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DUNAMIS: Do Not Take The Church, Body Of Christ For Granted – Dr Enenche

The Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre (DIGC), Dr. Paul Enenche, has cautioned against statements capable of provoking religious tension in Nigeria, insisting that, the church and body of Christ should not be taken for granted, asserting, Christianity is not inferior or second to any religion in Nigeria.

Enenche made the remarks during a Sunday service while reacting to comments attributed to Islamic cleric Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, who reportedly described Nigeria as a Muslim nation belonging to Muslims.

Speaking to the congregation, the cleric maintained that Christianity is neither subordinate nor secondary to any religion in Nigeria, stressing that Christians remain a significant part of the nation’s developmental, religious and social fabric.

“Christianity is not secondary at all, and no religious fanatic, political group, or individual will ever make Christianity secondary to any religion in Nigeria,” Enenche said.

He emphasized that Christians are present in large numbers across the country, even in states such as Sokoto, Yobe, and Borno-Maiduguri, noting that the Christian faith has a strong presence in every region and part of Nigeria.

According to him, no group should underestimate the influence, contribution, and numerical strength of Christians in the nation.

“Nobody should take the Body of Christ and the Church for granted in this nation,” he said, adding that the Church’s commitment to peace and restraint should not be mistaken for weakness.

“we have millions of people in this nation and across the world, who have subscribed to the faith of Jesus Christ, don’t take christians for a ride or granted at all, we have been quiet and calm for a long time, and it’s not act of cowardice”.

Enenche questioned claims of religious superiority or dominance, arguing that such assertions cannot be substantiated without credible census and demographic data.

“How do you know one religion is superior to another without a proper and credible census?” he asked. “If everyone openly declared their faith, many people would be surprised by the number of Christians in places where they assume otherwise.”

The pastor also urged Christians to remain steadfast and confident in their faith.

“This is not the time for believers to cower under any pretense,” he stated.

Addressing those who make what he described as provocative and divisive statements, Enenche challenged them to reflect on their contributions to national development rather than engage in rhetoric capable of fueling tension.

“What positive contributions have such people made to the development of this nation other than making statements that can incite violence?” he asked.

He further called on relevant authorities to take seriously comments that could threaten national peace and security.

“People who are messing up and destroying the nation and they’re walking free of charge and they’re talking”

such person deserve to be in prison or quarantine so that, his mentality can be corrected, himself and his type”

According to him, statements capable of inciting violence or deepening religious divisions should not be ignored, as they have the potential to undermine national unity and stability.

Enenche reaffirmed that Nigeria remains a diverse nation in which citizens of different religious backgrounds are entitled to equal rights, freedom of worship, and full participation on national issues.

He concluded by urging Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and responsible public discourse in the interest of national unity, harmony, and progress.

FMYD, NiYA Partner Cascador to Boost Youth Entrepreneurship, Offer ₦5m Grants to Young Founders

By Maryam Aminu

The Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD), through the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA), has partnered with Nigeria-focused entrepreneurship platform Cascador to equip young entrepreneurs with investment-ready skills and provide funding support, with eight outstanding founders set to receive up to ₦5 million each in non-dilutive funding.

The initiative, unveiled on Friday as part of activities marking the 2026 International Youth Day themed “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” is designed to help young Nigerians transition from skills acquisition and business ideas to sustainable enterprises with access to finance.

Announcing the partnership, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, said the programme reflects the Federal Government’s determination to ensure that youth empowerment goes beyond training by creating practical pathways to entrepreneurship, enterprise development and capital.

According to him, while skills development remains important, empowering young people to build viable businesses and access investment opportunities is critical to achieving sustainable economic participation.

He explained that the NiYA and Cascador Founders Programme will begin with a pilot cohort of 20 early-stage Nigerian youth founders, including entrepreneurs who may not yet have formal business registration or established financial records.

Participants will undergo an intensive four-week programme covering business fundamentals, investment readiness, pitch preparation, virtual engagements and one-on-one mentorship sessions.

At the end of the programme, the eight best-performing founders will each receive up to ₦5 million in non-dilutive funding from Cascador, alongside an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solution to support the growth and management of their businesses.

The programme will culminate in a Pitch Day organised by NiYA and FMYD, where participants will present their business ideas before a panel of judges.

Comrade Olawande said the pilot aligns with NiYA’s broader target of training and empowering seven million Nigerian youths within two years, while building a stronger link between skills development, entrepreneurship and access to finance.

