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VCDP empowers 18,000 rice and cassava farmers in Ogun State

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VCDP empowers 18,000 rice and cassava farmers in Ogun State

The Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP) has announced that no fewer than 18,000 rice and cassava farmers in Ogun State have benefited from its intervention.

The disclosure was made by the acting programme coordinator, Abiola Sobunkola, on Wednesday during an inspection tour of project sites in Ijebu North East, Odeda, and Yewa North Local Government Areas.

The VCDP initiative is a federal government programme funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) in collaboration with the Ogun State government and farmers’ organisations. It is designed to support smallholder farmers in the rice and cassava value chains, enhancing productivity to promote food security and economic growth.

According to Sobunkola, the inspection was part of efforts to strengthen agricultural value chains across the state. She explained that the tour also aimed to ensure that the facilities provided for farmers were properly maintained and used to their maximum potential.

She added that the programme was structured to boost rice and cassava farming productivity while strengthening every stage of the value chain. Sobunkola noted that support from IFAD and VCDP had helped reduce farmers’ production costs significantly while also improving the availability of food in the state.

The Chairman of Ijebu North East Local Government Area, Foluso Badejo, praised the impact of the programme on local farmers. He described it as a major boost to agricultural development and thanked Governor Dapo Abiodun for his role in promoting food security through partnerships like VCDP.

“The collaboration with VCDP has been very impactful, and we ensure that the facilities provided are put to good use,” Badejo stated.

One of the beneficiaries, Timothy Eweoba, a cassava farmer from Ayetoro in Yewa North, said the intervention had transformed their operations. “We used to process Garri manually, which was stressful and time-consuming, but with the factory provided by VCDP, our processing capacity has greatly improved,” he said.

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ActionAid Nigeria launches Renewed Women’s Voice and Leadership Project

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ActionAid Nigeria launches Renewed Women’s Voice and Leadership Project

ActionAid Nigeria has officially launched the Renewed Women’s Voice and Leadership (RWVL) Project in the country, describing it as a major step towards advancing gender equality and women’s rights. The organisation said the initiative is designed to strengthen women’s participation, amplify their voices, and promote inclusive leadership in building a just and equal society.

“The wait is finally over! Today, we proudly unveil the Renewed Women’s Voice and Leadership (RWVL) Project in Nigeria,” ActionAid Nigeria announced.

According to the group, the launch signals a new chapter in women’s empowerment, with a focus on intersectionality, accountability, and sustainable change. It emphasised that the project will create opportunities for women to lead and influence decision-making processes across different sectors.

“We invite you to stand with us. Raise your voice, share our message, and be part of the movement to accelerate action for gender equality,” the statement added.

UBE Model Smart School Yola sets 2025/2026 entrance exam schedule

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UBE Model Smart School Yola sets 2025/2026 entrance exam schedule

The UBE Model Smart School, Yola has announced the schedule for its Entrance Examination for the 2025/2026 Academic Session. According to the school management, the exercise will take place on Saturday, 6th September, 2025 at the school premises beginning at 8:00 AM prompt.

The announcement stated:
a. Junior Secondary (JSS): Computer-Based Test (CBT)
b. Primary Section: Paper-Based Examination
c. ECCD Section: Oral Examination
d. Date: Saturday, 6th September, 2025
e. Venue: UBE Model Smart School, Yola
f. Time: 8:00 AM Prompt

“All candidates, parents, and guardians are kindly advised to take note of this schedule and ensure punctuality,” the statement read. It further urged candidates to arrive early and come fully prepared, noting that the Screening Committee will be present to ensure a smooth, transparent, and hitch-free exercise.

FG to Implement National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill

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FG to Implement National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill

The National Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), Dr Vincent Olatunji, joined senior government officials, industry stakeholders, private sector representatives, and academics at the stakeholder engagement on the National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill held in Abuja.

The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr ’Bosun Tijani, was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Rafiu Adeladan, who delivered the keynote address. Goodwill messages were also delivered by heads of parastatals under the Ministry.

In his goodwill message, Dr Olatunji stressed the importance of Nigeria’s digital ecosystem and explained the Bill’s role in driving national progress. He encouraged all participants to share their contributions during the sessions.

