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Second Phase of PAP Peacebuilding Training Kicks Off in Abuja

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Second Phase of PAP Peacebuilding Training Kicks Off in Abuja

The Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr Dennis Otuaro, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his strong backing of the programme’s peacebuilding efforts in the Niger Delta.

Speaking during the opening of a three-day workshop in Abuja on Wednesday, Otuaro said the president’s continued support shows his commitment to national peace, stability, and socio-economic development.

The workshop, which is the second batch of the Leadership, Alternative Dispute Resolution, and Mediation Training, is being held in collaboration with the Nigerian Army Resource Centre. The first session took place from July 16 to July 18, 2025, at the same venue.

Dr Otuaro said, “I am very grateful to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for believing in the peacebuilding initiative undertaken by the PAP in our villages and communities in the Niger Delta. Mr President’s support has been tremendous, and it shows his profound commitment and dedication to peace, stability and security for the accelerated development and socio-economic advancement in our region.”

He noted that President Tinubu’s involvement in the peace process reflects his genuine concern for the long-term development of the oil-rich region. “A better tomorrow for our region must be secured today through a deliberate peace process that is massively supported by the President,” Otuaro added.

Addressing the participants at the training, Otuaro described them as key stakeholders and partners in sustaining peace in the region. He explained that the workshop was specially designed to strengthen their leadership and mediation skills, enabling them to serve as peace ambassadors in their communities.

He urged all participants to stay focused during the sessions, adding that the knowledge they gain will be crucial in their roles.

“As stakeholders of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, you are worthy ambassadors in the peacebuilding project in our region, and I want you to know that we all have a responsibility to also support Mr President by working assiduously for sustainable peace in and around our communities,” he said.

The PAP administrator also appreciated the Office of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his vital role in the implementation of the programme’s objectives. He stated, “We are thankful for his tireless efforts at providing valuable inputs and interventions.”

Reaffirming his dedication to an inclusive peace process, Otuaro assured Niger Delta residents that his leadership will prioritize the empowerment of women, recognising that they too were affected by past conflicts. “Plans are ongoing to empower the region’s women because they were also casualties in the struggle,” he stated.

He concluded by encouraging all participants to take the training seriously and avoid distractions, stressing the importance of the knowledge to be gained in their efforts to maintain peace and support national development.

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Nigeria Police Force Recruitment Upcoming, PSC Warns Against Racketeering

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Nigeria Police Force Recruitment Upcoming, PSC Warns Against Racketeering

July 30, 2025 – The Police Service Commission (PSC) has issued a strong warning against any attempt to manipulate or compromise the upcoming recruitment exercise into the Nigeria Police Force.

The recruitment process, which will soon begin for Cadet Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) and Inspectors, is expected to follow strict guidelines to ensure transparency and fairness.

Recall that the Nigerian Senate earlier confirmed Nigeria Police recruitment of 30,000 personnel.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Federal Character Commission (FCC) in Abuja on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, the Chairman of the PSC, retired Deputy Inspector General of Police Hashimu Salihu Argungu, said the Commission would not tolerate any form of racketeering or recruitment fraud. He stressed that individuals involved in sharp practices during the recruitment process would be sanctioned.

According to DIG Argungu, “Any unacceptable behaviour, sharp practices or untoward acts during the recruitment processes will be resisted and deviants sanctioned.”

He led a PSC delegation that included Justice Paul Adamu Galumje, the Honourable Commissioner representing the Judiciary in the Commission, to the FCC headquarters, where they were received by the Acting Executive Chairman of the FCC, Hon. Kayode Oladele, Esq.

Argungu explained that although no date has been fixed for the recruitment, it was important to seek early collaboration with the FCC to maintain fairness in the recruitment of qualified Nigerians into the police force.

He said, “There must be transparency, accountability and equity in the recruitment process. The issue of discretion, waiver, or replacement negates the principle of fairness and equity, and so must be totally avoided.”

