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FG unveils creative economy data mapping report to boost CEDF

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FG unveils creative economy data mapping report to boost CEDF

The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy has unveiled the Creative Economy Data Mapping Report at the Creative Industries Economic Coordination and Investment Summit in Lagos. The event was part of the 2025 Creative Economy Week organised by the British Council @ngbritish and brought together stakeholders from across Nigeria’s creative sector.

According to the Ministry, the report is the first of its kind at this scale and provides a detailed overview of opportunities across the creative economy value chain, covering film, music, fashion, design, digital content, tourism, and cultural infrastructure. Officials explained that the findings identify areas where financing, infrastructure, and investment are urgently required while spotlighting priority sectors with the potential to drive economic growth.

The summit also focused on strategies to unlock investment channels that will enable the Creative Economy Development Fund (CEDF) and the Creative and Tourism Infrastructure Corporation (CTICo) to mobilise resources, scale interventions, and attract private capital alongside government and development finance institutions.

Speaking at the event, ministry representatives said, “This data-driven roadmap lays the foundation for achieving our commitment to delivering two million creative economy jobs by 2030 under the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

Stakeholders participated in deep-dive validation sessions to refine the report’s findings ahead of its public release. The Ministry stated that the document will serve as a practical tool for private sector players and investors to explore opportunities across the creative and cultural sectors using reliable and informed insights.

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Katsina Council sets cybersecurity training date at BETI ICT Centre

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Katsina Council sets cybersecurity training date at BETI ICT Centre

Katsina Local Government Council has announced that the first batch of its Cybersecurity Training Program will hold on Saturday, 27th September 2025, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at BETI ICT Centre, Katsina. The training is being organised in partnership with Kebram Tech Nigeria Limited.

The council stated that this initiative is part of its commitment to providing young people with modern digital skills, especially in cybersecurity, which is crucial in today’s technology driven world. The program will offer practical knowledge and hands on experience to boost employability, entrepreneurship, and online safety.

According to the organisers, all selected participants must check their emails for registration details and confirm attendance before 25th September 2025. “Only those who accept the invitation before the deadline will be allowed to participate in the training,” they emphasised.

The council has assured residents that this is only the beginning of a wider plan to improve human capital development across Katsina. Officials revealed that similar training sessions will be rolled out in phases to cover more wards in the local government area.

“This initiative shows our administration’s resolve to foster innovation, empower the youth, and build a digitally skilled community capable of competing favourably at national and international levels,” the council said.

Benue Gov flags off fertilizer distribution to create millionaire farmers

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Benue Gov flags off fertilizer distribution to create millionaire farmers

Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming agriculture in the state, unveiling a bold plan to produce hundreds of millionaire farmers within the next two years.

The Governor made the declaration in Makurdi at the official flag-off of the 2025 cropping season and distribution of subsidized fertilizers and farm inputs. He emphasised that his government’s priority is to reposition Benue as Nigeria’s agricultural powerhouse by supporting young farmers with improved inputs and mechanisation.

Governor Alia, who apologised for the delay in flagging off the season, explained that the state had finalised arrangements to pay over ₦5 billion owed to genuine fertilizer suppliers from the previous season. According to him, the delay in payment was caused by fraudulent practices of some vendors in 2024.

“We want to make hundreds of millionaires from farming. Young farmers should take advantage of this support. Farming is where our money is, and it is where Benue’s pride lies,” the Governor said.

He disclosed that the state had adopted a new agricultural calendar, which will see wet season farm inputs distributed between April and June, while dry season inputs will be distributed between November and January, to guarantee timely access for farmers.

As part of the 2025 programme, the state government is providing 9,000 metric tonnes, representing 600 truckloads of fertilizers, including NPK, Urea, and SSP, valued at ₦16.8 billion, with a 50 percent subsidy. Farmers will therefore access fertilizer at ₦22,500 per bag while the government covers the remaining cost.

Governor Alia also revealed that from December, no oranges will be exported out of Benue in raw form as the new fruit processing factory will mop up oranges and add value to local produce. He called on Benue youths to embrace farming to maintain the state’s leading position in soyabean production nationwide.

“This is your state. This is your Benue. Let us think differently, be patriotic, and make agriculture the pride of our land. Together, we will make Benue the agricultural powerhouse it is destined to be,” he stated.

The Governor announced that 300 bags of fertilizer would be given to widows present at the event, while farmer cooperatives were urged to ensure transparent distribution to members.

Delivering the Governor’s formal address, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Benjamin Ashaver, highlighted reforms aimed at eliminating corruption in farm input distribution.

“Henceforth, all fertilizer sales will be processed cashlessly through POS terminals at accredited centres, with payments made directly to suppliers’ accounts. These reforms will ensure only genuine farmers benefit from government subsidies. We are also building a credible farmers’ register and deploying a hybrid digital platform to enhance transparency, close extension service gaps, and provide real-time support to farmers,” Dr. Ashaver said.

