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CAF, ONCF Agree Travel Deal For 2025 AFCON

Chidi Uduma Nwoke
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CAF, ONCF Agree Travel Deal For 2025 AFCON

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe and the Office National des Chemins de Fer (ONCF), have concluded an agreement that will bring ease of travel for fans attending the Africa Cup of Nations, tagged Morocco 2025.

The agreement makes ONCF the Official Sponsor of the Competition, confirming its commitment to supporting one of Africa’s premier sporting events.

ONCF will implement a special train schedule throughout the competition to better serve fans with increased seat capacity during peak travel times. ONCF will announce special offers and travel packages for fans to seamlessly enjoy the AFCON 2025.

The signing ceremony was attended by Fouzi Lekjaa, President of Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football and CAF first Vice-President and CAF General Secretary, Veron Mosengo-Omba.

As Morocco’s leading mobility operator, ONCF will mobilise its expertise and national railway network to ensure fast, safe and comfortable travel for millions of fans. The initiative will facilitate easy movement between host cities and contribute to a seamless tournament experience.

Through this partnership, ONCF reaffirms its mission to connect territories and bring people together, placing sustainability and inclusion at the centre of its commitments.

The partnership aligns with the vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist him, to advance sport, strengthen African unity, and empower an ambitious and forward-looking youth.

This collaboration represents an important milestone in the preparation of a world-class TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025, dedicated to accessibility, sustainability, and the continued development and global influence of African football for the benefit of fans and local communities.

NFF Inaugurates FIFA Talent Development Scheme For Girls

Chidi Uduma Nwoke
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NFF Inaugurates FIFA Talent Development Scheme For Girls

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), have officially inaugurated the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS) for Girls in Abuja, at the Noble Hall Leadership Academy in Abuja.

This initiative follows the initial launch of a similar program for boys two years ago and is meant to provide support to member associations of FIFA to realise their full potential.

NFF President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, underscored the significance of the scheme, which is primarily designed for talent identification.

NFF President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau.

“This scheme is dedicated to uncovering talents among both boys and girls,” Gusau said. “Nigeria has consistently led women’s football in Africa for the past twenty-five years, a fact validated by recent CAF Award recognitions.”

“I extend my congratulations to these young girls as the first beneficiaries of this initiative. It is heartening to see that football remains a sport of interest among many young people, which is truly commendable.”

“I assure you that we will enlist experts to train and develop your skills, with the hope that some of you may represent Nigeria at the national level and perhaps emulate icons like Asisat Oshoala and Rasheedat Ajibade,” he added.

Gusau said  the program, established by FIFA, aims to advance the game of football globally, beginning from the grassroots level.

NFF’s Director of Competitions, Ruth David, who represented the General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi (MON), also shared a few words.

“The Talent Development Scheme (TDS) is part of FIFA’s collaborative efforts with Member Associations to enhance global competitiveness. It reflects a long-term commitment to nurturing talent worldwide,” David said.

Head of Women’s Football at the NFF, Amina Daura, expressed gratitude to the school management for their hospitality and elaborated on the foundation of the TDS program.

“We sincerely thank the school for hosting this program. It is designed to promote your talents in football, initiated by FIFA top official Arsene Wenger, to discover and develop your potential,” Daura said.

“Not only as players but also as future health-conscious individuals who can serve as coaches, referees, physiotherapists, doctors and psychologists. Football provides an avenue for discipline, health and career opportunities, especially for young girls from the grassroots level.”

In her closing remarks, the Proprietress of the Noble Hall Leadership Academy, Maryam Muttalab Duba, expressed appreciation to the NFF for selecting the institution as the venue for the launch.

She emphasised the school’s commitment to fostering future leaders and expressed hope that some students might one day represent Nigeria in football.

Attendees included the NFF Head of International Competitions, Dayo Enebi Achor; Head of the NFF National and Inter-Clubs Competitions, Dr Ayo Abdulrahaman; Chief Technical Officer, Abdulrafiu Yusuf, along with various officials and staff members of the NFF.

