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UNICEF, Unilever Empower Over 600,000 Nigerian Youths Through Career Devt Program

UNICEF, Unilever Empower Over 600,000 Nigerian Youths Through Career Devt Program

 Funmi Ogundare 

UNICEF has announced that its partnership with Unilever on the Generation Unlimited (GenU) Naija initiative, has already impacted over 600,000 young Nigerians. 

Speaking at the second annual Future-X Campus Ambassadors Programme (FUCAP) seminar at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Tuesday, the Head of UNICEF’s Lagos Field Office and National Lead for GenU Nigeria, Celine Lafoucriere, described the results as remarkable, noting that the partnership has already reached over five million students with career and employability skills.

“This partnership with Unilever is significant because it delivers real tools, career guidance, soft skills training, and apprenticeship opportunities that help young people move from learning to earning,” Lafoucriere said. “In just two years, we’re already close to our goal. With continued momentum, we may even exceed one million youth impacted by the third year.”

She described FUCAP as a core part of the Generation Unlimited Naija platform, a nationwide public-private initiative aimed at equipping Nigerian youth with the skills, networks and opportunities needed for meaningful employment, adding that UNILAG students, in particular, have been highly active in the programme, participating in mentorship sessions, CV clinics, and innovation pitches focused on issues like sanitation and hygiene.

“Today isn’t just about skills, it’s about belief,” Lafoucriere told students. “Belief in your talent, your leadership, and your ability to shape Nigeria’s future.”

Skill Development Specialist, UNICEF (Generation Unlimited), Bharat Kundra, emphasised the urgency of addressing youth unemployment, a global challenge now taking centre stage in Nigeria, where over 70 per cent of the population is under 30.

“Youth unemployment is one of the biggest challenges of the 21st century,” Kundra said. “It’s not just Nigeria, it’s everywhere, developed, developing, and middle-income countries alike. But here, with more than 100 million young people, the stakes and the potential are massive,” Kundra said.

The initiative, he noted, began by targeting 20 universities and polytechnics across Nigeria in its first phase, selecting institutions where youth are concentrated and preparing to enter the workforce, adding that it aims to impact 700,000 Nigerian youths by 2026.

“This is just the beginning,” Kundra added. “Our ultimate goal is to help young people transition from learning to earning. We believe in their innovation, agility and risk-taking spirit — qualities vital for the future of work.”

The programme’s growth, the specialist said, is being supported by multiple global and local stakeholders, including Microsoft, SAP, IHS, Airtel and Nigerian federal and state government bodies. 

“Nigeria’s Vice-President, Kashim Shettima, has agreed to chair the national board of Generation Unlimited. This move is expected to catalyse widespread attention and policy support,” he stated.

Speaking with journalists, the HR and Employer Brand Project Specialist at Unilever, Oreoluwa Dina, explained that the initiative is not only meeting its goals but exceeding expectations. “From last year until now, we’ve impacted more than 200,000 young people, and in this year alone, over 150,000 and we’re still counting,” she said.

The programme includes in-person seminars and online learning, covering topics such as CV writing, career path selection, workplace readiness and entrepreneurship. Unilever’s level-up entrepreneurship skills course is one of the key offerings, designed to help young Nigerians not only seek jobs but also become job creators.

“We’ve noticed that the labour market cannot absorb everyone,” Dina said. “So we’re also equipping young people to start their own ventures, to become employers themselves.”

In addition to skill-building, the initiative also provides real-world internship opportunities, helping youth apply their knowledge in practical work environments. “It’s not just about teaching skills,” Dina emphasised. “It’s about making sure they can use them.”

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Development Services, University of Lagos, Prof. Afolabi Leshi, emphasised on the alignment between the institution’s strategic vision and the goals of the FUCAP initiative. 

He explained that UNILAG’s ‘Future Ready’ agenda, championed by the vice-chancellor, is focused on building the capacity of students, faculty, and staff to anticipate and solve emerging societal problems.

“Being future ready means having the ability to foresee and address problems that may not even exist yet,” he said. “And that starts with empowering people, particularly our students with the right mindset and soft skills to become solution providers in a fast-changing world.”

