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Governor Soludo Constructs Double Lane Trans-Nkisi Boulevard, G.R.A, Onitsha

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Governor Soludo Constructs Double Lane Trans-Nkisi Boulevard, G.R.A, Onitsha

Governor Charles Soludo has embarked on the construction of the double lane trans-Nkisi boulevard, G.R.A, Onitsha, in continuation of his ongoing regeneration drive in transforming Anambra State into one smart mega city.

The infrastructure and transformational project of Governor Soludo are evident in the newly commissioned Government House and Lodge, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which comprises the Governor’s residence, the Deputy Governor’s lodge, the Governor’s Office and 24 other structures, which include a world-class amphitheatre and auditorium.

Others are the sprawling Solution Fun City in Awka, designed for recreational activities of the people, and an eight-lane road named after Emeka Anyaoku, the former Commonwealth Secretary General and an indigene of the state.

Achievements of the Soludo’s administration are also evident in the numerous road constructions connecting various communities and flyovers in Anambra, the building of new general hospitals with telemedicine equipment and skilled healthcare personnel, the construction of smart schools with free education and employment of over 8,200 teachers, and the digitalization of the state’s judicial system.

Others are towns’ regeneration and cities with modern drainage systems to ease flooding and erosion, providing pipe-borne water to communities across Anambra, effective security operations such as the state’s security system, Agunaechemba, and Operation Udo Ga-Achi, which has restored peace to the state, and youth empowerment schemes.

The initiative signposts Governor Soludo’s infrastructure development, a cornerstone of his administration’s agenda. It stems from a broader vision to build a network of quality roads connecting every part of Anambra and securing a better tomorrow for the citizens.

FG Reconvenes Inter-Ministerial Meeting to Accelerate Implementation of Nigeria-China FOCAC Agreements

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FG Reconvenes Inter-Ministerial Meeting to Accelerate Implementation of Nigeria-China FOCAC Agreements
L-R Ms. Judy Melifonwu - Head, International Relations, NCSP Mr. Ayo Sotirin - MD. Bank of Agriculture Mr. Joseph Tegbe - DG, NCSP Amb. Janet Olisa - Director of Regions, Min. of Foreign Affairs

In a renewed effort to fast-track the implementation of strategic agreements with the People’s Republic of China, the Federal Government of Nigeria has reconvened a high-level inter-ministerial follow-up meeting.

The session, jointly organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), focused on reviewing progress and resolving challenges related to outcomes from the 2024 FOCAC Summit and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s historic state visit to China.

The meeting, chaired by Ambassador Janet Olisa, Director of Regions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, brought together key representatives from Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) involved in the bilateral cooperation. MDAs provided situation reports and outlined steps to strengthen collaboration for the successful implementation of signed agreements.

Ambassador Olisa reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to leveraging its strategic partnership with China for inclusive economic development. She emphasized the urgency of converting memoranda of understanding (MOUs) into actionable projects that deliver tangible benefits to Nigerians.

Discussions focused on resolving legal and institutional bottlenecks, aligning implementation strategies, and clarifying access modalities to Nigeria’s targeted share of China’s $51 billion pledge for green infrastructure development across Africa. Nigeria aims to secure at least $10 billion in funding for priority sectors including agriculture, digital economy, and critical infrastructure.

Director-General of NCSP, Mr. Joseph Tegbe, reiterated the agency’s role in coordinating implementation efforts and called on MDAs to be proactive. “This partnership offers Nigeria a unique opportunity to unlock investments that will drive job creation, economic diversification, and long-term prosperity,” he stated.

Resolutions from the meeting included harmonization of legal frameworks, alignment of project roadmaps, budget optimization, and the establishment of technical committees to accelerate implementation.

A follow-up review session has been scheduled in the coming weeks to track progress on agreed action items, while the various MDAs continue their working meeting to resolve challenges.

The Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership remains a cornerstone of the Renewed Hope Agenda, complementing China’s Belt and Road Initiative to catalyze transformative development in Nigeria.

