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FIRS Extends E-Invoicing Compliance Deadline for Large Taxpayers

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August 11, 2025 – The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has announced a three-month extension for the onboarding and transmission of electronic invoices under the National E-Invoicing and Electronic Fiscal System (EFS) regime. The extension applies to large taxpayers, defined as businesses with an annual turnover of five billion naira and above.

According to the FIRS, the e-invoice platform, also known as the Merchant-Buyer Solution, went live on 1 August 2025. However, many eligible businesses experienced operational challenges in meeting the original compliance deadline. In response, the FIRS management has approved a new deadline of 1 November 2025.

“This extension is granted in the spirit of encouraging voluntary compliance with tax laws and to allow for a more inclusive and seamless transition to the e-invoicing regime,” the statement from the Office of the Executive Chairman read.

Under the new arrangement, all large taxpayers must complete onboarding, integration, and begin real-time transmission of e-invoices to the FIRS through the MBS platform before the revised deadline.

The extension is aimed at improving efficiency in tax administration and enhancing transparency in business transactions across Nigeria.

The Executive Chairman, Zacch Adedeji, Ph.D, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to providing technical assistance, stakeholder engagement, and continuous training to support taxpayers. He urged eligible companies to use the additional time to finalise their system integration and meet all compliance requirements.

The FIRS further encouraged taxpayers to access technical support and guidance through its official e-invoicing portal at www.einvoice.firs.gov.ng.

The public notice, issued from the FIRS headquarters at 20 Sokode Crescent, Zone 5 Wuse, PMB 33, Garki Abuja, also highlighted the government’s intention to modernise tax collection systems and strengthen the Nigerian economy through the adoption of technology-driven solutions.

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Ebonyi to Begin Intensive Vocational Training of 100 Youths

August 11, 2025 – Ebonyi State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering youths through targeted vocational training, with Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru stressing that “promotion of vocational and technical education” remains a key driver in overhauling the education sector.

The Governor noted that one of the most pressing challenges in many economies is the mismatch between the skills taught in schools and those required in the job market. He explained that vocational and technical training addresses this gap by focusing on practical, market-ready competencies.

“In today’s rapidly evolving world, youth empowerment through vocational training has become more crucial than ever,” the Governor stated. He emphasised that traditional education, while important, is no longer sufficient on its own to prepare young people for the demands of the modern workforce.

To ensure results, the Ebonyi State Government has partnered with professional bodies to deliver structured trainings through the Ministry of Skill Development and Job Creation. In November 2024, in collaboration with NASENI, 100 youths were trained in modern electrical installation techniques and provided with necessary tools.

Earlier in August 2024, the Ministry partnered with BERWO to skill youths in fashion design, hairdressing, barbing, shoemaking, and almaco glass construction. Similar efforts in agribusiness training were carried out in Enugu to strengthen practical application of skills.

In the next four days, the Ministry will commence another three-month intensive vocational training programme for 100 Ebonyi youths in ICT, construction, building, and production.

The curriculum will include data analysis, video editing, graphics design, photography, solar and CCTV installation, interior decoration, cream production, candle making, wood cladding, paint production, wig revamping, and entrepreneurship. Successful participants will receive empowerment support upon completion.

Governor Nwifuru said these initiatives are designed to “equip Ebonyi youths with essential skills that align with market demands,” while also tackling unemployment, promoting entrepreneurship, and driving technological and industrial growth.

He added that fostering lifelong learning and adaptability is crucial for sustainable economic development in the State.

These programmes, according to him, are in line with The People’s Charter of Needs, a guiding principle his administration has implemented point by point, aimed at positioning Ebonyi youths for global competitiveness and boosting the State’s overall economic growth.

Bauchi BICTDE, NDPC to Hold Data Protection Awareness Campaign

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August 11, 2025 – Bauchi State, through the Bureau for ICT and Digital Economy (BICTDE), in partnership with the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), will host a Data Protection Awareness Campaign on August 13, 2025.

