Category: International News

  • GOC Babalola Urges Retiring Troops to Embrace Entrepreneurship

    GOC Babalola Urges Retiring Troops to Embrace Entrepreneurship

    The Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, Lagos, has commenced Pre-Discharge Course 2/2026, reaffirming its commitment to preparing retiring military personnel for productive and self-reliant lives after active service.

    The inauguration ceremony brought together senior military officers, participants, government officials and other stakeholders to launch another round of intensive human capacity development for personnel approaching retirement.

    Declaring the course open, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Major General Adebayo Babalola, described the programme as a strategic investment in the future of the Armed Forces and national development.

    He said retirement should never be regarded as the end of a career but rather the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities for enterprise, innovation and community service.

    According to him, the military values of discipline, resilience, integrity, professionalism and patriotism remain valuable assets that retiring personnel can deploy successfully in civilian life.

    Babalola commended the leadership of NAFRC for consistently providing vocational, entrepreneurial and management training that empowers military personnel to become productive citizens after service.

    He noted that the Centre has evolved into one of Africa’s leading military resettlement institutions through its sustained contributions to personnel welfare and national socio economic growth.

    The GOC urged participants to embrace every aspect of the six month programme with commitment, stressing that the knowledge and practical skills acquired would shape their future after retirement.

    He explained that the curriculum extends beyond vocational studies to include entrepreneurship, business management, financial literacy, information technology and other life skills designed to promote self reliance.

    Babalola encouraged participants to leverage the opportunity to become employers of labour, business owners, consultants and respected leaders within their communities.

    He also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of serving and retired military personnel through sustained support for the Resettlement Centre.

    The GOC expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs and other stakeholders for their unwavering support towards strengthening the Centre.

    He further advised participants to maintain discipline, healthy living and professionalism throughout the course while preserving the honour earned during decades of military service.

    Earlier, the Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal Nnaemeka Ilo, described the participants as Nigeria’s next generation of entrepreneurs and future employers of labour.

    He disclosed that the Centre had reviewed its curriculum in partnership with the National Board for Technical Education and the National Directorate of Employment to align training with nationally recognised certification standards.

    According to him, the curriculum enhancement will ensure that certificates earned at the Centre enjoy wider national recognition and improve graduates’ competitiveness in the labour market.

    Ilo announced plans to convene a stakeholders’ summit aimed at consolidating reforms and strengthening collaborations that will further improve the Centre’s training programmes.

    He urged participants to approach the programme with seriousness while gradually adapting to civilian life, reminding them that they remained respected senior officers deserving of dignity and mutual respect.

    The Commandant also cautioned participants against abusing social media or engaging in actions capable of damaging reputations built over decades of dedicated military service.

    He encouraged them to channel grievances through established administrative procedures, assuring participants that the Centre’s leadership remained accessible to address legitimate concerns.

    In his welcome address, the Director of Training, Brigadier General Isang Akpaumontia, said the Centre received nominations for 840 participants comprising 523 personnel from the Nigerian Army, 89 from the Nigerian Navy and 228 from the Nigerian Air Force.

    He disclosed that 689 personnel had so far completed documentation, accommodation and medical screening, while 136 were returned to their units for further medical care after being declared medically unfit for the current course.

    Akpaumontia explained that participants would receive practical training in agriculture, information technology, automobile mechanics, welding, tailoring, bakery, leather works, refrigeration, photography, ceramics, security management, entrepreneurship and several other vocational disciplines.

    He emphasised that attendance, discipline, professionalism and strict compliance with Centre regulations would remain compulsory throughout the residential programme, expressing confidence that participants would graduate equipped with the competence, confidence and entrepreneurial mindset required to excel in civilian life.

    The ceremony concluded with the formal inauguration of Pre Discharge Course 2/2026 as participants commenced another important phase in their transition from distinguished military careers to sustainable civilian livelihoods.

  • Pivot Nigeria Inspires UNILAG Students to Champion Nigeria’s True Story

    Pivot Nigeria Inspires UNILAG Students to Champion Nigeria’s True Story

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    Students of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) have been urged to become active ambassadors of Nigeria by promoting truthful, balanced and inspiring narratives capable of reshaping global perceptions of the country.

