The Nation Newspaper

Category: Education

  • IBUAM: Keyamo, Midala, others hail Balami, say Tinubu will win Borno in 2027

    IBUAM: Keyamo, Midala, others hail Balami, say Tinubu will win Borno in 2027

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Management, Festus Keyamo, has hailed Comrade Isaac Balami for establishing a private university, describing it as a development that will attract more people to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Speaking at the unveiling of the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM), Keyamo said the “transfer season” was still open for anyone willing to join the APC, urging Balami to take charge of political mobilization in Borno State.

    Commending Balami’s energy and vision, the minister recalled how the young entrepreneur first presented his dream of an aviation university to him shortly after his appointment.

    “The moment I was sworn in as Minister of Aviation, one of the first people who came to my office was Isaac Balami. He shared his plans for the aviation sector. I remember it was around his 39th birthday. He told me he had just established an MRO in Lagos and that the Isaac Balami University was on the way,” Keyamo said.

    He expressed surprise and admiration for Balami’s initiative at such a young age, adding that he was inspired to support him until the university received approval.

    “This is another feather to my cap as Minister of Aviation. I can proudly say I’ve delivered my own polling unit in this sector. This aligns with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to support the private sector and promote human capital development — two key pillars in our five-point agenda,” Keyamo added.

    He described IBUAM as a “revolutionary achievement,” noting that it is the first of its kind in Africa by combining a flying school, aviation professional training, and an aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility under one umbrella.

    Also speaking, the member representing Askira Uba Federal Constituency, Hon. Midala Balami, praised the university’s founder, describing him as a symbol of resilience and determination. He said with the unveiling of IBUAM, political opposition in Borno had been weakened, and the stage set for President Tinubu’s victory in 2027.

    “Congratulations to Isaac Balami for completing 40 to 50 percent of the campaign for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.

    Balami expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, Keyamo, Seyi Tinubu, Captain Chris Najomo, and others who contributed to the success of the project. He said his decision to remain in Nigeria and invest locally, despite the ongoing brain drain, was driven by his passion to contribute to nation-building.

    Balami recounted his humble beginnings, noting how his parents sold their properties to support his education.

    “The university is not just another tertiary institution; it is tied to an aircraft maintenance and overhaul facility in Lagos. Our goal is to produce 21-year-old graduates who can work anywhere in the world without supervision,” he said.

    He called on state governments, ministries, agencies, and political leaders to sponsor students on scholarships, emphasizing that profits from the university would be reinvested into society through his foundation.

    Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, announced scholarships for 100 female students willing to enroll in the university, noting that empowering young women in critical sectors aligns with President Tinubu’s vision for gender inclusion and national growth.

    The event was attended by dignitaries including the Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, as well as senators, permanent secretaries, and captains of industry.

    The convener urged all candidates who scored cut off points of 200 and above to quickly go to https://www.ibuam.edu.ng/ to register.

    It assured candidates that most of its scholarships will come from development  agencies, such as the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, and North East Development Commission, NEDC.

  • Senate wades in ASUU strike, to meet Education Minister Tuesday

    Senate wades in ASUU strike, to meet Education Minister Tuesday

    The Senate through its joint Committee on Labour, Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND, has waded into the ongoing two-week warning strike declared by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

    The Joint Committee in their efforts to end the ongoing strike by the University lecturers,  met with the leadership of ASUU on Friday  at the National Assembly and scheduled  meeting with the Minister of Education, Mr Tunji Alausa and the Executive Secretary of National Universities Commission (NUC ), Professor Abdullahi Yusuf Ribadu on Tuesday next week.

    Briefing journalists at the end of a closed door session the joint committee had with the leadership of ASUU, the Chairman,  Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFUND, Senator Muntari Dandutse (Katsina South), said the joint committee heard from ASUU about its grievances that led to the industrial action and pledged to engage the exercise arm of governance on their demands.

