Home Blog Page 524

DSS Arrests Man for Selling Fake Recruitment Questions on Facebook

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
DSS Arrests Man for Selling Fake Recruitment Questions on Facebook

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arrested one Mr. Eze Ezenwa Benard for allegedly circulating fake recruitment past questions and answers through social media platforms.

This development comes amidst growing rumours of recruitment into the Service, even though no official announcement has been made by the agency on its communication channels.

According to reports, the DSS had earlier, on August 23, 2025, published a disclaimer on a fake N1,000 past questions and answers that were being shared online. The agency clarified that it has never authorised the sale of such materials.

In a statement released on Saturday, the Service explained that the suspect operated through a Facebook page named “Jobs and Education,” where he advertised and sold fraudulent documents to unsuspecting Nigerians. Benard allegedly charged ₦1,000 for access to the fake recruitment questions and answers.

The DSS warned Nigerians against patronising such schemes, stressing that it does not distribute recruitment materials through private individuals or social media platforms. “Recruitment into the Service, when necessary, follows a specialised procedure in accordance with extant laws and due process,” the DSS stated.

The agency further described the arrest as part of its broader efforts to shield the public from what it called “the fraudulent schemes of unpatriotic elements” and to safeguard the integrity of its recruitment process.

It also urged citizens to remain vigilant, always verify recruitment information through official DSS channels, and report suspicious individuals attempting to extort money under false pretenses. The Service assured that offenders will be prosecuted in line with the law.

Advertisement

Sokoto Senator Distributes 1,000 Motorcycles, 10,000 Bags of Rice, Others

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
Sokoto Senator Distributes 1,000 Motorcycles, 10,000 Bags of Rice, Others

August 24, 2025 – Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, representing Sokoto North Senatorial District, on Sunday launched the second phase of his large-scale empowerment and relief distribution programme aimed at improving livelihoods across his constituency and beyond.

The event took place in Kware Local Government Area, which served as the launch centre for the initiative.

The programme featured the distribution of 1,000 motorcycles, several sewing machines, grinding machines for women, many water pumping machines for irrigation farmers, and 10,000 50kg bags of rice to households. According to organisers, each of the four benefiting local governments, Sokoto South, Sokoto North, Kware, and Wamakko, will receive 1,000 bags of rice and 50 motorcycles.

This initiative was described as part of the Senator’s fulfilment of a promise he made on January 8, during the disbursement of cash assistance to youth associations across the state. Beneficiaries of this phase include ward chairmen, women leaders, social media coordinators, and traditional leaders, reflecting what the organisers called an inclusive approach to empowerment.

The distribution exercise was designed to support both immediate household needs and long-term economic empowerment. The provision of grinding machines to women was aimed at promoting self-reliance, while the water pumping machines were given to farmers to boost dry-season farming and enhance food security.

Speaking on behalf of Senator Wamakko, Alhaji Nasiru Italy, an APC youth leader in the state, described the Senator’s leadership style as one that embraces inclusiveness.

“Senator Wamakko’s style of leadership goes beyond Sokoto North Senatorial District. He is a leader whose interventions are felt across Sokoto State,” he said.

Also present at the event was the Deputy Speaker of the Sokoto State House of Assembly, Hon. Kabiru Ibrahim Kware, who flagged off the distribution of motorcycles.

He praised Senator Wamakko for his political impact. “Senator Wamakko is a father and a respected leader among politicians across the state, regardless of party affiliations,” he said. He added that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) had overshadowed opposition parties in Sokoto, attributing the party’s strength to grassroots programmes such as this.

Similarly, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Alhaji Almustafa Abubakar Alkali, reiterated the Senator’s dedication to his promises. “Senator Wamakko has continued to fulfil his political responsibilities with integrity, ensuring that the people benefit directly from his interventions,” he stated.

Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the gesture, saying that the provision of vehicles, farming tools, sewing machines, and food supplies would significantly improve their livelihoods. Many noted that such initiatives would not only enhance daily survival but also strengthen support for progressive politics and the APC-led government in Sokoto State.

Organisers confirmed that the exercise will be extended to other local government areas in due course, ensuring that more communities benefit from the large-scale distribution.

