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NYSC resumes N44,000 arrears payment after two-month break

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NYSC resumes N44,000 arrears payment after two-month break

September 3, 2025 – The National Youth Service Corps on Wednesday resumed the payment of arrears, marking the first disbursement since June 3 after a two-month break.

This N44,000 arrears payment is connected to the new N77,000 monthly allowance recently approved by the Federal Government.

On April 5, the Director-General of NYSC, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, assured corps members that those who recently completed their service year would also receive the new allowance.

Speaking at the Batch A 2025 Pre-Mobilisation Workshop in Abuja, Nafiu explained, “Once funds are released to us to offset the arrears, we will pay them. Even our corps members who passed out recently will benefit. We have their bank details.”

He also emphasised the Federal Government’s commitment, saying, “Nigerians should not fret about that because the government is both responsible and responsive to their needs.”

The latest disbursement covers arrears from July 2024 to March 2025. This development follows months of frustration from corps members over delays in the implementation of the new allowance.

The N77,000 monthly allowance had earlier been approved by the Federal Government as part of efforts to reduce economic hardship faced by Nigerian youth.

A previously serving corps member confirmed the development, saying, “After waiting for two months, I didn’t expect to see another payment alert. But honestly, it’s not just about the money; it’s about feeling like our efforts actually count.”

Others have taken to social media platforms, including Facebook, to confirm they have received alerts. Some banks, including Access Bank, have already started disbursing the arrears.

The arrears SMS carry ‘Feb 2025’, which indicates February payments.

Attached below is screenshot proof:

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ITFA trains 500 NGOs, MSMEs on sustainable trade

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ITFA trains 500 NGOs, MSMEs on sustainable trade

The International Trade Facilitators Association (ITFA) has trained more than 500 non-governmental organisations and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) on sustainable trade transformation in Nigeria.

The training was carried out under ITFA’s flagship initiative, “Support to Potential and Established Nature-Positive Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in Nigeria (SPENM).”

The programme was funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with support from the Global Environment Facility’s Small Grants Programme (GEF-SGP).

Mr Collins Ezeiruaku, Trade Ambassador at ITFA, described the initiative as a strategic intersection of commerce and conservation.

“We are empowering organisations to operate ethically, source responsibly and build resilience beyond catalytic funding,” he said.

He explained that more than 470 institutions including civil society groups and community-based organisations were targeted, with many now commercialising nature-positive projects.

“The SPENM project is more than a capacity-building exercise, it is a blueprint for post-grant sustainability, ethical sourcing and environmental stewardship. By equipping grassroots organisations with tools for traceability, financial management and market access, ITFA is positioning local enterprises to thrive beyond donor dependency and compete in global value-chains,” he added.

Ezeiruaku stressed that the resources provided through GEF-SGP are not just instructional, but transformational.

According to him, they are blueprints for sustainable impact in Nigeria’s evolving trade landscape and for building capacity in global competitiveness.

Mrs Okiemute Olori, a coach and consultant on the SPENM project, emphasised the importance of future-proofing local enterprises.

“We are helping MSMEs think globally to get certified, build credibility and compete effectively in international markets,” she said.

Dr Abel Owotemu, Technical Adviser to ITFA, led a session on integrating sustainability into business strategy using the Business/Mission Model Canvas.

He explained that the approach focused on the triple bottom line of “People, Planet and Profits.”

Owotemu said the aim was to guide MSMEs away from profit-only or NGO-only models, towards impact-driven strategies that make a real difference in society.

Mrs Ibironke Olubamise, National Coordinator of the UNDP GEF-SGP, described SPENM as a catalyst for long-term transformation.

She said GEF is more than a funding mechanism, but an investment in local capacity, institutional integration and revenue-generating models.

“We are laying the groundwork for environmental and economic resilience that endures beyond the life of any single project. This initiative signals a new era for Nigeria’s MSME ecosystem, one where sustainability is not a side note, but a strategic imperative,” she explained.

“For global agencies seeking scalable models of inclusive green growth, SPENM offers a compelling case study on how trade, training and transformation can converge to build a better future,” she said.

