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FG Unveils Fresh Push for Youth Prosperity as Tinubu Declares: Young Nigerians Will Not Be Sidelined

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has once again placed Nigeria’s young population at the forefront of national transformation, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reaffirming that youth will remain central to the country’s development agenda.

Speaking through his Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Olufemi Akeem Gbajabiamila, at the Nigeria Youth Academy (NIYA) Startup Grant Award Ceremony and the launch of NIYA Gigs on Tuesday at the State House Conference Hall, Abuja, the President emphasized that empowering young Nigerians is both a strategic priority and a personal conviction.

Tinubu paid tribute to the ingenuity and global influence of Nigerian youth, noting that they continue to set remarkable standards in innovation, civic leadership, and the creative industries. He stressed that his administration’s economic reforms are deliberately designed to remove bureaucratic and financial obstacles that hinder young people from achieving their ambitions.

He announced renewed government investment across key sectors technology, agriculture, manufacturing, the creative economy, and green energy describing the interventions as part of a comprehensive empowerment ecosystem aimed at enabling young innovators to thrive.

Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, echoed the President’s stance, highlighting Nigeria’s unique demographic advantage, with more than 65 percent of the population under 30.

He said programmes like the NIYA Startup Scheme and NIYA Gigs were crafted to equip young Nigerians with digital skills, mentorship, entrepreneurship support, and practical training needed to excel in the modern economy.

“These programs are not theories they are real avenues for young Nigerians to earn, innovate, and contribute meaningfully,” Olawande noted, adding that recent reforms have opened access to opportunities previously constrained by systemic bottlenecks.

In his goodwill message, Minister of Finance Wale Edun affirmed that the new economic landscape rewards competence and creativity rather than connections.

He said long-standing barriers that frustrated youth entrepreneurship have been dismantled, clearing the way for a vibrant new generation of business leaders and innovators.

The event marked another bold step by the Federal Government toward democratizing opportunity and building a future driven by the talent, resilience, and ambition of Nigeria’s youth.

RMAFC Reaffirms That Combating Corruption Is a Collective Responsibility

Maryam Aminu

The Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, OFR, has emphasised that the fight against corruption cannot be left to a single institution but requires a united commitment from all levels of governance.

Dr. Shehu made the remarks on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, during a one-day sensitisation programme organised by the Commission’s Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) in collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). The event was held at the RMAFC headquarters in Abuja.

Represented by the Secretary to the Commission, Nwaze Joseph Okechukwu, the Chairman noted that RMAFC occupies a critical position in Nigeria’s fiscal framework. He stated that as the body constitutionally mandated to monitor revenue accruals and disbursement from the Federation Account, maintaining ethical standards is essential to safeguarding public resources.

“Corruption in any form undermines development, distorts fiscal planning, erodes public trust, and ultimately denies citizens the economic and social benefits that government revenues are designed to provide,” he said.

Dr. Shehu applauded the participation of key stakeholders committed to strengthening national transparency and accountability systems. He added that the programme provides an opportunity to deepen ethical awareness, identify emerging risks, and reinforce the culture of integrity within public service.

L-R Secretary to the Commission Nwaze Okechukwu and Chairman ACTU, Mr. Idris Musa Sariki at the event.

In his opening remarks, the ACTU Chairman, Idris Musa Sariki, expressed appreciation to the ICPC for its continuous collaboration in promoting transparency and accountability across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). He noted that ACTU’s establishment within RMAFC underscores the Commission’s dedication to its core values of integrity, professionalism, and patriotism.

Sariki stressed that anti-corruption efforts thrive not only on frameworks and institutional policies but also on the commitment of staff and management to uphold ethical principles in their daily duties. “Today’s programme provides an important opportunity for staff to understand corruption risks, preventive measures, and their responsibilities as public officers,” he said.

Also speaking, the Director of Servicom, Mr. Olaye Osayemen, urged participants to adhere strictly to civil service financial regulations and apply the lessons from the sensitisation programme in their work.