Unilorin Cardiologist Develops AI System for ECG Interpretation

Kamila Bello
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Unilorin Cardiologist Develops AI System for ECG Interpretation

A leading cardiologist from the University of Ilorin, Kwara State North Central Nigeria, Professor Ibraheem Katibi says a locally developed Artificial-Intelligence system capable of interpreting ECG readings for Africans is ready and undergoing final validation.

Speaking during an interview in Ilorin, the former Dean of the Medical School and current Director of the Central Research Laboratories said the innovation is designed to correct long-standing inaccuracies that arise from using diagnostic machines developed for Caucasian populations.

According to him, “several years of research by his team, in comparison with British, Indian and Chinese populations, have shown clear physiological differences in ECG patterns between Africans and Caucasians.”

He warned that relying on imported devices gives the wrong interpretation, which may lead to wrong diagnosis and inappropriate treatment.

Professor Katibi said “his team has now built a digital ECG system and an AI-powered diagnostic algorithm tailored to African populations.”

He explained that, “The tool will allow an individual to record and interpret an ECG using a mobile phone.”

He said the device is functional but not yet in the market.

“We have validated the diagnostic algorithm. What we want now is a larger-scale trial before commercialisation,” he noted.

He added that when completed, the innovation will allow people to check their heart status at home just as they check blood sugar or blood pressure from the comfort of their bedrooms and offices.

The Cardiologist decried the poor funding of research in Nigeria, saying government allocations remain far below global standards when juxtaposed with National Institutes of Health (NIH) of the United States for example.
He said the country cannot continue to rely on solutions developed abroad for problems that require local understanding.

Professor Katibi also highlighted structural gaps in research facilities, noting that many laboratories lack stable electricity, water, and essential equipment.

He said only sustained investment can reposition research centres and enable scientists to produce solutions that meet national needs.

On the challenges facing young Nigerian doctors, he said the problem is not competence but the harsh working environment. He attributed the heavy migration of medical personnel to poor remuneration, insecurity, and the inability of many doctors to afford basic tools, transportation, and accommodation.

He said Nigerian doctors excel abroad because they work in organised systems that reward effort and provide supportive conditions.

“Labor is global,” he said, adding that workers will naturally move to places where their skills are valued.

Professor Katibi urged leaders to prioritise peace, invest in education and health institutions, and fund research adequately. He also called on citizens to support current leadership while making informed decisions during elections.

Speaking on preventive health measures, he advised Nigerians to cut down on salt and food seasoning, exercise regularly, rest, and eat fruits and vegetables.

He said individuals already diagnosed with high blood pressure must keep hospital appointments and follow medical instructions strictly. Use of medications for hypertension and diabetes is usually for life.

On the link between traditional and modern medicine, he noted that countries such as Morocco, India and China have advanced by refining and repackaging their traditional herbs into safe formulations like immunity-boosting and calmness teas.

According to him, Nigeria needs to engage the traditional medical practitioners better for improved collaboration and larger good, including foreign exchange earnings.

Information Minister Lauds Successful Rescue of Niger State Students

Peace Piak Kanu
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Information Minister Lauds Successful Rescue of Niger State Students

Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris has described the rescue of the abducted students of St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School, Papyri, Niger State, as a moment of profound relief for the nation and for the families of the children.

The Minister made the statement when he led the Nigerian Government delegation to the Government House, Minna, to express gratitude and share in the relief and joy following the release and safe return of the school children.

Idris said; “The rescue of these children is a moment of profound relief for their families and for the entire nation. We are grateful for the tireless work of our security agencies, the swift response of the Niger State Government, and the strong community cooperation that made this outcome possible.”

He commended the coordinated efforts of security agencies, the Niger State Government, and community stakeholders, describing their collaboration as a decisive factor in the successful rescue operation.

Idris reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to strengthening security around schools and safeguarding learners nationwide.

He promised that the protection and welfare of Nigerian children remained a central priority of the Nigerian Government.

“Our children must be able to learn in safety. The Federal Government is committed to working closely with states to boost school security and ensure that such violations of our collective peace have no place in our country,” he added.

