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Benue Govt launches One Student, One Computer, One Digital Skill initiative

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Benue Govt launches One Student, One Computer, One Digital Skill initiative

The Benue State Government on Wednesday officially unveiled the innovative “One Student, One Computer, One Digital Skill Plus” initiative, a comprehensive programme designed to ensure every student in the state gains access to essential digital devices and skills.

The initiative aims to enhance academic excellence through increased access to e-learning platforms and online resources, positioning Benue as a hub of digital innovation.

His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Executive Governor of Benue State, performed the unveiling ceremony during the graduation of the inaugural Benue Summer Tech Training and the induction of the Digital Benue Ambassadors at Nnam Hotel in Makurdi.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Dr. Sam Ode, mini, the Governor commended the Benue Digital Infrastructure Company (BDIC) for spearheading the state’s digital transformation and praised BDIC’s efforts in deploying critical infrastructure, rolling out innovative platforms, and executing visionary projects such as the Summer Tech Training programme.

“The Digital Benue vision is not just an idea, but a living reality,” the Governor emphasised. “Today, we celebrate our children who have gained foundational skills in digital literacy, software development, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. They are the trailblazers of a future powered by knowledge, innovation, and opportunity,” he added.

He highlighted the multifaceted benefits of the initiative, including the development of employable skills in ICT fields such as programming, design, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship, stressing that the programme is poised to foster economic diversification through e-commerce, freelancing, and digital startups.

Governor Alia further said the initiative aims to support sectors like agriculture, health, education, and commerce, thereby enabling Benue youth to become globally competitive, attract investments, and create local jobs.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to expand the Summer Tech Training programme across all 23 Local Government Areas, ensuring that every child in Benue has access to the necessary tools and opportunities to thrive in the 21st-century digital economy.

He also recapped significant strides in digital infrastructure development, including the deployment of fiber optic connectivity across 18 ministries, departments, and agencies, noting, “the state has introduced e-governance platforms and digitised workflows across critical sectors, all part of a strategic roadmap to position Benue as a model of digital transformation in Nigeria.”

In a separate address, Dr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), represented by Mr. Ajayi Babajide Ayodimeji, the Zonal Office Coordinator, commended Benue for its forward-thinking approach, and praised the state’s efforts to equip children with skills in software development, cybersecurity, and other digital disciplines, emphasising that such capabilities can generate wealth and employment.

Dada Olusegun, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, represented by Yansa Esetome Garba, also lauded the state government’s commitment to nurturing a new generation of digital innovators.

The event concluded with a presentation of certificates and customised tablets equipped with internet services to the graduates of the Summer Tech Training programme by Governor Hyacinth Alia, symbolising the government’s dedication to fostering digital literacy.

This landmark initiative marks a significant step toward transforming Benue into a digital economy hub, empowering its youth with the tools and skills needed to compete and innovate on a global scale.

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NASENI launches N250m InnovateNaija challenge at GITEX Nigeria

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NASENI launches N250m InnovateNaija challenge at GITEX Nigeria

Nigeria’s National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has launched a ₦250 million innovation challenge to support young inventors with funding, mentorship and access to technology hubs.

The InnovateNaija Challenge will be unveiled on Thursday, September 4, at the GITEX Nigeria technology fair in Lagos. Organisers describe it as Nigeria’s largest youth-focused innovation competition. It is supported by AfriLabs and the Presidency.

The programme is designed to identify breakthrough ideas in science, engineering and manufacturing. It will run for three months and feature two phases.

In the first stage, one innovator will be selected from each of Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, making a total of 37. Each will receive ₦2.5 million in grants.

From this pool, the top 15 will move to the national finals at the NASENI Invention Fest in Abuja in February 2026. Finalists will present their projects to judges and stakeholders, with the overall winner receiving a ₦100 million grant.

NASENI officials said the challenge is part of a wider plan to strengthen Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem. It also coincides with the pre-launch of the NASENI Innovation Hub in Abuja. The hub will provide infrastructure, mentorship and research opportunities for young inventors.

Khalil Sulaiman Halilu, NASENI’s executive vice chairman, said the initiative shows a deliberate effort to “foster an environment where innovation can thrive” and turn youth-driven ideas into scalable solutions.