He noted that the long-term objective is to establish a youth entrepreneurship ecosystem where innovation, preparedness and execution not personal background or existing networks determine access to business opportunities and funding.

Under the partnership, FMYD and NiYA will coordinate participant recruitment, training and programme implementation, while Cascador will support investment-readiness training, eligibility assessment, pitch evaluation and funding for the top-performing entrepreneurs.

Speaking on the collaboration, the Chief Executive Officer of Cascador, Trish Thomas, described the initiative as a practical solution to bridging the gap between innovative ideas and access to investment.

Thomas said the partnership builds on the Federal Ministry of Youth Development’s commitment to empowering millions of young Nigerians by creating a pathway that prepares entrepreneurs for funding opportunities.

Also speaking, the Chief Operating Officer of Cascador and former Managing Director of the ARM Labs Lagos Techstars Accelerator, Oyin Solebo, described the collaboration as an innovative model for supporting emerging entrepreneurs.

According to Solebo, combining government-led investment readiness programmes with non-dilutive funding provides young founders with the support needed to transform promising ideas into sustainable businesses.

The pilot programme will be held physically in Abuja, with additional virtual engagements and one-on-one mentorship sessions.

Participants who complete the programme will retain NiYA alumni status and receive priority consideration for future opportunities under relevant NiYA initiatives.

Applications for the programme will open on Wednesday, 19 August 2026, while interested young Nigerian entrepreneurs are expected to apply through the official NiYA portal.

Youth Ministry Permanent Secretary Bags National Ethics, Values Award

By Maryam Aminu

The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, has been honoured with the National Ethics and Values Award 2026 for Ethical Public Service Leadership and Youth Development in recognition of her commitment to integrity, accountability and excellence in public service.

The award was presented on Friday at a ceremony held at NICON Luxury Hotel, Abuja, under the theme, “Ethics in Action: Leadership, Integrity, Legacy Reflecting on Our Journey, Inspiring a Future Grounded in Accountability and Moral Courage.” The event was chaired by the Chairman, House Committee on Information, National Orientation, Ethics and Values, Honourable Steve Olushola Fatoba.

Receiving the award, Dr. Keshinro dedicated the honour to her late father, whom she described as a passionate advocate of girl-child education, as well as to the management staff of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development for their support and collective contributions to the ministry’s achievements.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, delivering her keynote address at the National Ethics and Values Awards 2026, held yesterday at Hilton Luxury Hotel, Abuja.

She also expressed gratitude to the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, for his confidence, encouragement and continued support for her leadership.

Speaking on the importance of ethical leadership in nation-building, the Permanent Secretary said values such as integrity, justice, equity, tolerance, responsibility, diligence and mutual respect remain indispensable to Nigeria’s development.

She urged public servants to uphold professionalism, accountability and excellence in the discharge of their duties, stressing that national interest must always take precedence over personal gains.
“Integrity is who you are even when nobody else is looking at you,” Dr. Keshinro said.

She further described Nigerian youths as the nation’s change-makers and future leaders, noting that they are increasingly playing significant roles in driving national development and contributing to the country’s progress.

The Permanent Secretary, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, with Directors of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development in a group photograph during the National Ethics and Values Awards 2026, held yesterday at Hilton Luxury Hotel, Abuja.

While appreciating the National Orientation Agency, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development and African Young Leaders for the recognition, Dr. Keshinro said the award would inspire her to remain steadfast in promoting ethical leadership and selfless service.

In his remarks, Honourable Steve Olushola Fatoba said the award was instituted to recognise individuals who have demonstrated exemplary ethical leadership, integrity and commitment to national values.

He called on Nigerians, particularly public office holders, to embrace accountability, transparency and moral courage, noting that ethical leadership remains fundamental to building a united, responsible and prosperous nation.

Dr Paul & Dr Mrs Becky Enenche Ignites Another Fresh Powerful Revival Fire Crusade in Maryland, U.S.A.

The Senior Pastors of Dunamis International Gospel Centre (DIGC), Dr Paul & Dr Mrs Becky Enenche, have continued their global evangelistic outreach, igniting another intense Revival Fire in Maryland, USA, through powerful crusade meetings marked by salvation, healing, deliverance, recovery and restoration of human destinies and peace in Nations of the world.

