The Nation Newspaper

Category: Campus Life

  • Professional bags doctorate

    Professional bags doctorate

    • By Akewusola Khodijat

    The Institute of Leadership Manpower and Management Development (ILMMD) has given a Doctorate Degree in Business Administration, Leadership and Project Management to a professional and founder of AORN International Services Limited,  Abdulsalam Olayinka Rabiu.

    This is in  recognition of  Abdulsalam’s exceptional contributions and expertise in leadership and management, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.

    ILMMD, a professional body renowned for its administrative and leadership prestige, has a membership composed of top, middle, and lower-level executives, administrators, and experts in leadership, manpower, and management development.

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    The degree underscores Abdulsalam’s dedication to the principles of effective leadership and strategic management. It not only recognises his past achievements but also highlights his potential to continue shaping the future of leadership and management practices.

    Abdulsalam established his firm  two years ago, driven by a commitment to making a tangible and lasting impact on society.

    The firm  is not merely a business venture but a vehicle for creating a legacy of positive change and contributing substantively to the greater good. Abdulsalam’s extensive background, characterised by significant leadership roles and an unwavering commitment to excellence, positions the company as a key player in its industry, poised for substantial growth and influence.

  • ‘Education on how IAM can tackle fraud, cybercrime vital’

    ‘Education on how IAM can tackle fraud, cybercrime vital’

    Oluwananumi Dawodu, a cybersecurity engineer and Fraud and Investigations Officer, UK Department of Works and Pensions, has stressed the need for education and enlightenment on how  Identity Access Management (IAM) can help to tackle fraud, data breaches and cybercrime.

    According to him digital identity theft is developing quickly in Nigeria and all around Africa because hackers know that consumers typically don’t have the tools or expertise to defend themselves.  Phishing, fake alarms, and impersonation scams are all examples of social engineering attacks that rely on people making mistakes, not technological problems.

    There are a few simple but powerful things that everyday people can do, he told DAMOLA KOLA-DARE in an interview.

    Can you walk us through your journey into cybersecurity? What motivated you to specialise in this field?

    I became interested in cybersecurity as I learned more about how digital systems work and where they go wrong. I work as a Fraud and Investigations specialist for the UK Government in  the Counter Fraud and Compliance Department (CFCD). I was in charge of security operations at SecureO, where I oversaw the use of SIEM products, including Microsoft XDR, Azure Sentinel, Nessus, and Rapid7. I help businesses achieve PCI DSS and ISO 27001 compliance needs and provide cloud security consulting for AWS, Azure, and GCP environments. I’ve worked in cybersecurity with DigiHealth Africa, Kiteworks UK, TradesTeam, and Makintouch Consulting. As a cybersecurity instructor at GOMYCODE, I have also taught people just starting their careers. I am a 2024 recipient of the Tech Nation UK endorsement for the United Kingdom Global Talent Visa in Cybersecurity. I won the AfriSAFE Young Innovator Award (2021), the Diana Award (2021), the SDG Innovation Challenge Award from the African Youth SDG Summit (2020), and the SME100 Africa 25under25 Most Enterprising Award (2020). I volunteer as a cybersecurity mentor for Scotland Women in Technology, helping women reskill in technology through organised coaching, industry guidance, and career development. I opted to focus on cybersecurity because it allowed me to work on actual challenges that matter. Digital identity.protection and following the rules were two areas that interested me. There was a big gap between what the rules said and what people did, especially in the developing regions.

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    You’ve worked across Africa and Europe, what differences have you noticed in how these regions approach cybersecurity?

    I’ve seen Africa and Europe tackle cybersecurity differently when I’ve worked there.

    Cybersecurity is more regulated in Europe. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other rules have made it very important to follow. Most organisations have defined plans for how to respond to incidents, security teams that work full-time, and funding to support strong infrastructure. Cybersecurity is generally a top priority for businesses in the private sector. For instance, by 2023, 88% of German organisations said they had a Chief Information Security

    Officer (CISO).

    On the other hand, Africa is still figuring out how to do things. People are becoming more aware of cybersecurity and putting a lot of money into it, but how it is implemented is not always the same. Some nations, like Kenya and Nigeria, have set up national cybersecurity frameworks but don’t have the resources or the ability to implement them. Many businesses, especially small and medium-sized ones, don’t even have basic security measures. However, local talent and creativity is growing, which is helping to bridge the gap over time.

    What are the most common digital identity theft and online fraud vectors today?

    Cybercriminals mostly use phishing, spoofing credentials, malware, and social engineering techniques to obtain personal information and commit fraud online. Phishing is still the most common type of attack. The 2024 Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report found that human error or manipulation caused more than 74% of breaches. Phishing attacks generally happen by email or SMS to get people to give up their login information. Credential stuffing, in which hackers utilise stolen credentials from earlier breaches to get into other accounts, still works since many people use the same passwords. Malware is another common way to get viruses, and it is typically buried in bogus downloads or bad websites. Public Wi-Fi is also dangerous since attackers can access unencrypted data. In some places, SIM switching is used to get around two-factor authentication by moving a victim’s number to a new SIM card. I previously spoke about global identity theft and SIM card scams in The Nation  online media; you can look that up.

