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Bauchi flags off digital storytelling, entrepreneurship masterclass

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The Office of the Special Adviser on Youth and Entrepreneurship, Bauchi State, today flagged off the Digital Storytelling and Entrepreneurship Masterclass, a transformative training initiative facilitated by Huzban Media Academy Bauchi.

The physical workshop, which began on Saturday, 13th September 2025, at the Zamani TV Conference Hall in Bauchi, is fully sponsored by the Office of the Special Adviser and will hold every Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

According to the organizers, the program is structured to equip participants with essential skills in content creation, digital storytelling, branding, and entrepreneurship. The aim is to prepare young people to turn their creativity into sustainable livelihoods. Participants are also expected to benefit from networking opportunities, mentorship, certificates, free learning kits, and refreshments provided during the sessions.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Special Adviser on Youth and Entrepreneurship, Hon. Mohammed Atiku Isah, emphasized his commitment to supporting Bauchi youth with modern skills aligned with today’s digital economy. He explained that the initiative focuses not just on creating digital content but also on influencing culture, driving change, and building enterprises in a fast-growing market.

“This program will nurture a new generation of digital leaders, creative storytellers, and successful entrepreneurs in Bauchi State. It is about turning creativity into opportunity, and opportunity into impact,” Hon. Isah stated during his remarks at the event.

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Group assures delivery of 2,000 housing units for Plateau civil servants

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DSK Group International Limited has pledged to deliver the 2,000-housing-unit project recently flagged off by Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang for civil servants on schedule, maintaining high standards and strong security throughout the process.

Chairman of the company, David Sabo Kente, gave the assurance in an interview with journalists over the weekend in Jos. He emphasized that DSK Group has a proven track record of durable housing projects across Nigeria and Africa.

Kente explained that the housing scheme is being implemented under the National Housing Programme, with financing support from the Federal Mortgage Bank and the Pension Commission, while the Plateau State Government provided the land.

He noted that the company paid over ₦300 million to the host community for full land acquisition, resolving a major issue that had previously caused mass housing projects in the state to fail.

“This is not the first project we are handling that has to do with Plateau people. Our first project was the Kwararafa Estate in Abuja, that was acquired by Bingham University. If you go there today, more than 10 years after completion, the quality of the structures remains excellent,” Kente said, assuring residents of the same durability and quality.

On the issue of security, Kente stated that concrete measures have been put in place to protect materials and workers throughout the construction period. According to him, several security outfits will be deployed to work alongside government agencies to guarantee safety, especially given the history of instability in the area.

He also explained that the company’s operational plan includes phased construction, strict monitoring, and adherence to design specifications to ensure timely delivery of the project.

He stressed that the pay-for-delivery financing model, where units are completed before payments are made, strengthens accountability and guarantees steady progress.

Providing more details, the Project Manager, Engr. Christopher Nathaniel, confirmed that the scheme is specifically targeted at supporting civil servants in Plateau State. He disclosed that construction will commence immediately, with the first set of housing units expected to be ready within the next two to three months.

“Site preparation and groundwork have already begun, with the project team working closely with the government to meet deadlines and maintain quality standards,” Nathaniel said.

Akpabio to launch PWD empowerment programme in Akwa Ibom

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Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, will on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, officially flag off empowerment programmes for Persons With Disabilities, PWDs, across the three Senatorial Districts of Akwa Ibom State. The event is scheduled to hold at Ikot Ekpene.

The initiative is being carried out by Dudu Foundation, a humanitarian charity, in partnership with the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC. The programme will provide wheelchairs to aid mobility and trade tools to support economic livelihood for people living with disabilities.

According to a statement issued by the Founder of the Foundation, Ms Edu Offong, the Senate President will be joined by the Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, during the event.

The statement also highlighted that Senator Akpabio has been a strong supporter of the Foundation since its creation during his tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom State.

“When I first heard of the efforts of an ordinary citizen to step in to assist the government in helping the vulnerable in our society, I was moved,” Senator Akpabio said. Dr Ogbuku was also reported to have been inspired by the zeal and passion of the Foundation’s Founder, describing the work as a way of bringing succour to those with disabilities.

The empowerment programme is designed to reach 90 beneficiaries in total, with 30 selected from each of the three senatorial districts of Akwa Ibom State.

The selection process was carried out through an online nomination portal that was opened to the public last month. Organisers explained that the use of the portal ensured transparency and allowed the public to play a role in nominating beneficiaries.

The statement added that the programme falls within the social welfare plans of the NDDC, aimed at making the Niger Delta region an inclusive space for all persons regardless of gender, ability, or skill level.

