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How To Apply For SMEDAN N5B Student Entrepreneurship Grant

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The SMEDAN N5B Student Entrepreneurship Grant is a big opportunity for young Nigerians who want to start or grow their own businesses. The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has launched a N5 billion grant program for student entrepreneurs. This is part of the government’s plan to support youth entrepreneurship and reduce unemployment in Nigeria. The grant is starting with the North-West region to support balanced economic growth across the country.

SMEDAN N5B Student Entrepreneurship Grant Benefit

This student business grant offers many benefits, like financial support for business ideas, skills training, and chances to boost local economies. It’s perfect for students who have great business ideas but lack the funds to make them real. It also helps develop innovation and leadership among Nigerian youths. Successful applicants will receive grants to support their business activities.

How to Apply

To apply for the SMEDAN N5 billion student grant, go to the official SMEDAN website at https://smedan.gov.ng. Applicants must submit a clear business plan and show how their idea will make a difference. The best ideas will receive funding to support their business goals.

This grant is ideal for students looking for funding opportunities in Nigeria and is one of the top ways to access government business support. Always check for updates and prepare your documents early before applying.

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NYSC: 2025 Batch A Stream 1 Deployment Released

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The National Youth Service Corps has officially released the NYSC Batch A Stream I Postings for 2025. This update is important for prospective corps members who completed their NYSC online registration. The NYSC advised all prospective corps members (PCMs) to check their dashboard to see their deployment and download the necessary documents.

One important document is the addendum. It can be found on the NYSC portal after successful registration. The NYSC stressed that this addendum must be signed and printed. Without it, entry into the NYSC orientation camp may be delayed or denied. The document is essential for smooth registration at the camp and to prevent service disruption.

According to NYSC’s official X handle, some PCMs posted to Lagos will attend orientation in Osun, Ondo, or Ogun camps. Also, those deployed to Abuja may have their camp experience in Kaduna or Nasarawa. These changes aim to ease overcrowding and improve camp experiences.

NYSC also warned PCMs not to travel at night. Safety is a top priority, and night travel can be risky.

Lagos State Local Government Service Commission Recruitment Now Ongoing

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The Lagos State Local Government Service Commission (LGSC) has officially announced the 2025 Recruitment Exercise. This is a great opportunity for young professionals and graduates looking for stable government jobs in Nigeria. The recruitment process is completely free. Applicants are strongly advised not to pay anyone any money. Be careful and avoid scammers pretending to represent the Commission.

There are many vacancies available. Positions include Administrative and Human Resource Officers, Executive Officers (General Duties), Finance and Account Officers, Engineers (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical), Technical Officers, Building Officers, Architects, Quantity Surveyors, Community Development Officers, Program Analysts, Data Processing Officers, Education Officers, Agricultural Officers, Library Officers, Legal Officers, Public Relations Officers, Planning Officers, Statisticians, Procurement Officers, and Tourism Officers.

To apply, you must complete your application online. The portal will be open from Tuesday, April 22nd to Friday, May 9th, 2025. The Commission will not accept any physical submission. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered.

Follow these steps to apply:

  1. Visit the official LGSC website at www.lslgsc.com.ng
  2. Click on the “more” button, then choose “services”
  3. Read the requirements for each job carefully before clicking on the “apply” button
  4. Fill the form with accurate information
  5. After submitting, print the acknowledgement slip sent to you

Only shortlisted applicants will be invited for a Computer Based Test and interview. If you are looking for government jobs in Lagos, this is your chance to apply for a high paying public sector job. Make sure all your details are correct and your documents are ready before applying.

SMEDAN Disbursement: North West Students Get N5 Billion Grant

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The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) has taken a significant step towards boosting youth entrepreneurship and enterprise development by disbursing ₦5 billion in grants. This funding is targeted at over 30,000 students in tertiary institutions within the North West zone of Nigeria. The initiative, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and supported by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, aims to reshape how students approach their academic and business futures.

SMEDAN’s goal is to shift students’ perspectives, urging them to see their academic journey not just as a path to knowledge, but as an opportunity to launch businesses and foster innovation. The grant program provides financial backing alongside real-world experience, helping students bridge the gap between classroom learning and the skills needed to thrive in the business world.

Dr. Charles Odili, the Director General of SMEDAN, emphasized that the agency’s work goes beyond simple grant distribution. It is about creating a solid foundation for long-term economic empowerment. “We are not just handing out grants; we are building the foundation for sustainable economic empowerment,” said Dr. Odili.

This initiative also aligns with the Workforce Support pillar of the GROW Nigerian strategy, a national initiative designed to scale up local enterprises, empower young Nigerians, and foster long-term economic growth. By expanding this grant initiative, SMEDAN is creating opportunities for youth-led innovation and small business growth across Nigeria.

