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FG Launches Bold Push to Tackle Youth Poverty, Unemployment Through YEIDEP

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has stepped up efforts to tackle youth poverty, unemployment, and insecurity with the rollout of the Youth Economic Intervention and Deregulation Program (YEIDEP) a national mission designed to empower young Nigerians through enterprise and innovation.

Speaking at the YEIDEP Stakeholders Retreat, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, said the programme is more than just another government initiative.

“YEIDEP is a national mission essential to Nigeria’s peace, stability, and prosperity,” he stressed, urging stakeholders to collaborate, define clear roles, set measurable timelines, and ensure accountability in the programme’s rollout.

The Minister, represented by his Chief of Staff, Muhammed Abdullahi, emphasized that YEIDEP’s strength lies in creating sustainable economic opportunities, particularly through agriculture and its value chains, to address rising unemployment and disillusionment among Nigerian youth.

A cross-section of key stakeholders present at the YEIDEP Implementation Stakeholders’ Retreat.

On the financial side, the Ministry’s Director of Finance and Accounts, Warrens Bekearadebo Augusta, revealed that 9 out of 20 invited banks have officially joined YEIDEP, opening accounts, registering beneficiaries, and driving financial operations.

She added that 3–4 more banks are expected to sign on soon.

So far, over 8,000 verified young Nigerians have been enrolled as first-tranche beneficiaries. To ensure efficiency, banks are being grouped into clusters with strict monitoring and accountability measures in place.

YEIDEP Coordinator, Comrade Kennedy Iyere, described the programme as a “necessary revolution” for Nigeria’s survival. Drawing from his global experience across 77 nations, he said Nigeria’s challenges stem not from a lack of resources but from weak leadership in the past.

“YEIDEP is about equipping young Nigerians with skills, resources, and opportunities to thrive,” Iyere said. “This is how we will build resilience, strengthen enterprise, and secure Nigeria’s future.”

With stakeholders, financial institutions, and thousands of young Nigerians already onboard, YEIDEP is shaping up to be one of the Federal Government’s most ambitious youth empowerment initiatives yet.

Global Alliance for Peace and Unity Honours Women Affairs Minister for Championing Women Empowerment

By Adejoh Bilkisu

The Global Alliance for Peace and Unity (GAPU) has applauded the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Dr. Iman Suleiman Ibrahim, for her unwavering dedication to advancing women’s empowerment and protecting vulnerable groups in Nigeria.

This recognition came during a courtesy visit by GAPU’s leadership team, led by its National President, Hon. Solomon Pevkyaa, to the Minister’s office in Abuja. The engagement formed part of the Alliance’s ongoing National Peace Awareness Campaign Against Violence on Women, an initiative designed to promote peace, inclusivity, and gender protection across the country.

Hon. Pevkyaa, while addressing the Minister, described her leadership style as “visionary and transformative,” stressing that the empowerment programmes she has championed are not only impactful but have also raised the profile of the ministry to global standards.

He dismissed criticisms against her stewardship as unfounded, insisting that Dr. Ibrahim has consistently introduced bold and innovative initiatives that strengthen women’s participation in national development.

“Our partnership with the Ministry of Women Affairs is critical to enhancing peace and security in Nigeria. Dr. Ibrahim has demonstrated exemplary leadership, and GAPU is proud to stand with her in building a society where women are safe, empowered, and actively contributing to unity,” Pevkyaa said.

In recognition of her contributions, the Alliance conferred on the Minister the prestigious award of ‘Amazon of Peace, Unity and Women Development in Nigeria.

Responding, Dr. Ibrahim expressed gratitude to the delegation and reiterated her ministry’s commitment to women-focused policies and interventions.

She highlighted some of the ministry’s flagship projects, including entrepreneurship support for women, vocational training for young girls, and sustained advocacy against gender-based violence.

“True peace and national progress cannot be achieved without the involvement of women. Our priority is to continue creating opportunities that allow women to thrive and play central roles in building the future of our country,” she affirmed.

The visit ended with both parties pledging deeper collaboration in promoting peace, strengthening women’s voices, and addressing the scourge of gender-based violence nationwide.