    We’ve seen a rise in the spate of digital identity theft in Nigeria and even all over the globe.

    How can everyday users in Africa protect themselves from social engineering attacks?

    Digital identity theft is developing quickly in Nigeria and all around Africa because hackers know that consumers typically don’t have the tools or expertise to defend themselves. Phishing, fake alarms, and impersonation scams are all examples of social engineering attacks that rely on people making mistakes, not technological problems. There are a few simple but powerful things that everyday people can do. First, always check requests for private information, especially if they say they need it immediately or have the power to get it. Don’t click on links or download attachments from people you don’t know. Second, make sure that all of your critical accounts, such as your bank account, email, and social media accounts, have strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication (2FA) turned on. Third, make sure your operating system and software are up to date. Most malware infestations take advantage of systems that are out of date. Fourth, be careful about what you post on the internet. People commonly utilise personal information, like your mother’s maiden name, birthdate, or school, to guess passwords or security questions. Finally, be careful of online deals that seem “too good to be true.” A lot of scams use emotional manipulation to encourage people to respond quickly.

    Could you explain how Identity and Access Management (IAM) helps keep nline data breaches, fraud, and cybercrime to a minimum?

    IAM, or Management of Identity and Access, is one of the best ways for businesses to decrease their security risk. This activity aims to set rules and guidelines for those in an organisation who can access specific systems and data at any given moment. IAM is a system that checks identities and ensures that the right people have access at the right time and for the right reasons. In a digital economy like Nigeria, where cyberattacks, identity theft, and financial fraud are rising, identity and access management (IAM) is no longer an option; it is a must.

    IAM has already shown that it works in industrialised countries where it has been implemented.

    For example, Microsoft found that using multi-factor authentication (MFA) stops 99.9% of automated account hacks from reaching their target. According to Verizon’s 2023 Data Breach Investigations Report, more than 74% of data breaches were triggered by people, most of whom exploited stolen credentials or social engineering. The World Economic Forum says that 80% of cyberattacks use old or reused credentials. IBM’s 2023 study “Cost of a Data Breach” found that data breaches cost an average of $4.45 million each time they happen worldwide. There is no doubt about the pattern: a good identity and access control system makes it much less likely that you will be exposed to cyber dangers.

    What does that have to do with what’s going on in Nigeria?

    There have been more cyber occurrences in Nigeria, especially in the telecom and financial sectors. Experts thought Nigeria’s banking and FinTech industries would lose more than N273 billion (approximately $762 million) to fraud in 2022. More than N20 billion of these losses were due to SIM-swap fraud. In the first three months of 2023, Nigeria reported 82,000 hacked data accounts, a 64% increase over the previous three months. There were 119,000 breaches in the first quarter of 2025, which is 85% fewer than in the fourth quarter of 2024. This shows how crucial it is to secure your identity.

    Ransomware also hit 71% of businesses in Nigeria in 2021, making it one of the countries with the most ransomware attacks in the world. In 2021, a significant security breach in the financial technology industry put the personal information of more than 10 million people at risk. These numbers show that despite some short-term improvements, the main problems, such as identity theft and poor access control are still there. IAM could help in this area.

    What specific IAM tools or methods would be most useful?

    Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is the quickest and cheapest way to keep your account safe.

    Requiring a second form of authentication, like a code sent by SMS, an authentication app, or biometrics, stops most credential attacks. This prevents the attacks from working. The Nigerian Communications Commission has already suggested that mobile services utilise two-factor authentication Still, many private companies haven’t fully adopted it on all platforms yet, especially in areas that have nothing to do with banks.

    The notion of least privilege and role-based access control (RBAC) is also significant. This limits people’s access to only the information they need to do their jobs, which lowers the danger of accidental exposure or insider threats. Companies in industrialised countries saw a 50% to 80% drop in insider incidents when they used strict RBAC procedures. The number of high-risk access incidents in the banking industry dropped by 94% when identity and access management (IAM) technologies were used to stop power misuse. Nigerian businesses can do the same, especially in healthcare, banking, and telecommunications, where they are more likely to handle sensitive data.

    Privileged Access Management, or PAM, is another tool firms with valuable assets or large customer databases should use. PAM manages and audits accounts with higher rights,including those of system administrators or developers. Most significant data breaches worldwide, including the one on SolarWinds, used privileged accounts. Nigeria’s public and private digital infrastructure must treat PAM as a prerequisite that can’t be changed.

    How can IAM help with crime?

    IAM stops fraud by checking that the person accessing data or making a purchase has the legal right to do so. For instance, telecom firms may reduce the number of fake SIM-swap transactions by using biometric authentication for high-risk account changes. IAM solutions that are layered assist in finding suspicious access patterns in the banking business, like logins from devices or IP addresses that the user doesn’t recognise. When this happens, they can either set off alarms or stop transactions.

    Adaptive authentication is becoming more widespread in US and UK banks. This method gives access only after the system calculates a risk score based on behaviour and context. Fraud detection systems, conversely, won’t work as well as they could if they aren’t directly linked to identity and access control technology. Banks in Nigeria are already focusing on building stronger security stacks. For example, if an account looks like it might be fake, identity and acccess management systems should immediately suspend all high-level rights until the account is verified.

