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

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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.

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Akwa Ibom Gov Disburses N361m Grants to 844 Beneficiaries

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Akwa Ibom Gov Disburses N361m Grants to 844 Beneficiaries

August 23, 2025 – Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has reaffirmed his commitment to economic empowerment and infrastructure development during the grand finale of the ARISE Town Square Meeting and Empowerment Series in Etinan/Nsit-Ibom/Nsit-Ubium Federal Constituency.

At the event, the governor disbursed ₦361 million in business grants to 844 beneficiaries across the three local government areas.

He explained that the initiative is part of his administration’s focus on small businesses, farmers, and entrepreneurs. “Beyond the cash grants, we are expanding opportunities for small businesses, farmers, and entrepreneurs so that more families can thrive,” he said.

The governor also announced new directives to boost development in the area. These include the dualization of the Afaha-Ofiong–Itreto Road and the construction of a new police station at Ikot Edibon.

According to him, the projects are designed to improve security, connectivity, and overall quality of life for residents.

Describing the event as an emotional homecoming, Pastor Eno highlighted the significance of the support he received from community leaders and stakeholders.

“It was an emotional homecoming and the grand finale of our federal constituency tour. I’m humbled by the love and solidarity shown today by stakeholders, leaders, traditional rulers, and the people of our constituency. Their words of encouragement strengthen my resolve to fully deliver on the ARISE Agenda,” he stated.

The governor emphasized that his administration’s vision remains centered on unity, progress, and sustainable development.

He concluded by assuring the people of Akwa Ibom that their continued support will help build a state where every individual has the opportunity to rise. “This is a journey we are walking together, one of unity, progress, and sustainable development,” he added.

Oluremi Tinubu Launches Empowerment Programme, Supports 500 Women in Lagos

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Oluremi Tinubu Launches Empowerment Programme, Supports 500 Women in Lagos

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has said that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to empowering women economically in order to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

She made this statement on Saturday in Lagos during the official flag-off of the Renewed Hope Initiative in the South-West geo-political zone. The event also featured the presentation of empowerment items to 1,000 women in the region.

The programme was jointly organized by the Renewed Hope Initiative and the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals. It is part of a nationwide plan to lift 18,500 women out of poverty and to strengthen economic development across Nigeria.

According to the First Lady, the Renewed Hope Initiative is a humanitarian effort designed to complement President Bola Tinubu’s agenda of ensuring that all citizens benefit directly from government programmes.

She explained that 500 pre-selected women from Lagos and other South-West states were given empowerment items such as deep-chest freezers, maxi gas cookers with ovens, power generators, and industrial grinding machines.

“The items being distributed today are to equip our women with the necessary tools and resources they need to build successful businesses and to contribute to the prosperity of our great nation. These items will be distributed by state first ladies and Renewed Hope Initiative state coordinators in the South-West zone,” she said.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu noted that the items were meant to help the beneficiaries either start or grow their businesses. She urged the women to make good use of the opportunity.

“To the beneficiaries, I encourage you to use these resources judiciously to grow your businesses. Let these items serve as a foundation for creating a better life for yourselves and your families,” she added.

She also praised Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for supporting the programme with an additional 500 empowerment items, bringing the total number of beneficiaries in Lagos to 1,000.

“I commend Mr Governor for this gesture and his commitment to the growth and development of women in Lagos State. In recognition of the critical role women play in nation-building, this programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu, which prioritises inclusivity, economic growth and sustainable development for all Nigerians, particularly women. Empowerment of women in all spheres of life is central to achieving all the SDGs, especially SDG-5 on gender equality and empowering all women and girls, and SDG-8 on decent work and economic growth, which are all relevant to the purpose of this gathering,” the First Lady said.

She further commended the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, for her support towards the initiative.

Earlier in her remarks, Orelope-Adefulire charged the beneficiaries to make maximum use of the items provided. She emphasized that the programme is a key part of President Bola Tinubu’s agenda to promote economic transformation nationwide.

“The programme is not just about distributing items. It is about unlocking potential, fostering economic independence and creating opportunities for women to thrive,” she explained.

She highlighted that economic empowerment of women remains a crucial driver for gender equality, poverty reduction and sustainable development.

“The empowerment items, which include gas cookers, generators, deep freezers and grinding machines, are designed to equip women with the tools they need to build sustainable livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to national development,” Orelope-Adefulire added.

She expressed gratitude to Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her leadership in improving the lives of women, youths and underserved communities across all 36 states of Nigeria. She also thanked the Lagos State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative and the wife of the Governor of Lagos State for their collaboration.