In his remarks, Hon. Kayode Oladele described the PSC Chairman’s visit as a sign of strong inter-agency collaboration. He noted that the visit reflects a mutual desire to uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and national cohesion as stated in the Nigerian Constitution.

“By working together to ensure fairness and balanced representation in law enforcement institutions, we are laying the foundation for a stronger sense of belonging, trust in public institutions, and sustainable peace across the country,” Oladele said.

He emphasized the importance of an inclusive police force, saying that such diversity would help restore trust in public service.

“A diverse and inclusive Police Force is better positioned to build public confidence, deter insecurity, and serve all citizens without bias thereby reinforcing the pillars of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he added.

Oladele reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to ensuring federal character compliance in the police recruitment process. He assured that the FCC would continue to support the PSC in building a transparent system that benefits all Nigerians.

News update (July 31, 2025):

Degree, HND or ND will be required for this upcoming recruitment.

Update 2:

Unofficial reports claim that the NPF recruitment portal will open on Monday, August 4, 2025.

FG Introduces Performance-Based Access to UBEC Funds for States

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FG Introduces Performance-Based Access to UBEC Funds for States

July 30, 2025—The Federal Government has begun reviewing the guidelines for states to access intervention funds from the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).

This was disclosed by the Minister of State Education, Dr. Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, during a government-citizen engagement organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Foundation in Kaduna on Wednesday.

Dr. Ahmad explained that the current procedures are being adjusted to allow for more flexibility. “We are reviewing the guidelines to make them more flexible for state governments,” she said.

She also added that the disbursement of UBEC funds will now be performance-based. According to her, “Going forward, the disbursement of funds to state governments would be tied to performance metrics to ensure quality control and value for money.”

FG Increases Scholarship Grants, Launches New Grants for Medicine, Vocational Studies

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FG Increases Scholarship Grants, Launches New Grants for Medicine, Vocational Studies

July 30, 2025—The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a major increase in scholarship grants for students across all levels of education, marking the most comprehensive reform of the national scholarship programme in over a decade.

Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, the Honourable Minister of Education, made the announcement in a statement on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Education. He described the initiative as a bold step toward building a knowledge-driven and inclusive nation, aligning closely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“In line with our unwavering commitment to building a more inclusive and knowledge-driven nation, I am pleased to announce a landmark reform of Nigeria’s national scholarship programme, our most ambitious overhaul in more than a decade,” Dr. Alausa said.

According to the Minister, the Federal Government has increased scholarship amounts by 50 percent across all academic levels to reduce the financial burden on families and improve access to quality education.

Under the revised structure, PhD students will now receive ₦750,000 annually, up from ₦500,000. Master’s students will receive ₦600,000, compared to the previous ₦400,000, while undergraduate, HND, and NCE students will get ₦450,000, up from ₦300,000.

“These enhanced awards apply to all major programmes, including the Nigerian Scholarship Award,” Dr. Alausa added.

As part of the reform, the Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) scholarship scheme has also been restructured.

While existing recipients will continue to receive their benefits, funds initially set aside for new international scholarships have been redirected to support two newly introduced scholarship categories under the national programme.

The first new category targets students in public polytechnics enrolled in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and vocational training, with a ₦1 billion fund allocated.

The second focuses on students studying Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Physiotherapy in public universities, also supported by a ₦1 billion fund. These categories are aimed at strengthening high-impact sectors essential to national growth.

Dr. Alausa emphasized the strategic focus of the programme, saying, “This initiative is a key pillar of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places education at the heart of Nigeria’s transformation into a $1 trillion economy.”

To ensure fairness and effective use of resources, a revised allocation model has been introduced. Under this framework, 50 percent of all scholarships will be awarded to undergraduate students, 25 percent to Master’s degree students, and 25 percent to PhD candidates.

Within each group, 70 percent of scholarships will support students in STEMM disciplines, while 30 percent will go to students in the Social Sciences. Additionally, 5 percent of all scholarships are reserved for students with disabilities.