The programme featured two presentations by ICPC officials: “Definition of Corruption” by Ozor Ijeomah and “Ethical Decision-Making in Government Business” by Dr. Anike Adesina.

FRC, ICPC Forge Landmark Anti-Corruption Alliance on International Anti-Corruption Day

Maryam Aminu

In a major boost to Nigeria’s anti-corruption drive, the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen transparency and accountability in public finance management.

The pact, signed on International Anti-Corruption Day, was described as historic and timely by the Executive Chairman of FRC, Mr. Victor Muruako, and the Executive Chairman of ICPC, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN. Both leaders emphasized that the collaboration reflects a renewed commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s resources and intensifying the fight against corruption.

Speaking at the ceremony, the two chairmen highlighted the significance of the agreement, noting that it will enhance fiscal discipline, deepen institutional synergy, and ensure more coordinated responses to financial crimes and public sector abuses.

Under the MoU, both agencies will collaborate on capacity building, joint investigations, information sharing, and asset recovery. The ICPC’s Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria (ACAN) will offer specialized training to FRC personnel in areas such as forensic investigation, financial crime detection, digital evidence recovery, and prosecution techniques. In return, both bodies will exchange experts for workshops and public enlightenment initiatives.

The agreement also empowers both institutions to launch joint investigations and coordinated enforcement operations where cases fall under the mandates of the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 and the ICPC Act 2000. It further establishes a framework for mutual support in tracing, freezing, confiscating, and recovering stolen public funds.

The MoU guarantees structured and confidential information sharing between both agencies while maintaining strict ethical standards and compliance with relevant laws.

According to both parties, the partnership is expected to dismantle institutional barriers that often hinder effective enforcement, thereby strengthening Nigeria’s anti-corruption architecture.

The document, which may be terminated with a 30-day notice by either party, marks a renewed phase of cooperation between the two integrity institutions.

Officials present at the signing included senior directors and department heads from both agencies.

Representing the FRC were Barr. Charles Chukwuemeka Abana (Director, Legal, Investigation and Enforcement), Bede Ogueri Anyanwu (Deputy Director, Strategic Communications), Mr. Bello Gulmare (Deputy Director, Monitoring and Evaluation), and Mr. Ugo Chinemerem Uzoma (Deputy Director, Protocol and SERVICOM).

From the ICPC were Sir Clifford Okwudiri Oparandu, Mr. Henry Emore (Director of Legal), Mr. Shehu Yahaya, FSC (Director, Policy and Standards), Mr. Ibrahim Garba Kajaya (Head, Procurement), Mr. Ambrose Songo, FCAI (Head, Audit), Mr. Sunday Ibrahim (Representative of the Director of Finance and Administration), Mr. Bashir Dagoro, and Mrs. Chinyere Emeoha (Deputy Director, Human Resources).

The ceremony ended with both chairmen reaffirming their resolve to advance transparency, accountability, and sustainable development in line with Nigeria’s Constitution and existing anti-corruption laws.

Nigeria, Saudi Arabia Sign Defence Cooperation MoU to Boost Military Partnership

Emmanuel Daudu

The Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening defence and military cooperation between both nations.

The agreement was formalised on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, by authorised representatives of the two governments. Nigeria was represented by the Minister of State for Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, while Saudi Arabia’s Assistant Minister of Defence for Executive Affairs, Dr. Khaled H. Al-Biyari, signed on behalf of the Kingdom.

Describing the development as a “significant milestone,” Dr. Matawalle said the MoU had been under consideration for some time, adding that its conclusion signals a major step forward for Nigeria’s defence architecture.

“It has been on the drawing board for some time, and its conclusion will strengthen Nigeria’s defence architecture and enhance the capacity of our armed forces,” he stated.

Under the terms of the agreement, the MoU will run for an initial period of five years, with provisions for review and renewal. Either party may also terminate the agreement by issuing a three-month written notice through diplomatic channels.