In his response, Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago praised the Minister and the delegation for the visit and commended the security agencies and local communities for their roles in securing the release of the pupils.

He restated the state’s commitment to continued collaboration with the Federal Government on security and social stability.

The delegation was received by the Governor of Niger State, His Excellency Umaru Mohammed Bago.

PIAK

Defence Minister Urges Promoted Officers To Deliver Results

Mosunmola Ore
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Defence Minister Urges Promoted Officers To Deliver Results

The Minister of Defence, Retired General Christopher Musa has urged the newly promoted senior officers of the Nigerian Army to justify their elevation with decisive leadership, stronger joint operations and measurable security outcomes across the country.

Musa was speaking at the decoration ceremony of newly promoted Major Generals at Command Officers Mess, Abuja marking a pivotal moment in the Army’s command evolution, recognising officers elevated into the strategic tier where decisions extend beyond battlefield outcomes to shaping Nigeria’s broader national security direction.

The Defence Minister described the event as both a personal and institutional milestone, framing the promotions as part of Nigeria’s broader effort to build a stronger, more capable and future ready Army.

The Minister said; “the ceremony was convened to celebrate excellence anchored on discipline, rigorous training, strategic leadership and unwavering dedication to national service, noting that the officers elevated were among the finest leaders within the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”

According to him, “the promotions reflected the confidence of the nation in the officers’ capacity to shoulder greater responsibilities at a time of persistent and evolving security threats.”

READ ALSO: General Musa Vows Swift Results in Strengthening Nigeria’s Security

“As Minister of Defence and immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, I know firsthand how rigorous and competitive the promotion process is. I commend the Chief of Army Staff, the senior leadership of the Nigerian Army and the Army Council for maintaining fairness, integrity and credibility in the system.

“These challenges are Nigerian challenges, and we must confront them together with unity of purpose. Nigerians are watching all of us. They demand results, and time is of the essence,” he said.

The Minister stressed that the newly promoted officers were now positioned at the strategic level of command, where their decisions would directly shape operational effectiveness and the future direction of the Nigerian Army, particularly in the fight against terrorism, insurgency, kidnapping and other emerging threats.

He also acknowledged the sacrifices of military families, expressing appreciation to spouses and relatives for enduring long separations, uncertainty and the demands of military life, while assuring them of the Federal Government’s continued commitment to improving welfare.

Recent Coup in Benin Republic

In a broader regional context, the Minister commended members of the Armed Forces for their swift and professional response to the recent attempted coup in the Republic of Benin.

He noted that their prompt action helped ensure the plot failed and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability.

Also addressing the Senior officers, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu urged them to embrace higher responsibility, strategic foresight and reform-driven leadership.

Lieutenant General Shaibu said; “the promotions reflected years of sacrifice, professionalism and confidence reposed in the officers by the institution, while reminding them that elevation comes with deeper accountability.”

According to the Chief of Army Staff, Nigeria continues to face complex and evolving threats ranging from terrorism and banditry to social disruptions and asymmetric challenges, making adaptive leadership and innovative operational thinking imperative at the strategic level.

“These promotions place you at a level where your decisions will influence not only tactical outcomes but the direction of our national security,” he said.

Lieutenant General Shaibu stressed that the Nigerian Army remains the cornerstone of national stability and constitutional order, noting that loyalty to the Constitution, the Commander-in-Chief and the Nigerian people must remain unwavering.

He also highlighted Nigeria’s critical role in safeguarding stability within the West African sub-region, emphasizing the Army’s responsibility in supporting regional efforts against violent extremism, securing shared borders and upholding democratic governance.

“The peace of individual nations directly contributes to the stability of our region,” Lieutenant General Shaibu said.

Addressing officers who were not promoted, the Army Chief urged patience and renewed commitment, describing progression in the Nigerian Army as “a deliberate journey guided by merit, diligence, loyalty, integrity and consistent professionalism.”