Orelope-Adefulire acknowledged Governor Sanwo-Olu’s contribution of 500 additional equipment, describing it as a thoughtful initiative that complements the Federal Government’s policies and programmes.

“We thank you for additional support of 500 equipment to the initiative. I encourage the beneficiaries to make the best of the opportunity. Let this empowerment material serve as a stepping stone towards financial independence for youth, business development and sustainable livelihood. When a woman is empowered, a woman is able to build, the community is strengthened, and the nation prospers,” she said.

In his remarks, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described the programme as historic and an important show of compassion towards women.

“This gesture is a testament of leadership and unwavering belief that when we lift a woman, we lift families, we lift communities and, indeed, we lift an entire nation. Your Excellency, our mother, our beloved First Lady, words are certainly not enough to capture the depths of our gratitude that we feel toward you for your timeless commitment to the empowerment of women across our nation. We have watched you, we have heard your voice, your voice of courage, you have been a pillar of strength and a beacon of hope for women and children,” he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu added that the empowerment of 1,000 women in Lagos was more than just giving out items but a foundation for long-term progress.

“This ceremony which is the empowerment of 1,000 women is far more than the distribution of support. It is sowing the seed that will grow into forests of possibility,” he said.

FG, ActionAid to Boost Renewed Hope School Feeding Programme

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FG, ActionAid to Boost Renewed Hope School Feeding Programme

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the Renewed Hope National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme (NHGSFP) as a key driver of nutrition, education, local agriculture, and economic empowerment for millions of Nigerians.

This was restated by the Minister of State, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Chairman of the Steering Committee on Renewed Hope-NHGSFP, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, alongside the National Programme Manager, Dr. Princess Aderemi Adebowale, during the National Policy Forum on the Institutionalisation and Implementation of the Home-Grown School Feeding Programme. The event took place at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The forum, organised by ActionAid Nigeria in partnership with the Presidential Committee on Financial Inclusion and the Renewed Hope NHGSFP, gathered stakeholders from government, development partners, civil society, the private sector, and associations of smallholder farmers.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Sununu explained that the forum represents an important milestone in consolidating President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He said the initiative aims to improve human capital development while reinforcing social investment programmes across the country.

In her remarks, the National Programme Manager, Dr. Adebowale, assured that the Federal Government would work closely with ActionAid and other critical agencies to ensure the programme becomes more impactful. “Together, we are building a stronger, sustainable, and more impactful Home-Grown School Feeding Programme for the benefit of our children and communities,” she said.

Also present, the Technical Advisor to the President on Economic and Financial Inclusion, Dr. Nurudeen Zauro, emphasised that creating opportunities for economic and financial inclusion will be central to sustaining the NHGSFP.

He stressed that the programme holds significant potential for smallholder farmers, women, youths, and other value chains linked to food production and distribution.

Tinubu’s Brazil Visit Targets $1.1bn Deal, $3.5bn Trade by 2030

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Tinubu’s Brazil Visit Targets $1.1bn Deal, $3.5bn Trade by 2030

August 23, 2025 – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will embark on his third official visit to Brazil from August 24 to 25, 2025, at the invitation of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The visit, according to Sunday Dare, Special Adviser, Media and Public Communication/Spokesperson to President Bola Tinubu, marks a significant step in Nigeria’s foreign relations.

He explained in his release titled “Nigeria: Why Brazil. Yes, Brazil” that the trip will not only strengthen bilateral ties but also unlock key investments across agriculture, energy, technology, aviation, renewable energy, and cultural exchange.

The two-day State Visit will feature bilateral meetings, a Nigeria-Brazil Business Forum with top investors, and the signing of critical agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).

Sunday Dare emphasised that the trip “marks the transition from diplomacy to deals. Beyond dialogue, the focus will be activating multi-billion-dollar agricultural investments, advancing joint initiatives like the $1.1 billion Green Imperative mechanization project and securing new flows of FDI into Nigeria’s agriculture and energy sectors.”

Brazil, Latin America’s largest economy and a global agricultural powerhouse, shares several similarities with Nigeria, one of Africa’s largest economies with vast arable land and a young population. Both countries are recognised leaders of the Global South with converging aspirations in South-South cooperation. According to Dare, the visit is about “deepening political trust, expanding cultural exchange, and harnessing shared opportunities in renewable energy, climate resilience, and digital transformation.”

Looking ahead, both nations are setting ambitious goals for trade expansion. Leaders have pledged to push trade volumes back above US $2 billion, with projections of hitting US $3.5 billion by 2030. Already, the Green Imperative Partnership (GIP), a USD $1.1 billion programme, has been launched to supply 10,000 tractors and 50,000 pieces of equipment for assembly in Nigeria.