Plateau Govt partners Agency on poultry program to empower youths

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Plateau Govt partners Agency on poultry program to empower youths

Christian Aid Nigeria has partnered with the Plateau State Government to launch a sustainable poultry-led program focused on empowering young people and boosting economic growth. The initiative will create job opportunities for youth aged 18 to 35, improve nutrition, and promote climate-smart agriculture.

At a meeting in the JD Gomwalk Secretariat, Jos, the Commissioner of Budget and Economic Planning, Adams Bulus Lekshak, welcomed the delegation from Christian Aid. He said, “This project aligns with the government’s priorities for improving youth livelihoods and enhancing dietary nutrition in the state.” He also appointed the Director of International Cooperation and the Director of Planning as liaison officers to support smooth collaboration.

The Christian Aid delegation was led by Nathaniel Joseph, Senior Specialist in Livestock Development. He explained that the initiative followed a request by the Plateau State Governor to Christian Aid’s country director. Joseph also noted that the program is part of a broader national plan covering seven states, including Plateau, Adamawa, Kano, FCT Abuja, Ogun, Enugu, and Delta.

The program is built on six components, including training in feed production, poultry management, and climate-smart farming. A unique “Climate and Smart Sandbox” will test innovative methods to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture.

Christian Aid confirmed that a consortium of partners, including international research institutes, will deliver specialized training to strengthen the program.

The Commissioner requested a detailed work plan from Christian Aid to integrate into the ministry’s annual calendar. A stakeholder meeting is also planned to provide a full project breakdown and select participants.

NDE phase 2 successful applicants receive SMS for training/flag-off

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NDE phase 2 successful applicants receive SMS for training/flag-off

September 3, 2025 – National Directorate of Employment (NDE) phase 2 of the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative (RHEI) has moved to a new stage as successful applicants who earlier received email notifications are now getting SMS invitations for commencement of training.

The National Directorate of Employment confirmed that beneficiaries must report at designated venues as directed by their state offices through the SMS.

One of the SMS messages sent to selected candidates reads, “You had been approved for training @ NDE program, report at Ataoja School Hall, Osogbo tomorrow by 9:00am or call :0806**14764.” This instruction applies to Osogbo applicants and emphasizes punctual attendance for the programme.

In some other states, the approach is slightly different as candidates are being directed to attend the official flag off ceremony before training begins.

A sample SMS sent to a beneficiary reads, “You are invited to d flag off ceremony of the 2nd phase renewed hope employment initiative at d office premises of NDE, No 2 Nathaniel Ajigi rd Gadumo, tomorrow 4/9/2025. by 9am NDE Mgt.”

As an example, NDE Katsina already issued a public invitation mandating beneficiaries who received emails to attend the flag off of the Second Phase Renewed Hope Employment Initiative. Candidates are reminded that each state branch has different venues.

FG, AGRA launch program to cut N3.5trn post-harvest losses

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FG, AGRA launch program to cut N3.5trn post-harvest losses

September 3, 2025 – Earlier today, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), Mohammed Ibrahim, and other stakeholders participated in the Nigeria Deal Room, one of the key programmes at the ongoing Africa Food Systems Forum in Senegal.

The discussions centred on the Nigeria Postharvest Systems Transformation Program (NiPHaST), a flagship initiative under Nigeria’s Legacy Programme. NiPHaST is designed to tackle the serious issue of post-harvest losses, which are estimated to cost the nation about N3.5 trillion annually.

Speaking at the session, Sen. Abubakar Kyari stressed the importance of the initiative. “We cannot continue to allow such massive losses in our agricultural value chain. This programme will ensure more resilient systems that benefit our farmers and the economy,” he said.

NiPHaST is built on the framework of Nigeria’s National Agricultural Technology and Innovation Policy (NATIP). It takes a multi-stakeholder approach, aiming to create a more efficient and sustainable food system.

The programme is a partnership between the Government of Nigeria and AGRA. Its focus areas include improving storage infrastructure, adopting advanced agricultural technologies, and enhancing transport services to reduce waste and strengthen food security.

Nigeria Customs generates N3.7trn in H1 2025

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Nigeria Customs generates N3.7trn in H1 2025

The Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modernising trade systems and boosting revenue as the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) continues to exceed expectations.

