NIGERIA NEWS
Vote buying: Why we’ve not charged those arrested in Anambra to court – INEC
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has explained why those arrested for engaging in vote-buying during the recent governorship election in Anambra State have not been charged to court.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ forum on elections, organised by the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room on Thursday in Abuja, Chairman of the Commission, Prof Joash Amupitan, SAN, said whereas INEC is statutorily empowered to prosecute electoral offenders, however, security agencies that carried out the arrests have not submitted their investigation reports to the Commission.
Amupitan stated that the electoral body have been collaborating with the relevant agencies to secure the reports.
“I am happy to know that you are aware that some people were arrested, and people are saying, what have you done?
“We are reaching to the police. We are reaching to EFCC. We are reaching to all the other agencies. We will need reports on the investigations conducted in respect of those people that were arrested.
“Because the power of INEC is to prosecute, not to arrest. We don’t have that capacity for now.
“We are liaising with the law engineering agencies to ensure that those that were arrested will have their day in court,” he said.
According to him, to secure democracy, technological integrity must be matched by political accountability.
The INEC boss decried that poor telecommunication network remained the Commission’s biggest obstacle in its effort to achieve real-time upload of election results from the 176, 000 polling units in the country, some of which are located in remote areas.
NIGERIA NEWS
Gov Abiodun mourns Bayelsa Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo
Ogun State Governor and Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Mr. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away on Thursday.
Ewhrudjakpo reportedly slumped on Thursday afternoon and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Yenagoa, where he was confirmed dead.
In a statement issued in Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun said he received the news “with shock,” noting that the late deputy governor was at his office performing official duties shortly before the incident.
According to him, the circumstance of Ewhrudjakpo’s death underscores his dedication to service.
“He apparently defied illness to serve the people of Bayelsa State,” Abiodun said.
The governor extended condolences to Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, as well as the government and people of the state, urging them to take solace in the life of commitment and service lived by the deceased.
“I received news of the demise of the deputy governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency, Mr. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, with deep sorrow,” he said. “The incident came as a profound shock to all of us, but we submit to the will of the Almighty God, who has chosen to call him home at this time.”
Abiodun described Governor Diri’s loss as particularly painful, noting that he has “lost a dependable ally,” and extended sympathy to the family and friends of the late deputy governor.
“It is my sincere prayer that the Almighty God will be with them and give them the strength to survive this hour of pain and sorrow,” he added.
The governor said Bayelsa State and Nigeria had lost “a gem,” but urged the public to take comfort in the fact that Ewhrudjakpo lived a life dedicated to public service.
“May his gentle soul rest in sweet repose,” he said.
NIGERIA NEWS
Burkina Faso: Nigerian Govt Gives Update On Whereabout Of Detained NAF Officers, Plane
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has confirmed that Nigerian soldiers aboard the C-130 aircraft that made a forced landing in Burkina Faso remain in the West African country.
Tuggar made the disclosure on Thursday during a joint press briefing at the ECOWAS Commission in Abuja alongside his Beninese counterpart, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) had earlier explained that the aircraft was on a ferry mission to Portugal when it experienced a technical issue, prompting it to land in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, in accordance with standard aviation safety protocols.
NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the landing was a precautionary move in compliance with international aviation regulations.
The Confederation of Sahel States (AES), a regional bloc made up of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, had accused Nigeria of violating Burkinabe airspace, describing the aircraft’s landing as an “unfriendly act carried out in defiance of international law.”
The AES also authorised member states to neutralise any unauthorised aircraft within their airspace.
Responding to questions on the soldiers’ status, Tuggar confirmed they remain in Burkina Faso.
He said, “Yes, they are. We are discussing how we can resolve this delicate matter as quickly as possible, and we’re talking. So it’s something that is being handled diplomatically.”
Beninese Foreign Minister, Olushegun Bakari, clarified that the incident involving the Nigerian Air Force plane had no connection with Nigeria’s military support in foiling a recent coup attempt in the Benin Republic. Tuggar backed the clarification.
Tuggar said, “Absolutely, it was on its way to Portugal, and it developed a technical problem and was forced to land.
“And this is part of ICAO regulations, it’s under international law. When you’re flying, and you have a problem, you land in the nearest airport, and it can happen to anybody.