Kwara Govt to Educate Herders Children Across 16 LGAs

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
Kwara Govt to Educate Herders Children Across 16 LGAs

The Kwara State government has announced plans to prioritise the education of herders’ children as part of efforts to produce good leaders and reduce insecurity across the state.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq made this known at a security meeting held in Ilorin, organised by the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) for herders, security agencies, and other stakeholders from the 16 local government areas.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Strategy, Abdulsalam Atiku, the governor explained that education remains a critical tool in discouraging young people from joining criminal groups. “Educating herders’ children will prevent them from joining bad groups and ensure that they contribute positively to society,” he said.

Governor AbdulRazaq added that herders need to embrace modern methods of cattle rearing, which will reduce farmer-herder clashes that have negatively affected food production and agriculture.

He noted that the state government has already introduced several interventions across the 16 local government areas to support herders and their vocations.

Speaking at the meeting, the member representing Banni/Adena State Constituency at the Kwara State House of Assembly, Saidu Baba, called for stronger measures to address security challenges. “The problem of insecurity should be tackled with all the necessary strength it deserves,” he said, assuring that legislators will continue to make laws that will help reduce insecurity in the state.

The leader of herders in Kwara State, Alhaji Ojonla Mahmud, represented by Ali Muhammed Jowuro, expressed support for the government’s initiatives. He urged herders to cooperate with security agencies and report suspicious movements around their communities.

“We will ensure adequate support for government initiatives to end insecurity at all levels,” he assured.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Kwara State Chapter, Alhaji Shehu Garba, lamented the impact of insecurity on herders. “Insecurity has made life unbearable for herders,” he said, warning that failure to address the situation could lead to the collapse of livestock farming not just in Kwara State, but across the country. He further urged herders to support government initiatives aimed at restoring peace.

Insecurity has remained a growing concern in Kwara State in recent years, with incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, and violent clashes between farmers and herders disrupting economic activities and spreading fear among residents. Farmers in some areas have abandoned their farmlands due to attacks, causing reduced agricultural output and rising food prices. Herders have also faced difficulties in moving livestock safely, threatening their livelihoods.

Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration has stressed the need for a comprehensive approach, including stronger security, community vigilance, and educational opportunities to keep young people away from crime. Traditional rulers and local stakeholders have also been engaged in efforts to support intelligence sharing and peacebuilding.

Despite these measures, insecurity continues to pose a challenge. On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, gunmen attacked the Ilesah Baruba motor park in Baruten Local Government Area, killing six people and injuring two others. The assailants reportedly shot indiscriminately, creating panic in the community.

Following the attack, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Olufemi Oluyede, directed Nigerian soldiers to flush out a new terrorist group operating in Kaiama and Baruten Local Government Areas of Kwara State. This move is expected to strengthen the fight against violent groups in the region.

The Kwara State government has since reaffirmed its commitment to adopting a comprehensive and multi-pronged approach to addressing emerging security threats. Authorities say the strategy will combine education, security reinforcement, and community cooperation to ensure safety and sustainable development across the state.

NASRDA, Partners Host STEAM Funfest for Over 200 Children

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
NASRDA, Partners Host STEAM Funfest for Over 200 Children

The National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), on Saturday, collaborated with Astronomy Without Borders (AWB) and Edufun Technik to sensitise children on careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).

The programme, titled ‘STEAM Funfest’, was organised in Abuja to engage children during the holiday period. With the theme ‘Exploring Space Technology and STEM Education’, the event targeted primary and secondary school students to broaden their knowledge and stimulate interest in science and technology.

Matthew Adepoju, NASRDA director-general, represented by the head of space education, Daniel Egure, said the event was designed to inspire curiosity in young people and encourage them to pursue careers in science and technology.

He raised concerns over the declining interest in space science among Nigerian youths and stressed the importance of mentorship.

“All we want is to spark curiosity in young minds, build their mindset, encourage innovation and inspire them to grow within science and technology,” he explained.

He further added that Nigeria must explore the future of space science for national benefits, making it crucial to groom children early to develop strong interest in the sector.

Olayinka Fagbero, founder of AWB, described the funfest as the first of its kind in Abuja, created to inspire children during their school break. She explained that the programme adopted the STEAM model rather than just STEM to emphasise that space was multidisciplinary and open to people from different backgrounds.

“Space is not only for scientists and engineers. Whether you love arts, commerce or sciences, there is a place for you in space,” she said.

Ms Fagbero noted that although Nigeria has had a space agency for over 25 years, the country had yet to make the desired impact due to poor youth involvement.

She stressed that the initiative aimed to guide children towards early career choices in the space sector, helping secure Nigeria’s future in science and technology.