    The call was made at the Campus Edition of Pivot Nigeria: Reframing the Lens, a national reputation campaign organised by HighStakes PR Professionals Limited at MAD House, University of Lagos, where students, academics, media professionals and communication experts gathered to examine the role of young Nigerians in strengthening the country’s image.

    The initiative, which marks the expansion of Pivot Nigeria’s national engagement to tertiary institutions, seeks to encourage students to embrace responsible storytelling, ethical leadership and civic responsibility as essential tools for building Nigeria’s reputation both locally and internationally.

    Speaking at the event, Convener, Victoria Uwadoka, said the country’s numerous challenges should not overshadow the remarkable achievements recorded daily by millions of Nigerians across business, science, technology, arts, culture and community development.

    She stressed that Nigeria’s global reputation would improve when citizens deliberately project authentic stories that reflect the nation’s innovation, resilience and rich cultural heritage rather than allowing negative narratives to dominate public discourse.

    According to her, national reputation is not built solely through strategic communication but through the daily conduct, integrity and values demonstrated by ordinary citizens, adding that every positive action contributes to a stronger national identity.

    Delivering the university’s goodwill message, the inaugural Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Professor Sunday Oloruntola, commended the organisers for bringing the conversation to Nigerian campuses, describing the initiative as timely and relevant.

    Oloruntola observed that while Nigeria continues to grapple with socio-economic challenges, the country’s reality extends far beyond the stereotypes often portrayed in global headlines, urging students of communication to appreciate the enormous influence of framing in shaping public perception.

    The event featured presentations from respected voices in media, communication, academia and culture, who examined how national reputation affects foreign investment, tourism, international partnerships, economic opportunities and citizens’ confidence in their country.

    A major highlight was a panel discussion led by Goge Africa Worldwide Co-founders, Ambassadors Isaac Moses and Nneka Isaac-Moses, who identified culture, identity and personal conduct as critical pillars in redefining Nigeria’s image before the international community.

    Responding to the question, “Why Nigeria?”, Ambassador Nneka Isaac-Moses insisted that the country’s greatest strength lies in its people, describing Nigerians as exceptionally creative, resilient and capable of achieving global excellence when given opportunities.

    Ambassador Isaac Moses added that while media narratives influence international opinion, the everyday actions and behaviour of Nigerians equally shape the country’s reputation, noting that personal credibility often opens doors long before professional qualifications are considered.

    The speakers further emphasised that Nigeria’s globally recognised music, fashion, cuisine, films and creative industries remain powerful instruments of cultural diplomacy capable of strengthening national identity and expanding the country’s soft power across the world.

    A key outcome of the programme was the launch of the Pivot Nigeria Campus Collective, a student-led network established to sustain advocacy through storytelling projects, digital campaigns, dialogue sessions and community initiatives. Members will also participate in a 30-Day Challenge designed to promote responsible citizenship, balanced storytelling and purposeful leadership across campuses. Student leaders, Aborede Feyisara and Adewunmi Oluwasemilore, were elected to coordinate the UNILAG chapter.

    As the first engagement in a nationwide university series, the Pivot Nigeria Campus Edition reaffirmed that Nigerian students are not only future leaders but also today’s influencers, innovators and custodians of the nation’s reputation. By empowering young people to tell authentic stories rooted in truth, excellence and national pride, the initiative aims to foster a stronger, more balanced global perception of Nigeria while encouraging greater civic responsibility among the next generation.

  • NIWA Intensifies Marine Safety Campaign to Protect Lives on Abaji Waterways

    NIWA Intensifies Marine Safety Campaign to Protect Lives on Abaji Waterways

    As the rainy season peaks with rising water levels and increased pollution, the National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA, has moved to sensitize waterfront communities in the Federal Capital Territory on safety and environmental protection.

    The NIWA Abuja Area/Liaison Office on Wednesday staged a Marine Safety and Environmental Protection campaign at Abaji Area Council.

    The exercise re-emphasized safe navigation practices and environmental stewardship for residents living on and around the waterways. It is in direct alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and the provisions of federal law which enshrine *zero tolerance for waterways transportation accidents and infractions*.

    Speaking at the event, the Area Manager, *Hajai. Aisha Eri*, thanked the host communities for their cooperation. She assured them of NIWA’s sustained commitment to protecting the nation’s inland waters and the lives and livelihoods of those who depend on them.