“Tomorrow, it can be a Burkinabe plane flying, let’s say, to Kenya or somewhere, and then it’s forced to land in Kano or Maiduguri or anywhere else. It can be any other country.”
© 2025 Naija News, a division of Polance Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]
NIGERIA NEWS
Tinubu’s Anti-Corruption War Political Witch-Hunt
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has raised concern that Nigeria’s anti-corruption campaign is being weaponised for partisan purposes under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
In a statement issued by his media office, Atiku advised the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other anti-graft agencies to purge themselves of political interference or risk losing the trust of Nigerians permanently.
The former vice president, reacting to the arrest and detention of former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), accused the EFCC of abandoning the principles on which it was founded.
He lamented that the agency, instead of upholding justice, is now allegedly being used to pursue narrow political agendas.
“The politicisation of corruption investigations has rendered the EFCC’s credibility suspect and rubbished the very ideals that inspired its establishment,” Atiku said.
He criticised what he described as the selective targeting of opposition figures such as Malami, warning that the pattern portrays the EFCC as an overzealous extension of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Atiku expressed shock that the EFCC “became hyperactive the moment the African Democratic Congress (ADC) emerged as an opposition force,” launching what he called coordinated actions against key figures like Malami and Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, while ignoring alleged corruption involving allies of the ruling party.
He recalled instances where former governors with pending corruption cases were reportedly rewarded with ministerial and ambassadorial appointments by President Tinubu, yet the EFCC “looked away without objection.”
Atiku further alleged that Malami would have been spared if he had defected to the APC, even “if he had looted the entire CBN vault.”
“Nigerians are watching in disbelief as an agency created to fight corruption willingly turns itself into a lapdog of the ruling APC, used to hound credible opposition while shielding political loyalists,” he added.
Atiku also accused the EFCC of using intimidation to compel politicians to join the ruling party, claiming that corruption cases often “disappear” once individuals align with the APC.
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NIGERIA NEWS
Okonjo-Iweala, Kukah, others pay tributes to EiE Nigeria
One of Nigeria’s leading civil society organisations, Enough is Enough (EiE) Nigeria, marked its 15th anniversary on Wednesday in Lagos, celebrating its contributions to civic engagement, government accountability, and youth empowerment across the country.
The event, themed ‘Footprints and Frontlines,’ featured the launch of the second edition of the organisation’s flagship book on active citizenship, ‘Footprints 2.0’, whose foreword was written by the late Christopher Kolade, who was a boardroom icon, diplomat, and broadcaster.
Matthew Kukah, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, delivered pre-recorded remarks praising EiE for its courage, determination, and commitment to justice, fairness, and equity.
He urged the organisation to continue its work, noting that civic engagement transcends generations and that building a fair Nigeria is “bigger than all of us.”
Muhammad Sanusi, the Emir of Kano, spotlighted the role of civil society in holding governments accountable.
He stressed that the nation belongs to its people, not only political leaders, and called for unity and a shared vision for Nigeria’s future.
Representing the entertainment sector, Nigerian hip-hop artist Jude Abaga, also known as M.I., recounted his personal journey in civic involvement.
He spoke about his efforts to encourage young people to register to vote and participate in governance, and emphasised EiE’s role in connecting the creative sector with civic advocacy, empowering thousands of young Nigerians to actively shape democratic processes.
Fola Adeola, co-founder of GTCO and long-time supporter of EiE, commended the organisation for sustaining citizen advocacy over the past 15 years.
He urged volunteers, partners, and staff to build on their achievements by fostering vision, unity, and civic responsibility among Nigerians.
In her pre-recorded address played during the event, the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, commended EiE’s 15 years of active citizenship, highlighting its role in mobilising citizens to register, vote, and hold elected officials accountable.
Cross-section of participants
She cited tangible results, including repaired school roads, reopened health centres, and improved access to electricity in underserved communities.
Speakers collectively stressed the importance of resilience, innovation, and technology in strengthening civic education and participation. They also called on Nigerians to overcome divisions of ethnicity, religion, and geography to create a more inclusive society.
EiE’s legacy in civic engagement
Founded in 2010, EiE Nigeria has led campaigns such as Register, Select, Vote, Protect, aimed at promoting electoral integrity.
The organisation has also leveraged social media, town halls, and voter education programmes to amplify citizens’ voices and enhance government accountability.
Launch of Footprints 2.0
During the anniversary event, EiE launched Footprints 2.0, expanding the book from 10 to 15 chapters.