He emphasised that the problems facing Nigeria and Africa at large will ultimately be solved by Africans who are well-equipped to engage the future. “This programme, which focuses on soft skills, leadership, and workplace readiness, fits perfectly into our development vision,” Leshi added.

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 Funmi Ogundare  UNICEF has announced that its partnership with Unilever on the Generation Unlimited (GenU) Naija initiative, has already impacted over 600,000 young Nigerians.  Speaking at the second annual Future-X

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Fanimokun Calls for National Reorientation, Entrepreneurial Focus to Tackle Nigeria’s Dev’t Challenges

Fanimokun Calls for National Reorientation, Entrepreneurial Focus to Tackle Nigeria’s Dev’t Challenges

Funmi Ogundare 

A former Lagos State Permanent Secretary and Chairman of the Distinguished Service Excellence (DSE) Foundation, Chief Tunde Fanimokun, Tuesday, called for urgent national reorientation and entrepreneurial focus to drive sustainable development.

Speaking at the inaugural Folawiyo Entrepreneurship Centre annual lecture series and business idea competition at the Yaba College of Technology, Fanimokun outlined critical challenges obstructing Nigeria’s advancement, including mismanagement of the nation’s vast natural wealth, neglect of agriculture, persistent import dependency, fragmented and uncoordinated development ecosystem, failure to turn oil discovery into true national prosperity, ferocious and growing youth unemployment, among others.

“These are not just issues, they are the root causes of Nigeria’s underdevelopment,” he said. “We are blessed with inexhaustible abundance by the creator, but without visionary leadership, no environment can thrive.”

In his paper  titled, ‘Entrepreneurship: The Central Pillar of Accelerated Sustainable Development in Nigeria,’ he stressed that entrepreneurship must be embraced as a national strategy. 

He noted that its inclusion in university curricula and initiatives like the Enterprise Development Services (co-funded by the World Bank) reflect growing recognition of its value.

Using the legacy of former Lagos State Governor, the late Alhaji Lateef Jakande, as a public sector case study, he argued that entrepreneurship is not limited to private ventures. 

Jakande’s transformative work in housing, education and public infrastructure, Fanimokun said, provides a blueprint for entrepreneurial leadership within government.

He also praised the late Chief Wahab Iyanda Folawiyo, the inspiration behind the lecture series, for building a multifaceted business empire across sectors including banking, oil and gas, shipping, and agriculture. “Chief Folawiyo’s journey shows how discipline and vision can elevate Nigerian businesses to the global stage,” he noted.

The Chairman of the Yaba College of Technology Governing Council, Prof. Funsho Afolabi, described the lecture series as a launchpad for new ideas and ventures, adding that Nigeria needs job creators, not just job seekers. “The Yinka Folawiyo Model Series is not just an event, it’s a movement,” he stated.

The Rector of YABATECH, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, said the programme would serve as a platform to inspire and nurture the next generation of ethical and innovative entrepreneurs. 

“This is about building a legacy of impactful leadership and nation-building,” he said.

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Funmi Ogundare  A former Lagos State Permanent Secretary and Chairman of the Distinguished Service Excellence (DSE) Foundation, Chief Tunde Fanimokun, Tuesday, called for urgent national reorientation and entrepreneurial focus to

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2025 UTME: 11 CBT Centres Risk Blacklisting Over Fingerprint Malpractice

2025 UTME: 11 CBT Centres Risk Blacklisting Over Fingerprint Malpractice

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has recommended tough penalties for 11 Computer‑Based Test (CBT) centres and their registrants involved in fingerprint irregularities during registration for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

The Registrar/Chief Executive of JAMB, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, stated this after a brainstorming session with some critical stakeholders following a meeting with the affected CBT centres and registrants on Tuesday in Abuja.

Oloyede said the measures, which still require the approval of the Education Minister, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, were intended to protect the integrity of the examination process.

“The leadership of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board with some critical stakeholders here recommends as follows: That any registrant who has registered more than 50 candidates (with infractions) should be dismissed from participating in any activities of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board.

