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FG Urges Entrepreneurs to Embrace Privacy Compliance

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FG Urges Entrepreneurs to Embrace Privacy Compliance

The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr Vincent Olatunji, was the guest speaker at the bi-monthly Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Employability webinar organised by the Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation of the University of Ibadan.

Speaking on the theme, “Data Resources and Protection for Inclusive Entrepreneurship Development in Nigeria,” Dr Olatunji pointed out the increasing global shift of entrepreneurs towards digital technologies and the importance of data in business growth. He explained that data has become a crucial resource for entrepreneurs, adding that “5 of Africa’s 7 unicorn startups are Nigerian,” a development that underscores the country’s strong position in the fast-growing digital and technology ecosystem.

The NDPC chief stressed the need for young entrepreneurs in Nigeria to understand how innovation, entrepreneurship, and digital services are closely tied to privacy concerns. He educated participants on legal methods for data collection and processing, and also spoke about the safe and efficient cross-border transfer of data.

Highlighting the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDP Act, 2023), Dr Olatunji explained the practical benefits of compliance for businesses. According to him, “entrepreneurs who follow data protection laws not only build trust but also secure wider opportunities,” while warning that non-compliance could attract serious consequences.

He further outlined business opportunities that exist in the data protection ecosystem, pointing to the growing prospects within Nigeria’s digital sector. During the interactive session, he answered participants’ questions before urging entrepreneurs to “prioritise data protection and privacy as they innovate responsibly.”

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Ogun State allocates 130 hectares to FG for Port Terminal project

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Ogun State allocates 130 hectares to FG for Port Terminal project

Ogun State Government has approved the release of 130 hectares of land along the Epe/Mojoda expressway in Ijebu Ode to the Federal Government for the proposed Ijebu Ode Port Terminal Project.

The development followed a formal request by the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Gboyega Oyetola, in a letter addressed to Governor Dapo Abiodun, CON, dated June 26, 2025.

Analysts have described the project as a major step that will boost national trade, economic growth, and development. They noted that the port will ease the congestion around the Lagos port system, increase the nation’s GDP, and strengthen the Ogun State industrial hub initiative currently being pursued by the administration.

The facility is expected to serve as a cargo consolidation and distribution hub for the South-West region. It will also enhance competitiveness, facilitate trade in Ogun State, and promote serenity by adding aesthetic value to the immediate neighbourhood.

The dry port, which is planned to be linked to the Lekki Deep Sea Port by a rail system, is also expected to connect the proposed Kajola and Moniya Ibadan Dry Ports as well as the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport to the same rail network.

According to stakeholders, the siting of the port within the Economic Development Cluster of Ijebu Ode will enhance the competitiveness of the cluster through an efficient logistics and transportation system. It will also reduce production costs and further attract industrial investments.

Governor Abiodun, while speaking on the approval, said: “The Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port and the Gateway International Airport are critical enablers of industrialization and regional competitiveness. Together, they will transform Ogun State into a logistics and economic powerhouse, creating prosperity for our people and opportunities for Nigeria at large.”

With the Kajola Inland Dry Port already secured for the Ogun Central Industrial Cluster and now the Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Port for the Eastern corridor, Ogun State is balancing industrial growth across its three Senatorial Districts to ensure equity and sustainable development.

It will be recalled that in January 2025, President Bola Tinubu approved the establishment and development of Inland Dry Ports in Ijebu-Ode and Moniya in Ogun and Oyo States respectively. This was part of his effort to reduce congestion within Lagos seaports, eliminate chronic delays, and boost the national economy.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Oyetola, disclosed this earlier in Abuja during the 2025 Budget Defence before the Joint Committee of the Senate on Marine Transport and House of Representatives Committees on Ports and Harbour, Maritime Safety, Education and Administration, Inland Waterways and Shipping Services.

He explained that when completed, the Inland Dry Ports will generate jobs for youths in Ogun and Oyo States as well as other parts of the South-West. Oyetola also said the projects were targeted for fast-tracked delivery to decongest the Western Port System. According to him, design consultancies for the projects are already ongoing.

The Minister further highlighted key challenges facing the maritime sector, including infrastructure decay, silted river courses, inadequate fish production, and shortage of river crafts. He stressed that these deficiencies require urgent attention.

His words: “I feel greatly honoured to address the Joint Committee of the Senate on Marine Transport and House Committees on Ports and Harbour, Marine Safety, Education and Administration: Inland Waterways and Committee on Shipping Services on the occasion of 2025 Budget Defence.”

Oyetola added that the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is initiating several projects and programmes to address the challenges and ensure sustainable growth in the maritime sector.

