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Kwara Govt to Resolve Unpaid Salary, Pension Complaints July 31–Aug 4

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Kwara Govt to Resolve Unpaid Salary, Pension Complaints July 31–Aug 4

July 30, 2025—The Kwara State Government has announced a special intervention aimed at resolving outstanding complaints from civil servants and pensioners over delays in salary and pension payments.

In a statement released by the State Commissioner for Finance, Dr Hauwa Nuru, the government disclosed that a daily troubleshooting session will be held in all 16 local government headquarters across the state.

The session will run from Thursday, July 31 to Monday, August 4, 2025, excluding Sunday, August 3.

“All affected individuals, serving civil servants and pensioners, are required to appear in person with the following documents/details: BVN; NIN; KWSRRA Number; PSN Number; bank account statement; employment letter; work/pension identity card; and other details they consider relevant to resolve their complaints,” the Commissioner said.

She explained that the sessions will be led by cabinet members assigned to each local government and supported by technocrats from key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.

Dr Nuru further clarified, “While majority of the civil servants and pensioners have no issues with their salary or pension, we acknowledge that there are isolated cases of individuals who still have pending complaints affecting seamless payment of their salary and pension. This session is to resolve all such pending issues once and for all, in line with the commitment of the Governor that every worker or pensioner deserves their pay at the right time.”

The initiative aims to promote financial transparency, efficient salary payment, and ensure all state employees and retirees are treated fairly. The government also encourages individuals with unresolved payment issues to attend the sessions with complete documentation.

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Enugu East LGA Extends Undergrad Bursary Deadline After 700 Applications

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Enugu East LGA Extends Undergrad Bursary Deadline After 700 Applications

The Enugu East Local Government Area has provided a new update on its ongoing Undergraduate Bursary Award scheme. According to information from the council, over 700 applications have already been received from different communities across the LGA.

However, after reviewing the submitted entries, it was discovered that some communities are still underrepresented in the process.

As a result of this observation, the Chairman of Enugu East LGA has ordered an extension of the bursary registration deadline. He stated that this decision was made to “ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities for all eligible students.”

This move is expected to help create fair access to education support, especially for students in areas that are lagging behind in the registration process.

In addition, local authorities have announced that extra sensitization activities will take place to increase awareness in the underrepresented communities. These efforts aim to make sure that more students can participate and benefit from the scheme.

“This notice serves to inform the general public and undergraduate students of Enugu East LGA, both indigenes and residents, who have registered and verified for the maiden edition of the bursary award, that the program is still ongoing,” the council shared.

It was also confirmed that the bursary disbursement will begin soon after the newly extended registration deadline. Students who are yet to register are encouraged to do so without delay.

Further announcements, including the revised registration timeline, will be shared through local communication channels.

FG Disburses N2.1bn Conditional Cash Transfer in Akwa Ibom

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FG Disburses N2.1bn Conditional Cash Transfer in Akwa Ibom

The Federal Government has disbursed N2.1 billion under the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) scheme to vulnerable residents in Akwa Ibom State between January and July 2025. This initiative is part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at supporting low-income households.

Godwin Akpan, the Akwa Ibom State Focal Person for the National Social Investment Programme, revealed this during the official launch of the programme in Uyo, the state capital.

He explained that Akwa Ibom State was first included in the CCT scheme in 2019 with 29,117 households across nine local government areas. In December 2023, the programme was expanded to cover all 31 local government areas of the state.

“The Conditional Cash Transfer is a key part of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Akpan said. “We are committed to ensuring that the funds get to those who need it most.”

Helen Obareki, Coordinator at the Office of the First Lady, praised President Tinubu for prioritising vulnerable Nigerians. She highlighted the value of the programme as a long-lasting legacy that restores hope in governance.

“I have always said that, even though we are currently embarking on numerous audacious projects of deep economic significance, the greatest legacy I hope to leave behind, will be our impact in the lives of the people, especially the most vulnerable and in the process, help restore their faith in the noble ideals of government and governance,” Obareki stated.

She affirmed her continuous support for the President’s social investment policies, emphasizing how they bring real empowerment to households in need. She also acknowledged the state’s additional efforts in business and agricultural empowerment, as well as in settling pensions and gratuities.

“We have paid over N60 billion out of a N98 billion backlog in gratuities from 2012 to 2023,” she noted, encouraging beneficiaries to wisely use the funds and support future government projects.

Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, Emem Ibanga, expressed appreciation to Governor Umo Eno for prioritising the welfare of citizens. According to her, the government has built and inaugurated over 205 ARISE compassionate homes for the vulnerable under the current administration.