The cooperation framework covers multiple areas, including military training, joint exercises, intelligence exchange, technical assistance, logistics support, and other mutually agreed activities.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the partnership is expected to deliver substantial benefits to Nigeria, particularly in the areas of capacity building, operational readiness and counter-terrorism. It will provide expanded opportunities for professional military education, specialist courses and joint training to enhance the skills of Nigerian military personnel.

The MoU will also support improved interoperability among Nigeria’s armed forces through shared doctrine and joint operations, while strengthening ongoing efforts against terrorism, insurgency and organised crime through enhanced intelligence collaboration.

The Ministry described the agreement as a strategic tool that aligns with Nigeria’s long-term goals for defence modernization, national security and regional stability.

OPEN LETTER: Okwuohia Community Appeals to Obowu LGA Chairman Over Neglected Okwuohia-Onuiyoaja-Umulogho Road

Editor’s Note: This is an open letter written by Ichie Bede Ogueri Anyanwu (The Mayor of Abuja), Nnanyereugo 1 of Okwuohia. The views expressed are those of the author.

An Open Letter to Hon. Barr. Obioma Ehirim, JP, Executive Chairman, Obowu Local Government Area, Imo State – Monday, 8 December 2025

Dear Sir,

On behalf of the Okwuohia Autonomous Community, I respectfully draw your attention to the deplorable state of the Okwuohia-Onuiyoaja-Umulogho Road, which has remained neglected for several years.

As you may recall, this vital access road received temporary attention about four years ago when members of the Onugotu Okwuohia Foundation rehabilitated it to enable movement during the Christmas season. Unfortunately, since that intervention, no further action has been taken to maintain or improve the road.

This route serves as the shortest and most direct link for the people of Okwuohia to the Obowu Local Government Headquarters at Otoko. It also connects Okwuohia and Umulogho communities, whose residents depend heavily on the adjoining farmlands for their livelihoods. Its current condition therefore poses serious hardship to commuters, farmers, and the entire community.

Sir, we acknowledge your outstanding performance as a young, vibrant, and development-driven leader. In that spirit, we earnestly appeal that you give priority attention to the Okwuohia-Onuiyoaja-Umulogho Road during the forthcoming village grading exercise. Beyond grading, we also hope the Local Government Council will consider a more permanent and lasting solution to the road’s recurring challenges.

We recall that during his tenure, Hon. Dr. Raymond Emerenini ensured this same road was made motorable. We are confident that under your capable leadership, this important access route can once again receive the attention it deserves.

Thank you, Sir, for your anticipated favourable action.

Yours faithfully,
Ichie Bede Ogueri Anyanwu
(The Mayor of Abuja)
Nnanyereugo 1 of Okwuohia

New Defence Minister Christopher Musa (Rtd) Assumes Office, Vows to Strengthen Nigeria’s Security Architecture

Emmanuel Daudu

Barely 24 hours after his swearing-in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the newly appointed Minister of Defence, Major General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), officially assumed duty on Thursday at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.

Speaking during the brief handover ceremony, Musa assured Nigerians that the Defence Ministry under his leadership will fully take its rightful place in strengthening national security. He emphasized that achieving lasting security requires joint effort and collective responsibility.

“Security is everybody’s business. It is that synergy we will build and work on. I assure you that within the shortest possible time Nigerians will see results,” he said.

The Minister stressed the urgency of safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity through strategic coordination, noting that the Ministry must bridge any gaps between policy formulation and implementation.

“This Ministry will serve as a powerhouse of strategic direction and relentless accountability,” he added. Musa also pledged unwavering support for troops across the country, praising their sacrifices in ensuring Nigerians live and sleep in peace.

He further expressed readiness to work closely with the Service Chiefs, reiterating that enhanced cooperation will elevate the Armed Forces to greater heights. Addressing the civil service cadre, he described the Permanent Secretary and staff as the “institutional memory and backbone” of the Ministry. He highlighted the need for improved training, modern equipment procurement, technology adoption, and stronger partnerships with security agencies and international allies.

