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Disregard circulating NDLEA recruitment linked to fake Sen Ndume

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Disregard circulating NDLEA recruitment linked to fake Sen Ndume

September 2, 2025 – An unofficial announcement claiming that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) recruitment is ongoing is currently circulating on social media, especially on Facebook.

The post, traced to a profile bearing the name Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume via https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1HohhXQi2X/, has been flagged as misleading because it does not appear to be the senator’s official account.

The NDLEA has not issued any statement on new recruitment.

Instead, Mahmud Isa Yola, Special Assistant to NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (Retd.), released a disclaimer. According to him, “Do not fall for this. NDLEA is not recruiting at the moment.” The disclaimer has also been reposted on the agency’s verified handle to alert the public.

The fake announcement was presented as a press release titled “NDLEA Recruitment: Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume Urges Qualified Nigerians to Apply – Application is Free.”

The statement claimed, “The office of Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, representing Borno south senatorial district, wishes to bring to the attention of the general public, particularly the youth of Borno South and across the country, that the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced its recruitment exercise, opening on 20th September.”

It further described the recruitment exercise as “a golden opportunity for qualified and patriotic Nigerians to serve their nation by joining the NDLEA in its fight against drug abuse and trafficking.”

The post even went as far as listing unofficial requirements such as being a Nigerian citizen, age between 18 to 35 years, and a minimum of O’Level certificate. Ironically, it also included a warning that “the application process is completely free of charge. Applicants are strongly advised to avoid paying money to anyone or falling victim to fraudulent claims.”

The message even encouraged applicants from Borno South to submit their details to the “Office of Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume for guidance and support” at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja. It also provided an email address, SpeakWithNdumeNow@gmail.com, for supposed correspondence.

The post ended with a note stating, “Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume remains committed to empowering Nigerian youths with opportunities for national service and meaningful employment.” It was signed by one “Junaid Jibril Maiva, Senior Legislative Aide, Office of Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume.”

The announcement and Facebook profile are fake and appear to be operated by fraudsters. Interested applicants and the general public is strongly advised to disregard the message, as NDLEA recruitment is not ongoing. Any legitimate recruitment will only be announced through official federal government and NDLEA channels.

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Ondo Gov approves N350m scholarship and bursary for 2025

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Ondo Gov approves N350m scholarship and bursary for 2025

The Ondo State Government has approved the release of N350 million for the 2025 scholarship and bursary scheme to support indigenes of the state in various higher institutions across Nigeria.

In a statement released on Tuesday in Akure, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Mr Ebenezer Adeniyan, explained that the funds will cover about 12,000 students. He noted that the beneficiaries include medical students, law students, and students with disabilities.

The governor described the approval as an upgrade from 2024 when N335 million was distributed to 11,200 students. He added that the state had previously increased the annual bursary allowance from N10,000 to N20,000 in 2024, while students with disabilities received N75,000 each and scholarship beneficiaries got N100,000 each.

“My administration recognises education as the cornerstone for development. It is the key to unlocking the potential of young people. Many of our students face significant financial challenges in pursuing their academic dreams. That is why we have these bursaries and scholarship awards, as well as financial assistance, to provide support, alleviate financial burdens, and enable our students to focus on their studies,” Aiyedatiwa stated.

He stressed that the awards are proof of his government’s strong commitment to the future of both Ondo State and Nigeria at large.

“We must ensure that our students have access to quality education and the necessary support to excel in their academic pursuits,” he added.

The initiative is regarded as part of efforts to strengthen education funding in the state, ensuring that young people have the support required to achieve their goals. The focus on medical and law students, as well as persons with disabilities, also reflects a push for inclusive and professional development.

It should be recalled that on August 27, the government announced a ban on graduation ceremonies in private nursery, primary, and junior secondary schools. It also prohibited illegal and unregistered schools while halting reaccreditation of private schools as part of quality assurance reforms.

FG NITDA urges enterprises to use AI and reskill workforce

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FG NITDA urges enterprises to use AI and reskill workforce

The Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, has said Nigeria is at a defining moment where disruptive technologies, shifting economic realities, and evolving governance structures are reshaping enterprises.

He made this statement while delivering a keynote address at the 3rd Biennial Corporate Governance and Enterprise Development Conference in Lagos on the theme “Redefining Enterprise Leadership in a Changing Nigeria: AI, Protectionism, and Governance in Focus.”

Abdullahi praised the resilience of Nigerian entrepreneurs but cautioned that informal, organic growth is no longer enough in today’s fast-changing environment. He urged business leaders to adopt what he described as “purpose-driven, performance-focused, and principle-led approaches” in order to remain competitive.

Sharing insights from NITDA’s own transformation process, he outlined five guiding principles for leadership. These include creating clarity, unleashing energy, building trust, winning today, and shaping tomorrow. He emphasized the need for cultural reorientation, aligning strategies with staff performance, and fostering innovation as key tools for enterprises to sustain relevance.

On artificial intelligence, Abdullahi described AI as a transformative “thought partner” that can help shape strategies and solutions. However, he warned about risks such as misinformation, stressing the importance of responsible adoption, reskilling, and co-intelligence models that combine human and machine strengths.

