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Tinubu Signs Air Service Deal with Brazil for Direct Flights

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Tinubu Signs Air Service Deal with Brazil for Direct Flights

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed a landmark Bilateral Air Service Agreement with Brazil, creating direct air connections between Nigeria and South America’s largest economy. The agreement was formalised on Monday during Tinubu’s official state visit to Brasília.

A statement by Tunde Moshood, media aide to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, confirmed the signing.

The ceremony was attended by President Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, signed for Nigeria, while Brazil’s Minister of Transport, Silvio Costa Filho, signed for Brazil.

The Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA) provides a framework for direct flights between both countries. It is expected to boost trade, tourism, investment, and diplomatic relations.

The statement noted, “It also marks a key step in Nigeria’s broader efforts to strengthen international partnerships and improve global connectivity.”

Tinubu travelled with a delegation that included Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun. Others were Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, and senior government officials.

Brazilian President Lula welcomed the agreement. He pledged his administration’s commitment to expand cooperation with Nigeria in aviation, agriculture, and infrastructure. He described the BASA as a reflection of strong ties and an opportunity to deepen economic and cultural collaboration.

During the state visit, Tinubu is scheduled to meet with key Brazilian government leaders. These include the President of the Senate, the President of the Chamber of Deputies, and the President of the Supreme Federal Court.

The two-day visit will feature high-level talks between Nigerian and Brazilian delegations across different sectors. Discussions are expected to explore opportunities for bilateral investment, mutual growth, and long-term partnerships.

According to the statement, “The ongoing state visit will also see President Tinubu meeting the President of the Brazilian Senate at the National Congress, the President of the Chamber of Deputies, and the President of the Supreme Federal Court. The working visit, which continues tomorrow, will also feature high-level engagements between Nigerian and Brazilian delegations across various sectors, underscoring both nations’ commitment to building a future of mutual growth and prosperity.”

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Ondo to Comply with EU Ban on Cocoa, Other Agricultural Products

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Ondo to Comply with EU Ban on Cocoa, Other Agricultural Products

August 25, 2025 – Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has inaugurated the Ondo State Strategic Committee for European Union Deforestation-Free Regulation (EUDR) Compliance, urging stakeholders to align the state’s cocoa sector with emerging global standards.

The inauguration, which took place on Monday, August 25, 2025, at the Cocoa Conference Hall, Governor’s Office, Alagbaka, Akure, gathered key stakeholders across the cocoa value chain, including farmers, exporters, processors, and commodity associations.

In his address, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the move as a significant milestone for the cocoa industry in Ondo State.

He noted that the European Union’s regulation, which bans the sale of cocoa, coffee, oil palm and other agricultural products linked to deforestation in its market, is set to take effect from December 30, 2025.

“Nigeria is the fourth-largest cocoa exporter in Africa, while Ondo State, the largest cocoa-producing state in Nigeria, accounts for about 40 percent of the national output. With about 60 percent of our farmers in direct cocoa production, and many more engaged in processing, warehousing, marketing and transportation, our cocoa could be at risk if we fail to prepare for EUDR compliance,” the governor said.

He tasked the newly inaugurated committee to engage in broad consultations with all stakeholders and to come up with strategies that will position Ondo cocoa for global competitiveness.

He also praised exporters and processors who have already adopted polygon mapping, agroforestry, and sustainability programmes ahead of the EUDR deadline.

Governor Aiyedatiwa assured that his administration will continue to support agroforestry practices and forest restoration. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving a draft bill for the establishment of the National Cocoa Management Board (NCMB), which aims to regulate and promote sustainable growth of the cocoa subsector.

In his welcome remarks, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Engr. Leye Akinola, hailed the governor’s effort to safeguard the future of cocoa in Ondo State.

He said the committee will be meeting weekly and expressed optimism that, with the cooperation of stakeholders, Ondo could achieve in 90 days what took countries like Cameroon four years to implement.

“Cocoa is the backbone of our state’s economy, and with the governor’s support, we are confident of boosting production, increasing revenue and strengthening Ondo’s place as Nigeria’s cocoa leader,” Akinola said.

Also speaking, the National President of the Cocoa Farmers Association of Nigeria (CFAN), Mr. Adeola Adegoke, pledged full support of the association to the state government.

