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China to Develop Nigerian Language Keyboards

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China to Develop Nigerian Language Keyboards

The National Institute for Nigerian Languages (NINLAN), Aba, has signed an agreement with a Chinese technology company to develop keyboards with Nigerian language orthographs.

The Executive Director of NINLAN, Prof. Ogbonna Onuoha, announced this during the institute’s first matriculation of degree students at its Obikabia-Ovom campus near Aba on Friday.

He said, “We are partnering with a Chinese technology firm to develop specialised computer keyboards with indigenous language characters, to support reading, writing, and digital content creation in some Nigerian languages. The institute is also pioneering text-to-speech and speech-to-text applications powered by natural language processing algorithms to facilitate modern teaching, learning and research in Nigerian Languages. We have equally designed the NINLAN Nigerian Languages Online (NNLO) Programme, which, when launched, will deliver certificate and diploma programmes virtually to all interested persons.”

Prof. Onuoha explained that the initiative would serve Nigerians at home and abroad, including foreigners seeking to learn Nigerian languages for business, diplomatic, cultural, or career purposes.

The event marked the 7th matriculation of the institute with about 433 students, including its pioneer degree students.

He said NINLAN is affiliated with Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, to strengthen its position as a degree-awarding institution. He urged the students to be diligent, disciplined, and committed to scholarship ideals.

Acting Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Prof. Carol Arinze-Umobi, welcomed the students and wished them success. She said NINLAN, established in 1993, plays a unique role in research, teaching, and documentation of Nigerian languages.

Prof. Arinze-Umobi, represented by Prof. George Onwudiwe, warned students against cultism, truancy, examination malpractice, and forgery, stressing that culprits would face sanctions.

The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), Prof. Chijioke Okwelle, congratulated the institution and the students, describing them as pioneers carrying the honour and responsibility of being the first degree set.

He was represented by Dr. Sunday Ezeme, Provost of Federal College of Education, Ofeme, who assured that NCCE would continue to support NINLAN’s development.

JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, represented by Juliet Aniekwe, JAMB Coordinator for Abia State, urged the students to maintain good conduct and respect authorities.

One of the new students, Favour Godwin, studying English and Igbo Education, said she was excited about the environment and hoped to have an impactful learning experience. She encouraged other students to choose NINLAN for their studies.

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FG NITDA Pledges Support for Bayelsa ICT Hub Innovation

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FG NITDA Pledges Support for Bayelsa ICT Hub Innovation

A delegation from the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), sent by the Director General Kashifu Inuwa and led by Dr. Dimie Wariowei, Director of Corporate Planning and Strategy, has visited the Bayelsa State ICT Hub in Yenagoa for an assessment.

During a courtesy call on Governor Douye Diri, who was represented by his Deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, the team commended the state government for its efforts and facilities already in place. Dr. Wariowei praised the state’s vision, saying, “We appreciate the foresight of the government and the impressive structures on ground to drive digital transformation.”

He noted that NITDA remains committed to supporting the project’s smooth take-off and sustainability. “NITDA will provide the necessary technical guidance and work closely with the state to ensure the ICT Hub becomes a model for digital innovation, youth empowerment, and improved digital literacy,” he said.

The visit highlights the Federal Government’s focus on technology development, digital economy growth, and youth skills training as key drivers of job creation and economic opportunities in Bayelsa State.

Foundation Says Africa Needs More Than Money

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Foundation Says Africa Needs More Than Money

The Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation has officially launched the LEAD summit, a major step toward developing a new generation of African public leaders. At the event, Chairman Mr Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CFR, shared his vision for the continent’s growth.

Speaking on the topic “Capital and Capability: Building for the New Africa,” he stated, “Africa needs more than money to grow. We need financial, knowledge, and cultural capital working together.”

The LEAD summit is a bold pan-African initiative designed to strengthen governance, improve public administration, and drive economic and social growth across the continent. It is led by the Africa CEO Forum in collaboration with UM6P – University Mohammed VI Polytechnic, BADEA – Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, and African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank).

Mr Aig-Imoukhuede emphasised that Africa’s progress depends on combining the right ideas, values, and expertise to create lasting impact. According to him, this approach will help build stronger institutions and prepare future leaders for the challenges of governance and economic transformation.

The first cohort of the programme includes 45 participants selected from 25 African countries. These participants are being trained to transform public sector performance and address Africa’s most pressing issues, from policy reform to economic development.

“Together, we are building a generation of public leaders who can indeed transform Africa’s economic future,” Mr Aig-Imoukhuede said.