Dudu Foundation, known for initiatives such as the Back to School programme and financial support for entrepreneurs, is extending its outreach once again with this empowerment scheme to provide tools and opportunities for vulnerable groups in the state.

Adamawa to begin promotion of over 10,000 teachers in batches after delay

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Teachers in the state are set to benefit from a long-awaited promotion exercise, which will now be implemented in phases. The Acting Executive Secretary of the Board, Mr. Birsan Penuel, announced that the promotion of teachers will be carried out in batches due to the large number of teachers in the system, which he estimated to be over 10,000 across the state.

Speaking on the progress made so far, Mr. Penuel disclosed that more than 400 teachers who had earlier been promoted, before his assumption of office, have already started receiving their financial benefits.

He explained that their entitlements began reflecting from last month’s salary and assured that the process would continue progressively until all deserving teachers benefit.

He highlighted the challenges that have delayed this development, stating that teachers in the state have not been promoted since 2018. According to him, some cases of pending promotions still exist, but the Board is working diligently to ensure that due process is followed to deliver a positive and fair outcome for all affected staff.

To speed up the implementation, the Secret Registry staff and the typists at the typing pool are contributing significantly. He said they are working tirelessly to ensure that the process is smooth and efficient, stressing that every detail is being handled with care so that no teacher is left behind.

Mr. Penuel further praised the support and commitment of the state leadership. He expressed confidence in the directives of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, the Governor of the state.

He described the Governor as a man of his word who has shown genuine concern for the welfare of teachers. “Since the Governor has directed that the teachers be promoted, I am confident that the financial implementation will be fully sustained, as it is already underway,” he stated.

The announcement has brought relief to many teachers who have been waiting for years for their career growth to be recognized. With the assurance that the promotion exercise will continue in phases, there is growing hope that both the backlog of pending cases and new entitlements will be addressed.

The Board, under the leadership of Mr. Penuel, has pledged to ensure fairness and transparency throughout the exercise, stressing that the welfare of teachers remains a top priority for the administration.

Nasarawa trains students under catch them young programme

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Nasarawa State Government has trained 600 primary and junior secondary school pupils in different skill acquisitions across the state. The one-month training program, tagged “Catch Them Young,” involved children aged 5 to 15 drawn from various schools and was held at the Wing Commander Abdullahi Ibrahim Vocational and Technology Institute in Lafia.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Governor Abdullahi Sule reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding similar technology institutes across the three senatorial zones of the state.

He said the initiative was designed to prepare more youths and women for opportunities in information communication technology, tailoring, baking, and cosmetology.

According to him, “skills and technical education play a critical role in shaping and moulding the future of younger generations in the country,” adding that his administration will continue to give attention to vocational and technological education.

The governor noted that the training program reflects the government’s response to the complexity and dynamics of technology in today’s society.

He emphasized that more investments would be made in educational infrastructure that supports skill acquisition, while also encouraging parents to allow their children to embrace vocational learning.

The Executive Director of the Wing Commander Abdullahi Ibrahim Vocational and Technology Institute, Doctor Daniel Ewuga, said the “Catch Them Young” training was carefully designed to equip participants with skills, values, and visions that will make them better leaders in the future.

One of the graduands, Abdullahi Yakubu Lamai, who participated in the ICT training, expressed gratitude to the state government and the institute. He said, “this training has exposed me to the nitty-gritty of technological advancement,” stressing that it has broadened his knowledge of digital opportunities.

The event ended with Governor Sule walking the 2025 theme tagged “one family, one technician.”

FCSC 2025 online promotion accreditation opens for level 14-16

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The Federal Civil Service Commission has announced the commencement of the 2025 online promotion accreditation for officers on grade level 14 to 16.

In line with its mandate on recruitment, promotion and discipline, the Commission stated that this exercise is in accordance with the earlier Circular no FC.6243l/GOV/2025/VOLI.1 dated 12th May, 2025.

According to the announcement, all eligible and qualified candidates are expected to begin their accreditation online through the Federal Civil Service Commission website at promotion.fedcivilservice.gov.ng. The process will run from Friday, 12th September to Sunday, 28th September, 2025.

The Commission further explained that “log-in details will be sent to all accredited candidates through their email address to access the portal to complete their accreditation before the closing date of 28th September, 2025.”

It also advised that officers concerned, including those on duty posts within and outside their Headquarters and abroad, should complete the accreditation within the stipulated period to avoid missing the deadline.