    What about the implementation? Are there any problems particular to Nigeria?

    Cultural, regulatory, and technical problems come up throughout the implementation. Even organisations of medium size and many small and medium-sized businesses still don’t know the basics of cyber hygiene. Some people keep their passwords in spreadsheets, while others send them by email. There isn’t much experience with identity and access management (IAM) in the llocal market, which leads to incomplete or incorrect installations. Government systems have the same challenges, such as identity systems that are outdated or don’t work well together.

    The price is another problem. IAM solutions may cost a lot initially, but they are worth the money because they stop pricey breaches and damage to your brand. Currently, cloud-based identity and access management tools are cheaper and more useful for Nigerian businesses than big on-premise systems. Consciousness, on the other hand, is the most essential thing that is missing. Many people in charge still don’t realise how bad cyber events may be until they happen to them.

    How can we get more people in Nigeria to utilise IAM?

    I suggest doing a couple of things. First, organisations like the NITDA and the NCC should set minimum IAM standards, especially for healthcare, telecommunications, and financial technology enterprises that handle private information. These should include mandatory multi-factor authentication (MFA), regular access audits, and ways to let people know when there has been a breach. Small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) can employ IAM systems with the help of tax breaks or other financial advantages. Third, there is a need for more IAM professionals in the area. IAM should be part of the cybersecurity courses offered by colleges, universities, and training centres.

    The government can also set an example. NIMC, JAMB, and immigration are all national digital services that need to create secure systems for managing identification and access. These frameworks should do more than secure passwords; they should also use biometrics and behavioural analytics. A coordinated effort between the public and private sectors is needed to enhance Nigeria’s information assurance maturity quickly.

    Would you like to add anything else?

    IAM is more than just a technological fix; it means changing how things are done and how people think about things. To cut down on fraud, eliminate data leaks, and build a digital economy that people can trust, Nigeria needs to start thinking of identity as the new perimeter.

    IAM’s structure can help with this. Data from other countries shows that when identity and access management (IAM) is done right, it dramatically lowers the chances of breaches, insider fraud, and regulatory exposure.

    We should stop thinking of cybersecurity as a cost and consider it an essential part of infrastructure, like roads or power. It costs more to do nothing than to take steps to avoid problems.

  • Olori Afolabi urges Youth Corpers to acquire skills for brighter future

    Olori Afolabi urges Youth Corpers to acquire skills for brighter future

    Olori Janet Afolabi Queen of Apomu Kingdom has advised about 3,000 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to acquire skills and be financially independent. 

    Olori Afolabi emphasised the importance  of skill acquisition and entrepreneurship.

    “Skills acquisition is not just an advantage, it unlocks your potential and positions you to take charge of your future,” she said. 

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    The speech sparked lively reactions from the Youth.

    The event was organised by NYSC , Osun Secretariat , on June 17 at the NYSC  Orientation Camp Ede, Osun State. 

  • Pantami Foundation disburses ₦18m scholarship to 232 indigent students

    Pantami Foundation disburses ₦18m scholarship to 232 indigent students

    In a significant move to boost education, the Professor Isa Pantami Foundation (PIP Foundation) has disbursed over ₦18 million in scholarships to 232 indigent students from various tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

    The 2025 phase includes beneficiaries from Gombe State University (GSU), North-Eastern University Gombe, Federal University of Kashere, University of Maiduguri and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, among others.

    At Gombe State University, the scholarship was executed in two batches. The first, disbursed to the university in May 2025, assisted 86 students with ₦5,428,664. The second, released June 19, supported 140 students with ₦10,835,466.

    The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Gombe State University, Professor Sani Ahmed Yauta, expressed profound appreciation to Professor Pantami for his sustained investment in youth and education, calling the gesture timely and impactful.

    Students from other institutions received ₦1,832,000, bringing the total disbursement for the 2025 academic session to ₦18,096,130. The donation builds on the 2024 programme, which supported over 100 students, mostly from the Federal University of Kashere.

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    Two GSU recipients, Fatima Ali and Edom Adam, described the scholarship as a life-changing intervention and a huge relief to their families. The Gombe State Students Association (GOSSA) also commended the initiative.

    GOSSA, which played a vital role in the screening and nomination process, explained that the selection of beneficiaries was based on financial need as well as academic merit.

    In a statement, the Professor Isa Pantami Foundation extended its gratitude to university administrators, programme coordinators, and volunteers who contributed to the successful execution of the 2025 scholarship scheme.

    The organisation encouraged public and private sector leaders to invest in education, echoing Nelson Mandela’s famous words: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

    It urged students to complement their academic pursuits with vocational and digital skills to become self-reliant, stating that “adaptability and self-sufficiency are essential tools for navigating today’s dynamic socio-economic landscape.”

  • Elevating contemporary jazz with vision and emotion

    Elevating contemporary jazz with vision and emotion

    Contemporary jazz is an umbrella term which describes the diverse array of new music in the jazz idiom produced and recorded in the late twentieth century and early twenty-first century. The  term encompasses two main subgenres, modern jazz and smooth jazz. Modern jazz, which draws influence from pop music, funk, and ’60s jazz fusion, became popular among jazz enthusiasts and casual listeners alike in the 1980s and 1990s. The subgenre draws on diverse elements, from hip-hop to rock and world music, but retains the improvisation and modal chord structure of post-big band, bebop, and hard bop.