The Maryland Revival Fire Crusade comes on the heels of the successful Ignite Youth Conference in Abuja, Nigeria, and the recently concluded Revival Fire Crusade in Prague, Czech Republic, further demonstrating the clerics and ministry’s commitment to global evangelism and spiritual awakening.

The crusade, which commenced at Prince George’s Stadium, witnessed a remarkable turnout as worshippers gathered in expectation of a fresh move of God and a mighty outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

Upon arrival in the United States Of America (USA), Dr. Paul Enenche declared:

MARYLAND, USA, THE WAIT IS OVER, We have arrived in Maryland, USA, and the moment has come”

“The USA Revival Fire Crusade 2026 begins TODAY, and we are expectant for a mighty outpouring of the Spirit of God”.

“Maryland is ready for an encounter. Hearts will be stirred, faith will rise, lives will be transformed, and the fire of revival will burn brightly”.

“From 13th–14th August, we gather at Prince George’s Stadium for two powerful days of the Word, prayer, healing, deliverance and the move of the Spirit. Maryland, get ready! Revival Fire is here”.

Setting the tone during the crusade at Maryland, Dr. Mrs. Becky Enenche declared that God’s presence had already descended upon the gathering, assuring participants that their long-awaited expectations were about to become testimonies.

Quoting Acts 10:38, she proclaimed:

“Indeed, Jehovah is at work in this place. The Bible says, ‘How God anointed Jesus Christ of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power, who went about doing good and healing all that were oppressed of the devil, for God was with Him.’ Beloved, I would like to let you know that Jehovah has come to Maryland and to the United States.”

She further declared divine authority over every opposing spiritual force, releasing God’s presence, glory, and anointing upon the stadium.

“Somebody’s life and destiny is about to be turned around. Tonight, I take authority over the principalities covering Maryland and the United States. I declare the release of the presence, the glory, and the anointing of God in this stadium. The long-awaited miracle you have been trusting God for is about to be released into your hands.”

As the crusade progressed, Dr. Paul Enenche encouraged eager participants waiting to receive from God to remain patient and expectant. He released fervent prayers and declarations against every unclean spirit, ancestral bondage, generational curses, and the spirit of cancer, proclaiming freedom and deliverance in the name of Jesus Christ.

Ministering on the theme, “Foundation of the Righteous,” from Psalm 11:3, Dr. Enenche emphasized the importance of strong spiritual foundations in determining the destiny of individuals, families, and nations.

“The foundation of everything determines the future of that thing. The worst that can happen to anybody is to exist without a foundation.”

Speaking on the spiritual heritage of the United States, he noted that America was established on strong godly foundations but warned that those foundations have increasingly come under assault through anti-God ideologies and moral decline.

“A solid foundation is found in God and in Christ. America is a nation that was built on a very strong foundation, but suddenly the foundation began to be eroded by all manner of demonic ideologies, perversions, anti-God sentiments, and the agendas of hell.”

Expressing confidence in God’s redemptive purpose for the nation, Dr. Enenche declared that the crusade represented a divine intervention aimed at restoring America’s spiritual identity.

“I believe God sent us all the way here because the destiny of this nation is tied to God. The destiny of this nation is rooted in God, and this nation must return back to God. We refuse to allow the devil to have his way in America.”

The Maryland Revival Fire Crusade was marked by intense worship, special ministrations by; Daniel Paul Enenche, Destiny Paul Enenche, Maryland mass Choir, prayers, healing ministrations, deliverance encounters, and a renewed call for personal and national revival, as multitudes responded in faith for divine intervention and transformation.

The crusade meetings also featured Pastors & ministers session, vibrant moments of worship, fervent prayers, and inspiring testimonies, as participants shared accounts of healing, deliverance, and life-changing encounters with God.

The Maryland Revival Fire Crusade is scheduled to be followed by the 2026 International Ministers Flaming Fire Conference (IMFFC), which will hold from August 25 to 30 at the Glory Dome in Abuja, Nigeria, bringing together ministers and believers from across the globe for another season of impartation, revival, and spiritual empowerment.

Worthy of note, Beyond the spiritual ministrations, Dr. Paul and Dr. Mrs. Becky Enenche remain committed to holistic impact through compassion driven initiatives, community development, soul-winning, and global evangelism.

Their ministry continues to emphasize the restoration of human dignity, transformation of lives and communities across nations of the world.