Call for applications: Benue State BDIC call for artisans

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The Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) has announced a call for all artisans in Benue State, including carpenters, tailors, welders, electricians, mechanics, bricklayers, plumbers, painters, and shoemakers, to attend an important meeting. According to BDIC, the gathering is part of the Digital Transformation and Empowerment Program of the Governor Alia-led administration.

“This meeting will open doors to new digital opportunities, training, and support for artisans across the state,” the company stated.

The initiative is designed to strengthen artisans and position them for growth in today’s economy, where digital skills and innovation are increasingly important.

How to apply:

Interested participants are urged to sign up and complete the application form through this link https://forms.gle/zF8YaSiT6iCW6bPv8 or call +234 7067846032 for more information.

Lagos Job Fair 2025 empowers youths with opportunities

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Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has restated his administration’s commitment to equipping Lagosians, especially the youth, with the skills, tools, and opportunities required to succeed in today’s competitive economy.

At the 2025 Lagos State Job Fair, organised by the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment on Thursday at the Blue Roof, Lagos Television, Agidingbi, Ikeja, the Governor described the fair as a demonstration of the State Government’s resolve to create an inclusive economy where no talent is wasted and every ambition is supported.

Represented by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, the Governor explained that the theme of this year’s fair, “Your Career, Your Way: Explore Endless Possibilities”, directly connects with the aspirations of young Lagosians.

According to him, the theme encourages youths to build careers and entrepreneurial ventures that reflect their individual strengths while contributing to the prosperity of Lagos State and Nigeria.

He stressed that under the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Development Agenda, youth empowerment remains a central priority. He highlighted ongoing programmes such as vocational training, digital literacy initiatives, skills acquisition schemes, and entrepreneurship support, noting that these efforts will position young people to access sustainable employment and expand opportunities for wealth creation.

During the event, the Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing, Mr. Toriola Abdulafeez, called on stakeholders to partner with the government in driving wealth creation initiatives. He explained that the participation of the private sector remains vital to implementing lasting solutions for employment generation.

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, described the fair as a promise fulfilled by the current administration. He said, “The Lagos Job Fair is not just an event but a lifeline and a promise kept by the administration of Governor Sanwo-Olu.”

Ajigbotafe disclosed that over 200,000 jobs have been created in the last four years through direct and indirect interventions of the Ministry. He pointed to programmes such as the Graduate Internship Placement Programme, vocational training centres, and the recently launched Leather Hub in Mushin, designed to transform creativity into enterprise and generate more employment for residents.

He added that billions of naira have been released through the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund to support start-ups, small businesses, and young entrepreneurs. This financial assistance, he explained, has enabled beneficiaries to grow their businesses, create new jobs, and stimulate economic development across ICT, manufacturing, and creative industries.

Commending partners of the initiative, the Commissioner acknowledged employers of labour, development partners, and technical experts including Human Capital Partners and Intermarc for their contributions in keeping the platform alive and ensuring access to opportunities for young talents in Lagos.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Esv. Wasiu Adebayo Olayinka, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his leadership and continuous support of youth-focused projects.

He also recognised the Honourable Commissioner, panellists, keynote speakers, employers of labour, and participants for their roles in making the fair a success. Olayinka assured that the Ministry would continue to deliver sustainable platforms for wealth creation and decent work.

The programme featured a panel session with the Chairman, Lagos State Civil Service Commission, Mrs. Boladele Dapo-Thomas, while the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Establishment and Training, Mrs. Olubusola Abidakun, moderated the discussion.

More than 300 organisations across sectors such as finance, healthcare, ICT, logistics, media, manufacturing, and the creative economy participated in the 2025 Job Fair.

Over five thousand job seekers, graduates, and entrepreneurs attended, exploring career opportunities and entrepreneurship support programmes designed to promote economic growth and financial inclusion.

Sanwo-Olu calls for Lagos-Poland economic partnership

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Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has called for stronger trade and investment partnerships between Lagos and Poland, describing both economies as natural partners with shared aspirations for growth and prosperity.

The Governor made this call at the inaugural Polish-Nigerian Economic Forum, organised by the Polish Investment and Trade Agency and the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Nigeria, held at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, explained that strengthening economic ties with Poland will position Lagos as a globally competitive hub for investment, trade, and innovation.

His words, “As a government, we reaffirm our readiness to welcome investors, innovators, and partners from Poland to explore the limitless opportunities our State offers. We are committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, driven by transparency, security, infrastructure, and the sheer dynamism of our people,” he said.