Nigeria has long sought to diversify its economy beyond oil by investing in technology, renewable energy, manufacturing and entrepreneurship. NASENI described the InnovateNaija Challenge as a pathway for youth empowerment and a boost to Nigeria’s global reputation for creativity.

AfriLabs executive director Anna Ekeledo added that the initiative would “spotlight Nigerian ingenuity” while connecting the country to Africa’s broader innovation network.

US commits $32.5m for food aid to 764,205 Nigerians

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US commits $32.5m for food aid to 764,205 Nigerians

The United States Government has committed $32.5 million to the United Nations World Food Programme to support food and nutrition assistance for people affected by conflict in Nigeria.

According to a statement released by the US Embassy in Abuja on Wednesday, the funding will allow WFP Nigeria to reach approximately 764,205 vulnerable individuals in the Northeast and Northwest regions. These areas have been heavily impacted by ongoing insecurity and displacement, leaving millions struggling to access food and basic needs.

The statement explained that the assistance package includes general food distributions as well as targeted nutritional support. Among the beneficiaries are 41,569 pregnant and breastfeeding women and girls, along with 43,235 children who will receive specialised nutrition support through electronic food vouchers.

“World Food Program Nigeria, with US Government’s contribution of $32.5m, will provide food assistance and nutrition support to internally displaced persons across conflict-affected areas. With the US Government’s donation, the World Food Programme Nigeria will provide food and nutrition assistance to 764,205 beneficiaries across Northeast and Northwest Nigeria. This includes complementary nutrition top-ups for 41,569 pregnant and breastfeeding women and girls and 43,235 children through electronic food vouchers,” the statement read.

The support comes at a time when hunger and malnutrition remain serious challenges in Nigeria, particularly in communities affected by conflict. Food insecurity has increased in recent years due to violence, displacement, and climate-related pressures.

Meanwhile, the United States Agency for International Development has reacted to recent reports about its agricultural work in Nigeria. In a statement issued by the US Mission in Nigeria, USAID dismissed what it described as misrepresentations of its agricultural initiatives.

The agency said its programmes are run transparently and in full alignment with Nigerian laws. It also noted that since 2019, its collaboration with Nigeria has supported more than five million farmers, boosted food production, and strengthened rural economies across the country.

Over 8,000 YEIDEP beneficiaries enrolled in first tranche registration

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Over 8,000 YEIDEP beneficiaries enrolled in first tranche registration

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, represented by his Chief of Staff, Muhammed Abdullahi, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to youth empowerment during the YEIDEP Implementation Stakeholders’ Retreat. The meeting brought together key actors to tackle unemployment, poverty, and insecurity through the Youth Economic Intervention and Deregulation Program (YEIDEP).

In his remarks, the Minister stressed the urgency of addressing economic hardship, violent extremism, crime, and antisocial behaviour among young Nigerians. He explained that the best solution lies in providing sustainable economic opportunities, especially in agriculture and its value chains, to reduce unemployment and disillusionment.

“YEIDEP is not just another government initiative; it is a national mission essential to Nigeria’s peace, stability, and prosperity,” Comrade Olawande said. He urged stakeholders to take ownership of the rollout by defining responsibilities, creating a roadmap, setting timelines, and ensuring accountability. He encouraged participants to collaborate and empower young Nigerians to embrace enterprise, resilience, and productivity.

Through his representative, Muhammed Abdullahi, the Minister also assured partners that the Ministry is committed to working closely with them so that YEIDEP delivers lasting benefits for youth and contributes meaningfully to national development.

Providing updates on financial arrangements, the Director of Finance and Accounts, Warrens Bekearadebo Augusta, confirmed that 9 out of 20 invited banks have joined the initiative. These banks have opened accounts, registered beneficiaries, and begun financial operations. She added that 3 to 4 more banks are likely to come on board once they meet requirements.

She revealed that registration for the first tranche of beneficiaries has been completed, with over 8,000 verified participants enrolled. To manage this effectively, banks are being grouped into clusters, with monitoring systems, accountability measures, and timelines already in place.

The YEIDEP Coordinator, Comrade Kennedy Iyere, described the programme as a “necessary revolution” for Nigeria’s survival and prosperity. Drawing from his experience across five continents and 77 nations, he said Nigeria’s struggles are not caused by a lack of resources but by weak political leadership in the past.

