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Liberia Studies NADF Model for Agricultural Enterprise Development Bank

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Liberia Studies NADF Model for Agricultural Enterprise Development Bank

A Liberian delegation led by the country’s Deputy Minister of Agriculture, David Akoi, has visited the National Agricultural Development Fund (NADF) in Nigeria to study its agricultural financing system.

The visit is part of Liberia’s preparations to establish its own Agricultural Enterprise Development Bank aimed at boosting food production and agribusiness growth.

The team had earlier toured farming sites in Kano and Jigawa States, where they met with local officials and observed agricultural practices. Their visit to NADF focused on understanding its operational structure, agricultural funding model, and strategies for supporting farmers and agribusiness investors.

Deputy Minister Akoi explained the purpose of the trip, saying, “We want to establish an institution that will be adequately funded and dedicated to financing agricultural initiatives. To achieve this, we need to learn from existing models like NADF to understand what has worked.”

In his response, NADF Executive Secretary, Mohammed A. Ibrahim, outlined the Fund’s financing approach. He revealed that 70% of its funding is directed towards debt financing, 20% to equity investment, and the remaining 10% is shared between grants and emergency support.

He clarified that NADF operates as a wholesale lending institution rather than a retail bank, targeting the entire agricultural value chain.

Mr. Ibrahim stated that the Fund supports diverse sectors including livestock farming, aquaculture, and the blue economy. He also stressed the importance of maintaining both profitability and social impact, noting, “We always have to balance the commercial and the social to make a great impact.”

He added that NADF extends its support to agricultural research institutions, state governments, and capacity building within the sector.

The Liberian delegation is expected to use the insights gained from this visit to shape the framework and policies of its proposed Agricultural Enterprise Development Bank, which will serve as a major financing hub for agriculture in Liberia.

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DESOPADEC Commences Bursary Disbursement to 8,000 Indigent Students

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DESOPADEC Commences Bursary Disbursement to 8,000 Indigent Students

August 14, 2025 – The Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, has commenced the disbursement of bursary awards to indigent students from its mandate areas in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

This initiative, driven by the leadership of DESOPADEC Board Chairman, Chief John Nani, and MD/CEO, Chief Festus Ochonogor, has sparked celebration among beneficiaries.

Speaking to DESOPADEC media crew, the Executive Director, Social Services, Chief Favour Izoukumor, highlighted the commission’s consistent commitment to uplifting communities in oil-producing areas.

“Over the years, DESOPADEC has been in the vanguard of putting smiles on the faces of her people in the oil-bearing communities, spanning from women and youths empowerment to scholarship awards, among others,” she said.

She explained that this initiative aligns with the M.O.R.E agenda of His Excellency Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, stressing that investing in education remains the best legacy for the youth as leaders of tomorrow.

Chief Izoukumor noted that the bursary award process was thorough, with an online application system open to all eligible candidates from host communities. “Ample opportunity was given to all eligible candidates to apply via an online platform after which selection was made, and today they are celebrating and thanking Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his magnanimity,” she added.

Providing further details, the Head of Department, Social Services, Mr. Jude Elaye Asiobe, revealed that eight thousand students are beneficiaries of this year’s bursary awards.

According to him, Urhobo students received the largest share with two thousand (2000) beneficiaries, followed by Itsekiri and Ijaw students with one thousand five hundred (1500) each. Ndokwa, Isoko, and Ika nationalities each received one thousand (1000) slots.

He commended the DESOPADEC Board for the timely disbursement of the bursary, emphasizing its impact on the lives of indigent students.

Some recipients expressed gratitude for the support. Miss Fega Obonobor and Miss Agbateyiniro Nina Bright both appreciated DESOPADEC for easing the financial challenges faced by students in the oil-producing communities.

They noted that the bursary will go a long way in alleviating their economic burdens and helping them focus more on their studies.

The bursary initiative stands as a significant step in promoting educational development, community empowerment, and economic relief within the oil-bearing areas of Delta State.

Apply: The LaunchPad at GITEX Nigeria 2025

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Apply: The LaunchPad at GITEX Nigeria 2025

August 14, 2025 – The LaunchPad has announced that applications are now open for exceptional female-owned startups to showcase their ventures at GITEX Nigeria 2025, which will be held in Lagos from 3-4 September, 2025. The program targets innovative businesses in the technology, creative, or impact sector.

Organizers said, “Are you a female-owned startup building an exceptional business in the technology, creative, or impact sector? Do you have a scalable solution, a clear vision, and the drive to grow your venture on Africa’s biggest innovation stage?”

Successful applicants will receive:
1. Exhibition space at GITEX Nigeria (Lagos).
2. Capital Readiness Clinics.
3. Access to global investors, accelerators and strategic partners.
4. Global media exposure and strategic introductions.

