FG's Renewed Hope Skills Programme Equips Nigerians for Self-Reliance

The Federal Government's Renewed Hope Vocational and Skills Training Programme is gaining momentum across Nigeria, as thousands of participants undergo intensive practical training aimed at equipping them with employable skills, promoting entrepreneurship, and reducing poverty through sustainable livelihoods.

Implemented by the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA) under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, the nationwide initiative is expected to benefit 18,510 Nigerians. The programme was officially flagged off by the Minister, Dr. Bernard M. Doro, as part of the Federal Government's commitment to empowering citizens through skills acquisition rather than short-term relief.

In a statement issued by the Minister's Senior Technical Adviser on Information Systems and Data Analysis, Dr. Abimbola Fasanu, the initiative was described as a significant milestone in Nigeria's poverty reduction strategy. According to the statement, the programme marks a shift from temporary interventions to sustainable economic empowerment by providing practical skills that enable beneficiaries to earn steady incomes, build resilient livelihoods, and become financially independent.

Speaking on the third day of the training at the Women Development Centre in Agege, Lagos, the Programme Coordinator and Centre Head, Mrs. Kemilat Opasaye, said the initiative reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda by equipping vulnerable Nigerians with practical skills for self-reliance.

She explained that participants are receiving hands-on training in a wide range of vocational trades, including tailoring, welding, carpentry, catering, baking, agro-processing, bead and jewellery making, as well as other income-generating skills. At the end of the two-week training, beneficiaries will receive trade-specific starter packs to help them launch their own businesses.

According to Mrs. Opasaye, the programme goes beyond teaching vocational skills. It is designed to create sustainable livelihoods, reduce unemployment, encourage entrepreneurship, and empower beneficiaries to become employers of labour.

"This initiative is about giving Nigerians the opportunity to acquire practical skills that will improve their lives and enable them to build sustainable sources of income," she said.

The programme aligns with the Ministry's broader vision of moving vulnerable Nigerians from dependence to economic self-reliance through sustainable empowerment initiatives. It also complements the Ministry's One Humanitarian–One Poverty Response System (OHOPRS), which integrates humanitarian assistance, social protection, skills development, and economic inclusion into a coordinated national framework for poverty reduction.

Facilitators at the Agege training centre praised the programme, describing it as a practical intervention that combines classroom learning with intensive hands-on experience to prepare participants for self-employment and long-term success.

Beneficiaries also expressed gratitude for the opportunity. Miss Uche Obinna, a participant in the baking class, said the training had given her the confidence to establish her own business. Similarly, Mrs. Adebisi Muhammed, a graduate undergoing tailoring training, described the programme as a pathway to financial independence through entrepreneurship.

The Renewed Hope Vocational and Skills Training Programme is being implemented simultaneously across the country as part of the Federal Government's drive to expand economic opportunities, create sustainable livelihoods, and lift more Nigerians out of poverty through skills development, enterprise support, and inclusive social protection.

As the programme continues to roll out nationwide, it represents another step towards building a more productive, self-reliant, and economically empowered Nigeria, where practical skills become the foundation for lasting prosperity.#

Tinubu, Governors, APC Leaders Storm Jos for Humanitarian Minister Bernard Doro's Daughter's Wedding

 

President Bola Tinubu, represented by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, led a distinguished gathering of political leaders, government officials, traditional rulers, clergy, and other dignitaries to Jos, Plateau State, for the wedding ceremony of Ichi Doro, daughter of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Bernard Doro.

The wedding between Ichi Doro and Fidelis Iliya was solemnised at ECWA Gospel Church 2, Jos, in a colourful ceremony that celebrated faith, family, and national unity.

The event drew high-profile guests from across Nigeria, including Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, former Governor Joshua Dariye, senators, members of the House of Representatives, deputy governors from Benue and Yobe States, members of the Federal Executive Council, APC leaders, traditional rulers, and senior officials of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction.

Tinubu Commends Doro's Commitment

Delivering President Tinubu's message, Prof. Yilwatda described Dr. Doro as a loyal, dependable, and dedicated member of the administration whose commitment to public service continues to make a positive impact on the lives of Nigerians.

He said the President appreciates the minister's efforts in driving programmes aimed at supporting vulnerable citizens and reducing poverty across the country.