The event will follow the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between NDPC and the Bauchi State Government, described as a major step toward strengthening data governance and privacy practices.

Speaking on the development, officials noted that the collaboration reflects a strong commitment to safeguarding personal data in line with national and international standards. “This partnership is about building trust and ensuring that the rights of our citizens are protected in the digital age,” a representative said.

The campaign will focus on educating government employees, empowering citizens, and promoting cybersecurity best practices. It will be led jointly by BICTDE and NDPC, targeting participants from both public and private sectors.

A short but impactful training session will be held during the programme, aimed at equipping attendees with practical knowledge on principles, best practices, and the legal frameworks guiding data protection.

Organisers explained that this approach is intended to reduce risks of data breaches, improve compliance with regulatory requirements, and encourage responsible handling of information.

“This initiative will help create a secure and digitally empowered environment for our people and businesses,” the statement added.

The Bauchi State Government emphasised that the event is part of broader efforts to align the state’s digital policies with global cybersecurity and data privacy standards.

PTAD Pays N5.12b Pension Arrears to 90,689 DBS Pensioners

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August 11, 2025 – The Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) has announced the payment of pension arrears totalling ₦5,119,328,000 to 90,689 Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS) pensioners across four pension departments.

According to PTAD, this move is part of its ongoing commitment to clear outstanding pension liabilities as funds are released by the Federal Government.

In a public statement, PTAD said the payment reaffirms its dedication to pensioners’ welfare. “We have finalized the disbursement of Five Billion, One Hundred and Nineteen Million, Three Hundred and Twenty-Eight Thousand Naira Only to 90,689 pensioners across the four pension departments,” the agency stated.

The breakdown of the payment is as follows:
1. CIPPD – 8,626 pensioners – 1 month – ₦276,032,000
2. PPD – 9,681 pensioners – 2 months – ₦619,584,000
3. CSPD – 12,773 pensioners – 1 month – ₦408,736,000
4. PAPD – 59,609 pensioners – 2 months – ₦3,814,976,000
Total – 90,689 pensioners – ₦5,119,328,000

PTAD said the payments are in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, aimed at ensuring that all pensioners receive their due entitlements without delay.

Image of breakdown of the payment:

Ibom Ideas Project Releases Admission List, Moves Classes Online

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The Ibom Ideas Project has released its admission list for new trainees. In a statement, organisers said, “Congrats to all admitted trainees… Your digital journey starts now!”

They confirmed that classes will move online via Google Meet from this week as the University of Uyo will be using the facility for exams.

Trainees were advised to “stay glued to your WhatsApp group for all updates.” Applicants can check their names and courses Here.

CDCFIB Closes Recruitment Portal After Application Deadline

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August 11, 2025 – The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) has officially announced the closure of its recruitment application portal. As of Monday, 11 October 2025, the portal is no longer accepting applications.

In a statement, the CDCFIB expressed appreciation to all applicants for their interest and dedication to serving the country. “We thank all applicants for their interest and commitment to serving with honour, integrity and national pride,” the Board stated.

The announcement follows the earlier decision by the Office of the Secretary, made public in a press release on 3 August 2025, to extend the application deadline. Initially set to close on 4 August 2025, the portal remained open until Monday, 11 August 2025, giving applicants additional time to complete their submissions.

According to the CDCFIB, the list of shortlisted candidates will be released once the review of all applications is completed.

The Board advised all candidates to be patient and await official communication regarding the next stages of the recruitment process.

The statement also warned applicants to be cautious during this period. It is expected that fraudsters will use this period to mislead unsuspecting applicants. Therefore, all applicants should only await official information from the Board.

Attached is the official announcement.

New details:

The total applications is 1,908,870. Below is the official applications by state from highest to lowest.