Nigeria, US Deepen Defence Ties, Strengthen Counter-Terrorism Cooperation

WASHINGTON D.C./ABUJA — August 13, 2026

Nigeria and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening defence and security cooperation, with both countries placing renewed emphasis on counter-terrorism, intelligence sharing and stronger military-to-military relations.

The commitment was made during high-level bilateral engagements in Washington, D.C., led on the Nigerian side by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, as part of efforts to strengthen the strategic security partnership between the two countries.

At a strategic meeting held at the Pentagon, the Defence Minister was accompanied by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede; the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lieutenant General Parker Udiandeye; and other senior officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The Nigerian delegation held extensive discussions with senior officials of the United States Department of War, led by Julia Sokol, Acting Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of War for International Security Affairs.

The meeting formed part of the ongoing United States–Nigeria Joint Working Group Defence Bilateral Talks, with discussions centred on strengthening the two countries’ shared security architecture, enhancing intelligence cooperation and developing greater operational synergy between their respective security establishments.

The Washington engagements were also part of a broader diplomatic mission led by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who led a delegation of senior Nigerian government officials to the United States for the second meeting of the US–Nigeria Joint Working Group, held from August 12 to 13, 2026.

The Joint Working Group meeting was co-chaired by Ribadu and Allison Hooker, the U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs.

The discussions reviewed progress made under existing bilateral security frameworks and examined additional measures to strengthen cooperation in addressing emerging regional and global security threats.

Particular attention was given to actionable areas of cooperation following Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), with both sides reaffirming the importance of continued engagement and constructive dialogue.

The two countries also reiterated their commitment to mutual respect, sustained diplomatic engagement and closer strategic coordination in confronting terrorism and other security challenges affecting Nigeria, the West African region and the wider international community.

The Nigerian delegation’s participation in the talks underscores Abuja’s efforts to deepen international partnerships and strengthen the capacity of the country’s security and defence institutions through enhanced cooperation with strategic allies.

The Defence Ministry said the engagements are expected to contribute to stronger bilateral defence relations and provide a framework for continued collaboration in intelligence, counter-terrorism and other areas of mutual security interest.

The statement was signed electronically by Leah Katung-Babatunde, Special Adviser (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Defence.

Osun Election: CONYSSA Cautions Youths Against Electoral Violence,

Maryam Aminu

The Coalition of Nigerian Youths on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA) has called on young people in Osun State to resist every attempt by politicians and other desperate actors to use them as tools for electoral violence during the forthcoming governorship election.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Director General of CONYSSA, Amb. Ade-Mario Emmanuel, urged youths across the state to uphold peace, protect the sanctity of the electoral process, and demonstrate responsible citizenship before, during, and after the polls.

According to him, it is deeply disturbing that many of those recruited to perpetrate violence during elections are young people, who often end up losing their lives, sustaining life-changing injuries, or facing prosecution, while those who sponsor such acts remain untouched.

“It is painful that our youths are continuously being used as scapegoats and killing machines by selfish political actors. At the end of the day, it is the youths who are arrested, injured, imprisoned, or even killed, while those who instigated the violence go free,” he said.

Amb. Ade-Mario stressed that no political ambition is worth the life of any Nigerian youth, urging young people to reject inducements, resist manipulation, and refuse to become instruments of destruction.

Director General, CONYSSA, Amb Ade-MarioEmmanuel

“Our youths must stop allowing themselves to be used to kill one another. They must reject every form of electoral violence and instead become ambassadors of peace, agents of national unity, and pillars of nation-building. The future of our nation depends on the choices they make today,” he added.

The CONYSSA Director General also called on political parties, candidates, and their supporters to conduct their campaigns and election activities peacefully, in accordance with the Electoral Act and democratic principles.

He further urged security agencies deployed for the election to discharge their constitutional responsibilities with professionalism, neutrality, and fairness, emphasizing that they must protect lives and property, maintain law and order, and ensure that no individual or group undermines the credibility of the electoral process.

“The role of security agencies is to guarantee a peaceful atmosphere where every eligible voter can freely exercise their civic responsibility without fear or intimidation. They must not support or condone any act capable of disrupting the peace or compromising the integrity of the election,” he stated.

Amb. Ade-Mario reaffirmed CONYSSA’s commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence, youth development, and national security, expressing confidence that the people of Osun State would demonstrate political maturity by conducting themselves peacefully throughout the election period.

He appealed to all stakeholders to place the interest of the state and the nation above personal and political ambitions, noting that peaceful elections remain the foundation of sustainable democracy and national development.