“A co-creative approach is essential to ensure the Bill’s success and foster inclusive digital development in Nigeria,” he said. He also noted that the Bill should align with the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDP Act, 2023) to guarantee the security of the country’s digital ecosystem and strengthen data privacy.

The National Digital Economy and e-Governance Bill is aimed at guiding Nigeria’s digital economy while creating a governance framework. It addresses emerging technologies, digital infrastructure, and literacy, and is also expected to support innovation.

According to officials, the Bill will enable government records to move from paper-based systems to electronic platforms. This transition will promote full digital transformation across multiple sectors and improve efficiency in public service delivery while advancing national digital development.

Among the dignitaries at the engagement were the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency, Mr Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Galaxy Backbone, Professor Ibrahim Adeyanju, the Post-Master General of the Federation, Engineer Tola Odeyemi, and the Executive Secretary of the Universal Service Provision Fund, Mr Yomi Arowosafe, alongside other stakeholders.

Bauchi youths to benefit from new vocational and entrepreneurship partnership

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Bauchi youths to benefit from new vocational and entrepreneurship partnership

The Office of the Special Adviser on Youth and Entrepreneurship, Bauchi State Government, has received a courtesy visit from the UUJ Vocational Educational Center, led by Usman Umar Jahun, alongside the League of Youth Awareness for Self-Reliant Initiative, headed by its Chairman, Aliyu Ahmad Daguma.

The meeting focused on areas of partnership aimed at driving youth empowerment and promoting entrepreneurship in Bauchi State.

During the visit, the organisations shared their commitment to supporting government initiatives that target young people. The UUJ Vocational Educational Center, which has built a reputation for delivering vocational training and skills acquisition programmes, presented its ongoing efforts in equipping youth with practical skills.

The centre has also partnered with Engr. Shamsuddeen Bala Mohammed, also known as Dangaladiman Duguri, to implement the Dangaladiman Duguri Vocational and Skills Acquisition Program. This project is designed to strengthen the capacity of young people to adapt to opportunities in the changing job market.

Speaking at the meeting, Hon. Mohammed Atiku Isah, Special Adviser on Youth and Entrepreneurship, expressed his delight at the prospect of working closely with the visiting organisations.

“We are enthusiastic about this partnership because it will create more opportunities for young people in Bauchi State. By joining forces, we can scale up youth development and expand entrepreneurship programmes across the state,” he said.

Usman Umar Jahun emphasised that the centre is dedicated to ensuring young people acquire the right skills for economic independence, while Aliyu Ahmad Daguma stressed that the League of Youth Awareness for Self-Reliant Initiative is determined to support programmes that reduce unemployment and promote entrepreneurship.

The meeting ended with a commitment to pursue joint initiatives that will support youth empowerment and economic growth in Bauchi State.

Abia State introduces teacher training, adult literacy programs

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Abia State introduces teacher training, adult literacy programs

August 28, 2025 – Abia State has continued to record new progress in the education sector as top officials of the government highlighted fresh initiatives during a radio programme on 99.9 Love FM, Umuahia.

The Director-General of the Abia State Orientation Agency, Ure Abazie, was joined by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Kalu Uchechukwu, and the Director of Mass Literacy, Mrs. Arisa Chinyere, to discuss ongoing developments under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti, OFR.

Speaking on the programme, Abazie said, “Governor Otti is an education-friendly leader who firmly believes that education is not a privilege, but a right that every citizen must enjoy.”

She further encouraged residents, particularly adults who missed out on formal schooling, to take advantage of the government’s free Mass Adult Literacy Program. Abazie also appealed to Ndi-Abia to protect public properties, drive safely, and stop acts of vandalism, including the destruction of newly planted trees in urban areas.

During the broadcast, Mrs. Kalu Uchechukwu revealed that the state government is currently training more than 5,000 newly employed teachers.

The induction and training exercise is taking place at the Federal Government Girls College, Umuahia and Abayi Girls School, Aba. According to her, the teachers are undergoing a 12-day intensive programme that will be followed by an examination to test their readiness for classroom delivery.

“To support their participation, each teacher has been given a ₦25,000 transport allowance,” she stated. Uchechukwu also reminded private schools in Abia to complete their registration with the government on or before September 12, 2025.