    The Emir of kwali *HRH Alhaji Adamu Saba Aguma*, also commended NIWA for the intervention. He pledged his community’s full support to safeguard the waterways and ensure strict adherence to all safety regulations.

    Other district heads, John Dogole, district head of kundu, Sarkin
    Tungbufu, Mohammed Yusuf, Ayahaya Nassarawa, the sarkin Nassarawa, Musa wabai, Sarkin kutara, Musa Alanana, the Sarkin kwago and Padama and Abdullahi kwakwa , the Sarkin kwakwa , all expressed their appreciation for the enlightenment campaign and gave assurances of full compliance with the safety measures taught.

    The sensitization is part of a nationwide mandate from the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, *His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola*, to ensure dedicated and regular engagement with littoral communities. The Acting Managing Director of NIWA, *Alhaji Umar Yusuf Girei*, has directed all Area Offices to accord the directive top priority.

    The Abuja Area Office team is expected to extend the campaign to other littoral communities within and around the FCT next week.

  • Customs NAFDAC, Army Unite to Block Smuggling Across Ogun Borders

    Customs NAFDAC, Army Unite to Block Smuggling Across Ogun Borders

    The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to eradicating counterfeit goods, unwholesome drugs, and border security threats through strengthened inter-agency collaboration.

    According to a press release issued on Wednesday by Chado Zakari, Deputy Superintendent of Customs and Public Relations Officer, Ogun I Area Command, Idiroko, this resolve was highlighted during two separate high-profile strategic visits to the Command Headquarters in Idiroko by leadership from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the 35 Artillery Brigade Nigerian Army.

    Dr. Martin Iluyomade (fsi), Director of the Federal Task Force on Fake and Substandard Products at NAFDAC, paid a courtesy call on the Ag. Customs Area Controller, Ogun I Command, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Oludayo Afeni, to establish robust, intelligence-driven operations aimed at intercepting substandard and expired goods before reaching Nigerian markets.

    Dr. Iluyomade commended the Command’s anti-smuggling track record and advocated for real-time information sharing and streamlined enforcement to protect public health and local industries.
    ​
    DC Oladapo Afeni emphasized that dismantling organized smuggling syndicates requires inter-agency coordination, noting that our resolve to secure the nation’s borders against illicit trade is unwavering. Strengthening our partnership with the Federal Task Force will enhance our operational efficiency and ensure importers of fake and substandard items find no safe haven within our jurisdiction.

    ​Both agencies urged importers, clearing agents, and border communities to prioritize compliant trade and report suspicious activities to security authorities.

    ​In a parallel engagement to bolster tactical border security, the Commander of the 35 Artillery Brigade, Abeokuta, Brigadier, General Friday Oguche Onu, paid an official visit to DC Afeni to enhance security architecture across Ogun State’s border corridors.
    ​
    Brigadier General Onu pledged continuous operational backstopping and intelligence sharing from the Nigeria Customs service, Ogun I Command in particular to counter trans-border crime, smuggling, and regional threats. Security along our border communities requires a seamless, unified front. The 35 Artillery Brigade remains fully committed to fostering joint operations to safeguard national security and economic stability, General Onu stated.

    The Ag. Customs Area Controller Ogun I Command DC Afeni appreciated the military’s steadfast support, reaffirming that joint tactics remain vital to suppressing illicit activities while facilitating legitimate trade.

    ​Solidifying Partnership,
    ​the high-level visits featured formal presentations of commemorative plaques, the signing of the official visitors’ register, and joint group photographs with senior officers of the respective formations.

  • Oluwarotimi Edu Legacy Lives On As NIPSS SEC 39 Pays Tribute

    Oluwarotimi Edu Legacy Lives On As NIPSS SEC 39 Pays Tribute

    Members of the Senior Executive Course 39 of 2017 at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, have paid a heartfelt tribute to their late colleague, Barrister Oluwarotimi Edu, mni, describing him as an outstanding gentleman whose life embodied integrity, excellence and unwavering commitment to national development.

    The course mates said Barrister Edu distinguished himself throughout his professional journey as an accomplished legal practitioner, insurance expert, administrator and patriotic Nigerian who remained committed to service, leadership and the pursuit of the common good.