This initiative is expected to create about 100,000 direct jobs and more than 5 million indirect jobs, advancing agricultural mechanisation and boosting food security. The Green Imperative Agreement was previously signed during the visit of Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Viera in Abuja.

In the oil and gas sector, Brazilian companies such as Petrobras and Embraer are exploring investments, particularly in energy and aviation. Discussions are also underway to finalise a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) that would establish a direct flight route between Nigeria and Brazil.

This move is expected to reduce travel costs, enhance connectivity, and open up new opportunities for trade, tourism, and investment between both countries.

Sunday Dare pointed out that Nigeria and Brazil share important commonalities such as vast territories, large populations, tropical climates, and similar colonial histories.

Both hold strong influence in their regions and remain active members of key international organisations. Brazil also considers Nigeria as a strategic gateway to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) market, further cementing its position as a partner in South-South Cooperation.

Highlighting the broader significance, Dare described the trip as “the next leap forward in a carefully crafted strategy – one that transforms shared history and mutual challenges into shared prosperity.”

He noted that this State Visit forms part of President Tinubu’s Power Forward Diplomacy, an approach designed to propel Nigeria into a new era of bold economic and political engagement.

“This State Visit is yet one of President Tinubu’s Power Forward Diplomacy (PFD), one that obliterates obstacles but propels Nigeria into a new era of bold economic and political diplomacy,” Dare wrote. “A handshake across the Atlantic between two Global players in their own rights. Let the world take note: Brazil is therefore not a detour but a destination.”

NITDA, ATBU Launch Upskill Programme in Bauchi

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NITDA, ATBU Launch Upskill Programme in Bauchi

August 23, 2025 – The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in collaboration with the Final Year Committee of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), has launched a programme in Bauchi State aimed at boosting digital literacy and talent development among students.

The initiative, tagged “Upskill for Employability and Self Reliance,” is part of efforts to prepare young people for opportunities in today’s fast-changing digital economy.

According to NITDA, the programme will provide both foundational digital literacy and advanced technology skills, giving students the right tools for job creation, innovation, wealth generation, and self-reliance.

It is also expected to serve as a platform where final year students can receive practical guidance and insights to ease their transition into life after graduation.

Representing the Director General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, the Acting Director of the Digital Literacy and Capacity Building Department, Dr. Ahmed Tambuwal, said the project will help graduates become more competitive in a world driven by technology.

“It is important for graduates, regardless of their field of study, to acquire digital skills in order to remain relevant in today’s technology-driven economy,” he explained.

What Happened in Japan During President Tinubu’s Visit

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What Happened in Japan During President Tinubu’s Visit

During his official visit to Japan, President Bola Tinubu secured major deals aimed at boosting Nigeria’s economy and strengthening bilateral relations.

The visit took place under the platform of the Tokyo International Conference for African Development (TICAD9), where Tinubu also pushed for stronger global representation for Nigeria.

1. Japan pledged $5.5 billion economic support fund for Africa, with Nigeria expected to benefit significantly from the package.
2. Nigeria secured a $238 million loan facility from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to enhance its national power grid.
3. JICA also granted ¥1.75 billion to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to boost its diagnostic capacity.
4. Nigeria advanced discussions on a $190 million renewable energy loan facility backed by JICA, which will expand distributed renewable energy solutions in underserved communities.
5. President Tinubu used TICAD9 to lobby for Nigeria’s permanent membership on the United Nations Security Council, while also pushing for roles in the International Court of Justice and the International Maritime Organization.
6. The Japanese government designated Kisarazu City as the official hometown for Nigerians willing to live and work in the country, strengthening cultural diplomacy.

Speaking on the outcomes, Tinubu said Nigeria is committed to “building stronger energy systems, expanding opportunities for our people, and ensuring that our voice is heard globally.”

The Japanese government announced a special visa category for highly skilled, innovative, and talented young Nigerians who want to move to Kisarazu to live and work.

Artisans and blue-collar workers ready to upskill will also have the opportunity to benefit from this special visa arrangement, opening doors for economic migration and cultural exchange between both nations.

Lagos Launches Mushin Leather Hub to Create 10,000 Jobs, $250m Exports

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Lagos Launches Mushin Leather Hub to Create 10,000 Jobs, $250m Exports

August 23, 2025 – Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced the commissioning of a new leather processing and manufacturing hub in Mushin, describing it as a milestone in job creation and economic growth.

The facility was commissioned today by the First Lady, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who was honoured for her contributions to women’s empowerment and social investment.

