Wednesday, July 29, 2026

APC Set to Present Tinubu With 2027 Presidential Flag, Certificate of Return After Direct Primary

By
Kazeem Busari
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to formally emerge as the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress for the 2027 general election, as the ruling party prepares to present him with its certificate of return and party flag on Sunday in Abuja.

According to a State House press release issued on Saturday, the presentation ceremony will take place at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre following the nationwide collation of results from the APC presidential direct primary election.

The event is expected to attract key figures within the ruling party, including APC governors, members of the National Executive Committee, the National Working Committee, lawmakers from the National Assembly and other senior party stakeholders.

Tinubu participated in the party’s presidential direct primary earlier on Saturday at his ward in Ikoyi, Lagos, where he voted alongside the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.

In a statement posted on his official X account after the exercise, the president defended the APC’s internal democratic process and highlighted the role of grassroots participation in sustaining democratic institutions.

“Today, I participated in the APC Presidential Direct Primary at my ward in Ikoyi, Lagos, alongside my dear wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON,” Tinubu wrote.

The president said democracy thrives through citizen participation and strong institutions rather than “noise” and “speculation.”

“Democracy is not sustained by noise, speculation, or borrowed platforms. It is sustained by citizens who show up, party members who believe, institutions that endure, the grassroots, and a political family rooted in the people,” he stated.

Tinubu also declared that the APC remained firmly structured across the country despite mounting political opposition ahead of the 2027 election cycle.

“The APC remains focused, organised and deeply grounded across Nigeria. Others may gather around grievance. We gather around structure, service, and the work of nation-building,” he said.

He added, “Together, we will continue to renew hope, strengthen our democracy, and build a stronger Nigeria for all.”

The development effectively positions Tinubu as the APC’s standard bearer for a second term bid in the 2027 presidential election, with the ruling party expected to use Sunday’s ceremony to formally launch its re-election campaign momentum.

Nigerian Troops Kill 12 ISWAP/Boko Haram Fighters, Foil Deadly Attack Along Cameroon Border

By
Laziz Olatunde
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Troops of the Nigerian Army under the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, have repelled a coordinated attack by suspected ISWAP and Boko Haram terrorists in Kirawa, Borno State, killing at least 12 insurgents during a fierce gun battle along the Nigeria-Cameroon border axis.

The military disclosed on Saturday that the attempted assault occurred in the early hours of May 22, 2026, when terrorists tried to infiltrate positions occupied by troops of the 153 Task Force Battalion and allied forces in Sector 1 of Operation HADIN KAI’s area of responsibility.

According to the Nigerian Army, the terrorists’ movement was quickly detected by troops who responded with what it described as “overwhelming firepower” alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), forcing the insurgents to abandon the operation and retreat toward the Cameroon axis with heavy casualties.

In a statement posted on its official X account, the Army said, “The attack was swiftly detected and met with overwhelming firepower from alert troops and CJTF, who held their ground and contained the assault.”

The military further stated that Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance assets, supported by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI and partner forces, provided coordinated operational support throughout the engagement.

Following the firefight, troops reportedly recovered several weapons and combat equipment from the terrorists, including AK-47 rifles, rocket-propelled grenade systems, ammunition and a PKT machine gun.

“Following the encounter, troops confirmed the neutralisation of 12 terrorists, while several others were observed retreating with gunshot wounds, as indicated by blood trails along their withdrawal routes,” the Army stated.

The operation forms part of ongoing Operation DESERT SANITY and SIEGE OPERATIONS aimed at sustaining pressure on insurgent groups operating across the North-East theatre.

Military authorities said troops, in collaboration with the CJTF, have maintained dominance in the area while exploitation operations continue to track fleeing insurgents and recover additional weapons and logistics.

The Army reaffirmed its determination to sustain offensive operations against terrorist elements across the region until they are “completely neutralised across the theatre.”

The military high command also commended the troops for what it described as their “gallantry, utmost professionalism, and swift response,” noting that the successful repulsion marked the third such operational success recorded within the week.

