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CRSMEDA begins verification for CRSG/SMEDAN-Sterling Bank loan

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CRSMEDA begins verification for CRSG/SMEDAN-Sterling Bank loan

The Cross River State Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency (CRSMEDA) has begun a loan verification exercise for prospective beneficiaries of the CRSG/SMEDAN-Sterling Bank loan facility.

The initiative, carried out in partnership with Sterling Bank, is designed to provide financial support for both start-up ventures and existing small businesses across the State.

According to the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of MEDA, Great Ogban, the exercise is an important step in the loan application process. He explained that the verification “aligns with standard loan process” and ensures transparency in selecting qualified beneficiaries.

The verification team is led by Barr. Ikpi Itam Okoi, Manager of Investment, Funding, and Credit, alongside Mr. Okon Ebi, Senior Investment, Funding, and Credit Officer.

The team will review the businesses of 1,520 applicants within a two-week period. As part of the process, applicants are encouraged to open personal savings accounts with Sterling Bank, which serves as the fund manager for the program.

CRSMEDA stated that small business owners in Cross River State can still take advantage of the opportunity by registering with the Cross River State Enterprise Development Center (CRS-EDC).

Interested entrepreneurs are required to attend a ten-day hands-on training session. On completion, participants will be awarded an EDC certificate, which is a mandatory requirement for loan qualification.

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Tinubu hails capital market growth, backs N300 trillion target

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Tinubu hails capital market growth, backs N300 trillion target

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the impressive performance of Nigeria’s capital market, highlighting the sector’s rapid growth since he assumed office over two years ago. He said the market’s rise in capitalisation and trading activities reflects increased investor confidence and expanding opportunities for Nigerians and international investors.

Speaking on Tuesday during his state visit to Brazil, where he received the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Board of Directors of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc, the President described the developments as proof of his administration’s economic reforms.

“Nigeria’s markets must be a trusted engine of enterprise and prosperity. My government will continue to pursue reforms that unlock capital, protect investors, and drive innovation, so that our economy works for every Nigerian,” President Tinubu said.

He commended the leadership of the SEC and the NGX Board for their dedication and reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s financial ecosystem.

According to him, ongoing dialogue is essential in meeting the Renewed Hope Agenda’s targets and in positioning Nigeria as Africa’s leading investment destination. The President also assured the delegation that his government will continue to support the capital market and carry out further reforms to enhance growth.

SEC Director-General, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, acknowledged the recent signing of the Investment and Securities Act (ISA) 2025, describing it as one of the most comprehensive legal frameworks for capital markets in Africa.

He stated that the Act is expected to push Nigeria toward a ₦300 trillion market while ensuring fair wealth distribution through investor protection and regulatory clarity.

NGX Group Chairman, Alhaji Umaru Kwairanga, also praised the President’s bold reforms, noting that both trading volumes and market values have nearly tripled under the current administration. He called for the fast-tracking of the listing of major state-owned enterprises, such as NNPC Limited, and urged the introduction of tax incentives to sustain growth. Kwairanga further invited the President to visit the NGX trading floor to recognise these achievements.

Temi Popoola, Group CEO of NGX Group, stressed the importance of positioning the Nigerian Exchange as a global investment hub. He pointed to the need for stronger partnerships, modernised market infrastructure, and deeper product innovation to attract foreign investment and expand digital access for retail investors. He added that encouraging retail investor participation would promote inclusive and sustainable market growth.

Nonso Okpala, Director of NGX Group Plc, applauded the reforms of the administration, noting that exchange rate stability and macroeconomic predictability under the Renewed Hope Agenda have helped drive growth.

He encouraged more Nigerian businesses to list on NGX, describing it as a pathway to democratising wealth and broadening participation in the capital market.

FG confirms winners, zonal schedule for 2025 National Campus Debate

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FG confirms winners, zonal schedule for 2025 National Campus Debate

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has announced the completion of the state-level stage of the 2025 National Campus Debate, a civic engagement initiative for students in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

According to the Agency, institutions from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory participated between May and July 2025, submitting debate video entries for assessment. After internal screening at the NOA Headquarters, one institution per state has been confirmed to represent their state at the next stage of the competition.

