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NPC, Keystone Bank Partner on Payment for Census Ad-hoc Staff

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NPC, Keystone Bank Partner on Payment for Census Ad-hoc Staff

August 18, 2025 – The Chairman of the National Population Commission, Hon. Nasir Isa Kwarra, fcison, on Monday, 18th August 2025, hosted a delegation from Keystone Bank Limited at the NPC Headquarters in Abuja. The delegation was led by the bank’s Executive Director, North and Public Sector, Alhaji Abubakar Usman Bello.

The key focus of the meeting was the upcoming Population and Housing Census and how to create a smooth and secure payment process for census functionaries. According to both parties, the collaboration is expected to enhance financial inclusion and ensure transparency in handling payments for thousands of ad-hoc staff across the country.

In his statement, Hon. Kwarra highlighted the importance of technology-driven solutions in the exercise, stressing that payment delays could affect the credibility of the census. He said, “Getting the payment system right is essential for the overall success of the census. Delays in payments for functionaries can significantly impact the effectiveness and outcomes of the census.”

The Commission assured that with Keystone Bank’s involvement, the process will be more reliable, with modern payment platforms designed to make transactions faster and safer. This step is seen as vital in boosting trust among the workforce and ensuring a successful national census.

Alhaji Bello, speaking on behalf of Keystone Bank, reiterated the bank’s readiness to support the government in achieving efficiency and accountability in financial transactions tied to the census exercise.

Also present at the meeting were the NPC Director-General, Dr. Osifo Tellson Ojogun, alongside other senior members of the management team.

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Gov Otti Inaugurates Abia Economic Management Team

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Gov Otti Inaugurates Abia Economic Management Team

August 18, 2025 – Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has officially inaugurated the Abia Economic Management Team, describing it as a major step towards sustaining economic growth in the state. The team will be led by the newly appointed Chief Economic Adviser, Dr Friday Kanu Ohuche, and made up of seasoned professionals drawn from key sectors of governance.

Governor Otti stated, “Today, we formally inaugurated the Abia Economic Management Team, a group of seasoned professionals led by our newly appointed Chief Economic Adviser, Dr Friday Kanu Ohuche. Over the past two years, we have focused on establishing a solid foundation through targeted investments in infrastructure, institutional reforms, and governance systems designed to serve our people efficiently. Now it is time to manage what we have built and ensure that our efforts translate into lasting measurable progress.”

The governor emphasized that economic development is central to good governance. According to him, “We believe that economic development is the bedrock of good governance. While politics may set the stage, it is the economy that determines whether the play succeeds or fails. I am confident in the technical expertise, strategic insight, and collaborative spirit of this team. Their input will be instrumental in shaping policy execution and optimising resource allocation to deliver tangible outcomes for the people of Abia.”

He also expressed gratitude to the members of the team, adding, “To every member of the team, thank you for stepping up to serve. The next two years are crucial, and together, we will deliver superior value to our employers, the good people of Abia State.”

The Abia State Economic Management Team is chaired by the Governor and led by the Chief Economic Adviser. It includes the Commissioners for Finance, Budget and Planning, Industry and SME, Trade and Commerce; the Chairman, Board of Internal Revenue; the Special Adviser on Internally Generated Revenue; the Director General and CEO, Office of Public-Private Partnership and Investment Promotion; the Special Adviser on Budget and Planning; the State Accountant General; the Director General, Ministry of Finance Incorporated; the Principal Secretary and Chief Strategy Officer; and the Technical Assistant to the Governor.

Sokoto Govt to Digitalise Basic and Sec Education in Two Years

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Sokoto Govt to Digitalise Basic and Sec Education in Two Years

Sokoto State Government has unveiled a plan to fully digitalise its basic and secondary education system within the next two years. Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto described the move as a major step to improve teaching quality, strengthen supervision, and ensure better policy implementation across schools.

The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Prof. Ahmed Ala, made this known in Sokoto, explaining that the new system will rely on the Education Management Information System, EMIS, to boost efficiency in record keeping and development planning.

According to him, the digital process is already showing results. “So far, the digital platform has enabled us to rank schools based on performance. Those scoring 14 points and above are rated very good, while those with six points or less are considered poor,” Ala stated.

