Home Blog Page 14

Nigerians Invited to Apply for UK’s 2026 Chevening Scholarship Programme

coic
-
0
Nigerians Invited to Apply for UK’s 2026 Chevening Scholarship Programme

The United Kingdom Government has encouraged Nigerians with leadership potential and a passion for driving sustainable development to apply for the 2026 Chevening Scholarships, describing the programme as a platform for developing the next generation of global leaders.

The call was made as applications for the fully funded postgraduate scholarship programme were officially opened, with interested candidates expected to submit their applications between August 4 and October 6, 2026.

The scholarship gives successful applicants an opportunity to pursue one-year master’s degree programmes at leading universities in the UK and to become part of an international network of professionals committed to solving global issues, a statement from the British High Commission Communications Office, signed by Onyinye Madu, said.

Head of the Scholarships Unit at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), Emma Hennessey, said: “Chevening is looking beyond academic excellence to identify people who can make a lasting contribution to their communities.

“Chevening is seeking out outstanding people who are prepared to collaborate with the UK to help create a more resilient, prosperous and sustainable future. “We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive cohort of global future leaders and are especially interested in hearing from under-represented groups,” she said.

Read Also: NEC Gives Nod to Gazelle Refinancing, Opening Access to $3 Billion Liquidity

Hennessey explained that the scholarship awards leadership potential, influence and the ability to build meaningful networks and noted that successful applicants are expected to contribute to solving shared international challenges.

“Our scholars and fellows are chosen not only for their achievements, but also for their potential for leadership, their ability to build meaningful connections, and their commitment to creating a lasting effect in their communities and the world,” she said.

The British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter, also spoke, saying Chevening is more than a world-class education but an opportunity to become part of a lifelong global network of changemakers.

“Chevening is so much more than a scholarship to study in the UK. “It’s a chance to get involved with a global network of extraordinary leaders committed to driving positive change in their communities and beyond,” Baxter said.

He urged Nigerians with innovative ideas and a commitment to enhancing the Nigeria-UK relationship to take advantage of the opportunity.

“If you have a clear vision to make a meaningful impact in areas of shared priority between Nigeria and the UK, I encourage you to apply and take the next step in your leadership journey.”

The British High Commission urged prospective applicants to check the eligibility requirements of the programme and make strong applications which clearly demonstrate leadership experience, networking skills and a commitment to public service.

Since its establishment in 1983, Chevening has supported over 60,000 professionals from more than 140 countries and territories, demonstrating the UK’s commitment to developing future leaders through education and international cooperation.

NEC Gives Nod to Gazelle Refinancing, Opening Access to $3 Billion Liquidity

coic
-
0
NEC Gives Nod to Gazelle Refinancing, Opening Access to $3 Billion Liquidity

The National Economic Council (NEC) has approved the refinancing of the US$3.3 billion Project Gazelle Pre-Export Finance Facility with a new US$4.5 billion facility, called Project Gazelle 2.

The approval allows The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) to refinance the balance of the original 2023 facility of about US$1.5 billion and unlock an additional US$3 billion liquidity to shore up the country’s external reserves and support the fiscal and infrastructure priorities of the Nigerian Government.

The decision was taken at the 159th meeting of the National Economic Council held virtually Monday.

The Chairman of the Council, Vice President Kashim Shettima, presided over the meeting.

The project received the approval of NEC after a presentation on the strategic importance of the project by the Minister of Finance, Dr Taiwo Oyedele, who was represented by Vice President Shettima.

The Council acknowledged the importance of unlocking additional liquidity for the federation and recommitted to the successful implementation of the initiative.

Dr Oyedele, who spoke at a press briefing after the meeting, said the refinancing had been structured on more favourable terms than the original facility. “This includes a reduction in the volume of pledged crude oil from 90,000 barrels per day (bpd) to approximately 78,750 bpd, a 12.5 per cent reduction.

The new arrangement, he said, would release an additional 11,250 bpd to the federation while reducing the volume of crude pledged by NNPC Limited.