In a statement, the Agency commended students for what it described as their “intellectual rigour and creativity,” while also praising its State Directorates for “exemplary coordination” throughout the state-level exercise.

The competition now advances to the Zonal Face-to-Face Debates scheduled to hold from 15th to 22nd September 2025 across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones. First-place winners from each state will compete at this stage. The official theme for the debate is “Unity in Diversity: Defining National Identity in Nigeria’s Multicultural Society.”

The Grand Finale of the 2025 National Campus Debate is set to take place during Nigeria’s Independence Week in October 2025. The final stage, which will be held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, will serve as part of the 65th Independence Day celebrations. According to the NOA, zonal champions will face off in a televised final round that aims to showcase youth excellence and civic leadership.

Cash Prizes:
i. 1st Place (National Winner): ₦50 Million
ii. 2nd Place: ₦30 Million
iii. 3rd Place: ₦20 Million

The Agency also revealed that all zonal and national rounds will be livestreamed through NOA’s digital platforms and selected media partners. “We encourage the public, educational institutions, and civil society organisations to support and follow the competition,” the statement added.

This initiative is expected to promote civic education, national identity, and youth development while creating visibility through media coverage and online engagement.

Cross River Minister to Launch N500,000 MSMEs Support Program

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Cross River Minister to Launch N500,000 MSMEs Support Program

As part of a major effort to boost entrepreneurship and economic development in Cross River State, the Honourable Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh-JOE, will on Friday, August 29th, 2025, officially launch the “Owan-Enoh MSMEs Support Program.”

The program is designed to support micro, small, and medium enterprises by driving inclusive economic growth and encouraging innovation among entrepreneurs, especially women and youths.

According to the ministry, the initiative will open opportunities for eligible businesses and startups owned by Cross Riverians, as well as non-indigenes operating in the state, to access grants ranging from ₦100,000 to ₦500,000.

Speaking on the development, Senator Enoh stated, “Empowering local entrepreneurs is key to unlocking the vast industrial and commercial potential of Cross River. Through this program, we are providing direct financial support and empowerment materials to reduce barriers for small businesses, encourage job creation, and promote sustainable development in communities.”

The initiative comes at a time when many young business owners are seeking better access to funding, startup grants, and business loans to expand their ventures.

By creating this platform, the government aims to strengthen entrepreneurship, improve access to small business financing, and enhance opportunities for economic empowerment.

Entrepreneurs and startups are encouraged to prepare themselves to take advantage of this support scheme.

The ministry also confirmed that the application portal for the Owan-Enoh MSMEs Support Program will open soon. Detailed guidelines on eligibility, registration, and application procedures are expected to be released in the coming days.

Cross River CSC Shortlists Candidates for Ministry of Justice Interview

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Cross River CSC Shortlists Candidates for Ministry of Justice Interview

August 26, 2025 – The Government of Cross River State of Nigeria through the Cross River State Civil Service Commission (CSC) has released the official list of successful applicants for positions in the Cross River State Ministry of Justice.

According to the Commission, the names published belong to candidates who applied for different legal officer roles and successfully passed the written examination conducted on Saturday 2nd August, 2025.

In a statement issued by the Commission, it was noted that “the underlisted persons, who applied for various positions as legal officers through the Cross River State Civil Service Recruitment portal, were successful at the written examination.”

The announcement further confirmed that the next stage of the recruitment process will be an oral interview scheduled to take place at the conference room of the Cross River State Ministry of Justice.

The interview schedule is as follows:

1. Monday 2nd September, 2025
a. State Counsel II
b. State Counsel I

2. Tuesday 3rd September, 2025
a. Senior State Counsel I
b. Senior State Counsel II

3. Wednesday 4th September, 2025
a. Assistant Directors
b. Deputy Directors

The notice, signed by Sir Maurice Effiwatt, KSJI, JP+, Chairman of the Civil Service Commission, added that all candidates should endeavor to be at the conference room of the Cross River State Ministry of Justice by 10am on the days assigned to their respective cadres.