NASENI, Gambia Move to Forge Technology Partnership, Cut Import Dependence

By Maryam Aminu

Nigeria’s drive to strengthen indigenous technology and reduce Africa’s dependence on imported capital goods received a boost on Wednesday as the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and the Government of The Gambia moved to establish a broad technology and skills-development partnership.

The two sides agreed to develop a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) covering technology development, technical and vocational education and training (TVET), research, innovation, skills development, technology transfer and commercialisation.

The development followed a high-level experiential learning visit by The Gambia’s Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Prof. Pierre Gomez, and his delegation to NASENI headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.

During the visit, NASENI showcased its technology ecosystem, research capabilities and network of specialised development institutes, while the Gambian delegation received briefings on the agency’s interventions in renewable energy, agricultural mechanisation, electronics, power systems, advanced manufacturing, scientific equipment, aeronautics, solid minerals, machine tools, drone technology and other emerging fields.

The delegation had earlier visited selected NASENI facilities, including the Centre of Excellence and NASENI Solar Energy Limited (NSEL).

Representing NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, the Director, Technology Business Development and Special Adviser on General Matters to the EVC/CEO, Engr. Ozigi O. Benard, said the agency was positioned to serve as a technology development, transfer and commercialisation platform for Nigeria and other African countries seeking to build indigenous technological capacity.

Benard explained that NASENI operates through a network of specialised Development Institutes, providing an integrated platform for research and development, prototyping, testing, manufacturing, technical training, technology transfer and commercialisation.

He said the agency’s strategic direction was anchored on the 3Cs — Creation, Collaboration and Commercialisation, with increasing emphasis on moving research outputs beyond laboratories and prototypes into the marketplace.

According to him, NASENI had identified several areas with strong potential for cooperation with The Gambia, including renewable energy and solar photovoltaic systems, power electronics, embedded systems, industrial automation, agricultural engineering, advanced manufacturing, scientific equipment, materials development, aeronautics, drone technology, solid minerals processing and technical skills development.

He added that NASENI had strengthened partnerships with universities, polytechnics, research institutions and indigenous private-sector companies to support curriculum development, technical training, certification, joint research, technology development and the commercialisation of locally developed technologies.

Benard further said the agency’s commercialisation drive had recorded significant progress since the assumption of office of the EVC/CEO in 2023.

Earlier, Prof. Gomez said The Gambia was seeking to transform its higher education and TVET ecosystem through practical learning, institutional partnerships and stronger African cooperation.

He said the delegation came to Nigeria to learn from NASENI’s practical approach to research, development, manufacturing and technology transfer, with the intention of adapting relevant models to The Gambia.

The proposed cooperation represents a significant step towards stronger African collaboration in technology development, skills acquisition and the commercialisation of locally developed innovations, particularly in sectors critical to economic and industrial development.

Other members of the NASENI team at the meeting included the Acting Managing Director, Solid Minerals Machinery and Equipment Development Institute (SOMMEDI), Prof. Ikyo Barnabas Achakpa; Overseeing Officer, Scientific Equipment Development Institute (SEDI), Minna, Dr. Mahmoud Jafar; Coordinator, Implementation Management Office (IMO) and Special Adviser on Institutional Reforms, Mr. Yusuf Kasheem; and other officials.

NASENI Empowers Osun Youths, Women with Skills, Equipment for Economic Independence

By Maryam Aminu

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has equipped youths and women in Ile-Ife, Osun State, with advanced technical skills and work equipment, in a move aimed at helping beneficiaries build sustainable businesses, create jobs and achieve economic independence.

The intervention was delivered under the Agency’s NASENI Sustainable Empowerment Programme (NSEP) during a three-day training held from August 7 to 9, 2026, at the NASENI Skills Acquisition Centre, Ile-Ife.
Beneficiaries were trained in advanced photography and drone operations, shoemaking, CCTV and inverter installations, and tailoring, with participants receiving practical knowledge and equipment to enable them to immediately apply their skills and establish or expand income-generating ventures.

Chief Executive Officer NASENI, Khalil Suleiman Halilu

Speaking at the closing ceremony, NASENI’s Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, represented by the Overseeing Officer of the Prototype Engineering Development Institute (PEDI), Ilesha, Ahmed Olaoye Hamzat, said the programme was designed to take empowerment beyond the award of certificates.
He said the initiative combined practical skills acquisition with the provision of relevant equipment so beneficiaries could translate their training into sustainable livelihoods and viable enterprises.