Hull City Return to Premier League After McBurnie’s Dramatic Wembley Winner Sinks Middlesbrough

By
Fortune Temitope
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Hull City's Lewis Coyle lifts the trophy after winning promotion to the Premier League. Photo: AP

Hull City are back in the Premier League after nine years away following a dramatic 1-0 victory over Middlesbrough in the Championship playoff final at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, with Oli McBurnie scoring a stoppage-time winner in sweltering conditions.

The Scottish striker struck in the fifth minute of added time to seal promotion and spark wild celebrations among Hull supporters, capping a remarkable turnaround for a club that narrowly avoided relegation to League One last season only on goal difference.

McBurnie, who endured a tense night before the match, admitted afterward that he sensed the decisive moment would eventually come.

Hull City’s late winner against Middlesbrough.

“We felt we’d have one chance and I felt like it was written for me to get it,” McBurnie told Sky Sports. “I didn’t think it would be so late on, but what a feeling.”

“I couldn’t sleep last night, I was looking forward to this game so much, I am delighted,” he added.

The victory secures Hull a return to English football’s top flight for the first time since their relegation at the end of the 2016-17 campaign. Hull and Middlesbrough had both earned promotion together during the 2015-16 season before suffering relegation from the Premier League a year later.

Saturday’s playoff final, often described as the richest one-off match in world football because of the huge financial rewards attached to promotion, carried an estimated value of at least $270 million in future revenue for the winning side.

The match itself was a tense and cagey affair for long stretches, with both sides struggling to carve out clear-cut opportunities in the scorching Wembley heat. Hull came closest before halftime when McBurnie’s glancing header took a deflection off a Middlesbrough defender and clipped the top of the crossbar.

The game opened up after the break, but neither goalkeeper was seriously troubled as fatigue appeared to set in, raising expectations of extra time and penalties.

However, Hull delivered the decisive blow deep into stoppage time. Yu Hirakawa whipped a dangerous cross into the box from the left flank, and Middlesbrough goalkeeper Sol Brynn could only parry the ball into the path of McBurnie, who smashed home from close range into an empty net.

The defeat extended Middlesbrough’s miserable record at Wembley, with the club now having lost all six of its appearances at the national stadium.

Middlesbrough’s presence in the playoff final had already generated controversy following the dramatic semifinal against Southampton. Boro had initially been eliminated before being reinstated after Southampton were expelled for spying on Middlesbrough training sessions. Southampton’s appeal against the punishment was dismissed last week, clearing the way for Middlesbrough’s place in the final.

Nigeria Customs Intensifies Crackdown on Terror Funding, Money Laundering

By
Laziz Olatunde
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The Nigeria Customs Service has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with security and intelligence agencies in the fight against terrorism financing, money laundering, wildlife trafficking and other forms of transnational organised crimes threatening national and regional security.

Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, made this known on Wednesday during a study tour by participants of the Operational Level Countering the Financing of Terrorism and Regional Security Course 2 at the Customs Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.

The delegation, drawn from the National Defence College, visited the Service as part of efforts to deepen institutional understanding and cooperation in tackling evolving security threats linked to illicit financial flows and organised criminal networks.

Speaking during the engagement, Adeniyi stressed that combating terrorism financing and cross-border crimes requires stronger intelligence sharing, coordinated enforcement strategies and sustained inter-agency synergy among security institutions.

“For us to get ahead of these criminals, we must continue to work together and subject our individual mandates to broader national security objectives,” the Customs boss stated.

He described Nigeria’s recent removal from the Financial Action Task Force grey list as a major achievement that has improved investor confidence and enhanced the country’s global financial credibility.

According to him, Nigeria’s inclusion on the grey list previously created difficulties for Nigerians conducting international transactions, including restrictions on the use of Nigerian-issued bank cards abroad.