    However, in his latest instrumental EP High Altitude, UK-based seasoned saxophonist Oluwatosin Ajayi, professionally known as Tsax, presents a sophisticated and emotionally rich contribution to the modern jazz landscape. With a sound that effortlessly bridges cinematic flair and intimate storytelling, High Altitude is a compelling showcase of artistic identity and technical excellence — a testament to his rising influence within the global creative space.

    The three-track project is a deliberate, curated experience. Rather than overwhelming the listener with complexity, Tsax opts for clarity, texture, and thematic coherence. From the opening number, “Encore,” there’s a sense of elevation — With a Funky Vibe for an opening track, the Horns-line coupled with the introduction of his saxophone, is a perfect description of the EP title, “High Altitude”. Just imagine yourself on a flight taking off. It’s like listening to James Brown sing, but on the Saxophone.

     It sets the tone for what unfolds as a sonic metaphor for aspiration, growth, and spiritual ascent.

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    Meanwhile, Resonance, the second track, introduces a slightly more rhythmic structure, with Tsax showcasing his Range of Dexterity on the saxophone, also as a Jazz Artist. The Jazz composition pulses with a quiet urgency, as though it were echoing the heartbeat of lived experience. The phrasing is lyrical, yet dexterous, almost vocal, demonstrating his ability to let the saxophone speak where words fall short. It really did resonate while listening to this beautiful work of art.

    The EP concludes with Amen (Prayer Without Words), a spiritually intended piece that functions as a benediction. Here, Tsax strips back even further, letting the raw timbre of the saxophone command the space. This track transcends one Particular genre, it speaks to the universal power of music as a vessel for reflection and healing. Amen in itself is a word of affirmation and assurance of prayers answered.

    Inspired by the likes of Gerald Albright, Mike Aremu, Nelson Rangell, Dave Koz and Kirk Whalum, Tsax has carefully shaped his sound into what I describe as a Sweet melodious tone on his Saxophone.

    Beyond its musical qualities, High Altitude represents a significant cultural statement. As a Black instrumentalist crafting original, non-commercial work in a genre often underrepresented in mainstream discourse, Tsax — now actively contributing to the UK’s colourful music scene — reclaims space in a legacy of jazz innovators. His work challenges boundaries and contributes to the enrichment of contemporary British and global culture, especially as he continues to integrate within the UK’s creative ecosystem.

    High Altitude is not merely a listening experience; it’s a declaration — of artistry, of elevation, and of cultural contribution. It affirms Tsax as a saxophonist of vision and purpose, with a growing body of work that meets the standard of international excellence. It’s totally worth your listening pleasure.

  • Expert seeks robust health investment for national prosperity

    Expert seeks robust health investment for national prosperity

    By Christiana Ohimai

    The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) Advanced Medical Services Limited (Medserve), Dr Tolulope Adewole, has stressed the need for robust investment in the health sector to achieve national prosperity.

    He delivered  the 6th Annual Arthur Mbanefo Lecture Series, in celebration of the 95th birthday of Sir Arthur Christopher Mbanefo at the Arthur Mbanefo Digital Research Centre (AMDRC), University of Lagos (UNILAG).

    Adewole, who spoke on the theme: “A Healthy Nation is a Wealthy Nation: The Role of Impact Investments and Sustainable Financing in Nigeria,” underscored the importance of strategic capital allocation to healthcare infrastructure, human resources, and technology to  enhance  national economic development.

    He described  public – private partnerships ( PPPs) as  critical tools for advancing health systems in contexts where innovation, speed, and scale are required.

     “In Nigeria, the Institute of Genomics and Global Health (IGH) offers a compelling case study of how PPPs can be leveraged to drive scientific discovery, local capacity development, and global health security through genomic technologies.

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    “Investing in health is not just a moral imperative; it is a strategic economic move as robust healthcare infrastructure catalyses productivity and national development,” he said.

     Vice Chancellor Prof.  Folasade  Ogunsola noted that the annual lecture series has consistently ignited transformative ideas, shaping UNILAG’s strategic vision and re-inforcing its commitment to research-driven solutions for national challenges.

    She emphasised UNILAG’s role in harnessing technology to advance health and economic progress. She described health as a national imperative, adding that a healthy population is essential for progress.  The VC advocated for sustainable funding, cross-sector collaboration, and recognition of healthcare as a critical economic asset.

    Prof. Ogunsola hailed Mbanefo for his philanthropy through AMDRC, which has reshaped the university’s leadership perspective. She also praised  the chairman of the event,  Group Managing Director of Sahara Group, Mr. Kola Adesina, for his  recent donation of a simulation laboratory to UNILAG.

    She equally thanked the AMDRC Board led by Mr. Ernest Ebi, for  sustaining the centre’s vibrancy since its official transfer to the university in 2020.

    Mbanefo expressed hope that the lecture series becomes not just a tradition, but a platform for action that will bring change to the nation

    The event also featured a cake-cutting session in  celebration of Mbanefo’s 95th birthday.