Attached below is the list of shortlisted/successful law officers:

Imo Raises Minimum Wage to N104,000, N222,000 for Lecturers Entry

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Imo Raises Minimum Wage to N104,000, N222,000 for Lecturers Entry

BREAKING NEWS: The Governor of Imo State has announced new wage adjustments aimed at improving workers’ welfare. According to the governor, “the minimum wage for civil servants has been increased to ₦104,000.”

He also revealed that “entry-level salary for lecturers is now set at ₦222,000.” In addition, the governor confirmed that the next batch of gratuity payments will commence tomorrow, stating that “our senior citizens who have served the state will begin receiving their payments without delay.”

FCC Ibadan Enrolls 1,000 Students for Malaria Competition

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FCC Ibadan Enrolls 1,000 Students for Malaria Competition

The Federal Cooperative College (FCC), Eleyele, in Ibadan, has declared full support for the Geneith Health Competition (GHC) by registering 1,000 students to participate in the nationwide campaign against malaria.

The GHC, introduced by Geneith Pharmaceuticals, comes with a N1 billion package in prizes, scholarships, and incentives aimed at driving awareness and prevention of malaria among young people in Nigeria.

Speaking during the unveiling of the initiative, the Provost of the College, Dr Ibrahim Abdull Ganiyu, described the competition as timely, noting that about 90 percent of students visiting the school clinic present with malaria symptoms.

He said the institution would also purchase 1,000 doses of anti-malaria drugs to help keep students healthy during the campaign.

“Malaria is a killer disease, and anything that supports its eradication is welcome. Our students are ready to take up the challenge and excel in this competition,” Dr Abdul Ganiyu stated.

The Head of the College Clinic, Mrs Sulaimon Rofiat Ambimbola, praised the project for combining awareness with practical solutions. According to her, “Sanitation, prevention, and awareness are key. If students are healthy, their education thrives. That is why we strongly align with this initiative.”

Student leaders at the College also pledged total support for the nationwide campaign. The President of the Students Union Government (SUG), Comrade Emmanuel Aluko, described the competition as a “life-changing opportunity” for young people. Similarly, the National President of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), Comrade Oyewumi Festus Ayomide, urged students nationwide to participate.

“Registration is not just about competing; it comes with education and access to treatment. Together, we can create a malaria-free generation,” Comrade Oyewumi said.

The lead promoter of the initiative, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, explained that the goal was to make students frontline ambassadors in the fight against malaria.

“Malaria is Nigeria’s deadliest enemy, causing economic deprivation and loss of lives. Through this competition, our goal is to see students become ambassadors for a malaria-free Nigeria,” he said.

Organizers added that the campaign also encourages young people to take the lead in sanitation and prevention, which they believe will significantly reduce malaria cases. Registration for the Geneith Health Competition is open until February 15, 2026.

Apply: Ibom-LED Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme EAP Batch 4

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Apply: Ibom-LED Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme EAP Batch 4

August 6, 2025 – The Ibom Leadership and Entrepreneurial Development (Ibom-LED) Centre has announced the launch of Batch 4 of its Entrepreneurship Accelerator Programme (EAP), a state-sponsored training aimed at empowering young business minds in Akwa Ibom.

This initiative is supported by the Akwa Ibom State Government.

According to Ibom-LED, the programme will equip selected participants from the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre and female youth groups with modern entrepreneurial skills, digital tools, and startup support.

“This is about preparing the next generation of entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses and contribute to the state’s growing economy,” the statement read.

The EAP is a transformative initiative designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with:
i. Learn how to build, launch, and grow a sustainable business.
ii. Understand the laws that govern business operations in Nigeria.
iii. Master budgeting, bookkeeping, and investment strategies.
iv. Build integrity-driven enterprises that stand the test of time.