Congratulating the newlyweds, Yilwatda urged them to build a marriage founded on love, mutual respect, patience, and faithfulness.

"The President celebrates with your family on this joyful occasion and wishes the couple a lifetime of peace, happiness, and fulfilment. May they emulate the virtues of dedication, integrity, and commitment that have distinguished Dr. Doro in both public and private life," he said.

Mutfwang Praises the Doro Family

Governor Caleb Mutfwang described Dr. Doro as a longstanding friend whose family is known for humility, compassion, and generosity.

According to the governor, the groom has become part of a respected family whose values will serve as a strong foundation for the new home.

"The groom is fortunate to become part of this family. I pray that God grants the couple a peaceful, fruitful, and enduring marriage," Mutfwang said.

Build Your Home on God, Cleric Advises

In his sermon, the officiating minister, Rev. Ayuba Asheshe, encouraged the couple to make God the centre of their marriage.

He emphasised that enduring marriages are built on trust, forgiveness, sincerity, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment, urging the couple to remain faithful, prayerful, and patient throughout their journey together.

Special prayers were offered for the couple, their families, and Nigeria, while hymns and choral renditions added beauty and reverence to the church service.

Celebration of Culture and Unity

The reception that followed featured colourful cultural displays, traditional dance performances, and musical entertainment showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Plateau State.

Beyond the celebration, the gathering provided an opportunity for political associates, friends, and well-wishers from across the country to honour the Doro and Iliya families, reflecting Dr. Doro's longstanding relationships across political, religious, and social circles.

An Emotional Father's Gratitude

Speaking during the reception, an emotional Dr. Bernard Doro expressed appreciation to everyone who travelled from different parts of Nigeria to celebrate with his family.

"I am overwhelmed by the calibre of personalities and the number of people who have come to celebrate with my family today. I sincerely appreciate every one of you for identifying with us on this special occasion," he said.

Describing the occasion as one of the happiest moments of his life, the minister thanked God for witnessing his daughter's wedding and prayed for divine guidance over the couple.

He also advised the newlyweds to make peace, understanding, patience, and mutual respect the pillars of their marriage.

The reception was chaired by APC's Gombe South Senatorial Candidate, Chief Jerry Joseph Damara.

Other notable guests included APC Plateau State Chairman Rufus Bature; Senators Diket Plang; federal lawmakers Yusuf Gagdi and Ishaya David Lalu; former Minister of Women Affairs Dame Pauline Tallen; Dalyop Fom; traditional rulers; and several other distinguished Nigerians.

The celebration ended on a joyous note as family, friends, and guests offered prayers and goodwill wishes for Ichi and Fidelis, expressing hope that their union would be blessed with enduring love, peace, and prosperity.#

Dangote Refinery Secures $2.5 Billion in Historic Equity Deal, Sets Stage for Major Expansion

 

Africa's Largest Publicly Disclosed Private Equity Placement Signals Strong Global Investor Confidence

Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE (DPRP) has achieved a major financial milestone by successfully raising approximately $2.5 billion through a landmark private equity placement.

The transaction, widely regarded as Africa's largest publicly disclosed primary equity private placement, marks a new chapter in the company's growth journey and highlights strong investor confidence in the refinery's long-term vision, operational strength, and strategic importance.

A First for Dangote Refinery

This is the first time DPRP has raised equity from investors outside its original shareholder base. The successful capital raise underscores the refinery's emergence as one of Africa's most attractive energy and industrial investments.

The funds will be used to expand the refinery and petrochemical complex, strengthen the company's financial position, and provide greater flexibility to pursue future growth opportunities.

Global Investors Back Africa's Energy Future

The equity offering attracted strong participation from a broad mix of investors, including international and African institutional investors, sovereign-related investment vehicles, development finance institutions, strategic partners, and private investors.

Among the notable participants were the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) and India Infra Buildco, an investment platform facilitated by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank). Their participation reflects growing confidence in the refinery's long-term prospects and its role in transforming Africa's energy landscape.

Aliko Dangote: A Strategic Milestone

Commenting on the successful transaction, Aliko Dangote, President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited and Chairman of DPRP, described the equity placement as a defining moment for the company.

He said the transaction broadens and institutionalises the company's shareholder base while providing additional capital to complement existing cash flows and external financing.