Uchenna Onwuamaegbu-Ugwu, a co-convener, explained that the programme gave children access to STEM resources, opportunities to learn about various careers, and a platform to connect with peers while having fun.

She added that the organisers planned to sustain the project by introducing STEM clubs in schools and engaging parents to encourage children to embrace STEAM opportunities.

Activities at the funfest featured panel discussions, career coaching sessions, debates on Artificial Intelligence and Robotics, quiz competitions, and stories from women in space, aimed at creating lasting inspiration for children to pursue careers in science, technology, and innovation.

KASITDA, KCI to Train 1.5 Million Kano Youths in Digital Skills by 2027

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
KASITDA, KCI to Train 1.5 Million Kano Youths in Digital Skills by 2027

Kano State Information Technology Development Agency (KASITDA) has announced a strategic partnership with KALM Community Initiative (KCI), a non-governmental organisation, to empower 1.5 million youths with digital literacy and skills.

The initiative is targeted at reducing unemployment and boosting economic productivity through digital transformation in the state.

The director-general of KASITDA, Bashir-Abdu Muzakkari, disclosed this while speaking to journalists at the sidelines of the Youth Impact Forum organised by KCI in Zaria. He explained that the new collaboration is part of the broader Kano State Digital Economic Policy and Digital Transformation Agenda, which is scheduled to run between 2025 and 2027.

“These cohorts would become digitally literate at the basic, intermediate and expert levels,” Muzakkari said. He noted that out of the 1.5 million youths expected to benefit from the programme, 150,000 had already been engaged as a pilot scheme.

The director-general further highlighted that 1,150 youths recently graduated from the Kano State Entrepreneurship Institute and the Kano State Institute for Information Technology in Kura. He explained that the success recorded so far has encouraged the state government to replicate the KCI interface programme in tertiary institutions across Kano.

Muzakkari also revealed that KASITDA will replicate the youth impact forum by working with KCI to extend the initiative to grassroots communities.

He added that KASITDA is already driving innovative solutions through a Hackathon programme, known as HEAT, which stands for Health, Education, Agriculture, and Transportation.

“The hackathon was initiated in preparation for a transition from traditional government to e-government. Once youths offer solutions in these key sectors of HEAT, the government will fund them. If it is a start-up, KASITDA would fund and accelerate it into a full-blown company. So far, we have received over 200 applications,” he stated.

On her part, Aisha Muhammad, founder of KALM Community Initiative, said the organisation was established on the belief that while challenges exist everywhere, opportunities are not evenly distributed.

She stressed that KCI’s mission is to provide young people with the chance to embrace technology by offering practical support to those willing to learn, innovate and build a brighter future.

“At KCI we have seen the untapped potentials in the minds of the young potentials with dreams but no spark to ignite them; today we are here to provide those sparks,” Muhammad said.

She explained that the Youth Impact Forum allows students to interact with content creators, digital trailblazers, blockchain experts, and developers, creating a platform to harness digital economic ideas.

According to her, the collaboration with state actors and stakeholders will also expand the initiative beyond Kano, helping reduce unemployment among Nigerian youths.

FG, AfDB to Launch $100m Youth Investment Bank for African Entrepreneurs

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
FG, AfDB to Launch $100m Youth Investment Bank for African Entrepreneurs

Nigeria and the African Development Bank (AfDB) are set to launch a $100 million initiative to provide structured financing for young Africans.

The disclosure was made by Abraham Durosanwo, Vice President of the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority, during BusinessDay Foundation’s virtual dialogue themed “Beyond borders: young voices, global choices” to mark International Youth Day.

“In the last nine months, I have been involved working with the federal government in Nigeria across the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Youth Development to set up both an investment bank and a development bank that is targeted to the youth,” Durosanwo stated.

He explained that the project would focus on giving young Africans access to structured financing opportunities, particularly in areas such as fintech, agri-tech, and health-tech.

Durosanwo emphasized that finance alone is not enough and urged young people to develop bankable ideas that can attract investment. “Investors are looking for returns, so young entrepreneurs must understand their markets, pricing, and value propositions,” he said.

Encouraging African youth to think globally, he noted that the continent’s contributions to technology and innovation are increasing but require greater visibility. “When you’re building a business, when you’re solving a problem, you’re not only creating that solution for southwest Nigeria or northern Nigeria,” he explained. “You’re creating it for Nigeria, for Africa, and for the world.”

Durosanwo also stressed the importance of awareness, pointing to a recent funding programme that received 5,000 applications as proof that young people who seek opportunities can find them.