Eligibility:

The program is seeking ventures that meet the following criteria:
i. Ventures owned by African women.
ii. Operating in technology, creative economy, or impact.
iii. With a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and validated traction with scalable growth pathways.
iv. Eager to scale and gain access to catalytic capital and regulatory insight.

This is a unique chance for women entrepreneurs to connect with global networks, secure funding opportunities, and gain strategic exposure.

How to apply:

Interested applicants can apply by completing the form Here before the deadline.

INEC Announces Ad Hoc Staff Recruitment Ahead of Bye-Elections

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INEC Announces Ad Hoc Staff Recruitment Ahead of Bye-Elections

August 14, 2025 – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed the completion of recruitment and training of ad hoc staff for the upcoming bye-elections scheduled to hold on Saturday, 16th August 2025.

In a press statement released after its regular weekly meeting on Thursday, 14th August 2025, the Commission disclosed that preparations for the polls, including security and logistics arrangements, have been finalised.

“The recruitment and training of ad hoc staff as well as security and logistics arrangements have been concluded. The final consignment of sensitive materials will be delivered today as scheduled,” the statement read.

The bye-elections will be conducted in 16 constituencies across 12 states. These include two senatorial districts in Anambra and Edo States, five federal constituencies in Edo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Ogun, and Oyo States, and nine state constituencies in Adamawa, Anambra, Kaduna (2), Kano, Kogi, Niger, Taraba, and Zamfara States. The elections are being held to fill vacancies created by the resignation or death of serving members of the National and State Houses of Assembly.

INEC further announced that court-ordered re-run elections in Enugu South 1 State Constituency of Anambra State and the Ghari/Tsanyawa State Constituency of Kano State will take place alongside the bye-elections.

According to the Commission, all non-sensitive election materials have been delivered to the affected states, while election technology, including the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), has been configured for use. Political parties and candidates were reminded that campaigns officially end at midnight on Thursday, 14th August 2025.

“With less than 48 hours to the opening of polls, the Commission reiterates its appeal to all those involved in the bye-elections as political parties, candidates, voters, party agents, observers and the media to adhere strictly to the provisions of the law, regulations and guidelines. Doing so will ensure seamless processes,” INEC stated.

The Commission also announced that the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) will resume on Monday, 18th August 2025, with online pre-registration for eligible citizens.

Physical or in-person registration will follow a week later on Monday, 25th August 2025, at 811 INEC state and local government offices nationwide. Citizens can find the list and locations of these centres, along with dedicated telephone numbers for assistance, on the INEC website and other online platforms.

An active CVR Locator will go live on Sunday, 17th August 2025, to guide citizens on where to register. During the CVR, Nigerians can also transfer their voter registration within their state or to another state, and replace lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in line with the law.

INEC stressed that the CVR is open only to Nigerian citizens aged 18 years or older who have never registered before. “Double or multiple registration is a punishable offence under the law,” the Commission warned.

In addition, INEC announced the publication of personal particulars of candidates for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections. Seventeen political parties submitted their candidates’ nomination forms by the deadline of 6:00pm on Monday, 11th August 2025, when the portal automatically shut down. The particulars, including Form EC9, academic credentials, and other submitted documents, will be displayed in all INEC offices in the six area councils of the FCT starting Monday, 18th August 2025.

The 17 participating parties have nominated 637 candidates for 68 positions, including six chairmanship seats and 62 councillorship positions.

INEC urged Nigerians to scrutinise the published documents and reminded political aspirants that they can challenge any false information provided by candidates in the Federal High Court, in line with Section 29(5) of the Electoral Act 2022.

The final list of candidates will be released on 22nd September 2025, at least 150 days before the election date, in compliance with Section 32(1) of the Electoral Act 2022. The FCT Area Council election is scheduled for Saturday, 21st February 2026.

By confirming the completion of ad hoc staff recruitment, the delivery of materials, and the resumption of voter registration, INEC says it is confident that all arrangements are in place to ensure smooth and credible elections across the affected constituencies.

Apply: Katsina Local Govt ND/HND Scholarship, Hassan Usman Poly (Fully Funded)

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Apply: Katsina Local Govt ND/HND Scholarship, Hassan Usman Poly (Fully Funded)

August 14, 2025 – The Katsina Local Government Council has opened the application portal of the second phase of its fully funded scholarship programme for National Diploma and Higher National Diploma courses at Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic, Katsina. The initiative aims to support youth education and promote equal opportunities for all.

Speaking on the announcement, Katsina Local Government Chairman, Isah Miqdad, said, “We believe that education is a powerful tool that can create equal opportunities for all, regardless of their background. I am highly committed to fulfilling my responsibilities and will strive to introduce new ideas and innovations to lead by example and deliver the dividends of democracy to our community.”