The disbursement of grants will continue to other regions, ensuring that more young Nigerians have access to the resources needed to start businesses and contribute to the country’s economic development. This program represents a key step in growing Nigerian businesses from the ground up.

How Smallholder Farmers can Benefit from Oyo State Land Tractorisation Subsidy

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How Smallholder Farmers can Benefit from Oyo State Land Tractorisation Subsidy

The Oyo State Land Tractorisation Subsidy is a government-supported agricultural subsidy that helps smallholder farmers in Oyo State access tractors for land preparation at a reduced cost. This support is aimed at increasing food production, improving yields, and reducing the stress of manual farming. If you are a smallholder farmer in Oyo State, this step-by-step guide will show you how to take advantage of this opportunity.

1. Contact the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

The first step is to reach out to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. Every Local Government Area (LGA) in Oyo State has dedicated extension officers. You can get in touch with the extension officer attached to your LGA by phone. These officers are trained to help farmers understand and benefit from government farming programs like this one.

2. Farm Visit by Extension Officer

After making contact, the extension officer will schedule a visit to your farm. During this visit, the officer will take details about your farm, including the size of the land and the type of crop you plan to grow. This step helps the government determine how much tractor service you need. Accurate farm data ensures you get the right support.

3. Book the Tractor through the Hello Tractor App

Next, the extension officer helps you book the tractorisation service using the Hello Tractor App. This mobile app connects farmers with tractor owners. It makes the booking process easy and helps the government monitor how tractors are used. With the app, farmers don’t have to wait long or go through a stressful process to get tractor services.

4. Ministry Confirms Booking and Farmer Information

Once the booking is made, backend officers at the Ministry of Agriculture will review your application. They will check the information submitted and confirm that you are eligible. If everything is in order, you will get the green light to make the required counterpart payment. This small payment is what you contribute while the government covers the rest.

5. Make Payment and Get Tractor Service

After receiving confirmation, you will pay your part of the cost into the ACCOS account. ACCOS stands for the Agricultural Cooperative and Commercial Services. Once your payment is confirmed, the Ministry will send a tractor to your farm to begin land preparation. This service makes it easier and faster to get your land ready for planting.

This subsidy is a great way to reduce the cost of farming and improve your harvest. It saves time, reduces labor, and helps smallholder farmers become more productive. If you follow these steps, you can enjoy the benefits of modern farming tools without spending too much.

CBEX Scam: House of Reps Calls for Urgent Crackdown on Perpetrators

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CBEX Scam: House of Reps Calls for Urgent Crackdown on Perpetrators

Just in: The Nigerian House of Representatives is raising serious alarms over a massive crypto scam called “CBEX” that has reportedly duped thousands of Nigerians. According to early estimates, the fraud has swallowed over ₦1.3 trillion, leaving many investors in deep financial trouble.

This fake investment platform used the name “CBEX” to mislead people into thinking it was linked to a trusted Chinese company, the China Beijing Equity Exchange. But this legit organization has denied any involvement with crypto or digital asset trading in Nigeria. The scammers took advantage of the name and made bold claims, offering huge returns with almost no risk – a major red flag in any investment.

This situation highlights the real dangers of unregulated cryptocurrency platforms and fake online investment schemes. As crypto and digital finance keep growing in popularity, so do the risks tied to them. That’s why the House is urging top agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Police Force, and even Interpol to speed up their investigations. Their goal is to find the scammers, recover stolen funds, and bring those responsible to justice.

In response to rising crypto scams and financial fraud, Nigeria recently passed a stronger law called the Investment and Securities Act (ISA) of 2025. Signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this law gives more power to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to act against Ponzi schemes and unregistered financial operations. It even allows for prison terms of up to 10 years for anyone caught running or promoting such frauds.

This act is part of a larger push by the government to protect investors and promote safer investment environments. Rep. Solomon T. Bob, who chairs the House Committee on Capital Market and Institutions, stressed that battling fraud is not just about law enforcement — it’s also about public education. He pointed out that scammers usually target people who don’t fully understand how investments work. That’s why financial literacy is so important.

To avoid falling victim to future scams, the House is urging Nigerians to double-check any investment opportunity with the SEC before putting in their money. If a platform promises unrealistic profits with no risk, that’s usually a sign that it’s a scam.

Social media influencers, celebrities, and other public figures are also being warned. Promoting these fake platforms could now make them legally responsible for misleading the public. The new ISA makes it clear that anyone who helps promote an unlicensed investment scheme could face legal consequences.

The House is also calling on schools, churches, mosques, and media outlets to step up and help spread awareness. Building a nation that understands how to manage money and avoid scams is key to economic growth.

