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Sterling Bank Announces N2bn Private University Scholarships for Young Nigerians

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Sterling Bank Announces N2bn Private University Scholarships for Young Nigerians

Nigeria’s most forward-looking financial institution, Sterling Bank, has announced an over ₦2bn commitment for fully-funded private university scholarships for young Nigerians.

Unveiled on Democracy Day, the initiative titled Beyond Education, represents a decisive step towards building the country’s future leaders by dismantling the barriers that keep millions of Nigerians from accessing quality, future-focused learning.

This is one of the largest private sector investments ever made in a single Nigerian tertiary institution. It extends Sterling’s longstanding commitment to the HEART sectors: Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation.

The bank has deployed over half a trillion naira in financing and development programmes across these critical areas.

“Progress is not a spectator sport,” said Abubakar Suleiman, Chief Executive of Sterling Bank. “While others talk about Nigeria’s potential, we are actively investing in it. These scholarships are direct investments in the architects of our future.

We are funding the education of future leaders who will build the companies, systems, institutions and solutions Nigeria needs to thrive.”

The Sterling Beyond Education programme will fully sponsor 600 students to study high-impact fields such as Technology, Finance, Sales, and Public Health. It is open to young Nigerians from all 36 states and the FCT, with a merit-based and inclusive admissions process.

Candidates can nominate themselves or be nominated by others, and final selection will be determined through a public voting process open exclusively to Sterling account holders.

“This is what inclusive investment looks like,” said Obinna Ukachukwu, Growth Executive leading the Retail & Consumer Banking Directorate at Sterling Bank.

“This initiative goes beyond access to education, it’s access to a future. Education remains the most valuable asset anyone can have, and we’re proud to stand behind young Nigerians as they claim it.”

The pilot programme is in partnership with Miva University, founded by renowned tech entrepreneur, Sim Shagaya. Fully accredited by the National Universities Commission, Miva is redefining higher education in Africa with scalable, affordable, and flexible programmes tailored to the demands of the digital economy.

The programme also reflects Sterling’s advocacy for organisations to shift from short-term
philanthropy to long-term ecosystem development. With deep investments in digitised healthcare, school financing, agricultural cooperatives, solar energy, and low-cost transport systems, Sterling is building pathways to inclusive prosperity.

“We’re moving beyond charity,” Suleiman said. “This is about building systems that last and it is much bigger than hundreds of scholarships. It’s about the future those brilliant young minds will build for our country.”

Nominations are now open at www.sterling.ng/FUTURE. As Africa’s youth population continues to grow, initiatives like Beyond Education may point to a new blueprint for private sector leadership,
one where impact is measured not just in profit, but in people empowered.

About Sterling Bank

Sterling Bank is a leading Nigerian commercial bank and one of Africa’s most progressive financial institutions, widely recognised for its bold approach to customer advocacy and ethical banking.

From eliminating local transfer fees through its OneBank platform to championing inclusive access to capital, the bank has consistently led with impact.

Renowned for its HEART of Sterling strategy, which focuses major investments into the Healthcare, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation sectors of the Nigerian economy, Sterling continues to build innovative solutions that go beyond banking to enable dignity, mobility, and opportunity for millions of Nigerians. Explore Sterling Bank offerings at sterling.ng.

Governor Soludo Calls For Elimination of Religious, Ethnic Bigotry

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Governor Soludo Calls For Elimination of Religious, Ethnic Bigotry

The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has called on political and other leaders in the country to continually design conscious programmes to kill religious and ethnic bigotry, as a way of building a progressive nation.

Governor Soludo affirmed that the country needs a national conversation around citizenship against other forms, and to create a Nigeria where “state of origin” or religion will no longer be a defining basis to participate or benefit in the scheme of things.

While delivering his Democracy Day speech on “Rebuilding The Nation,” at the Platform in Lagos, on Thursday, 12th June 2025, the governor asserted that a new Nigerian personality will never emerge if one is constantly reminded that irrespective of how many years or generations the person has lived, and invested in a place and paid taxes throughout life, he or she still don’t “belong” there because of differences in state of origin.

He said part of the national conversation on moving the nation forward should include a Bureau to address grievances against the Nigerian state. Part of the process of building a nation is ongoing, open, and constructive dialogue,” the governor avowed.