Addressing the issue of protectionism, he stated that tariffs and restrictions cannot shield enterprises in an interconnected global economy. Instead, he advocated for strengthening digital sovereignty through measures like data protection, talent development, and governance reforms.

He concluded by calling for balance, saying, “Nigeria must responsibly embrace technology, safeguard digital assets, and reform governance to turn challenges into opportunities and secure long-term competitiveness for its enterprises.”

FG to implement First Automotive Policy

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FG to implement First Automotive Policy

September 2, 2025 – The National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) and the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) held a high-level meeting to discuss the implementation of Nigeria’s first automotive policy and explore collaboration between the two agencies.

The Director-General of NADDC, Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, sought guidance from the Director-General of BPP, Dr. Adebowale A. Adedokun, on policy implementation frameworks. He explained that BPP has the mandate to provide such guidelines, which would be shared with stakeholders and local assemblers involved in Complete Knocked Down (CKD) and Semi Knocked Down (SKD) vehicle assembly.

Mr. Osanipin stressed the need to promote Made-in-Nigeria vehicles among government officials. He proposed that “at least 50% of vehicles used across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies should be locally manufactured.” He also called for stronger aftersales support, spare parts availability, and a credit corporation system to make vehicle ownership more affordable.

In his response, Dr. Adedokun noted that BPP’s role goes beyond compliance to ensuring international standards. He identified aftersales service as a major challenge and urged assemblers to adopt pricing models that would make vehicles more accessible to Nigerians.

He further emphasized the need for NADDC to collaborate with the power sector in developing electric vehicles, charging infrastructure, and sustainable energy solutions for the future of the automotive industry.

BPP also announced plans to conduct a nationwide vehicle audit. The survey will cover annual vehicle production, sales, and usage patterns across the country. NADDC is expected to provide the framework and templates to guide this exercise.

The meeting ended with a resolution to engage local assemblers on issues such as insurance, warranty, aftersales, local component sourcing, collaboration with the power sector, and other industry priorities.

Katsina Conducts CBT Recruitment for Model Schools

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Katsina Conducts CBT Recruitment for Model Schools

Katsina State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has conducted a Computer Based Test examination for recruitment into Model Schools across the state. The examination, held at the Federal College of Education Katsina and Umar Musa Yar’adua University ICT Centers, brought together applicants from different parts of Katsina State.

A consultant from Hallmark Educational Consult explained that the application process was clearly outlined to guide interested candidates step by step. Speaking on the exercise, Hajiya Zainab Bugaje Jika said, “Everyone has an opportunity to apply and participate in the recruitment process.”

She further noted that after the recruitment, successful teachers will be posted to various Model Schools.

According to her, the schools include those in Radda under Katsina zone, Durmukal under Daura zone, and Jikamshi under Funtua zone, to strengthen education delivery in the state.

Tinubu’s wife gives N50,000 grants to 500 women in Nasarawa

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Tinubu’s wife gives N50,000 grants to 500 women in Nasarawa

The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) in partnership with the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) has empowered 500 women in Nasarawa State. The beneficiaries, drawn from the 13 local government areas (LGAs), each received fifty thousand naira (N50,000) to support their small businesses.

During the disbursement, the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, explained that the program is designed to encourage the entrepreneurial spirit of women who provide for their families and uplift their communities. She was represented by Mrs. Tosin Shilla Akabe, wife of the Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State.

In her remarks, Senator Tinubu said, “Five hundred women from each of the 36 states and the FCT will be receiving N50,000 each to strengthen and recapitalize their existing small businesses. I will be presenting the sum of N50,000 each to some of the preselected 500 beneficiaries at this event today.”

She added, “Let me emphasize that this is not a loan. It is a grant and a seed of renewed hope to help you recapitalize your existing businesses.”

Senator Tinubu also praised TEF for donating one billion naira (N1bn) to RHI to directly support 18,500 women across Nigeria. According to her, this partnership reflects a strong commitment to women empowerment, entrepreneurship, and small business growth.

The wife of the Nasarawa State governor, Mrs. Silifat Sule, described the program as an opportunity for women to stand on their feet and run businesses that can sustain them and their families. She expressed gratitude to Senator Tinubu and TEF for bringing the initiative to the state.

Sule urged the beneficiaries to use the money wisely for the benefit of their families and communities.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Miss Jemimah Abari thanked the First Lady, the Nasarawa State Government, and TEF for the gesture. She prayed for more of such opportunities that will continue to impact the lives of women across the country.

FG BoI disburse N16.1bn loan to 22 Manufacturers under N75bn fund

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FG BoI disburse N16.1bn loan to 22 Manufacturers under N75bn fund

Federal Government, through the Bank of Industry, has released N16.1 billion to 22 manufacturing companies as the first tranche of disbursement under its N75 billion fund.

According to findings, the plan was originally to support 75 companies with N1 billion each. However, only 22 firms have so far accessed the N16.1 billion, while another report indicated that 140 manufacturers were listed as potential recipients.