“If you didn’t hear about it, then I wonder whether you’re living under a rock,” he remarked. He advised youth to actively use digital tools and artificial intelligence to stay informed about grants, loans, and investment opportunities.

“A lot of times things are happening that people don’t know,” he warned, urging young people to “put their heads on the ground” and search for information that can open doors. He highlighted Nigeria’s large economy, vast population, and strong diaspora network as assets that can help scale local solutions to global platforms.

Durosanwo further urged that young people must participate in decision-making spaces where financing and policies are shaped. “Too often, young people are not in the rooms where conversations are had about how to make their lives easier,” he cautioned.

With the upcoming $100 million youth investment bank and several grant programmes already available, he said the future is promising for young African entrepreneurs.

According to him, success will depend on embracing information, preparation, and adopting a global outlook to compete effectively on international stages.

FG Empowers 500 Women in Ogun under Renewed Hope Initiative

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
FG Empowers 500 Women in Ogun under Renewed Hope Initiative

The Federal Government has empowered 500 women in Ogun State with equipment such as grinding machines, deep freezers, and generators under the Renewed Hope Initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The empowerment programme, which took place at the Presidential Lodge in Abeokuta, was designed to support small-scale enterprises and strengthen household income.

Speaking at the event, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, Mrs. Taiwo Bello, who represented Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, said the initiative is focused on unlocking potential and improving economic opportunities for women.

“The Renewed Hope Initiative seeks to promote economic independence and create opportunities for women across the country,” she stated.

The Wife of the Ogun State Governor and Coordinator of the Initiative, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, praised the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her commitment to bridging gaps in women’s empowerment. She noted that such interventions will go a long way in supporting female entrepreneurs.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Women Affairs described the programme as timely and encouraged beneficiaries to use the items effectively to promote self-reliance and community development.

NITDA, Lagos State Partner to Drive Digital Policy and Innovation

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
NITDA, Lagos State Partner to Drive Digital Policy and Innovation

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and its Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2024–2027), has partnered with the Lagos State Government to hold a technical session with the Lagos State Technical Working Group (TWG) at Semicolon Africa, Lagos.

The session, themed “Policy Alignment, Innovation, and Digital Inclusion for Sub-National Development,” gathered officials from NITDA’s Southwest Zonal Office, representatives of the Lagos State Government, TWG members, and private sector stakeholders to localise national IT frameworks and accelerate digital transformation policies at the state level.

During the meeting, NITDA presented the Regulatory Intelligence Framework (RIF) while members of the TWG gave actionable feedback on challenges affecting policy adoption in Lagos. The Lagos State Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging NITDA’s frameworks, including SRAP 2.0, the Nigeria Data Protection Law Framework (NDLF), and the Nigeria Startup Act.

According to officials, the TWG pledged to support the Lagos State Government in developing and implementing digital policies that would improve public service delivery and empower underserved communities.

NITDA described the session as “a critical milestone in sub-national engagement,” adding that the collaboration positions Lagos as a leading example of policy co-creation, stakeholder partnership, and inclusive digital governance aimed at driving economic growth through innovation and technology adoption.

FG Begins Verification for Bursary and NYSC Ex-Corps Scholarship Beneficiaries

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
FG Begins Verification for Bursary and NYSC Ex-Corps Scholarship Beneficiaries

The Federal Ministry of Education has announced the commencement of the Physical Verification Exercise for beneficiaries of the Nigerian Award/Education Bursary and the President’s NYSC Ex-Corps Scholarship. The exercise will run from Monday, August 25, 2025, to Friday, August 29, 2025, across institutions.

In an official letter issued by the Federal Scholarship Board, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, approved the exercise and directed institutions to cooperate fully.

The memo addressed to Vice Chancellors, Rectors, and Provosts stated, “The Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa has approved the Physical Verification Exercise of Scholarships’ beneficiaries in your institution. In view of the above, the institution will be having an officer of the Federal Scholarship Board, Abuja. He/she is mandated to carry out Physical Verification Exercise for beneficiaries of the Nigerian Award/Education Bursary and the President’s NYSC Ex-Corps Scholarships in your institution between August 25-August 29, 2025.”

The letter further instructed institutions to publish the information on their official websites to ensure that all students are properly informed. The Director/Secretary of the Federal Scholarship Board, Mrs. H.A. Ndajiwo, who signed the letter on behalf of the Minister, emphasized the importance of the process.