Yemi Adamolekun, EiE’s executive director, said the new edition reflects the evolution of civic engagement in Nigeria and adds chapters on local governance and the National Social Action Scheme (NSAS).
In her welcome address, Mrs Adamolekun explained EiE’s journey over 15 years, noting that the organisation has educated Nigerians on the power of their voice and how to use it effectively.
She said the book’s ‘Footprints’ section traces EiE’s civic initiatives, from protests and policy advocacy to voter campaigns and youth mobilisation, while ‘Frontlines’ captures ongoing nation-building in classrooms, courtrooms, markets, studios, and digital spaces.
Mrs Adamolekun said the celebration coincided with Human Rights Day, commemorating the 1948 adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
She also welcomed back Mrs Okonjo-Iweala, whose keynote at the 2010 Future Awards helped inspire EiE’s founding.
The launch honoured contributors including Tunde Bakare and Aisha Yusuf and recognised new contributors such as Attahiru Jega, Seun Akinyemi, Dapo Awobeku, Ngozi Iwere, Rinu Douala, Serah Ibrahim, Obianuju Illonya, Tunji Lardaner, Adan Ahmad, Solomon Emiola, Imoleayo Michael, and Cheta Nwanze.
The event also paid a special tribute to the late Christopher Kolade for his contributions to civic engagement.
Reflections on civic engagement
On the sidelines, M.I. encouraged young Nigerians to remain engaged in shaping the country’s future.
He described EiE as a bridge for his advocacy work with organisations such as Task, the UN, UNDP, Osiwa, and the Gates Foundation, and warned that disengagement from civic duties worsens national challenges.
Political economist Pat Utomi said Nigeria’s political class has fallen short of citizens’ expectations, leaving the country distant from youth aspirations.
He recalled the formation of the Concerned Professionals in 1993 and the 1995 Integrity Movement, highlighting citizen-led accountability, and urged each generation to define and pursue its mission to sustain civic activism.
The event concluded by recognising Mr Kolawole’s legacy and calling on the next generation of Nigerians to continue engaging actively in governance and national development.
Since 2010, EiE has mobilised citizens through campaigns like Register, Select, Vote, Protect, using civic education and technology to strengthen accountability. Its work forms part of a broader wave of Nigerian civic movements, empowering young people to actively participate in governance and influence national reforms.
NIGERIA NEWS
African Energy Policy Alliance Applauds NUPRC’s Transparent Release of Frontier Exploration Funds
*Hails Komolafe’s Leadership in Strengthening Regulatory Credibility
The African Energy Policy Alliance (AEPA) has commended the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for its transparent handling and timely release of the Frontier Exploration Fund (FEF) to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, describing the move as “a model of regulatory–industry synergy for the rest of the continent”.
In an electronic statement issued on Thursday, Dr. Randy Amuche, Executive Director of AEPA, said the Commission’s clarification, confirming the approval and release of over $185 million and N14.9 billion to the NNPCL, reinforces the reputation of the NUPRC under the leadership of Gbenga Komolafe as a regulator deeply committed to accountability, professionalism and transparent resource governance.
AEPA noted that the Commission’s prompt dismissal of claims that it withheld the fund demonstrates a maturing regulatory culture grounded in evidence-based processes.
“The NUPRC, led by Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, has once again demonstrated exceptional regulatory discipline. By explaining that the Frontier Exploration Fund is domiciled with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and not with the Commission, and that disbursement follows rigorous evaluation of NNPCL’s work programmes, the NUPRC has set a continental benchmark for transparency,” the statement reads.
Dr Amuche praised the Commission’s decision to contract PwC to independently evaluate NNPC’s claims before approving payments, saying it reflects a commitment to financial integrity and best-practice oversight.
“From the initial release of N14.9 billion and $45 million, to the final tranche of $140 million approved on November 27, the NUPRC demonstrated procedural discipline that boosts investor confidence. Such diligence is precisely what Africa needs as countries seek to unlock frontier basins from Uganda to Namibia,” he said.
AEPA also applauded the seamless coordination between the NUPRC and the NNPC, describing the relationship as a model of how regulators and national oil companies should collaborate to drive national and continental energy security.
