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Senator Natasha distributes electric vehicles to trained beneficiaries in Kogi

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Senator Natasha distributes electric vehicles to trained beneficiaries in Kogi

The Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, on Friday officially handed over electric vehicles to professionally trained beneficiaries drawn from across the district.

The beneficiaries were selected from the five local government areas of Kogi Central and underwent intensive technical and operational training facilitated by professional engineers from the Electric Motor Vehicle Company (EMVC). The training, fully sponsored by the senator, was designed to equip participants with the requisite skills to operate and maintain electric vehicles effectively and safely.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan underscored the global shift toward clean energy and sustainable transportation, noting that electric vehicles represent the future of mobility.

“The world is moving toward cleaner and more sustainable energy solutions. Electric vehicles are not just cars; they are part of a broader vision to protect our environment, reduce fuel dependency, and create new economic opportunities for our people,” she said.

She explained that the initiative forms part of her broader commitment to empowerment, innovation, and economic advancement in Kogi Central.

“This programme is not merely about handing over vehicles. It is about creating sustainable livelihoods, building local capacity, and positioning our youths and entrepreneurs to participate in the evolving technological revolution. I am particularly proud that the beneficiaries were not only selected but comprehensively trained by professionals to ensure competence and safety,” she added.

The senator urged the beneficiaries to prioritise safety and responsibility on the roads.

“I urge you to drive carefully and responsibly. Your lives are precious, as are the lives of other road users. Avoid speeding, obey traffic regulations, and ensure regular maintenance of these vehicles. Empowerment must go hand in hand with discipline,” she advised.

She further encouraged the beneficiaries to see the opportunity as a platform for growth and community impact.

“Let this initiative not be seen solely as a personal benefit. Use these vehicles to support your families, serve your communities, and inspire others. May your success stories resonate across the five local government areas,” she said.

In an emotional moment during the ceremony, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan offered prayers for the beneficiaries and the people of Kogi Central.

“I pray that God will protect you on every journey you undertake. May these vehicles bring prosperity to your homes. May there be no accidents, no losses, and no setbacks. May Kogi Central continue to witness progress and innovation,” she prayed.

The initiative was described as a forward-thinking intervention that blends environmental sustainability with economic empowerment, marking another milestone in the senator’s constituency development agenda.

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Apply: RH-WAVE 774 N1m Agro Program for 10 Million Women

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Apply: RH-WAVE 774 N1m Agro Program for 10 Million Women

The Federal Government has officially opened applications for the RH-WAVE 774 Women Agro-Value Expansion (WAVE) Programme, a nationwide initiative designed to support 10 million Nigerian women in agriculture and agribusiness with up to N1 million each across the 774 local government areas of Nigeria.

RH-WAVE 774 is a response to economic exclusion, food insecurity, and structural inequality. Launched in June 2025 under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the programme focuses on moving women from subsistence farming into structured value-chain participation as entrepreneurs, market leaders, and exporters.

The Women Agro-Value Expansion Programme seeks to build a Nigeria where women are wealth creators, job generators, and active contributors to national export growth and food system resilience. It is designed to strengthen women’s participation in agribusiness through practical support and structured opportunities.

Participants will gain access to finance and modern agricultural technology. The programme also offers training in greenhouse farming, post-harvest storage, value addition, and financial literacy. Beneficiaries will receive direct market connections both locally and internationally, cooperative membership for collective strength, export readiness support, and ongoing enterprise coaching. The initiative also includes partnerships with international organisations such as the OIC.

Eligibility is open to a wide range of women, including farmers, traders, processors, graduates, single mothers, rural entrepreneurs, and market women. Women with viable business interests or aspirations in agriculture and related value chains are encouraged to apply.

Interested applicants can apply for RH-WAVE 774 online at https://waveprogramme.com/wave/application.

NJFP 2.0 Begins Host Organization Approval

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NJFP 2.0 Begins Host Organization Approval

Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP) 2.0 has commenced the approval of host organizations through its dashboard. Approved organizations are required to wait for final admin verification before gaining full access to all features.

TMC approval is currently ongoing for eligible hosts. If your organization has been approved by TMC, you will now await final admin verification to gain complete access. Approved hosts will receive an email notification once the admin verification process is completed.

Only organizations with complete information, a verified CAC number, and a verified Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC) number (optional) are eligible for TMC approval.

Admin verification must be completed before an organization is fully verified and activated on the platform.

Organizations whose verification has been rejected can review the feedback provided on their dashboard, make the necessary corrections, and resubmit their application.

Common reasons for rejection on NJFP 2.0 include incomplete or missing CAC certificates, invalid or expired business registration documents, inconsistent information between submitted documents and profile details, missing required contact information, insufficient business capacity or scope, and non-compliance with programme requirements.

Congratulations to all successful host organizations.