According to the minister, the refinancing will increase liquidity on better terms, release resources for strategic national priorities and strengthen the structure of financing in the country.

Earlier, in his opening remarks, Vice President Shettima had called for a responsive, scalable and data-driven social protection policy to address multidimensional poverty in Nigeria.

“Government policies are often felt before they are seen, showing up in the prices of food, the state of hospitals, the results in schools, the pressures on families, the confidence of investors, and the ambitions of state governments,” he said.

He urged members of the Council to ensure all decisions reassure Nigerians that their government is in tune with the country’s needs and is committed to responding with competence, compassion and purpose.

Cynthia Morgan Accuses Former Boss Jude Okoye of Wickedness

coic
-
0
Cynthia Morgan Accuses Former Boss Jude Okoye of Wickedness

Nigerian singer Cynthia Ikponmwenosa Morgan has opened up on her past experience with music executive Jude Okoye amid the current dispute involving the Okoye brothers.

The singer is said to have gone on Instagram to express her opinions, alleging her former label boss was responsible for what she called ‘toxic and unfair’ behaviour.

She said she was aware of some of the issues Jude’s brother, Peter Okoye was raising against him personally.

Read Also: First Lady Advocates Nutritious Feeding for Healthier Nigerians

Cynthia Morgan said she believed the legal process was still the best way to establish the facts surrounding the accusations, adding that she had witnessed things connected to the controversy.

The artiste also said that Jude is a divisive person and that he has the power to manipulate the way information about him is presented to the public.

She wrote: “If there is one thing I know about judeengees. I know for a fact that he can make the truth disappear in front of or behind the cameras. I am a living witness of his evil. So the only hope to get the truth this time is judiciary. God help them.

“But this time the difference is he came with chats and emails. See how fast he said Peter is crashing out because he is going down, that is how toxic and divisive he is. Even if I don’t listen to secular music anymore, I saw Peter trending with his new song recently. “Jude is not a nice man.

First Lady Advocates Nutritious Feeding for Healthier Nigerians

coic
-
0
First Lady Advocates Nutritious Feeding for Healthier Nigerians

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has advised mothers in the country, particularly lactating ones, to live healthy lives.

In her message, she urged marking this year’s World Breastfeeding Week.

The First Lady also urged mothers to eat healthy food for the healthy lives of their breastfeeding babies.

She said: “As we commemorate World Breastfeeding Week 2026, I stand with the global community in support of the theme for this year: ‘Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works’.

“Breastfeeding is the basis of a child’s healthy growth and lifelong development, and a vital investment in families and a nation.

“I urge mothers, particularly lactating mothers, to adopt healthy lifestyles and eat healthy foods for their well-being and that of their children. Happy World Breastfeeding Week,” she said.

August 3 is observed every year as World Breastfeeding Week.

West Africa Unveils Action Plan to Increase Women’s Political Participation

coic
-
0
West Africa Unveils Action Plan to Increase Women’s Political Participation

The West Africa Women’s Political Leadership Forum has adopted the Abuja Regional Action Plan on Accelerating Women’s Political Participation and Leadership in West Africa. This is a collective commitment by governments and stakeholders to translate the region’s gender parity aspirations into concrete action across the ECOWAS region.

Presenting the Action Plan at the close of the forum in Abuja, Dr Isata Mahoi, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, said the framework was adopted by representatives of ECOWAS governments, the African Women Leaders Network (AWLN), political leaders, parliamentarians, civil society organisations, the media, academia, development partners and young women leaders.

The Action Plan reiterates that “women’s equal and meaningful participation in political and public life is not only a fundamental human right, but also essential to democratic legitimacy, inclusive development, sustainable peace and resilient societies”.

It further notes that West Africa is “at a critical political juncture” with elections, constitutional reforms and political transitions determining the future of democracy, peace and development.

Read Also: Nigeria Launches National Safe Schools Department to Protect Students

It recalls the Freetown Declaration adopted by the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, and commits governments and stakeholders to legal and policy reforms, safe political spaces, stronger mentorship, accountability mechanisms, and measures to address structural financial barriers limiting women’s political participation.