He commended farmers for their resilience and urged them to adopt improved seeds and modern farming techniques rather than relying on local grains for planting.

On his part, the CEO of Star Fertilizer, Dr. Julius Atorough, assured stakeholders that adulterated fertilizer would no longer circulate in the state. He disclosed that the company had invested massively to revive the moribund Benue Fertilizer Plant and pledged to produce crop-specific fertilizers for Benue soil.

“From today, Benue farmers can be sure of getting quality fertilizers. We will establish outlets across the state to end the circulation of fake products. Hold us accountable for our promise,” Atorough said.

The Benue State House of Assembly Committee Chairman on Agriculture, Hon. Emmanuel Shimawua, described the distribution exercise as a vital support initiative for farmers and assured the Commissioner of Agriculture of the Assembly’s full backing.

Also speaking, the Ter Lobi, HRH Moses Anagende, commended the government’s efforts to address agricultural challenges and security concerns, noting that farmers in many areas are already feeling safer to return to their farms.

FCSC introduces CBT for 2025 promotion exams

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FCSC introduces CBT for 2025 promotion exams

The Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) has unveiled its first-ever strategic plan 2026-2030, marking a major milestone since its establishment 75 years ago. The announcement was made during the Commission’s strategic plan stakeholder validation workshop held at Abuja Continental Hotel, Abuja.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Tunji Olaopa, said the new plan was developed to reposition the FCSC and drive transformation in line with 21st-century governance and management principles. He explained that the strategic plan is a response to the charge given by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the inauguration of the reconstituted 10th Commission on December 13, 2023.

Olaopa disclosed that the Commission had earlier implemented a repositioning plan after a rapid assessment of its operations, but identified gaps that needed to be addressed. “It therefore became obvious to us one and a half years into the implementation of the FCSC repositioning plan, that the plan, as roadmap and an institutional response to the President’s charge to us, had significant gaps. Gaps, in terms of details of evidence-based concrete strategies, change management programmes and a carefully designed projects for a more reassuring transformation journey,” he said.

He announced that beginning with the 2025 promotion exercise, the FCSC will introduce a Computer Based Test (CBT) for all promotion examinations. According to him, the CBT method will ensure transparency, accountability, and convenience compared to the previous paper-based exams which required civil servants to travel to Abuja. He added that merit-based processes would guide promotions and that federal character principles will be implemented with fair representation of women and persons with disabilities.

Olaopa also revealed that the Commission is working with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) to institutionalise performance-based systems that link promotions and career progression to key performance indicators, citizen feedback, and revised annual appraisal reports. He said the goal is to transform the Commission into a critical HR management institution that will support the transformation of the federal public service and contribute to achieving a one trillion dollar economy by 2030 under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

In her goodwill message, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, represented by Dr. Deborah Oyindamola Ninma Odoh, praised the FCSC for involving stakeholders in the planning process, describing the civil service as the “engine room for policy formulation and implementation in Nigeria.”

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ndiomu Ebiogeh Phillip, urged stakeholders to make the plan not only aspirational but also practical and impactful. Director General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, Dr. Dasuki Ibrahim Arabi, advised the leadership to ensure every staff member understands the plan and takes ownership of its implementation.

The validation workshop featured group sessions led by consultants Dr. Otive Igbuzor and Dr. Bert Odiaka, with Prof. Dele Olowu joining virtually from Amsterdam to present an overview. Participants included current and retired permanent secretaries, civil society organisations, law enforcement agencies, Ministry of Finance and Budget officials, and representatives of the organised private sector.

Enugu DBN entrepreneurship training program (DETP) 5m prize

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Enugu DBN entrepreneurship training program (DETP) 5m prize

September 17, 2025 – Application forms are now open for the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) Entrepreneurship Training Program (DETP) – Enugu Edition, organised in partnership with the Enugu SME Center and the Office of Digital Economy.

This initiative is designed to give Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (MSMEs) access to expert training, mentorship, and a chance to pitch for grants worth up to N5 million for their businesses.

According to the organisers, “The DETP is not just another training. It’s a gateway to real growth. Whether you’re a fashion entrepreneur in Ogbete, a food processor in Nsukka, or a tech founder in Independence Layout, this program is built for you.”

Participants will gain access to 11 world-class business courses covering Accounting, Credit Management, Marketing, and Sustainability, available through a self-paced online portal. Successful applicants will also receive official DBN certificates, recognised across the business and finance sector to boost investor confidence.

The program features a three-day in-person workshop scheduled for November 10–14, 2025, where top entrepreneurs, business coaches, and financial institutions will engage participants in an exclusive learning and networking event. The highlight will be the pitch competition, where selected finalists will compete for a share of the DBN N100 million grant pool, with up to N5 million available per business.