    “After meeting with the national leadership of ASUU on way out of the current strike and the looming indefinite one,  we have resolved to convene a very important meeting with relevant government agencies, particularly the Minister of Education and Executive Secretary of the NUC on Tuesday or Wednesday next week.

    READ ALSO: Nigeria to add about 130 million people by 2050, says World Bank

    “We also resolved to interface with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on the need to stop action on the proposed review of the  Certificate of Occupancy University of Abuja’s land,” he said.

    Before the closed door session, the National President of ASUU, Professor Christopher Piwuna,

    told the lawmakers that ASUU was demanding the improved funding of Universities by the Federal Government as contained in extant agreements between it and the federal government, as the way out of the present strike action.

    Sustainable investment in education according to him,  remains the only path to ending strikes and raising the global ranking of Nigerian universities adding that the ongoing two-week warning strike stems from longstanding issues that dates as far  back as 2011.

    “We engaged the Federal Government for eight years without tangible results. The Yayale Ahmed’s committee report, submitted in December 2024, was ignored until this industrial action began”, he said.

    On funding delays, Prof. Piwuna revealed that although the National Assembly approved N150 billion  for universities, only N50 billion has been released so far.

    Even that amount, he noted, remains stuck at the Ministry of Education, where the minister allegedly intends to share it among universities, polytechnics and colleges of education, despite separate allocations for those institutions.

    He cautioned that the N150 billion approved is specifically for universities must be used for the intended purpose.

  • Optiva Capital Partners celebrates Okeke’s 12th year leadership

    Optiva Capital Partners celebrates Okeke’s 12th year leadership

    Chairman of Optiva Capital Partners, Franklin Nechi, has paid tributes to Ambassador Amaka Okeke, Executive Director of Business Development, on the occasion of her 12th anniversary of outstanding service to the company.

    Nechi described Ambassador Okeke as “the embodiment of excellence, leadership, and unwavering commitment to Optiva’s mission of improving lives and expanding global access for Africans.

    “Over the past 12 years, Ambassador Okeke has been instrumental in shaping Optiva Capital Partners into the reputable and trusted institution it is today,” Nechi said.

    He added:  “Her strategic vision, resilience, and deep passion for service have driven our company’s success and established Optiva as Africa’s undisputed leader in investment immigration and wealth retention.”

    He lauded her for fostering a culture of innovation and excellence that continues to define Optiva’s corporate identity. 

    “Ambassador Okeke’s leadership style is distinguished by her ability to inspire and empower those around her. She has mentored countless professionals and helped position Optiva as a bridge connecting Africa’s potential to global possibilities,” he added.

    Okeke reflected on her remarkable 12-year journey at Optiva and how the company’s work has transformed countless lives across Africa.

     She shared touching stories of families and entrepreneurs whose lives were changed through Optiva’s investment immigration solutions.

    Read Also: MMA2 shines bright as Optiva leads 20-day Christmas Festival

     “I’ve witnessed first-hand how a second passport can secure a family’s future or even save lives. One of our clients passed away unexpectedly but because we had completed his family’s permanent residency process, his wife and children were able to relocate to Canada, where the children now enjoy free world-class education, and free top-quality universal healthcare. That is what we mean when we say we help clients secure their legacy,” she said. 

    She also spoke about the growing global aspirations of Africa’s High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs) who seek financial security, global access, and wealth diversification. 

    “Our clients want to be global — to access quality healthcare, education, and investment opportunities. At Optiva, we help them not just acquire second passports, but to build sustainable structures for wealth retention and growth across jurisdictions and currencies,” she explained.

    Okeke reiterated that Optiva Capital Partners is not merely an investment immigration firm but a comprehensive wealth retention institution committed to improving lives. 

    “Our mission is to protect, grow, and optimize our clients’ wealth,” she stated. “From investment immigration to wealth retention and insurance solutions, we offer bespoke, client-centered strategies. No two families are alike, and our approach reflects that reality. We help clients diversify their portfolios globally while ensuring their wealth continues to work for them — even long after retirement.”