Using Anambra State as a case study, Governor Soludo said his administration’s philosophy of governance is summarised by the slogan, “One State, One People, One Agenda,” without looking at the differences in senatorial zones, religion, or religious denominations, but driven by the importance of the infrastructure to the people and where it is most required.

“We prioritise our programmes by need, designed to lift all boats, especially the most neglected sections of society, rather than nepotism or patronage,” the governor stated.

According to Governor Soludo, the five new general hospitals he completed in three years are all in the North senatorial zone (the zone of his immediate predecessor) and none in the southern zone where he comes from, and his most celebrated urban regeneration at Okpoko is also in the north zone, due current needs rather than political correctness.

The Governor, popularly known as Mr Solution, references the Yoruba tribe family liberalism where husband, wife, and children can differ in religion and still live in peace and harmony. This culture can be extended to ethnic integration, social and cultural harmony, he argued.

For example, “I have appointed permanent secretaries from Abia and Osun states, while my political appointees also came from Kogi, Ebonyi, Imo, Delta, Enugu, and Imo states. Indeed, the 8,115 new teachers and over 1,000 medical professionals we recruited are from 18 states of the country.”

The governor added, “We must intentionally mainstream One Nigeria with One Destiny, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a leader in this regard.”

200 Students to Learn Menstrual Hygiene Management, Etiquette in Lagos

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200 Students to Learn Menstrual Hygiene Management, Etiquette in Lagos

No fewer than 200 students from Lagos State Education District Six have been selected to participate in a comprehensive training on menstrual hygiene management, leadership skill development and Etiquette.

The event is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at the Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT Pavilion, Alausa, Ikeja, by 10:00 a.m.

Speaking at a media roundtable, the convener of the programme, Mrs Adeola Akinsulure emphasized that the initiative was designed to instill confidence, discipline, and self-care among young girls, enabling them to become role models and change agents within their schools and communities.

“My aim is to educate girls on menstrual hygiene management, promote good health practices, and reduce the stigma associated with menstruation.

We will also talk about the psychological effects of menstrual disorders such as Premenstrual Syndrome(PMS).” Akinsulure said.

“I also hope to develop leadership abilities among girls, enabling them to take initiatives that will bring about positive changes in their environments.”

Akinsulure, who is a Biology teacher at Omole Senior Grammar School, Ikeja and Founder, REACHHer Hub added that the etiquette component of the program will enhance participants’ social and communication skills, equipping them for both personal and professional growth.

Highlighting the selection process, Akinsulure explained that: “We are bringing together 200 girls from Junior and Senior Secondary Schools across the three zones in Education District VI.

“We prioritised students who have shown leadership potential or are currently holding leadership positions.”

The event promises to be interactive and impactful, featuring expert sessions from education and health professionals, as well as leadership coaches. In addition to informative workshops, participants will engage in group activities aimed at fostering teamwork and personal development.

At the conclusion of the training, students will receive menstrual hygiene kits and educational materials to support continued learning and practice.

Dayo Asade Pledges Inclusive Leadership in Democracy Day Message to Ifako Ijaiye Residents

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Dayo Asade Pledges Inclusive Leadership in Democracy Day Message to Ifako Ijaiye Residents

As Nigeria marks Democracy Day, an aspirant for the chairmanship of Ifako Ijaiye Local Government, Dayo Asade has called on residents to reflect on the strength of unity, the progress made as a nation, and the urgent need for inclusive governance at the grassroots level.

In a message issued to commemorate the day, Asade celebrated Nigeria’s democratic journey while stressing the importance of translating democratic ideals into tangible benefits for local communities.

“Democracy Day is more than a celebration—it’s a call to action,” Asade stated. “While we rejoice in our democratic progress, we must also confront the challenges facing our people: inadequate infrastructure, youth unemployment, and poor service delivery. These are not just problems—they are opportunities for bold, people-focused leadership.”

Positioning himself as a bridge between the government and the governed, Asade reaffirmed his commitment to responsive leadership that listens to and works for the people.

He promised that under his stewardship, Ifako Ijaiye would witness a new era of development driven by transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.

“I believe in an Ifako Ijaiye where no one is left behind,” he said. “A community where roads are motorable, youths are empowered, and every resident feels the impact of government. Together, we can build a local government that reflects the dreams and dignity of its people.”

