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Godmade Homes Issues N3.70bn Series 1 Commercial Paper

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Godmade Homes Issues N3.70bn Series 1 Commercial Paper

Godmade Homes Limited has successfully issued its N3.70 billion Series 1 Commercial Paper (CP) under its N10 billion Commercial Paper Programme, marking a key step in the company’s funding and expansion strategy.

The Series 1 CP, which was issued in January 2026, was initially offered at N3.0 billion. However, due to strong investor interest, the offer closed at N3.70 billion. The issuance recorded a 123 percent subscription rate, reflecting a 23 percent oversubscription. This outcome highlights solid investor confidence in the company’s financial position and long-term strategy.

Commercial Papers are short-term debt instruments used by companies to raise funds from institutional investors. By successfully issuing this CP, Godmade Homes has strengthened its access to structured financing within Nigeria’s debt capital market. The programme size of N10 billion provides additional room for future issuances, depending on the company’s funding needs.

According to the company, the proceeds from the Series 1 issuance will be used to support ongoing real estate projects and for general corporate purposes. This includes accelerating project completion timelines and ensuring efficient delivery of housing units to customers.

The successful issuance also signals growing participation of real estate firms in Nigeria’s capital market as they seek alternative funding sources beyond traditional bank loans. For investors, the oversubscription indicates strong appetite for structured, fixed-income instruments backed by credible corporate issuers.

Pathway Advisors Limited acted as Financial Adviser, Transaction Sponsor, and Lead Arranger on the deal. The transaction further reinforces confidence in structured commercial paper programmes as viable tools for corporate funding in Nigeria.

With this milestone, Godmade Homes Limited has positioned itself for continued growth under its broader N10 billion Commercial Paper Programme, while strengthening its role in contributing to housing development across the country.

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BudgIT opens Women for Women Budget & Policy Lab training programme

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BudgIT opens Women for Women Budget & Policy Lab training programme

BudgIT Nigeria has opened applications for the Women for Women Budget & Policy Lab, a special training initiative designed to equip young Nigerian women with practical policy and budget knowledge.

Every budget decision has real consequences for women across Nigeria. Yet limited access, low representation, and gaps in technical knowledge still prevent many women from participating in the policy spaces where critical decisions are made. Too often, women’s advocacy is dismissed as online noise instead of being recognised as informed civic engagement.

To mark International Women’s Day, the women at BudgIT Nigeria are changing that narrative. The Women for Women Budget & Policy Lab is a full-day, hands-on training programme focused on building real capacity. Participants will gain practical skills in analysing public budgets, understanding government policies, and engaging effectively in civic processes. The training will also break down how budget decisions are made, why they matter, and how informed voices can influence outcomes at community and national levels.

By the end of the programme, participants will be better equipped to contribute meaningfully to policy conversations that affect Nigerian women and their communities. The goal is simple: move from online conversations to informed, impactful engagement in real policy spaces.

Eligibility is open to 10 female leaders aged 18 to 35 who are passionate about governance, social impact, or policy advocacy. Applicants must be available to attend the full-day training and must demonstrate a clear commitment to advancing a civic advocacy cause using the knowledge gained from the programme.

To qualify, you should be an aspiring leader in the social impact, governance, or policy space, available for the training, and committed to applying what you learn.

The application deadline is Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Interested applicants can complete the form via: https://forms.gle/Crn7w876cqav6VTa6

Why Is Hypo Trending? Here Is What Happened

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Why Is Hypo Trending? Here Is What Happened

Hypo, the popular household bleach brand in Nigeria, is currently trending across social media. What started as an online feud quickly turned into a national conversation involving influencers, AI-generated images, public warnings, and even a response from Seyi Tinubu. Here is a direct breakdown of why Hypo is trending.

The issue began with a public dispute between social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) and influencer King Mitchy. The two were already exchanging words online over charity activities and personal allegations. As the argument escalated, emotions ran high and the situation moved from posts and videos into a dramatic livestream moment.