Eligibility requirements:
1. Eligible only for indigenes of Katsina Local Government
2. Applicant must be between 18 and 35 years of age.
3. Those applying for Higher National Diploma (HND) must have completed their National Diploma (ND) and the result was signed on or before 13TH August, 2024.
4. Those applying for National Diploma (ND) must have JAMB for 2024 and relevant credits in their O-Level Examination(s) Results

The application period runs from Thursday, 14th August, 2025, to Sunday, 17th August, 2025.

How to apply:

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early to avoid missing the deadline. To apply, candidates should visit the official application link Here.

Apply: Tertiary Institution Staff Support Fund (TISSF) 10m Loan

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Apply: Tertiary Institution Staff Support Fund (TISSF) 10m Loan

August 14, 2025 – The Presidential initiative on Tertiary Institution Staff Support Fund (TISSF) has been officially launched by the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa today, August 14, 2025.

The program was created by the Federal Ministry of Education in partnership with the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) to improve the well-being, career growth, and financial stability of staff in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

Speaking at the launch, Dr. Alausa stated, “TISSF is designed to address systemic challenges faced by both academic and non-academic staff, ensuring they have the resources to thrive, grow professionally, and contribute meaningfully to their institutions and communities.”

The benefits include:
a. 0% loan interest rate
b. Loan Amount of ₦10 Million maximum
c. Up to 5 years re-payment term

TISSF offers interest-free loans and targeted support programs nationwide, covering:
1. Medical Support
2. Family Support
3. Transport Support
4. SME Support
5. Academic Advancement
6. Accommodation Support

Eligibility:

TISSF loan is limited to confirmed full-time academic or non-academic staff of eligible tertiary institutions, who are members of all relevant staff associations and have at least five years left before retirement.

According to the Ministry, this initiative is a strategic step to promote educational development, reduce financial stress among staff, and support economic empowerment in the education sector.

How to apply:

Interested staff can apply through the official application portal Here.

UNIABUJA Opens 2025/2026 Post-UTME, Direct Entry Registration

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UNIABUJA Opens 2025/2026 Post-UTME, Direct Entry Registration

August 14, 2025 – University of Abuja has announced the commencement of registration for the 2025/2026 UTME and Direct Entry (DE) Post-UTME screening exercise.

According to a statement signed by the Acting Registrar, Mrs. Roseline Adakayi, the online registration will run from Thursday, 14 August 2025, to Friday, 5 September 2025.

“All candidates who applied for admission into the University of Abuja for the 2025/2026 academic session, either as their first choice in the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) or through Direct Entry (DE), are requested to register online for the screening,” the statement read.

The university warned that applicants who fail to register within the stated period will not be eligible for admission for the academic session.

The eligibility criteria are as follows:
i. UTME applicants must score a minimum of 180 in their UTME Examination and meet the minimum cut-off points for their chosen programmes
ii. Applicants must have at least 5 credits including Mathematics and English in their O’Level result at not more than two (2) sittings
iii. Applicants must upload their O’Level results on the JAMB portal.
iv. Direct Entry applicants must have NCE, IJMB, ND, First Degree or HND. Candidates with JUPEB or NABTEB ‘A’ Level NEED NOT apply.
v. All Direct Entry applicants MUST upload their A Level result on the JAMB Portal and have it verified by the respective institutions from which they acquired the A level result.
vi. All applicants must be 16 years and above by Tuesday 30 September 2025.
vii. All applicants must ensure that the subject combination for their UTME aligns with the subject requirement for the courses they are applying for.
viii. Awaiting result candidates need not register for the post-UTME.

The Acting Registrar further outlined the application process:
a. Visit https://portal.uniabuja.edu.ng and click on “click here to apply”
b. Click undergraduate link on the left panel
c. Enter your JAMB Registration number and click on “get details”.
d. Complete the basic information page (please note: enter only valid phone number and email address) and click next.
e. On the payment review page, click on “Generate RRR” and this takes you to the next page.
All candidates are required to pay the sum of Two Thousand Naira (N2000) only for the screening.
f. Click “submit” and you will be redirected to remita payment page.
g. Enter credit or debit (ATM) card number and other details as appropriate and submit.
h. Enter “OTP code” sent to your phone and click ‘continue’ to complete your payment.
i. After successful payment, click on “main login” on the portal, enter your JAMB Registration number as username and your surname as password.
j. Click on “login to dashboard” and complete your registration.
k. Ensure that you print completed registration form and payment receipt.

The university also reminded prospective students that any applicant who wishes to change from one course to another must do so on the JAMB Portal before they can be considered for admission.

“Admission racketeering is strictly prohibited. Candidates found engaging in such activities will be disqualified,” the Registrar warned.