OGUN POLICE COMMAND ASSURES RESIDENTS, VISITORS ADEQUATE SECURITY AHEAD NATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL

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Ogun Police Arrest Cultist in Igbesa, Launch Manhunt for Accomplices

The Ogun State Police Command has assured residents of top-notch security as the state plays host to the 22nd National Sports Festival “Gateway Games Ogun 2024”.

Ogun State received the” Torch of Unity” of the National Sports Festival on Thursday, 16th May 2025 ahead of the commencement of the festival in the capital city of Abeokuta on Sunday, 18th May, 2025.

In a statement by Police Public Relations Officer, Ogun State Police Command Headquarters, Eleweran. CSP Omolola Odutola, anipr, the Command says it is committed to providing a safe environment for visitors and residents alike, as a robust security architecture has been put in place across the state.

The Command also says the deployment of conventional police, tactical teams and assets aims to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable experience for all participants and spectators who will grace the occasion.

Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo Ph.D, reiterates the command’s commitment to always prioritize the security of the good people of Ogun State and also assure a hitch-free festival.

For emergency assistance, residents and visitors are to contact the command through the following numbers: 09159578888, 09062837609, 09120141706, 09151027369 or 07084972994

They can also reach out via the command Social Media Platforms
X: @OgunPoliceNG
Instagram: Ogunpolice_ng
Facebook: Ogun Command
YouTube: @embracepeace

LASEPA Restates Efforts to Ensure Responsible Noise Management at 10th Edition of Noiseless Lagos Campaign

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LASEPA Restates Efforts to Ensure Responsible Noise Management at 10th Edition of Noiseless Lagos Campaign

The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, LASEPA, has emphasized its efforts to guide communities across the State toward responsible noise management.

LASEPA’s General Manager, Dr. Tunde Ajayi, stated this in his remarks at the 10th edition of the Noiseless Lagos awareness campaign, an initiative aimed at promoting a quieter, healthier environment across the state.

According to him: “We are guiding them very carefully in a way that makes them more deliberate with protecting their environment and reducing noise pollution in their community”.

Dr. Ajayi also highlighted the availability of free noise measurement applications on Android and Apple platforms, encouraging residents to monitor noise levels independently.

LASEPA Restates Efforts to Ensure Responsible Noise Management at 10th Edition of Noiseless Lagos Campaign

He also reiterated the agency’s multi-step enforcement approach for noise regulation, which includes an initial warning, sealing of premises for non-compliance, confiscation of equipment, registration of offenders and an incremental fine for repeat violations.

On her part, the Director of Noise Control at LASEPA, Abosede Natufe,
praised Dr. Ajayi’s visionary leadership, noting his commitment to international standards in environmental management.

She also encouraged attendees to continue advocating for a quieter and healthier Lagos.

“Together, we can make a difference for a greater Lagos where less noise makes more sense,” Natufe concluded, reaffirming LASEPA’s mission to foster a peaceful urban environment.”

In a practical demonstration of its commitment to public health, LASEPA conducted free hearing tests and distributed earplugs to participants, further promoting awareness of the health risks associated with noise pollution.

Blacktalker reports that the event with the theme: “Curbing Noise Pollution in a Mega City,” drew the active participation of students from religious bodies, owners of event centres and recreational parks, security agencies, CDC and LCDA representatives across the state.

LASEPA Restates Efforts to Ensure Responsible Noise Management at 10th Edition of Noiseless Lagos Campaign

Mentees, Associates Honour Prof. Abiodun Oluwole with Air Quality Monitoring Station at Igbobi

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Mentees, Associates Honour Prof. Abiodun Oluwole with Air Quality Monitoring Station at Igbobi

Mentees and Associates of one of Nigeria’s Renowned Physicists, Emeritus Professor Abiodun Francis Oluwole, have sited an Air Quality Monitoring Station within the premises of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos, in honour of his extensive contributions to environmental management and air quality research in Nigeria.

Blacktalker reports that the Emeritus Professor A.F. Oluwole Air Quality Monitoring Station is expected to enhance air quality monitoring in the country, providing accurate data on various air pollutants and supporting policy development.