FG launches NEXTGEN RESCO Program to train 131 graduates

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FG launches NEXTGEN RESCO Program to train 131 graduates

The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced the NEXTGEN RESCO Program to equip young graduates with industry skills and secure talented individuals in the fast-growing clean energy sector. The initiative was launched by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) in collaboration with the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN) and the Ecological Innovation Empowerment Initiative (EIEI).

According to the REA, the program is aimed at addressing the skills gap in Nigeria’s renewable energy industry while preparing young professionals to play key roles in the sector. “The NEXTGEN RESCO Program is designed to equip graduates with expertise and ensure that the country builds a strong workforce for its clean energy future,” the agency said.

A total of 131 young graduates, evenly split between male and female participants, have been welcomed into the one-year training. The participants will gain valuable insights from industry experts and work closely with stakeholders across the renewable energy sector.

The program also highlights the role of public-private collaboration in building Nigeria’s energy future. Through partnerships with Renewable Energy Service Companies, the 2025 cohort will have opportunities to take up active positions in private sector organisations. This ensures that the skills and knowledge gained during the 12-month training are effectively put to use.

The REA explained that the support of private companies is vital in bridging the employment gap in renewable energy. “With the NEXTGEN RESCO Program, we are not only preparing graduates for jobs but also securing Nigeria’s clean energy future,” the agency stated.

The initiative comes at a time when renewable energy and solar power solutions are gaining increasing attention as part of Nigeria’s sustainable development agenda.

FG UBEC to Boost Basic Education in Lagos

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FG UBEC to Boost Basic Education in Lagos

Aisha Garba, Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with Lagos State in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking after a meeting with the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, she highlighted Lagos as a model for inclusive education in Nigeria. According to her, “Lagos has structures that ensure children with special learning needs are not left behind.” She explained that the State’s partnership with the private sector in expanding access to education should be replicated in other states to address out-of-school challenges.

Garba also visited the UBEC-funded Smart School in Badagry, which has the capacity to host over 1,000 students and is equipped with modern ICT facilities. She stressed the importance of sustained support, saying, “We agreed on the need for security, teacher recruitment, and student transportation so that the school can serve its full purpose.”

She noted that UBEC will continue to partner with Lagos and other states to scale successful models and ensure every Nigerian child has access to quality education. Her remarks also emphasized the role of ICT in modern learning and the potential of smart schools in bridging educational gaps across Nigeria.

Expressing appreciation to the Lagos State Government, Garba said, “I sincerely appreciate Dr. Obafemi Hamzat for his warm reception and the State’s continued collaboration with UBEC in advancing the future of education.”

The meeting marks another step in efforts to improve inclusive learning, reduce the number of out-of-school children, and strengthen public-private partnerships in the education sector.

FG NOA releases state winners list for National Campus Debate 2.0

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FG NOA releases state winners list for National Campus Debate 2.0

The National Orientation Agency has released the official list of state winners for the National Campus Debate 2.0. The competition, which is aimed at strengthening youth engagement and promoting education, is moving into its next phase with zonal face-to-face debates scheduled to hold from 15th to 22nd September 2025 across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.

According to the agency, the final stage of the debate will come with significant rewards. The national winner will receive ₦50 million, second place will go home with ₦30 million, while third place will earn ₦20 million. These prizes are expected to encourage creativity, leadership, and teamwork among Nigerian students.

In a statement, an NOA spokesperson explained, “The National Campus Debate is designed to inspire young Nigerians and give them a platform to contribute to national conversations. We are proud of the students who have reached this stage and look forward to a competitive zonal round.” The initiative has also been praised for creating opportunities that can support youth development, public speaking, and academic excellence.

The agency released the full list of first-place winners at the state level who have qualified for the zonal debates.

A. North Central
i. Benue – University of Mkar, Mkar, Gboko LGA
ii. Kogi – Federal University, Lokoja
iii. Kwara – Al-Hikma University, Ilorin
iv. Plateau – National Film Institute, Jos
v. Niger – Federal University of Technology, Minna
vi. Nasarawa – Isa Mustapha Agwai I Polytechnic, Lafia
vii. FCT – Nile University, Abuja

B. North East
i. Adamawa – Modibbo Adama University, Yola
ii. Bauchi – Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi
iii. Borno – University of Maiduguri
iv. Gombe – Gombe State University (GSU)
v. Taraba – Federal University, Wukari
vi. Yobe – Yobe State University, Damaturu

C. North West
i. Jigawa – Federal University, Dutse
ii. Kaduna – Airforce Institution of Technology, Kaduna
iii. Kano – Baba Ahmad University, Kano
iv. Katsina – Isa Kaita College of Education, Dutsinma (IKCE)
v. Kebbi – Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru
vi. Sokoto – Umaru Ali Shinkafi Polytechnic, Sokoto
vii. Zamfara – Huda University, Gusau