Students benefiting from the scholarship have been advised to prepare their documents, remain punctual, and cooperate during the verification period. The memo warned that participation in the exercise is a prerequisite for accessing scholarship benefits.

Adding his voice, the Students’ Union Government President of Federal University Dutsin-Ma, Rt. Comr. Nasiru Imam Muhammed, signed a notice urging beneficiaries to treat the verification exercise as a serious requirement.

Attached below is the memo:

Gov Eno Town Square Meetings: N10bn Grants to 7,688 Beneficiaries

Paulinus Sunday
-
0
Gov Eno Town Square Meetings: N10bn Grants to 7,688 Beneficiaries

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has concluded the 6-month Town Square Meeting/Empowerment series, with a visit to Etinan Federal Constituency where he said no fewer than 7688 citizens across the State have benefited from grants for farming, trading, equipment support, cars and mini buses worth over N10 billion.

The series which began in Abak Federal Constituency with 833 beneficiaries continued in Oron with 980, Eket with 1,076, Ikot Ekpene with 664 and 540 in Ikot Abasi federal constituencies.

411 and 677 people also benefitted in Ukanafun and Itu Federal Constituencies respectively, while 1,187 and 476 beneficiaries were recorded as beneficiaries from Uyo and Ikono Federal Constituencies.

Speaking during the grand finale held at Nsit Ubium Council Secretariat, Ikot Edibon, the Governor said 844 from Etinan Federal Constituency were beneficiaries of N361, 450, 000 worth of grants for the different empowerment packages.

He said all the beneficiaries were harvested from the ARISE portal, and urged everyone, especially youths to take advantage of the portal to benefit from the different Government initiatives including procurement, employment, empowerment and others.

According to him, the State under his leadership, will not give slots to individuals, but will continue to ensure level playing field for all citizens irrespective of social status, stressing that everyone should have equal opportunity.

He said though the Town Square meeting had ended, his committed service to Akwa Ibom State will continue, adding that the needs document for Etinan Federal Constituency as well as all others across the State had been received and will be accommodated accordingly in the 2026 budget, based on availability of funds.

The Governor said all local government areas have benefited from one project or the other at various stages of completion.

He said youth centres will be built in all the local government areas across the State, and urged local government chairmen to make land available for the project.

Governor Eno who reiterated his support for local government autonomy, said to ensure that local government chairmen reside within their communities, official residences will be built for all local government chairmen across the State.

He appreciated everyone for taking part in the town square meetings, and specifically appreciated the people of Etinan Federal Constituency for their overwhelming turnout and heroic reception, and directed the Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Prof. Eno Ibanga to facilitate the design for the award of contract for a dual carriageway from Afaha Offiong in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area to Itreto in Nsit Ubium.

Governor Eno who is the leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the State, urged all members and intending ones to participate in the ongoing membership registration/revalidation, as well as in the Continuous Voter registration that has just been started by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

He warned youths against insulting leaders, stressing that Akwa Ibom is progressively united in support of President Tinubu, Godswill Akpabio and of course his return to Hilltop Mansion, come 2027.

In his tone setting, Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, said the meeting was a homecoming for a worthy son of the Federal Constituency who has been fruitful and has served creditably well.

In their separate remarks, General Paul Isang (rtd), Otuekong Sunny Jackson, Obong Umana Okon Umana, said they were proud to identify with the laudable achievements of the Governor, adding that he has done creditably well and deserves a second term.

On his part, the Oku Ibom Ibibio and President- General of Akwa Ibom State Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM, Ntenyin (Dr) Solomon Etuk appreciated the Governor for making them proud through impactful service, and prayed for more grace upon him to do more for Etinan Federal Constituency and the State at large.

Also speaking, members of the State Executive Council led by Attorney- General/Commissioner for Justice, Uko Udom, SAN appreciated the Governor for his people – centric governance and for appointing them to be part of his cabinet, and assured of continuous support beyond 2027.

Also speaking on behalf of local government chairmen from the Constituency, Chairman of Nsit Ubium LGA, Hon Alfred Charles said the God has made them proud with impactful leadership.

Presenting the empowerment packages on behalf of the State government, the State Chairman of the APC, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo said he was not surprised by the sea of heads at the event, stressing that it was not just a statement, but a vote of confidence and endorsement for the Governor.

High point of the event was the adoption of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Umo Eno as sole candidates for the office of President and Governor in the 2027 elections, following a motion moved by Rt Hon Otobong Bob and seconded by Hon Eric Akpan.

1...523524525...676Page 524 of 676