    She also affirmed that Optiva’s long-term vision is to become Africa’s one-stop global advisory firm for families seeking access, opportunity, and financial sustainability. 

    “We’ve evolved from a global access company to a holistic wealth advisory firm that helps our clients retain and grow wealth through real estate, investment diversification, and global partnerships,” she said.

    Nechi reaffirmed confidence in  Okeke’s leadership and her continuing contribution to Optiva’s growth story.

     “Ambassador Amaka Okeke’s 12-year journey represents the spirit of Optiva — vision, resilience, and impact. 

    She has played a defining role in shaping our organization into Africa’s most trusted investment immigration brand. We are proud of her achievements and look forward to many more years of shared success,” Nechi concluded.

  • Schools charging tuition fees in foreign currencies should be closed – Alake

    Schools charging tuition fees in foreign currencies should be closed – Alake

    The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr Dele Alake says Schools in Nigeria charging tuition fees in foreign currencies should be closed.

    Alake made the call at the Nigeria Gold Day Celebration on the sidelines of the 10th edition of Nigeria’s Mining Week, themed `Nigeria Mining: From Progress to Global Relevance`, on Wednesday in Abuja.

    He criticised the practice and described it as a part of the leakages and loopholes in Nigeria’s economy threatening its growth.

    “ I am still going to make a proposal to the Federal Executive Council that all those schools in Nigeria that are charging in foreign currencies should be closed.

    “These are some of these leakages and loop holes that we say exist in our economy that people do not really take these things very seriously, “ he said.

    “ If you look at the foreign currency that goes into some of this is humongous

    “If your child is attending a school in Abuja or Lagos or somewhere in the country and is paying 10,000 pounds or 10,000 dollars as their fees that means you will be looking for naira to go and buy dollars.

    “Driving the value of dollar up, where as this school is in Abuja in Nigeria, you can`t go to UK establish a school and then be charging naira, it’s not done.

    “ Its only in this country that I see so many contradictory things that really demolishes the economy, “ he said.

    According to him, we must begin to change our value system and orientation in to things that are substantial, productive, constructive and regenerative for the progress in our nation.

    The minister said the Federal Government was introducing various measures, including digital mechanisms, to ensure that all leakages in Nigeria’s gold value chain were blocked and every loophole sealed.

    He said the move would reduce room for interpersonal transactions thereby reducing the propensity of corruption, which would further position Nigeria`s gold as one of the  global pillars of means of exchange of value.

    He said the Federal Government’s National Gold Purchase Programme (NGPP), implemented through the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF), was designed to shore up Nigeria’s foreign reserves and strengthen the naira.

    Alake explained that the NGPP, a component of the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Initiative (PAGMI), allows the government to buy gold directly from artisanal miners in naira, rather than spending foreign exchange to purchase gold internationally.

    Read Also: FG to boost foreign reserves base with locally sourced gold – Alake

    In her remarks, the Executive Director of SMDF, Hajia Fatima Shinkafi said that unlike global trends, gold exploration funding in Nigeria was at an upward trajectory.

    Shinkafi explained that, within the broader macroeconomic context, gold serves as a safe haven asset and encouraged conference participants to explore Nigeria’s gold opportunities.

    “We implore everyone here to examine Nigeria`s gold resources and support the minister`s efforts to make Nigeria a premier destination for junior miners.

    “In another year or so, lets look at this Nigeria`s Gold day 2025 as a pivotal turning point, “ she said.

    NAN reports that the Nigeria Mining Week, holding from October 13 to  15, is organised by Miners Association of Nigeria in partnership with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and the VUKA Group.