The programme is expected to benefit over 15,000 students nationwide, including recipients of the Nigerian Scholarship Award, the Education Bursary Award, and the restructured BEA scheme. Implementation will be overseen by the Federal Scholarship Board in collaboration with an Inter-Ministerial Committee.

The committee, chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, includes representatives from the National Assembly, Federal Character Commission, Ministry of Women Affairs, and other relevant bodies to ensure transparency and accountability.

A total of ₦6 billion has been allocated for the 2025–2026 scholarship cycle, underlining the government’s intention to boost human capital development through targeted investment in education.

“We are not just funding education—we are building the human capital foundation for Nigeria’s long-term success,” the Minister stated. “I remain fully committed to ensuring this renewed scholarship programme delivers on its promise, and I call on all stakeholders, students, parents, institutions, and the broader public—to work with us in realizing the full potential of this transformative initiative.”

FG: Livestock Ministry Ready to Address Farmer-Herder Clashes

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FG: Livestock Ministry Ready to Address Farmer-Herder Clashes

July 30, 2025—The Federal Government has reaffirmed its plan to grow Nigeria’s livestock sector as a way to end the long-standing farmer-herder clashes and boost economic growth through agriculture.

This was revealed by Prof. Attahiru Jega, Co-Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Livestock Reforms, during a government-citizens engagement forum hosted by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Foundation in Kaduna on Wednesday.

Prof. Jega said, “The newly created Ministry of Livestock Development is central to President Bola Tinubu’s vision for transforming the livestock industry.” He noted that the ministry is focused on reducing conflict and improving productivity across the agricultural value chain.

He added that the implementation of this vision is being done without political bias. “We are ensuring inclusive stakeholder engagement,” he said, referring to the involvement of state governments, traditional rulers, pastoral communities, and other important groups in the sector.

The new approach is expected to support food security, rural employment, and agribusiness investment, all of which are high priorities for national development.

FG Unveils New Initiative to Train Young Farmers in Modern Agriculture

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FG Unveils New Initiative to Train Young Farmers in Modern Agriculture

The Federal Government has announced a new initiative to train young Nigerians in modern agriculture, in a move aimed at improving national food security and economic growth.

The Minister of State for Agriculture, Dr Aliyu S. Abdullahi, revealed this plan during the second day of an interactive session organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Foundation.

Dr Abdullahi stated that the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, is currently redesigning the curriculum to equip young farmers with modern skills and technology-based knowledge.

He said, “The synergy and collaboration of the Ministries of Agriculture, Environment, Water Resources, Livestock Development, and the Marine and Blue Economy are imperative for delivering on the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

This programme is expected to teach innovative farming practices, increase agricultural productivity, and attract more youths into agribusiness. The initiative also aims to boost job creation, improve food supply, and promote sustainable farming.

Dr Abdullahi also highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the livestock sector. According to him, the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development will create a breeding centre in each of the six geopolitical zones to support livestock production.

He emphasised the government’s focus on long-term development, noting that agriculture remains a major tool for economic diversification.

The interactive session continues with further discussions on national agricultural plans.

FG to Establish Cattle Breeding Centres Across Six Regions – Agric Minister

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FG to Establish Cattle Breeding Centres Across Six Regions – Agric Minister

The Federal Government has announced plans to set up cattle breeding centres in all six regions of Nigeria. This was revealed by the Minister of State for Agriculture, Dr Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, during the second day of the Citizens’-Government engagement and midterm assessment of the Tinubu administration held in Kaduna.

Dr Abdullahi said, “The synergy and collaboration of the Ministries of Agriculture, Environment, Water Resources, Livestock Development, and the Blue Economy are imperative for delivering on the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

The initiative is part of a wider effort to improve livestock farming and create long-term food security. The proposed centres are expected to support agribusiness, rural development, and improve animal husbandry.

Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, confirmed the announcement on Wednesday, July 30, 2025.