  • Don decries imbalance in Emeritus Professorship conferment

    Don decries imbalance in Emeritus Professorship conferment

    By By Goodluck Nwabor

    Emeritus Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of Benin(UNIBEN), Prof.Patrick Edobor Igbinovia has decried the imbalance in the conferment of Emeritus Professorship in the country, stressing that the number of  women who have been conferred the honour remains low,while it  is also   rare among  private universities.

    He delivered the  first Emeriti Professorship public lecture in Akin Deko auditorium at UNIBEN.

    He spoke on: “Academicism, Intellectualism and Perspicacity: An exploratory and Disquisitionary Discourse on Emeriti Professorship in the Nigerian Context.”

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    He said that Emeritus  Professorship is being awarded based on demonstrated and recognised scholarship, administrative acumen and unimpeachable moral character during a  meritorious academic tenure. According  to him, elevation to the rank represents the pinnacle of an individual’s  intellectual power, scholarly prowess, scholasticism and profound eruditeness in academia.

    The don said: “Nigerian women are rarely given the honour, for example, since the establishment of the University of Port Harcourt in 1975, it has produced only one Emeritus Professor, Emeritus Professor Bone Willie Abbey of the Department of Biochemistry;  University of Lagos in its 63 years has only two Yetunde Mercy Olumide and Modupe Ogunlesi; while University of Benin founded in 1970 does not have a single one.”

    Igbinovia charged universities to unite their Emeritus Professors and assign them part-time roles which will help to form think-tanks for the institutions in their retirement days.

    He equally warned that the title should continue to be reserved or given to individuals on the basis of proven or demonstrated merit, unblemished character and morality, integrity, intellectual capacity,  academic accomplishments, administrative acumen and capability, scholarly qualifications and potential for continuous and future public utility, not to be politicised as a parting gift for outgoing Vice Chancellors, political upstarts or individuals who are mentally incapacitated in their fields.

  • ASCON to retool faculty, upskill personnel

    ASCON to retool faculty, upskill personnel

    The Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON) has reiterated its commitment to fulfilling its mandate of strengthening human capital development, ensuring operational excellence, and enriching public service. Thus, it is poised to retool its faculty and overhaul its system for effective service delivery, ABIKE SANUSI (LASU) reports

    When President Bola Tinubu appointed Mrs. Funke Adepoju as the new Director General of the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Badagry, the president desired an administrator who would not only deliver on the mandate of the college, but reposition it in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Nevertheless, the new ASCON boss hit the ground running. This was evident when she organised  a three-day strategic and change management retreat aimed at aligning its operations with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The retreat, held in collaboration with Innovators Beyond Borders had as theme:  “Rebranding for Transformation.” It was an avenue for senior and mid-level managers to gain more knowledge in  intensive sessions focused on institutional transformation and public service efficiency. It held on its campus in Badagry  from June 11 to 13, 2025.

    Mrs Adepoju stressed the need for the institution to evolve from being a traditional training centre to becoming a key strategic player in Nigeria’s governance reform landscape.

    She described the retreat as a turning point for the institution, which has been pivotal in public service training and human capital development since 1973.

    “The essence of this retreat is to ensure ASCON plug fully into the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.  We must adapt to the ever-changing landscape of public administration and management. This retreat is about redefining our approach and strengthening our national impact.

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    “We need to make things get better, it is not magic, but we must work on it. There is nothing they teach in places like Harvard that faculty people here cannot do. But we must package ourselves well and sell our brand. I would not want to use the words lost glory as I have come with positive mindset. We need the power of visibility. So much is being done but may be lack of publicity of our activities is the bane. At age 52, we need to upgrade our facilities and the government is looking in that direction. I can tell you that just about two weeks ago, some management staff of Nigeria Customs Service were here for training.

    “The policy of the government now is capacity building – we must be adaptable as the world is changing. The retreat is to upskill our own faculty and retool them too.

    “Our mandate is to train people in the public and private sectors including those in the paramilitary. Even individuals can come. Our charges are affordable. We are a management development institute and we have come to stay and we have the capacity to help individuals and organisations develop operational excellence in their daily activities.

    “Our strategic planning is to focus on certification, leadership, global partnerships to improve on service delivery. We are also focusing on operational excellence and we are calling on people and organisations to come here for training that will help them enrich public administration by developing their capacities. We are invaluable to public service delivery.

    “We have world class facilities for retreat and training. We can train 1,025 persons at a go. We have a 500 seater capacity auditorium, 300 room hostels, 63 chalets recreational facilities, gym, swimming pool among others and we are even upgrading them.

    “The Federal Government is supporting us. This year, 2025, the government has made provision for solar power for the college in the budget.  Public and private individuals can come here, as we are affordable. We train people all year round. Our mandate is to focus on global partnerships, develop our faculty and expand our curriculum to be future ready.

    “We are calling on all states of the federation to leverage ASCON for their capacity-building needs. With the right support, we can go further together,” she said.

    The DG underscored  the need for the institution  to evolve with new ideas and strategies to remain relevant.

    “Our institution has long been a beacon of knowledge, innovation, and leadership development in Nigeria. But to remain relevant and impactful, we must continually assess and refine our strategies. The theme encapsulates our commitment to redefining our approach, enhancing our capabilities, and strengthening our impact,” she added.