“The institution values character and professionalism. Stay focused, remain committed, and your recognition will come in due time,” Lieutenant General Shaibu said.

Expressing appreciation on behalf of the promoted colleagues, Major General Francis Omata appreciated the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, the Army leadership and the support of their spouses, acknowledging that the promotion is both an honour and a solemn call to greater responsibility in the service of the nation.

Major General Omata assured the Commander in Chief of the officers’ unwavering loyalty, devotion to duty and readiness to execute all assigned responsibilities in defence of Nigeria’s security and territorial integrity.

 

Lawmakers Summon CBN Governor Over N15trn Debt To Nigerian Government

Oluwasola Akintonde
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Lawmakers Summon CBN Governor Over N15trn Debt To Nigerian Government

The House of Representatives has unanimously summoned the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr. Yemi Cardoso to appear before its Committee On Public Accounts.

This was sequel to a motion titled: “Non-Remittance of over Five (5) Trillion Naira Operating Surplus and Eleven (11) Trillion Naira Government Revenue by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), moved by the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, Mr. Bamidele Salam.

Leading the debate on the motion, Mr. Sallam urged the House to invite the CBN governor to appear before it on Tuesday next week at 11:00 a.m. to explain the non-remittance of the identified government revenues and present concrete plan for immediate payment of all outstanding amounts into the designated federal government accounts.”

While moving the motion, Mr. Bamidele informed lawmakers of findings of his committee’s investigation into the Auditor General’s Report of 2022 financial year and the administration of the Remita Revenue Collection System by CBN from March 1, 2015 to April 30, 2016.

He said the Committee uncovered the following: “The CBN undisputed liability of ₦5.2 Trillion, in unpaid operating surpluses due to the FGN for the years ended 2016 to 2022, which has remained unremitted to date.

“Refunds of Collected Charges by the Central Bank of Nigeria
(a) Amount Collected by the Central Bank of Nigeria: ₦954,302,576.67
(b) Amount Refunded by the Central Bank of Nigeria: ₦0.00 (c) Difference/Variation ₦954,302,576.67 (d) Computed Interest at Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) of 27.25%: ₦2,329,027,728.92. (e) Total Amount Due for Refund: ₦3,283,330,305.05…”

The lawmaker also noted the discovery of a migration discrepancy amounting to ₦2,686,325,119,825.10 being outstanding and payable to the Federal Government’s Assets Recovery Account.

He expressed concern that cumulatively, the Committee has uncovered that the Central Bank of Nigeria is indebted
to the Nigerian Government of Nigeria in the sum of over ₦11 trillion, arising from the foregoing infractions and discrepancies.

“Despite several formal communicationsoo and invitations extended to the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria by the Public Accounts Committee to appear, provide explanations, and remit the outstanding amounts into designated Government accounts, the Central Bank of Nigeria has failed, refused, or neglected to honour the invitations or effect the required remittances as directed by the committee,” he added.

Disagreement over summon

Trouble started when Mr. Ghali Mustapha Tijjani from Kano state moved that the motion be amended for an ad-hoc committee to be constituted to handle the assignment and it was seconded by Mr. Mark Esset from Akwa Ibom state.

However, Mr. Ahmed Jaha (APC, Borno) kicked against the proposal, insisting that the House compel the CBN Governor to appear before the Public Accounts Committee which had been investigating the matter.

“The sacrosanct of this institution cannot at whatever level of influence be compromised because of the powerful nature of a head of an agency. The Committee on Public Accounts, we are all aware, is being chaired by a qualified, competent, and committed member, Honourable Bamidele Salam. He has the capacity, likewise his members of the committee. I know them. I am not a member of Public Accounts Committee.

“Mr Speaker, we are trying to strengthen him, not to undermine his committee. Mr. Speaker, we have to tell each other the truth. We should not undermine the sanctity of our committees.

“What I am trying to say is, in as much as the committee has written severally to the agency and they have not been honouring, this time around is a resolution of the House for them to appear before the committee.