Adeniyi explained that the responsibilities of Customs have expanded significantly beyond traditional revenue collection and border control, noting that trade-based crimes such as undervaluation, overvaluation, illicit wildlife trafficking and illegal exportation of African resources now constitute major financial and security threats.

He disclosed that the Service is currently working closely with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit and airline operators to implement automated currency declaration systems aimed at improving transparency and curbing illicit financial movements across borders.

The Customs boss also commended ongoing capacity-building efforts within the Service and praised officers from various formations nationwide for participating actively in specialised security and anti-financial crime programmes.

Earlier, the Team Lead and Course Director of the Counter Terrorism and Counter Insurgency/Countering the Financing of Terrorism Unit at the National Defence College, Dr. Adam Abdullahi, underscored the critical role of financing in sustaining terrorist operations globally.

“The lifeline of terrorism is financing, and tackling it cannot be done by one institution alone,” Abdullahi said.

He emphasised the importance of stronger cooperation among the Department of State Services, the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies to effectively combat terrorism and organised criminal activities.

In a presentation during the programme, the officer in charge of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Unit of the Nigeria Customs Service, Assistant Comptroller Mas’ud Salihu, warned that criminal syndicates are increasingly exploiting global supply chains and international connectivity to move illicit goods and funds across borders.

Salihu highlighted the role of Customs officers in enforcing currency declaration regulations and intercepting prohibited items such as arms, narcotics and other contraband materials.

He called for deeper local and international partnerships to strengthen intelligence exchange, improve border surveillance and enhance enforcement against transnational criminal networks operating across multiple jurisdictions.

Video: Thai Police Bust Nigerians in AI Deepfake Romance Scam After Cocaine Probe

By
Kazeem Busari
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Thai police have arrested six Nigerian nationals accused of operating a sophisticated AI-powered romance scam syndicate from a luxury riverside condominium in Nonthaburi, following an investigation that began with a cocaine trafficking case.

The suspects were apprehended during coordinated raids, codenamed Dark Room Crackdown, carried out on Friday at a high-end condominium complex near Phra Nangklao Bridge along the Chao Phraya River, authorities said.

The suspects are identified as Denis, 23 – overstayed by 726 days; Ejikeme, 24 – overstayed by 827 days; Ibekwe, 29 – overstayed by 1,166 days; Okorom, 26 – overstayed by 695 days; Nwosu, 30 – overstayed by 1,560 days; and Obielu, 35 – overstay status not specified.

Investigators disclosed that the operation stemmed from the earlier arrest of a Nigerian man identified as Patrick and three associates in April over alleged drug trafficking activities. During that operation, police reportedly seized assets valued at about $68,000, prompting a deeper financial investigation that uncovered suspicious transactions linked to several foreign nationals living in the condominium.

According to Thai authorities, the suspects had been residing in overcrowded luxury apartments under student visa arrangements despite not being enrolled in any educational institution or engaged in legitimate employment.

Police executed search warrants on three condominium units after intelligence suggested the apartments were being used as operational bases for online fraud activities. Officers reportedly forced entry after the occupants refused to cooperate.

One of the suspects allegedly attempted to escape by climbing over a balcony, while another was discovered hiding on a bathroom floor while allegedly warning occupants in neighboring apartments through text messages about the police operation.

During the raid, officers recovered 18 mobile phones, three laptop computers and three bank passbooks. Investigators said several of the seized devices were still logged into active romance scam conversations with victims at the time of the arrests.

Authorities revealed that the syndicate specialised in romance scams targeting older Thai women through fake online identities. The suspects allegedly posed as pilots, engineers, doctors and United States military officers to gain the trust of victims before manipulating them into sending money.

Police said the group used artificial intelligence-generated images of Western men and fake video calls to make the online personas appear authentic.

Investigators also recovered what they described as “sexy chat” scripts allegedly designed to emotionally manipulate victims into transferring money after being told that valuable packages were being held at customs and required clearance fees.

Thai police said the scammers relied heavily on psychological manipulation and emotional bonding to deceive victims into draining their bank accounts.