According to Halilu, the equipment should be seen as “starter tools” for building businesses rather than mere empowerment items. He urged participants to use their newly acquired skills to provide quality services, train others, create employment and contribute to the development of their communities.

L-R: the Overseeing Officer of Prototype Equipment Development Institute (PEDI) Ilesa, Mr. Ahmed Olaoye Hamzat, who represented the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu and a Special dignitary (3rd from left), during the presentation of CCTV Installation work tools to the beneficiary of CCTV and Inverter Installations Training at the closing ceremony of the 3 days training at the NASENI Skills Acquisition Center in Ife Osun State, on 9th August, 2026.

He said the success of NSEP would ultimately be measured by its multiplier effect, noting that a beneficiary who grows a business, employs another young person, trains an apprentice or provides reliable technical services would be advancing the core objectives of the programme.

The NASENI chief executive also reiterated that the Agency’s empowerment interventions are anchored on its 3Cs of Creation, Collaboration and Commercialisation, through which it develops innovative solutions, works with stakeholders and communities, and converts technologies, skills and innovations into economic value.

Halilu commended community leaders, trainers, partners and other stakeholders for supporting the programme. He particularly acknowledged the Chairman of the House Committee on NASENI, Hon. Taofeek Abimbola Ajilesoro, for his partnership and support in expanding technology-driven opportunities for youths and women.

L-R: His Royal Highness Oba Oranfe of Ife, Chief Abiodun Mulatto and His Royal Highness Osogun of Ife, Chief Oladapo Olafiranye (3rd from left) presenting an Industrial sewing machine to one of the beneficiaries of the 3 days Advanced Tailoring Training at the NASENI Skills Acquisition Center in Ife, Osun State, on 9th August, 2026

Also speaking, Ajilesoro, represented by Felix Olayemi Oruma, commended NASENI for taking the skills acquisition initiative to Ile-Ife, describing the intervention as a practical pathway to economic productivity.

Oruma said the beneficiaries had gained exposure to modern techniques and equipment in tailoring, CCTV and inverter installation, shoemaking, photography and drone operations, which he said would enable them to upgrade their skills and improve professional standards.
He described the programme as a sustainable model of empowerment, saying it was focused on equipping Nigerians with the capacity to become self-reliant rather than providing temporary assistance.

He further commended NASENI for its interventions in innovation, reverse engineering, local assembly and indigenous technology development, noting that the Agency had continued to strengthen its relevance through initiatives that develop human capacity and create economic opportunities.

A Cross section of beneficiaries of the Advanced Tailoring Training with their empowered Industrial sewing machines during the closing ceremony of the 3 days at the NASENI Skills Acquisition Center in Ife, Osun State on 9th August, 2026

The Ile-Ife intervention forms part of NASENI’s broader effort to promote technology-based skills, entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods by linking practical training with the tools required to turn acquired knowledge into productive economic activity.

FG Launches National Youth Content Challenge to Boost Awareness of Opportunities

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has unveiled a nationwide content creation challenge aimed at mobilising young Nigerians to use their creativity and social media influence to connect millions of youths with government-backed empowerment opportunities.

The initiative, known as the Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD) Youth Opportunities Content Challenge, was launched on Wednesday by the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Olawande Emmanuel Ayodele, during the 2026 International Youth Day celebration themed, “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”

The minister said the interventions are designed to ensure young Nigerians can “see, touch and feel” the impact of government programmes, urging them to use their creativity and digital platforms to help others access opportunities capable of transforming their lives.

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, delivering his opening remarks during the commemoration of the 2026 International Youth Day in Abuja.

Ayodele said the challenge seeks to encourage young Nigerians to identify available government opportunities, understand their benefits and creatively share the information with others who could benefit.
“We are not asking you to praise the Ministry; we are asking you to inform another young Nigerian,” the minister said, noting that details of the competition, including its guidelines, categories, timelines and prizes, would be announced soon.

The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, and the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, during the commemoration of the 2026 International Youth Day in Abuja.

He said the theme of this year’s International Youth Day reflects the realities of Nigerian youths, who, despite differences in culture, educational background and social circumstances, share common aspirations for opportunity, innovation, success and a peaceful, prosperous nation.