In a keynote address, the Minister for the Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, reinforced the federal government’s commitment to tackling air pollution and providing support for initiatives that aim to enhance air quality monitoring in the country.

Lawal, who was represented by the federal controller of the environment, Lagos, Olabimpe Adeniake, noted that Nigeria is currently the tenth most polluted country in Africa and the eighteenth most polluted globally, with the major contributors as emissions from construction activities, industrial processes, power plants and transportation.

He said the newly inaugurated station is expected to support the government’s ongoing efforts to implement a national clean air programme and foster a science-based approach to policymaking.

The project coordinator, Emeritus Professor Bode Asubiojo, expressed pride in the station’s dedication to Professor A.F. Oluwole, given his extensive contributions to environmental management and air quality research in the Country.

He stressed the critical role of the station in monitoring air pollution, noting that it provides continuous data to detect harmful pollutant levels, allowing for timely interventions.

Mentees, Associates Honour Prof. Abiodun Oluwole with Air Quality Monitoring Station at Igbobi

When asked about the choice of Lagos for the station, Professor Asubiojo highlighted the city’s status as Nigeria’s economic hub and one of the nation’s most densely populated areas, where vehicular emissions significantly contribute to air pollution. He also noted the secure location provided by the orthopedic hospital, ensuring the facility’s safety.

On the maintenance, Professor Asubiojo assured of a sustinable maintainance culture and protection from vandals through the robust collaboration with the Ministry for the Environment and other stakeholders.

Earlier in his remarks, Acting Chief Medical Director of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Dr. Wakil Lawal, extended gratitude to the project’s stakeholders, mentees, associates, partners and contributors for bringing the vision to life.

“This is a promise to our children and the generations to come. We must protect the air we breathe and maintain this facility for the good of all.”

“With this initiative, authorities can make informed decisions, create effective policies, and implement action plans that reduce the burden of environmental diseases,” he added.

The Chief Technical Officer of Scientific Energy and Environmental Management Systems (SEEMS) Ltd., Dr. Olusesan Joshua, who led the technical implementation, highlighted that the station represents a transition from conventional gas analyzers to sensor-based technology.

According to Dr. Joshua, a remote terminal would be hosted at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, under the joint management of the Environmental Health Research Group and the Institute for Ecology and Environmental Studies.

The honouree and Renowned Nigerian Physicist, Abiodun Oluwole, who was represented by his brother, Mr. Akin Oluwole, at the event, lauded his mentees and associates for their dedication in bringing the project to life, emphasizing that their efforts reflected a commitment to a shared vision of environmental sustainability.

CAPPA Slams Lagos Water MoU, Demands Transparency, Public Accountability

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CAPPA Condemns Police Crackdown on Lagos Demolition Protest

The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA has expressed concerns over the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Lagos State Government and the Belstar/ENKA consortium, citing a lack of transparency and public involvement in the process.

The MoU, aimed at rehabilitating and expanding Lagos’ water infrastructure, was announced by the government as a step toward improving water supply across the state. However, CAPPA says the agreement was finalised behind closed doors, without public consultation or legislative scrutiny

”That this agreement was conceived and signed in secrecy, then simply announced, is an affront to democratic governance,” said CAPPA Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi.

The organisation raised key questions about the identity and track record of the contractors, the scope and cost of the project, the role of the Lagos Water Corporation and the possibility of future water privatisation.

CAPPA also expressed concern over the involvement of the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), warning that such foreign-backed deals often prioritise corporate profit over public interest.

Calling the MoU “deeply troubling,” CAPPA demanded that the Lagos State Government, publish the full text of the agreement; clarify the project’s financial and operational terms and commit to keeping all water infrastructure publicly owned and controlled.”

”Water is not just a commodity—it is a human right. Decisions affecting its access and affordability must be open, participatory, and accountable,” the group stated.

CAPPA urged the government to halt any moves toward privatisation and reinvest in strengthening public water systems through transparent, citizen-focused governance.