“And what that means, is that such a person will not participate in any UTME exercise, will not be registered for the UTME even as a student, and will not be allowed to participate in any of the sister examinations, be it WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB, and this is to be for three years.

“The suspension is to stay for three years. After three years, the Board will revisit it and look at the issue. If the registrant has shown any remorse, such a suspension could be lifted.

“And others who have registered less than 50 will be warned and they will be required to write a letter of apology to the Board after issuing a bond, indicating that they will not be involved in such a thing again,” Oloyede said.

The CBT centres involved, Oloyede said, are to be warned and then asked to sign a bond, adding that beside the bond, they will also be required to give evidence of training of their registrants.

“And that training should be anchored by any of the federal universities within their vicinity. That training should be anchored by the appropriate department of the university within their vicinity,” Oloyede said through JAMB’s Public Communication Adviser, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, who read out the recommendations.

Throwing more light on the recommendations, Oloyede said the Board will not entertain any infraction from the affected centres in the future, despite their claim of ignorance, hence, the need for them to undergo necessary training in federal universities closest to them before they can be re-engaged by JAMB.

“We will not allow any of these centres to do anything with us until they bring a certificate, a letter from a federal institution closest to that centre that their staff had been trained on ethical standards.

“But for the centres, those that are owned by the Federal Government, the reports will be made to the authorities that this is what your agency did,” Oloyede said.

Earlier, most of the affected registrants and some CBT operators, who confessed engaging in candidate’s fingerprint contribution during the registration process, hinged the act on ignorance or the need to get more people registered in their centres, even as many broke down in tears and pleaded for leniency.

One of the stakeholders at the meeting and former Lagos Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, said the actions of the affected registrants warrant prosecution and possible jail term, but appealed to JAMB to forgive and make them sign undertaking not to engage in such infraction in the future.

Also, an official of Jicoras CBT Centre, Bashir Gumel, said the centre had already commenced an internal probe on the involvement of its registrants, saying the outcome will be forwarded to JAMB.

“We have summoned all of them to come here and we have heard what they have done. And they have confessed that to retain the integrity of our institution, this will not go like that. They have to be punished.

“And we promise that the action that will be taken will be shared with the JAMB office. And in that regard, again, our centre is not an established centre. We are in the catchment area where there are very few CBT centres.

“Because this is our first time, and we were not aware of such an occurrence. We promised that this will never occur again,” Gumel said.

The affected CBT centres that were invited for the meeting include Misau Emirate ICT Centre, Misau, Bauchi State; Ijaw National Academy, Kiama, Bayelsa State; Directorate of ICT Nigerian Army University, Biu, Gombe State; Emerald IT Academy Limited, Benin City, Edo State; Tigh Technologies, Sascon International School, Maitama, Abuja; Jicoras CBT Centre, Babura, Jigawa State and Huntsville Technology Limited, Anthony, Lagos State.

Others are Jolas College CBT Centre, Obalende, Lagos; Abdul Ocean Wealth CBT Centre, Ibadan, Oyo State; National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN),Wase, Plateau State and the Consulate Salle D’Examen CBT Centre, By Jonny Lane/Navy Barrack Agip Estate, Rivers State.

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Kuni Tyessi in Abuja The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has recommended tough penalties for 11 Computer‑Based Test (CBT) centres and their registrants involved in fingerprint irregularities during registration

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Mbaise to Host Iriji Cultural

Mbaise to Host Iriji Cultural

Mary Nnah

The people of Mbaise in Imo State are set to host their annual Iriji Mbaise Cultural Festival, and have called on government agencies to embark on the rehabilitation of roads in the area.

According to a statement signed by the Ezuruezu Mbaise PRO, Chief Christian Nwokocha, the festival, which will take place at the Town School Itu in Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area on August 15, 2025,  promises to be a grand celebration of Mbaise’s rich cultural heritage.

The Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Chief Steve Onu, stated that the ceremony would feature an exhibition of Mbaise cultural ensembles, complementing the status of Iriji Mbaise as a veritable national cultural festival.

Meanwhile, Louis Alozie (SAN) will chair the occasion.