    They recalled that during and after their time at NIPSS, he earned the admiration of colleagues through his intellectual depth, calm disposition and ability to offer practical solutions to complex issues. His contributions, they noted, enriched discussions and strengthened professional relationships that endured long after the programme.

    According to the members, Barrister Edu was admired for his humility, discipline and exceptional character. They said he carried himself with dignity, treated everyone with respect and remained a dependable colleague whose words and actions inspired confidence.

    The SEC 39 family also described him as a loyal friend and trusted confidant who freely shared his knowledge and experience. His willingness to mentor younger professionals and encourage his peers reflected his deep commitment to building capable leaders for the nation.

    They noted that while his professional achievements were impressive, it was his compassion, generosity and genuine concern for the welfare of others that truly set him apart. His legacy, they said, will continue to resonate within the NIPSS community and beyond.

    Members further observed that Barrister Edu consistently demonstrated the ideals of ethical leadership and public service promoted by NIPSS. His life, they stressed, remains a shining example of honour, accountability and purposeful leadership.

    They acknowledged that his passing has created a significant void within the SEC 39 family, but expressed confidence that the values he lived by and the lives he positively influenced will continue to speak for generations.

    As they celebrated his remarkable life and enduring accomplishments, the members expressed gratitude to God for the privilege of sharing memorable moments with a man whose impact transcended professional boundaries and touched countless lives.

    The members of Senior Executive Course 39, 2017, NIPSS Kuru, prayed that Almighty God would grant his family, friends, colleagues and associates the strength to bear the painful loss, while granting the gentle soul of Barrister Oluwarotimi Edu, mni, eternal rest in perfect peace. Amen.

  • 81 Division Unveils Modern CBT Centre, Learning Facilities As GOC Babalola Challenges Commanders

    81 Division Unveils Modern CBT Centre, Learning Facilities As GOC Babalola Challenges Commanders

    The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Abdulrahman Babalola, has charged commanders at all levels to endeavour to leave every place better than they met it through purposeful leadership and impactful initiatives. The GOC gave the charge on Tuesday, 28 July 2026, while commissioning educational and infrastructural projects at Command Day Secondary School Oshodi, Lagos.

    According to an official press release issued by Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 81 Division Nigerian Army, on July 28, 2026. The projects commissioned included a 300-seater capacity Computer- Based Test Centre (CBT), Mathematics Laboratory, remodelling of the school conference room, repainting of the entire school, revamping of a Coaster Bus, construction of students’ and staff furniture, as well as the procurement of 95 laptops, 55 ceiling and wall fans, two refrigerators and other facilities to enhance teaching and learning.

    Major General Babalola stated that the projects are in line with the Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, and reaffirm the Nigerian Army’s commitment to improving welfare and educational infrastructure across its formations and units.

    He noted that such initiatives provide a conducive learning environment for the children of personnel while reassuring troops, particularly those on operations, that the welfare of their families remains a priority. The GOC commended the Commandant, Lieutenant Colonel DS Yakubu, for executing projects that will have a lasting impact on the school community.

    In his remarks, the Commandant expressed appreciation to the GOC and the leadership of the Nigerian Army for their continued support towards improving educational standards in Command schools.

    The ceremony was attended by senior military officers, Commandants of Command schools, staff and other invited guests. It concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to the GOC, a tour of the newly commissioned projects and a group photograph.

  • Army Dismantles Illegal Bunkering Site In Lagos Arrests Six Suspects

    Army Dismantles Illegal Bunkering Site In Lagos Arrests Six Suspects

    Troops of 65 Battalion under the leadership of the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel S Adeojo, have dismantled a suspected illegal bunkering site at the Orile General Area of Lagos State during a well-coordinated intelligence-led operation.

    According to an official press release issued by Lieutenant Colonel Musa Yahaya, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 81 Division Nigerian Army, on July 28, 2026. Acting on credible intelligence, the troops raided the site and arrested six suspected oil bunkerers. The operation also led to the recovery of four trucks, one pumping machine, and assorted pipes and drums allegedly used for illegal bunkering activities.

    The suspects and recovered items have been handed over to the officers and men of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Lagos State Command for further necessary action.