D. South East
i. Abia – Nigerian British University, Aba
ii. Anambra – Shanahan University, Onitsha
iii. Enugu – Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu
iv. Ebonyi – School of Nursing & Midwifery, Alex Ekwueme Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki
v. Imo – Federal University of Technology, Owerri

E. South South
i. Edo – Benson Idahosa University
ii. Delta – Sports University of Nigeria, Idumuje-Ugboko
iii. Cross River – College of Nursing Sciences, Moore Road, Calabar
iv. Rivers – Ignatius Ajuru University of Education (IAUE)
v. Bayelsa – Nigerian Law School, Agudama
vi. Akwa Ibom – University of Uyo

F. South West
i. Oyo – Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomosho
ii. Ekiti – Federal University, Oye Ekiti
iii. Osun – Osun State College of Education, Ila-Orangun
iv. Ogun – Mountain Top University, Mowe
v. Ondo – University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo
vi. Lagos – Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo

TVET Sends Emails to Trainees to Upload Proof of Learning Documents

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TVET Sends Emails to Trainees to Upload Proof of Learning Documents

August 29, 2025 – The Federal Ministry of Education (FME) has announced an important update for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) trainee applicants to upload their certificates.

TVET trainees have started receiving emails instructing them to upload their proof of prior learning documents.

Note that this is not a shortlist but a step in the application process that requires candidates to submit their certificates.

Applicants are strongly advised to check their email inbox. According to the notice, TVET is sending notifications with the subject line “TVET Application: Action Required.”

The body of the message reads, “Hello, Thank you for applying for a TVET programme. In order to continue processing your application, please reupload your proof of prior learning using the link below: https://tvet.education.gov.ng/upload-document Regards, TVET team.”

The email also displays the candidate’s registered skill, such as Network System Installation, along with a unique four-digit Application ID, e.g., 7816.

Applicants who receive this message must upload their Proof of Prior Learning documents. Accepted documents include Certificate, Diploma, or Transcript. The notice states that only PDF, JPG, or PNG formats are accepted, with a maximum file size of 10MB.

How to upload TVET proof of learning:

1. Click on the upload link in your email (it is a unique link that contains a string of the candidate’s application ID)

2. Choose a Proof of Prior Learning Document from your device

3. Click on Upload Document

4. If it shows Upload Successful, congrats, you have successfully uploaded your TVET document for the registration.

That’s all. This process is part of ensuring proper verification for TVET trainee applications, and all candidates are urged to follow the instructions carefully.

Lagos State Trains 100 Farmers and Agro-Exporters

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Lagos State Trains 100 Farmers and Agro-Exporters

Lagos State Agricultural Development Authority (LSADA), through its Rural Institution Development Component, has trained about 100 farmers and prospective agro-exporters on agricultural exportation and market opportunities.

The one-day sensitisation workshop, themed “Unlocking Agricultural Products’ Potential for Exports,” took place at the LCCI Conference and Training Centre, Alausa, Ikeja, on Tuesday. The programme focused on export readiness, quality assurance, international market standards, and available government support for businesses seeking to enter global markets.

Speaking at the event, the Coordinating Director of LSADA, Mrs. Aderonke Toju-Tubi, represented by Mr. Yunusa Babatunde Yussuf, Director of Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation, stressed the importance of preparing local farmers for global competitiveness. She noted that Nigerian agropreneurs have vast export opportunities as the government prioritises economic diversification beyond oil.

“The objective of this programme is to educate participants on how to adopt the latest technologies, explore key platforms, and comply with rules and policies that govern agricultural exports,” she explained. “It also seeks to build their capacity to meet international standards, collaborate with global agro-exporters, and improve product quality.”

Mrs. Toju-Tubi further explained that the Lagos State government recognises the role of private sector engagement, especially agro-exporters, as key to providing agricultural business opportunities for farmers and fisherfolk in the state.

The facilitator, Mr. Caleb Afuwape, guided participants on critical subjects including export regulations, marketing strategies, product development, and standardisation. He highlighted the economic value of agro-exporting, pointing out its role in earning foreign exchange, offering recession-proof business opportunities, and enabling Nigerian farmers to benefit from free trade agreements.

The training underscored the commitment of LSADA to strengthen agriculture as a driver of sustainable economic growth while creating access to global agricultural markets.