The six suspects are currently facing initial charges bordering on illegal association and immigration overstay violations, while additional fraud and romance scam-related charges are expected to follow as investigations continue.

Authorities said further inquiries are ongoing to determine the full scale of the operation, including possible international financial links and the total amount allegedly defrauded from victims.

Court Voids INEC’s 2027 Election Timetable, Cancels Deadlines for Party Primaries

By
Laziz Olatunde
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INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan

The Federal High Court in Abuja has nullified key aspects of the timetable issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission for the conduct of party primaries and nomination of candidates ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

In a judgment delivered by Justice Mohammed Umar, the court ruled that the timelines fixed by INEC for political parties to conduct primaries and submit, withdraw or replace candidates were inconsistent with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.

The court also set aside the commission’s May 10 deadline requiring political parties to submit their membership registers and databases as part of conditions for participation in the 2027 polls.

Justice Umar held that the electoral umpire lacked the legal powers to shorten timelines already guaranteed under the Electoral Act.

According to the judgment, the time frame announced by INEC for political parties to conduct their primaries and submit candidate particulars “is inconsistent with the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026.”

The ruling followed a suit instituted by the Youth Party seeking an order compelling INEC to comply with the 120-day pre-election deadline stipulated in the Electoral Act for submission of party registers and candidates’ particulars.

The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/517/2016, listed INEC as the sole defendant.

The plaintiff argued that under Sections 29, 82 and 84(1) of the Electoral Act 2026, INEC’s role is limited to receiving notices of party primaries and monitoring the process, but does not extend to fixing timelines within which political parties must conduct their primaries.

Justice Umar agreed with the argument and declared that Section 29(1) of the Electoral Act clearly provides that political parties are to submit the personal particulars of their candidates not later than 120 days before an election.

The court ruled that “INEC cannot lawfully abridge or limit that statutory period by prescribing a shorter timeframe in its 2027 election timetable.”

The judge further held that Section 31 of the Electoral Act 2026 allows political parties to withdraw and substitute candidates up to 90 days before an election, adding that INEC had no authority to impose an earlier deadline for such substitutions.

Before the judgment, INEC had directed political parties to submit their membership registers at least 21 days before their primaries and fixed April 21, 2026, as the initial deadline.

The commission later extended the deadline to May 10, 2026.

INEC had also confirmed on May 15 that all 22 registered political parties complied with the directive by submitting their membership registers in line with the Electoral Act 2026.

Nigeria, China Move to Deepen Trade Ties, Tackle Smuggling, Illegal Mining

By
Laziz Olatunde
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Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi (right) with the Ambassador-Designate to China, Lieutenant General Abdulrahman Dambazau (Rtd.) in Abuja on Wednesday.

The Nigeria Customs Service has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening legitimate trade relations with China while intensifying efforts to combat illicit trade, wildlife trafficking and illegal mining activities between both countries.

Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, made this known on Wednesday during a meeting with Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to China, Abdulrahman Dambazau, at the Customs Headquarters in Abuja.

Adeniyi said the renewed collaboration was aimed at improving bilateral trade operations, tightening enforcement mechanisms and ensuring a more secure and transparent economic relationship between Nigeria and China, which he described as Nigeria’s largest trading partner.

The Customs boss noted that Dambazau’s military and leadership background positioned him well for the diplomatic assignment in Beijing, expressing confidence in his ability to strengthen economic and trade cooperation between both nations.

According to Adeniyi, discussions during the visit focused on strategic trade relations, regulatory compliance and the operations of Chinese companies doing business in Nigeria. He revealed that some Chinese firms operating in Nigeria are already participating in the Service’s Authorised Economic Operator programme due to their compliance with international trade standards and customs regulations.

He further disclosed that the Nigeria Customs Service currently maintains a Customs Mutual Administrative Agreement with the General Administration of Customs of China to enhance trade facilitation and strengthen bilateral customs cooperation.