Dangote also reaffirmed the company's commitment to expanding Africa's refining and petrochemical capacity, reducing reliance on imported petroleum products, and strengthening the continent's energy security.

Investor Confidence Reflects Operational Excellence

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals, David Bird, said the overwhelming investor response demonstrates confidence in the company's operational performance and future growth.

According to him, the exceptional demand for the equity placement reflects DPRP's strong execution capability, operational excellence, and the confidence investors have in its leadership and long-term potential.

Positioned for Long-Term Growth

With the successful completion of the equity placement, Dangote Petroleum Refinery is well-positioned to accelerate its expansion plans while reinforcing Africa's drive towards energy independence through world-class refining and petrochemical production.

The strong investor response further strengthens confidence in the company's vision to deliver sustainable value for shareholders and contribute significantly to Africa's industrial and economic development.

DPRP also expressed appreciation to its professional advisers and strategic partners whose expertise and support were instrumental in the successful completion of the transaction.

IPMAN Applauds Dangote Refinery, Warns Fuel Imports Are Driving Up Petrol Prices

The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has applauded the Dangote Petroleum Refinery for ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply across the country while warning that continued fuel imports are pushing petrol prices higher and placing unnecessary pressure on Nigeria's economy.

The association called on the Federal Government to urgently review the fuel import licences recently granted to some petroleum marketers, arguing that the policy has failed to reduce pump prices and instead encourages the importation of more expensive petroleum products.

Speaking in Abuja, IPMAN's National Publicity Secretary, Chinedu Ukadike, said the import regime has become counterproductive, as some importers are proposing to sell Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at about ₦1,350 per litre, significantly above the ex-depot price offered by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.

According to him, importing petrol at a higher cost than locally refined products defeats the purpose of promoting competition and protecting consumers from rising fuel prices.

Ukadike stressed that the continued reliance on imported fuel has exposed Nigerians to unnecessary price volatility, while making it increasingly difficult for marketers to plan their operations due to fluctuating import and foreign exchange costs.

He also expressed concern over the quality of some imported petroleum products, alleging that certain fuel imports may not meet Nigeria's required specifications. He urged regulators to strengthen quality control measures to ensure only standard products enter the country.

IPMAN further noted that paying for imported fuel in foreign currency continues to increase demand for the US dollar, placing additional pressure on the naira and contributing to higher petroleum product prices nationwide.

The association maintained that Nigeria's long-term energy security lies in supporting domestic refining. According to IPMAN, greater patronage of locally refined petroleum products would reduce foreign exchange demand, stabilise fuel prices, strengthen the refining industry and create more employment opportunities.

The marketers particularly commended the Dangote Petroleum Refinery for maintaining steady fuel supply despite global geopolitical uncertainties, including tensions involving Iran and concerns over disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz.

IPMAN noted that since the commencement of operations at the Dangote Refinery, Nigeria has experienced improved stability in petroleum product supply, with fewer incidents of prolonged fuel scarcity that previously disrupted economic activities and daily life.

The association therefore urged the Federal Government, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) to prioritise policies that encourage local refining rather than expanding fuel import approvals.

It also called on the Presidential Committee overseeing downstream petroleum sector reforms to engage key industry stakeholders, including the Dangote Refinery, in developing sustainable measures to ensure affordable fuel prices and adequate supply for the domestic market.

According to IPMAN, Nigeria stands to benefit more by meeting local fuel demand through domestic refining while exporting surplus production to earn valuable foreign exchange. Such a strategy, the association said, would strengthen the naira, improve the country's balance of payments and enhance economic resilience.

IPMAN concluded that strengthening domestic refining remains the most sustainable solution to achieving affordable fuel prices, stable energy supply and long-term economic growth, while reducing the nation's dependence on costly imported petroleum products.#

Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu, Archbishop Martins Lead Tributes as Cardinal Okogie Celebrates 90th Birthday

                 

                           Gov. Sanwo-olu                     

Archbishop of the Metropolitan See of Lagos, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins

Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the Archbishop of the Metropolitan See of Lagos, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins, have paid glowing tributes to the Emeritus 

Arc hbishop of Lagos, Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie, as he celebrated his 90th birthday, 60th anniversary of priestly ordination, and 55th anniversary of episcopal ordination.