     Chief Executive Officer of Aplus Trainers Limited, one of the retreat consultants, Mrs Titilope Ojo,  said the initiative was designed to transform ASCON into a globally recognised brand.

    “ASCON has been around since 1973, and for us, this marks a milestone. We envision building the college into the Harvard of Nigeria for the public sector. The new DG came in with a vision to achieve just that,” she said.

     Deputy Director of Studies at  the Department of Management Studies, Dr Abiola Ayeola described the retreat as timely and innovative,adding that it is about rebuilding and rebranding the institution to better serve the public sector.

    “The DG has brought fresh energy and ideas, and it’s exciting to witness these changes,” she said.

    Director of Business Management and Entrepreneurship Studies, Dr John Ayuba  hailed the DG for initiating the retreat, noting it was the first of its kind in the college’s history.

    “This has never happened in ASCON before. It’s a bold and important step toward rebranding and repositioning the institution. Everyone is aware of the direction we’re heading, and it’s clear that no one is being left behind,” he said.

    Chairman of the Organising Committee, Mr. Babatunde Eniayejuni, said: “Things are evolving rapidly, and ASCON must adapt. This retreat is part of our commitment to increasing staff capacity to keep pace with innovation and the broader transformation within the public sector.”

  • Our woes, by students with disabilities

    Our woes, by students with disabilities

    Students with disabilities in tertiary institutions across the nation have chronicled their challenges in the quest for quality education, from intimidation to ridicule, to discrimination, their educational journey has not been exciting. They stressed the need for the government to introduce policies that aid inclusion, while also advocating world-class facilities and programmes to make learning worthwhile, WONDERFUL ADEGOKE (UDUS) reports

    Mustapha Ibrahim Kofarbai is in a serious fight to keep his dreams of being successful alive. Despite his hearing impairment, Kofarbai demonstrates resilience, even when hope rises, it is still a long walk to the podium of glory.

    His academic journey has been a rollercoaster. After losing his ability to hear in 2002, he faced several challenges, recalling being mocked and verbally bullied. However, determined to forge through these academic hurdles, he enrolled in Government School for the Deaf in Malmufashi, Katsina State, where he found a sense of belonging; although he least expected it would be so distant when he completed his secondary school education in 2013. Years later, unknown to him, his admission to study B.ED (Special Education), at Federal University, Dustin-ma, Kastina State (FUDMA) in 2021, would strip him of the sense of belonging he dearly cherished.

    Kofarbai navigates the bitter-sweet terrain of tertiary institutions, knowing the challenges his quest for formal education entails. Throughout his life and educational career, he encounters problems with people, struggles with friendships, and overcomes communication barriers. However, he notes that challenges on campus surpass all others, with discrimination being the most significant.

    Kofarbai’s painful ordeal aligns with the realities of nearly 250 million Nigerians who have at least one form of disability, according to the  World Health Organisation (WHO) estimation.

    In addition, the United Nations (UN) emphasised  that inclusive education ensures teaching methods and curriculum, policy and practice of education are accessible to all students (at all levels) without discrimination. According to the United Nations, placing students with disabilities in mainstream classes without these adaptations is not inclusion.

    Similarly, Suwidi Mustapha Kogawa, a 300-Level student at FUDMA, has faced several challenges since his admission to study Special Education in the 2021/2022 academic session. Despite attending lectures, he struggles to keep  it up.

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    “One of the challenges I face is the absence of a sign language interpreter in class,” he noted with  sadness.

    Unarguably, Kofarbai and Kogawa’s plight highlights the need for inclusive education. In January 2019, Former President Muhammad Buhari signed the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018 into law. The act aimed at making provisions for the full integration of PWDs into society, states that “all public schools, whether primary, secondary or tertiary, shall be run to be inclusive of and accessible to persons with disabilities”, and every school should have special trained personnel to cater for the educational development of PWDs.

    Moreover, Kogawa’s colleagues have been resourceful, helping with translation and offering support. However, he’s disappointed in the management’s approach.

    “Although the issue was tendered before the Vice Chancellor, no sign language interpreter has been appointed to this moment,” he said.

    Since Bello Yusuf Maiglass, an indigene of Tsafe Local Government Area in Zamfara State, gained admission to Federal University Dustin-ma, he wondered how things had deteriorated so fast. As an advocate of  inclusivity, he stressed the need for equal access to education as a fundamental right, adding that aside from providing sign language interpreters, universities  play a crucial role in ensuring accessibility in classrooms and beyond.

    The Secretary General of the National Association of Deaf Students, Federal University Dutsin-ma Chapter, Yusuf commended  Prof. Armaya’u Hamisu Bichi, the Vice Chancellor of FUDMA, for offering free accommodation to students with disabilities. However, the 28-year-old noted that more can be done. He cited  the Federal College of Education Bichi’s 50 percent discount on school registration fees for students with disabilities as a positive example and suggests implementing policies that would promote inclusivity.

    Yusuf said  that developing a deaf-friendly culture on campuses  requires access to technological devices, which would also help reduce stigmatisation. He acknowledged the University of Ilorin’s Centre for Supportive Services for the Deaf, which provides students with disabilities in deaf centres access to technology.