“Stronger engagement and continuous communication between the NCS and China will ensure more effective trade facilitation and mutual economic benefit,” Adeniyi stated.

The Comptroller-General stressed that the Service cannot function in isolation, highlighting the need for collaboration with relevant government agencies to harmonise operations and improve efficiency in trade facilitation. He added that trade statistics from both countries should align more accurately, noting that discrepancies in trade data analysis must be addressed through closer cooperation.

On enforcement, Adeniyi said the Service was working to ensure Nigeria does not become a transit point for illegal wildlife trafficking and other transnational crimes. He also called for stronger intelligence sharing and coordinated efforts to curb illegal mining and strengthen border surveillance.

In his remarks, Dambazau thanked the Customs leadership for the reception accorded him, describing the visit as his first official engagement with the Service since his appointment as Ambassador-Designate to China.

He said closer cooperation with the Customs Service would help him effectively manage Nigeria’s trade and diplomatic interests in China while maximising the economic benefits of the bilateral relationship.

Dambazau also highlighted the strategic role of Customs in supporting trade under zero-tariff arrangements for African countries, stressing the importance of reducing cargo clearance timelines, improving certification procedures and tightening regulations around imports from China.

“Stronger collaboration and continuous support from the NCS will ensure smoother trade processes and the full realisation of Nigeria and China trade relations,” he said.

Maguire ‘Shocked and Gutted’ After Tuchel Axes Him from England Squad

By
Justice Oladapo
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Harry Maguire
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has been sensationally omitted from Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the 2026 World Cup, prompting an emotional public response from the experienced centre-back.
In a statement posted on social media on Friday, Maguire expressed his deep disappointment after what he described as a strong club season. “I was confident I could of played a major part this summer for my country after the season I’ve had. I’ve been left shocked and gutted by the decision,” he wrote. “I’ve loved nothing more than putting that shirt on and representing my country over the years. I wish the players all the best this summer.”

The 33-year-old, who has earned over 60 caps for the Three Lions and previously captained the side under Gareth Southgate, had been recalled by Tuchel for March’s international friendlies but ultimately failed to convince the German coach of his place in the final 26-man party heading to North America. England’s squad for the tournament, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, is set to be formally unveiled on Friday.

Tuchel’s decision marks a significant shift from the Southgate era, during which Maguire was a regular despite fluctuating club form. Reports indicate the new manager has preferred alternatives such as Marc Guéhi, John Stones, Ezri Konsa, Dan Burn, and Jarell Quansah in central defence. The omission comes alongside other notable absences, including Phil Foden and Cole Palmer, while Ivan Toney has earned a surprise recall following a prolific season.

Reacting to Maguire’s public statement, Tuchel admitted he was taken aback. “I was a bit surprised [by his reaction], but I respect his personality a lot. I respect his quality a lot,” the England manager said. He acknowledged the defender’s frustration while standing by his selections aimed at squad balance and recent form.

Maguire’s family has also voiced strong feelings. His mother reportedly expressed being “disgusted” by the snub, while broader reactions from former players like Wayne Rooney have described the defender as “very unlucky” to miss out.

The news has sparked intense debate among fans and pundits, with many questioning whether experience and leadership qualities were undervalued in favour of younger or in-form options ahead of a major tournament where set-pieces could prove decisive. Maguire’s last major tournament appearance came at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Nigeria Open for Business, Shettima Tells Poland as Both Nations Seek Stronger Economic, Digital Ties

By
Kazeem Busari
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Vice President Kashim Shettima (right) with Poland's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Affairs, Krzysztof Gawkowski in Abuja on Thursday. Photo: State House
Vice President Kashim Shettima has declared that Nigeria is ready for business under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the Federal Government moves to deepen economic and diplomatic ties with the Republic of Poland across key sectors.

Shettima made the remarks on Thursday during a courtesy visit by Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Affairs, Krzysztof Gawkowski, to the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The Vice President said Nigeria was committed to strengthening cooperation with Poland in areas including defence, agriculture, maritime development and the digital economy, stressing that both countries possess strong opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships.