The funds are targeted at boosting the production capacities of manufacturing companies and expanding their distribution channels. Seventy-five registered companies under the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) are among those earmarked to benefit from the scheme.

Investigations showed that the disbursement began 14 months after the initiative was announced. The facility is offered at a nine per cent annual interest rate. Officials explained that the loan is expected to help large manufacturers manage economic challenges and sustain operations despite rising costs.

A source revealed, “The delay was caused by government bureaucratic processes, but the disbursement has now started.”

Beyond the manufacturing sector, the Federal Government also allocated another N75 billion to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) under the same programme. This part of the intervention is designed to assist smaller businesses with access to affordable credit.

The Nation recalled that in December 2013, government introduced the Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme to support businesses affected by reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy and challenges around foreign exchange. The current intervention follows the same direction of providing access to funds to sustain businesses.

Under the agreement with the Bank of Industry, the N75 billion for MSMEs is meant to cover 75,000 enterprises, each expected to receive N1 million. The plan allows small businesses to submit proposals to the bank and access credit facilities to aid operations.

FG Trains 400 participants on CNG vehicle conversion in Kano

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FG Trains 400 participants on CNG vehicle conversion in Kano

The Federal Government, in collaboration with the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (PiCNG), on Tuesday, 2nd September 2025, concluded the Training and Awareness Programme in Kano.

Recall that two weeks ago, PiCNG commenced the CNG Training in Kano State. The initiative was designed to equip young people with practical knowledge and technical skills needed to convert vehicles from petrol to Compressed Natural Gas.

A total of 400 participants took part in the programme, marking a milestone in the push for cleaner and more affordable energy solutions in Nigeria.

Speaking on the development, officials noted that “the successful completion of the training shows the government’s commitment to sustainable energy and to creating new job opportunities through Compressed Natural Gas.”

NDDC graduates 300 youths from technical skills training programme

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NDDC graduates 300 youths from technical skills training programme

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has graduated about 300 youths from its two-month Technical Skills Training Programme. The training was organized by the Department of Commercial and Industrial Development.

The programme focused on pipe fitting, scaffolding, sandblasting and pipe coating, as well as forklift operations. It was designed to give young people practical skills that can help them secure jobs and build better futures.

Speaking at the graduation event, the Executive Director, Projects, Dr. Victor Antai, represented the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku. He said the initiative aims to create jobs and reduce crime in the Niger Delta.

According to him, the training also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. He added that the graduates will not be left alone after the programme.

“The graduates will benefit from follow-up mentorship and additional opportunities to enhance their skills,” Dr. Antai said. He encouraged them to use the knowledge gained to contribute positively to the region.

In his goodwill message, the Executive Director, Corporate Services, Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, congratulated the participants. He urged them to apply their skills productively, create wealth, and support the development of their communities.

Lagos Govt unveils Skills Up Programme for youth in tourism

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Lagos Govt unveils Skills Up Programme for youth in tourism

The Lagos State Government has launched a new initiative tagged “101 Days in Lagos,” created to boost tourism, strengthen the hospitality industry, and increase revenue for stakeholders in the creative economy.

The announcement was made by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, during a meeting with the Pulse Africa team led by its Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Katharina Link, at the Ministry’s conference room.

According to Aregbe, the festival will run from September 26 to January 4, 2026. It will feature cultural, entertainment, and sporting activities across different parts of Lagos State.

He explained that the programme is designed to showcase Lagos’ cultural richness while creating more economic opportunities for industry players.

Aregbe said, “The agenda included empowering youth through robust skills development, showcasing the rich tapestry of Lagos’ cultural heritage to a global audience, fostering international sports engagement, and diversifying entertainment options to invigorate the daytime economy. These goals align seamlessly with the Ministry’s vision to promote and develop the tourism sector, highlight the State’s cultural narratives, and cultivate a lively entertainment scene.”

He noted that the “Skills Up Lagos” programme will be one of the highlights. It aims to train young people in tourism, hospitality, and event management.

Other planned events include music and fashion festivals, art exhibitions, sporting competitions, and food fairs. These activities are expected to attract both local and international visitors.

“This initiative promises an exciting array of cultural celebrations, thrilling entertainment, high-profile sports events, and a myriad of hospitality activities,” Aregbe added.

He stressed that the event will also help build international partnerships and position Lagos as Africa’s cultural and tourism hub.

Pulse Africa CEO Ms. Katharina Link described the organisation’s support for the initiative. She said, “Pulse is passionate about highlighting the energy, creativity, and opportunities that Lagos represents. We see ourselves as a platform that amplifies voices, spotlights hidden gems, and connects Lagos to audiences across Nigeria and beyond.”

Also present was Ms. Tannaz Bahnam of Awari/Lost in Lagos. She highlighted the importance of partnerships in shaping Lagos’ cultural identity.

She explained that collaborations between media platforms and government can redefine how the city is experienced globally.

The “101 Days in Lagos” festival is expected to stimulate tourism, empower youth, and expand the creative industry. It will also provide residents and visitors with opportunities to enjoy Lagos’ cultural diversity and vibrant atmosphere.

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