    (NAN) 

  • Digitalising initiatives in public schools take shape

    Digitalising initiatives in public schools take shape

    Teachers and pupils a few days ago showed that the Federal Government’s digitalisation initiatives in public schools was not a fluke at the flag-off of distribution of over 1,000 Interactive Smart Boards nationwide, 140 talking computers for learners with visual impairments; supply of 250 desktop computers for Second-Chance Schools to support ICT-enabled learning for out-of-school youths in public schools across the country. Stakeholders at the event, which took place in Lagos, asserted that the billions of naira spent on the initiatives were well-spent with the mastery displayed by the teachers and the pupils, Assistant Editor Bola Olajuwon reports

    THE Federal Government’s initiatives to digitalise public schools is taking shape if one considers the skills displayed a few days ago by teachers and pupils of Queen’s College, Lagos, at the landmark launch of the digitalisation of public schools organised by the Federal Ministry of Education, the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB).

    The event also witnessed the flag-off of distribution of over 1,000 Interactive Smart Boards nationwide, accompanying teacher training; provision of 140 talking computers for learners with visual impairments; supply of 250 desktop computers for Second-Chance Schools to support ICT-enabled learning for out-of-school youths in public schools across the country.

    Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa at various presentations of digital initiatives under the ministry asserted that the digitalisation initiatives of the ministry were vital for national growth because it would empower learners and educators with access to information and e-services, promote inclusion by reducing the digital divide, enhance and foster more informed, engaged citizens capable of participating in the digital society, skills and economy.

    Therefore, after watching the dexterity in handling the Interactive Smart Boards by the teachers and pupils, the minister asserted that the digitalisation of public schools was a bold declaration that Nigeria was ready to embrace the future of learning. The stakeholders and dignitaries at the event also agreed with his assertion.

    According to Alausa, the programme is aimed at ensuring that every child, regardless of background or location, has access to quality, modern and technology-enabled education.

    The digitalisation initiatives, Alausa said, reflect the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, “whose visionary leadership places education at the heart of national transformation”.

    At the event attended by leaders of State Universal Basic Education Boards, pupils and other stakeholders, the minister also announced the distribution of over 4 million core textbooks and 419,000 library resource materials to boost early-grade literacy and numeracy as well as upgrade of the Digital Resource Centre in Abuja as a national hub for teachers training, content development and data management.

    Before the event proper, the UBEC Executive Secretary, Aisha Garba, and her management team, including Deputy Executive Secretary (Technical), Rasaq Olajuwon Akinyemi, and Deputy Executive Secretary (Services) Tunde Segun Ajibulu and Lagos State SUBEB Chairman Dr. Hakeem Shittu, as well as his board members, watched as some teachers operated the digital equipment.

    How the govt is digitally transforming education system

    The minister said through initiatives such as NEDI (Nigeria Education Data Initiative) for evidence-based planning, the National EdTech Strategy to promote digital learning; renewed focus on STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine) and Technical Education; and expanded teacher and learner digital literacy training, the Federal Government was transforming Nigeria’s education system to meet the demands of the digital economy and build a globally-competitive and knowledge-based society.

    He argued that education should evolve with the world of work, innovation, and national competitiveness. “That is why we are embedding Al, EdTech, and digital literacy across curricula — ensuring our youths are equipped with STEMM, data and coding skills for the future.

    Read Also: Movement from private schools swells public schools’ enrolment

    “The shift from chalkboards to smart boards marks a transformation from traditional, one-directional learning by repetition teaching methods to dynamic, interactive, and technology-enabled active learning, enabling interactive classrooms, where students learn by engaging, exploring and creating. “These smart boards will allow teachers to integrate multimedia, digital textbooks, and real-time interaction into their lessons. Leaners will learn by touching, exploring, and engaging and not just listening,” the minister explained.

    Alausa noted that key reforms in education were anchored on data and integrity with NEDI harmonising national education data to improve resource allocation and accountability, NERD (Nigeria Education Repository and Databank) ensuring certificates carry a National Credential Number and QR Code for authenticity.

    These systems, he said, put Nigeria firmly on the path to data-driven education governance.

    To foster innovation, Alausa said the government was establishing STEMM and TVET centres nationwide in partnership with states and development partners; supporting the Science Teachers Association of Nigeria (STAN) to build capacity for STEMM educators to promote inquiry-based learning, embedding AI, robotics, and coding in curricula; and expanding teachers digital literacy and EdTech training to make classrooms smarter and teachers more effective, ensuring that the teachers are equipped to guide the learners of tomorrow.