Asade concluded his message with a call for civic engagement and unity, urging residents to renew their faith in democracy and the power of collective progress.

The aspiring chairman’s Democracy Day message comes amid increasing calls for grassroots reforms and a renewed focus on community-driven development across Nigeria.

WAEC Refutes Claims of Arbitrary Result Withholding, Assures Due Process in Exam Malpractice Cases

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WAEC Assures Stakeholders of Seamless Conduct of 2026 WASSCE Despite Workers’ Protest

The West African Examinations Council, WAEC has responded to a media report alleging that the Council is unjustly withholding a student’s West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) result, leading to emotional distress and depression.

The mother of the affected candidate was quoted in the report pleading for the release of her son’s certificate, stating that the prolonged delay was negatively impacting his mental health and future prospects.

In a statement issued on Thursday, June 12 by its Acting Head of Public Affairs, Moyosola Adesina, the Council expressed deep concern over the emotional tone of the report but firmly rejected the insinuation that results are withheld arbitrarily or without just cause.

WAEC clarified that results are only withheld when there is a credible report of examination malpractice or irregularity, in accordance with the Council’s established rules and legal framework.

“The Council does not withhold candidates’ results arbitrarily. When a report of malpractice is received, affected results are placed on hold pending a full investigation,” the statement read. “Candidates are notified and given the opportunity to respond via the WAEC Notice of Examination Malpractice (NEM) portal.”

According to WAEC, this portal is announced during every examination result release and is publicized through the Council’s website, official press statements, and social media platforms. It serves as the official channel through which accused candidates can defend themselves or provide explanations.

WAEC further emphasized that it is a law-abiding and professional body committed to maintaining the integrity of public examinations. It reiterated its commitment to following due process in handling all reported cases of exam malpractice, guided by the Council’s regulations and relevant laws.

“As a world-class examining body, WAEC will continue to use its best endeavours to ensure fair and accurate assessment while upholding the values of transparency, accountability, and justice,” the Council said.

While WAEC did not mention the specific case referenced in the publication, it encouraged concerned parties to follow the proper channels for redress and ensure they engage the Council through official means.

The issue has drawn public sympathy and renewed debate around the mental health impact of delayed examination results on students, with some calling for quicker resolution timelines, especially in cases involving minors.

WAEC concluded by reaffirming its commitment to the educational goals of its stakeholders and the continuous improvement of its processes to serve Nigerian candidates better.

FG Backs Pretty Okafor as PMAN President Amidst Leadership Crisis

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FG Backs Pretty Okafor as PMAN President Amidst Leadership Crisis

The Federal Government has formally reaffirmed Pretty Okafor as the legitimate National President of the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria, PMAN, marking a decisive stance in the ongoing leadership crisis that has rocked the musicians’ union for months.

In an official letter dated May 5, 2025, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment recognized the outcome of PMAN’s National Delegates Conference held on October 24, 2023, at the Airport Hotel, Ikeja, where Okafor and other executives were duly elected.

The Ministry also acknowledged the association’s headquarters at its Lekki Secretariat, solidifying the government’s support for constitutional order within the organization.

The Ministry’s position followed extensive investigations by the Nigeria Police Force, which cleared Okafor of all allegations ranging from forgery to financial misconduct.

At a press conference held Wednesday in Lagos, Okafor unveiled the Police Investigation Report, describing it as a victory for transparency, rule of law, and the integrity of unions operating under government charters.

The Police Report revealed that all actions taken to suspend Okafor while he was on official duty in Spain were illegal and violated PMAN’s constitution. More troubling were findings of a forged court order used to freeze the president’s personal bank accounts—an act traced to a rogue police officer and a dismissed court clerk in Niger State.

The report also discredited a fraudulent consent judgment (Suit No. NICN/LA/360/2024) orchestrated outside Lagos, which sought to give legal cover to the coup plotters. Okafor has since initiated legal proceedings to quash the judgment and press charges against all conspirators.

The Ministry of Labour’s intervention is being widely seen as a necessary assertion of federal oversight over trade unions and professional associations, particularly those with national coverage and economic significance.

Speaking at the press conference, Okafor noted that: “The Federal Government’s recognition reaffirms the rule of law. It’s not just a win for me, it’s a win for every Nigerian musician who believes in structure, progress, and due process.”