“So, what I am trying to say in a nutshell is, let there be a resolution on the floor of this House, forcing and compelling the agency to appear before the Committee on Public Accounts whether they like it or not,” Jaha submitted.

Mr. Sada Soli while supporting the motion earlier, expressed concern over the stunning revelations by the Public Accounts panel which is the only constitutionally recognised committee.

He said that the House should invoke its relevant rules and summon the CBN governor stressing that his attitude towards the Public Accounts Committee is unacceptable.

“This is the only committee that is mentioned in the Constitution. Mr. Speaker, this committee is being chaired by an opposition, so I believe they will do the right thing, and I believe they have done the right thing.

“Mr. Speaker, the revelations in this motion are so damning, and they are contained with a lot of concern for the managers of the economy of this country. They must pay attention to this kind of reports.

“Mr. Speaker, I don’t think this House should invite the Governor of the CBN. This House should invoke Order 19, Rule 1, and Rule 2 of our order book. We don’t have to waste time to invite this public officer. We summon him, invoke our rules, and summon him.

“Why should the House invite him? After all, the committee that has been charged with the responsibility to do that mission not once, not twice, they have invited this public officer, an appointee of the President, disregarded the invitation of a committee, one committee that was mentioned in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, disregarded that, disrespected that committee, and the institution that appointed that committee.

“Mr. Speaker, that behaviour is unacceptable to this Parliament. It’s unacceptable to Nigeria, and I believe and I hope Mr. President and the managers of this economy are watching because the revelations in this motion are damning, and we should note that this motion is coming from an opposition.

“So I don’t think it is something that we should play with. It’s a wake-up call to those that manage this economy so that at least we will try to stop this rascality,” he added.

Also, Mr. Babajimi Benson moved that the ad-hoc committee proposed be populated by three committees; Finance, Banking Regulation Public Accounts.

He said; “This too was met with mixed reactions, as different groups of lawmakers either rejected or supported it during their separate quorums. The development heightened tension in the chamber, with Speaker Abbas Tajudeen—who presided over the sitting—struggling to calm the members.”

However when normalcy returned, Mr. Tijjani withdrew his amendment while Mr. Jaha proposed that the motion be amended to read: “the House do resolve to summon the CBN Governor and relevant agencies involved to appear before the Public Accounts Committee unfailing” and it was overwhelmingly adopted.

The rowdy session did not go down well with the speaker, Mr. Tajudeen Abbas, who warned members to be parliamentary in their approach to issues.

He said that issues should always be resolved democratically and not by shouting.

The motion was put to a voice vote and the “YES” had it.

The House resolved to invite the CBN Governor to appear.

 

Olusola Akintonde

TETFund Develops Security Master Plan for Tertiary Institutions

Peace Piak Kanu
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TETFund Develops Security Master Plan for Tertiary Institutions

The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has announced plans to develop a comprehensive security master plan for tertiary institutions nationwide.

The Chairman of the Board of Trustee, Aminu Bello Masari said this at the opening ceremony of a two-day workshop on campus security, held in Abuja.

The workshop aimed at developing a national security master plan for tertiary institutions in Nigeria.

Masari outlined the various threats facing tertiary institutions, including banditry, kidnapping, and cyber intrusions.

He explained that “the master plan aimed to enhance threat prevention, detection, and response capabilities.”

According to him, the workshop, attended by all Chief Security Officers of tertiary institutions, focused on various aspects of campus security, including intelligence gathering and emergency response mechanisms.

He stressed the shared responsibility of campus security among government, security agencies, administrators, students, staff, and communities. The workshop was described as a critical national document that would shape campus security policies and operations.

Masari encouraged participants to approach the deliberations with dedication, innovation, and practical solutions, adding that the outcomes would significantly impact the safety of campuses and the future of Nigerian tertiary education.