He stressed the need for producing deforestation-free cocoa as a way of protecting the environment, securing access to international markets, and sustaining the livelihood of farmers.

Adegoke further urged stakeholders to embrace agroforestry systems and data-driven mapping already initiated by some exporters, adding that these measures are critical to ensuring compliance with EUDR while also promoting environmental sustainability.

Present at the inauguration were Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Olamide Oladiji, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Head of Service, Bayo Philip, along with other senior government officials.

Niger East Senator Sends 200 Students on Scholarship to India, China

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Niger East Senator Sends 200 Students on Scholarship to India, China

Abuja witnessed a remarkable departure on Monday as 200 students from Niger East Senatorial District left Nigeria for India and China. They are beneficiaries of the Senator Mohammed-Sani Musa International Undergraduate Scholarship Scheme, created to give young people global opportunities and skills.

Speaking at the event, Senator Musa, represented by his wife, Hajia Saadatu Sani Musa, said the initiative was designed to close educational gaps. She noted that the scheme would produce professionals who can bring real change to society.

“This is not just about sending young people abroad; it is about preparing an army of thinkers, builders, and innovators who will return with the skills to transform Niger East and Nigeria,” she explained.

Hajia Saadatu urged the students to be disciplined and focused while abroad.

“Opportunity without discipline is wasted, and talent without hard work is buried treasure. You are going as ambassadors of Niger East, nurtured in the values of respect, integrity, and community spirit. Remember: our tomorrow must be better than today, and that begins with the education of our children,” she told them.

Parents and community leaders hailed the move as a life-changing step.

“For us, this is more than just a scholarship; it is a ladder out of poverty and a ticket to a brighter future. Our children now have a chance we could only dream of,” said Malam Abdullahi, father of one of the beneficiaries.

Traditional and religious leaders also praised Senator Musa for turning promises into opportunities.

The students will study medicine, engineering, technology, and management sciences in universities across India and China. The scheme is expected to provide academic training, cultural exchange, and leadership development.

Hajia Saadatu reminded them that their true success will be seen in the impact they make when they return.

“Go forth, shine, and may Almighty Allah guide your steps, protect you, and crown your efforts with resounding success. Safe journey, our pride. Your story of success has just begun,” she declared.

A release added that Senator Musa pledged to sustain and expand the scheme, saying education remains “the cornerstone of his legislative and philanthropic agenda.”

Enugu Trade Fair 2025 to Feature Giveaways and Free Booths for SMEs

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Enugu Trade Fair 2025 to Feature Giveaways and Free Booths for SMEs

The 2025 Edition of the Enugu042 NaijaBrandChick Trade Fair has been officially announced, with activities set to take place on August 30 and 31 at the International Conference Center, Enugu.

The event is expected to bring together entrepreneurs, business owners, and investors to highlight the strength of micro, small, and medium enterprises while driving growth in Enugu’s digital economy.

According to the organisers, this year’s fair will not just be a business gathering but also a demonstration of government’s dedication to innovation and commerce. Governor H.E. Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah described the trade fair as “a bold statement in our commitment to empowering MSMEs, promoting trade, and positioning Enugu as the hub for innovation and economic growth.”

The Enugu SME Center and the Office of the Special Adviser on Digital Economy & MSMEs, led by Hon. Arinze Chilo-Offiah, will provide special support for participants. Highlighting the benefits, Chilo-Offiah explained that attendees and vendors will enjoy unique incentives such as the “Peter Naira Giveaways,” which will allow shopping with exclusive vouchers at the fair. He also confirmed that “outstanding SMEs will be offered free vendor booths to showcase their products at no cost.”

More than 100 vendors are expected to participate, offering product discounts, cultural showcases, and networking opportunities.

In partnership with NaijaBrandChick, the event will create an environment where businesses expand visibility and investors gain confidence in Enugu as a safe and secure destination for global trade.

The two-day event is scheduled for 30th–31st August 2025 at the International Conference Center, Enugu.

NPC, NYSC DG Strengthen Ties Ahead of Population Census

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NPC, NYSC DG Strengthen Ties Ahead of Population Census

August 25, 2025 – The Chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, fcison, paid a courtesy visit to the Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu, at the NYSC Headquarters in Abuja.

The visit was aimed at strengthening the existing relationship between the NPC and the NYSC while also exploring new areas of collaboration, particularly in relation to the forthcoming Population and Housing Census.

