The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) announced that Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Adegboyega Awomolo, has repaid a N2 million student loan, nearly five decades after benefiting from the Federal Government Student Loan Scheme. The loan, which helped fund his undergraduate studies at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) during the 1975/1976 and 1976/1977 academic sessions, was originally N1,000.
In a statement issued on Friday, September 6, NELFUND confirmed that Awomolo’s repayment marks a full settlement of the debt. The loan, which provided crucial financial support during his law degree, played a significant role in his academic journey.
Despite numerous attempts to repay the loan earlier, Awomolo had been unable to settle it until now. His gesture reflects a commitment to honoring the obligations tied to the Federal Government’s student loan initiative, which was designed to ease the financial burden on students pursuing higher education.
Awomolo’s repayment, adjusted for inflation and other factors, underscores the importance of student loan schemes in shaping the careers of many professionals and highlights the continued relevance of such programs in Nigeria’s educational landscape.
In a significant collaborative effort to combat financial crimes, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has handed over 53 recovered vehicles and $180,300 to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) for the benefit of victims of fraud in Canada. The assets were presented to the RCMP representatives in Abuja on Friday, September 6, by EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede.
According to Olukoyede, the recovered vehicles had been stolen from Canada and traced to various car dealerships across Nigeria. Nine of the vehicles were also located at customs ports, awaiting clearance. The EFCC, in cooperation with Canadian authorities, ensured the successful recovery of these assets.
In addition to the vehicles, the EFCC also recovered $164,000 for a Canadian citizen, Elena Bogomas, who had fallen victim to a romance scam. Another $16,300 was recovered for Sandra Butler, also a Canadian victim of fraud.
Olukoyede revealed that one of the fraudsters involved used his illicit gains to purchase an estate, which was seized, sold, and the proceeds used to compensate the victims. The criminal was arrested, prosecuted, and jailed, demonstrating the EFCC’s commitment to justice.
“It’s common knowledge that financial crimes have taken a new turn all across the globe,” Olukoyede remarked, underscoring the international nature of financial crimes and the importance of cooperation between nations in tackling such issues.
The handover marks another victory in the ongoing global fight against financial fraud, with Nigeria and Canada working together to bring justice to the victims.
President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his dedication to transforming Nigeria’s infrastructure by adopting successful models from China. Speaking at the China World Hotel in Beijing, during a meeting with members of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO China) and the Nigerian community, the president highlighted the importance of discipline and unity in achieving national development.
According to a statement released on Friday, September 6, by Chief Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, President Tinubu emphasized the need for Nigerians abroad to be exemplary representatives of their country. He encouraged them to uphold Nigeria’s reputation by being good ambassadors in China, a country known for its disciplined and committed workforce.
“What is uppermost in my mind is for you to continue representing Nigeria as good citizens, and I urge you all to be good ambassadors of our nation in China,” President Tinubu said.
He also underscored the value of Nigeria’s diversity, calling it a strength that must be harnessed for service and nation-building. The president stressed that discipline is a critical factor in replicating China’s infrastructure success, a key focus of his administration.
“China is a very disciplined society, and we have to be disciplined too. Without discipline and commitment, we cannot build a nation that is respected everywhere in the world,” Tinubu added.
The President’s address signals his administration’s determination to push forward with infrastructural reforms aimed at positioning Nigeria as a global player, drawing inspiration from China’s remarkable development strides. He assured Nigerians that his government is committed to creating a disciplined and prosperous nation that will be respected on the global stage.
In a bid to alleviate the economic challenges faced by workers, the Executive Governor of Ekiti State has approved a new work-from-home policy for civil servants. This decision, effective from September 9, 2024, aims to provide relief to government employees as the state continues to navigate the current economic situation.
According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, the new arrangement is structured based on employee grade levels. Civil servants on Grade Levels 01 to 07 will work from home three days per week. Those on Grade Levels 08 to 12 will work remotely two days a week, while senior officers on Grade Levels 13 to 17 will have the opportunity to work from home once a week.