1. kogi – 116,038 Applicants
2. kaduna – 114,408 Applicants
3. benue – 110,382 Applicants
4. kano – 89,285 Applicants
5. niger – 79,455 Applicants
6. kwara – 78,382 Applicants
7. katsina – 76,727 Applicants
8. nasarawa – 76,482 Applicants
9. adamawa – 68,246 Applicants
10. oyo – 67,150 Applicants
11. plateau – 63,308 Applicants
12. osun – 62,302 Applicants
13. borno – 56,851 Applicants
14. ondo – 53,880 Applicants
15. akwa-ibom – 52,398 Applicants
16. bauchi – 52,018 Applicants
17. imo – 48,227 Applicants
18. taraba – 45,118 Applicants
19. gombe – 44,957 Applicants
20. jigawa – 44,369 Applicants
21. ogun – 42,037 Applicants
22. enugu – 41,204 Applicants
23. yobe – 38,091 Applicants
24. kebbi – 34,546 Applicants
25. edo – 33,530 Applicants
26. anambra – 32,880 Applicants
27. ekiti – 32,653 Applicants
28. cross river – 32,141 Applicants
29. abia – 31,646 Applicants
30. sokoto – 31,104 Applicants
31. federal capital territory – 30,267 Applicants
32. zamfara – 29,229 Applicants
33. delta – 27,933 Applicants
34. ebonyi – 23,574 Applicants
35. rivers – 22,183 Applicants
36. lagos – 14,212 Applicants
37. bayelsa – 11,657 Applicants

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted shortly with further instructions. Please monitor your email and text messages over the coming weeks for notifications. We also encourage you to regularly check this portal for important updates.

TETFund Allocates N1.6 Trillion to Nigerian Tertiary Institutions

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August 10, 2025 – The Tertiary Education Trust Fund has announced a record allocation of N1.6 trillion for interventions across Nigeria’s tertiary institutions, the highest in its history. The fund, generated from the 3% education tax on company profits under the TETFund Act, will be used to meet urgent needs in education, healthcare training, energy infrastructure, and student support.

This was disclosed by Aminu Bello Masari, Chairman of TETFund’s Governing Board and former Governor of Katsina State, during a media briefing in Katsina on Sunday. Masari provided a detailed breakdown of how the funds are being allocated, stressing the importance of transparency and impact.

“The interventions are demand-driven. Institutions write to us, and we approve projects for them based on their needs and available resources,” Masari said.

From the total sum, N460 billion, representing 40% of the allocation, has been designated for direct interventions in tertiary institutions nationwide. In each state, one university, one polytechnic, and one college of education have been selected to benefit from these funds.

A further N225 billion has been disbursed to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund to support the Federal Government’s student loan scheme, aimed at expanding higher education access for financially disadvantaged students.

To tackle energy challenges, N70 billion has been allocated for solar and gas-powered generation facilities in campuses, reducing dependence on unstable grid electricity and improving learning environments.

N25 billion has also been set aside to boost campus security through street lighting and other safety infrastructure.

Addressing Nigeria’s shortage of skilled healthcare professionals, TETFund has committed over N100 billion to strengthen medical sciences training. This move follows President Bola Tinubu’s directive to curb the migration of medical personnel and rebuild capacity in the healthcare sector.

“The President is worried about this trend and its impact on the healthcare system,” Masari said. “He wants measures in place to enable recovery through deliberate policies, such as this ongoing TETFund intervention.”

As part of this healthcare initiative, three institutions in each geopolitical zone have received N4 billion each to expand facilities and programmes in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, laboratory science, and other critical areas. The aim is to double Nigeria’s healthcare workforce and improve service delivery.

Masari emphasised that accountability remains a priority, with TETFund employing a robust monitoring and evaluation framework supported by independent consultants.

He noted that interventions are implemented annually at both state and zonal levels to ensure equitable distribution and significant results across the country. “This will greatly improve healthcare delivery nationwide,” Masari stated.