During the meeting, Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra stressed the importance of partnership, saying, “This collaboration will help us build stronger programmes that address pressing population challenges and ensure wider participation in the census process.”

In his remarks, Brigadier General Olakunle Oluseye Nafiu expressed support, noting that, “The NYSC is committed to working with the NPC to promote youth development and contribute to sustainable growth in Nigeria.”

FG Introduces Mandatory Ethics and Criminal Record Checks for Teachers

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FG Introduces Mandatory Ethics and Criminal Record Checks for Teachers

The Federal Government has announced a mandatory Teacher Ethics and Criminal Record Verification Framework to raise standards in Nigeria’s education system.

The initiative was unveiled in Abuja by the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, during the launch of the Teachers’ Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) digital portal and strategic vision for Nigerian teachers.

According to Dr Alausa, the framework will ensure that no teacher in public or private schools is employed without undergoing ethics screening and criminal background checks.

He explained that this move is part of wider reforms designed to restore dignity, accountability, and professionalism to the teaching sector.

“The government is committed to safeguarding the integrity of the classroom by ensuring that only individuals of sound moral character and verified ethical conduct are entrusted with the responsibility of shaping the nation’s future,” he said.

The minister added that the framework will help identify and remove individuals with questionable backgrounds who may pose risks to students or undermine the values of education.

He stressed that the verification system will work with the TRCN digital portal, which provides real-time teacher registration, licensing, and monitoring.

Through the portal, school administrators, government agencies, and stakeholders will be able to verify the authenticity of teachers’ credentials and their compliance with new ethical standards.

Dr Alausa said this would improve transparency and reduce impersonation, forgery, and the employment of unqualified staff in schools.

“As part of our reform agenda, we are introducing a mandatory Teacher Ethics and Criminal Record Verification Framework. No teacher, whether in public or private institutions, will henceforth be employed without undergoing ethics screening and criminal background checks. Private school owners will be mandated to verify the TRCN registration and ethical clearance of their teachers. The TRCN Portal will integrate a secure verification system to make this possible in real time,” he stated.

Earlier, the Chief Executive of TRCN, Dr Ronke Soyombo, highlighted the urgent need for reforms.

She revealed that 30 per cent of Nigerian children are unable to read and write, stressing that this challenge requires immediate attention.

Dr Soyombo explained that the portal comes with features such as Artificial Intelligence-powered lesson planning, criminal record checks, and teachers’ investigation panels across all states.

According to her, the system is expected to boost teaching quality by giving teachers access to training, resources, and professional support.

In a goodwill message, Senior Education Adviser at the British High Commission, Ian Attfield, expressed the United Kingdom’s readiness to support Nigeria in developing the teacher development portal.

Attfield noted that the UK government has been working closely with TRCN’s leadership to push the project forward.

He described Nigeria’s education system as complex, with teachers in faith-based schools and low-cost private institutions.

He emphasised the need for a system that connects data platforms, motivates teachers, and uses a mix of incentives and support to improve classroom quality.

Attfield called the task Herculean but achievable, assuring that the UK government stands behind Nigeria in its drive to build a stronger and more cohesive education system.

EyeCity Africa Opens Research Internship Applications

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EyeCity Africa Opens Research Internship Applications

August 25, 2025 – EyeCity Africa has announced a call for applications for its Research Internship programme, targeting young professionals who are passionate about research and eager to drive positive change within Africa’s development ecosystem.

According to EyeCity Africa, the internship is an entry-level role designed for individuals with less than three years of work experience.

Applications are open to candidates from Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda, Kenya, and Francophone African countries.

“This opportunity is aimed at nurturing talent across Africa and supporting individuals who are committed to research and development,” EyeCity Africa stated.

The requirements for the position are listed as follows:
a. Strong organizational and time management skills.
b. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
c. Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
d. Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
e. Ability to prioritize and multitask in a fast-paced environment
f. Good knowledge of MS Excel and Google Spreadsheets, MS Word and PowerPoint
g. Prior experience in research, consulting and/or international development is a plus
h. Good understanding of the development sector with a strong flair for writing research reports, policy briefs and articulating complex concepts and thoughts effectively.
i. Good working knowledge of English and French is a plus.

The deadline for applications is September 2, 2025.