    He added that with the Agence Francaise de Développement (AFD), the government launched the $40 million Blueprint-ICT-Dev Project to improve ICT infrastructure in 10 universities — supporting hybrid learning, data modernisation, and digital access for underserved communities.

    “Through UBEC, NITDA, and other agencies, we are extending these efforts to basic and secondary schools with broadband connectivity, tablets, and teacher training nationwide,” Alausa said.

    He lauded Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, UBEC and SUBEBs for their exemplary leadership and strong partnership in driving the ambitious digital transformation agenda in basic education with purposeful implementation and measurable impact.

    The digitalisation of education, he noted, is a continuous journey.

    At the event, benefiting  schools in Lagos included St Joseph Primary School, Ibowon, Epe; Queen’s College, Yaba, Lagos; Adeniyi Jones Primary school, Ikeja; Victoria Island Primary School, Eti Osa; Anglican Primary School, Ishawo, Ikorodu; and All Saints Anglican Primary School, Yaba.

    It’s a major milestone, says Garba

    The UBEC Executive Secretary, Aisha Garba, said the event marked a major milestone in the government’s collective journey toward transforming Nigeria’s basic education system through digital innovation. Garba added that it demonstrated the ministry’s and UBEC’s commitment to ensuring that no child, teacher or school is left behind in the ongoing global digital revolution.

    According to her, digital transformation has become the bedrock of progress across every sector — and education must not be left behind.

    “The world today is driven by knowledge and powered by technology. Digital transformation has become the bedrock of progress across every sector — and education must not be left behind.

    “ln this age, classrooms are no longer confined to four walls. Learning now happens through digital content, interactive simulations, and online collaboration. For our nation to remain competitive and to prepare our children for the realities of the 21st century, we must embrace technology-enabled education as a central pillar of our development strategy

    “Digital transformation in education is not merely about providing devices or connectivity and about rethinking teaching and learning — making it more engaging, inclusive, and effective. It allows teachers to personalise instruction, enhances students’ participation, and bridges the gap between rural and urban learning environments.

    “The use of Interactive Smart Boards is a clear demonstration of our resolve to bring technology directly into the classroom. These boards will transform traditional chalk-and-talk lessons into dynamic, visual, and participatory learning experiences.

    “Teachers will now be able to integrate multimedia content, simulations, and real-time feedback during lessons. Pupils can engage more actively — touching, responding, and participating in ways that make learning memorable. This is how education becomes not just a process of instruction but an experience of discovery.”

    She lauded the President and the Minister of Education for providing visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to repositioning education in Nigeria.

    Alli-Balogun: it shows govt’s commitment

     The Commissioner, Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, said the initiative was an attestation to the Federal Government’s commitment in harnessing the power of digital technology to enhance teaching and learning in our country.

    Alli-Balogun said the Lagos State was prioritising building world-class educational infrastructure, as evidenced by construction and inauguration of ultra-modern classroom blocks, integrated vocational training, and digital literacy initiatives under the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda.

    He described the move as a significant milestone in bridging the educational divide and ensuring equitable access to quality learning for all children.

    “The introduction of interactive smart boards in our public schools will revolutionise the way teachers teach and students learn. It will make lessons more engaging, enhance collaboration, and improve overall learning outcomes.”

    Alli-Balogun commended UBEC for its tireless efforts in promoting basic education and acknowledged the support of development partners, who contributed to the success of the project. He urged teachers, school administrators, and stakeholders to embrace the new technology and ensure its effective use in classrooms.

    Initiative was a watershed moment, says Shittu

    The Lagos State SUBEB Chairman, Dr. Hakeem Shittu, while welcoming the guests, said the event was not just another milestone; “it is a watershed moment, a vivid demonstration that the future we speak of is not distant, but a reality we collectively built.

