Author Archives: daudupress

FG Partners with Google to Drive Youth Empowerment Through Digital Transformation

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a strategic partnership with global tech giant Google to accelerate youth empowerment and drive nationwide digital transformation.

The collaboration, facilitated through the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, was unveiled by the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, during a courtesy visit by a Google delegation led by Tanya Singh, Head of Value Education, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.

Comrade Olawande described the partnership as a vital step toward achieving the Ministry’s “One Youth, Two Skills” agenda under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.

He emphasized that creating meaningful opportunities for young Nigerians requires more than government funding, calling on NGOs and private sector actors to support this national vision. “This collaboration with Google is a testament to our commitment to equipping youth with the digital tools and infrastructure needed for success,” the Minister said.

Tanya Singh, representing Google, stated that the initiative stems from recent high-level discussions between President Tinubu and Google’s CEO in France.

She outlined five strategic pillars of collaboration: building digital infrastructure, developing human capacity, promoting economic diversification, supporting SMEs and entrepreneurship, and positioning Nigeria as a global AI and tech talent hub.

“Across all pillars, one truth remains constant we must invest in talent,” Singh noted. She announced plans to launch a Digital Youth Academy, expand digital literacy programs, and introduce key Google initiatives tailored to Nigeria’s growing youth demographic.

She further highlighted the importance of preparing young people not just with digital skills, but also with the ability to apply those skills in real-world contexts.

The Ministry also reaffirmed ongoing partnerships with NITDA and other government agencies to foster youth advancement through technology and innovation.

FCT Seeks RMAFC’s Endorsement to Access Natural Resources Fund for Infrastructure Projects

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has formally sought the support of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to access funding from the Development of Natural Resources Fund (DNRF), aimed at accelerating infrastructure and economic development across key sectors in the FCT.

This request was presented on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, when a delegation from the FCT, led by Acting Chairman of the FCT-Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Mr. Michael Ango representing the Honourable Minister of the FCT, His Excellency Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, met with the Commission’s Fiscal Efficiency and Budget Committee.

The team was received by Ambassador Desmond Akawor, Chairman of the Committee and Federal Commissioner representing Rivers State, on behalf of the Commission’s Chairman, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu.

Addressing the delegation, Ambassador Akawor praised the developmental initiatives of the Honourable Minister, highlighting the FCTA’s strategic focus on utilizing its agricultural, solid minerals, and tourism resources to foster economic diversification key components of the Renewed Hope Agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He emphasized that the Development of Natural Resources Fund established by the Revenue Allocation (Federation Account, etc) Act CAP A15 LFN, 2004 receives monthly allocations from the Federation Account, held in trust for all tiers of government.

Ambassador Akawor explained that eligibility for accessing the fund requires a formal presentation to the Commission, followed by a physical assessment visit and recommendation report, which is ultimately submitted to the President for approval.

During the session, Mr. Ango outlined a range of proposed projects including the rehabilitation of major dams in the FCT for year-round agriculture, installation of solar-powered irrigation systems, establishment of mechanized farming centers, modernized crop storage technologies, improved veterinary services, and development of the FCT’s tourism and mineral resources sectors.

Committee members commended the FCT’s forward-thinking initiatives and engaged the delegation in detailed discussions on the feasibility and impact of the proposed projects.

Mr. Ango assured the Commission that, if approved, the funds would be transparently and effectively utilized.

The meeting follows a formal letter by the Honourable Minister of the FCT requesting access to the DNRF as part of efforts to boost infrastructure and economic sustainability in the region.

In a vote of thanks, Ambassador Ayuba Jacob Ngbako, the Federal Commissioner representing the FCT at RMAFC, lauded the FCT-IRS for its proactive approach to enhancing internally generated revenue.

He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and called on his colleagues to give the FCT’s request fair and favorable consideration.

NSIPA to Launch Key Social Investment Programmes After Payment to 1.8 Million Beneficiaries

Emmanuel Daudu

The National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) has announced plans to roll out major social intervention programmes including the Government Enterprise and Empowerment Programme (GEEP), N-Power, the Grant for Vulnerable Groups (GVG), and the National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme (NHGSFP), following the successful disbursement of payments to over 1.8 million Nigerians.

This was revealed by the National Coordinator and CEO of NSIPA, Associate Professor Badamasi Lawal, PhD, during the opening ceremony of the agency’s management workshop in Abuja. Themed “Policy Development for Social Investment Programme Agency: Programme Implementation and Structure,” the event marks the first of its kind since Dr. Badamasi assumed leadership of the agency.

The milestone, made possible through the coordinated efforts of the National Social Safety Net Coordinating Office (NASSCO) and the National Cash Transfer Office (NCTO), sets the stage for a fresh wave of social interventions in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Dr. Badamasi described the moment as pivotal in NSIPA’s mission to address poverty, inequality, and vulnerability across Nigeria. “We are at a turning point, driven by renewed hope and strengthened resolve under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.