This focus aligns with the 10th Assembly’s goals for 2023 to 2027, especially Agenda 4, which is centered on economic development. By pushing for safer, more transparent capital markets, the House says it remains committed to protecting the financial well-being of everyday Nigerians.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery Reduces Petrol Price from N865 to N835

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Dangote Petroleum Refinery Reduces Petrol Price from N865 to N835

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has reduced the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly called petrol, from N865 to N835 per litre. This new price took effect on Wednesday, 16th April 2025. It’s the second petrol price drop in just one week, showing the company’s effort to make fuel more affordable for Nigerians.

With this new price, major fuel stations such as MRS, Ardova (AP), Heyden, Optima Energy, Hyde, and Tecno Oil are adjusting their pump prices. Here’s how prices have changed across the country:

  • In Lagos, petrol now sells for N890 per litre, down from N920.
  • In the South-West, the new price is N900 per litre, reduced from N930.
  • In the North-West and North-Central, fuel is now N910 per litre, previously N940.
  • In the South-East, South-South, and North-East, it is now N920, reduced from N950.

These changes are part of a broader plan to make fuel prices more stable and support Nigeria’s energy economy. By lowering petrol prices, the Dangote Refinery aims to ease the burden on consumers, especially during key economic periods like the Easter season.

The Dangote Refinery has also been actively working on lowering the cost of other fuels. Earlier this year in February, it reduced prices by as much as N125 per litre. Additionally, the refinery has cut prices for products like diesel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), which are important for both homes and businesses.

This drop in petrol price is expected to have a positive effect across various industries, reducing transportation and production costs. It could also support a decrease in the cost of goods and services in the country.

The refinery assures Nigerians of a stable and sufficient fuel supply, with enough reserves to meet domestic demand and even export to other markets. This will help maintain steady prices and strengthen Nigeria’s foreign exchange reserves.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery also encourages fuel marketers and distributors to source their petrol from the refinery. This will ensure Nigerians across the country benefit from these lower fuel prices and enjoy reliable access to high-quality petrol.

FG Leep Program Portal Registration Open

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The FG LEEP Program, which stands for Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme, is a government-backed initiative launched by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment in Nigeria. It is part of the Renewed Hope Initiative aimed at reducing unemployment by supporting job creation, skill development, and entrepreneurship. The LEEP Program is designed to help Nigerians gain relevant skills, find sustainable jobs, and build businesses that can compete locally and globally.

Leep Eligibility

LEEP is available to Nigerians from all backgrounds. This includes young people, women, and those from underserved communities who want to learn a trade, gain work experience, or start a business. LEEP is offering access to digital skills and vocational training to help create economic opportunities in Nigeria.

How to Apply for LEEP Program

One of the core features of LEEP is that it is easy to access. Nigerians can register online by visiting the official website. Click this Link to apply. The platform allows users to create an account, explore different programs, and apply for opportunities.

Most LEEP programs and resources are free, but some specialized training or certifications might come with small fees.

The LEEP Program operates through five main areas of focus. These include a Job Portal where employers and job seekers can connect directly. This portal helps people find work across various industries and also supports employers in finding skilled talent. The LEEP Digital Academy is another part of the program. It provides free training in digital skills such as web development, data analysis, and digital marketing—skills that are in high demand both locally and internationally.

The Center for Learning Spaces is another key project under LEEP. It upgrades old training centers into modern learning hubs where people can learn hands-on skills. This supports long-term employment by giving people practical experience.

LEEP also runs a Digital Nomads program, which prepares Nigerian youth for remote work and freelancing in the global marketplace. It teaches in-demand tech skills and connects learners to global platforms where they can earn income online. The Vocational and Entrepreneurship Program (VEP) helps individuals gain skills to become self-employed or run small businesses.

Job Fairs are also organized by LEEP to connect job seekers directly with employers from both the public and private sectors. This makes it easier for job seekers to find real opportunities without the usual barriers.

LEEP will ensure that women, youth, and people from all regions have access to training and employment support. Mentorship, online access, and certification are key parts of the program, which is expected to help Nigerians build a strong foundation for the future.

NNPC/SEPLAT JV National Undergraduate Scholarship 2025

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The SEPLAT/NNPC Joint Venture has announced the start of its 2025 National Undergraduate Scholarship Programme for Nigerian students. The scholarship is aimed at supporting outstanding students in Federal and State universities across the country.

To be eligible, students must be in their second year or above and studying specific courses like Engineering, Medicine, Law, Economics, Computer Science, and several others. Applicants also need a CGPA of 3.5 or higher and must have five credit passes in one sitting, including English and Mathematics.