    Kofarbai’s enthusiasm, once daring for learning, now seems to have reclined, as the weight of his struggles betrays his efforts. Though slightly inured to the challenge of a sign language interpreter, he remains drowned in his own shadow; his countenance, in total alienation to defeat.

    “I’m always staying lonely in class,” he recalled,  his voice lethargic. Kofarbai describes his experience: “I go to school, attend lectures, and sit like a perfect goat.” According to him, he collects notes from classmates and studies in the library to gain knowledge on missed concepts.

    Pushing through these challenges, Kofarbai stressed the need for accessibility to education.

    “It is through education that deaf children can grow up with good attitudes. Deaf children, unlike their hearing peers, learn to speak at school: they can’t be moulded by their parents due to the communication barriers that lie between them.

    “Moreover, investing in their education isn’t a waste, as deaf children are not only useful to their parents but to society in general; they are goal-oriented,” he added.

    Building on his personal experiences, Kofarbai serves as the President of the National Association of Deaf Students, FUDMA Chapter, where he urged school authorities to create an office within the Student Union Government to address the needs and concerns of students with disabilities.

    Nigeria National Association of the Deaf (NNAD) to provide support

    National Secretary-General, Nigeria National Association of the Deaf (NNAD),Timothy Adejumo  emphasised the association’s commitment to ensuring no deaf student is denied access to education and inclusion.

    “To standardise sign language learning, NNAD developed the Nigerian sign language dictionary. We are currently seeking sponsorship to print and distribute copies of this dictionary to tertiary institutions and libraries nationwide,” he said.

    He further added that the association has been engaging government agencies, academic institutions, and policymakers. “NNAD has been advocating for the official recognition of Nigerian Sign Language (NSL) as a national language and the primary mode of communication for deaf students in school to ensure sign language interpretation services are enforced in tertiary institutions,” he said.

    Adejumo explained that NNAD organised the National Summit on Nigerian Sign Language in Abuja, where they actively engaged with the National Universities Commission (NUC), National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), and Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).

    “At the summit, we pushed for learning materials, deaf-friendly infrastructure, ensuring that deaf students are not excluded from academic opportunities,” he added.

    Varsity authorities on top of the situation

    When contacted, Dr Ayuba Idris, Deputy Dean of Students’ Affairs, FUDMA,  insisted that there’s nothing as seclusion.

    “We value inclusion. The only issue we are having and I’m still pushing is for them to have sign language interpreters,” he said.

    Dr Ayuba noted that although fellow students who often interpret for them during lectures are busy with their own studies, the school hires an interpreter whenever an important programme is being held.

    “Some of them are intelligent, but because they don’t have interpreters, for them to read English and manuals on their own can be an issue. This is the concern I am pushing to the Dean. It’s not that we are doing it intentionally; I’m pushing this issue for their benefit. We want the school to employ at least five interpreters for them.”

  • Mixed reactions trail govt’s N45,000 stipend to technical students, others

    Mixed reactions trail govt’s N45,000 stipend to technical students, others

    Students in tertiary institutions across the country have bared their minds on the free tuition, accommodation, and feeding for students enrolled in technical colleges across the country as well as the monthly N45,000 stipend introduced by the Federal Government. As the government begins implementation of the policy aimed at fast-tracking the development of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector and expandong enrollment at the sub-tertiary level, it remains to be seen whether it will expand similar support to students in other tertiary institutions since the Nigerian student community is diverse and dynamic, CALEB CHIEMERIE OKECHUKWU (ABSU) reports

    In a landmark policy move that may redefine Nigeria’s approach to education and human capital development, the Federal Government has announced free tuition, accommodation, and feeding for students enrolled in technical colleges across the country. The announcement, made under the auspices of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope administration, marks a bold stride in the administration’s ambition to reposition the country’s education sector to serve the nation’s industrial and economic goals more directly.

    Additionally, it also  announced a monthly N45,000 stipend for technical college students across the country.

    The Executive Secretary of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Idris Bugaje, said the new policy aimed to fast-track the development of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector and expand enrollment at the sub-tertiary level.

    Bugaje added that, beyond the monthly stipend, the government would also cover teaching fees and pay industry-based supervisors (known as “master class” instructors) where students undertake industrial attachments and finance the cost of skill certification.

    “With this, young people will find it more attractive to come to a technical college, acquire skills qualifications, get jobs locally and even beyond the borders of Nigeria,” Bugaje said.

    “This way, the whole sector is being repositioned. We are at the moment facing what you may call either a resurrection or a rebirth of TVET.

    “During colonial days and the early part of our independence, TVET had received attention. But, since the 1980s, we have been going down the drain.

    “That is why the number of technical colleges has dropped to 129 at the moment, compared to 15,000 senior secondary schools in Nigeria.”

    Bugaje said  Tinubu had allocated a N120 billion grant to support students under the new TVET initiative.

    The grant, he said, would be disbursed through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).

    “The N45,000 is not a loan, but a grant. Students who enjoy this are not going to pay back. We want to encourage more people to enrol in technical education,”  he said.

    To sustain and expand the programme, Bugaje said the minister of education is championing a legislative bill to establish a National Skills Fund under a new Nigerian Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF).