In his closing submissions, United Nations Development Programme Director, Dr Jide Okeke, promised continued support to the implementation of the roadmap while reminding the participants that “ensuring implementation lies in their hands.”

Bineta Diop, Co-Convener of the African Women Leaders Network, said the adoption of the framework was a defining moment for women political leadership.

Today we adopt the Abuja Regional Action Plan. This is no mere declaration. This is a call to arms. It’s a collective commitment to take us from where we are today in our aspiration and for women in politics,” she added.

Diop said the focus now must be on implementation, adding, “The forum therefore is not just a talk show for women political leadership. It’s something tangible for us, a platform for action, a platform for implementation, accountability and results to be achieved.”

“As AWLN, I also commit to continue to support the implementation of the Action Plan,” she pledged continued support.

Now it is up to governments and institutions to translate commitments into concrete actions, ECOWAS Vice President, Damtien Tchintchibidja said.

It is now our responsibility to translate the Presidential Declaration and the Abuja Regional Action Plan into tangible results. “We need to take this framework into our national institutions, our parliaments, our political parties, our electoral systems and our communities as well,” she said.

“It provides a pragmatic framework for implementation, identifying priority actions, assigning responsibilities and establishing measures for monitoring progress across the broader political ecosystem,” she said. Implementation must be supported by “adequate resources, strong coordination, reliable data and clear accountability”, she added.

Tchintchibidja reaffirmed ECOWAS’ commitment to support member states through technical assistance, strategic alliances, and peer learning. “Together, hand in hand, we can make real change happen.”

The two-day forum was organised by ECOWAS in partnership with the Federal Government of Nigeria, the African Union, the African Women Leaders Network and the United Nations Development Programme.

Nigeria Launches National Safe Schools Department to Protect Students

coic
-
0
Nigeria Launches National Safe Schools Department to Protect Students

Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Alausa has created a full-fledged Safe Schools Department to provide strategic leadership, coordination and oversight of school safety programmes nationwide.

This was disclosed by Alausa in Abuja during an interactive session convened by the Senate Ad-hoc Committee to review the implementation of the Safe Schools Initiative, including the utilisation of appropriated funds, international grants and other external support for the programme.

The new department, Alausa said, replaces the former unit with a stronger institutional structure that reflects the ministry’s constitutional responsibility for policy, implementation and monitoring of education.

The minister said the ministry now coordinates the Safe Schools Initiative within a one national framework to improve implementation, improve accountability and monitor interventions in all the 774 local government areas in Nigeria.

He said the ministry is working closely with the Office of the National Security Adviser, Department of State Services, Armed Forces of Nigeria, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other relevant agencies to develop and implement a comprehensive national framework for safer schools.

“School safety is not something you do piecemeal. The Safe Schools Initiative involves a number of interrelated components that require a co-ordinated national approach.

“ Our security agencies will continue to discharge their constitutional duties, while the Federal Ministry of Education will provide policy direction, coordinate implementation with states and ensure that every school benefits from the programme,” he said.

The Minister said the renewed Safe Schools Initiative goes beyond the physical security, adding perimeter fencing, solar-powered lighting, water, sanitation and hygiene facilities, surveillance technology, trained security personnel, technology-driven early warning systems, effective monitoring mechanisms and stronger collaboration among the Federal Government, state governments, local communities and security agencies to create safer and more conducive learning environments.

Read Also: Kidnapped Kebbi High Court Judge Released by Abductors

He noted that the establishment of the dedicated department is a reflection of the commitment of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that every Nigerian child, from foundational to tertiary education, has access to a safe, secure and conducive learning environment.

Dr Alausa thanked the Senate Ad-hoc Committee for its engagement and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to working with the National Assembly, security agencies, state governments and other stakeholders to strengthen accountability, improve coordination and deliver sustainable solutions that protect schools and improve learning outcomes.

He assured Nigerians that the Federal Ministry of Education would continue to provide the needed leadership, policy direction and strategic alliances to build a safer and more resilient education system where every child can learn without fear.