“What we begin here today is not merely another conference. It is a foundational step in developing a comprehensive, forward-looking security master plan for tertiary institutions in Nigeria. This master plan is expected to establish a security-of-time framework for all time-sharing institutions, transcend institutional capacity for threat prevention, detection, mitigation, and response, promote intelligence-led security operations and proactive risk management, protect students, staff, facilities, infrastructure, and intellectual assets, deepen collaboration between institutions, security agencies, and host communities, institutionalize emergency preparedness, crisis management and business continuity protocols, and integrate modern, physical and digital security technologies into campus operations

“These deliberations are not theoretical. They form the building blocks of the national framework that will guide campus security policies, investments, and operations for years to come. I am particularly encouraged by this diversity of participants. Present here are chief executives, Deans of Student Affairs, chief security officers, ICT professionals, security analysts, and representatives of law enforcement agencies,” Masari added.

In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Sonny Echono, highlighted that some campuses were porous and easily invaded, making them attractive targets for criminals.

Echono recalled a previous mapping exercise conducted to identify high-risk areas and establish emergency response mechanisms.

He stressed the need to interface with various agencies in case of a security breach, ensuring clear communication channels involving the military, police, and Civil Defence.

Echono also emphasised the importance of fire drills to prepare for emergencies and similar plans for security breaches, noting that immediate action and prevention strategies were crucial, not just infrastructure improvements.

“A limited impact, a modular safety approach, the collective safety of all those within that environment—this is the primary reason for this engagement. We must sensitise each participant that this risk is real. Criminal elements seek to invade our campuses, which are attractive because they house vulnerable populations, and some of our institutions are so porous that they can be easily invaded,” he said.

“We identified high-risk areas and assessed how emergency response mechanisms can be implemented. This is only the first layer of security at the source. Naturally, institutions must interface with multiple agencies in the event of such occurrences,” Echono added.

PIAK

Market Regulators Seek to Increase Engagement on ISA

Oluwasola Akintonde
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Market Regulators Seek to Increase Engagement on ISA

Capital market regulators and other market stakeholders have been urged to leverage popular culture, including musicians and footballers, to increase youth engagement with the recently enacted Investment Securities Act 2025.

The Senior Vice President (SVP) of Government Affairs at FMDQ Group, Emmanuel Etaderhi said this at the recently held annual conference of the Capital Market Correspondents Association of Nigeria under the theme, ‘Regulatory Reforms: ISA 2025 and Investment Climate’ in Lagos.

According to a report by an American blockchain analysis firm, Chainalysis, “the Sub-Saharan Africa is the third-fastest growing crypto market globally, behind only Asia-Pacific and Latin America, and the ISA 2025 has recognised virtual assets like cryptocurrencies which hold strong appeal for young Nigerians.”

The report also showed that the region received $205bn in on-chain value during the review period, a 52 per cent increase year-on-year. This jump was said to have been driven mostly by young Nigerians seeking to hedge against inflation and safeguard value.

Etaderhi said, “If you come to FMDQ these days, you will be surprised. I think we are more than 70 per cent youth. The young people are those people who are doing crypto and have the knowledge about digital currencies. Those people who have knowledge about the new products that have been introduced, the greater population in our offices, the smart tech guys, we are essentially a tech company.

“So it’s not just a document for today. It’s a document for the future. It’s a document that guarantees Nigeria’s development towards really becoming that beacon of hope, beacon of hope for Africa, the light of Africa. I insist, go back to the youths. Why? Because, as we all observed, this document gives life to their dreams and aspirations. But one aspect that is very vital, in all the gatherings, in all the engagements, in all the conferences and awareness sessions, which forum has called the youths together to explain this document to them in a language they understand?”

Highlighting the way to bridge that gap, Etaderhi stated, “The reason they can swiftly change to fintech is that these things are available to them digitally. They are available to them easily at the tip of their fingers. So your education programme, your awareness creation programme, your capacity building programme must be anchored on those digitalised sources.

“The youths believe in skits a lot. They believe a lot in things that have to do with followers, likes, and podcasts. If you want to teach them, you use their methodology to teach them so that they can understand and evolve their own ways of learning. You can’t use the old methods of learning to engage and attract youths; they don’t have the time to be reading one long article or one long essay. You need to put it into digitalised formats so that you can attract them.”