Pakistan High Commission in Nigeria Marks Independence and Defence Day

Maryam Aminu

The High Commission of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Nigeria has commemorated Pakistan’s Independence Day and Defence Day with a reception that highlighted the country’s resilience, achievements, and long-standing ties with Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, the High Commissioner of Pakistan, Major General Sohail Ahmad Khan expressed pride in his country’s journey since 1947, noting its progress as a reliable global partner in peace, security, and development.

“Pakistan has risen from humble beginnings to become a beacon of resilience, progress, and global stature,” the envoy stated.

He highlighted Pakistan’s contributions to international peace, including the deployment of more than 200,000 troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions since 1960, as well as its active role in counter-terrorism and advocacy for justice in regions such as Kashmir and Palestine.

The High Commissioner also underscored Pakistan’s economic and agricultural strengths, noting that the country ranks among the world’s top producers of cotton, rice, sugarcane, wheat, mangoes, dates, and oranges.

He added that Pakistan remains a major global supplier of sports goods while also being home to natural wonders such as K2, the world’s second-highest peak.

Turning to national security, he paid tribute to Pakistan’s armed forces, ranked 12th globally in the 2025 Global Firepower Index.

He lauded their sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, where more than 80,000 lives have been lost, and pointed to the recent success of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos in May 2025 as evidence of Pakistan’s military resilience.

On bilateral relations, the envoy praised the decades-long partnership between Pakistan and Nigeria, describing it as one built on “brotherhood, trust, and strategic cooperation.”

He noted that the relationship continues to expand across trade, economic development, and defence.

The event was attended by senior Nigerian government officials, members of the diplomatic community, defence attaches, and officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The High Commissioner reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace, innovation, and prosperity, declaring: “Together, we are unbreakable. Pakistan Armed Forces Zindabad! Pakistan-Nigeria Relations Zindabad! Pakistan Painda Baad!”

UNESCO Laureate Congratulates Professor Bayode Isaiah Popoola As Pioneer VC, Adeyemi Federal University of Education Ondo

The First UNESCO Laureate, and Africa Chairman Board of Trustees of Unity of Nations Actions for Climate Change Council (UNACCC) an official partner of United Nations and other organizations world wide Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu has congratulated Bayode Isaiah Popoola As Pioneer VC, Adeyemi Federal University of Education Ondo

Ondo State Nigeria as he prays for Professor Bayode Isaiah Popoola’s future success on his new appointment.

The Governing Council of Adeyemi Federal University of Education Ondo, has approved the appointment of Professor Bayode Isaiah Popoola as the first substantive Vice Chancellor of the institution.
Popoola is a Professor of Education (Guidance and Counselling) from the Department of Educational Foundations and Counselling, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Osun State.
Professor Popoola, born 62 years ago, hails from Ikere Ekiti in Ekiti State and holds a Bachelor of Education Degree in English/Education from Ondo State University Ado-Ekiti now Ekiti State University in 1987; M.A. Education (Guidance and Counseling) and PhD (Guidance and Counselling) degrees of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife in 1995 and 2003 respectively.
Popoola, a seasoned academic, served the Obafemi Awolowo University as Head, Department of Educational Foundations and Counselling, Deputy Provost of the Postgraduate College, and Dean of the Faculty of Education, among other academic and administrative leadership positions.
Besides serving in various capacities within the four walls of the universities, he also served some government and non-governmental agencies, such as the National Examination Council as a member of the School Accreditation Team from 2007 to 2009. He was a research consultant to UNICEF, the International Organisation for Migration, the Federal Ministry of Education School Unit, and a member, Governing Council of the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria. He is an External Examiner and Assessor to many universities in Nigeria and overseas.
Professor Popoola has published over 67 works in reputable local and international journals; attended 16 international conferences, 34 local conferences, seminars, and workshops, and supervised over 27 postgraduate thesis.
The new Vice Chancellor is a member of various professional bodies such as the Counselling Association of Nigeria, Association of Professional Counsellors in Nigeria, Association of Educational Researchers and Evaluators of Nigeria, Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria, Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists in Africa, and the American Psychological Association.
Professor Popoola is married to Dr. (Mrs.) Temilola Popoola, and the marriage is blessed with four children.