He underscored the need for effective policies, strong institutional frameworks, and collaboration with communities and development partners to ensure the sustainability and impact of the programmes.

The workshop, organized in partnership with NEETSGE Nigeria Ltd, explored critical themes such as the NSIPA Act of 2023, the roles of programme managers, administrative procedures, and inter-agency synergy in implementing social investment initiatives.

Dr. Badamasi reiterated NSIPA’s commitment to delivering measurable results, saying, “Our goal is to harmonize our strategies, enhance inclusivity and efficiency, and build a resilient system that delivers at scale.”

FRC Chairman Hosts SERDEC on Advocacy Visit, Pledges Stronger Collaboration for Fiscal Transparency

Maryam Aminu

The Executive Chairman of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), Victor Muruako, Esq., has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and stronger collaboration with civil society organizations, following an advocacy visit by the Socio-Economic Research and Development Centre (SERDEC) at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

Led by SERDEC’s Executive Director, Tijani Abdulkareem, the visit was part of ongoing advocacy efforts under the Open Government Partnership (OGP) framework aimed at strengthening institutional engagement and promoting fiscal openness and responsible public financial management.

During the visit, the SERDEC delegation emphasized the need for strategic alignment between the FRC’s mandate and the broader objectives of the OGP.

The team also presented a set of proposals including improved public access to fiscal data, regular civil society forums, joint public education on budgeting and fiscal laws, and collaboration in budget tracking, especially at grassroots levels.

“SERDEC recognizes the pivotal role FRC plays in enforcing fiscal discipline, monitoring public expenditure, and ensuring budget compliance. These are essential pillars for transparency, anti-corruption, and citizen engagement,” Abdulkareem said.

In response, Chairman Muruako welcomed the initiative, commending SERDEC’s efforts in advancing fiscal transparency and citizen participation.

He reiterated the Commission’s active role in anti-corruption reform, particularly through its participation in the Technical Unit on Governance and Anti-Corruption Reform (TUGAR).

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s fiscal reforms and voiced support for Local Government autonomy, while stressing the importance of capacity-building in fiscal management at the local level.

“The Commission is open to collaboration but faces resource constraints in executing its broad mandate,” Muruako stated, adding that plans are underway to amend the Fiscal Responsibility Act, 2007 to bolster revenue generation into the Consolidated Revenue Fund.

He assured SERDEC of the Commission’s readiness to work closely with stakeholders in advancing Nigeria’s fiscal governance goals, stating, “Our collaboration machinery is ready and waiting. We look forward to working together to achieve our shared vision of open and accountable governance.”

FRC Chairman Pays Courtesy Visit to Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Finance

Maryam Aminu

In a bid to strengthen inter-agency collaboration, the Executive Chairman of the Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC), Victor Muruako, Esq., on Tuesday paid a courtesy and working visit to the Permanent Secretary (Special Duties), Mr. Raymond Omenka Omachi, at the Federal Ministry of Finance headquarters in Abuja.

Mr. Muruako, who was accompanied by the Director of Finance and Accounts at FRC, Mrs. Victoria Bukola Adiwu-Angakuru, expressed appreciation for the warm reception and emphasized the importance of institutional synergy in advancing fiscal responsibility. Also present at the meeting was the Director of the Presidential Initiative on Continuous Audit (PICA), Mr. Yusuf A. Musa II, who joined the Permanent Secretary in receiving the FRC delegation.

The discussions focused on fostering stronger cooperation between the FRC and the Ministry, with particular emphasis on enhancing the independent revenue streams of the Federal Government and identifying strategies to reduce the cost of governance.

Both parties underscored the importance of sustained collaboration and pledged to work more closely in the future to advance shared objectives in public financial management and fiscal transparency.

FG Commences Major Overhaul of NYSC, Inaugurates Reform Committee

Maryam Aminu

The Federal Government has launched a comprehensive reform process for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), inaugurating a high-level committee tasked with reviewing and overhauling the 51-year-old scheme.

The move is aimed at repositioning the NYSC to better align with national development objectives and the dynamic needs of Nigerian youth.

Speaking at the inauguration held at the Federal Ministry of Youth Development in Abuja, the Director of Information and Public Relations, Omolara Esan, stated that the reform is a critical step toward revitalizing the scheme’s relevance, effectiveness, and security, while also addressing infrastructural and operational challenges. She noted that the reform committee will engage with a broad range of stakeholders across sectors to ensure a truly inclusive process.

In his keynote address, the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, acknowledged the NYSC’s historic role in promoting national unity and youth empowerment since its inception in 1973. However, he emphasized the need to reposition the scheme to reflect present-day realities, including safety concerns for corps members and the need to enhance the scheme’s contribution to socio-economic development.