“You need to get endorsements from the big-time artists. Recognise individuals in the artistic space. Nigeria has colonised this world with music. In the deep heart of Morocco, Burna Boy is well-known. In Ireland, Davido is well-known. Everywhere, you need to bring these icons. Use them as a means to convey messages to the youths because the youths will always follow them. Major artists, major footballers. Football is something that’s crazily affecting all youths.

Use the means of these icons to attract attention to the capital markets. Bring them as your idols and ambassadors. Teach them first and enable them to spread the message to these youths because to attract somebody, you must look at what attracts the person’s attention,” he explained.

Speaking on the importance of reaching younger investors, Etaderhi said the law is “not just for today; it is for the future” and provides opportunities in digital currencies, sustainable finance, and innovative instruments like Sukuk.

He emphasised that to capture the attention of Nigeria’s youth, financial education and awareness programs must be delivered in formats they understand, including skits, podcasts, social media, and endorsements from cultural icons.

Highlighting FMDQ’s involvement in shaping ISA 2025, Etaderhi noted that the organisation participated in multiple committees, consultations, and engagements with legislators and market players.

“Two of our young professionals were recognised for their contributions, and this demonstrates the importance of including youth perspectives in developing forward-looking legislation,” he said.

Etaderhi stressed that ISA 2025 has the potential to transform Nigeria’s capital markets by fostering innovation, increasing transparency, and aligning investment opportunities with the aspirations of young Nigerians.

“If we engage the youth properly, using the channels they follow and admire, we can ensure that ISA 2025 is understood, embraced, and fully implemented,” he said.

On increasing awareness for Sukuks, a Sharia-compliant financial instrument that has funded infrastructure projects such as road development across Nigeria, Etaderhi said the ISA 2025 provides for it, and stakeholders could play a lot more in it.

“It (ISA 2025) speaks to digital currencies. It speaks to the description of SDGs in terms of composite and non-composite. It speaks to things like non-interest financial instruments. We are travelling from Asaba to Enugu. On the road, you see, this road was developed by Sukuk.

Sukuk is an instrument that we are not giving real push to. In spite of the fact that faith-wise, more than 50 per cent of us believe in that kind of instrument,” he said.

 

Olusola Akintonde

TETFUND, NACIMA Sign MoU to Foster Research, Innovation

Peace Piak Kanu
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TETFUND, NACIMA Sign MoU to Foster Research, Innovation

The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) and the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACIMA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at fostering research, innovation, and industry-ready graduates.

The Executive Secretary of TETFUND, Sonny Echono, expressed appreciation for the partnership at the signing of the MOU in Abuja on Wednesday.

He acknowledged that the collaboration aligned with the federal government’s vision of creating an economy driven by the skills, enterprise, and innovation of Nigerian youths.

“We welcome you to your fund, as well as all the excellent initiatives that have brought us together. Today’s signing is the culmination of long-standing efforts between TETFUND and NACIMA. This collaboration focuses on research, innovation, and producing graduates fit for purpose, ready to contribute effectively to industry. It is central to the triple helix model we have championed and supports the President’s goal of harnessing Nigeria’s human and material resources for national development,” he said.

The MOU outlined several key objectives, including promoting research and innovation that addressed industrial and societal needs; facilitating the commercialisation of research outcomes; strengthening capacity building, skills development, and entrepreneurship initiatives; encouraging investment and joint ventures between academia and industry; supporting policy advocacy and knowledge sharing; and promoting job creation, startup growth, and inclusive innovation.

Echono further emphasised the potential of the partnership to stimulate economic growth.

“If we harness the talent of our youths and equip them with critical thinking, cultural awareness, and problem-solving skills, we can not only advance Nigeria’s economy but also address global skills gaps,” he added.

The National President of NACIMA, Jani Ibrahim, highlighted the critical role of industry-education collaboration.

He outlined the mutual benefits for NACIMA and TETFUND, including structured access to the private sector, industry-informed research, internship and industrial attachment opportunities, and enhanced commercialisation of innovations.