Prof Sir Bashiru Aremu is a trailblazing Nigerian academic born in Iwo, Osun State. He is the first African UNESCO Laureate, recognized for contributions to global education. Aremu serves as Vice-Chancellor of Crown University International Chartered Inc. and holds leadership positions in international institutions, specializing in biometric technology and computer science.

From Saving Bagega to Shaping Africa: Hamzat Lawal Marks 13 Years of Impact, Announces New Leadership at CODE

Maryam Aminu

Thirteen years ago, a young activist stood in a small Abuja room with nothing but an idea and an unyielding resolve to save lives. That idea the Save Bagega campaign, which exposed a deadly lead poisoning crisis in Zamfara State not only forced government action but also gave birth to Connected Development (CODE), now Africa’s leading citizen-led accountability organisation.

In a press conference on Monday in Abuja, the activist, Hamzat Lawal, marked CODE’s 13th anniversary with a reflection on a movement that has grown from one man’s cry for justice into a continental force spanning 12 African countries and more than 3,000 communities.

“Transparency is not a privilege; it is a right,” Lawal declared, recalling CODE’s battles against resistance, intimidation, and entrenched corruption. “We have shown that when citizens unite, they can change the course of history.”

Under his leadership, CODE and its flagship initiative, Follow The Money (FTM), have tracked over ₦400 billion in budgeted funds, ensuring schools, hospitals, and water projects reach marginalized communities. The organisation has spearheaded major reforms, from championing the Not Too Young To Run movement to launching the COVID-19 Transparency and Accountability Project (CTAP), which tracked pandemic spending across 12 countries.

L-R Mukhtar Modibbo Halilu, Secretary General – Follow The Money International Ijeoma Oforka, Chief Operating Officer, Hamzat Lawal – Founder, Connected Development (CODE) and Follow The Money, Hyeladzira Mshelia, Head of Office/Acting CEO and Kunle Babs, Global Consultant, Advocacy and Communications

The organisation’s work in the Niger Delta and collaborations on illicit financial flows have also amplified citizen voices on environmental justice and corruption beyond Nigeria’s borders. These efforts have earned CODE global recognition, including the ONE Africa Award, the UN SDG Mobilizer Award, and the Council of Europe Democracy Award.

Announcing a new chapter, Lawal revealed he has been awarded a Chevening Scholarship to pursue a Master’s degree in Governance, Development, and Public Policy at the University of Sussex, UK. As he temporarily steps aside, he named an Acting CEO for CODE and a Secretary General for Follow The Money International to sustain the organisation’s momentum.

Hyeladzira Mshelia, Head of Office/Acting CEO

Mukhtar Modibbo Halilu Secretary General Follow The Money International

“These appointments represent continuity and renewal. CODE and Follow The Money are bigger than any one person,” Lawal said, assuring that the movement will expand to more countries, adopt new technologies for citizen oversight, and build a generation of young leaders committed to accountability.

“What started as a desperate plea to save Bagega has become a continental movement that saves lives, protects rights, and empowers voices,” he said. “This is the story of CODE, and we are only just beginning.”

Oil Price Recommendation for MTEF/DSP 2026-2028

Maryam Aminu

An Abuja-based economist, Chris Uwadoka, has called on the Federal Government to adopt a more robust, model-based approach to oil price forecasting in preparing the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and Fiscal Strategy Paper (FSP) for 2026–2028.

Uwadoka, in an analysis of Nigeria’s budget benchmarks and actual oil prices between 2011 and 2024, noted that the country’s projections have consistently underestimated global crude oil prices, exposing the economy to fiscal imbalances.

According to him, Nigeria’s oil price benchmarks were set conservatively in 12 out of 14 years reviewed, with actual prices exceeding projections by an average of $19.7 per barrel, or 34 percent. He added that while this conservatism created buffers, it also led to distortions in revenue planning.

“Overestimation in years of sharp downturns, such as 2015 and 2020, triggered deficits and borrowing, while underestimation in boom years resulted in sudden surpluses that disrupted fiscal discipline,” he explained.