Key stakeholders also gave goodwill messages. Linus Nkan, Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning; Inibehe Silas, Commissioner for Women Affairs; and Utibe Nwoko, Chairman of Ika Local Government Council, each commended President Tinubu for integrating social security into national development strategies.

They promised to continue working as agents of change to uplift vulnerable communities.

One of the beneficiaries, Joseph Emmanuel, a visually impaired man from Ikot Ekpene, thanked both federal and state governments for the transparency in the selection process.

“I’m grateful that the programme has reached people like me. It shows the system can truly work,” he said.

The programme has reached about 28,000 individuals across Akwa Ibom’s 31 local government areas.

Each beneficiary received a debit card preloaded with N75,000 to cover three months of financial support.

Akwa Ibom Govt Warns Against Fake Conditional Cash Grant Website

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Akwa Ibom Govt Warns Against Fake Conditional Cash Grant Website

The Akwa Ibom State Government has warned residents to be cautious of a fake online message claiming to offer a conditional cash grant under the name of the state.

The fraudulent message includes a link to “grant.akwaibom.claim-itz.online” and features the image of the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs alongside official state insignia.

In a press release dated 30 July 2025, the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, stated, “The message, which includes a fraudulent link, is false, misleading, and a scam.” He stressed that the public should avoid clicking the link or submitting any personal details.

The state government confirmed that it does not run any cash grant programme through unofficial websites or third-party platforms.

“All official programmes and public welfare initiatives of the State Government are announced through verified government channels, including the official website or portal,” the statement said.

The government urged residents to stay vigilant, as digital financial scams are increasing across the country, targeting unsuspecting users.

TETFund National Research Fund (NRF) 2025 N7.5b Grant Cycle Call for Concept Notes

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TETFund National Research Fund (NRF) 2025 N7.5b Grant Cycle Call for Concept Notes

The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has announced the launch of the 2025 Grant Cycle for its National Research Fund (NRF), following the approval of N7.5 billion by the Federal Government.

This new cycle begins with a call for the submission of Concept Notes from researchers across Nigeria’s public tertiary institutions.

This development comes after the conclusion of the 2024 Grant Cycle, where TETFund awarded nearly N4.25 billion to support 158 research projects. According to the agency, the new funding represents a strategic move to promote research and innovation that can tackle Nigeria’s development challenges.

“The process of accessing the 2025 NRF Grant starts with the Call for Concept Notes,” TETFund said in an official release. It added that only Principal Investigators (PIs) whose Concept Notes are successful will be invited to submit full research proposals.

The Concept Note stage serves as the first screening step in a multi-layered application process designed to ensure only high-impact and fundable projects are selected for the full grant. This aligns with the goal of boosting national productivity and supporting sustainable development through focused academic research.

The NRF 2025 Grant Cycle covers a wide range of thematic areas grouped under three broad categories: Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS), Science, Engineering, Technology and Innovation (SETI), and Cross-Cutting (CC) issues.

a. Category 1
Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS)
Thematic Area 1 – Citizenship and National Integration
Thematic Area 2 – Conflict, Defense and Security
Thematic Area 3 – Economic Development and Globalization
Thematic Area 4 – Education and Human Capital
Thematic Area 5 – Gender, Equity and Social Inclusion
Thematic Area 6 – Governance, Politics, Law and Ethics
Thematic Area 7 – History, Culture and Identities
Thematic Area 8 – Humanities, Social Sciences, Technology and Business Interface
Thematic Area 9 – Languages, Literatures and Media
Thematic Area 10 – Population and Migration
Thematic Area 11 – Social Development and Welfare
Thematic Area 12 – Tourism, Sports and Recreation

b. Category 2
Science, Engineering, Technology and Innovation (SETI)
Thematic Area 13 – Agriculture and Food Security
Thematic Area 14 – Geosciences
Thematic Area 15 – Health and Social Welfare
Thematic Area 16 – Industry and Innovation
Thematic Area 17 – Information Technology, Computing and Telecommunications
Thematic Area 18 – Power and Energy
Thematic Area 19 – Science and Engineering
Thematic Area 20 – Space Science and Technology
Thematic Area 21 – Sustainable use of Natural Resources and Terrestrial Ecosystems
Thematic Area 22 – Transport and Infrastructure
Thematic Area 23 – Water and Sanitation

c. Category 3
Cross-Cutting (CC)
Thematic Area 24 – Blue Economy
Thematic Area 25 – Clean and Affordable Energy
Thematic Area 26 – Entrepreneurship and Wealth Creation
Thematic Area 27 – Environment, Housing, Urban and Regional Development
Thematic Area 28 – Innovation and Technology in National Defence Capabilities
Thematic Area 29 – Resource Governance
Thematic Area 30 – National System of Innovation

Eligibility:

TETFund stated that eligible applicants must meet specific criteria to access the research fund. These include academic ranking, institutional affiliation, and team structure.