He further disclosed that the Teachers Management Information System, TMIS, would be introduced to handle academic staff data, track classroom activities, and ensure transparency in teacher performance monitoring.

The commissioner said this transformation would not only improve educational management but also support sustainable growth in the state’s academic sector.

As part of the preparations for the digital education initiative, the Sokoto State Government has trained 2,500 teachers to strengthen competence and enhance learning outcomes for students.

Kano Inaugurates Initiative to Empower Out-of-School Children

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Kano Inaugurates Initiative to Empower Out-of-School Children

18th August, 2025 – Kano State Government has inaugurated an 18-member Kano State Out-of-School Children Education Initiative Committee as part of efforts to tackle the growing menace of children not attending school.

Since the beginning of the administration of Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, several interventions have been introduced by the government, development partners, and civil society organizations to reduce the rate of out-of-school children in the state.

Inaugurating the committee on Monday in his office, the State Commissioner of Education, Dr. Ali Haruna Makoda, explained that the initiative is designed to address the challenges of reaching children and youth who were never enrolled or who dropped out of the formal education system.

A statement issued by the Director of Public Enlightenment of the Ministry, Balarabe Abdullahi Kiru, quoted the Commissioner saying that the committee has been mandated to increase access to education, ensure re-enrollment of school dropouts, expand learning opportunities, and improve the quality of education across the state.

The statement further noted that the committee will also work on developing foundational skills, life skills, and employment opportunities for every child.

It added that part of its mandate is to address the root causes of out-of-school children by tackling poverty and reducing child labour, which remain major barriers to education.

“This committee is assigned to come up with a clear process of tackling security concerns and encouragement of community engagement to achieve better education in the state,” the statement added.

The committee will be chaired by the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Education Reform, Haladu Muhammad, and includes members drawn from government agencies, traditional institutions, academia, development partners, and civil society organizations.

Dr. Makoda urged the newly inaugurated members to work diligently and ensure that the state’s vision for better access to education is realized.

In his response, the Chairman of the committee, Haladu Muhammad, who was represented by the State Lead of PLANE (Partnership for Learning for All in Nigerian Education) FCDO, Umar Lawan, assured the Commissioner that the committee would remain committed to justifying the confidence reposed in them and deliver on the expectations of the state government.

Abia Leadership Academy Begins Second Cohort for 2025

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Abia Leadership Academy Begins Second Cohort for 2025

August 18, 2025 – The Abia State Government has announced that the second cohort of the 2025 Abia Leadership Academy will begin on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.

According to the notice, participants are expected to arrive at Government College Umuahia from 3pm with all necessary items already communicated during the screening and interview stages, as well as in their invitation emails and text messages.

Applicants who successfully wrote the test and passed through the interview sessions have been urged to stay updated. “Applicants are encouraged to constantly check their emails and text messages to know when they are due to resume at the Academy,” the statement added.

For inquiries, participants can contact Victory on 09066180182, Precious on 09049057280, or reach the Abia Leadership Academy hotline via 02013309549.

The announcement was signed by Prof. Kenneth Kalu, FCA, Secretary to the State Government.

Bayelsa State Govt Cancels Teachers Recruitment Over Irregularities

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Bayelsa State Govt Cancels Teachers Recruitment Over Irregularities

August 18, 2025 – Bayelsa State government officials have confirmed that the recent teachers’ recruitment exercise was cancelled due to irregularities.

Governor Douye Diri ordered the cancellation after findings showed that the process did not follow civil service rules and ignored an executive directive to employ 995 teachers based on a verified needs assessment.

Mr Irorodamie Komonibo, Chairman of the Teachers’ Recruitment Review Committee and Deputy Chief of Staff, explained on Radio Bayelsa’s Talk to Bayelsa programme that the process was flawed.

“The recruitment did not adhere to established guidelines,” he stated while appearing with other committee members.

Dr Stella Peremoboere-Ugolo, Acting Chairman of the Teacher Training and Certification Board, said the reforms proposed by the committee would introduce merit-based selection to strengthen teaching standards in public schools. She noted that the goal was to ensure transparency and fairness.