Eligibility Criteria
i. CAC-registered business with 2+ years of operation
ii. Based in Enugu or Abia State
iii. Willing to complete the full online training curriculum

Organisers explained that this program is for those who want to structure their business for sustainable growth, become funding-ready, and pitch to real funders. “You believe in investing in your own development, and this program provides the platform,” the statement added.

The online training must be completed by October 31, 2025. Interested entrepreneurs are encouraged to apply early, as there are limited slots available.

Applications can be submitted through the official Enugu State DETP portal at www.enugusme.en.gov.ng/detp.

Kogi AGILE disburses N40,000 grants to 13,359 schoolgirls with ATM cards

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Kogi AGILE disburses N40,000 grants to 13,359 schoolgirls with ATM cards

Kogi State has continued the distribution of N40,000 Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) grants to schoolgirls under the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project, following the earlier flag-off of the scheme.

The initiative is designed to boost school enrollment, retention, and transition for adolescent girls, thereby improving their contribution to the state’s social and economic development.

At the latest disbursement exercise held on Tuesday at GYB Model Science Secondary School (GYBMSSS), Lokoja, the AGILE team issued preloaded ATM cards to parents and guardians of the beneficiaries.

Speaking at the event, the Kogi State Project Coordinator, Mr. Ahmed Oricha, praised Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for fulfilling his promise to ensure that ATM cards are distributed across the state. He explained that the disbursement was not a one-time exercise but part of the governor’s pledge to sustain the AGILE-CCT initiative as a continuous intervention.

He stated that the project would provide N40,000 cash grants each to 13,359 adolescent girls in transition classes across the state, targeting the removal of financial and socio-cultural barriers that keep girls out of school. Oricha urged schoolgirls to maintain regular school attendance and called on parents to ensure the funds are used strictly for educational purposes.

The Lead Consultant, Mr. Richard Alabi, clarified that the account linked to each ATM card is a dedicated wallet for AGILE fund disbursement. He warned that the funds must not be diverted for other uses and stressed that beneficiaries must sustain at least 70 percent school attendance to continue benefiting from the scheme. He also cautioned parents not to pay any processing fees, as the government has fully covered all costs.

Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) Lead, Mr. Kunle Musa, said the disbursement is being carried out in batches until all 13,359 beneficiaries receive their grants.

UBA Branch Manager, Ms. Jennifer Efe, commended the state government’s commitment to prioritizing education, noting that Kogi State is among the first to begin actual implementation of the AGILE-CCT program. She advised parents to use the funds wisely and to consider opening separate savings accounts for future educational planning.

Principal of GYBMSSS, Chief Godwin Ajofe Yakubu, appreciated the government’s effort to ensure girls are not left behind in education.

Parents and beneficiaries also expressed their gratitude. Mrs. Mariam Paul, a parent, said: “I have received the N40,000 on behalf of my daughter through the ATM card that was given to us. We are grateful to the government, AGILE, and all stakeholders for this support.”

FG disburses N330bn cash transfers to 15m vulnerable households

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FG disburses N330bn cash transfers to 15m vulnerable households

The Federal Government has announced the disbursement of ₦330 billion in cash transfers to poor and vulnerable Nigerians through the National Social Safety-Net Coordinating Office (NASSCO).

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, made this known on Monday in Abuja, explaining that the intervention is part of President Bola Tinubu’s strategy to cushion the impact of subsidy removal and exchange rate reforms on low-income citizens.

According to Edun, about 19.7 million poor and vulnerable households, representing over 70 million individuals, are captured in the National Social Register. He confirmed that the cash transfers are being funded from an $800 million World Bank facility, targeting 15 million households nationwide.

“So far, 8.5 million households have received at least one tranche of ₦25,000. Some have received two or three payments. The remaining 7 million households will be paid before the end of the year,” Edun said.

He stated that the programme is anchored on a “robust and sustainable system,” with all beneficiaries verified through their National Identity Numbers (NIN). Payments are made digitally through bank accounts or mobile wallets to improve efficiency and transparency.

Edun further disclosed that the Federal Government will make the initiative part of the annual national budget to ensure it remains sustainable. “We now have the basis for a modern social protection system that can provide targeted assistance to the poorest and most vulnerable on a long-term basis,” he added.

National Coordinator of NASSCO, Funmi Olotu, said the staggered payments were a result of the government’s insistence on linking cash transfers to NIN verification. “No more traditional cash payments. All transfers are direct debit to bank accounts. That is why some households have received one, two, or three tranches already,” she said.

Olotu added that the National Social Register was developed in collaboration with the World Bank, using over 40 socioeconomic variables and free from political interference. While the previous administration planned to pay ₦5,000 monthly for six months, the current government redesigned the scheme to pay ₦25,000 monthly for three months.

