyin, and Dede have all made strong impressions on both the audience and fellow contestants, generating massive buzz across social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter).

Imisi, a 23-year-old contestant, has been one of the season’s breakout stars. Known for her originality and creativity, she has remained a social media sensation throughout the show. Her expressive reactions and genuine attitude have won her a loyal fan base. Online polls show her consistently ranking among the top housemates, with many fans praising her “relatable personality” and “authentic energy.”

Koyin has also gained a large following thanks to his charm and friendly personality. His interactions with other housemates have been well received, and he was among the most followed contestants online before his Instagram account was temporarily disabled. Many viewers see him as a strong contender for the grand prize, with others predicting he will at least finish in the top three.

Dede, on the other hand, has taken a more strategic route to the finale. Known for her composure and focus, she has earned respect for her deliberate gameplay. In one of her conversations, she confidently stated, “This is a game for money, not a friendship camp,” a quote that quickly went viral and highlighted her determination to win the N150 million prize.