“The issue of safety of corps members, infrastructural deficits, and the broader question about the relevance of the scheme in an increasingly dynamic socio-economic landscape are some of the challenges faced. But these also present opportunities that demand urgent, visionary, and determined action,” Olawande said.

He outlined the committee’s core mandate: to conduct a thorough review of existing policies, legal frameworks, and operational guidelines; hold nationwide consultations; and propose transformative reforms, including improved funding mechanisms and monitoring systems. The committee is expected to submit a detailed report to the Ministry within a set timeframe.

Also present was the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, who proposed the introduction of a Teachers’ Corps and a Medical Corps for NCE-certified graduates and healthcare professionals, particularly for deployment to rural areas. These optional two-year initiatives aim to address education and healthcare disparities, offering participants potential pathways to permanent government employment.

In her address, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Hajiya Hadiza Bala Usman, emphasized the importance of aligning technical and vocational skills training with academic development. She highlighted the need to empower youth for long-term impact in their communities and the nation.

CIPSMN Accuses BPP, CIPS-UK, and World Bank of Violating Nigerian Procurement Laws

By Dr. Emmanuel Daudu

The Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria (CIPSMN) has issued a strong condemnation of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply, United Kingdom (CIPS-UK), and the World Bank over the recent launch of the National Procurement Certification Project (NPCP), describing it as a direct violation of Nigerian laws.

The NPCP was officially launched on April 30 by the BPP in collaboration with CIPS-UK and with support from the World Bank. However, CIPSMN claims the initiative undermines its statutory role and contravenes several provisions of the CIPSMN Act No. 21 of 2007, particularly Sections 11, 16, and 20, which vest authority for training, certification, and regulation of procurement professionals solely in the Institute.

According to a statement signed by Prof. M. J. Aliyu, Registrar and CEO of CIPSMN, “The BPP has overstepped its mandate by engaging in training and certification of procurement professionals, a function not assigned to it under the Public Procurement Act (PPA) 2007. This is not only a violation of the law but also a serious affront to professional standards and regulatory sovereignty.”

CIPSMN emphasized that the BPP’s partnership with foreign institutions such as CIPS-UK, under the guise of procurement reform, bypasses Nigerian regulatory frameworks and threatens to erode the authority of indigenous professional bodies. It also criticized what it described as a “pattern of illegality,” pointing to the BPP’s historical disregard for CIPSMN’s statutory mandate and its continued operation without oversight from the National Council on Public Procurement (NCPP), as required by the PPA 2007.

“The BPP has transformed from a regulatory agency to a self-appointed certification body, using foreign organizations to impose external systems on Nigeria. This is akin to professional colonization,” the statement read.

The Institute expressed particular concern over the use of the World Bank’s influence in promoting what it described as an unlawful certification regime, allegedly designed to legitimize foreign qualifications over Nigerian regulatory authority.

CIPSMN likened the current situation to a scenario where other regulatory bodies such as the Medical and Dental Council, COREN, or ICAN are bypassed by external institutions an act it says would not be tolerated in any sovereign jurisdiction.

While acknowledging the BPP’s mandate to enhance public procurement standards and build capacity, the Institute insisted that professional certification must remain within the remit of CIPSMN as established by law.

It warned that it would pursue all legal and institutional avenues to challenge the NPCP initiative and protect its regulatory authority.

“This illegal encroachment on our statutory responsibilities will not stand,” said Prof. Aliyu. “We will defend the integrity of procurement practice in Nigeria against any form of external or internal subversion.”

CIPSMN called for immediate government intervention to halt the NPCP and ensure that all procurement-related capacity-building efforts are aligned with existing legal and professional frameworks.

CIPSMN Accuses BPP, CIPS-UK, and World Bank of Violating Nigerian Procurement Laws

By Dr. Emmanuel Daudu

The Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Management of Nigeria (CIPSMN) has issued a strong condemnation of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply, United Kingdom (CIPS-UK), and the World Bank over the recent launch of the National Procurement Certification Project (NPCP), describing it as a direct violation of Nigerian laws.

The NPCP was officially launched on April 30 by the BPP in collaboration with CIPS-UK and with support from the World Bank. However, CIPSMN claims the initiative undermines its statutory role and contravenes several provisions of the CIPSMN Act No. 21 of 2007, particularly Sections 11, 16, and 20, which vest authority for training, certification, and regulation of procurement professionals solely in the Institute.

According to a statement signed by Prof. M. J. Aliyu, Registrar and CEO of CIPSMN, “The BPP has overstepped its mandate by engaging in training and certification of procurement professionals, a function not assigned to it under the Public Procurement Act (PPA) 2007. This is not only a violation of the law but also a serious affront to professional standards and regulatory sovereignty.”