At the 62nd meeting of the NCS Board in Abuja, the Minister disclosed that Customs generated ₦3.7 trillion in the first half of 2025, a figure that is 12.5 percent above budget and 25 percent higher than the same period last year. He described the achievement as commendable but added that more reforms are required to meet the administration’s ambitious revenue targets.

According to him, “The performance is commendable, but it is important to deepen reforms so that we can achieve the ambitious revenue goals of the administration.”

A major part of the reform agenda is the National Single Window Initiative, a digital trade platform expected to be fully rolled out in 2026. The platform is designed to simplify import and export processes, reduce costs, cut delays, and increase competitiveness, providing a stronger business environment for the private sector.

“The National Single Window will give Customs the speed and capacity to process trade more effectively, boosting revenue and positioning Nigeria as a more attractive hub for investment,” the Minister said.

The NCS Board also confirmed governance improvements within the Service, including senior appointments and promotions, aimed at upholding professional standards and strengthening institutional capacity.

Mr. Edun stated that these steps reflect President Bola Tinubu’s broader economic strategy, which is focused on stabilising inflation and exchange rates while building a transparent, technology-driven trade ecosystem that encourages private investment and drives long-term economic growth.

Tinubu hails N20.59trn non-oil revenue, FAAC hits N2trn

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Tinubu hails N20.59trn non-oil revenue, FAAC hits N2trn

The Presidency has welcomed Nigeria’s latest revenue figures for January to August 2025, describing them as proof of unprecedented growth in non-oil collections. Officials said the results were driven by reforms aimed at strengthening fiscal performance, improving compliance, and digitising tax administration.

President Bola Tinubu, while addressing a delegation of the Buhari Organisation led by Senator Tanko Al-Makura, pointed to the positive trajectory in non-oil revenue mobilisation. Some sections of the media had earlier reported his remarks out of context.

From January to August 2025, total collections rose to N20.59 trillion, a 40.5 percent increase from N14.6 trillion in 2024. The President said this performance keeps the government on course to meet its annual non-oil revenue target. He also noted that the federal government has not borrowed from local banks this year, a sign of stronger fiscal stability.

Tinubu explained that while oil-related revenues remain under pressure due to falling crude prices, non-oil sources have grown strongly. He stressed that under his inclusive growth agenda, resources are being channelled closer to the people.

The President highlighted record Federation Accounts Allocation Committee disbursements. For the first time in Nigeria’s history, monthly allocations to states and local governments surpassed N2 trillion in July 2025. He said this gives subnational governments more space to fund food security, infrastructure, and social services.

Despite the progress, Tinubu admitted the revenue figures still fall short of his administration’s ambitions for education, healthcare, and infrastructure spending. He said reforms would continue to address these gaps.

Bayo Onanuga, spokesperson to the President, described the development as historic. “Nigeria’s fiscal foundations are being reshaped. For the first time in decades, oil is no longer the dominant driver of government revenue. The combination of reforms, compliance, and digitisation powers a more resilient economy. The task ahead is to ensure that these gains are felt in the lives of our citizens and in better schools, hospitals, roads, and jobs,” he said.

Data shows non-oil revenue is now the main engine of fiscal growth. Of the N20.59 trillion collected, N15.69 trillion came from non-oil sources, accounting for three out of every four naira. Officials said the uplift is largely reform-driven, supported by digitised tax filings, Customs automation, stronger enforcement, and expanded compliance.

Customs also exceeded expectations. In the first half of 2025, it generated N3.68 trillion, N390 billion above target, already reaching 56 percent of the full-year goal. Authorities said this reflects systemic changes rather than one-off windfalls.

The Presidency added that revenues are ahead of pro-rata expectations and final validation will come from the Budget Office at year-end. It stressed that the priority now is ensuring revenue growth brings real relief to citizens, with more food security, jobs for young people, and investments in schools, hospitals, and roads.

EFCC arrests Gavice Logistics CEO over N2bn investment fraud

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EFCC arrests Gavice Logistics CEO over N2bn investment fraud

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested Ahamba Tochukwu, Chief Executive Officer of Gavice Logistics Limited, over an alleged fraud running into N2,000,000,000. The anti-graft agency disclosed that Tochukwu lured unsuspecting Nigerians into bogus logistics investment schemes.