The screening process is part of the university’s effort to ensure transparency in admissions and to admit only candidates who meet its academic standards.

This announcement serves as a reminder for candidates to prepare their documents, meet all requirements, and complete registration on time to avoid losing their admission chances.

Sokoto Gov Disburses SOSMEDA Grants to Petty Traders, Small Business Owners

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Sokoto Gov Disburses SOSMEDA Grants to Petty Traders, Small Business Owners

Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has launched a financial grant program to support petty traders and small business owners across the state. The initiative, implemented through the Sokoto State Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (SOSMEDA), aims to boost entrepreneurship and promote economic growth.

According to the governor, the program offers grants of ₦100,000, ₦200,000, and ₦500,000 to eligible beneficiaries.

“We are committed to empowering our people, especially petty traders and small business owners, so they can expand their businesses and contribute to the state’s development,” Governor Ahmed Aliyu stated.

The grants are being distributed across all 23 local government areas of Sokoto State, ensuring that the benefits reach communities in both urban and rural areas. This move is expected to stimulate job creation, reduce poverty, and strengthen the local economy.

The Sokoto State Government noted that the initiative reflects its dedication to supporting small and medium enterprises, which play a vital role in economic development.

SOSMEDA confirmed that the selection process ensures fairness and transparency, targeting those who truly need the support.

Governor Aliyu emphasized that empowering small businesses is a key strategy for sustainable growth, saying, “When our people prosper, Sokoto State prospers.”

FG Assures Equal Development for All Regions During Enugu Visit

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FG Assures Equal Development for All Regions During Enugu Visit

Thursday, August 14, 2025 – The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that every part of Nigeria benefits from ongoing development projects.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated this during his visit to Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Mbah, on Thursday. The visit was part of the two-day Citizens’ Engagement Series and Federal Government Projects Tour of the South East.

“The Tinubu administration is committed to ensuring that no region is left behind in Nigeria’s development drive,” Idris said. He explained that the federal government’s policies are aimed at boosting infrastructure, improving public services, and promoting economic growth across all geopolitical zones.

Highlighting ongoing projects in the South East, the minister pointed to Enugu’s modern road networks, upgraded schools, and improved public facilities as visible results of the government’s plans.

“What we are seeing in Enugu – modern roads, upgraded schools, improved public facilities – is proof that President Tinubu’s policies are translating into real benefits for the people,” he noted.

Governor Peter Mbah welcomed the minister’s visit and expressed appreciation for the federal government’s support in advancing development in Enugu State.

The engagement series aims to strengthen communication between the government and citizens, while showcasing federal projects that align with the national economic agenda and regional growth initiatives.

FG to Begin Forest Guards Recruitment Project Under Renewed Hope Agenda

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FG to Begin Forest Guards Recruitment Project Under Renewed Hope Agenda

August 14, 2025 – The Federal Government has begun the process of establishing a forest guards programme as part of efforts to strengthen national security under the Renewed Hope agenda.

This development means that forest guard recruitment will soon commence in all states across the country.

President Bola Tinubu, on May 15, approved the creation of the National Forest Guard system as part of measures to address Nigeria’s growing security challenges.

According to the directive, each state is expected to recruit between 2,000 and 5,000 forest guards, depending on its capacity. Before this approval, at least 11 states had already set up forest guard units under various names but had not yet equipped or expanded them to meet national security targets.

Speaking at the inauguration of 46 new vehicles distributed to strategic commands and formations in Abuja, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, revealed that he had just attended a programme organised to start the forest guard establishment process.

Ribadu described the initiative as one of several steps being taken to protect communities and safeguard Nigeria’s natural reserves.

He said, “I tell you that what lies ahead is leadership that will transform and better Nigeria as part of the Renewed Hope agenda. I’m happy. Whenever things are improving in our country, the opportunity to be part of it is something we are all proud of and grateful to God for.

“Every day, something is happening, it is having a massive impact, and we are witnessing it daily. I’m just coming from an event to start the process of the forest guards. Every single day in our work, something new happens. Maybe quietly and silently, but it is happening.”

The National Security Adviser assured Nigerians that the country’s security affairs are being handled effectively.

“Just to let you know, dear Nigerians, your country is in good hands. Nigeria is handled very well and properly. And we can assure you that we will deliver. We never know what failure is, and this time also, you will also see the result of the work we put in, inshallah.”

Ribadu urged security personnel to stay motivated and committed to their responsibilities.

“Whatever it takes for us to have a peaceful, law and order country, go after the bad people, change things,” he said. He noted that “these last few years have been unprecedented in our country.”

From this development, potential applicants are advised to prepare, as the Federal Government is expected to announce the official recruitment process soon, with details on how the project will be implemented in each state.

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