She explained that the registration drive is aimed at effective planning and not taxation. She added that schools across the state are expected to officially resume on September 22, 2025, with the new teachers posted close to their homes to improve efficiency.

On her part, Mrs. Arisa Chinyere spoke on the Accelerated Basic Education Program, which is designed for learners aged 15 years and above. The programme, which is being executed in partnership with ASUBEB, the Federal Ministry of Education, and UNICEF, is set to begin soon, with facilitators already receiving training.

She noted that Governor Otti has shown strong political will by ensuring that facilitators are paid promptly, unlike in the past when payments were delayed. She urged residents across the 17 local government areas to embrace the Mass Adult Literacy Program, which equips adults with reading, writing, and vocational skills required to thrive in today’s economy.

Chinyere concluded by stressing that Abia is on a path of transformation with education placed at the centre of growth, while calling on Ndi-Abia to spread the word and take full advantage of the opportunities provided.

Apply: BSUTH CMD essay writing competition (N500,000 cash)

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Apply: BSUTH CMD essay writing competition (N500,000 cash)

August 28, 2025 – The Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), Makurdi, has unveiled the Chief Medical Director’s Essay Writing Competition for undergraduate students in tertiary institutions across Benue State.

The contest will run from Monday, 1st September to Sunday, 14th September, 2025, with the topic: “Exploring Medical Tourism Potentials @BSUTH: Prospects and Challenges.”

According to the Central Planning Committee, the aim of the competition is to evaluate BSUTH’s medical tourism potentials, with a focus on economic growth, healthcare development, and international reputation. It also intends to highlight the challenges that must be addressed for the hospital to achieve its full potential.

Dr. Terungwa Stephen Hwande, the Chief Medical Director of BSUTH, will serve as Host, while His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Executive Governor of Benue State, will be the Chief Host at the grand finale scheduled for Monday, 22nd September, 2025. The event will feature the announcement of winners.

Prizes include:
1. N500,000 cash and a certificate for the winner
2. N300,000 for second place
3. N200,000 for third place
4. 7 consolation prizes of N50,000 each with certificates will be awarded

Eligibility:
Eligibility is open strictly to undergraduates from tertiary institutions in Benue State.

Submission Deadline is Sunday 14th September, 2025, at 11:59 PM

How to participate:
All essays should be submitted via email to bsuthessaycompetition@gmail.com with the subject: “BSUTH CMD’S UNDERGRADUATE ESSAY COMPETITION”.

Below is the guidelines:.
a. Word Count: Each essay should be between 750 1,200 words.
b. Format: Microsoft Word document (.docx) or PDF.
c. Font Style: Arial or Calibri, font size 12.
d. Line Spacing: Double-spaced.

Essays will be judged based on four criteria: Content (40%), Organization (20%), Language and style (20%), and Originality and creativity (20%).

The evaluation of submissions will take place from Monday 15th to Thursday 18th September, 2025, with feedback and invitation to the top 10 participants set for Friday, 19th September, 2025. A physical screening test will be conducted at the award venue on Saturday, 20th September, 2025, to verify participants’ abilities before the final announcement of results and presentation of prizes on Monday, 22nd September, 2025.

Edo State expands poultry production with 2,500 capacity facility

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Edo State expands poultry production with 2,500 capacity facility

The Edo State Government has commended the collaboration between Azura and Heifer International in facilitating a 2,500 poultry facility recently handed over to Osaro Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society located at Ihovbor Community in Uhunwonde Local Government Area of the State.

Speaking during the handing over ceremony, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Sunday Osayande, represented by the Director of Animal Husbandry Department, Mr. Enodolomwanyi Otamere, described the project as a major boost to agriculture in the state.

He noted that the facility, which has the capacity to produce 2,500 birds per day, complements the already existing Amo processing plant at Obayantor Community in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area with its 10,000 birds per day capacity.

Mr. Osayande appreciated the Edo State Government, Heifer International, and Amo Farms for their roles in driving agricultural development, stressing that the partnership which began in 2023 has contributed greatly to the growth of the state’s GDP. He said, “The success of this project is a factor in the Azura-Heifer partnership, and it shows the importance of collaboration in agricultural development.”