Onu called on the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to critically examine the Lagwa Monkey Colony, Ahiara Declaration Centre, Mbari Cultural Centre, Nguru, and other tourist sites in Mbaise with a view to rehabilitating and providing tourist guides for Mbaise visitors, particularly during the cultural festival.

The committee chairman also appealed to the managers of hospitality industries to upgrade and clean up their hotel facilities and eateries in preparation for the 2025 Iriji Mbaise Cultural Festival.

“We call on the managers of hospitality industries to upgrade and clean up their hotel facilities and eateries in preparation for the 2025 Iriji Mbaise Cultural Festival”, he emphasised.

Furthermore, Chief Onu appealed to the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, to graciously approve the rehabilitation of roads in the area for easy access to every nook and cranny of Mbaise during the cultural festival. He stated that fixing roads in Mbaise would boost the image of the state government, particularly in the eyes of Nigerians and foreigners who are eager to witness the Iriji Mbaise Cultural Festival, 2025.

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Mary Nnah The people of Mbaise in Imo State are set to host their annual Iriji Mbaise Cultural Festival, and have called on government agencies to embark on the rehabilitation

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Forbearance: Zenith Bank Clarifies Position, Upbeat on Dividend Payment This Year

Forbearance: Zenith Bank Clarifies Position, Upbeat on Dividend Payment This Year

Obinna Chima

Zenith Bank Plc on Wednesday clarified its position on the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) regulatory forbearance directives, just as it expressed optimism about paying dividends to its shareholders in the current financial year.
The bank in a statement by its Company Secretary, Michael Out, also pointed out that it had successfully raised and surpassed the new regulatory capital requirement of N500 billion.
It explained: “We refer to the recent circular issued by the CBN concerning regulatory forbearance in respect of Single Obligor Limit (SOL) and other credit facilities. Zenith Bank Plc wishes to provide the following clarifications in compliance with the Rulebook of the Exchange, 2015 (Issuers’ Rules).
“The bank has successfully raised and surpassed the new regulatory capital requirement of N500 billion. The bank’s exposure under the SOL forbearance relates solely to a single obligor. We are confident that this exposure will be brought within the applicable regulatory limit on or before June 30, 2025.
“With respect to the forbearance granted on other credit facilities, the bank confirms that this applies to only two customers. We have made substantial provisions in respect of these facilities and have taken appropriate and comprehensive steps to ensure full provisioning by June 30, 2025. Upon completion, the bank will no longer be under any forbearance arrangements in this regard. The bank expects to have exited all CBN forbearance arrangements by the end of the first half of 2025.
“Accordingly, we remain confident that the bank will satisfy all relevant conditions to enable it pay dividend to shareholders in the current year.”
In a circular dated June 13, 2025, and signed by Director of Banking Supervision, Dr. Olubukola Akinwunmi, the CBN had instructed all banks currently under regulatory forbearance to suspend the payment of dividends to shareholders, bonuses to directors and senior executives, and investments in offshore subsidiaries or new foreign ventures.
The move, according to the apex bank, was part of a broader strategy to ensure that banks operating under forbearance supervision strengthened their financial resilience and fully complied with capital adequacy and loan provisioning standards.
CBN had emphasised that the restrictions were temporary and will be lifted once key conditions were met, a full exit from regulatory forbearance, and independent verification of capital and provisioning levels as being within acceptable regulatory thresholds.
The CBN directives were designed to ensure full provisioning for high-risk exposures and improve cash-based profitability metrics.
However, on Tuesday, in a move aimed at calming market jitters and ensuring smooth transition from regulatory forbearance, the CBN affirmed the strength of the Nigerian bank sector, revealing that it issued routine transitional guidance to banks navigating post-forbearance adjustments.
Precisely, the central bank stated that the time-bound measures are for some banks still completing their transition from the temporary regulatory support it had provided them.

In a statement signed by its Acting Director, Corporate Communications, Mrs. Hakama Sidi Ali, the apex bank stated that the step was part of the CBN’s broader, sequenced strategy to implement the recapitalisation programme announced in 2023.