FG issues notice on tax withholding for short-term securities interest

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FG issues notice on tax withholding for short-term securities interest

Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has issued a new notice directing the withholding of tax from interest on investment in short-term securities. The notice is for banks, discount houses, stockbrokers, corporate bond issuers, Primary Dealer Market Makers (PDMMs), other financial institutions, government agencies, tax practitioners, and the general public.

According to the agency, this directive is in line with Sections 78(1) and 81(1) of the Companies Income Tax Act (CITA), as amended, and the Deduction of Tax at Source (Withholding) Regulations, 2024. FIRS stated that “tax shall be deducted from interests payable to any person, including non-corporate entities, on the date of payment.”

The notice explained that tax will be deducted from all interest payments on investments in short-term securities at the applicable rate on the date of payment. FIRS further noted that the deducted tax must be remitted to the relevant tax authority no later than the 21st day of the month following the month in which the payment was made.

It added that “the person from whose payment the tax was deducted is entitled to a tax credit equal to the amount withheld and remitted except where the tax deducted is the final tax.”

The service clarified that interest on bonds issued by the Federal Government remains exempt from tax deduction. Short-term securities covered include government bonds, treasury bills, promissory notes, corporate bonds, financial papers, and bills of exchange.

FIRS urged all relevant interest-payers to comply fully with the circular to avoid penalties and interest as stated in existing tax laws.

Lagos State unveils historic N214.8bn Bond to woo investors

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Lagos State unveils historic N214.8bn Bond to woo investors

Lagos State has unveiled the largest bond ever issued by any sub-national government in Africa, valued at N214.8 billion. The bond, announced during the Investor Forum on the Series III Green Bond and Series IV Bond Issuance under the One Trillion Debt and Hybrid Instrument Issuance Programme, was held on Friday at Eko Hotel and Suites.

The issuance is split into two categories: a N200 billion conventional bond and a N14.815 billion green bond, which is the first environmental sustainability bond to be issued by any sub-national government in Nigeria.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, addressing investors at the event, called for continued private sector support to develop key infrastructure needed to meet the demands of Lagos’ growing population and economy.

He assured investors of Lagos State’s financial credibility and commitment to development, noting that the state has the track record and capacity to deliver on major projects.

“There are enormous opportunities in Lagos for sustainable growth. With more funding, we can do a lot more. Inflation and rising costs will always be a factor, but your investment today secures tomorrow’s progress,” the governor said.

He emphasised that Lagos has maintained a tradition of continuity, with successive administrations building on past achievements, and reiterated the security of investors’ funds.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Abayomi Oluyomi, highlighted the state’s fiscal discipline and explained that the N200 billion conventional bond will fund 24 infrastructure projects across nine ministries, departments, and agencies, covering housing, health, environment, agriculture, transportation, innovation, science, and technology.

He also stated that proceeds from the N14.815 billion green bond will be used for renewable energy, climate change adaptation, and sustainable water and wastewater management.

Mr. Bolaji Balogun, CEO of Chapel Hill Denham Advisory Services Limited, praised Lagos for its leadership, saying, “Lagos is first among others, not only in this country, but on this continent, that is why we feel confident pushing the envelope and asking the investing markets to work with us to raise 200 billion naira of capital.”

Balogun revealed that Lagos has issued more than $3.1 billion in bonds over the last 17 years without defaulting, which should give investors confidence. He added that the bonds will be launched next week and open for about five days, with the proceeds expected to be delivered to the state within 15 to 20 days.

He further noted that Lagos maintains a debt-service-to-revenue ratio of 19.2 per cent, which has earned it a local credit rating of A1+ and a reaffirmed AAA rating from Fitch Ratings, attributing this to the Debt Management Office’s performance.

Step-by-step guide: how to check 2025 NECO SSCE result

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Step-by-step guide: how to check 2025 NECO SSCE result

September 17, 2025 – The National Examinations Council (NECO) has released the 2025 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE Internal) results online.

As such, candidates can now check their performance online. According to the council, “candidates are advised to follow the instructions carefully on the NECO result portal to avoid errors.”

The official portal for checking results is results.neco.gov.ng where candidates must use their examination details.

The step-by-step guide for checking 2025 NECO SSCE results:
1. Visit the official NECO result checking portal at results.neco.gov.ng
2. Select the examination year (e.g., 2025) and the exam type (SSCE Internal or External).
3. Enter your NECO Examination Number.
4. Enter your NECO Result Checking Token number, which must be purchased beforehand on the portal.
5. Click the “Check Result” button to view your results.
6. Download and print your result for safekeeping.

Make sure to purchase tokens only through NECO’s official portal or authorised vendors.

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