Sokoto Govt to Launch New Women Empowerment Programmes

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Sokoto Govt to Launch New Women Empowerment Programmes

The Sokoto State Government has announced plans to launch additional empowerment programmes aimed at improving the socio-economic wellbeing of women across the state.

The Wife of the Governor, Hajiya Fatima Ahmad Aliyu, made this known during a special Iftar session with women commissioners, special advisers, senior government officials, and women leaders from the 23 local government areas of the state.

The event, held at the Presidential Lodge in Sokoto, was organised to mark the holy month of Ramadan, foster unity among women leaders, and offer prayers for the success of the administration, as well as for peace and stability in the state and the country.

Hajiya Fatima expressed appreciation on behalf of Governor Ahmed Aliyu for the unwavering support women have continued to show the present administration.

She noted that the forthcoming empowerment initiatives are designed to make women more productive and better positioned to support their families and contribute meaningfully to society.

She highlighted ongoing skills acquisition programmes being implemented through the Ministry of Women Affairs, the Sokoto State Poverty Reduction Agency, the Sokoto State Microfinance Development Agency (SOSMEDA), and the Renewed Hope Initiative.

According to her, “these programmes are equipping women with vocational skills across various trades to promote self-reliance and financial independence.”

In her remarks, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Hajiya Hadiza Ahmad Shagari, commended the Governor’s wife for organising the Iftar and lauded the state government’s sustained commitment to advancing the welfare and development of women in Sokoto State.

The event featured the breaking of fast and a dinner, and was attended by prominent women, including the wife of the State Deputy Governor, Hajiya Aisha Idris Gobir, and the wife of the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hajiya Farida.

FG to Commercialize Innovations from Enugu Tech Festival 2026

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FG to Commercialize Innovations from Enugu Tech Festival 2026

The Federal Government has assured that promising innovations showcased at the 2026 Enugu Tech Festival (ETF) will not end as ideas on display but will receive structured institutional support to become commercially viable products and enterprises.

This commitment was made by the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology (FMIST) during the four-day Enugu Tech Festival held from 24–27 February 2026 at the International Conference Centre, Enugu. Representing the Ministry, the Honourable Minister, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, stated that ETF 2026 marks a deliberate shift from celebrating ideas to building businesses that generate measurable economic value.

According to him, the Federal Government is prioritising the commercialisation of research and innovation outcomes to ensure that creative solutions move beyond laboratories and exhibitions into the marketplace. He explained that the goal is to connect researchers, start-ups, investors and industry players within a coordinated ecosystem that supports scaling and sustainability.

Dr. Udeh emphasised that participants with viable and market-ready innovations emerging from ETF 2026 will receive the necessary institutional backing to transition from concept stage to commercial application. This includes structured guidance, policy alignment, and collaboration channels designed to help innovators refine prototypes, attract funding, and enter competitive markets.

He noted that this approach aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda, which positions science, technology and innovation as key drivers of industrial growth, job creation and national competitiveness. By strengthening linkages between research institutions and industry, FMIST aims to ensure that local talent and indigenous solutions power Nigeria’s economic transformation.

The Minister also commended Enugu State’s leadership in embedding technology into governance, security, education and public service delivery, describing it as a model of subnational innovation excellence. He said initiatives such as digital governance reforms and smart infrastructure projects demonstrate how technology can be intentionally deployed for inclusive development.

With ETF 2026, the Federal Government reinforces its mandate to energise, industrialise and commercialise Nigeria’s innovation potential, ensuring that breakthrough ideas evolve into enterprises that create jobs, generate income and solve real challenges across the country.

Kebbi to Distribute Free Grains, Farm Inputs to Over 1 Million Residents

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Kebbi to Distribute Free Grains, Farm Inputs to Over 1 Million Residents

Over one million people across Kebbi State are set to benefit from the free distribution of assorted grains and agricultural inputs as part of continued efforts to support citizens during the holy month of Ramadan and boost food production.

Governor Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris disclosed this on Friday while hosting Special Advisers and Chairmen of Boards and Parastatals at a Ramadan Iftar held at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi.

He revealed that the distribution exercise would commence immediately, with a wide range of essential food items and agricultural inputs to be provided free of charge to beneficiaries across the state.

According to the Governor, the items earmarked for distribution include rice, maize, millet, fertilizers, herbicides, power tillers, solar pumps, CNG water pumps and other critical farm inputs aimed at strengthening both dry and wet season farming.

Governor Idris explained that the gesture underscores his administration’s people-centered approach to governance. He emphasized that leadership must directly impact the lives of ordinary citizens, particularly during periods of economic challenges.

He noted that each beneficiary would receive at least one item, stressing that the programme is designed not only to cushion the effects of hardship during Ramadan but also to accelerate agricultural productivity and strengthen food security across Kebbi State.