According to investigators, the suspect rolled out investment plans covering haulage, courier, and e-commerce services, while promising investors a mouthwatering fifty percent Return on Investment, ROI. “Tochukwu, through Gavice Logistics Limited, raked in more than N2 billion from over 400 investors who can no longer access their capital and ROI since November 2024,” EFCC sources said.

The agency explained that the suspect suddenly disappeared after collecting the funds, leaving hundreds of victims stranded. The EFCC confirmed that its operatives, acting on intelligence, eventually tracked down and arrested Tochukwu, who is currently being grilled over what has been described as another Ponzi scheme disguised as a logistics investment.

“With his arrest, members of the public are enjoined to desist from patronising unverified pyramid schemes and fraudulent investment promoters to avoid being defrauded,” the EFCC stated, warning that quick money offers in the name of investment often end in massive losses for investors.

Check: Kaduna 2025 BECE Pen-and-Paper Results Online

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Check: Kaduna 2025 BECE Pen-and-Paper Results Online

The Kaduna State Schools Quality Assurance Authority (KSSQAA) has officially released the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) Pen-and-Paper mode results. According to the Authority, candidates can now check their performance without delay.

In the statement signed by Mrs. Christiana Nuhu Buzun, Acting Director of the Education Resource Department, on behalf of the Director-General of KSSQAA, it was confirmed that the results are live on the official portal. “The results of the 2025 BECE Pen-and-Paper mode are now available and can be accessed immediately,” the release stated.

Candidates are directed to check results online through https://results.kssqaa.org/, while schools have been provided the option to download bulk results using their official login details.

The Authority also provided a clear guide for school representatives on how to access the Photo Album:
i. Visit kssqaa.org.
ii. Navigate to Examinations tab → Select BECE (Paper & P) and school type (Private/Public).
iii. Log in with official credentials (Login ID and Password to access the system)
iv. From the sidebar, click “Gazette Request”.
v. Select examination year and type.
vi. Click “Request” to generate the Photo Album.

KSSQAA warned that results must only be accessed via the official portal to avoid fraudulent websites. The statement also directed that all complaints regarding result access should be routed through respective schools. It added that any request for bio-data corrections or related services will only be handled through schools.

Akwa Ibom Govt distributes food palliatives to vulnerable residents

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Akwa Ibom Govt distributes food palliatives to vulnerable residents

September 3, 2025 – Akwa Ibom State Government today continued the third phase of its Free Food Distribution Exercise under the Food Security Programme, reaching out to the poorest and most vulnerable residents of Ewang, Mbo Local Government Area, with truck-loads of palliatives.

Thousands of residents, including people with disabilities, gathered at the Local Government Council Headquarters as early as 8am to await the arrival of the Food Distribution Team. The team, led by the Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Princess Emem Ibanga, distributed bags of staple food items across all 11 Wards of the Local Government Area.

While addressing the beneficiaries, Princess Ibanga explained that the programme was designed to offer short-term relief. She stated, “This food distribution is an interventionist programme billed for the short-term, so I urge everyone to return to the farms for sustained food security.” Her message reinforced the importance of agriculture in achieving long-term food stability in the state.

In his remarks, the Council Chairman of Mbo LGA, Hon. Sunday Etim, accompanied by his Vice Chairman and Secretary, expressed appreciation to Governor Umo Eno for delivering on his promise to support vulnerable residents. He said, “We thank the Governor for alleviating the immediate food worries of our people. Mbo LGA assures His Excellency of massive support in his future endeavors.”

On ground to monitor the exercise was the Special Adviser to the Governor on Cooperatives and Rural Development, Rt. Hon. Alice Ekpenyong, an indigene of the area and two-time member of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly. She joined other officials to ensure a smooth distribution process.

Also present were the General Manager of the Akwa Ibom State Bulk Purchase Agency, Hon. Unyime Etim, alongside Councillors and Ward Personal Assistants to the Governor, who have been instrumental in moving food vouchers from the Agency to the vulnerable across their communities.

Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the state government, describing the initiative as timely and uplifting. One resident noted that the palliatives were “a thoughtful and soul-lifting gesture” that brought relief to struggling families.

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