The directive explicitly exempts essential workers such as teachers, healthcare personnel in hospitals, and security workers, who are required to maintain their full on-site duties.
To ensure seamless service delivery across the state, each Ministry, Department, and Agency (MDA) has been instructed to create a functional schedule for staff, accommodating the new work-from-home arrangement without disrupting government operations.
The new policy will be in place for two months initially and will undergo periodic review to assess its impact and to adjust in accordance with prevailing conditions.
This initiative reflects the state’s commitment to easing the burden on its workforce while maintaining the efficiency of its public service sector.
In a press briefing held in Abuja on Friday, September 6, the Federal Government, through the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tanko Sununu, cleared the air regarding the age limit controversy surrounding national examinations. The Minister stated that there are no age restrictions for students taking the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or National Examinations Council (NECO) exams.
This clarification comes in response to widespread rumors and misunderstandings regarding examination age requirements. Dr. Sununu emphasized that recent statements by government officials were misinterpreted to imply that age limits had been imposed on these examinations.
“We have made ourselves clear in different forums, but the issue keeps resurfacing. Neither I nor the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, made any statement regarding age limits for WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB,” Dr. Sununu said.
He further explained that the age restriction that had been referenced pertains strictly to the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and university entry requirements. From 2025 onwards, the minimum age for sitting for the UTME will be 18 years, in line with the National Policy on Education. This policy adjustment is meant to ensure that candidates are of an appropriate age to handle the rigors of university education.
Dr. Sununu stressed that the government’s focus is on maintaining educational standards and ensuring that younger candidates are not rushed into university environments without the necessary maturity.
In conclusion, students of any age are still eligible to sit for WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB examinations, while the new age policy will only apply to university admissions from 2025. The government urged the public to rely on verified information to avoid further confusion on the matter.
In a significant breakthrough, the Bayelsa State Police Command has apprehended a 24-year-old man, Godgift Bai, for allegedly circulating a young girl’s private video on social media. This incident has sparked outrage and serves as a reminder of the dangers of online exploitation and the breach of personal privacy.
According to a statement released by the command’s spokesperson, ASP Musa Mohammed, on Friday, September 6, Bai was arrested in Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa, on September 3, 2024. His arrest follows a detailed investigation carried out by the Cyber Crime Unit, which acted under the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Alonyenu Francis Idu.
Bai, who hails from Ogbolomabiri in the Nembe Local Government Area, is alleged to have shared the private video of the young girl across multiple social media platforms, causing significant distress to the victim and her family. The swift action of the police in this case is commendable, as it highlights the importance of cracking down on cybercrime and ensuring that perpetrators face justice.
This arrest serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences that online harassment and the non-consensual sharing of private content can have on individuals, particularly young women. The psychological, emotional, and social impact of such violations can be overwhelming, often leaving victims scarred for life.
As this case unfolds, it sends a strong message to those who engage in online exploitation and cyberbullying. The authorities are watching, and those responsible for such reprehensible acts will be held accountable. It also emphasizes the need for awareness and digital education, encouraging young people to be more conscious of their online behavior and the potential consequences of misusing technology.
The Bayelsa State Police Command’s efforts in addressing cybercrime and protecting the privacy and dignity of its citizens should be applauded. It is important for everyone to stand united against cyberbullying and ensure that those responsible for such crimes are brought to justice.
Let’s continue to raise awareness and support victims of online harassment while advocating for stricter laws to prevent such occurrences in the future.
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the Nigerian community in the UK mourns the loss of one of its own. Julien, a medical professional who had just completed her Master’s degree under the sponsorship of the NHS, tragically passed away due to brain complications resulting from what initially seemed like a simple headache. Her sudden demise has sent shockwaves through her family, friends, and colleagues alike.
What makes this loss even more painful is that Julien had recently welcomed a new chapter in her life—becoming a mother. She leaves behind her husband and their 5-year-old son, who are now grappling with unimaginable grief. Julien’s passing is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of vigilance when it comes to health, no matter how minor symptoms may seem.