    “This comprehensive digital initiative is a core component of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed hope initiative in alignment with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s transformative THEMES Plus Agenda, specifically under the crucial pillar of Education and Technology. Our commitment is clear: we are not just embracing the digital age; we are defining it for every child in Lagos and the country in general,” he said.

    ​He said the project aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus Agenda, particularly under the Education and Technology pillar.

    Dr. Shittu noted that the success of EKOEXCEL in the state had positioned Lagos as a national model for technology integration in education, adding that the new UBEC initiative would build on the existing digital infrastructure in the state.

    He said the collaboration between UBEC and LASUBEB would expand opportunities for both teachers and pupils, bridge the digital divide, and make learning in Lagos public schools more interactive and effective.“

    ​The world has moved from chalkboards to smart boards, from textbooks to tablets. For Lagos, the Centre of Excellence, ensuring our pupils and students are globally competitive is not an option it is our absolute mandate. We recognise that the Universal Basic Education Commission’s mandate, which we proudly implement here in Lagos, requires us to constantly innovate.

    “At LASUBEB, we have keyed fully into this transformative vision. Our flagship programme, EKOEXCEL (Excellence in Child Education and Learning), is a testament to the state government’s resolve to digitise classroom learning and empower teachers with technology for improved lesson delivery. “

    Through EKOEXCEL, we have introduced smart teaching devices, automated lesson plans, and data-driven evaluation systems that have significantly raised the bar of public basic education in Lagos.

    “The success of this initiative has positioned Lagos as a national reference point for technology integration in education and has created a solid foundation upon which today’s UBEC digitisation project can thrive:

    He expressed optimism that the project would usher in a new era of digital transformation that would redefine the future of basic education in Nigeria. Principal of Queen’s College, Lagos, Dr. Oyindamola Adetutu Obabori and her pupils thanked the minister and UBEC for including the school in the distribution.

  • Fed Govt reaffirms commitment to support girl-child education

    Fed Govt reaffirms commitment to support girl-child education

    The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to advancing quality education for the girl-child, describing it as a cornerstone of national growth.

    Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, made this known during the commemoration of the 2025 International Day of the Girl-Child (IDGC) in Abuja.

    The event was organised in collaboration with the Adolescent Girls’ Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Project and other key stakeholders.

    Ahmad, who was represented by the Director of Senior Secondary Education Department, Hajiya Binta Abulkadir, said the ministry was implementing the National Policy on Gender in Basic Education, aimed at eliminating gender disparities in access, education and competition for children.

    “The theme of this celebration speaks directly to our national values and aspirations. As a nation, we have taken bold steps in recent years to support the girl-child, particularly in the area of education.

    “This initiative of supporting the girl has been in the history since 2012. Currently, we are implementing the National Policy on Gender in Basic Education. The ministry has made a significant stride in the education of girls in several fields.

    “With the help and assistance of NGOs, we are expanding safe learning spaces, providing instruments of support and providing scholarships and school feeding programmes for our young children.

    ”We are working, of course, in multiple sub-centres to develop a new approach to the better education of the girl child,” she said.

    She added that the ministry had built upon its commitment to strengthening the gender-friendly policies for the education of the girl-child, creating a world inclusive not just for men and women, and empowering the girl child.

    “Most importantly, we’re listening to girls’ voices, their problem-solving and decision-making, their leadership, and to report anything they are not comfortable doing.

    Read Also: AHF seeks supportive policies for access to healthcare, empowerment of girl-child

    “We are not in this alone, we are working with parents, communities, health-based leaders, educators, donors and drivers, etc.

     “Time has passed when the values of the girl-child was underestimated. But today, the value of the girl-child is highly estimated. The girl is a family supporter, a society builder, and a strong lead in both governance and policies,” she said.

    Also speaking, the National Coordinator of AGILE Project, Mrs. Amina Haruna, said the focus of the celebration was to eliminate the challenges girls face.

    She said that investment and support for girls’ empowerment and leadership initiative in the area of organising girls’ leadership, empowering girls, promoting equity, and creating safe spaces should be of priority.