The triple celebration, held at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos, attracted religious leaders, government officials, and faithful from across the country who gathered to honour the renowned Catholic cleric for his decades of service to God, the Church, and humanity.

In a goodwill message delivered by the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Governor Sanwo-Olu described Cardinal Okogie as an iconic religious leader whose life has been marked by selfless service, courage, and dedication to nation-building.

The governor commended the Cardinal's immense contributions to the spiritual, social, and moral development of Lagos State and Nigeria, noting that his unwavering commitment to justice, peace, and the welfare of ordinary citizens has earned him widespread respect and admiration.

Sanwo-Olu also praised Cardinal Okogie for consistently speaking truth to power and serving as a moral compass for society. He prayed for God's continued grace, good health, and strength upon the Cardinal and reaffirmed the Lagos State Government's commitment to partnering with the Church in promoting moral values, social harmony, and human development.

Speaking during the celebration, Archbishop Alfred Martins called on Nigerian leaders to intensify efforts toward ensuring peace and security across the country. He urged government authorities to adequately equip and motivate security operatives while encouraging Nigerians to continue praying for the nation and its leaders.

Archbishop Martins described Cardinal Okogie as a devoted shepherd whose life reflects unwavering commitment to Christ and the Church. He noted that the celebration was not only a milestone event but also a recognition of a life faithfully dedicated to the service of God and humanity.

In his homily, the Archbishop Emeritus of Benin, Most Rev. Augustine Akubeze, praised Cardinal Okogie for his steadfast faith, prophetic voice, and unwavering commitment to justice, truth, and the poor. He prayed for God's continued strength and grace upon the Cardinal as he continues to serve as an inspiration to the Church in Nigeria.

The celebration highlighted Cardinal Okogie's enduring legacy as one of Nigeria's most respected religious leaders, whose contributions to the Church and society continue to impact generations.

Bishop Ighele Calls for Human-Focused Governance

                       Bishop Charles Ighele

The General Superintendent , Holy Spirit Mission, popularly known as Happy Family Nation, Bishop Charles Ighele, has called on the Nigerian government and political leaders to place the welfare and development of citizens at the heart of governance.

Speaking during an interaction with members of the Christian Faith Reporters Association (CFRA) in Lagos, the cleric stressed that the primary purpose of governance is to improve the quality of human life through access to quality education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and other essential services.

According to Bishop Ighele, political campaigns should move beyond promises of basic infrastructure and focus on policies that directly enhance the well-being of Nigerians.

“Anything apart from making the human being the centre of development does not work,” he said. “When God created the world, He created man as the reason for creation. Likewise, man is the reason for governance.”

The cleric argued that amenities such as roads, electricity, and pipe-borne water should no longer be celebrated as extraordinary achievements but regarded as basic responsibilities of government.

“Building roads should be normal. Providing water should be normal. Electricity should be normal. The real issue is improving the quality of human life. Education does not only develop the mind; it helps to produce civilized citizens,” he stated.

Bishop Ighele urged aspiring leaders to centre their campaigns on practical solutions that would improve citizens’ lives and effectively harness the nation's resources for sustainable development.

He expressed optimism that Nigeria could overcome its challenges if leaders and citizens engage in meaningful national conversations aimed at finding lasting solutions. According to him, the country's problems cannot be solved by a single individual but require collective effort and commitment.

Addressing the issue of protests, the cleric said leaders should pay attention to the grievances behind public demonstrations and use them as opportunities to drive reforms and national development.

Drawing lessons from the historical evolution of England, he noted that responsive leadership and people-oriented policies helped address social inequalities and improve living standards.

“The political class should ask themselves: What are the people saying? What is their pain? Why can't we send our children to the same schools attended by ordinary Nigerians? Why can't we use the same hospitals?” he queried.

He maintained that improving the quality of education, healthcare, and employment opportunities would significantly reduce social unrest and public dissatisfaction.

Using Singapore as an example, Bishop Ighele highlighted how visionary leadership focused on creating industries and jobs to secure the future of young people.

“Nigeria has the capacity to create jobs for its citizens. I prefer solutions to endless protests. However, people should not remain silent. Leaders must know that there is hunger, pain, and hardship in the land, and these challenges can be addressed,” he said.