“What we are witnessing between the NUPRC and NNPC is a productive, functional relationship rooted in mutual respect for institutional mandates. The regulator demands evidence; the national oil company meets the requirements; and both work together toward expanding exploration in frontier basins,” Dr Amuche observed.
He urged other African nations reforming their petroleum governance structures to study Nigeria’s approach, noting that credible, transparent regulatory practices remain central to improving global investor perception of Africa’s energy markets.
“For Africa to compete and grow, we need institutions that are predictable, professional and transparent. The NUPRC’s handling of the Frontier Exploration Fund is a strong demonstration of how regulatory integrity strengthens the entire energy ecosystem,” he said.
AEPA also encouraged stakeholders to rely on verified information and avoid “unsubstantiated claims” that undermine trust in public institutions.
The continental organisation reaffirmed its support for Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to strengthen exploration funding, deepen frontier basin development, and expand domestic reserves in line with global energy transition realities.
“Nigeria is setting the pace. Properly supervised frontier exploration, as currently driven by the NUPRC under Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, is essential not just for national growth but for Africa’s collective energy future,” he added.
NIGERIA NEWS
After Reaching 300 Level, Nigerian Lady Switches From Anatomy To Nursing, Spends 7 Years in School
- A Nigerian lady who gained admission to study anatomy at the university switched to nursing which has always been her heart desire
- According to the lady, she wanted to study nursing, but there was no resources at the time she gained admission so she started with anatomy
- However, when she got to 300 level, her parents supported her to make the switch to nursing, and now she has graduated after seven years
A Nigerian lady has finally graduated from the university after spending seven years there.
According to the lady who shared her inspirational story on TikTok, she gained admission to study anatomy but she later made a switch into nursing.
Romanus Victory Ihuoma said she spent seven years in the university. Photo credit: TikTok/@vickypresh263.
Source: TikTok
In her post, the lady, Romanus Victory Ihuoma said it has always been her dream to study nursing, but could not pursue it because it was expensive.
However, when she got to 300 level in the department of anatomy, her parents advised her to switch to nursing.

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She said:
“It started in 2019 when I got admitted into the Human Anatomy department. I studied up to 300 level—just one session left to graduate—and my parents advised me to switch to Nursing. Nursing had always been my passion, but the resources weren’t available at the time. Still, we pushed through, I took the change of course form, and began the journey again in the Nursing department.”
When she switched to nursing, Victory said the course felt strange and touch, both mentally and financialy, but she refused to give up.
She noted:
“It felt strange. The courses were confusing compared to Anatomy, but I kept pushing. The road became tough… and I must say, Nursing is financially demanding. I saw hell. And the worst part is that no one cares whether you can pay or not—you must pay your bills on time. I cried. I prayed. I begged God for strength. For years, my only prayer point was to have food to eat. And God came through for me.”
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After spending seven years in school, she has now graduated as a proud registered nurse.
She said:
“People asked me if I wasn’t done with school yet, or if I was repeating levels. Many times, I answered with shame. I watched two sets graduate before it was finally my turn—even people I entered school before. But I did my part, and God crowned my efforts. On the 4th of December 2025, I signed out of the university. A journey that took me 7 long years to complete.”
Ihuoma poses in a photo with her parents. Photo credit: TikTok/@vickypresh263.
Source: TikTok
Graduate becomes a filling station attendant
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that a Nigerian man who is a university graduate has gone viral after he posted photos showing what he does for a living.
According to the man’s post, he has completed his education and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).
However, he indicated that he now works at a filling station as a pump attendant, a development that sparked reactions.
Source: Legit.ng
NIGERIA NEWS
Bandits, terrorists in trouble as Nigerian Army graduates well-trained soldiers from battle course
The 8 Division of the Nigerian Army has graduated 60 soldiers from its fourth quarter basic battle course.
The division said the graduation would bolster operational capacity under Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force (JTF) North West Operation Fansan Yamma.
The training lasted nine weeks and was designed to instil “warrior ethos” and improve the combat effectiveness of troops.
General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and commander Sector 2 JTF, Ibikunle Ademola Ajose, expressed satisfaction with the progress of the division’s training school.
Ajose said he was pleased with the improvements in infrastructure and training, adding that the gains were visible in field reports.
He urged the graduating soldiers to apply their skills and serve as mentors to their colleagues.
He said, “Share your knowledge especially in weapon and live arms drills and let your discipline be an example to others.”