“Nigeria is ready for business and under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the country is committed to deepening ties with the Republic of Poland in different sectors of the economy,” Shettima said.

He noted that Poland has established itself as a leader in several strategic sectors and said Nigeria was interested in leveraging those strengths to drive development and investment.

“There is room for improved relations between our countries,” the Vice President stated, adding that the partnership could expand into “defence cooperation, digital economy, agriculture and other sectors where Poland has shown remarkable comparative advantage.”

Shettima also highlighted some of the major economic reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration since assuming office over two years ago, saying the policies were aimed at unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential and improving the investment climate.

“Since assumption of office over two years ago, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has unlocked the full potentials of the Nigerian economy,” he said.

“We have liberalised the foreign exchange market; we have removed subsidy on petroleum products; we have harmonised our tax laws such that companies coming into Nigeria will not be overtaxed and there is room for improvement in our relationship in critical areas.”

The Vice President further described Poland as one of Europe’s most progressive and strategic countries, noting that Nigeria seeks partnerships based on economic cooperation and long-term value creation rather than dependency on aid.

“There is room for enhanced mutually beneficial business relations between Nigeria and Poland. We believe in a truly beneficial relationship than on reliance on any country for aid,” he added.

In his remarks, Gawkowski described Nigeria as Poland’s most strategic partner in Africa and expressed optimism that the visit would open a new chapter of collaboration between both countries.

According to him, Nigeria possesses significant demographic and technological advantages that make it an important partner for long-term economic cooperation.

“Nigeria is a country with enormous demographic and technological potential, as well as Poland’s partner for development and long-term cooperation,” the Polish Deputy Prime Minister said.

He added that the engagement was expected to create “new momentum for cooperation in the areas of the economy, innovation, and digitization.”

FG Partners Coursera to Train Nigerian Youths in AI, Cybersecurity, Other Digital Skills

By
Fortune Temitope
-
Minister of Education Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa at the signing of a partnership with Coursera to launch the Digital Training Academy (DTA)

Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, has announced a landmark partnership between the Federal Government and Coursera aimed at equipping thousands of Nigerian youths with globally competitive digital skills.

Alausa disclosed the development during the ongoing Education World Forum 2026 in London, where he signed the agreement to launch the Digital Training Academy (DTA), a major initiative focused on expanding access to technology education and digital workforce development across Nigeria.

According to the minister, the programme will provide young Nigerians with world-class training in high-demand fields including Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing and Software Engineering.

In a statement shared on his official X account, Alausa said participants would also earn globally recognised certifications designed to improve employability and competitiveness in the international digital economy.

“Through this programme, young Nigerians will receive world class training in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, Software Engineering and other high demand digital fields, while earning globally recognised certifications valued by employers across the world,” he stated.

The minister revealed that the Federal Government has already funded 36,000 training licences in the first year of the initiative through partnerships with Coursera and Pluralsight.

He described the intervention as one of the largest government-backed digital skills investments in Nigeria’s history.

“In a landmark investment under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Federal Government has fully funded 36,000 licences across Coursera and Pluralsight in the first year alone ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent any Nigerian youth from accessing world class digital education,” Alausa said.

“This is one of the largest government funded digital skills investments in Nigeria’s history.”

The programme will be implemented in partnership with the National Open University of Nigeria and Yaba College of Technology, institutions expected to provide nationwide access, mentorship and industry-focused support for participants.

Alausa stressed that digital literacy and technical competence are becoming essential tools for economic competitiveness and national development.

“Digital competency is no longer optional. It is foundational. We are building a generation of young Nigerians that can compete, lead and thrive in the global digital economy,” he said.

The minister also expressed appreciation to Coursera, NOUN and YABATECH for collaborating with the Federal Government on the initiative, describing the partnership as a critical step toward preparing Nigerian youths for emerging opportunities in the global technology ecosystem.

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