He acknowledged Poland’s remarkable transformation into one of Europe’s most dynamic economies, noting that Lagos recognises and appreciates this journey. He added that there is much to learn, share, and build together.

The Governor highlighted key areas of potential collaboration between Lagos and Poland, which include infrastructure and urban development, energy and clean technology, digital economy and cybersecurity, transport and logistics, healthcare and medical equipment, as well as agriculture and food processing.

According to him, Lagos, with a population of over 22 million people, contributes more than 30 percent of Nigeria’s GDP and serves as the principal gateway to West Africa. He noted that his administration is implementing the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda, which drives development in infrastructure, transportation, renewable energy, housing, healthcare, digitization of government services, and the creative economy.

Sanwo-Olu emphasized that Lagos is building the framework for lasting prosperity and inclusive growth. He commended the vision and commitment of the organisers for convening the Forum, describing it as timely, strategic, and aligned with the shared aspirations of Nigeria and Poland for sustainable growth, innovation, and prosperity.

“This Forum is a bridge between Lagos, the heartbeat of Africa’s economy, and Poland, a rising force in Europe. Together, we can build enduring partnerships that will not only strengthen economic ties between our nations but also chart a new course of prosperity for our peoples,” the Governor stated.

Also speaking at the event, the Federal Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, represented by the Director of Investment Promotion, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade & Investment, Mrs. Gertrude A. Orji, said that Nigeria is open for business and is ambitious in its collaboration with Poland in critical areas such as agriculture and agro-processing, infrastructure, oil and gas, renewable energy resources, as well as manufacturing and technology where Poland has deep expertise.

Dr. Oduwole explained that under the leadership of the present administration, Nigeria’s economic revival is anchored on trade expansion through the Renewed Hope Agenda. She stressed that the nation is shifting away from dependency on oil and gas towards a diversified, export-oriented economy.

In his remarks, Ambassador-Designate of the Republic of Poland in Abuja, Michal Cygan, stated that the Forum showcased opportunities for both Nigeria and Poland to benefit from complementary strengths across trade, investment, innovation, and human capital development.

Cygan noted that the event marked a new chapter of strengthened partnership and shared prosperity, highlighting Nigeria’s vast potential, particularly its vibrant youth population and thriving technology sector, as a critical area for collaboration. He also revealed that with over 4,000 Nigerian students currently studying in Poland, people-to-people ties serve as the bedrock of future bilateral relations.

Earlier in her welcome address, Head of the Foreign Trade Office in Lagos, Justyna Sitarska, reaffirmed Poland’s readiness to partner with Nigeria, stressing that Nigeria is an important economic partner for her country.

Sitarska pointed out that only one per cent of all Polish exports currently reach Africa, which she described as low and insufficient given Poland’s economic strength. She emphasized that this statistic underscores the vast potential and readiness for deeper economic cooperation between Poland and Africa, particularly Nigeria.

The Polish-Nigerian Economic Forum brought together policymakers, investors, and business leaders to explore new opportunities in trade, investment, and innovation, while reinforcing the long-term bilateral relationship between both nations.

NDE Phase 2 beneficiaries directed to resume training via dashboard

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The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has begun informing beneficiaries to resume their training under the second phase of its program.

According to the update, successful applicants who have already received their email notifications and SMS invitations for the commencement of training can now confirm details from their dashboard through the official portal.

The NDE dashboard displays each candidate’s assigned training center, including the center name and the contact person.

It also shows the address of the training center along with the email, phone number, and the training capacity. Some centers have a capacity of 200, meaning only 200 trainees will be accommodated.

Beneficiaries are also provided with an option to download an acknowledgement slip, which must be submitted at the training center.

One beneficiary shared, “my training will commence on Monday 15th Sept, 2025.” Candidates are advised to keep checking their dashboards for updates and avoid contacting any unofficial NDE person.

Trainings already happening across states, including Abia, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Borno, Cross River, Enugu, Imo, Jigawa, Kano, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Ogun, Oyo, Plateau, Sokoto and many more. Our trainees are learning valuable skills in:

a. Confectionary and finger food production
b. Fish production and feed formulation techniques (FPFFT)
c. Cloud computing
d. Organic Agricultural Training Scheme (OATS)
e. Small Stock Production Training Scheme (SSGPTS)
f. Community-Based Agricultural Empowerment Scheme (CBAES)
g. NDE-Enterprise and Finance Counselling Clinic (NDE-EFCC)
h. Community-Based Agricultural Training Scheme (CBATS)
i. Sustainable Agricultural Development Training Scheme (SADTS)