During a TikTok livestream, King Mitchy was seen consuming what viewers believed was Hypo bleach. The video spread quickly. The situation became even more alarming when she was also seen with Sniper insecticide during the broadcast. Clips from the livestream circulated rapidly across TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X, triggering panic and widespread reactions. Soon after, unverified rumours began spreading that she had died. Those reports were false, but the damage had already been done. The name “Hypo” was now everywhere online.

The situation took another turn when AI-generated images started appearing on social media. Some users created edited or AI-designed visuals that made Hypo look like juice, chocolate drinks, or sweet beverages. These images were shared as jokes, memes, and reactions to the incident. However, many people expressed concern that such visuals were misleading and dangerous, especially for children or uninformed viewers who might not understand that Hypo is a chemical cleaning product.

As the trend grew, the makers of Hypo released an official public statement. The company made it clear that Hypo is strictly a cleaning product used to remove stains, whiten fabrics, deodorize, and kill germs. They warned the public not to consume it under any circumstances. The company also condemned the circulation of AI-generated images that falsely presented Hypo as a drink. Influencers and content creators were reminded that their reach comes with responsibility.

The controversy expanded further when Seyi Tinubu’s name was dragged into the feud. VeryDarkMan mentioned him while criticizing King Mitchy’s charity activities, suggesting political backing. This caused Seyi Tinubu to trend alongside the Hypo saga. He later issued a public clarification denying any improper involvement. He stated that he had only met King Mitchy once in a public setting and that any financial support given was strictly for charity work. He rejected the allegations and called for responsible public discourse.

In summary, Hypo is trending because of a mix of online drama, a shocking livestream, viral AI-generated images, official corporate warnings, and the involvement of public figures. What began as a personal social media dispute quickly evolved into a wider conversation about influence, misinformation, and responsibility in Nigeria’s digital space.

Bayelsa Releases Phase 4 Skills Programme Form Distribution Schedule

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Bayelsa Releases Phase 4 Skills Programme Form Distribution Schedule

The Douye Diri Skills Acquisition and Empowerment Programme Phase 4 has released new scheduled dates and times for the distribution of forms.

There have been slight adjustments to the previously announced dates due to state activities.

Take note of the new schedule below.

Requirements:
Applicants are to come with a photocopy of their:

  • Local Government Identification Letter, and
  • NIN or Voter’s Card.

Revised schedule by Local Government Area:

  • Yenagoa LGA – 2nd March 2026 – 9:00 AM – LGA Headquarters
  • Kolokuma/Opokuma LGA – 5th March 2026 – 9:00 AM – LGA Headquarters
  • Southern Ijaw LGA – 9th March 2026 – 9:00 AM – LGA Headquarters
  • Sagbama LGA – 11th March 2026 – 9:00 AM – LGA Headquarters
  • Ekeremor LGA – 13th March 2026 – 9:00 AM – LGA Headquarters
  • Brass LGA – 16th March 2026 – 9:00 AM – LGA Headquarters
  • Nembe LGA – 18th March 2026 – 9:00 AM – LGA Headquarters
  • Ogbia LGA – 19th March 2026 – 9:00 AM – LGA Headquarters

The team of the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Entrepreneurship Development, in collaboration with the Youth Presidents and CDC Chairmen, will be on the ground at each LGA Headquarters to ensure effective and transparent distribution of forms.

Skills to acquire:

  1. Mastering AI Tools
  2. Web Design
  3. App Development
  4. Animation
  5. Video and Photo Editing
  6. Graphic Design
  7. Content Creation
  8. Digital Marketing
  9. Dropshipping
  10. Phone Repair
  11. Catering, Pastries, and Food Processing
  12. Fashion Design
  13. Paint Production and Application
  14. Acrylic Nails, Nail Fixing, Eyelashes, and Contact Lens Application
  15. Makeup and Gele Tying
  16. Shoe Production
  17. Solar and Electrical Works
  18. Barbing
  19. Cosmetology
  20. Soap and Detergent Production
  21. Fish Farming
  22. Snail and Urban Farming
  23. Generator and Plant Repairs
  24. Welding

Individuals who have previously benefited from this scheme with starter packs are not eligible to participate in Phase 4 recruitment. Defaulters will face legal consequences, including arrest and prosecution.