    “I urge every relevant stakeholders’ to put their best in addressing these unique challenges girls face, both in their education, including gender-based violence, limited access to education, early marriage and health care, which AGILE project is providing us.

    “These challenges are in their voices and in their potential. Therefore, this day calls to all parents, leaders, educators, communities and government to raise our commitment to building a world where girls are safe, educated, empowered and also celebrated,” she said.

  • College celebrates student’s performance in COEASU scholarship competition

    College celebrates student’s performance in COEASU scholarship competition

    The authorities of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Umunze, on Tuesday, honoured Miss Fidelis Chinyere Blessing, a second-year student of Fine and Applied Arts, for her exceptional performance in the recently concluded national scholarship competition organised by the Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU).

    Blessing distinguished herself in the keenly contested examination, emerging as the first runner-up at the national level with a total score of 46 points, narrowly missing the top position by a single mark.

    Her performance earned her recognition and a cash reward from the college’s management during a reception held in her honour at the Provost’s Office.

    Earlier in the competition, Blessing had clinched the title of Best NCE Student in the South East Zone, a feat that came with a N500,000 cash prize from COEASU and qualification for the national grand finale held at the NCCE Headquarters, Abuja.

    She excelled above contestants from other Colleges of Education in the South East zone, including the Federal College of Education, Eha-Amufu; Nwafor Orizu College of Education, Nsugbe; Abia State College of Education, Arochukwu; Enugu State College of Education (Technical); and Benjamin Uwajumogu College of Education, Ihite Uboma, Imo State.

    In her remarks, the provost, Prof. Theresa Obumneme Okoli, extolled Blessing’s remarkable academic accomplishment, describing it as a testament to the College’s unwavering commitment to excellence in teaching and learning. She commended the student for bringing honour to the institution and lauded her as a worthy ambassador of the College.

    Read Also: Toromade, others bag professor of practice at Omniversity Imperial College

    Prof. Okoli noted that Blessing’s success at the national level reflects the college’s sustained efforts in nurturing intellectual curiosity, creativity, and discipline among students. She encouraged other students to emulate her example and reaffirmed Management’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating outstanding academic performances that bring prestige to the institution.

    The COEASU Chairman, FCET Umunze Chapter, Comrade Dr. Sunny Okeke, expressed delight at the student’s impressive showing on the national stage. He explained that the competition was rigorously supervised and keenly contested, adding that Blessing’s performance had further elevated the academic reputation of the College. Accompanied by the Chapter Secretary, Mr. Ndubuisi Onyemechara, Dr. Okeke commended both the student and the institution for their exemplary representation.

    Similarly, the Dean, School of Fine and Applied Arts, Mr. Chidi Uzor, described Blessing as a diligent and focused student whose passion for academic and artistic excellence has continued to yield impressive results.

    Other principal officers present at the reception included the Registrar, Dr. (Mrs.) Bessie C. Nkah and the Bursar, Mr. Ethelbert Echedo.

  • Women advocate boosts girls’ confidence through empowerment

    Women advocate boosts girls’ confidence through empowerment

    Author, content creator and women empowerment advocate, Loretta Uyoyo Adewoyin, recently took her inspiring ‘Her Rising School Tour’ to two secondary schools in Lagos, in celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child.

    It was aimed at empowering young girls with lessons on confidence, self-worth, and the power of positive words.

    The tour is one of Loretta’s initiatives focused on nurturing the next generation of confident and emotionally intelligent young women. This year’s outreach visited Elora College at Gloryland Estate, Isheri, and Great Lilies School at Governor’s Road, Lagos.

    Loretta spoke to the girls about true confidence, how positive words can shape their mindset and future and she also shared an illustration of a scientific experiment where two identical plants were spoken to differently – one with kind words and one with negative words.

    The plant that received positive words flourished, while the other withered. This showed them how words carry power, and how speaking kindly to themselves helps them grow.

    Read Also: Toromade, others bag professor of practice at Omniversity Imperial College

    She encouraged them to start using daily affirmations, saying positive things about themselves every day, even when they don’t fully believe it yet.