David Ezebuche, acting division training officer, said the programme was designed not only to teach tactics but to cultivate a mindset built on courage, discipline and team spirit.
The ceremony featured a demonstration of battlefield skills before formation commanders and staff officers.
Outstanding participants received awards during the event.
Lance Corporal Abubakar Rabiu was named best graduating student, WHILE Sapper Popoola Ayomide was adjudged second in the order of merit. Private Edore Ogbenefejiro placed third.
The ceremony ended with the presentation of certificates and group photographs.
NIGERIA NEWS
BERGER Paints, JAPAULGOLD top advancers’ chart as All-Share Index rebounds to N94 trillion
The Nigerian All-Share Index closed firmly in the green on 11 December 2025, adding 1,088.58 points to finish at 147,950.59
That is a 0.74% lift from the previous day’s close of 146,861.98, even as overall market activity softened.
Daily trading volume eased to 529 million units, down from 747 million recorded in the prior session.
Market capitalization, however, pushed higher, rising to about N94.3 trillion across 18,159 deals, compared with N93.6 trillion in the previous session.
On the gainers’ chart, JAPAULGOLD and BERGER Paints led the pack, each advancing 9.88%.
On the laggards’ side, JOHN HOLT and CHAMPION fell by 9.26% and 7.86% respectively.
In terms of market activity, ACCESSCORP and FCMB dominated the day’s volume, trading the highest number of shares.
Market summary
- Current ASI: 147,950.59
- Previous ASI: 146,861.98
- Day Change: +0.74%
- Year-to-Date Performance: +43.74%
- Volume Traded: 529 million shares
- Market Cap: N94.3 trillion.
Top 5 gainers
- BERGER: Up 9.88% to N40.05
- JAPAULGOLD: Up 9.88% to N2.78
- MORISON: Up 9.77% to N4.27
- PZ: Up 9.36% to N45.00
- LEGENDINT: Up 8.91% to N5.50
Top 5 losers
- JOHNHOLT: Down 9.26% to N4.90
- CHAMPION: Down 7.86% to N12.90
- ETERNA: Down 5.48% to N30.20
- VFDGROUP: Down 5.07% to N10.30
- TIP: Down 4.80% to N11.90
Trading volume
- ACCESSCORP led the activity chart with 156.3 million shares, setting the pace for the session.
- FCMB followed with 74.5 million shares.
- FIDELITYBK ranked third with 42.9 million shares, while JAPAULGOLD and ZENITHBANK rounded out the top five with 41.1 million and 20.3 million shares respectively.
Trading value
- By transaction value, ACCESSCORP also dominated with trades worth N3.1 billion.
- ZENITHBANK came next with N1.3 billion, while MTNN recorded deals totaling N1.09 billion.
- FCMB posted N819.5 million in value traded, and FIDELITYBK completed the top five at N812.7 million.
SWOOT and FUGAZ performance
Stocks Worth Over One Trillion Naira (SWOOTs) reflected a bullish tone during the session:
- NIGERIAN BREWERIES advanced by 7.57%.
- MTNN climbed 4.91%.
Among the FUGAZ names:
- FIRSTHOLD shed 1.1%, UBA slipped 0.62%, ACCESSCORP fell 0.49%, GTCO declined 0.44%.
- ZENITHBANK edged down by 0.08%.
Market outlook
The All-Share Index is inching closer to a full recovery after the late-November dip that pushed it toward the 143,000 mark.
If sustained buying interest returns across mid- and large-cap stocks, the market could be on course for a rebound toward the 150,000 level.
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NIGERIA NEWS
FRC Finalises Five-Year Revised Strategic Plan, Moves to Expand Collaboration with ICPC, DMO – THISDAYLIVE
Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja
The Fiscal Responsibility Commission (FRC) has revealed that it is finalising the revised Five-Year Strategic Plan, designed to enhance public financial management, transparency, and accountability across all tiers of government in the country.
This is in alignment with the mandate of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) 2007.
FRC Chairman, Mr. Victor Muruako, who disclosed this in Abuja during the 2025 end-of-year activities.of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), said the revised plan includes expanded areas of collaboration with the ICPC aimed at strengthening the delivery of their shared mandates.
The Five-Year Revised Strategic Plan focuses on several key areas, including improving Public Financial Management (PFM), with focus on implementing strategies to ensure the prudent management of the nation’s resources and long-term macroeconomic stability.