Nafisa: TeenEagle Global champion receives N800,000 cash

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Nafisa: TeenEagle Global champion receives N800,000 cash

TeenEagle 3 Global Finals has continued to make headlines in Nigeria as the CEO of Manga Automobiles, Muhammad Manga, fulfilled his promise by awarding N800,000 to Nafisa Abdullahi Aminu, the winner of the TeenEagle World English Language Competition. The award was part of a total disbursement of N1.7 million on August 29, 2025.

This follows the recognition given to Nafisa by the Federal Government, where she was awarded N200,000 in Abuja during a ceremony presented by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa.

In an official post, Manga Automobiles stated, “1st Place! A big Congratulations to the brilliant winners for bringing this home. Manga Automobiles is proud to support and encourage excellence with a reward of 1.7 million. Keep soaring higher – the future is yours.”

During the presentation, Muhammad Manga said, “This award is coming from the Federal Ministry of Education (on behalf). Thank you Mr. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Thank you the Minister of Education, Olatunji Alausa.”

He explained the breakdown of the cash awards, saying, “I promised to award her N500,000 but I increased it to N800,000. Then for the other two contestants, we have awarded them N300,000 each. For her aunty that brought her, we award her N150,000. Then for the baby they came with, we give her N50,000. Then for her aunty again, N100,000 award. In total, N1.7 million.”

Manga added, “That N200,000 you received from the federal government is more than even my car stand because you have been recognized by the government, which is a bigger reward. I saw some people comment that the government gave footballers N152 million but gave you N200,000. However, the government is done with those footballers, but as for you, you have been recognized. Don’t make people’s comments discourage you.”

Nafisa, speaking after receiving the award, encouraged other young people by saying, “To all other kids that want to be like me, I want to tell you that your dreams are valid. Your potential is limitless. Don’t let anyone dull your spark. Work smart, work hard, and also pray.”

396,000 Students Benefit from NELFUND Tuition Loans – FG

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396,000 Students Benefit from NELFUND Tuition Loans – FG

The federal government has announced that no fewer than 396,000 students have benefited from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) tuition loans under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The disclosure was made on Friday in Lokoja during a town hall meeting held to highlight the key achievements of President Tinubu’s administration in the last two years, with special focus on Kogi State.

In his presentation, the guest speaker, Lawal Shuaibu, who represented the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the federal government’s initiatives have positively impacted the lives of Nigerians, especially students.

“One notable achievement is the NELFUND tuition loan scheme, which has benefited over 396,000 students as of August 7, 2025. This initiative aims to provide financial assistance to ensure they complete their education and have a secure future,” Shuaibu said.

He added that the Kogi government had attracted investments worth over N900 billion, with 7,800 hectares of land cleared for farming.

On industrialisation, he revealed that the government had commenced the construction of five mini-LNG plants in Ajaokuta, valued at over $500 million. “This project is expected to create job opportunities, provide energy for many states, and position Nigeria as a key player in the global energy market,” he stated.

Shuaibu further said the state government had rolled out plans to train 25,000 youths to take the lead in mineral exploration and contribute to the state’s economic growth.

Earlier, the Head of the Federal Information Centre in Lokoja, Sabina Abalaka, explained that the programme was designed to sensitise the public on the federal government’s achievements.

She said the Tinubu administration had taken bold steps to address economic challenges, including the removal of fuel subsidy, to set Nigeria on a path of sustainable growth. “Despite initial hardships, the government’s decisions are expected to positively impact economic growth and national development,” Abalaka said.

The Special Adviser on Media to the Kogi governor, Ismaila Isah, also spoke on the administration’s achievements in agriculture and housing. He said the president had implemented the Renewed Hope Agricultural Mechanisation Programme (RHAMP) with the commissioning of 2,000 tractors and 9,022 specialised implements.

“This is the largest single mechanisation drive in Nigeria’s history. The programme has also led to the cultivation of over 55,000 hectares of land and created 60,000 jobs,” Isah said.

He added that in Kogi State, Governor Ahmed Ododo had distributed fertilisers to 30,000 farmers and initiated a tractor refurbishment programme, saving the state N20 billion.

Isah noted that the government had also allocated 100 hectares of land to the Federal Housing Authority for the construction of a 1,000-unit housing estate under the Renewed Hope Housing Project. Represented by Oyiza Bello-Salami, he reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting the president’s reforms and development programmes.

“Governor Ahmed Ododo praised the president’s visionary leadership and bold policies, which had started to yield positive results. The state government is working to implement programmes that align with the federal government’s agenda, including the creation of a Ministry of Livestock Development,” he said.

The Maigari of Lokoja, Ibrahim Gambo, also commended the president for reforms that have positively impacted the lives of citizens. Represented by the Matawale of Lokoja, Ademu Muhammed, he hailed the NELFUND initiative, noting that it had relieved the burden of school fees and upkeep for students and parents.