Hon Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, Commissioner for Information, appealed to applicants who were unsuccessful to remain calm. She emphasized that the review was carried out openly and added that teachers who had already been deployed before the suspension would be paid five months of salary arrears.

The decision followed reports that the Post Primary Schools Board (PPSB) failed to comply with directives, which raised concerns about fairness in the education sector.

Several callers to the radio programme praised the committee’s effort but also urged the government to discipline officials who disregarded executive instructions. The issue has highlighted the importance of accountability, public sector transparency, and education policy in Bayelsa State.

Tinubu Cuts Dialysis Cost from N50,000 to N12,000 in Federal Hospitals

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Tinubu Cuts Dialysis Cost from N50,000 to N12,000 in Federal Hospitals

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a major subsidy to reduce the cost of kidney dialysis for Nigerians. With this intervention, the price of each dialysis session has dropped from ₦50,000 to just ₦12,000, giving relief to thousands of citizens battling kidney-related diseases.

According to officials, the subsidy is already active in federal hospitals across the six geopolitical zones.

The hospitals currently implementing the program include:
1. Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Ebute-Metta, Lagos
2. Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja
3. University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan
4. Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri
5. University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), Maiduguri
6. Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta
7. Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Lagos
8. Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Azare
9. University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin
10. University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Calabar

Government officials confirmed that more federal medical centres and teaching hospitals will be added before the end of the year to expand healthcare access nationwide.

Commenting on the development, a health ministry source said, “This subsidy is part of the Renewed Hope Agenda and will ensure that kidney patients can access affordable treatment without fear of cost.”

It would be recalled that in 2024, President Tinubu also approved free cesarean sections for pregnant women in federal hospitals. That decision was described by experts as a bold step to improve maternal healthcare and reduce preventable maternal deaths.

Together, these healthcare reforms reflect the President’s commitment to ensuring no Nigerian is denied treatment because of financial challenges.

NJFP Ends Stipend Payments as Fellows Transition to Alumni Talent Hub

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NJFP Ends Stipend Payments as Fellows Transition to Alumni Talent Hub

The Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) has officially notified its fellows that stipend payments will no longer continue after the completion of the 12-month fellowship cycle.

In an email sent to participants, the programme explained, “We are writing to inform you that you will not be eligible for the August 2025 stipend payment on the Programme. This decision is based on the completion of your 12-month tenure as of July 2025, for which your stipend has been duly paid.”

The NJFP expressed gratitude to fellows for their involvement in the scheme. “We sincerely appreciate your active participation in the Programme and your patience during the rematching process from your previous Host Organizations,” the email stated.

Fellows have also been informed of the next phase after graduation from the programme. “Kindly note that you will be transitioned to the Alumni Talent Hub, where you will be provided with wrap around support for 6 months,” the notice said.

However, recipients are urged to understand that the Alumni Talent Hub does not include any financial support, but will serve as a platform for career opportunities and networking.

FG Reviews Agriculture Plans for 2022–2027 to Boost Food Security, Jobs

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FG Reviews Agriculture Plans for 2022–2027 to Boost Food Security, Jobs

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) has concluded a three-day validation workshop on the 2022–2024 Agricultural Joint Sector Review (JSR) Reports and the 3rd National Agrifood Systems Investment Plan (NASIP) for 2025–2027, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to agricultural transformation in line with national and continental development goals.

Declaring the workshop open, the Permanent Secretary of FMAFS, Dr Marcus Olaniyi Ogunbiyi, said the exercise was part of Nigeria’s alignment with the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), a framework adopted in 2003 to accelerate agricultural growth, food security, and economic development.

“The JSR and NASIP documents are expected to guide investment opportunities, identify financial gaps in the agrifood system, and provide direction for private sector and partners’ interventions,” Ogunbiyi explained.

He recalled that Nigeria had made progress in the African Union (AU) Biennial Review Reports, ranking fourth in 2017 and third in 2023. However, he admitted that challenges remain.

He pointed out that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration had intensified agricultural investment through the Renewed Hope Mechanisation Programme (RHMP), which deployed 2,000 tractors to cultivate more than 550,000 hectares of farmland. The initiative is expected to produce over 2 million metric tons of staple foods while creating jobs for youths and women.