His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, remains committed to empowering the people of Bayelsa State by teaching them how to fish, ensuring self-reliance and sustainable development.

ADC Opens Free Online Membership Registration Portal

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ADC Opens Free Online Membership Registration Portal

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has officially opened its portal for free online membership registration nationwide, following the successful launch of its membership registration and revalidation exercise in Abuja last month.

The new digital platform was introduced to ensure the party complies with the requirements of the Electoral Act 2026, which mandates political parties to maintain updated digital membership registers. By moving its database online, the ADC aims to strengthen transparency, accountability, and internal democracy in line with current electoral regulations.

Since the commencement of the physical and grassroots registration exercise in February, the party has recorded significant interest from Nigerians across various states and in the diaspora. To further expand access, the online option is designed to remove barriers, simplify the enrolment process, and allow eligible Nigerians to join the party seamlessly and securely from any location.

The exercise does not affect ADC’s firm objections to certain provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, which it believes give undue advantage to the ruling party, as well as concerns about the related INEC timetable.

Only individuals whose membership details are fully captured and verified in its official digital register will be eligible to vote or be voted for during party primaries. As a result, members who previously registered on the old platform are required to revalidate their membership on the new portal. This is necessary because additional mandatory information is now required to ensure full compliance with the Electoral Act and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guidelines.

Support groups and associations are also encouraged to take advantage of the registration window by visiting adcregistration.ng and completing the onboarding process.

Interested applicants must choose their registration category—either Party Membership or Support Group—and provide a valid National Identification Number (NIN) to complete the process via the official ADC portal at https://adcregistration.ng/.

FG Opens ICSS Grow Fund MSME Application Portal

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FG Opens ICSS Grow Fund MSME Application Portal

The Federal Government has opened application portal for the ICSS Grow Fund MSME Financing Scheme in partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) across all 36 states and the FCT. The initiative is designed to support youth entrepreneurs who are ready to build, structure, and expand sustainable businesses but face limited access to funding and guidance.

The Inspire, Create, Start, and Scale (ICSS) Grow Fund MSME Financing Scheme, powered by SMEDAN and supported by Jaiz Bank, is a strategic effort to bridge the financing gap affecting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Access to finance remains one of the biggest challenges confronting young entrepreneurs with innovative ideas and the drive to succeed. This scheme aims to change that narrative by combining structured training with responsible financing.

The ICSS Financing Scheme aligns with the broader national agenda to equip young entrepreneurs with the right skills, connect them to viable markets, and provide funding based on preparation and readiness. It encourages discipline, rewards proper planning, and promotes structured growth, contributing to youth enterprise development under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The fund is structured into four modules: Inspire, Create, Start, and Scale. Each module is designed to meet entrepreneurs at different stages of their journey, from idea development to business expansion.

Participants will benefit from a clear, step-by-step pathway to launch and grow a successful enterprise. The programme offers digital learning and in-person training tailored to individual business needs, alongside a connected support system that evolves with each entrepreneur’s progress.

Eligibility extends to recent graduates and young people seeking entrepreneurial skills and self-employment opportunities. It also covers individuals with business ideas who need guidance on how to begin, entrepreneurs running small ventures that require refinement and validation, and MSMEs ready to formalise, expand, or scale operations. Applicants must demonstrate a willingness to participate actively in the programme.

Interested applicants can apply through the official ICSS Grow Fund portal at https://smedan.gov.ng/icss/icss-registration/.

AOUN Opens Applications for Merit-Based SKILL Scholarship

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AOUN Opens Applications for Merit-Based SKILL Scholarship

American Open University Nigeria (AOUN) has officially opened applications for its new merit-based financial aid initiative, the SKILL Scholarship, creating a fresh opportunity for Nigerians seeking to break into the tech and knowledge economy.

The SKILL Scholarship, which stands for Scholarships for Knowledge, Innovation, Leadership, and Learning, is designed to remove the financial barriers that stop many capable young Nigerians from accessing quality, technology-driven higher education. With applications now open for the upcoming academic session, the university is calling on talented individuals with proven financial need to take advantage of the initiative.