He called for the extension of the initiative’s benefits to the grassroots and appreciated the government’s efforts in improving Nigeria’s foreign reserves.

Abia Gov Otti Says 20% of State Budget Allocated to Education

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Abia Gov Otti Says 20% of State Budget Allocated to Education

Abia State governor, Alex Otti, has pledged full support for the Methodist Church of Nigeria as it prepares to establish a University in Umuimenyi, Bende Local Government Area.

Otti, in a statement yesterday, said he received the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr Oliver Abah, alongside a delegation of Archbishops and Bishops. He described the initiative as a monumental step for Abia State and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing education.

“Yesterday I had the honour of receiving the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr Oliver Abah, alongside a distinguished delegation of Archbishops and Bishops,” Otti said. “The Methodist Church of Nigeria is set to establish a University in Umuimenyi, Bende LGA. This is a monumental step for Abia State, and I assured the delegation of our full support for this transformative initiative.”

The governor highlighted that education remains a cornerstone of his administration, noting that since assuming office, 20 per cent of the state’s budget has been consistently allocated to education. He added that the government is making major investments in revitalising Abia State University and other institutions across the state.

To support the Methodist University project, Otti revealed that construction of a road leading to the proposed site has already commenced. He also confirmed that efforts are ongoing to resolve land-related concerns that may hinder the project.

“The Methodist Church has a rich legacy in education and healthcare, and we embrace this collaboration as a defining moment in our shared pursuit of academic excellence,” Otti stated.

FG Moves to Provide Affordable and Clean Energy

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FG Moves to Provide Affordable and Clean Energy

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has said the Ministry, through the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), is committed to providing Nigerians with clean, reliable, and affordable energy while driving innovation, industrial growth, job creation, and environmental stewardship.

He made this known in Abuja during the inauguration of the National Committee on Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency, Innovation and Certification (NCREEIC), domiciled in the Energy Commission of Nigeria, alongside the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with High Voltage 101 Limited.

According to Nnaji, “the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with key drivers and partners and the formal establishment of the National Committee on Renewable Energy, Efficiency, Innovation and Certification is now charting a bold new course in Africa’s energy transition for socio-economic development of the country in line with the Renew Hope Agenda of the present Administration.”

The Minister explained that the Ministry has invited relevant Ministries to nominate members for the inter-ministerial initiative, designed to reflect the strength of government working together with industry and society. He urged the committee to focus on four major areas which include innovation and research, collaboration, local content development, and certification and standards.

Speaking at the event, the Director of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, highlighted progress in institutional frameworks that support the development, coordination, and implementation of energy efficiency initiatives in sectors such as industry, buildings, appliances, and transportation.

He stated that “the ECN has also established the National Centre for Energy Efficiency and Conservation (NCEECI) hosted at the University of Lagos where research activities and appliance testing are conducted.”

The Managing Director of High Voltage 101 Limited, Hon. Chijioke NwaDavid, commended the initiative, describing it as a transformational step. He said, “this is a bold move in Nigeria’s pursuit of energy sustainability, innovation, and building of the economy.”

NADF to Fund FG-Brazil MoUs on Agriculture and Livestock Development

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NADF to Fund FG-Brazil MoUs on Agriculture and Livestock Development

The Nigeria Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) Executive Secretary, Mohammed Ibrahim, joined the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, and the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha, in Brazil to push forward agricultural development initiatives for Nigeria.

The visit took place during President Bola Tinubu’s recent state visit to Brazil, where discussions were held with Brazil’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock.

According to officials, the talks resulted in an agreement to establish a joint working committee that will oversee the implementation of two memoranda of understanding signed between Nigeria’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security and Brazil’s Ministry of Livestock Development.

Mohammed Ibrahim stated that the Nigeria Agricultural Development Fund will provide the needed funding support for the implementation of the agreements.

The signed MOUs are designed to enhance food security, boost agricultural productivity, and drive economic growth across Nigeria.

Lagos Govt pushes data-driven farming to tackle antimicrobial resistance

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Lagos Govt pushes data-driven farming to tackle antimicrobial resistance

Lagos State has restated its commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector through the adoption of data-driven farming practices and tackling the threat of Antimicrobial Resistance.

This was made known on Wednesday at the stakeholders’ meeting organised by Rid Labs, tagged “All Farmers Business Meeting (AFBM 2.0),” held at the Golden Kharis Event Centre, Ikorodu.

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, Emmanuel Audu, commended the organisers for creating a platform where farmers, agripreneurs, scientists, regulators, and investors can come together to exchange knowledge and explore innovative solutions for growth in agriculture.