The Senate Ad-hoc Committee on the Safe Schools Initiative has commended the cooperation of the Federal Ministry of Education with the National Assembly and respect for parliamentary oversight by the Ministry, saying it will continue to work with the Ministry for the safety of learners across Nigeria.

The committee’s chairman, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, described the minister as a public servant who had consistently demonstrated respect for constitutional institutions by honouring invitations from the National Assembly and constructively engaging with lawmakers in the discharge of oversight responsibilities.

The senator also commended the minister’s reforms in the education sector, saying they are initiatives that are strengthening Nigeria’s education system and contributing to national development.

He reemphasized the committee’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at improving the safety of schools, teachers and learners.

Dr Alausa told members of the committee that the funds being queried, which include international grants, foreign donations and appropriated funds, were disbursed several years before he was appointed minister.

The Safe Schools Financing Unit that was to administer the funds was then domiciled in the Federal Ministry of Finance, he said.

The minister said that although the disbursements were before his time, the Federal Government was still committed to transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.

“Government is a continuum. “We owe Nigerians a duty to account for the management of public resources and we will continue to cooperate fully with the distinguished Senate in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities,” he added.

Kidnapped Kebbi High Court Judge Released by Abductors

coic
-
0
Kidnapped Kebbi High Court Judge Released by Abductors

Kebbi State High Court Judge, Justice Faruku Bunza, abducted last week has been released by his abductors.

Earlier on Monday, the Kebbi State Police Command confirmed the release of Bunza, who was abducted from his residence in Bunza Local Government Area on July 26, 2026.

His release was confirmed by his family and the Kebbi State Ministry of Justice, the command said.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, in a press statement on Monday, said the kidnappers demanded ransom but the command maintained its position against ransom payment.

“Following the release of the judge, the police and other security agencies have intensified investigative efforts aimed at tracking down the perpetrators and bringing them to justice.

We appeal to the public to provide useful information that may help in this respect. All information provided shall be treated with the highest level of confidentiality,” it partly read.

The command thanked members of the public and other security agencies for their cooperation during the period of the judge’s captivity and assured residents of its continued commitment to protecting lives and property in all parts of Kebbi State.

A family member confirmed the development to our correspondent on Monday, saying the judge returned home safe a few hours before this report was filed.

“We are jubilant and full of gratitude to Almighty God for bringing our own back home safely. “He was released today, has come home after spending one week in captivity,” the family member said.

Read Also: Orji Uzor Kalu: Bishops Will Always Tell Tinubu the Truth

The family was overwhelmed with relief and thanked everyone who supported them through the ordeal, the source said.

“We sincerely appreciate the Kebbi State Judiciary, the security agencies, the state government, friends and the good people of Kebbi State who stood by us with prayers, messages of encouragement and different forms of support.

“Your support and solidarity kept us going during this difficult time and we are still very grateful,” he said.

However, the family declined to comment on the details surrounding the judge’s release.

‘The details of how he regained his freedom will be made public later. For now, we’re just grateful he’s back home safe,” the source said.

Justice Bunza was abducted by suspected bandits last week in the Bunza Local Government Area of Kebbi State, which attracted wide condemnation and increased concerns over the worsening insecurity situation in the state.

His abduction has sparked calls from the judiciary, legal practitioners and residents for greater efforts to secure his safe release.

The incident also underscored growing fears of attacks on prominent figures in parts of Northwest Nigeria, where armed banditry and abductions for ransom remain a serious security concern despite ongoing military operations.

The release of Bunza is expected to bring relief to the judiciary, his family and residents of Kebbi State, who had anxiously awaited news of his safe return.

Orji Uzor Kalu: Bishops Will Always Tell Tinubu the Truth

coic
-
0
Orji Uzor Kalu: Bishops Will Always Tell Tinubu the Truth

Senator for Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu has blamed politicians for misleading President Bola Tinubu on the situation of the country’s economy and insecurity.

The report follows the controversy that trailed the comment of the Archbishop Emeritus of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, that Tinubu differed with the assessment of the bishops about the country.

Speaking on the development, Kalu in a viral video online accused politicians of painting the President with wrong picture of the situation in the country.