The Defence Minister expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him, promising to prioritise the welfare of military personnel and advance ongoing defence reforms.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, described Musa’s assumption of office as a significant moment for Nigeria’s defence sector. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the Minister’s leadership with professionalism, discipline, and integrity.

Pheelangwa noted that Musa’s appointment reflects the nation’s trust in his expertise and leadership, coming at a time when Nigeria faces complex security challenges. He expressed optimism that the Minister’s vast experience as both a military and civilian leader will strengthen security collaboration and help chart a path toward lasting peace.

The ceremony was attended by Service Chiefs, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Directors, and senior officials of the Ministry.

Unyogba Kpai Ufedo Igala Nyanya Launches Constitution, Reaffirms Commitment to Unity

Maryam Aminu

The Unyogba Kpai Ufedo Igala Nyanya community on Saturday, 6th December 2025, officially launched its constitution during an end-of-year gathering that brought together elders, members and guests in Nyanya, Abuja.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the association, Musa Edime, reflected on the group’s remarkable growth since its establishment just a year ago. He noted that the association began with only seven members but has continued to expand steadily, strengthening its presence and impact within the community. Edime also announced that beginning next year, every member will be required to register alongside their spouses to further deepen participation and collective involvement.

He described the association as a bond built on unity, explaining that members consistently support one another in times of need, including during sickness, naming ceremonies, weddings and other important life events.

Mustapha Salifu, Chairman of the Occasion

Also addressing the gathering, the Chairman of the occasion, Mustapha Salifu Attah, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to preside over the historic launch. In his remarks, he commended the members for their commitment to documenting and strengthening their structure through a formal constitution.

Salifu Attah described the day as an important milestone for the group, saying the constitution would serve as a guide to promote growth, harmony and shared understanding. He noted that the theme of the event, Udama Chukpahu Unity Is Our Strength, reflects the core values of the Igala people and underscores the importance of collective progress.

He praised the organisers for their dedication in preparing the constitution and putting the event together, urging members to continue promoting peace, mutual support and the cultural heritage of the Igala community.

The ceremony concluded with celebrations as members expressed optimism for a more organised and united association in the years ahead.

FMHAPR Director of Information Rhoda Ishaku Iliya Bows Out After Decades of Meritorious Service

Emmanuel Daudu

The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction has honoured its Director of Information and Public Relations, Mrs. Rhoda Ishaku Iliya, who officially retired yesterday after a distinguished and impactful career in the civil service.

At a sent-forth ceremony held in her honour, Mrs. Iliya reflected on her journey in civil service, describing it as one built on passion, commitment, and a deep sense of responsibility. She shared heartfelt words of encouragement for younger professionals, urging them to prioritise excellence and integrity over financial gain.

“It’s not all about the money. Money should not come first. Hard work and dedication will attract money to you,” she said.

Colleagues and staff of the ministry took turns to extol her leadership and character, praising her hard work, resilience, elegance, and unwavering professionalism. Many described her as a role model whose contributions significantly shaped the ministry’s public communication structure.

The Permanent Secretary, OluBunmi Olusanya, also delivered a glowing tribute. Despite having known her for only a short period, he commended Mrs. Iliya’s humility, work ethic, and dedication to service.

He assured the retiree that the doors of the ministry would remain open to her, acknowledging the positive legacy she leaves behind.

Dubai Intl. Conference: UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu invited as Keynote Speaker

According to the letter that was written to The First African UNESCO Laureate Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu as stated below

Dear Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu Bashiru Aremu,
Greetings from ISTASET-2026!

On Behalf of InovSciTech, we are Pleased to invite you as an Organizing Committee Member and Keynote Speaker for the “9th International Conference on Applied Science, Engineering and Technology (ISTASET-2026), which will be held on October 15-16, 2026, in Dubai, UAE.