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Obinna Chima Zenith Bank Plc on Wednesday clarified its position on the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) regulatory forbearance directives, just as it expressed optimism about paying dividends to its

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Lagos Aligns with Tax Body on Promoting Transparency

Lagos Aligns with Tax Body on Promoting Transparency

Omolabake Fasogbon

The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to effective and transparent  tax administration,  just as it has  intensified efforts to boost revenue for infrastructure development.

Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu declared this recently at the investiture ceremony of  Mr Innocent Ohagwa as the 17th President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria(CITN), assuring  the  institute  of state’s cooperation  to drive voluntary tax compliance. 

Sanwo-Olu represented by his Special Adviser on Taxation and Revenue, Mr. Opeyemi  Ogungbo, lauded the institute’s influence in shaping national taxation and reforms proven to have enhanced tax system and professional practice.

He expressed confidence in the  capacity of the 17th President to lead CITN to new heights, citing his  track records and expertise in taxation spanning  over three decades, which have earned  him prestigious roles within and outside the institute across the continent. 

Sanwo-Olu further charged Ohagwa on innovative practice,  emphasising that  his emergence came at a critical point in Nigeria’s fiscal landscape, while he pledged fullest support and collaboration. 

“Lagos State remains a committed partner in the pursuit of effective tax administration and innovation. We will support efforts that drive transparency, accountability, and sustainable development,”he stated. 

In a keynote address themed, “ The Tax Professionals of Tomorrow: Skills, Ethics  and Innovation “,  Professor of Accounting at Nasarawa State University, Muhammad Mainoma, noted that traditional tax model was become obsolete for evolving global economy, and heightened demand for accountability and transparency. 

According to him, global initiatives like Base Erosion and Profit Shifting(BEPs) project, Common Reporting Standard(CRS) and push for global minimum tax are redefining tax jurisdictions, so also are tax functions  increasingly integrated with business process  such as corporate governance and sustainability reporting, thus placing ethical demands on practice. 

He said: “ The society demands a higher standard of ethical conduct from tax practitioner. In an age where public trust in institutions is fragile, tax professional play a key role in ensuring fair and transparent taxation. Ethical lapses not only harm client’s interest but also damage public confidence in the  system as  a whole.  As such, tomorrow’s tax professional must be guided by strong ethical principles that balance legal with social responsibility”. 

In his acceptance speech, Ohagwa  pledged  commitment to service, stating that his priorities align with the institute’s strategic plan. Some of his identified action points  included capacity enhancement for taxation stakeholders,  collaboration with key stakeholders on implementation of recent fiscal and tax reforms and improvement of service delivery channels and process, amongst others. 

He further reminded members on the need to be sufficiently  acquainted with the recently passed four economic stabilisation bill by the National Assembly. 

“Members are encouraged as a matter of deliberate efforts to ensure that they take passionate interest to seek and understand the content of the bill to enable them maximise the opportunities that tax reforms provide to professionals  and other stakeholders,” he informed. 

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Omolabake Fasogbon The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to effective and transparent  tax administration,  just as it has  intensified efforts to boost revenue for infrastructure development. Governor of Lagos State, Mr

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Oborevwori Reiterates Commitment to Empowering Youths on Digital Economy

Oborevwori Reiterates Commitment to Empowering Youths on Digital Economy

Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has restated his administration’s unwavering commitment to equipping youths in the state with requisite skill training and other incentives that would help them to successfully navigate the rapidly evolving technologically driven economy.

The governor stated this during the closing ceremony of the first M.O.R.E Delta State Information and Communication Technology Youth Empowerment Programme (ICT-YEP), held in Asaba, noting that it was another major step in the “shared journey toward a more prosperous, innovative and inclusive Delta State.”

“Today’s ceremony stands as a bold testament to our administration’s unwavering commitment to equipping the next generation of Deltans with the tools to thrive in a rapidly evolving world,” Oborevwori declared.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr Kingsley Emu, the governor said that his administration, through the ICT-YEP initiative, was deliberately charting a new course; one where Delta youths would not be merely job seekers but entrepreneurs, job creators, innovators and builders prepared for a technology-driven future.