Delta Gov urges Brazilian investors to tap opportunities in trade, agriculture

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Delta Gov urges Brazilian investors to tap opportunities in trade, agriculture

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has called on the Brazilian business community to take advantage of the wide investment opportunities available in Delta State, describing it as Nigeria’s hub for trade, agriculture, energy, and industrial development.

Speaking yesterday in São Paulo at the Delta State-Focused Business and Investment Roundtable, the Governor highlighted the state’s fertile land, long coastline, four seaports, airports, and expanding road networks that link directly to major Nigerian markets. He said, “Delta State was recognised in 2024 as Nigeria’s safest state for oil and gas investment.”

Oborevwori stressed that Delta remains Nigeria’s leading producer of crude oil and holds the country’s largest natural gas reserves, with major export terminals in Escravos and Forcados.

He further pointed to opportunities beyond oil and gas, mentioning cassava, palm produce, rice, aquaculture, livestock, and solid minerals such as kaolin, silica, coal, and iron ore.

The Governor also outlined ongoing reforms, including tax harmonisation, the establishment of free trade zones in Koko and Kwale, and legislation aimed at making the business environment friendlier for investors.

According to him, flagship projects like the 180-hectare Agro-Industrial Park, decentralized mini-grids, and new public-private partnership models in housing and manufacturing are already boosting industrialisation and creating new openings for international investors.

Expressing interest in deepening agricultural ties, Oborevwori said Delta is keen to learn from Brazil’s ranching expertise. He noted, “We are eager to build sustainable partnerships that will accelerate growth and development across critical sectors.”

FG, NEITI Back NNPC Reforms as Ojulari Targets $60bn Oil and Gas Investments

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FG, NEITI Back NNPC Reforms as Ojulari Targets $60bn Oil and Gas Investments

The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, has expressed confidence in the leadership of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd., under the Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari. He said the management has the capacity to deliver on ongoing reforms in the company and to set new benchmarks for corporate governance across Africa’s extractive industry.

Dr. Orji made this known during a courtesy call on the NNPC Management at the NNPC Towers in Abuja on Thursday. He commended the vision of the new NNPC leadership, explaining that their assumption into office comes at a defining moment for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. According to him, reforms, renewed investor confidence, and expanded indigenous participation are reshaping the country’s extractive sector.

He encouraged NNPC Ltd. to position itself as a model of transparency, accountability, efficiency, and civic engagement, adding that these values remain vital for restoring public trust and safeguarding the company as Nigeria’s most valuable national asset.

Responding, the GCEO, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, assured that NNPC Ltd. will continue its collaboration with NEITI in advancing openness and corporate governance in line with global transparency and accountability standards.

He emphasized that the company has already reinstated the publication of monthly financial and operational reports and has strengthened internal reporting systems to ensure improved accountability.

“In terms of full compliance to NEITI principles and global EITI standards, you have my full commitment. We will look to your guidance as we deepen this. We are already doing a lot of internal transformation to deepen transparency in our operational reporting and performance reviews,” Ojulari said.

He added that the NNPC Ltd. would rely on NEITI’s global experience to provide feedback on performance reviews. On the forthcoming NEITI 2024 Oil and Gas Audit, Ojulari said the company is fully prepared to provide comprehensive data for both the 2024 and 2025 audits, while leveraging technology to guarantee efficiency and timeliness.

Ojulari also re-stated the mandate of President Bola Tinubu to the new NNPC Ltd. management team to ramp up oil and gas production and expand refining capacity. He explained that achieving these goals will require attracting at least 60 billion dollars in new investments.

He stressed that this can only be achieved through sustained reforms, stronger investor confidence, and solid partnerships with industry operators, government agencies, and accountability institutions such as NEITI.

Katsina Gov Radda Approves N500,000 Relief for Each Household

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Katsina Gov Radda Approves N500,000 Relief for Each Household

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, on Wednesday paid a condolence visit to Mantau Village in Malumfashi Local Government Area following a recent bandit attack that claimed the lives of innocent worshippers during prayers.

During the visit, Governor Radda expressed deep sympathy to the grieving families and assured them of his government’s commitment to restoring peace and security. “Our administration will continue to work with the Federal Government for the deployment of a military battalion to Malumfashi and neighboring areas to enhance security,” he said.

To support the affected community, the governor announced a series of development projects. These include the construction of a modern school and hospital, the complete renovation of the mosque and houses damaged in the attack, and the rehabilitation of access roads to improve emergency response and security operations.

Governor Radda also revealed that each affected household will receive an immediate relief package of ₦500,000 to help them recover. “We will not only provide financial support but also ensure that development initiatives bring lasting change to this community,” he stated.

He assured the residents of Mantau Village and the entire Katsina State of his administration’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace, promoting security, and ensuring long-term stability across the state.

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