This devastating incident raises concerns about the need for greater awareness around health, especially for those who often brush aside symptoms like headaches as being minor. Julien’s death also underscores the importance of paying close attention to seemingly routine health issues that can potentially escalate into life-threatening conditions.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Julien’s family during this difficult time. Let this be a somber reminder for everyone to prioritize their health, listen to their bodies, and seek medical advice when necessary.
Studying Abroad – Are you aspiring to further your education abroad? Do you dream of earning a degree from a prestigious international university but aren’t sure where to start? You’re not alone! Many students share the same vision but often struggle with the application process, securing scholarships, or navigating the complexities of moving with family.
If you answered YES to any of these questions:
Do you want to study abroad for free but don’t know where to begin?
Have you had multiple failed attempts at applying for admission or scholarships abroad?
Are you looking for clear guidance on how to present a strong application?
Do you plan to travel with your spouse and/or children via the study route but don’t know how?
Then this guide is tailor-made for you!
READ MORE:
Embarking on a study abroad journey begins with a comprehensive roadmap, meticulously crafted to guide you through each essential step. The first order of business is to thoroughly research potential destinations. Considerations should be made for language barriers, cultural differences, and the overall academic environment. Each country boasts unique attributes that could significantly impact your educational experience and personal growth, so choose wisely.
Understanding specific admission requirements is another pivotal component of your study abroad plan. Admission criteria can vastly differ depending on the country and institution. Factors such as language proficiency tests (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS), standardized test scores (e.g., SAT, GRE), academic transcripts, and recommendation letters all play a crucial role in the application process. Compile a list of these requirements and deadlines for each prospective university to avoid any last-minute hiccups.
Identifying universities and programs that align with your academic and career goals is an existential step not to be underestimated. It’s essential to match your ambitions with institutions renowned for their academic excellence in your chosen field of study. Utilize resources like international university rankings, alumni reviews, and academic forums to gauge the reputation and curriculum quality of potential schools. Often, universities have specialized departments or advisors dedicated to assisting international students, which can be an invaluable resource.
What Will You Find in This Study Abroad Guide?
Whether you’re applying for a scholarship or simply aiming for admission to a world-class university, this guide covers the essential steps you need to take, from planning to finalizing your study abroad journey. Here’s a sneak peek into what you’ll gain:
1. A Roadmap to Kickstart Your Journey
The study abroad process can be overwhelming, but this guide offers a clear, step-by-step roadmap. It breaks down everything from selecting the right country and school to handling visa applications and interviews. You’ll know exactly what to do at every stage.
2. Practical Advice and Pro Tips
Applying for international schools is competitive, and you’ll need more than good grades to stand out. This guide is packed with expert tips on how to make your application shine, including crafting a compelling personal statement, securing powerful recommendation letters, and showcasing extracurricular achievements.
3. How to Position Yourself as a Strong Applicant
A standout application is about more than academic achievements. The guide provides insight into how to highlight your strengths, experiences, and unique qualities that make you a strong candidate. Whether it’s your leadership skills or commitment to community service, you’ll learn how to frame your story in the most appealing way possible.
4. Effective Application Strategies
What sets successful applicants apart from others? The answer is in their approach. This guide shares effective application strategies that maximize your chances of getting accepted. From choosing the right programs to submitting the required documents on time, every aspect of your application will be streamlined for success.
5. Practical Tools to Help You Stay Organized
Applying to multiple schools can be chaotic. That’s why this guide includes useful tools to simplify the process, such as:
A School Application Tracker to help you manage deadlines and keep track of each university’s requirements.
An Academic CV Template to ensure your resume highlights your most impressive qualifications.
These resources will save you time and stress, helping you stay organized throughout your journey.
Why Is This Guide Important?
Applying for study abroad opportunities can be complex, and making mistakes can delay or even derail your plans. With this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to avoid common pitfalls, improve your chances of success, and maximise your study abroad experience.
Whether you’re an undergraduate, graduate, or professional looking to further your education, this guide will be your go-to resource for making informed decisions.