Uwadoka stressed that Nigeria’s reliance on simple historical averaging and consultations with agencies such as NNPC and international bodies was no longer sufficient to manage volatility in the global oil market.

He recommended that the Federal Government adopt a forecast combination approach similar to that used by the European Central Bank, blending futures prices, risk-adjusted futures, Bayesian Vector Autoregression (BVAR), and Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium (DSGE) models.

“This method reduces forecast errors by up to 30 percent, minimizes bias, and provides greater stability for medium-term planning,” he said, adding that local factors such as insecurity in the Niger Delta and oil theft should also be integrated into the models.

Using time series data, Uwadoka projected that the Federal Government may set conservative benchmarks of $70–75 per barrel for 2025, $68–73 for 2026, and $65–70 for 2027, aligning with its historical caution. However, he maintained that a model-based system could push forecasts closer to $75 and above, improving revenue accuracy.

Nigeria’s economy relies on crude oil for over 80 percent of export earnings and a large share of government revenue. The oil price benchmark remains a critical factor in the nation’s budgeting process, as enshrined in the Fiscal Responsibility Act.

Farila Sulaiman Ibrahim appointed Acting Country Representative- Nigeria as Kolawole Adeneken relieved

The World Sustainable Development Goals Organization-Nigeria (WSDGsO) is proud to announce the appointment of a Fulani Kano born, Her Excellency Farila Sulaiman Ibrahim as the Acting Country Representative for Nigeria.

The appointment comes following the relief of H.E. Engr. Kolawole Rasheed Adenekan from the position of the Nigeria country representative. The organisation is confident that Her Excellency Farila Ibrahim will bring exemplary leadership, extensive experience, and a fresh perspective that is crucial for advancing the sustainable development goals in Nigeria.

H.E. Farila Sulaiman Ibrahim is a Public Health graduate from the Maryam Abacha American University of Niger, the first English-speaking university in the Republic of Niger.

The distinguished figure in the field of sustainable development, until her appointment was the Deputy Country Representative of the organization with years of experience in various capacities related to environmental governance, social justice, community development while she has been a medical practitioner for a decade.

Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to addressing issues that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set forth by the United Nations (UN). As a passionate advocate for sustainable practices, H.E. Farila has worked with multiple non-governmental organisations, government agencies, and international bodies, holding several key positions that align with her expertise.

The decision to relieve Engr. Kolawole Rasheed Adenekan from his role was not taken lightly. Engr. Adenekan has contributed significantly while he was the country representative at the WSDGsO, steering several crucial projects and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable practices in Nigeria.

However, it is the organisation’s belief that a change in leadership is necessary at this pivotal moment when Nigeria is facing increasing challenges related to climate change, urban development, and socio-economic inequalities.

H.E. Farila’s appointment heralds a new chapter in addressing these challenges. She is well-equipped to lead the WSDGsO’s initiatives in Nigeria, ensuring that they align effectively with national priorities and global sustainability agendas. Her strategic vision is seen as pivotal in galvanising the efforts of stakeholders across sectors to collaborate on implementing innovative solutions that will benefit the Nigerian populace.

According to the letter of appointment dated 20th of August, 2025, signed by the African Continental Governor, H.E. Alh. Yahya Muhammad Guregi, the organization appreciated Engr. Kolawole Rasheed Adenekan for a wonderful humanitarian activities piloted within the organization in his capacity as the country representative and wished him well in his future endeavors.

“To the Acting Country Representative, H.E Farila Sulaiman Ibrahim, congratulations to you. we are optimistic you will do more than the organization’s expectations. Congratulations once more”.

Korede Komaiya: Medically I Was Informed, I Would Not Live Beyond The Age Of 35

The senior pastor and founder of the Master’s Place International Church, Pastor Korede Komaiya has revealed that medical professionals once told him that he would not live beyond the age of 35.

The 54-year-old disclosed this in an Instagram post on Wednesday while sharing photos ahead of his 55th birthday.

“My gratitude knows no bounds. I saw bends that were like ends until God turned things around. I have escaped death over and over again. I was told medically that I wouldn’t live to be 35 years old, and now I’m just a few days away from 55,” he wrote.