It also incorporates monitoring and evaluation, strengthening systems to monitor government revenue, expenditure, and debt practices, as well as encouraging greater public engagement in fiscal governance and the budgetary process to foster transparency.
The Plan equally includes enhancing the FRC’s operational efficiency through collaboration with other anti-corruption agencies like the ICPC and the Debt Management Office (DMO).
At the event, Muruako applauded the ICPC for its steadfast commitment to accountability and anti-corruption efforts across Nigeria.
In a statement, Deputy Director, Strategic Communications Directorate of the FRC, Mr. Bede Ogueri Anyanwu said Muruako extended warm felicitations from the management and staff of his agency.
He described the event as timely and significant as the nation reflects on the challenges and accomplishments of the outgoing year.
Muruako commended the ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, and his team for sustaining the Commission’s legacy as one of Nigeria’s frontline anti-corruption institutions.
Muruako particularly highlighted the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two agencies, describing it as a major step toward strengthening inter-agency collaboration in tackling corruption at all tiers of government.
According to him, both agencies had in recent months intensified joint efforts targeted at enhancing accountability and preventing corruption at the local government level.
These efforts, he noted, focus on improved budget preparation, prudent management of public funds, and the modernization of tax, financial and asset administration systems. He emphasized that where acts of corruption are detected, the law must take its full course to deter future offenders.
Expressing gratitude for the successes recorded in 2025, the FRC Chairman praised the ICPC for maintaining an unblemished record and avoiding allegations of compromise.
He encouraged the Commission’s staff not to relent in their determination to combat graft, assuring them that their sacrifices for the nation are deeply appreciated.
The FRC Chairman reaffirmed the his agency’s unwavering support for the ICPC, and expressed confidence that the coming year would bring even greater achievements.
NIGERIA NEWS
Impact of 3MTT proves Nigeria can build $1tn economy — Tinubu
By Progress Godfrey, Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that the nationwide impact of the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme shows Nigeria can achieve its $1 trillion economy target by increasing productivity and training a skilled workforce.
Speaking through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume, at the 3MTT Nigeria National Impact Summit in Abuja on Thursday, the President stated that national wealth requires deliberate investment in people rather than luck.
He noted that in a world changed by technology, successful nations are those that develop the skills of their youth. The President stressed that under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Nigeria must treat human capital as its most valuable asset.
Tinubu explained that digital skills are now essential for growth in agriculture, healthcare, finance and manufacturing. He described the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme as a key part of his administration’s plan to transform the economy.
“A strong digital workforce creates jobs, expands enterprise and positions Nigeria to participate competitively in the global marketplace. More importantly, it shifts our role in the world from passive consumers of technology to active creators and exporters of talent,” he said.
The President praised the programme for moving from a concept to real results in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, highlighting that over 1.8 million applications were received, leading to new startups and jobs across the country.
He thanked the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy and partners like Google, MTN and the European Union for supporting the initiative while urging continued teamwork to keep transforming technical skills across the nation.
Tinubu affirmed that the government is determined to build a strong foundation for a digital workforce. He stated that the future of Nigeria relies on skilled hands and innovative minds ready to lead.
He said, “To the young Nigerians gathered here, and to the millions you represent across every community in our nation, we believe in your capacity and your future. Through initiatives like 3MTT, we are building genuine platforms for progress, not ceremonial commitments.”
Earlier in his remarks, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, revealed that 135,000 Nigerians have been trained in the last two years, with some moving on to jobs or studies abroad, even as he praised the President’s support.
Tijani pointed to the administration’s commitment to infrastructure, citing the approval of 4,000 telecom sites for rural areas. This project, he said, aims to connect about 23 million Nigerians who currently lack internet access.
The minister projected that 170 million tech jobs would be available by 2030, expressing confidence that the current strategy will prepare Nigerian youths to fill these vacancies and sustain a vibrant digital economy.
Highlighting support from partners like Google, Microsoft, MTN, IHS and the African Development Bank among others, he emphasised that the programme is open to everyone. He also noted that the Nigerian Communications Commission provided gadgets worth 1.5 billion naira, helping beneficiaries secure 15,000 direct jobs.
He therefore called for more private sector participation and outlined the programme’s grassroots structure while also adding that community managers are now active in all states, supported by over 600 facility agents across the 774 local government councils.
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