Programme Highlights:
a. Business Development and Financial Literacy
b. Digital Skills for Entrepreneurs
c. Hands-on Vocational Training
d. Mentorship and Networking Opportunities
e. Access to Startup Support and Grants

Eligible participants:
1. Pre-selected trainees from Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre (DASAC)
2. Female youth leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs across Akwa Ibom

The EAP will officially begin on September 15, 2025, at the Ibom-LED Centre, IBB Avenue, Uyo.

The six-week training promises practical knowledge, mentorship, and access to financial resources. Interested participants are advised to call 07089679994 to fast-track their entrepreneurial journey.

FG AI and Robotics Centre to Empower Women and Youth

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FG AI and Robotics Centre to Empower Women and Youth

The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction has announced plans to work with the Federal Government–Technical Working Group on Sustainable Development and Safety Net in the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Centre.

The centre, according to officials, will focus on empowering women, youth and children through training in AI and robotics.

The announcement came after a courtesy visit by the delegation of the FG-TWG to the Honourable Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr Yusuf Tanko Sununu, at his office in Abuja on Monday, 25th August 2025.

Speaking during the visit, the leader of the delegation, Executive Director and Project Coordinator, Dr M.A. Ibrahim, mni, explained that the initiative will be known as the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Centre.

He stated that the project is designed to develop the potential of exceptionally gifted Nigerian youths, women and children, while also serving as a world-class incubation hub that can position Nigeria at the forefront of AI, robotics and the global technology space.

“AI and emerging technology are empowering technology. AI is the in thing in every field and a veritable employer of labour across the globe,” Ibrahim said. He explained that the centre will be housed at the National Open University of Nigeria, which has a strong e-learning network across the country. With this structure, the centre will have the capacity to reach and empower people nationwide.

He added that the centre was named after the First Lady, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in recognition of her dedication to human development and her efforts towards the empowerment of women, youth and children.

The initiative is made up of 13 members drawn from various institutions, with consultations carried out alongside the Digital Bridge Institute, NOUN and other key stakeholders. The Ministry has been appointed as the line ministry for the initiative.

Dr Ibrahim appealed for the Ministry’s support and guidance to ensure the successful implementation of the project.

In his response, the Honourable Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr Yusuf Tanko Sununu, praised the delegation for the initiative and assured them of the Ministry’s support. “The Ministry is committed to giving full cooperation towards the success of this project,” he said.

This collaboration is expected to open up new opportunities in artificial intelligence, robotics and digital skills development, creating employment and promoting innovation in Nigeria.

Apply: Akwa Ibom reopened Arise Youth recruitment portal

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Apply: Akwa Ibom reopened Arise Youth recruitment portal

August 26, 2025 – Akwa Ibom State Government has reopened the Arise Youth Employment Portal for job seekers across the state.

Although no official announcement by the state government, the portal is now live and open for registration and applications into newly available opportunities.

Recall that the portal had only just been closed after the recent civil service recruitment into various roles.

This move is part of the Arise Agenda, an initiative focused on job creation and youth empowerment. The employment portal is open for registration and application to available opportunities.

The portal now lists several openings in the downstream oil and gas sector, as well as technical roles. The new opportunities available include:
i. Electrical Engineer (Downstream Oil and Gas)
ii. Mechanical Engineer (Downstream Oil and Gas)
iii. Civil Engineers (Downstream Oil and Gas)
iv. Chemical Engineer (Downstream Oil and Gas)
v. Instrumentation & Control Engineer (Downstream Oil and Gas)
vi. Industrial Welders
vii. Industrial Fitters

The government also highlighted that the requirements were made inclusive to accommodate a wider range of applicants. “SSCE can also apply for the least opportunity,” according to the statement.

Registration for the portal begins on August 26, 2025, and will close on August 28, 2025.

How to apply:

Interested candidates who meet the necessary qualifications are advised to log in and submit their applications Here.

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