He added that his survival is a testimony of divine mercy.

“I am a product of mercy. God always comes through for me, no matter the battle or my mistakes. No hatred, no betrayal, no siege of the wicked, and no assault of the evil ones has been able to stop my destiny,” he said. The cleric also reflected on his work in ministry.

“Today, God has made me a father to orphans, a father to orphans, a succour to widows, an eye to the blind, hope to the hopeless, and light to those in darkness. Only God deserves all the glory. Help me thank God! Gratitude mode activated,” he added.

Pastor Korede Komaiya founded, The Master’s Place International Church in Warri, Delta State, where he pastors alongside his wife, Esther.

The church was established in 2007.

Youth Ministry, National Defence College Launch Bold Leadership Drive for Nigerian Youth

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has teamed up with the National Defence College to chart a new course for youth leadership in Nigeria, unveiling a high-level conference aimed at equipping young Nigerians with the values, skills, and resilience needed to lead the nation into the future.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, declared the event open, describing it as “a bold step towards shaping the leadership architecture of our beloved country.” With youths making up over 70% of Nigeria’s population, the President stressed that the future of the nation already rests in their hands.

“The Nigeria we desire tomorrow depends on the leadership we build today,” Tinubu affirmed, while urging young participants to embrace values-based leadership and actively engage in tackling pressing global challenges such as cybersecurity, climate change, food security, and innovation.

First from left is Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande representing President Bola Tinubu, at Middle is Rear Admiral Jo Okosun, NDC Commandant, right is Zamfara State Governor, Mallam Dauda Lawal at the Conference in Abuja

The Minister of Youth Development, through his Chief of Staff, Mallam Abdullahi Mohamed, emphasized that Nigeria’s true wealth lies not in oil or gas but in the “vibrant energy and potential of our youth.”

He described the partnership with the National Defence College as both timely and vital in preparing a generation of disciplined, creative, and courageous leaders.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, represented by Hon. Mohammed Jalo, reaffirmed parliament’s commitment to youth empowerment, while the Commandant of the National Defence College, Rear Admiral Jo Okosun, underscored that “the strength of a country lies in its youth, and by investing in them, the future of Nigeria is safe in their hands.”

The conference has drawn young leaders, policymakers, and experts from across the country, offering a platform to exchange ideas, build networks, and craft strategies to secure Nigeria’s future through empowered youth leadership.

FRC, NIPSS Applaud MDAs at Fiscal Transparency Training, Push for Stronger Compliance

Maryam Aminu

The Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), in partnership with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, and ThinkBig Consulting Limited, has wrapped up a high-level training program aimed at strengthening fiscal discipline, transparency, and accountability among Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

The week-long programme, themed “Strategies for Increased Fiscal Efficiency, Enhanced Government Revenue and Plugging Leakages in Nigerian Financial System,” brought together participants from across MDAs to explore reforms for improved financial management.

Speaking at the closing session, FRC Chairman, Victor Muruako, Esq., represented by his Special Adviser, Dr. Chris Uwadoka, commended the quality of engagement during the training, describing it as “high-impact and insightful.”

He urged MDAs to begin early preparations for annual audited financial statements and adhere strictly to the Commission’s remittance templates for Operating Surplus, stressing the need to entrench a culture of financial prudence.

Dr. Solomon Titus Gushibet, Senior Fellow and Operating Officer at the Centre for Financial Economics, NIPSS, who coordinated the training, said participants displayed exemplary commitment.

He confirmed that all attendees met the requirements for certification, noting that the nine thematic areas covered will aid reforms in public finance management.

Delivering the closing remarks on behalf of the NIPSS Director-General, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, Prof. Jane Omotayo Aane underscored the importance of strengthening public procurement processes. She decried cases of MDAs failing to meet contractual obligations, which she described as “an abuse of office,” and called on the FRC to step up oversight in procurement matters.

She assured participants of NIPSS’s continued partnership in building institutional reforms while urging them to implement the knowledge gained.

The training, observers noted, represents a critical step in advancing Nigeria’s fiscal responsibility framework, particularly at a time when the country is grappling with economic challenges.