CIPSMN emphasized that the BPP’s partnership with foreign institutions such as CIPS-UK, under the guise of procurement reform, bypasses Nigerian regulatory frameworks and threatens to erode the authority of indigenous professional bodies. It also criticized what it described as a “pattern of illegality,” pointing to the BPP’s historical disregard for CIPSMN’s statutory mandate and its continued operation without oversight from the National Council on Public Procurement (NCPP), as required by the PPA 2007.

“The BPP has transformed from a regulatory agency to a self-appointed certification body, using foreign organizations to impose external systems on Nigeria. This is akin to professional colonization,” the statement read.

The Institute expressed particular concern over the use of the World Bank’s influence in promoting what it described as an unlawful certification regime, allegedly designed to legitimize foreign qualifications over Nigerian regulatory authority.

CIPSMN likened the current situation to a scenario where other regulatory bodies such as the Medical and Dental Council, COREN, or ICAN are bypassed by external institutions an act it says would not be tolerated in any sovereign jurisdiction.

While acknowledging the BPP’s mandate to enhance public procurement standards and build capacity, the Institute insisted that professional certification must remain within the remit of CIPSMN as established by law.

It warned that it would pursue all legal and institutional avenues to challenge the NPCP initiative and protect its regulatory authority.

“This illegal encroachment on our statutory responsibilities will not stand,” said Prof. Aliyu. “We will defend the integrity of procurement practice in Nigeria against any form of external or internal subversion.”

CIPSMN called for immediate government intervention to halt the NPCP and ensure that all procurement-related capacity-building efforts are aligned with existing legal and professional frameworks.

President Tinubu Pays Surprise Visit to Frontline Troops in Katsina

Emmanuel Daudu

In a rare and symbolic show of solidarity, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, made an unannounced visit to frontline troops engaged in Operation FANSAN YAMMA in Katsina State.

The visit, which was conducted without the usual high-ranking military entourage, allowed the President to directly assess the security situation and engage with soldiers on the ground. It marks a significant moment in the administration’s ongoing efforts to address insecurity in Nigeria’s northern region.

The statement was issued by Patience Ituke on behalf of the Director of Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, underscoring the importance of the visit and reaffirming the government’s support for the armed forces.

Speaking to the troops, President Tinubu praised their courage and emphasized the national importance of their mission. “The fight you are waging here in Katsina and across the country is not just a battle for territory; it is a battle for the soul of Nigeria,” he said. “Nigeria depends on you, and I am with you today, tomorrow, and always.”

He described the soldiers as “the shield of Nigeria” and commended their sacrifice, noting that their resilience and dedication were inspiring the nation. “Every inch of ground you hold, every terrorist you neutralize, and every community you secure is a victory for justice, freedom, and the future of our children,” the President stated.

In a passionate address, Tinubu assured the troops of his government’s unwavering support, promising enhanced welfare, better equipment, improved logistics, and sustained investment in military infrastructure. “We are taking bold steps to equip you with advanced technology, superior intelligence, and robust logistical support… Your welfare is my top priority,” he declared.

The President also reiterated plans for improved housing, insurance coverage, and family support programs for military personnel.

“To those who seek to destabilize our nation, be they domestic collaborators or foreign agents, hear this: Nigeria will not bow. Not to fear. Not to terror. Not to treachery… With your valor and discipline, peace shall prevail.” said Tinubu

Matawalle Applauds Tinubu’s Reforms, Predicts Second Term Victory

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing reforms, describing them as transformative measures that are setting Nigeria on a path to progress.

He expressed confidence that the administration’s achievements could pave the way for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

In a statement issued by Patience Ituke, spokesperson for the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, Matawalle highlighted key milestones in the areas of security, economic development, and infrastructure.

He cited the neutralization of over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, the arrest of 11,600 suspected criminals, and the recovery of more than 10,000 weapons in 2024 as evidence of the administration’s effective security strategy.

He also credited the establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) with enhancing coordination in the fight against kidnapping and violent crime.

On the economic front, Matawalle lauded the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development as a bold move aimed at unlocking the agricultural potential of northern Nigeria.

He noted that the initiative is already yielding results, including a recent drop in grain prices, which he attributed to improved agricultural output and distribution.

Matawalle also drew attention to the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, particularly the expansion of road networks and transport infrastructure in northern regions, which he said are vital for economic connectivity and growth.

Addressing issues of governance, the Minister voiced support for the newly enacted local government autonomy law. According to him, empowering local governments with greater administrative and financial independence will foster accountability and enhance service delivery at the grassroots.

While emphasizing that his remarks reflect personal confidence in the administration’s trajectory, Matawalle’s endorsement suggests growing optimism among key government officials about President Tinubu’s political future.