The list of accepted courses includes:

  • Accountancy
  • Agriculture
  • Architecture
  • Business Administration
  • Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical/Electronic, Mechanical, Metallurgical, and Petroleum Engineering
  • Economics
  • Environmental Studies
  • Geology
  • Geophysics
  • Law
  • Mass Communication
  • Medicine
  • Ophthalmology/Optometry

How to Apply

Students who meet the criteria can apply online through register.seplatscholarship.com. A valid personal email address is required for communication. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

The application window is open from April 7 to April 21, 2025. There is no fee to apply, and students are advised not to make any payments at any point during the application process.

This scholarship is a good chance for students to get financial support while focusing on their education. It also reflects SEPLAT and NNPC’s ongoing investment in education and youth development in Nigeria.

Link to Apply

Akwa Ibom State Pensions Verification Exercise Portal

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This is a public notification to all pensioners in Akwa Ibom State that Pension Verification is starting on Friday, April 4th, 2025 – Friday, and ends on April 15th, 2025.

Who can verify?

  • Mainstream Pensioners
  • AKSUBEB Pensioners
  • Local Government Pensioners

Verification Methods:

  • Walk-in Verification Centres (according to the schedule)
  • Self-Verification Online
  • Visit: pensioners.akwaibomstate.gov.ng

What You’ll Need:

  • Pensioner ID Card
  • Valid BVN (Bank Verification Number)

Why is the pension verification happening?

The main goal of this verification exercise is to ensure that pension payments are being made to the right people. It helps confirm identities, update records, and clear up any discrepancies to make the pension system run smoothly.

When does the verification take place?

The pension verification process will run for 30 days, with the actual verification scheduled from Friday, April 4th, to Friday, April 15th, 2025.

Who is eligible to participate in the verification?

Pensioners from three groups are eligible:

  1. Mainstream Pensioners (Retirees from the state government)
  2. AKSUBEB Pensioners (Retirees from the Akwa Ibom State Universal Basic Education Board)
  3. Local Government Pensioners (Retirees from local governments)

How many pensioners are expected to be verified?

A total of 28,898 pensioners will undergo verification, broken down as:

  • 16,477 Mainstream Pensioners
  • 7,880 AKSUBEB Pensioners
  • 4,541 Local Government Pensioners

What verification options are available?

Pensioners can choose between two options for the verification process:

  1. Walk-in Verification Centres (visit a designated centre according to the provided schedule)
  2. Self-Verification Online

What do I need for verification?

To complete the verification, pensioners will need:

  • A Pensioner ID Card
  • A Valid BVN (Bank Verification Number)
  • Your physical presence if you are doing the walk-in verification

How does the walk-in verification work?

If you choose to verify in person, here’s what you can expect:

  1. Go to the designated verification centre.
  2. Provide your pensioner details.
  3. Verify your identity digitally.
  4. Your pensioner ID card will be scanned.
  5. After successful verification, you’ll receive a verification slip.

How can I complete the self-verification online?

For pensioners with registered phone numbers, the self-verification process can be done online by following these steps:

  1. Visit pensioners.akwaibomstate.gov.ng.
  2. Click on the “Verify” button.
  3. Enter your Pension Number and Phone Number.
  4. You’ll get an OTP (One-Time Password) via SMS. Enter it on the portal.
  5. Complete the digital identity check.
  6. Upload a picture of your Pensioner ID Card.
  7. After verification, you can view and print your Verification Slip.

What details are being verified?

The process will check the following:

  • Personal Identification Details
  • Bank Verification Number (BVN): This must match the pensioner’s name exactly, though minor variations (such as surname and first name swapping) are allowed.
  • Name Accuracy: Ensure your name is accurate and matches the records.

Where and when will the walk-in verification take place?

Walk-in verification will be available at the Sub-Treasury and Bank. The schedule and locations will be provided to all pensioners.

Will support be available at the verification centres?

Yes, the verification centres will provide:

  • Verification Agents to guide pensioners through the process
  • Committee Members for oversight and feedback
  • Medical Support: An ambulance and nurse will be on standby, courtesy of the Ministry of Health

What should I do if I face any issues during verification?

If you experience problems during the verification process, assistance is available:

  • Email: support@pensioners.akwaibomstate.gov.ng
  • Phone: Call 0201-2291-111 and choose option 5 for help

What happens after I’m successfully verified?

Once you’ve completed the verification, you’ll receive a Verification Slip. This slip serves as proof that your records have been updated in the pension management system.

What if my phone number is not registered on the portal?

If your phone number is not registered, you will need to visit a Walk-in Verification Centre to complete the verification in person.

Can someone else verify on my behalf?

No, pensioners must verify themselves either in person or through the online portal. Others cannot complete the process for you.

Where can I find more details?

For additional information and updates, visit the official website: pensioners.akwaibomstate.gov.ng.

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