He assured stakeholders that YEIDEP is firmly committed to equipping young Nigerians with the skills, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive. According to him, the programme will drive enterprise, strengthen resilience, and contribute significantly to national progress and stability.

NDDC backs FG’s Care365 Health Hub

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NDDC backs FG’s Care365 Health Hub

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has reaffirmed its commitment to improving healthcare access in the Niger Delta. The Commission pledged support for the Care365 Health Hub’s innovation in the health sector.

The NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, announced this during the official launch of Care365 Health Hub’s new product. The initiative, designed to redefine healthcare delivery in Nigeria, was unveiled at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja.

The event was chaired by former President Olusegun Obasanjo. It was also attended by former President Goodluck Jonathan, the Chairman of Care365 Health Hub, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (Rtd), and Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, who officially unveiled the Care365 system.

During a panel discussion, Dr Ogbuku spoke about the Commission’s medical outreach programmes. He explained that these programmes had delivered life-saving services to underserved communities in the Niger Delta.

He said the introduction of Care365’s advanced equipment would significantly strengthen these efforts. According to him, it would help the Commission reach more people and deepen its impact across the region. Stressing the importance of wellness, he stated that “health is wealth, and wealth is health.”

The NDDC boss noted that the Commission was working with healthcare partners such as the World Health Organisation. He said programmes like the Care365 Health Hub would provide innovative healthcare solutions and promote community health outreach.

He explained that partnerships were designed to expand access to quality healthcare. They would also address specific health challenges in the Niger Delta and ensure sustainable medical services for vulnerable groups.

Ogbuku emphasised that the NDDC was an early adopter of the Care365 system. He said this showed the Commission’s proactive stance in ensuring that people in the Niger Delta benefit from modern healthcare delivery.

He also reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to expand collaboration with both local and international partners. He encouraged Nigerians to adopt healthier lifestyles, stressing that eating well and exercising regularly were key to complementing new healthcare technologies.

Ogbuku explained that the Commission had sustained its flagship free medical outreach programme. The initiative provides healthcare services to vulnerable populations in the Niger Delta.

He assured that the NDDC would continue with its health programmes. He said the Commission would strengthen partnerships and make sure patients had access to medical services even after outreach missions ended.

“We have our free medical outreach, which we carry out in the nine states of the Niger Delta. Initially, we carry out the programme once a year, but due to the high demand, we have decided to make it twice every year. The one for this year was flagged off by the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Bayelsa,” he said.

“For us in NDDC, we believe that health is wealth, and for the nation to be wealthy, the nation needs to be healthy. So every individual’s life is significant to us. We believe that the vulnerable people are the ones we need to reach out to. We came up with the digital health programme where we are registering the vulnerable people in our communities in partnership with the World Health Organisation. In the first phase, which we were supposed to register about one million persons, we have registered over 500 people who have been forwarded to the National Social Register to ensure that they have access to health insurance,” he added.

FG unveils 2025 digital lending regulations

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FG unveils 2025 digital lending regulations

September 3, 2025 – The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has officially announced the commencement of the Digital, Electronic, Online, or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations (DEON Consumer Lending Regulation), 2025, aimed at protecting consumers in Nigeria’s fast-growing digital lending market.

The new regulations, issued pursuant to Sections 17, 18, and 163 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (2018), address complaints about exploitative practices, data privacy violations, abusive loan recovery tactics, harassment, and anti-competitive behaviour by some digital lenders and their partners.

According to the FCCPC, the framework mandates transparency, fairness, responsible conduct, data privacy, and accessible redress mechanisms. The Commission explained that these measures are a major step in regulating the country’s digital credit sector.

Speaking during the announcement in Abuja, the Commission’s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Tunji Bello, said Nigerians had suffered long enough from unethical practices by unregulated lenders.

He stated, “For too long, Nigerians have endured harassment, data breaches, and unethical practices by unregulated digital lenders. These regulations draw a clear line that innovation is welcome, but not at the expense of rights and dignity of consumers, or the rule of law.”

He further added, “This Regulations provide the legal tools to hold violators accountable and promote responsible digital finance. No consumer should be harassed, defamed, or lured into unsustainable debt under the guise of digital lending.”