Governor Sanwo-Olu explained that the hub has been named after Senator Tinubu, stating, “To honour her lifelong dedication to social investment and empowerment, we have named the facility after her. In that spirit, 70 percent of the jobs here are reserved for women and young people.”

The hub is expected to provide 10,000 direct jobs while benefiting more than 150,000 artisans across Lagos State. It will focus on the production of shoes, bags, belts, and garments at a scale beyond the capacity of small businesses.

The project aligns with the state’s industrialisation agenda and is aimed at reducing unemployment while boosting Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.

Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed that the initiative will end the export of hides and skins in raw form. “Our hides and skins will no longer leave Nigeria unprocessed. They will be transformed here into shoes, bags, belts, and garments proudly stamped ‘Made in Lagos, Made in Nigeria’,” he said.

With the hub’s full operation, Lagos expects to generate over 250 million dollars annually in export earnings. The Governor noted that beyond figures, the impact will be felt in communities. “The true success will be measured by the cobbler in Mushin who earns more for his craft, the tanner in Oko-Oba who now has steady work, and the young designer in Yaba who can finally take her brand to the world.”

This, he added, represents the promise of Lagos in creating opportunities that uplift households and strengthen the economy.

Borno State University Releases 2025 Recruitment Shortlist, Interview Schedule

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Borno State University Releases 2025 Recruitment Shortlist, Interview Schedule

August 23, 2025 – Borno State University, BOSU, Maiduguri has announced the release of the shortlisted names for its 2025 recruitment exercise.

According to the management, the full list of successful candidates has been published and is now available at the university premises. “Congratulations to all those who applied for Borno State University recruitment 2025 exercise,” the statement read.

The university noted that those whose names appear on the list have been invited for an interview. The date and time of the interview are included in the hardcopy pasted at the school.

Each entry on the list carries detailed information such as name, date of birth, gender, local government area, department, class of degree, phone number, and the specific post applied for. Candidates are advised to check the university notice board for their schedule.

TIC Katsina, Zakat and Waqf Board to to Empower Youth and Women

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TIC Katsina, Zakat and Waqf Board to to Empower Youth and Women

The Technology Incubation Centre (TIC) Katsina on Saturday, August 23, 2025, paid a courtesy visit to the leadership of the Katsina State Zakat and Waqf Board. The visit highlighted a shared vision between both institutions aimed at driving youth empowerment, women inclusion, and strengthening community resilience across Katsina State.

The meeting, which began with an opening prayer, was attended by officials from both organisations. The delegation from the Centre was led by the Centre Manager, who described the visit as timely, calling it an opportunity to deepen collaboration on critical areas affecting the people of the state.

He noted that the focus would be on empowering women and youth, especially those living in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps where the Zakat and Waqf Board plays a significant role in offering relief and livelihood support.

During his presentation, the Centre Manager outlined how the Centre’s innovation-driven programmes could complement the Board’s humanitarian and empowerment efforts in Katsina State.

He listed key areas of collaboration which include agritech and greenhouse farming for sustainable food production, renewable energy solutions to power small-scale businesses, welding and fabrication of agro-allied machines to support farmers, fintech and digital skills to improve financial inclusion, food and chemical processing for healthier products and job creation, as well as waste-to-wealth initiatives for recycling plastic, paper, and farm waste into marketable items.

The Centre Manager also congratulated the Chairman of the Board on his recent appointment by the Governor to head the State Committee on Malnutrition. He stressed that TIC’s pool of entrepreneurs in food processing could provide partnerships in the fight against malnutrition by promoting nutritious local food products and training women on healthy meal preparation.

Speaking on behalf of the Chairman, the Executive Secretary of the Zakat and Waqf Board commended TIC for its forward-thinking initiatives. He explained that the Centre’s contributions were already visible across the state, with many of its entrepreneurs supplying products to both government and private institutions.

As a former Commissioner in the State Ministry for Commerce and Industry, he confirmed that the Centre’s work had tangible impact on communities and youth development in Katsina State.

“The timing of this visit could not have been better,” he said. “We are ready to explore sustainable partnerships with the Centre that will uplift our people, especially those affected by insecurity in the state.”

To formalise the collaboration, the meeting agreed to establish a joint committee of seven members, with three representatives from TIC and four from the Zakat and Waqf Board. The committee will develop a roadmap for sustainable projects that align with the mandates of both organisations.

The meeting ended with a closing prayer and a pledge to pursue practical steps to bring lasting benefits to the state, particularly in uplifting women and youth through skills, empowerment, and nutrition-focused programmes.

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