Reflecting on Nigeria's past, the cleric called for a national reorientation programme that would instill values of civility, responsibility, and patriotism among both leaders and citizens.

He further linked the country's security challenges to social injustice, arguing that widespread inequality and poor governance have created fertile ground for crime and instability.

“In every country, there are people with criminal tendencies. But when social injustice becomes widespread, it fuels insecurity and disorder. Through proper leadership, education, and social reorientation, these issues can be addressed,” he concluded.

Bishop Ighele's remarks underscore the growing calls for a governance model that prioritizes human development, social justice, and improved living standards as the foundation for Nigeria's progress.#

Northeast Industrial Crisis Deepens as Insecurity Forces Closure of 60% of Factories — MAN DG

      Dr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir

The Director-General   Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Dr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, has raised concerns over the worsening impact of insecurity on industrial activities in the Northeast, revealing that approximately 60 per cent of industries in the region have shut down operations.

Ajayi-Kadir made the disclosure while receiving members of the Executive Council of the Congress of Industrialists and Corporate Affairs Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CICAN) during a courtesy visit to the association's headquarters in Lagos.

According to him, persistent security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, and other violent crimes, have created a hostile business environment that has forced many manufacturers to either suspend production or relocate their operations.

Insecurity Taking a Heavy Toll on Industry

The MAN Director-General noted that prolonged insecurity has severely disrupted supply chains, increased production costs, and displaced numerous industries that once played vital roles in job creation and economic development across the Northeast.

He explained that many industrial facilities in the region have become inactive, while potential investors remain reluctant to establish new manufacturing plants or expand existing operations due to concerns about the safety of personnel, equipment, and investments.

"The closure and displacement of industries have resulted in the loss of thousands of jobs, increased poverty levels, and reduced economic opportunities for residents of the affected states," he said.

Ajayi-Kadir stressed that sustainable industrial growth cannot thrive in an atmosphere of insecurity and urged the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.

He added that improved security would encourage displaced manufacturers to return, attract new investments, and help revive economic activities across the Northeast.

Call for Targeted Support

Beyond addressing security concerns, Ajayi-Kadir called for targeted intervention measures to support struggling industries. These include improved infrastructure, easier access to financing, and incentives aimed at rebuilding the region's industrial base.

Despite the challenges, he expressed optimism that the Northeast could reclaim its status as a major hub for manufacturing and commerce if security conditions improve and government support remains consistent.

Economic Reforms Showing Early Signs of Progress

The MAN chief commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for introducing bold economic reforms aimed at repositioning the nation's economy, noting that some policies have started yielding positive results.

However, he lamented that many Nigerians are yet to fully experience the benefits of these reforms due to the activities of economic saboteurs and other systemic challenges.

He urged Nigerians to embrace aggressive industrialisation as a pathway to reducing dependence on imported goods, strengthening local production, and building a more resilient economy.

Dangote Refinery Eases Pressure on Fuel Market

Ajayi-Kadir also praised the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, describing it as a strategic national asset whose operations have provided significant relief for Nigerians.

According to him, the refinery has helped cushion the impact of global tensions, particularly the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region, which could have triggered sharp increases in domestic petroleum prices.

Tax Reforms Require Careful Implementation

Commenting on the country's new tax regime, Ajayi-Kadir described the reforms as a positive development capable of enhancing the business environment. However, he warned that poor implementation could undermine the objectives of the policy and negatively affect the manufacturing sector.

He reaffirmed MAN's commitment to protecting the interests of manufacturers and advocating policies that address the challenges facing businesses across the country.

Media Remains Key Partner in Development

The MAN Director-General also acknowledged the important role of the media in promoting national development, describing journalists and industry correspondents as critical partners in advancing economic growth and public awareness.

He pledged the association's continued support for CICAN in the discharge of its professional responsibilities.

Earlier, CICAN Chairman, Alhaji Taiwo Hassan, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the long-standing relationship between the association and MAN.

Hassan disclosed that CICAN has concluded plans to intensify the promotion of the Made-in-Nigeria campaign to encourage patronage of locally manufactured products and support indigenous industries.

He noted that the initiative would contribute to job creation, increased industrial productivity, foreign exchange conservation, and overall national economic development.

"As stakeholders in economic reporting, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote local manufacturing and strengthen Nigeria's industrial sector," Hassan said.