Audu, who was represented by the Deputy Director, Fisheries Department, Olorunfemi Oniyide, spoke on the theme “Numbers Don’t Lie: Turning Farm Data into Profits.” He noted that the future of agriculture depends on facts, figures, and analytics rather than guesswork. According to him, using accurate data reduces losses, improves productivity, strengthens agribusinesses, and secures greater profitability for farmers.

Highlighting the challenge of Antimicrobial Resistance in agriculture, Audu cautioned against the indiscriminate use of antibiotics in livestock and aquaculture. He explained that the effects, which include rising mortality in poultry and fish, failed treatments, and increased production costs, threaten both the economy and public health.

He assured participants that the Ministry is committed to encouraging proper diagnosis and responsible use of veterinary medicines. He added that the government will continue to drive continuous capacity building for farmers and professionals while developing policies that safeguard farm profitability and protect public health.

Reiterating the government’s support for farmers, he said Lagos State would continue to strengthen food systems, drive agricultural innovation, and ensure food security for residents. He urged stakeholders to ensure that the knowledge shared during the meeting is translated into practical outcomes that benefit farmers, the economy, and the nation.

Also speaking, the Chief Executive and Business Head of Rid Lab, Femi Dairo, said the organisation is focused on addressing the challenge of indiscriminate drug use in livestock by promoting diagnosis before treatment. He explained that many farmers rely on guesswork or inaccurate data when treating their animals, which often leads to the wrong use of drugs without proper tests.

He warned that this practice worsens animal diseases, increases losses, wastes resources, and contributes to antimicrobial resistance. In his words, “Rid Lab is working to change this culture by showing farmers that science-driven farming is not a burden, but the gateway to profitability and sustainability. If profit alone were the objective, Rid Lab would simply provide quick drug solutions without demanding proper tests. Instead, the laboratory chose the more difficult but rewarding path of accurate diagnosis. By removing guesswork and relying on scientific data, farmers can protect their animals, reduce unnecessary drug use, preserve the potency of antibiotics, and achieve measurable results.”

He added that farms that abandoned guesswork in favour of evidence-based treatment recorded higher survival rates for their livestock and greater returns on investment. Dairo stressed that with accurate data guiding treatment, the livestock industry can reduce waste, improve productivity, and ensure sustainability in the long term.

He assured the stakeholders that Rid Lab would continue to provide accurate diagnoses for farmers, scientific evidence for regulators, and sustainable solutions for agribusiness stakeholders. According to him, these measures are aimed at securing a profitable livestock sector and safeguarding public health.

In her remarks, the Managing Director of Rid Lab, Adewunmi Dairo, explained that the theme “Numbers Don’t Lie: Turning Farm Data into Profit” highlights the future of agriculture, where decisions must be guided by facts and evidence instead of assumptions. She noted that data is more than figures on paper, describing it as a tool that helps farmers achieve sustainability, growth, and profitability.

She acknowledged the support of government, regulators, partners in the pharmaceutical industry, sponsors, and industry associations, saying their policies and innovations are vital to food safety, public health, and the overall progress of the farming community.

She further said that AFBM 2.0 represents a movement that proves farming is not guesswork but a serious business. With data as power in the hands of farmers, she said the agricultural sector can achieve food security, guarantee profitability, and build prosperity for all stakeholders.

The meeting was attended by livestock farmers and other important players in the agricultural industry who discussed strategies to boost agribusiness and ensure a sustainable farming future in Lagos State.

FG Recruits and Trains NYSC Emergency Volunteers

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FG Recruits and Trains NYSC Emergency Volunteers

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Ado-Ekiti Operations Office, has carried out a training session for the NYSC/EMV Community Development Service (CDS) group in Ikole-Ekiti, Ekiti State, on 28th August 2025. The recruitment and training exercise aimed to improve the preparedness of Emergency Management Vanguards (EMVs) in responding to emergencies across local communities.

During the training, key concepts in disaster management were explained to the corps members. According to the organisers, the session was designed to highlight their responsibilities as EMVs and enhance their preparedness capabilities in handling disaster response scenarios.

The training featured a detailed presentation titled “Disaster Management in Nigeria and the Role of NYSC EMVs.” The presentation covered the evolution of disaster management in Nigeria, disaster risk reduction strategies, emergency response strategies, and the significance of NYSC EMVs in strengthening disaster management efforts in local governments across the country.

Following the lecture, the corps members took part in a practical demonstration on First Aid and casualty handling. This aspect of the training provided hands-on experience for the EMVs, equipping them with essential life-saving skills needed during emergencies.

Speaking after the exercise, officials noted that “the session was highly interactive and informative, reinforcing the critical role of disaster management and volunteerism in National Emergency Preparedness and Response efforts.”

The event ended with a group photograph involving members of the EMV CDS group, staff of NEMA, and officials of Ekiti State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), capturing the collaboration between institutions in building capacity for disaster management in Nigeria.

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