Ogunbiyi also spoke on the recapitalisation of the Bank of Agriculture (BoA) with N1.5 trillion, the establishment of the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF), and the repositioning of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) to expand land development for food production.

He said these steps would boost agricultural finance, support agribusiness, and promote food security across the country.

As part of domesticating the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), the Permanent Secretary revealed that Nigeria had inaugurated an Agricultural Sector Working Group (ASWG) in April 2025 to coordinate collective action towards the implementation of the Kampala Declaration, which runs from 2026 to 2035 and succeeds the Malabo commitments.

He added that a 10-year Strategic Action Plan (SAP) covering 2026–2035 was already being developed to ensure ownership by state and non-state actors.

Delivering a goodwill message, Blessing Akhile, Food and Agriculture Programme Advisor at ActionAid Nigeria (AAN), called for inclusive agricultural development that puts smallholder farmers at the center.

“This validation workshop is a critical step in strengthening ownership, accountability, and joint action. The 3rd NASIP will not only serve as a framework for investment but also as a tool for transforming Nigeria’s agrifood system in line with AU commitments,” she said.

On his part, Mr. Ibrahim Tanimu, Director of Planning and Policy Coordination at FMAFS, commended stakeholders for their active participation during the three-day session. He noted that the outcomes of the workshop would guide policy formulation, investment decisions, and strengthen public-private partnerships (PPPs).

“I urge all stakeholders to continue to work together to ensure full implementation of the recommendations and investment plans for a robust agricultural sector in Nigeria,” Tanimu said, before officially declaring the workshop closed.

The validation workshop, which took place in Abuja from August 18 to 20, 2025, brought together government officials, international partners, donor agencies, civil society organisations (CSOs), and private sector actors.

Participants reviewed and validated key policy documents that will guide Nigeria’s agricultural development for the next three years while aligning with Africa’s long-term vision for food security and agrifood system transformation.

Delta Gov to Pay N15,000 to 10,000 Widows Beneficiaries Monthly

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Delta Gov to Pay N15,000 to 10,000 Widows Beneficiaries Monthly

August 18, 2025 – Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday, officially flagged off the widows’ welfare scheme, a landmark initiative aimed at supporting 10,000 widows across the state with financial and healthcare benefits.

The launch, held at the Events Centre in Asaba, represents a major part of the governor’s MORE Agenda to uplift vulnerable groups and ensure inclusive governance.

“I officially flagged off this administration’s Widows Welfare Scheme – Widows Alert – today, in consonance with the second pillar of the MORE Agenda, which is Opportunities for All,” Oborevwori stated during the ceremony.

“It is also in fulfilment of my promise to run an open and all-inclusive government that carries everyone along. In all, 10,000 beneficiaries have been enrolled to receive monthly stipend.”

The governor confirmed that each widow would receive a monthly stipend of ₦15,000, with three months’ arrears already approved for upfront payment. Beneficiaries are to get ₦45,000 immediately, while subsequent payments will be credited directly into their bank accounts.

“I have directed that three months’ arrears be paid upfront to the beneficiaries. Thereafter, the monthly stipend will continue to be paid to all enrolled widows,” he said.

Highlighting the difficult realities many widows face, Oborevwori added, “Being a widow is not by choice, and it will never be anyone’s choice. Beyond the pain of losing a loved one, widows are left with the burden of survival. That is why this administration is determined to improve their living conditions and give them hope.”

As part of the welfare package, the governor announced that all beneficiaries have been enrolled into the Delta State Contributory Health Insurance Scheme, with the government paying the monthly premiums.

This guarantees widows access to free healthcare in accredited hospitals and primary health centres across their communities. “This health insurance is even more important than the stipends because it ensures that no widow is denied medical care due to lack of funds,” Oborevwori explained.

He further stressed that the initiative is not tied to politics, religion, or ethnicity. “The widows’ welfare scheme is entirely non-political, cutting across all religious and ethnic divides in Delta,” the governor clarified.

He also revealed that the selection of the 10,000 widows was done through a transparent and community-driven process covering the 270 federal wards in the state. Community leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society groups played roles in verifying claims of widowhood to ensure fairness.

“As a government, we cherish every opportunity to contribute towards improving the lives of widows and other vulnerable individuals in our society,” the governor concluded.

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