Fintiri’s PAWECA Exam Successful Candidates List Released

August 10, 2025 – The list of successful candidates who wrote the recent Fintiri’s PAWECA (Poverty Alleviation and Wealth Creation Agency) Skills and Technical Training exam has been released.

According to PAWECA, “Names will be published on Monday, 11th August 2025.” Beneficiaries of the government training scheme are advised to visit their local government secretariat to check for their names.

The PAWECA programme is part of efforts to reduce unemployment and promote skills development in Adamawa State. Officials noted that only those who passed the exam will proceed to the training stage, which focuses on practical skills and technical knowledge for self-reliance.

News update (August 11, 2025):

The Office of PAWECA Director General, Dr. Michael Zira has announced that there are 10,000 shortlisted candidates for the upcoming skills acquisition training.

Apply: African Nutrition Leadership Programme 2026 (in South Africa)

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August 10, 2025 – Applications are now open for the African Nutrition Leadership Programme (ANLP) 2026, aimed at strengthening leadership capacity in nutrition across Africa.

The programme, hosted by North-West University in South Africa, focuses on developing both individual and institutional leadership skills for early and mid-career nutrition professionals, as well as related stakeholders.

According to organisers, “The purpose of the African Nutrition Leadership Programme is to develop individual and institutional leadership capacity at various levels in nutrition across the African continent.”

The 2026 edition will run from 10 to 20 March at the Elgro River Lodge in South Africa.

The ANLP offers a 10-day leadership development programme alongside tailor-made leadership and functional capacity development courses that are customised to stakeholder and institutional needs.

Applications are particularly encouraged from individuals in under-represented regions such as the Indian Ocean Islands, northern Nigeria, Tunisia, Algeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

“We encourage applications from mid-career individuals working and living in Africa but especially from under-represented countries or regions,” the organisers stated.

Applications close on 5 September 2025 at 13:00 CAT.

How to apply:

Interested candidates must complete the official African Nutrition Leadership Programme 2026 application form Here.

As part of the process, applicants are required to upload a short video at the final step. ANLP added that if demand matches previous years, a second programme may be held in November 2026.

Apply: Greencode Board of Trustees and Advisory Committee Volunteers

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August 10, 2025 – Green Concern for Development (GREENCODE), a national non-governmental organisation focused on sustainable development, good governance, humanitarian response, and climate justice in Nigeria, has announced a call for expressions of interest for two key voluntary roles.

The organisation is seeking qualified and passionate professionals to serve as members of its Board of Trustees (BoT) and International Advisory Committee (IAC).

In a statement, GREENCODE explained, “We are inviting expressions of interest from dedicated professionals in the fields of medical practice and accounting, with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. Female participation is highly encouraged.”

These roles are non-paid but highly impactful for humanitarian and climate justice causes in Nigeria and beyond.

Eligibility criteria for the Board of Trustees are as follows:
1. Must be a recognised professional in Medicine, Research, or Accounting.
2. Proven integrity, strategic thinking, and strong commitment to humanitarian and development work.
3. Must not hold any political office.
4. Applicants must be residents or indigenes of North West, North East, North Central, South-South, South West, or South East regions.
5. Prior board or leadership experience in the non-profit sector is an advantage.

Greencode added that while BoT members must be residents or indigenes of Nigeria, International Advisory Committee members can come from any part of the world and from any professional field.

Roles and responsibilities of the Board of Trustees include:
i. Provide strategic guidance and oversight in line with GREENCODE’s mission and vision.
ii. Support resource mobilisation, networking, and institutional governance.

Roles and responsibilities of the International Advisory Committee include:
i. Crisis and risk management.
ii. Capacity strengthening.
iii. Monitoring and oversight (advisory only).
iv. Resource mobilisation and fundraising support.
v. Technical and thematic expertise.

The deadline for applications is 20 August 2025.

How to apply:

Interested candidates should send their updated CV, a brief cover letter, and one copy of their professional certificate to info@greencodeng.org.