We feel delighted with your achievements in “Applied Science, Engineering and Technology” as this colloquium will foster interactive sessions amongst field experts, plenary sessions, keynotes sessions through eminent speech-makers, poster presentations by young researchers, workshop by renowned orators, and symposia.

To know more about Conference https://inovscitechconferences.com/2026/dubai/appsciengtech/

We sincerely hope that you will honor us by accepting our invitation to join us at Dubai, UAE.

Thanks & Regards
Noel Evans
ISTASET-2026
Conference Manager

Prof. Aremu is expected to make valuable contributions across all scientific sessions, networking events, and hospitality gatherings.

Who Is Prof. Sir Bashiru Aremu?
A distinguished Nigerian scholar in computer science and information technology, Prof. Aremu has garnered international acclaim, notably as the First African UNESCO Laureate, a distinction formally recognised by UNESCO’s Central & South America Centre (Reg. Arg. 22/LT‑19; ISBN 978‑1571‑7412‑6). His accolades include the Global Golden Medaland Certificate from UNESCO for outstanding achievements in education, creativity, and intellectual innovation

Founding Member Board of Trustees and Pioneer Dean Faculty of Science and Computing of Minaret University Ikirun Nigeria
Chairman, Board of Trustees, Kings & Queens Medical University College, Ghana

Chairman, Accreditation Panels at Nigerian universities

Chairman, World Accreditation Commission, USA (affiliate of UNESCO)

Chief Patron, Unity of Nations Action for Climate Change Council (UNACCC)

Founding Trustee and Professor at Minaret University, Ikirun, Nigeria

Prof. Aremu continues to champion global education quality and intellectual partnerships across multiple continents.

Reaction and Outlook
Upon receiving the invitation, Prof. Aremu conveyed his deepest gratitude to the organisers and pledged to uphold his commitment to advancing global higher education:

“I deeply appreciate this recognition and the opportunity to engage with researchers and thought leaders worldwide. I remain dedicated to promoting quality assurance and international collaboration in education and scientific research

Nigerian Teen Breaks Record in $400,000 Global Science Challenge

Maryam Aminu

A Nigerian teenager, Daniel Adeluyi, has achieved a historic milestone by reaching the semi-finals of the 2025 Breakthrough Junior Challenge, a globally renowned science competition for young innovators. Daniel is the first Nigerian to reach this stage in the competition’s 11-year history, standing out among thousands of entries from around the world.

The 16-year-old impressed judges with a creative two-minute video explaining the concept of wormholes in a clear and engaging manner. He said the topic reflects his belief in pushing boundaries and exploring ideas that once seemed impossible, adding that his interest in physics, space, and storytelling made the challenge a perfect fit.

The competition offers prizes worth $400,000, including a $250,000 university scholarship for the winner, $50,000 for the teacher, and a $100,000 high-tech science laboratory for the school. Daniel is now seeking public support as audience engagement will play a key role in determining which semi-finalist advances to the final round.

Beyond academics, Daniel is known for his leadership and creativity. He previously served as Assistant Head Boy at Brickhall School, Abuja, where he earned the Chairman’s Award for Academic Excellence. He captains his estate’s U18 football team, plays basketball, and taught himself to play the keyboard, composing several original pieces.

He also founded BRAINS (Building Real-world Artificial Intelligence and Next-generation Skills), a youth initiative that exposes children to artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. Through the programme, he hopes to inspire confidence and curiosity in younger learners.

Daniel credits his communication abilities to years of watching educational documentaries and reading scientific classics, including Stephen Hawking’s A Brief History of Time. Since 2021, he has volunteered in the media unit of his church, The Capital Assembly, gaining valuable experience in storytelling and content creation skills that helped shape his acclaimed competition video.

As voting begins, Daniel is urging Nigerians across the world to support him by liking his video on the Breakthrough Prize YouTube and Facebook pages, noting that the entry with the highest combined engagement is guaranteed a place in the finals.

Voting links:
YouTube: https://youtu.be/DysdmiVLAug?si=TuQJYGyN5xEvFdEM
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1MCbmBZscZ/