How to apply:

Interested applicants are expected to apply by filling out the form via https://forms.gle/W2CQsNSbLgCoDwZ58.

Bayelsa PPSB Sets Date for Collection of Teachers Employment Letters

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Bayelsa PPSB Sets Date for Collection of Teachers Employment Letters

August 25, 2025 – The Bayelsa State Post Primary School Board has directed all newly employed teachers to collect their employment letters starting from Tuesday, August 26, 2025.

According to the board, the exercise will take place at its headquarters office between 10am and 4pm daily.

In a statement signed by Mr. Irorodamie Komonibo, Deputy Chief of Staff and Chairman, Teachers Recruitment Verification/Review Committee, the schedule for collection will be done based on subject areas.

He explained, “All the newly employed teachers by the Bayelsa State Post Primary School Board are hereby requested to pick up their letters of employment from tomorrow, Tuesday, August 26, 2025. The schedule of collection is based on subject areas as highlighted in the attached document.”

For Tuesday, 26th August, only teachers recruited to teach the following subjects are expected at the board office:
1. English
2. Mathematics
3. Marketing
4. Agricultural Science
5. Guidance and Counseling
6. Government
7. French
8. Economics
9. Geography
10. Accounting
11. Computer Science

On Wednesday, 27th August, 2025, the collection continues with teachers in the following areas:
1. Chemistry
2. CRS
3. Business Studies
4. Biology
5. Basic Science
6. Fine Arts
7. History
8. Home Economics
9. Music
10. Physics
11. PHE
12. Social Studies

The board also announced that Thursday, 28th August, has been set aside strictly for spill over cases.

Attached below is the schedule:

Ogun Sets Screening Date for Technical and Vocational Colleges 2025/2026

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Ogun Sets Screening Date for Technical and Vocational Colleges 2025/2026

August 25, 2025 – The Ogun State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has announced the date for the screening examination into its Government Science and Technical Colleges and the Government Technical and Vocational College for the 2025/2026 academic session.

According to the Ministry, the exercise will be conducted through the Ogun State Technical and Vocational Education Board (OGSTVEB). The screening test is scheduled to hold on Saturday, 6th September 2025 at the college chosen by each candidate.

The examination will qualify successful applicants for a three-year programme leading to the award of the National Technical Certificate (NTC) or National Business Certificate (NBC). This initiative is part of efforts to promote technical education, vocational training, and job-ready skills among young people in the state.

The Ministry explained that the exercise is open to candidates who have completed their registration for the admission test via the Ogun State Digital Platform for Education Revitalisation (DIPER).

Eligible candidates must hold a Basic Education Certificate, West African Senior School Certificate (WASSC), or National Examination Council Senior Secondary Certificate (NECOSSC).

All candidates are expected to:
a. Report to their chosen examination centre with writing materials, printed registration slips, and photocopies of their credentials.
b. Conduct themselves in an orderly manner throughout the examination period.

The Ogun State Technical and Vocational Education Board has assured that adequate arrangements have been put in place for a smooth and hitch-free conduct of the screening.

Check: Kaduna Schools Quality Assurance BECE Hybrid Exam Result

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Check: Kaduna Schools Quality Assurance BECE Hybrid Exam Result

August 25, 2025 – Kaduna State Schools Quality Assurance Authority (KSSQAA) has officially released the results of the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) Hybrid Computer-Based Examination (CBE).

The statement noted that candidates, schools, parents, guardians, and stakeholders can now access the results online. “The results of the 2025 BECE Hybrid Computer-Based Examination (CBE) has now been released today, Monday, 25th August 2025,” it read.

How to check:

Candidates are to check their results via the portal at https://results.kssqaa.org while schools can download bulk results by logging in with their official credentials.

The Authority also stated that photo album access has been provided for school representatives.

Photo Album Access (For School Representatives)
1. Visit kssqaa.org
2. Navigate to Examinations Select BECE (CBE) and school type (Private/Public).
3. Log in with official credentials.
4. From the sidebar, click Photo Album.
5. Select examination year and type.
6. Click Print Use Ctrl + P to save as PDF or print.

All complaints regarding result access must be sent through schools. KSSQAA further stressed that requests for bio-data corrections or related services will also be processed only through schools.

The released results cover only the 2025 BECE Hybrid CBE, while the results of the 2025 BECE Pen-and-Paper Examination will be released at a later date.

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