According to the minister, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has continued to translate those aspirations into practical programmes aimed at expanding opportunities for young Nigerians.
He disclosed that 239,726 youths have so far acquired digital, employability and other practical skills through the Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA).

Ayodele added that the government is supporting young entrepreneurs through NiYA StartUp, expanding access to finance under YouthCred, while creating more opportunities through the Youth Agricultural Land Trust Fund and the Presidential Metering Initiative.

Cross-section of participants during the commemoration of the 2026 International Youth Day organised by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development in Abuja.

He also highlighted the establishment of the Nigerian Youth Help Desk and the ongoing reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), describing it as the first comprehensive overhaul of the scheme since its creation 53 years ago.

The statement was signed by Omolara Esan, Director of Information and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Youth Development.

CONYSSA Urges Nigerian Youths to Champion Peace, Security on International Youth Day 2026

Adejoh Bilkisu

The Coalition of Nigerian Youths on Security and Safety Affairs (CONYSSA) has challenged young Nigerians to take the lead in fostering peace, security and national unity, declaring that the country’s youthful population remains its greatest strength in tackling insecurity and accelerating sustainable development.

The charge was made by the National President of CONYSSA, Amb. Ade-Mario Emmanuel, in a statement signed by Maryam Aminu, Director, Directorate of Media, CONYSSA, marking the 2026 International Youth Day, themed “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.”

Describing the annual celebration as more than a recognition of the resilience and achievements of young people, Ade-Mario said it should also serve as a call to action for youths to actively shape a more peaceful, secure and prosperous Nigeria.

According to him, Nigeria’s quest for lasting peace and sustainable development cannot be achieved without the active involvement of its youth, whom he said have continued to demonstrate courage, innovation and resilience despite prevailing economic and security challenges.

“Nigeria cannot attain lasting peace and sustainable development without the active participation of its young people. Across our communities, young Nigerians have continued to demonstrate courage, innovation and resilience despite prevailing economic and security challenges. These qualities must now be channelled towards nation-building, conflict resolution and community development,” he said.

The CONYSSA President urged young Nigerians to shun violence, cultism, kidnapping, terrorism, cybercrime, drug abuse, ethnic and religious intolerance, hate speech and every other act capable of undermining the country’s peace and stability.

He instead encouraged them to embrace dialogue, volunteerism, entrepreneurship, civic responsibility and active participation in community-based initiatives that promote safety, peaceful coexistence and social cohesion.

Ade-Mario stressed that safeguarding Nigeria’s security is a collective responsibility, insisting that every citizen, particularly young people, has a role to play in building safer communities.
“Every young Nigerian has a role to play in safeguarding our communities. National security is not the exclusive responsibility of security agencies; it is a shared responsibility that demands patriotism, vigilance, mutual respect and collective action. Our future depends on the choices we make today,” he stated.

While acknowledging the remarkable achievements of Nigerian youths in entrepreneurship, technology, agriculture, education, sports, public service and the creative industry, he expressed concern that millions still grapple with unemployment and limited access to opportunities.

He therefore called on the Federal Government, state governments, development partners, private sector organisations and civil society groups to deepen investments in education, skills acquisition, innovation, job creation and leadership development, describing youth empowerment as one of the most effective pathways to national security and sustainable development.

According to him, creating an enabling environment for young people to realise their full potential would transform them into partners in national development rather than victims of socio-economic circumstances.

The CONYSSA President reaffirmed the coalition’s commitment to promoting youth participation in peacebuilding, security advocacy, policy dialogue and community engagement through sustained awareness campaigns, leadership development initiatives and strategic partnerships with government institutions, security agencies and other stakeholders.

He also commended young Nigerians serving in the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, other security and emergency agencies, healthcare institutions, educational establishments, humanitarian organisations and various sectors of the economy, describing their sacrifices as evidence of the patriotism and resilience of the nation’s youth.

“As we commemorate International Youth Day 2026, let this occasion inspire every young Nigerian to become a bridge-builder, a problem-solver and a champion of peace. Together, we can build a nation where security is strengthened, opportunities are expanded and every young person has the platform to succeed,” he said.

He added that CONYSSA would remain steadfast in mobilising Nigerian youths towards building safer communities, strengthening national unity and advancing sustainable development.

Amb. Ade-Mario concluded with a congratulatory message to Nigerian youths on the occasion of the 2026 International Youth Day, urging them to remain united in promoting peace, patriotism and responsible citizenship for the nation’s progress.