Sources within the Ministry confirmed that the government is committed to preventing the hijack of legitimate institutions by internal saboteurs or external interests, especially where millions of naira in investments and member contributions are at stake.

The leadership tussle, according to Okafor, was largely fueled by attempts to seize control of PMAN’s growing portfolio of assets. Under his administration, the association has made unprecedented gains, including, acquisition of a National Secretariat, the Launch of PMAN FM, a digital broadcast platform and the commencement of the Abuja Monaco Project, a major property development

Investigations into the Monaco Project revealed that its former managers, Olusco Heritage & Investment Ltd, unlawfully collected over ₦350 million from subscribers without delivering on project milestones. These findings have prompted the NEC to place PMAN’s assets under a government-regulated Asset Management Company.

The Federal Government’s recognition of Okafor is expected to calm tensions and signal a path forward for the embattled association. PMAN’s National Executive Council has also removed members involved in the illegal attempts to take over the union and is currently restructuring operations to protect member interests.

“We will work hand-in-hand with the government, regulatory bodies, and musicians to reposition PMAN as a model for union leadership in Nigeria,” Okafor said.

LAGOS DEEPENS GLOBAL PUSH FOR ADIRE, AFRICAN FASHION

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LAGOS DEEPENS GLOBAL PUSH FOR ADIRE, AFRICAN FASHION

In order to spotlight indigenous fashion and textiles on the global stage, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka has hosted a high-level meeting with Her Majesty Queen Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, founder of Africa Fashion Week London and Nigeria, alongside the British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Jonny Baxter.

The strategic engagement focused on advancing the cultural and economic potential of Adire textiles, an iconic Yoruba fabric, as a major export and symbol of Nigeria’s rich heritage.

Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka, during the high-level meeting, reaffirmed Lagos State’s unwavering support for creative platforms that empower designers, preserve cultural identity, and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy.

She emphasised that such partnerships are vital in amplifying African narratives and positioning Lagos as the heartbeat of fashion and creativity on the continent.

LAGOS DEEPENS GLOBAL PUSH FOR ADIRE, AFRICAN FASHION

“As the fashion and creative capital of Nigeria, Lagos remains a catalyst for innovation, style, and enterprise. We are proud to support initiatives that promote our cultural assets and inspire the next generation of creatives,” she said.

The Commissioner described the meeting as a major step forward in promoting Adire and African fashion globally while also underscoring Lagos State’s commitment to cultural preservation and creative industry growth.

During the meeting, there were discussions on the celebration of the 15th edition of Africa Fashion Week London, a milestone achievement for the global African fashion movement.

JUNE 12: CAPPA Tasks FG on Democracy Dividends

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JUNE 12: CAPPA Tasks FG on Democracy Dividends

The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA has asked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to deliver the long-promised fruits of democracy to Nigerians, decrying deepening frustration among citizens, who, despite decades of democratic rule, continue to battle grinding poverty, chronic insecurity, and bad governance.

In a statement marking both the 32nd commemoration of the June 12, 1993, election and the 26th anniversary of uninterrupted civilian rule in Nigeria, CAPPA noted that despite quadrennial elections since 1999 and some incremental gains, the country is yet to translate its ballot exercises into “real progress that lifts citizens out of destitution, enshrines their rights and choices, and sparks hope. “

Instead, the organisation argued that public institutions have “fumbled on stewardship of collective resources and left basic services in tatters, consequently widening the trust gap between government and the governed.”

“Social and economic poverty has become pervasive,” the statement observed. “If anything, the surge of youth-led protests across the country in recent times, especially against bad governance, reflects just how much, Nigerians are teetering on the brink of survival.”

It added that essential services such as public water, shelter, education, health care, and electricity remain inaccessible to many, even as ill-conceived privatisation drives have impacted costs beyond the reach of ordinary citizens.

“In 2024, nearly 130 million Nigerians lived below the poverty line, and another 13 million are reportedly set to join them amid today’s cost-of-living shock,” said Akinbode Oluwafemi, CAPPA’s Executive Director. “Our national circumstances are an outrage for a country blessed with abundant mineral resources, fertile land, and human talent.”

CAPPA also warned that Nigeria’s key institutions and basic freedoms are under siege. It said that the country’s anti-corruption agencies, legislature, and even the judiciary continue to wobble under political pressure, with their independence compromised by back-room appointments and political interferences.