“Development must be driven by knowledge, innovation, skills, enterprise, and strong industry-education partnerships. This MOU provides a bridge for graduates to gain practical skills and for research institutions to commercialise knowledge and contribute to national productivity. For the business community, this partnership will guide research priorities towards industry needs, build a more competent workforce, and ultimately enhance productivity, competitiveness, and investment,” he said.

Ibrahim also noted that the collaboration aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which strengthened TETFUND through improved funding efficiency, upgraded research infrastructure, and a focus on skills-driven and technology-based learning.

“This partnership reinforces the federal government’s commitment to an education sector that is innovative, industry-aligned, and globally competitive,” he added.

He described the MOU not as an end but as the beginning of a strategic journey to build a stronger education-industry nexus, enhance national competitiveness, and unlock opportunities for young Nigerians and businesses alike.

Ekiti PDP Governorship Candidate Oluwole Receives Certificate of Return

Bilkisu Halilu Pai
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Ekiti PDP Governorship Candidate Oluwole Receives Certificate of Return

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate for the 2026 Ekiti State gubernatorial election, Dr Oluyede Oluwole, has received his Certificate of Return in Abuja.

Dr Oluwole, while receiving the certificate, expressed joy over the support he received from the PDP and the people of Ekiti State.

“I want to thank the leadership of our great party under the National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, party faithful, friends, supporters, ladies and gentlemen. Today, I stand before you deeply humbled, profoundly grateful to God, and fully committed to the responsibility entrusted to me.

“Receiving this Certificate of Return is not a personal honour; it is a mandate, a call to serve, and a testament to the collective will of our great party and the good people of Ekiti State.”

He thanked the PDP leadership at both national and state levels for ensuring a transparent and credible primary election and commended the delegates for exercising their voting rights responsibly.

Dr Oluwole also acknowledged his co-aspirants for enriching the democratic process.

“Today we are all winners, and Ekiti State is the greatest winner of all.”

He extended appreciation to the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, for providing strong leadership and support throughout the ad hoc delegates’ congress and the governorship primaries.

He similarly thanked Senator Abdul Mlingi and Ibrahim Dankwambo, who chaired the delegate congress and governorship primaries, respectively, noting that their commitment to fairness strengthened the credibility of the exercise.

Addressing Ekiti residents, he said, “This victory is not about Dr Wole Oluyede. It is about you—your hopes, dreams, and desire for a government that listens, cares, and delivers.

“Ekiti is a land of brilliance, courage, and immense potential, yet governance failures have slowed our progress. Our mission is clear: to restore good governance, revive our economy, uplift our communities, strengthen security, and return Ekiti to the path of lasting prosperity.”

He promised to prioritise functional and globally competitive education, accessible healthcare, youth empowerment, and security across all communities.

Dr Oluwole appealed to party members to unite ahead of the general election and urged co-aspirants who have gone to court to reconsider.

“It is your right to seek redress, but I urge you to sheath your swords. Only one candidate can emerge at a time. Court cases are needless distractions and risk sending the wrong message about our unity.”

He concluded with a pledge of service.

“I will serve with integrity, humility, dedication, and compassion. This certificate is a covenant of service. By God’s grace and with your support, we shall celebrate an even greater victory at the polls next June.”

National Chairman Reaffirms Oluwole’s Candidacy

Earlier, the PDP National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, commended the party faithful for their unity and turnout at the presentation ceremony.

He stated that the presence of key PDP leaders, former governors, former ministers, National Assembly members, and founding members of the party was a clear affirmation of the party’s strength and cohesion.

He declared that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) recognises the activities of the PDP, thereby validating the candidacy of Dr Oluwole Oluyede.

Quoting a legal maxim, Turaki said, “Res ipsa loquitur,-the thing speaks for itself. Nigerians have today seen the crème de la crème of the PDP. A strong statement has been made.

“This is PDP. This is where the PDP is. And this is where the PDP will continue to be.”

He then invited Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, the returning officer, along with other national officers, to publicly sign the Certificate of Return before presenting it to Dr Oluwole.

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