According to the institution, the scholarship is not just about grades. It is about identifying future builders, innovators and problem-solvers who have the potential to thrive in high-demand digital careers but lack the funds to pursue their ambitions. As the global economy becomes increasingly digital-first, the need for specialised skills in software engineering, data science, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and tech entrepreneurship continues to grow. However, many young Nigerians remain excluded due to the high cost of tuition and access to modern learning tools.

To address this gap, AOUN introduced a structured evaluation system known as the 100-Point SKILL Scorecard. The assessment model goes beyond traditional academic performance and measures candidates across five major areas. Verified financial need serves as a key requirement. Knowledge accounts for 30 percent and is tested through a technical competency assessment. Innovation also carries 30 percent and is evaluated through a Builder’s Portfolio showcasing real-world projects. Leadership makes up 20 percent and is assessed through video essays and interviews, while Learning accounts for the final 20 percent, focusing on adaptability, self-development and continuous growth.

The SKILL Scholarship offers three levels of tuition support. The Titan Award provides 100 percent tuition coverage for the top one to two percent of applicants. The Innovator Grant covers 50 percent tuition for high-potential candidates with strong project portfolios. The Access Bursary offers 25 percent tuition support to students with significant financial need and solid academic potential.

Eligible degree programmes under the scholarship include Software Engineering, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Business Administration and Entrepreneurship, all aligned with critical sectors of the digital economy.

Prospective applicants are required to complete a technical assessment, submit a portfolio of projects and present a video pitch explaining how earning the degree would create impact beyond themselves.

By opening applications for the SKILL Scholarship, American Open University Nigeria is positioning itself as a platform for inclusive digital education, ensuring that talent and ambition, not financial limitation, determine who gains access to the future of work.

Sokoto Distributes Food Items to 5,000 Women for Ramadan Relief

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Sokoto Distributes Food Items to 5,000 Women for Ramadan Relief

Sokoto State has distributed food items to 5,000 women across the state as part of efforts to ease the burden of Ramadan on families. The intervention is aimed at ensuring that women, especially those from vulnerable households, have enough food supplies for Suhoor and Iftar throughout the fasting period.

The distribution exercise was carried out in different local government areas, with beneficiaries drawn from various women groups. The initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to providing timely relief during important religious seasons, particularly for low-income households who may struggle with rising food costs.

Speaking during the exercise, the wife of the Governor, Hajiya Fatima Ahmed Aliyu, explained that the support was designed to ensure that women do not lack basic food items while observing the Ramadan fast. She noted that Ramadan is a period of devotion, sacrifice, and community support, and that government intervention can help reduce hardship for many families.

She also disclosed that beyond food distribution, the state government recently extended financial and cash assistance to religious leaders and other vulnerable groups. According to her, Imams, Deputy Imams, Muazzins, widows, orphans, and persons living with disabilities were among those who benefited from the support. The goal, she said, is to make the fasting period easier for residents across the state.

Officials present at the event commended the initiative, describing it as consistent with the administration’s welfare-focused approach. The State Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Hajiya Hadiza Ahmed Shagari, stated that the Ramadan support packages have become a yearly intervention designed to cushion economic challenges faced by families.

Similarly, other government representatives noted that the state, through relevant ministries and agencies, continues to prioritize vulnerable groups in its social support programmes. They emphasized that such interventions are part of broader efforts to improve living conditions and promote inclusive development.

The distribution event brought together women from different communities, creating an atmosphere of appreciation and solidarity. Beneficiaries were encouraged to make proper use of the food items to achieve the intended purpose of supporting their households during the fasting period.

In addition to the distribution exercise, Governor Ahmed Aliyu and his wife received recognition from the Department of SIWES, Umaru Ali Shinkafi Polytechnic, Sokoto, in acknowledgment of their contributions to community development.

The large-scale distribution to 5,000 women highlights Sokoto State’s continued focus on social welfare during Ramadan. By targeting women across multiple local government areas, the initiative aims to directly impact families and ensure that the spiritual observance of Ramadan is not overshadowed by economic hardship.