Oborevwori said: “In this digital age, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is not optional; it is the engine of modern progress. It shapes how we communicate, learn, conduct business and unlock new opportunities.” 

“From global enterprises to grassroots innovation, ICT is redefining economies and Delta State must not be left behind.”

“This is why, under the M.O.R.E Agenda, we have strategically prioritized the empowerment of our youth with relevant digital skills. The ICT-YEP programme is a flagship initiative designed to unleash the creative energy of our young minds, drive innovation, generate employment and lay the groundwork for economic diversification beyond oil.”

“To the 300 outstanding young Deltans who have completed this rigorous training, I say, ‘Congratulations! You have taken the first step on a journey filled with endless possibilities. You are now armed with knowledge, driven by purpose and ready to transform not only your own lives but the future of our dear State.” 

“Therefore, I urge you to stay focused, be bold in your ideas and use your skills to uplift your communities and contribute meaningfully to society.”

“You are not just graduates; you are pioneers of a new Delta State. A Delta where innovation thrives, where young people  lead with vision and where technology is not merely a tool but a transformative force for development.”

He commended the State Ministry of Science and Technology, the programme’s organising committee and our dedicated team of facilitators and volunteers for the commitment, passion and professionalism. “You have laid the foundation for a legacy that will continue to empower generations of Deltans.”

“As we close this first chapter, let us look ahead with optimism and determination. Let us continue to work together, government, private sector, partners and citizens, to build a Delta State where opportunities abound and where every young person is inspired to dream, to dare and to achieve.”

While congratulating the beneficiaries, the governor charged youths to be positively focused, dream big and embrace technology in pursuit of excellence as they navigate the future.

In his welcome address, the State Commissioner for Science and Technology, Dr Odinigwe Daniel Odigie, harped on the invaluable place of ICT training in our digital age and challenged the beneficiaries to express appreciation to the Oborevwori administration by using the equipment and starter-packs provided them judiciously. 

Odigie said: “This initiative stands as a bold step under the M.O.R.E. Agenda to equip our youth with critical digital skills for a fast-paced and technology-driven world.”

“ICT-YEP is not merely a training program; it is a platform for transformation. It is a testament to this administration’s commitment to Mentor, Orient, Resource, and Empower the next generation, in keeping with His Excellency’s  M.O.R.E Agenda vision of providing opportunities for all.”

“Through its specialized tracks in ICT for self-employment, start-up development, and digital media, Our ministry under the leadership of His Excellency Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, is  providing our youth with the tools to innovate, compete, and lead in the digital economy. Building on the success of our past programmes, we are proud to announce the empowering of 300 young Deltans in this edition, with the assurance that they can setup startups and contribute to the development of our state in the digital world.

This initiative reflects our vision for a digitally inclusive Delta State, a state where every young person is not just a user of technology but is empowered to become a builder, creator, and solution provider. By investing in their potential, we are laying the foundation for sustainable growth and a technology enabled society that thrives on innovation and enterprise. Just as we’ve seen remarkable breakthroughs from our past participants (in similar programmes), we anticipate even greater achievements from this year’s set.”

The commissioner charged the beneficiaries to brace up to challenge to become innovators, builders, entrepreneurs and employers of labour in the fast evolving global digital economy.

 Odigie told the trainees, “This is your moment; embrace it, maximise the opportunity, and let technology become a catalyst for the change you desire.” 

“With the support of Government, industry partners and mentors, we are confident that you will lead the change in building a prosperous and technology ready Delta State.”

The highpoint of the event was the presentation of certificates and starter-packs, including laptop computers to all the successful trainees.

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Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has restated his administration’s unwavering commitment to equipping youths in the state with requisite skill training and other incentives that would

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Tinubu, Kalu  Lauded for Newly-approved Tertiary Institutions in South-east

Tinubu, Kalu  Lauded for Newly-approved Tertiary Institutions in South-east

Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja

A member of the North East Development Commission (NEDC), Sam Onuigbo, has lauded President Bola Tinubu and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, for signing into law three higher education bills for the South-east region.

Onuigbo praised the president and Deputy Speaker for the momentous event, noting that by the singular legislative action, the two leaders have expanded access to tertiary institutions for young people in the zone.