1. Lecturers in Public Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria are eligible
2. Multidisciplinary and Interdisciplinary researches, comprising researchers from various disciplines, are encouraged
3. The Principal Investigator (PI), who must not be below the rank of a Senior Lecturer in a University or Principal Lecturer in a Polytechnic or College of Education, will lead the Research Team and be personally responsible and held accountable for the conduct of the research
4. An added requirement is that the PI must be institution-based, with the PI’s institution regarded as the Coordinating Institution and guarantor of proper application of the funds for the project

The submission portal will open on 1st August 2025. Researchers have until 28th August 2025 to submit their Concept Notes.

How to apply:

The application process is fully digital. PIs are expected to use the platform at nrf.tetfund.gov.ng to prepare and submit their Concept Notes and, if invited, their full proposals.

“All the submitted Concept Notes will be evaluated by the National Research Fund Screening and Monitoring Committee (NRFSMC),” the TETFund statement reads. It added that successful applicants would be contacted to proceed to the proposal stage.

PIs whose projects are found fundable will be invited, along with at least one team member, to present their proposal before the NRFS&MC. If approved, such projects will be recommended to the Board of Trustees for final funding approval and disbursement.

NDE Katsina to Train and Empower Youths for Job Opportunities in Belarus

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NDE Katsina to Train and Empower Youths for Job Opportunities in Belarus

The National Directorate of Employment (NDE) Katsina State Office, on Tuesday, received a delegation from the Katsina State Department of Employment Promotion. The visit, led by the Special Adviser to the Governor, Hon. Malam Yau Ahmad Nowa Dandume, was focused on building stronger collaboration between both agencies to tackle unemployment and promote job creation across the state.

Hon. Dandume was accompanied by key government officials including the Director of Employment, Alhaji Aliyu Aminu Hakori; Director of Administration and Supply, Alhaji Ibrahim Bature Safana; and Staff Officer, Malam Armaya’u Katsina, along with their support team.

During the meeting, the Special Adviser explained the purpose of the visit, which was to “strengthen partnership with the NDE through skill acquisition and empowerment programmes that can directly reduce unemployment in Katsina State.”

He also highlighted the ongoing employment initiative in Belarus and noted that there was increasing demand for skilled Nigerian artisans abroad. “We are ready to work closely with the NDE to ensure our youths benefit from these global job opportunities,” he stated.

The State Coordinator of NDE, Hajiya Halima Isa Ingawa Gimbiyar Yandoma, welcomed the visitors and commended the effort towards collaboration. She said the NDE is already implementing several intervention programmes that focus on skill development, entrepreneurship training, and small-scale business support. Hajiya Halima noted, “This partnership can drive real change if both agencies commit to sharing resources and information.”

Heads of departments within NDE, including Ibrahim Bara’u (Small Scale Enterprises) and Muhammad Sanda (Special Public Works), also presented updates on their departmental efforts to support youth employment. They emphasized the importance of small businesses and public works schemes in reducing poverty and empowering young people.

Hajiya Halima also revealed that “the Director General of NDE, His Excellency Silas Ali Agra, is in direct talks with the Nigerian Ambassador to Belarus to fast-track employment for Nigerian artisans abroad.” She noted the discussions are progressing positively.

She concluded by assuring the delegation that the NDE remains committed to supporting government efforts to curb unemployment in Katsina State.

Nigeria Unveils 10-Year Plan to Transform Agriculture with Youth at Centre

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Nigeria Unveils 10-Year Plan to Transform Agriculture with Youth at Centre

The Nigerian government has unveiled a 10-year Strategic Action Plan (2026–2035) aimed at transforming the agricultural sector through youth-led innovation.

The announcement came as part of Nigeria’s efforts to implement the Comprehensive Africa Agricultural Development Programme (CAADP) Kampala Declaration (2026–2036), which focuses on improving food and nutrition security across Africa.

Vice President Kashim Shettima shared the details on Tuesday during the United Nations Food Systems Summit Stocktake (UNFSS+4) held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Speaking at a high-level dialogue involving African leaders and youth agri-food entrepreneurs, the Vice President emphasized the role of young Nigerians in reshaping food systems.

“A nation that is prepared for the future is not known by the promises it makes, but by the place it gives to its youth in shaping those promises. To see African youths leading the charge in this essential sector speaks more eloquently than any speech,” Shettima said.

The action plan will prioritize agricultural innovation, food sustainability, and economic diversification.

Government officials also stressed the need to attract investment in agritech, rural farming, and modern agricultural practices, aligning the plan with national economic growth and food security goals.