The Governor reiterated that his administration remains committed to fulfilling its promises by implementing policies and programmes that positively affect the majority of the population.

While appreciating the support and cooperation of political appointees and other stakeholders, he commended them for their loyalty and contributions to the smooth running of government.

Governor Idris also addressed welfare concerns raised by the Chairman of the Advisers’ Forum, particularly regarding outstanding furniture allowances for some advisers. He directed the Secretary to the State Government to ensure that all affected Advisers and Chairmen of Boards and Parastatals who are yet to receive their furniture allowances are paid promptly and in accordance with government approval.

He further assured that his administration would continue broad consultations and consolidation efforts to ensure inclusive development, leaving no community behind in the ongoing developmental drive across the state.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Kebbi State Advisers’ Forum, Alhaji Zayyanu Shehu Sanka, expressed gratitude to the Governor for what he described as his generosity and inclusive leadership style. He noted that the appointment of a large number of advisers demonstrates the Governor’s confidence in their capacity to serve.

He also acknowledged the Governor’s support to ill and ailing members and prayed for their speedy recovery. He appealed for the payment of outstanding furniture allowances for about 30 advisers.

In his remarks, Prof. Suleiman Khalid Jega, Chairman of the Forum of Heads of Boards and Parastatals, commended the Governor for what he described as remarkable achievements recorded within a short period in office, particularly in infrastructure, agriculture and social interventions.

He observed that the administration has not only fulfilled campaign promises but exceeded expectations. According to him, future political campaigns would focus more on tangible achievements already delivered to the people.

The Professor further stated that political appointees would compile and document the numerous projects executed under the present administration for public presentation.

He assured the Governor of their unwavering support and commitment to consolidating on the gains recorded for the continued progress and development of Kebbi State.

FG to Empower 10,000 Women with Electric Tricycles Under GEE774

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FG to Empower 10,000 Women with Electric Tricycles Under GEE774

The Federal Government has announced a major initiative to empower 10,000 Nigerian women with electric tricycles (ET) for commercial use across the country. The programme, known as the Minister’s Green Economy Empowerment 774 (GEE774), will cover all 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Nigeria and is being implemented under the leadership of the Honourable Minister, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, fsi.

As part of the rollout, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of the Ministry with Sparrow Mobility Limited, represented by Mr. Adeniyi Ologunleko. The partnership will provide women with 3-wheeler (8 seater) electric tricycles and 3-wheeler tricycles with carriage for Rice Mill (farm-to-market), marking what officials described as a pivotal step toward gender equality, economic growth and climate action.

The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) commitment under the Paris Agreement and supports the country’s target of achieving NetZero emissions by 2060. By promoting electric mobility, the government aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while encouraging a cleaner and healthier environment.

Speaking on the programme, the Hon. Minister Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim said, “we are not just providing transportation; we are opening doors to economic opportunities. This initiative will create green jobs, foster entrepreneurship, and empower women to fully engage in the economy, leading to greater stability and growth in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s GCFR Renewed Hope Agenda.”

She noted that women play a vital role in communities and that empowering them can drive meaningful development. According to her, equipping women with essential tools such as electric tricycles will enable them to become active agents of transformation within their communities.

The Minister emphasized that the transport sector is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, making the shift to electric mobility necessary. “This project exemplifies the commitment of Mr. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for gender mainstreaming,” she said. “By offering women sustainable transportation options, we are building resilience and empowering them to face climate challenges.”

The government reaffirmed its commitment to creating an inclusive framework that supports women while integrating environmental sustainability into national development strategies under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Oluremi Tinubu announces N50m grant for 1,000 women traders in Warri

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Oluremi Tinubu announces N50m grant for 1,000 women traders in Warri

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has unveiled a N50 million empowerment package for 1,000 women involved in petty trading in Warri, Delta State. The support forms part of her Renewed Hope Initiative, a platform focused on improving the welfare of women and vulnerable groups across the country.

She made the announcement during a grand homecoming reception held at the palace of the Olu of Warri. The event drew political leaders, traditional rulers, and residents who gathered to welcome her warmly. The First Lady also disclosed plans to extend additional support to young men in collaboration with the Delta State Government, broadening the scope of the intervention beyond women traders.

Speaking at the palace, Senator Tinubu described the reception as deeply emotional and meaningful. She said returning to Warri felt like coming home and expressed gratitude for the cultural displays and honour accorded to her. She specifically thanked the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, for the respect shown to her, noting that special considerations were made to accommodate her within the kingdom’s traditional framework.

The First Lady reflected on her Itsekiri heritage, describing it as foundational to her values, discipline, and approach to public service. She also spoke about national unity, pointing to the overlap of the Christian Lenten season and the Muslim fasting period as a symbolic moment for reflection and togetherness. Citing Psalm 133, she encouraged Nigerians to rise above ethnic and religious differences and work toward shared national goals.