Apply: NICArb 2025 Membership Training Programme

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Apply: NICArb 2025 Membership Training Programme

The Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators (NICArb) has officially opened registration for its Membership Training Programme, designed specifically for professionals with a minimum of 15 years post-qualification experience.

The institute said the training, which will take place from August 11 to 15, 2025, aims to build a deeper understanding of arbitration processes. “We’re excited to announce our upcoming Membership training program, designed for professionals with 15 years of experience or more,” NICArb stated.

The programme will cover topics such as the legal framework for domestic and international arbitration, drafting enforceable awards, arbitration agreement negotiation, and the principles of the UNCITRAL Model Law.

Upon successful completion, participants will be able to “showcase and implement the skills, tools, and techniques taught in this course,” the organisers said.

The course is open to individuals who meet at least one of the following requirements:

1. Must be a Professional who is at least 15 years post-qualification OR
2. An Active Associate Member of NICArb.

The expected learning outcomes include:

i. UNCITRAL Model Law / Element of Comparative International Commercial Arbitration.
ii. Critical Evaluation of ICSID / Arbitral Challenges and Limitation from the Perspective of the losing party.
iii. Salients Point in Arbitration Award Writing
iv. Current Issues in International Arbitration.

Fees for NICArb members are N300,000 for physical attendance and N250,000 for virtual access. For non-members, physical attendance costs N400,000, while virtual participation is N350,000. All payments are non-refundable.

The physical venue is at 10, Adedeji Adekola Close, off Freedom Way, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos, while virtual sessions will be held via Zoom.

Payments can be made to CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF ARBITRATORS NIGERIA, Fidelity Bank, Account Number: 4011313646.

How to register:

Interested participants can register online Here. Successful attendees will be chartered and earn the post-nominal title “MCArb.”

Lagos E-Call Up System Enforcement on Lekki-Epe Corridor

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Lagos E-Call Up System Enforcement on Lekki-Epe Corridor

The Lagos State Government has announced the enforcement of the E-Call Up System for trucks operating along the Lekki-Epe Corridor, effective August 1, 2025. This move follows several months of strategic planning, public sensitization, and active stakeholder engagement.

According to the Ministry of Transportation, over 10,000 trucks have already been registered under the new system, with additional trucks currently undergoing the onboarding process.

In preparation for the rollout, the government has equipped seven designated truck parks and reduced the park usage fee from N12,500 to N10,000.

Commissioner for Transportation, Lagos State, stated, “We have implemented critical recommendations to ensure a smooth transition, including free system testing and guidance for truck drivers on registration and operations. This is part of the familiarization exercise across all approved parks.”

The initiative, developed in collaboration with E-Call Up Technologies, is expected to ease traffic congestion, eliminate illegal parking, and enhance regulatory compliance.

It also aims to protect road infrastructure, improve road safety, and boost economic activity across the corridor.

“The enforcement of this system is a major step toward achieving a smarter transportation network. We urge all stakeholders to complete their registration and cooperate with agencies involved,” the commissioner added.

Authorities emphasized that the E-Call Up System is designed to bring order and efficiency to truck operations, supporting logistics optimization and better traffic management along the strategic Lekki-Epe route.

This development aligns with broader efforts to improve urban mobility and reduce transportation-related delays in Lagos.

FG Announces New Date for NREIF 2025 in Abuja

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FG Announces New Date for NREIF 2025 in Abuja

The Federal Government has officially announced a new date for the Nigeria Renewable Energy Innovation Forum (NREIF) 2025. The event will now be held on October 14th and 15th, 2025, in Abuja.

This change comes “as a direct response to the heightened national and global interest, increased registrations, and expanded partnership conversations about the Forum,” according to the organisers.

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has opened participation to a wide range of stakeholders. These include vertically integrated renewable energy companies, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OeM), local innovators, innovation hubs, investors, government agencies, development finance institutions, and private sector players.

Interested participants and sponsors can find more details at rea.gov.ng/nreif2025.

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