Furthermore, CAPPA condemned what it described as the “increasing actions of state governments to use court orders to gag free speech and force peaceful protests into designated centres.” It dubbed the trend as an unsettling tactic and aberration that Lagos and Ogun States, and even the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, have latched on to in recent times.

The organisation insisted that activists, journalists, students, unionists, and citizens alike must enjoy unfettered freedom of expression, warning that any violence against them for exercising their constitutional rights constitutes a flagrant assault on democracy.

It demanded the withdrawal of “trumped-up terrorism charges” against young Nigerians arrested during the August 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests, and urged the restoration of “open, meaningful spaces for civic engagement,” stressing that democracy is “the lived right to speak, assemble, and hold power to account every single day.”

Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, CAPPA warned that Nigeria’s electoral environment remains plagued by partisan meddling.

It welcomed proposals before the National Assembly to amend the 1999 Constitution or the Electoral Act 2022 to ensure a fair electoral process come 2027, calling them “vital opportunities” for lawmakers, the Presidency, and all lovers of democracy to insulate INEC from political capture and empower genuine citizen participation.

CAPPA drummed support for enhancing INEC’s autonomy and backed demands to remove the Presidency’s power to appoint electoral commissioners, noting that this safeguard is essential to protect the Commission from political manipulation.

It added that the impending end of the current INEC leadership’s tenure in November 2025 offers a window for selecting a successor through an open, merit-based democratic process, free of partisan strings. “Failure to act risks electoral cycles rigged from the outset,” the statement warned.

On this basis, it urged the National Assembly to conclude its constitutional and electoral reform deliberations in 2025 to avoid a last-minute rush. CAPPA also appealed to lawmakers to ensure that final reforms institutionalise public accountability and participatory governance.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and lawmakers must guarantee conditions that enable eligible voters at home and abroad to cast their ballots unhindered by logistical or structural failures.

“Ambiguities in result-transmission modalities in the current electoral act must also be resolved, and real-time electronic transmission of results upheld to bolster transparency and trust in our elections,” the CAPPA statement concluded.

NIMC Enrolls Nearly 60,000 Inmates, Moves to Ward-Level NIN Registration Nationwide

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NIMC Pushes Digital Public Infrastructure to Improve Service Delivery, National Security

In a major push to ensure national identity inclusivity, the National Identity Management Commission, NIMC has announced the successful enrollment and issuance of National Identification Numbers, NINs to 59,786 inmates across correctional centres in Nigeria.

The milestone was achieved in collaboration with the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), as part of a broader effort to bring every Nigerian and legal resident into the national identity ecosystem.

The initiative is aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes the expansion of digital identity coverage as a pillar for inclusive governance and social service delivery.

According to NIMC, 74 percent of inmates nationwide have now been enrolled and issued their NINs, with efforts ongoing to cover the remaining eligible inmates.

The Commission expressed its appreciation for the continued support of the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Mr. Nwakuche Ndidi; as well as the management and staff of the NCoS.

Speaking on the development, the Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of NIMC, Engr. (Dr.) Abisoye Coker-Odusote, emphasized the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that no demographic or location is left behind in the national identity drive.

“The successful enrollment of nearly 60,000 inmates demonstrates our resolve to leave no one behind. Identity is a right and a foundation for accessing essential services and justice. This achievement paves the way for full digital inclusion of underserved populations,” Dr. Coker-Odusote said.

In a further expansion of its outreach, NIMC is now set to commence ward-level enrollment nationwide, taking the identity registration process directly to communities.

The ward-level initiative is a central component of the Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to strengthen the integrity of the National Identity System and accelerate grassroots access to services.

Dr. Coker-Odusote added that NIMC will partner with key stakeholders, including local governments, traditional institutions, civil society groups, and community-based organizations, to drive the ward-level exercise.

“We are building a robust, people-centered identity infrastructure. Every ward will be touched, and every Nigerian and legal resident will be given the opportunity to be identified and included,” she affirmed.

With this latest development, NIMC continues to play a critical role in enabling access to social programs, digital finance, security databases, and national planning tools.

The Commission has reiterated that stakeholders at all levels must join hands to actualize the vision of a truly inclusive identity system for Nigeria.

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