Wema Bank Training Institute, Purple Academy Shines At GlobalCCU Awards, Paris

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Wema Bank Training Institute, Purple Academy Shines At GlobalCCU Awards, Paris

Wema Bank, Nigeria’s oldest indigenous bank has been announced the gold winner of the 2025 Global Council of Corporate Universities Awards (GlobalCCU) Award for ‘Best Corporate University Culture’.

Held in Paris, on May 12, 2025, the awards recognized the bank’s training institute, Purple Academy, for its excellence and strategic impact in driving learning culture.

Hosted every two years and considered the gold standard for corporate education, the GlobalCCU Awards played host to the world’s most innovative and high-impact corporate universities, evaluating nominees through a rigorous multi-phase process led by an international jury.

The award also celebrates corporate universities that demonstrate measurable value for people, business, society, and the planet.

For the 2025 edition, Wema Bank’s Training Institute, Purple Academy was shortlisted alongside leading institutions from across the world, standing out for its transformative work in human capital development, strategic business alignment, and learning innovation.

Coming in the same year the bank celebrated its 80th anniversary, this recognition reinforces Wema Bank’s legacy as a forward-thinking institution committed to building people, pioneering innovation, and redefining the future of work in Nigeria and beyond.

“This win is more than just a global recognition of our learning strategy as a bank, it’s a powerful validation of what we have stood for over the past 80 years,” said Moruf Oseni, Managing Director/CEO of Wema Bank.

“At Wema, our transformation has always started with our people. Purple Academy is one of our promises in motion to equip every member of our workforce with the tools to grow, lead, and innovate as we evolve and adapt to our environment. To be globally recognized in this milestone year is a proud moment for us and everyone who has believed in our journey,” He concluded.

Speaking on why Purple Academy deserves the award, the Founder and Chairman of the GlobalCCU Awards, Annick Renaud-Coulon, shared, “Purple Academy is an outstanding Corporate University that is clearly the Best Corporate University Globally for driving a Learning Culture.

It is a Corporate University that transmits, respects and preserves the Wema Bank cultural heritage and effectively evolves it as a principle which drives efficient actions. The diversity of its employees generates a high level of empathy among its stakeholders.

The way it honors diversity and inclusion is brilliant to see and their leaders are so engaging when featured in internal videos. They are not only representing a great company, but also the culture of their country in the best possible way.”

Wema Bank’s Training Institute, Purple Academy, launched as a corporate university in 2022, has a beacon of learning excellence and innovation, that empowers employees at every stage of their career. The corporate university offers a dynamic blend of immersive learning experiences, personalized development paths, and forward-thinking content that addresses the evolving demands of work, life, and leadership.

Through structured programs across its five key schools, including Culture, Leadership, Banking, Business, and the SME Business School, Purple Academy nurtures talent with a future-ready approach. From onboarding new hires through the Bankers-in-Training School to shaping high-impact leaders, the Academy remains committed to investing in people, promoting growth, and fostering a vibrant workplace culture aligned with Wema Bank’s legacy of innovation and excellence.

As Purple Academy continues to scale new heights and expand its influence across sectors and borders, this GlobalCCU recognition signals yet another bold chapter in Wema Bank’s story. It tells a story of a bank rooted in people, purpose, and the pursuit of excellence .

FIRSTBANK RETAINS RETAIL DOMINANCE BY BOOSTING BUSINESSES WITH TEMPORARY OVERDRAFT PRODUCT

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FirstBank Highlights Step by Step Process to Install, Register FirstMobile App

By Tosin Ajayi

Published by Blacktalker

In a dynamic and often unpredictable financial landscape like Nigeria, the ability to access funds at critical moments makes all the difference.  For entrepreneurs, financial agility is often the key to unlocking growth and success. With fluctuating prices and unexpected financial policies, many businesses in recent times have found themselves in need of short-term financial solutions to keep their business running smoothly.

Recognising this challenge, First Bank of Nigeria Limited, a pioneer in innovative financial solutions, redesigned the Retail Temporary Overdraft (RTOD) as a lifeline to empower businesses with swift, flexible cash flow support that can significantly empower business owners, allowing them to navigate the complexities of business management with greater ease. 