The Regulations, which took effect on July 21, 2025, set out clear requirements for all unsecured consumer lending carried out electronically, online, through mobile, or other non-traditional means. They cover registration, transparency in loan terms, ethical recovery practices, fair interest rates, and responsible lending.

Key provisions prohibit pre-authorised or automatic lending and compel digital lenders to provide clear and accessible loan terms. The framework also bans unethical marketing practices, requires joint registration of partnerships, and mandates that at least one service provider for airtime or data lending must be locally owned. Additionally, monopolistic or dominance-based agreements are prohibited unless approved by the FCCPC.

Under the regulations, all digital lenders must register with the Commission within 90 days of commencement. Approval will only be granted to those meeting consumer protection, transparency, and data compliance standards. The Commission warned that violators face heavy penalties, including fines of up to 100 million naira or 1% of their turnover, as well as possible disqualification of directors for a period of up to five years.

The FCCPC also called on all providers of digital lending services, including Mobile Money Operators (MMOs), Digital Money Lenders (DMLs), and service partners, to visit www.fccpc.gov.ng for application forms, guidelines, and compliance requirements.

Consumers were urged to report unlawful or unregistered lenders, unfair interest rates, or breaches of data privacy through the Commission’s complaint portal at lenderstaskforce@fccpc.gov.ng.

Apply: Osun and Ekiti MSME masterclass with Dipo (N200,000 grant)

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Apply: Osun and Ekiti MSME masterclass with Dipo (N200,000 grant)

Dr Dipo Awojide will be delivering the MSME Masterclass With Dipo in Osun and Ekiti on 9th and 11th September 2025 respectively. The program is designed to support young entrepreneurs and business owners who are interested in starting or scaling their small business. According to him, the aim is to “promote entrepreneurship and help create more jobs” across both states.

The masterclass is open to participants in Osun State and Ekiti State who are ready to build a strong business idea or expand their existing venture. Attendees will also stand a chance of winning a grant of N200,000 for their small business.

The session will focus on 10 key areas every entrepreneur should understand:
i. Identifying and Clarifying Your Business Idea
ii. Customer Analysis (Identification, Segmentation and Positioning)
iii. Competitor Analysis (Direct and Indirect Competitors)
iv. Industry and Market Analysis
v. Resources and Capabilities (SWOT and Unique Selling Proposition)
vi. Marketing, Advertising and Branding Strategy: Using Social Media
vii. Gaining and Sustaining a Competitive Advantage
viii. Why Products and Services Fail; Avoiding Failure
ix. Creating a Business Plan or Pitch Deck
x. Vital Skills and Lessons needed to Thrive

To apply, interested participants who want a chance to win the N200,000 grant for their business are required to complete this form – https://forms.gle/FnHoqjsTKp3SVroQ7. Registration for the sessions is ongoing, and those yet to register can sign up via http://tinyurl.com/ykz5rj3x as soon as possible.

Bwala backtracks: says Lagos is Yoruba land, not “No Man’s Land”

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Bwala backtracks: says Lagos is Yoruba land, not “No Man’s Land”

Bwala Daniel, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy Communication, has clarified his statement on Lagos after his earlier interview sparked reactions.

Recall that Bwala called Lagos a “No-Man’s Land”.

In a message today, September 3, 2025, Bwala stressed that his words had been misinterpreted. He said, “Don’t misinterpret what I said in my interview of this morning. Culturally, historically, and constitutionally, Lagos belongs to the Yoruba people, and that has never been in contention. The unique identity of Lagos as a Yoruba homeland is settled and beyond dispute.”

He explained that his comments were meant to highlight the special role Lagos plays in Nigeria’s economy and in West Africa.

According to him, “What I emphasized was the special place Lagos occupies in Nigeria and indeed West Africa — a city that, much like New York, Paris, or London, serves as the commercial nerve center of our economy. Lagos provides every Nigerian, regardless of origin, a level playing field to thrive, and in this sense, it mirrors the diversity of our nation while remaining firmly rooted in Yoruba heritage.”

Bwala noted that his call was for more government attention and increased investment in Lagos. He stated, “My argument was, therefore, and justifiably so, for massive investments in infrastructure to sustain the economic and social responsibilities Lagos has shouldered on behalf of Nigeria.”

He added that for any administration to succeed, supporting Lagos was key. “Any President who truly seeks to succeed must critically support Lagos, not because it is ‘no man’s land,’ but because it is the heartbeat of the nation’s development.”