    In practical demonstrations, each girl took turns saying one thing she liked about herself and then shared kind words with a friend. In return, their friends also shared something they admired most about them.

    These activities helped boost their self-esteem and reminded them how much their words can build or break someone’s confidence.

    “Every young girl deserves to feel seen, confident, and capable. If they can start believing in themselves early, there’s nothing they can’t achieve,” Loretta said.

    The programme also featured Bells Queen’s Accents, a phonetics and diction training company that supported the outreach.

    The girls smiled home as their guests showered them with different gifts ranging from notebooks to affirmation cards.

  • College to develop students’ tech, entrepreneurial skills

    College to develop students’ tech, entrepreneurial skills

    Critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication and a special focus on developing students’ technical and entrepreneurial skills are imperative.

    This was made known by Principal of Dowen College, Lekki, Lagos, Dr. Adebisi Layiwola at the school’s Founder’s Day Anniversary and Prize Giving Ceremony in Lagos. It had the theme: “Excel Beyond Boundaries”.

    Layiwola noted that the college is offering innovative programmes aimed at sharpening 21st-century skills of students.

    She said the gathering was to recognise young achievers, whose diligence and excellence earned them awards for outstanding performance during the session.

    “We gather to celebrate our exceptional students- young achievers who have distinguished themselves not only in academics but also in various other areas of school life. In particular, we recognise those whose diligence and excellence have earned them awards for outstanding performance during the just-concluded session,” she said.

    Read Also: Fintech promises more creativity after award win

    The principal said the session’s theme, “Excel Beyond Boundaries”, underscored the need for students to put in their best in all endeavours.

    “Our theme reminds us of the need to put in our best in everything we do. We are indeed committed to encouraging students to strive for excellence in every aspect of school life, overcoming obstacles and challenges, fostering a mindset of continuous improvement and being the best versions of themselves at work and at play,” she stated.

    Guest of honour, Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Cordros Capital Ltd, Mr. Wale Agbeyangi, urged students not to be limited by circumstances and push beyond perceived limits.

    Addressing the students, Agbeyangi said:  “Your dreams are valid. No dream is too big if you are willing to work for it. The world you are entering is changing faster than ever before – technology, innovation, and creativity are rewriting the rules daily.

    “To thrive in this world, you must do more than pass exams; you must cultivate discipline, curiosity, and courage. Excellence is not an accident, it is a habit. It is built in the little choices you make each day: to study when it would be easier not to, to speak the truth when it would be easier to compromise, to push yourself when it would be easier to quit.”

  • Omniversity Imperial College USA appoints Baje as media director

    Omniversity Imperial College USA appoints Baje as media director

    Omniversity Imperial College LLC, Missouri, USA, in collaboration with Omniversity Lagos, has announced the appointment of Mr. Ayo Oyoze Baje as director of Media and Publicity.

    Baje brings to his role over three decades of distinguished experience in media, journalism, and public communication, spanning reputable institutions such as the Daily Times of Nigeria and other leading media establishments.

    His extensive background in editorial leadership, investigative reporting, and public enlightenment uniquely positions him to strengthen Omniversity’s media presence, enhance public engagement, and promote the institution’s innovative academic vision globally.

    Read Also: Thousands benefit from MFM Bayelsa free medical outreach, surgeries, free glasses

    As director of Media and Publicity, Baje will oversee the development and implementation of strategic communication initiatives, coordinate press relations, manage institutional visibility, and foster constructive dialogue with both local and international media partners.

    Speaking on the appointment, Professor Tokunbo Akeredolu-Ale, President/Dean of Omniversity Imperial College LLC, described Baje as “a seasoned communicator and thought leader, whose professionalism and insight will greatly advance Omniversity’s mission to redefine higher education through global partnerships, academic innovation, and integrity”.

    The management and governing council congratulate Baje on his appointment and look forward to his impactful contributions toward strengthening the Omniversity brand across media platforms.