    He said the bill is expected to be presented to the national assembly soon.

     Polytechnics, monotechnics, and innovation enterprise institutes are central to vocational education at the tertiary level.

    Technical colleges, vocational enterprise institutes, skill training centres, and informal apprenticeship schemes operate at the sub-tertiary level.

    The TVET drive is emphasising hands-on skills in carpentry, ICT, plumbing, construction work, agriculture, CNG vehicle conversion, and renewable energy, among other vocations.

    The  Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students Engagement, Comr.  Sunday Asefon, noted that  the policy aims to prioritise skill acquisition over the overdependence on academic certificates. He emphasised that the initiative is intended to produce a generation of practically skilled Nigerians who can directly contribute to national development, reduce unemployment, and foster local innovation.

    “This policy is not just about giving students free meals or beds. It is about investing in the future builders of Nigeria and artisans, technicians, inventors– who will drive industrialisation and help reduce our dependence on foreign products and expatriate services,” he said.

    The Renewed Hope agenda, central to President Tinubu’s governance model, includes educational reform as a key component. By empowering technical students, the administration believes it can foster a workforce that is responsive to Nigeria’s evolving socio-economic demands, particularly in technology, infrastructure, renewable energy, and other technical sectors.

    Jubilation in Technical Colleges, resentment in other institutions

    While the initiative has been welcomed with enthusiasm by students and staff in technical colleges, the announcement has sparked a wave of criticism, disappointment, and calls for equity from students in other tertiary institutions such as universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.

    For Agatha Odey, a first-year student of Banking and Finance at the University of Calabar, the announcement was disheartening.

    “As a student, I’ll say that if the president approves a monthly stipend and free education for students in technical colleges, students in other tertiary institutions should also be considered. We are all students working hard to build a better future for ourselves and for Nigeria. Singling out a group sends the wrong message,” she said.

    She suggested that the government explore turning the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) into a non-repayable monthly allowance for students across tertiary institutions.

     “That way, no one feels left behind, and the policy can have a broader impact,” she added.

    Jemima Iwegbu, a third-year Dentistry student at David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, echoed similar sentiments.

     “It’s not a fair system. This policy gives the impression that the rest of us in universities and health institutions are either unimportant or financially stable, which is far from the truth. Many of us struggle to pay fees, secure accommodation, and feed. We are not asking for luxury– just fairness,” he said.

    Legal and logical objections: a case for balanced policy

    For some students, the issue goes beyond emotions and enters the realm of logic and policy coherence.

    Chibuike Miracle Okoli, a 300-Level Law student at Nnamdi Azikiwe University(UNIZIK), Awka, was skeptical about the rationale given by the government.

    “I wonder how free tuition, feeding, and accommodation in technical colleges directly equates to prioritising skills, productivity, and innovation. There is a lot of political rhetoric being thrown around. If the government wants to support students, it should be structured and evidence-based, not favouring one group while ignoring the needs of others,” he said.

    Chibuike added a more nuanced take on the president’s responsibilities: “The president’s commitment is to improve citizens’ quality of life. That commitment, when it comes to students, should manifest in the form of grants, soft loans, internship programmes, and empowerment schemes for all. He is not bound to do it in one particular way, but equity should be the guiding principle. You don’t uplift one group by ignoring the others.”

    A cautionary note on “Skills Over Certificates”

    Another student, a third-year Veterinary Medicine student at the University of Ibadan, who preferred to remain anonymous, offered a critical perspective on the narrative of “skills over certificates.”

    “It’s a good move– but a partial one.  “This whole argument about ‘prioritising skills over certificates’ is not very solid. Every society needs both skilled workers and certified professionals—doctors, lawyers, engineers, researchers. Even the teachers in technical colleges hold certificates.

    “If we continue pushing this false binary, we risk devaluing formal education in a dangerous way. The government needs to balance vocational training with traditional academia rather than frame it as one against the other,” he said.

    Supportive voices: a  different perspective

    However, some students have welcomed the move, seeing it as a step in the right direction.

    Sunday Temple Ogechi, a second-year Medicine and Surgery student at Abia State University(ABSU) Uturu, praised the government’s intentions.

    “My reaction is that the Federal Government has done well to assist students. Yes, there’s room for more inclusion, but we must also appreciate what has been done so far. This policy has the potential to change lives, and that should not be ignored,” he said.

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    Sunday urged fellow students to continue engaging the government constructively.

    “Let us suggest how it can be expanded to reach more people,” he added.

    Looking ahead: can the policy be broadened?

    Education policy experts have weighed in on the development, with many calling for a more inclusive approach. Some suggest that while the technical college initiative is commendable, its success may depend on how it is integrated into the larger educational ecosystem.

    Towards a more inclusive future

    As the government begins implementation of this policy, the spotlight remains on whether it will expand similar support to students in other tertiary institutions. The Nigerian student community is diverse and dynamic, and while this initiative may solve challenges for one group, it raises fundamental questions about inclusion, fairness, and national unity.

    In the end, true development lies not just in building skilled manpower for industry, but in ensuring that every Nigerian youth– regardless of the institution they attend– is given the opportunity to thrive, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s future.

    For now, the debate continues, and so does the hope– for a future where no student is left behind.