The Retail Temporary Overdraft (RTOD) is aimed at providing customers with flexible temporary overdraft to meet urgent business financial needs.  The features of RTOD include:

  • Access up to N5million monthly subject to 10% of 6 months credit turnover from sales
  • Interest rate is competitive and subject to changes in money market realities
  • No tangible collateral is required
  • Facility tenor is 30 days, and this can be accessed up to 12 times in one year.

The benefits of this Facility include assistance in growing business volumes which position SMEs for higher facility limits. It is useful in emergency situations to meet urgent business needs. No tangible collateral is required to get the loan, and it is available throughout the year once the existing facility is repaid within 30 days.  The interest rate is cheaper due to the shorter facility tenor.

SMEs with regular cash flow who have maintained an account with FirstBank for a minimum period of six [6] months or 12 months in any other commercial bank are eligible for this facility. The amount drawable on this facility is N5million monthly, subject to 10% of the customers’ last 6 months credit turnover.

Repayment is automatically deducted from (Sales or business proceeds) incoming receivables into borrower’s account within the stipulated time. To apply, customers need to show interest by contacting the FirstBank SME advisor or apply online by submitting the required documents. Approval could be as fast as 24 hours in cases where the customer fulfills all criteria.

To ensure that customers can maximise given opportunities and enjoy maximum turnover, the loan figure is N5 million globally for qualified customers who show a good track record of prompt repayment and also meet the stipulated criteria.

There are many customers who have been able to turn their businesses around with the help of this facility, such as Mr. Isola, the prime mover of Champion Five Limited, a food retail vendor who approached FirstBank for funding to augment his working capital and increase production. 

The bank provided a N5million overdraft facility with a 30-day tenure which was made available to him for 12 months.  With the funding, Champion Five Limited was able to increase production by 50% and expand their customer base as well as employ more staff. The company has continued to grow in leaps and bounds.

FirstBank’s Retail Temporary Overdraft product has been so impactful to the businesses of both male and female entrepreneurs. This contributed to the bank’s achievements, where it was honored with two highly prestigious awards at the Asian Banker Excellence in Retail Financial Services International Awards 2024.

The awards, presented by The Asian Banker, crowned FirstBank as both the Best SME Bank in Nigeria and the Best SME Bank in Africa, a testament to the institution’s commitment to empowering Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and driving retail financial excellence across the continent.

The Asian Banker awards are widely recognized as one of the most competitive and rigorous in the global banking industry. The evaluation process is stringent, focusing on various key performance indicators, including service delivery, customer experience, financial performance, and innovation in retail banking.

With an extensive panel of experts examining each institution’s track record, FirstBank’s recognition as the leading SME Bank in both Nigeria and Africa signals its outstanding leadership and vision in the African financial industry.

As the backbone of the Nigerian and African economies, SMEs play a crucial role in driving employment, innovation, and economic growth. However, they often face significant hurdles, especially in securing adequate financial support. This is where FirstBank steps in, not just as a traditional banking partner, but as an enabler and advocate for the sector.

With its range of SME-focused financial products, from deposit products, loan packages to tailored advisory services, FirstBank has distinguished itself as a leader in providing SMEs the resources they need to thrive.

The bank’s FirstSME initiative is designed to support businesses in accessing capital, managing cash flow, and navigating the complexities of business development in a competitive market. This commitment is what earned FirstBank top recognition at the Asian Banker awards.

Fidelity Bank Reclaims Trillion-Naira Market Cap as Stock Rises to 21Naira

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Fidelity Bank Grows Q1 Gross Earnings by 38% to N434.95bn

Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has reentered the trillion-naira market capitalisation club, after its share price rose by 5.3%, climbing from ₦19.95 to ₦21.00 on May 13, 2025, according to data from the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX).

This latest development also brings the total number of Nigerian companies with a trillion-naira market capitalisation to 19.

According to a report published on Techcabal website, the bank had previously dropped below the threshold on May 12, marking another fluctuation in its valuation.