President Tinubu had recently signed into law three bills establishing federal tertiary institutions in the region. The Deputy Speaker sponsored the two bills for the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, and the Federal College of Education, Bende, Abia State, and strongly lobbied for assent for the Federal University, Okigwe, Imo State.

Onuigbo in a statement he personally signed and made available to journalists said: “This legislative achievement comes as a clear demonstration of Kalu’s visionary leadership, deep commitment to educational development, and dedication to the socio-economic advancement of the Southeast and the nation at large.

“And for the president, I doff my heart for the expeditious assent to these timeless and transformative bills. In fact, by this act, Mr. President, you have once again demonstrated your administration’s commitment to inclusive development, nation-building, and the empowerment of our youth through education.”

He maintained that the three new institutions would not only expand access to quality education, but also catalyse the socio-economic growth in Abia and Imo States.

According to him, “Without doubt, Kalu’s legislative foresight and effective advocacy continue to inspire hope for a better future and sustainable progress for the younger generation. His understanding and collaboration with the presidency have continued to pave the way for generations of Nigerians to access quality education.

“It is by creating such equal opportunities and striving to build a brighter future for the next generation that the nation’s greatness is assured. And, for this, all well-meaning people and I from the Southeast are hugely grateful.”

Onuigbo, who was also the sponsor of Nigeria’s signature legislation, the Climate Change Act, generally known as Sam Onuigbo Climate Change Act 2021, noted that what Tinubu and Kalu had done through the new institutions prepares a greater number of younger Nigerians for the rapidly expanding global economy knowledge.

Onuigbo, who is also the chairman of the Security and Climate Change Committee on the NEDC Governing Board, observed that with more young people getting access to quality education, the nation would be assured of qualitative home-grown and adaptive solutions to various socio-economic challenges associated with climate change and food insecurity.

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Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in Abuja A member of the North East Development Commission (NEDC), Sam Onuigbo, has lauded President Bola Tinubu and the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin

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Police Foil Attempt to Kidnap Victim’s Sister in Niger, Arrest Two Suspects

Police Foil Attempt to Kidnap Victim’s Sister in Niger, Arrest Two Suspects

Laleye Dipo in Minna

The police in Minna, Niger State have stated that they foiled an attempt by two suspected kidnappers to abduct the sister of a kidnap victim in Kata community of New Bwari in Tafa Local Government Area of the state.

The state Police Public Relations Officer(PPRO), Superintendent of Police Wasiu Abiodun, in a statement said two suspects, 28-year-old Japhet James of Ijah- Gwari town and 30-year-old Usman Ibrahim have been arrested in connection with the crime.

Abiodun said the suspects were arrested last Saturday with a locally made pistol, two knives, a walkie-talkie, two cartridges, four handsets, one ATM card, two electric Tasers, a pepper sprayer, and some charms.

The police spokesman said the suspects reportedly entered the premises of the  victim in Kata town near New-Bwari and attempted to kidnap his sister, adding that police operatives at Tafa division were immediately contacted  leading  to their arrest.

Abiodun said during interrogation, the suspects confessed  that they (suspects) arranged to abduct the lady in order to request ransom, adding that items recovered from them were bought from one of their members under the disguise of being members of the civilian Joint Task Force (JTF) members.

He said the case is still under investigation.

In a related incident, the police spokesman also disclosed that two suspected armed robbers were arrested by the police and soldiers in a forest on the Abuja-Kaduna expressway in Gauraka area after they attempted to evade arrest.

The suspects, Idris Umar, 20, and Umaru Mohammed, 24, were from Kano State, and were arrested with one axe, one knife, four bags, six wrappers, 10 ATM cards, two purses, slippers and other stolen items.

Abiodun said the suspects were believed to be part of the robbers that  raided some hotels and residences at APC Quarters 2 in Suleja town recently.

He added that investigation into the incident is still in progress.

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Laleye Dipo in Minna The police in Minna, Niger State have stated that they foiled an attempt by two suspected kidnappers to abduct the sister of a kidnap victim in Kata