In his remarks, Ogiame Atuwatse III described the visit as divinely inspired and symbolic of a new season of unity and healing for the Niger Delta and Nigeria. He commended the First Lady’s humility and consistent support for her husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, assuring her of the kingdom’s prayers and solidarity.

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, praised Senator Tinubu as compassionate and committed to the welfare of ordinary Nigerians. He described her as a proud daughter of the Itsekiri nation with a strong record of service.

Governor Oborevwori recalled her previous engagements in the state, including the August 2024 launch of the Renewed Hope Initiative empowerment programme for the South-South in Asaba and her March 2025 visit to introduce the Free to Shine programme, which distributed 10,000 professional kits to midwives in the region. He also noted her consistent respect for traditional institutions, describing it as a quality that strengthens governance and collaboration.

The governor reaffirmed Delta State’s support for President Tinubu’s reform agenda and outlined ongoing infrastructure projects in Warri, including the completion of the over 20-kilometre Trans-Warri Road with 15 bridges and the Enerhen flyover constructed by Julius Berger. The reception ended with colourful cultural performances, solidarity chants, and a strong show of affection for the First Lady.

FCSC Lacks Funds to Continue CBT for Shortlisted Candidates

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FCSC Lacks Funds to Continue CBT for Shortlisted Candidates

The computer-based test (CBT) stage for shortlisted applicants under the ongoing Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) recruitment exercise is currently facing delays due to insufficient funding, according to details presented during the Commission’s 2026 budget defence.

In a statement on Friday, Prof. Tunji Olaopa, Chairman of the FCSC, told the House of Representatives Committee on Public Service Matters that inadequate budgetary provisions have limited the Commission’s ability to fully execute its constitutional responsibilities. Among the critical areas affected is the conduct of computer-based tests, which form a key stage in the recruitment process.

The 2024 recruitment exercise began in January 2025, and shortlisted candidates were released in July 2025. The next stage of the process was the computer-based test (CBT) for shortlisted applicants. However, based on the Chairman’s presentation, the Commission does not currently have sufficient allocated funds to efficiently and timely conduct the CBT phase.

Prof. Olaopa explained that the absence of dedicated funding has already resulted in unmet expectations regarding the full execution of the 2024 recruitment waiver. He also stressed the need for financial support to digitize recruitment processes and strengthen the Commission’s technological infrastructure. These components are essential for organizing a nationwide online CBT in a transparent and credible manner.

The Committee Chairman, Hon. Sani Umar, acknowledged that the proposed N2.6 billion allocation, including N1.24 billion for personnel costs, is inadequate for the Commission to effectively carry out its core functions, including recruitment activities. Following deliberations, the Committee directed the Budget Office of the Federation to review and adjust the allocation to reflect the Commission’s operational realities.

This funding gap directly impacts the continuation of the CBT stage of the ongoing recruitment. While there is no indication that the process has been cancelled, the implication is clear: there is presently not enough budgetary support to proceed smoothly with the examination phase.

Contrary to widespread speculation, the recruitment process has not been abandoned. Reliable sources within the Commission confirmed that once all necessary preparations are finalized and funding concerns are addressed, qualified applicants will be contacted for the next phase, which is the CBT.

Furthermore, every shortlisted applicant who successfully updated their profile will be eligible to participate in the forthcoming examination. The Commission has expressed confidence that with improved budgetary backing, it will be able to continue the recruitment process and complete the CBT stage in line with its mandate.

GTBank Launches NYSC Advance Loan Up to ₦200,000

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GTBank Launches NYSC Advance Loan Up to ₦200,000

Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) has introduced the NYSC Advance loan to support corps members with quick access to funds during their service year. The facility is designed to help National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members manage personal expenses and urgent needs while serving the country.

The NYSC Advance is a short-term personal loan available to active corps members who receive their monthly allowance, also known as allawee, through GTBank. Eligible applicants can access up to ₦200,000 instantly at an interest rate of 1.75 percent per month. The loan comes with a flexible repayment period of up to nine months, making it easier for corps members to spread repayment over time.

The minimum loan amount available under this scheme is ₦5,000. There are no additional charges attached to the facility, except for a one percent insurance fee. This means beneficiaries can plan their finances without worrying about hidden fees.

To qualify, applicants must be active NYSC members whose allowance is paid through GTBank. Corps members become eligible to apply after receiving their first monthly allowance. This ensures that only serving members with verified accounts can access the loan.

Corps members who have previously taken the NYSC Advance can apply for another one before the first loan matures, provided certain conditions are met. They must have fully repaid the earlier loan, including all accrued interest. They must also remain active in the service year. The amount available for a new loan will depend on the number of months left before the completion of service.

Interested applicants can apply by dialing 7378*4# or through GTBank Internet Banking.

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