Bonus: Tips for Families and Spouses
Planning to travel with your spouse or children? This guide covers how to make the process as smooth as possible, ensuring you’re fully prepared to take your family along for the journey. Learn how to navigate visa and immigration requirements for dependents and the best countries for family-friendly study abroad options.
Ready to Achieve Your Study Abroad Dreams?
By utilizing this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the process and achieve success on your first attempt. Say goodbye to confusion, missed deadlines, and unsuccessful applications!
Download the guide today and take the first step toward fulfilling your dream of studying abroad. ✨ The world of opportunities awaits—don’t miss out!
It’s that time of the week again—New Music Friday—where artists bless us with fresh sounds and vibes to carry us through the weekend and beyond. This week, we’ve got a stellar lineup of songs from across different genres, delivering everything from fiery Afrobeats and smooth rap collaborations to heartfelt ballads. Whether you’re looking to turn up, vibe out, or get lost in introspection, there’s something here for every mood.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into this week’s most exciting new releases:
1. Tion Wayne, Shallipopi – Forever
British rapper Tion Wayne teams up with Nigerian sensation Shallipopi for the cross-continental banger, Forever. Merging UK rap’s gritty beats with Afrobeats’ infectious rhythms, the track is an ode to eternal loyalty, whether it’s to a lover or to the grind. Shallipopi’s catchy flows complement Tion Wayne’s sharp delivery, making this a perfect anthem to kick off the weekend. Expect to see this one climbing charts, both in the UK and Nigeria.
2. Maleek Berry, Ruger – Lately
Maleek Berry and Ruger join forces for Lately, a smooth, mid-tempo track that blends Afro-pop with a touch of dancehall. Ruger’s distinct voice paired with Maleek Berry’s melodic production creates an addictive vibe that will have you hitting the replay button. The song touches on love, growth, and staying grounded, all delivered in their signature laid-back style.
3. Chella, Young Jonn – Nyash Na Nyash
This track is not just a song—it’s an experience! Chella and Young Jonn collaborate on Nyash Na Nyash, a high-energy Afrobeats banger that’s destined to be a club favorite. With catchy lyrics, infectious drum patterns, and a head-bobbing beat, this one is sure to get everyone on the dancefloor. The playful title reflects the light-hearted yet sharp commentary on relationships and social norms.
4. Sizzy Benjamin – Pepper
If you’re in the mood for something with a bit of bite, Sizzy Benjamin’s Pepper is the track for you. The song is filled with bold and braggadocious energy, packed with punchlines that hit as hard as the bass. With its dynamic production and fiery lyrics, Pepper is bound to resonate with fans who appreciate wordplay and a good flex.
5. Wizard Chan – Time Traveller
Wizard Chan takes a more introspective route with Time Traveller. The song explores themes of nostalgia, reflection, and the passage of time, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. With mellow beats and soulful lyrics, it’s the kind of track that makes you pause and reflect on your own journey. If you’re a fan of deep, meaningful music, this one is sure to hit home.
6. Energee, Upper X, Bajii – Don’t Leave
This heartfelt track from Energee, Upper X, and Bajii offers a perfect balance between soulful melodies and poignant lyrics. Don’t Leave delves into the complexities of love and relationships, the fears of abandonment, and the hope for reconciliation. With emotive vocals and a smooth instrumental, it’s a track for those quiet moments when you need something relatable and real.
7. Fiokee, Johnny Drille – No Way – Remix
Fiokee, Nigeria’s guitar maestro, teams up with alternative singer-songwriter Johnny Drille for a remix of No Way. Known for his intricate guitar riffs, Fiokee adds a new layer of depth to this already beautiful track, while Johnny Drille’s heartfelt vocals evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing. If you’re a fan of acoustic and soulful vibes, this remix is a perfect companion for a reflective weekend.