Earlier in the year, Fidelity Bank Plc first reached the trillion-naira milestone on April 4, 2025, joining tier-1 banks such as Zenith Bank, Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO), Access Holdings, First HoldCo, and United Bank for Africa (UBA). However, it fell below the mark on April 7 before reclaiming its position on April 23.

With 50.2 billion outstanding shares, the valuation reflects renewed investor confidence and signals Fidelity’s potential transition to tier-1 status. Analysts believe the bank is well-positioned to meet the Central Bank’s ₦500 billion ($311.9 million) minimum capital requirement through equity.

“The strong Q1 results suggest continued upward momentum in its stock,” said Nabila Mohammed, an analyst at Chapel Hill Denham. “This could boost investor confidence and help sustain its valuation.”

The stock has surged 141% in the past year, up from ₦8.70 in May 2024. Meksley Nwagboh, Head of Brand and Communications, attributed the rally to a 189% rise in 2024 after-tax profit—the highest among Nigeria’s top 10 banks.

That momentum carried into 2025, with Q1 after-tax profit soaring 190% to ₦91 billion ($56.8 million), driven by higher interest income, forex gains, and cost efficiencies.

“Lower credit losses helped boost net interest income,” said Olamide, a Lagos-based banking analyst. “Combined with solid full-year results and dividend expectations, the bank’s fundamentals are attracting investors.”

A report from Proshare noted the NGX Banking Index gained 6.96% in Q1 2025, driven by recapitalisation efforts that injected ₦2.4 trillion into the sector. Fidelity was the NGX’s third most-traded stock between February and May.

According to Mohammed, Fidelity’s high net interest margin and low-cost deposit base enhance its appeal. On February 8, it completed the first phase of its capital raise with 237% oversubscription. CEO Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe confirmed plans to conclude the next phase before H2 2025.

The bank’s Vision 2025 agenda includes expanding internationally—starting with its 2023 acquisition of Union Bank UK—and securing tier-1 status.

Afrinvest projects continued growth, with gross earnings and pre-tax profit forecasted to rise 46% and 49.4% respectively in 2025, reaching ₦1.5 trillion and ₦415.4 billion. The firm maintains a 12-month target price of ₦21.60 for the stock.

With robust earnings, a solid recapitalisation strategy, and growing investor interest, Fidelity is positioning itself as a strong contender in Nigeria’s top banking tier.

Social Entrepreneur Leads Push for Skills-Based Empowerment in Nigeria

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Toluwase Olaniyan Bags Nomination for AfBC Ubuntu Social Enterprise Excellence Award

In an economy where academic degrees no longer guarantee employment, social entrepreneur and Executive Director of the EGO Foundation, Toluwase Olaniyan has called for skills-based empowerment across the country.

Olaniyan recalled that he has dedicated the last decade to equipping young Nigerians with practical, employable skills through initiatives that target digital literacy, vocational training, and youth development.

” My journey began in Zaria, Kaduna State, where I organised grassroots training sessions aimed at underserved communities.”

Today, he leads national programs like GhettoTechStars, SheEnabled, SkillUP and Enterprise Corner, each designed to bridge the gap between education and the real-world skills required in today’s job market.

“Skills are the new currency,” Olaniyan said. “And our young people must be equipped to compete not just locally, but globally.”

His work includes targeted initiatives like GlobalHer, which provides tech training for young women, and Project YIP (Young Innovators Program), a platform that connects post-secondary students with hands-on tech experience. The programs, he noted, have reached over 25,000 individuals, due to strategic partnerships with the organisations like Access Bank, and the Vocational education boards across the country.

Olaniyan explained that he is expanding his efforts further with the launch of ‘Workskills’, an initiative aimed at scaling vocational training nationwide.

He is also introducing the National Student Entrepreneurship program which includes a one million naira grant to support student-led innovations.

“By challenging outdated perceptions of vocational education and promoting it as a viable path to success, w are reshaping how Nigerian youth view their future. The goal is to make opportunity accessible to everyone,” the executive director said.

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