Meanwhile, Vice President Kashim Shettima also addressed the Plenary Session on Transforming Food Systems in Complex Settings, where he announced that Nigeria has already committed $538.05 million to the first phase of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) programme.

The initiative is designed to increase agricultural productivity, enhance rural livelihoods, and drive agro-industrialisation across key regions.

“The SAPZ programme in Nigeria is being implemented in partnership with the African Development Bank, the International Fund for Agricultural Development, the Islamic Development Bank, and other key development partners. The initiative is projected to attract $1 billion in total investments by 2027, reduce post-harvest losses by 80%, and has already generated over 785,000 jobs across targeted regions,” Shettima stated.

He stressed that African youths remain central to shaping the future of the agri-food sector, describing them as the continent’s most valuable asset. He urged both public and private stakeholders to mobilise support for youth participation in agricultural transformation.

Reaffirming the Federal Government’s focus on food security, the Vice President said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has declared a State of Emergency on Food Security, reactivated more than 500,000 hectares of arable land, expanded access to seeds and extension services, and deployed strategic food reserves.

Apply: Enugu State Polytechnic Scholarship 2025/26 (Fully Funded)

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Apply: Enugu State Polytechnic Scholarship 2025/26 (Fully Funded)

The Enugu State Polytechnic, Iwollo (ESPoly), has announced a full scholarship opportunity for all fresh students admitted into its regular and part-time programs. According to the school, the scholarship covers tuition for the 2025/2026 academic session.

“All newly admitted students are eligible for a full scholarship once they register into any of the listed programs,” a school official stated.

The available programs for the scholarship are:

a. Accountancy
b. Banking and Finance
c. Statistics
d. Computer Science
e. Computer Engineering
f. Agricultural Extension and Management
g. Horticultural Technology
h. Agricultural Technology
i. Animal Health and Production Technology

Applicants who scored 120 and above in the UTME and have a good O’ level result are eligible to apply. It was further explained that Agricultural Extension and Management is strictly an HND program meant for those with an ND in related fields.

Take note that ESPoly appears in the JAMB brochure as ENU-POLY.

“We urge interested candidates to quickly do their change of institution to ESPOLY and enjoy full scholarship,” the management said.

How to apply:

To apply, visit the Polytechnic with a printed copy of this advert and register immediately. For help, contact 08033165710, 07038708501, or visit www.espoly.edu.ng.

Vote: Reps to National Council For Digital Innovation and Enterpreneurship

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Vote: Reps to National Council For Digital Innovation and Enterpreneurship

The Federal Government, through NITDA (National Information Technology Developervert Agency) has officially opened voting for four representatives to join the National Council for Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship (NCDIE). This marks a major step in strengthening Nigeria’s startup and digital economy.

According to NITDA, “The journey to shape Nigeria’s digital and innovation ecosystem is here. Be part of this landmark process by joining the Nigeria Startup Consultative Forum.”

Eligible participants include all Labelled Startups, Verified Ecosystem Support Organisations (ESOs), Angel Investors, and Venture Capitalists. Voting is now live on the Nigeria Startup Portal and will run from Wednesday, 30th July 2025 to Friday, August 1st, 2025.

“All registered members on the portal can vote,” the notice stated. Interested participants should register and cast their vote now via startup.gov.ng.

27 States, FCT Access N78.6 Billion UBE Funds After FG Reforms

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27 States, FCT Access N78.6 Billion UBE Funds After FG Reforms

The Federal Government has recorded a significant improvement in the utilization of Universal Basic Education (UBE) Matching Grants, with 27 states and the Federal Capital Territory accessing ₦78.6 billion out of ₦121 billion previously unutilized as of January 2025.

This represents a 65 percent increase and is credited to reforms introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to the Federal Ministry of Education, this development follows the implementation of a revised Matching Grant formula, part of the UBEC 2025–2030 Strategic Blueprint.

This blueprint was developed in collaboration with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs), and the Ministry itself. The new approach focuses on equity, accountability, and improving service delivery by aligning education funding with national priorities and local needs.

To ensure faster access to funds, the Ministry and UBEC began a strategic advocacy drive, engaging directly with state governors. These sessions included performance feedback and reform data, helping to renew states’ commitment to counterpart funding responsibilities and encourage quick drawdowns of funds for vital education projects.

Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, said, “This progress is a result of deliberate reforms and stronger federal-state collaboration. We commend proactive states and urge others to act.”

He also confirmed the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that UBE funds are properly used to improve infrastructure, teacher training, and learning outcomes nationwide.

This achievement highlights the Renewed Hope Agenda’s focus on transparent and effective governance in the education sector, supporting long-term national development through quality education investment.

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