FG begins Presidential Emergency food distribution for 6,000 Katsina households

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FG begins Presidential Emergency food distribution for 6,000 Katsina households

The Federal Government has commenced the distribution of Presidential Emergency Food and Nutrition Items in Katsina State, targeting vulnerable households across the state as part of ongoing efforts to tackle food insecurity and rising hardship.

The flag-off ceremony took place at the People’s Square, New Government House, Katsina, where officials confirmed that the intervention is designed to provide immediate relief to thousands of struggling families. The initiative forms part of a broader national response to economic pressures, climate challenges, and displacement affecting communities in different parts of the country.

Leading the exercise on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction was the Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Hon. Tijani Aliyu Ahmed. He explained that the distribution reflects the Federal Government’s resolve to protect vulnerable Nigerians and ensure that critical food and nutrition support reaches those who need it most.

According to him, the intervention goes beyond short-term food assistance. It is also structured to serve as a bridge toward recovery, stability, and improved livelihoods for affected households. He noted that continued collaboration with state governments, humanitarian partners, and community leaders remains key to achieving sustainable outcomes.

Representatives of the Ministry emphasized that the programme responds to increasing food insecurity driven by conflict, displacement, climate pressures, and economic shocks. They added that providing food items and nutrition support is a necessary step in strengthening social protection systems while longer-term recovery strategies are being implemented.

The initiative, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, underscores the administration’s commitment to supporting citizens during difficult periods. In Katsina State alone, over 6,000 beneficiaries are expected to receive assistance. These include internally displaced persons, migrants, and other vulnerable households identified through established verification processes.

The distributed items include essential food supplies, nutritional materials, and medical support, particularly targeted at malnourished children and families facing severe hardship. Public health institutions in the state are also receiving medical supplies to enhance service delivery at the community level.

The Deputy Governor of Katsina State, Faruk Lawal Jobe, who represented Governor Dikko Umar Radda, expressed appreciation for the intervention. He described the distribution as timely and important in supporting residents affected by economic and environmental challenges.

Traditional and community leaders present at the ceremony commended the initiative and called for transparency and fairness in the distribution process to ensure that only verified vulnerable households benefit.

With the commencement of the Presidential Emergency Food and Nutrition Items distribution in Katsina State, the Federal Government has taken a concrete step toward addressing urgent food needs while reinforcing broader efforts aimed at long-term resilience and social stability.

Abia Launches Abia Connect Card for Green Shuttle Cashless Payments

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Abia Launches Abia Connect Card for Green Shuttle Cashless Payments

The Abia State Government has officially introduced the Abia Connect Card, a smart and cashless payment system for all Abia Green Shuttle Services across the state.

The initiative is driven by the reform agenda of His Excellency, the People’s Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex C. Otti, OFR. It is designed to modernise public transportation, eliminate cash handling, and ensure a seamless commuter experience for residents and visitors who rely on the Green Shuttle network.

According to the government, the Abia Connect Card, also known as the “Abia State Card,” is the approved Transport Card to be used on all Green Shuttle Services across Abia State. Commuters are required to tap their card on the payment device when boarding and wait for the “Welcome” confirmation sound to validate successful payment.

The first card is currently free for residents. However, a ₦50 charge applies to every top-up. Authorities also confirmed that the card does not expire, and funds loaded on the card do not expire. Each card is valid for one person per trip and can be used across all approved Green Shuttle routes in the state. Commuters can check their available balance with an agent at the Central Bus Terminal at any time.

Residents can obtain the card at any designated Central Bus Terminal. Available locations include Ariaria Junction, MCC, Osisioma Flyover, Tonimas, PH Road Aba First Bus Stop (Cemetery), Ala Oji Flyover, Ebem Park, Abiriba Junction, Akara Junction and Uzuakoli. The government noted that an ABSSIN is required for registration before a card can be issued.

Officials described the rollout as “another bold step towards a structured, technology-driven and transparent transport system in Abia State.” They added that the cashless system will help improve accountability, reduce delays linked to cash payments, and provide a more organised transport environment for commuters.

The Green Shuttle Routes and Price list will be provided below for public reference.

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