He further urged the host community and the companies involved to maintain peaceful coexistence, assuring that the Ministry of Agriculture will continue to provide support in terms of inputs and technical expertise to strengthen the project.

The Chief Financial Officer of Azura Power West Africa Ltd, Mrs. Nonye Abuibaku, explained that the initiative was part of Azura’s Corporate Social Responsibility, adding that it was a way of appreciating the host community for their continuous support. According to her, “The project is a reciprocated gesture to thank the people of Ihovbor for supporting Azura to thrive.”

Azura also provided key inputs which include a solar-powered borehole, 2,200 birds, and other resources to aid the smooth running of the poultry facility.

Meanwhile, a resident of Ihovbor Community, Mr. Kingsley Otasowie, expressed gratitude to the state government and partners, saying, “This initiative will foster development in the community and create opportunities for many people.”

The poultry project marks a milestone in Edo State’s agricultural development and highlights the role of public-private partnerships in boosting food security and economic growth.

FG NDE to Create Employment Opportunities in Katsina

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FG NDE to Create Employment Opportunities in Katsina

The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) Katsina State Office on Wednesday, 27th August 2025, hosted the Manager of the Incubation Center, Katsina State, Alhaji Nura Manzo. He was received by the State Coordinator, Hajiya Halima Isa Ingawa, alongside her management team.

The meeting began at 11:00 am with an opening prayer led by Alhaji Muhammad Sanda, Head of Department, Special Public Works (SPW). This was followed by self-introductions from members of both the NDE and the Incubation Center delegation.

In his address, Alhaji Nura Manzo gave a detailed briefing on the activities of the Incubation Center. He explained that the center shares a common goal with the NDE to reduce unemployment across Katsina State.

He stated that their mission goes beyond skill acquisition training, extending to nurturing individuals from the grassroots into successful business owners.

According to him, the Incubation Center identifies and trains talented people within the state to become producers of goods and services. He added that the center collaborates with key regulatory bodies including the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to ensure that trainees receive proper registration and certification.

Alhaji Nura Manzo called for stronger collaboration with the NDE, stressing that such partnerships align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmad Tinubu, and the Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umar Radda, PhD.

“We must work together to empower young people, create jobs, and support businesses that can grow the state’s economy,” he said. He also expressed gratitude to the NDE team for their hospitality.

In her response, the State Coordinator, Hajiya Halima Isa Ingawa, thanked the Incubation Center Manager and his delegation for the visit. She assured them that NDE is committed to collaborating in creating employment opportunities and reducing joblessness in Katsina State. She further pledged to pay a reciprocal visit to the Incubation Center.

The meeting ended with a closing prayer led by Malam Abukasim Ahmad.

Apply: PalmPay Hustle Grant (Free N500,000)

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Apply: PalmPay Hustle Grant (Free N500,000)

August 28, 2025 – PalmPay has opened applications for the PalmPay Hustle Grant, a new initiative that supports young entrepreneurs and small business owners across Nigeria.

The grant is designed to back what it calls “Nigeria’s real MVPs, the hustlers, the doers, the dream chasers.”

The programme will reward three entrepreneurs with N500,000 each to grow their businesses.

PalmPay explained that the support is meant to give winners the push needed to move their hustle to the next level. “Whether you’re running a small business, pushing a side hustle, or chasing a big dream, the PalmPay Hustle Grant is here to give you the boost you need,” the statement read.

Who can apply?
1. Bakers
2. Food vendors
3. Tailors
4. Traders
5. Online sellers
6. Creatives
7. Anyone chasing a dream

How to enter:

Create a 60-second video telling PalmPay:
i. Why you love PalmPay
ii. What your business is
iii. Why you need support
iv. How N500,000 will change everything for you

Applicants are required to post the video on Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter using the hashtag #PalmPayHustleGrant while tagging the official accounts:

Instagram: @palmpayapp_ng, Twitter: @palmpay_ng, TikTok: @palmpay_ng.

For Facebook entries, participants should comment their video under the pinned post on @palmpayapp.ng.

PalmPay stated that five entries will be shortlisted, after which the top three winners will be selected through public voting on its official social media channels. The first set of finalists will be picked by Thursday, September 11th.

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