Apply: Akwa Ibom-BOI MSME loan program (N10m – N100m)

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Apply: Akwa Ibom-BOI MSME loan program (N10m – N100m)

September 3, 2025 – Akwa Ibom State Government, in partnership with the Bank of Industry, has launched a N4 billion Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises loan program to support businesses in the state.

The initiative, tagged AKSG-BOI MSME Loan, is designed to fuel business growth with financial support and stimulate economic activities across Akwa Ibom.

This isa coming after a recent Akwa Ibom-BOI entrepreneurial workshop for Matching Funds applicants.

The program will serve as a major investment in entrepreneurship. “This collaboration with the Bank of Industry is a commitment to fostering the growth and success of MSMEs in Akwa Ibom,” a statement said.

The initiative is aimed at:
1. Generate 5000+ new employment opportunities across various sectors, empowering Akwa Ibom residents and boosting local economies.
2. Provide accessible capital to enable MSMEs to scale operations, invest in new technologies, and expand market reach, fostering sustainable business expansion.
3. Stimulate economic activity by injecting vital funds into the MSME sector, contributing to increased GDP and overall economic development of Akwa Ibom State.
4. Empower farmers and agribusinesses with the resources needed to improve yields, adopt modern farming techniques, and enhance food production, ensuring food security and agricultural sustainability.
5. Offer affordable financing solutions to help businesses manage operational expenses, improve efficiency, and enhance competitiveness in the market.
6. By supporting MSMEs, the program aims to improve the financial stability of households, creating a ripple effect of positive economic impact across communities.

Eligibility criteria. Applicants must:
a. Own a Micro or Small, or Medium Enterprises.
b. Business headquartered must be in Akwa Ibom State
c. Business must be registered business with Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)
d. Applicant must Must have a valid means of identification.

The loan structure is based on obligor limits.
i. Micro Enterprises: Up to ₦10 million
ii. Small and Medium Enterprises: ₦10 million – ₦100 million

The interest rate for the facility has been fixed to ease repayment pressure on business owners. Term loans attract 7.5% per annum, while working capital loans are set at 8.5% per annum.

Facilities under the program are flexible. The term loan facility ranges from 3 to 5 years, while the working capital facility has a maximum tenure of 3 years. According to the government, “Funds are disbursed directly to the approved suppliers to ensure proper use of the loan.”

Approval is expected within 2 to 4 weeks, depending on proper documentation.

How to apply:

Ibom-BOI MSME loan application is currently open, and business owners are encouraged fill the application form to apply now through the official portal link Here.

Lagos State partners institution to boost basic education

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Lagos State partners institution to boost basic education

Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has partnered with the National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA) to strengthen the education sector and improve quality delivery in the state.

A three-day capacity-building workshop was held at Dover Hotels, Ikeja, with the theme “Education Policy Development Strategies and Purposeful Implementation of Basic Education Programme.” The programme was aimed at equipping management staff with skills to develop effective policies and drive purposeful implementation.

Declaring the event open, Executive Chairman of LASUBEB, Dr. Babatunde Hakeem Shittu, reaffirmed the board’s commitment to improving basic education. He said the effort aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s “Greater Lagos” agenda to deliver quality learning for children.

Head of Training and Research at NIEPA, Dr. Anne Lara Ogunsola, noted the value of such training for better education outcomes. She explained that “NIEPA has an ongoing collaboration with UNICEF to develop education sector plans for over seven states in the country.”

The workshop drew LASUBEB management members and stakeholders, showing the board’s commitment to collective progress. Director of Teacher Professional Development at LASUBEB, Mrs. Olayemi Babarinde, said the aim was to improve planning and management to ensure “no child is left behind.”

NIEPA’s Media Officer, Bodunde Tenabe, explained that officials were trained by facilitators from Ondo State on policy development, strategic planning, programme implementation, stakeholder engagement, monitoring and evaluation, and data-driven decision-making.

Tenabe said, “The highly participatory sessions allowed for in-depth discussions of real-life scenarios, enabling participants to share experiences and gain valuable insights. Pragmatic solutions to basic education challenges were proffered and strategies to enhance education quality, promote equity and ensure inclusivity in basic education were also explored.”

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