Kalu said the Catholic bishops, whom he described as the conscience of the nation, always gave advice in the national interest.

Read Also: Oil Prices Fall as Trump Confirms New Iran Nuclear Talks

The lawmaker said the Nigerians were facing real challenges but should not blame Tinubu.

He said, “The Catholic bishops are the conscience of the country and when they give advice, their advice is not for or against, it is just for any sitting President to see things the way it should be.

The Catholic bishops know what is going on in the country. There are real problems in Nigeria, but they are not President Tinubu’s problem.

“Visit of Catholic bishops to President Tinubu is a good one, I support it because they are telling him the way it is.

“It encourages the President to work harder because the Catholic bishops are just telling him the way it is even if politicians are lying to him that things are good everywhere, they can never say that.

“Even if we politicians can lie to him, the bishops will tell him the truth about the present reality of the country.”

Oil Prices Fall as Trump Confirms New Iran Nuclear Talks

coic
-
0
Oil Prices Fall as Trump Confirms New Iran Nuclear Talks

Oil prices dropped sharply in early Asian trading on Monday after United States President Donald Trump said Washington would restart new negotiations with Iran to end the war in the Middle East and reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

The development sent the international oil market lower as investors reacted to the possibility of a diplomatic solution to the conflict and the reopening of the major shipping route .

International benchmark Brent crude for September delivery fell 4.69 per cent to $83.81 a barrel around 2250 GMT Sunday.

The US benchmark West Texas Intermediate fell 4.67 per cent to $80.72 per barrel.

The latest rise in oil prices followed Trump’s announcement on Sunday that fresh talks with Iran would begin on Monday, according to reports.

The President said he had postponed major military strikes against Iran to seek a diplomatic solution to the conflict.

“And what we’re doing now is we’re negotiating with them. “It’s starting tomorrow afternoon,” Trump said.

Read Also: Tinubu Will Lose 2027 Election, Says Primate Ayodele

He did not say, however, where the negotiations would be held or who would participate.

The war, which broke out in late February after the United States and Israel attacked Iran, has made the global oil market very volatile.

The conflict has effectively disrupted the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important transit routes for the movement of crude oil and natural gas.

The waterway is vital to the world’s energy supplies and any lengthy interruption has sparked fears of possible shortages and more expensive fuel globally.

Iran meanwhile said on Sunday it was nearing an agreement with Oman on a new route through the Strait of Hormuz.

The announcement came hours after the United States canceled major planned strikes against Iran as diplomatic efforts to settle the conflict gained momentum.

A possible reopening of the strategic waterway or the creation of an alternative route could ease pressure on global energy supplies and further influence oil prices in the coming days.

Tinubu Will Lose 2027 Election, Says Primate Ayodele

coic
-
0
Tinubu Will Lose 2027 Election, Says Primate Ayodele

Primate Elijah Ayodele, the Spiritual Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has issued a warning that President Bola Tinubu will lose the 2027 presidential election.

“Bribing Nigerians with rice and money to vote for Tinubu will not work in 2027,” Primate Ayodele warned.

Addressing his members in his Lagos church, the popular prophet backed the comment of the Archbishop Emeritus of Catholic Diocese of Abuja, Cardinal John Onaiyekan on Tinubu, stating that Nigerians are hungry and angry.

He told Nigerians to leave Onaiyekan because he was telling the truth which some pentecostal pastors have failed to tell Tinubu.

Read Also: Trump Confirms Monday Meeting to Discuss Iran Nuclear Issue

Primate Ayodele said: “This is what I expected all these babas of faith, I don’t want to mention their names because it’s not sounding right before God.

“I give Archbishop Onaiyekan credit for what he said to the president. Let him take or not if Tinubu like but there is anger and hunger in the land, leave him.

“By the election you will see how people will show their grievances, rice and money will not stop it. “We are telling you to do the right thing, all these surrogate aides will push you into a fire that will burn you, Tinubu will lose this election.”

1...131415...2,825Page 14 of 2,825
© Newspaper WordPress Theme by TagDiv