8. A$AP Rocky, J. Cole – Ruby Rosary (feat. J. Cole)
Fans of hip-hop will be excited about the long-awaited collaboration between A$AP Rocky and J. Cole. Ruby Rosary is an introspective track with smooth flows and a laid-back beat, providing a space for both artists to reflect on life, success, and the complexities of fame. J. Cole’s lyricism pairs perfectly with A$AP Rocky’s signature cool delivery, creating a masterful blend of consciousness and swagger.
9. Masterkraft, Slimcase, Kashcoming – PASSPORT
For those who love upbeat party vibes, Masterkraft, Slimcase, and Kashcoming have delivered with PASSPORT. This track is bursting with energy, embodying the carefree, high-energy sound that Masterkraft is known for. Slimcase’s energetic vocals add the perfect touch, while Kashcoming provides infectious hooks. Whether you’re getting ready to hit the streets or hosting a house party, this is the jam to get everyone moving.
10. Drake – No Face
Drake is back with another emotional anthem, No Face, continuing his streak of chart-topping releases. The track explores themes of identity, vulnerability, and navigating relationships in the digital age. With his signature blend of rap and melodic vocals, Drake captures the complexity of modern love and fame. Fans of his previous work will find this track familiar yet refreshing, with enough depth to spark countless conversations.
11. Toosii, Gunna – Champs Élysées (feat. Gunna)
Rising star Toosii teams up with Gunna for Champs Élysées, a laid-back track that showcases the duo’s lyrical prowess over a smooth, dreamlike beat. The song’s title references one of the most famous streets in Paris, symbolizing luxury and aspiration. With Gunna’s unmistakable flow and Toosii’s emotive delivery, this track is perfect for a night drive or a reflective moment. It’s the kind of song that grows on you with every listen.
What to Expect from This Week’s Drops
This week’s new releases have brought a bit of everything—whether you want to dance, chill, reflect, or vibe out, there’s something for everyone. The beauty of music lies in its ability to transport you to different emotional and mental spaces, and these tracks have the potential to do just that.
From the international flair of A$AP Rocky and J. Cole to the vibrant Afrobeats energy of Shallipopi, Fiokee’s melodic craftsmanship, and the poetic lyricism of Johnny Drille, this week’s releases showcase the power of collaboration and creativity across borders and genres. The mix of newcomers and established artists ensures that there’s a fresh sound around every corner, while familiar faces like Drake and Gunna continue to push boundaries.
Make sure to give these tracks a listen this weekend, and let us know which ones you’ve got on repeat. Whether you’re dancing to PASSPORT or reflecting on life with Time Traveller, there’s plenty to enjoy!
Happy listening! 🎧 Let the weekend vibes begin! and let know in the comment section what your favourite
Nigerian singer Ayra Starr sparked a heated conversation on social media after speaking out against violence toward women, following the tragic death of Christiana, a 300-level FUNAAB student who was kidnapped and murdered by her own church member. In her heartfelt tweet, Ayra called for justice with the powerful words, “Stop killing us! Stop raping us! Women deserve better.”
While many praised Ayra for her bold stand, not everyone seemed to be on the same page. In a disturbing turn of events, a few male commenters decided to mock her activism. One user sarcastically wrote, “No go wash your mini skirt for show tomorrow,” a comment that took the internet by storm. Instead of focusing on the serious issue Ayra was addressing, trolls fixated on her fashion choices, completely diverting attention from the murder of Christiana.
Fans quickly rushed to Ayra’s defense, with some calling out the comment for its insensitivity. “Why are people so insensitive in the CS?!” one user exclaimed, while another pointed out, “We all deserve better, Oyinkansola,” referring to Ayra Starr’s real name.
However, the backlash only fueled more inappropriate comments, with others arguing that Ayra Starr’s clothing choices somehow undermine her activism. “You self stop wearing short skirts, it matters too,” another user quipped, sparking outrage among her supporters.
Ayra, who has been a vocal advocate for women’s rights, has yet to respond directly to the controversial comments, but her message remains clear: the focus should be on justice for Christiana, not on trivial distractions like her wardrobe.
Despite the noise, her tweet has garnered over a million views, showing that her fight for justice is resonating with many, even if some are missing the point.