    The General Officer Commanding 81 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Adebayo Abdulrahman Babalola, commended the troops for the successful operation and charged them to sustain the offensive against economic sabotage and other criminal activities within the 81 Division Area of Responsibility

  • Beitbridge Mission Ignites Nigeria Benin, Cameroon Push for Faster African Trade

    Beitbridge Mission Ignites Nigeria Benin, Cameroon Push for Faster African Trade

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has once again strengthened its commitment to coordinated border management, trade facilitation and regional economic integration following a high-level benchmarking mission to the Beitbridge Border Post between Zimbabwe and South Africa.

    The mission, which brought together the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, alongside Mr Fongod Nuvaga, Director General of Cameroon Customs,
    Mr Raouf Aboudou, Director-General of
    Benin Customs, Mrs Lonto Ndlovu Acting
    Commissioner Customs and Excise in the
    Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), as well as Alhaji Saleh Ahmadu, Chairman Bergmans Security Consultant and Supplies Limited was organised with the support of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) as part of ongoing efforts to deepen intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    Speaking during the session and adoption of the Joint Communiqué on Monday, 27 July 2026, CGC Adeniyi described the mission as a strategic opportunity for African customs administrations to move beyond discussions on border reform and embrace practical implementation of modern border management systems. He noted that the lessons from Beitbridge and Chirundu Border Posts, both in Zimbabwe, reinforced the importance of coordinated institutional frameworks, digital integration and collaborative leadership in transforming Africa’s trade corridors.

    “Beitbridge has demonstrated that border modernisation is not merely about infrastructure development. The most important lesson for us is that sustainable reform depends on coordinated institutions, clear accountability, digital interoperability and professional human capital. We are leaving here with a renewed commitment to translate these lessons into practical solutions that will strengthen trade facilitation, security and economic growth across our region,” Adeniyi said.

    The five-day mission featured technical sessions, facility tour and executive briefing by various border agencies in Zimbabwe. The benchmarking technical team comprising the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Cameroon Customs Administration, Benin Customs Administration, Bergmans Security Consultant and Supplies Limited and Bsmart Technologies briefed the Customs Chiefs on the Beitbridge Modernisation and Concession Model, including its financing structure, operational framework, revenue management systems and coordinated border governance architecture.

    Participants also undertook extensive tours of the freight terminal, cargo processing facilities, scanning operations, traffic segmentation systems and integrated ICT infrastructure designed to support seamless border operations. The engagements provided participants with firsthand insights into how technology, institutional coordination and performance management have transformed one of Africa’s busiest border crossings into a model for efficient trade facilitation.

    According to the Joint Communiqué signed by the participating customs administrations, the mission was conceived within the broader continental effort to facilitate trade across West Africa and between West and Central Africa. The document identified the Sèmè-Kraké corridor linking Nigeria and Benin Republic, as well as the Mfum-Ekok corridor connecting Nigeria and Cameroon, as strategic routes that stand to benefit significantly from the implementation of coordinated border management and One-Stop Border Post arrangements.

    Also speaking during the ceremony, Director-General of the Cameroon Customs Administration, Fongod Nuvaga, emphasised the importance of collective action in improving trade corridors across the continent. He observed that customs administrations must work together to remove procedural bottlenecks that hinder legitimate trade while maintaining effective border controls. According to him, stronger regional cooperation will enable African countries to fully harness the opportunities created by the AfCFTA and accelerate economic integration across the continent.

    Similarly, Director-General of the Benin Customs Administration, Colonel Raouf Malèhossou Aboudou, noted that the lessons from Beitbridge offer practical pathways for improving border efficiency within West Africa. He stressed that harmonised procedures, coordinated risk management systems and stronger institutional partnerships will be critical to achieving seamless trade movement across regional corridors. He added that sustained collaboration among neighbouring customs administrations remains essential for delivering measurable improvements in trade facilitation and revenue assurance.

    Earlier, Director for Trade Facilitation and Investment Promotion at Afreximbank, Dr Gainmore Zanamwe, highlighted the significance of the benchmarking exercise as part of the Bank’s broader strategy to support trade-enabling infrastructure across Africa. He explained that the objective was not simply to showcase physical infrastructure but to expose participating administrations to the governance structures, operational models and institutional reforms that underpin the success of modern border posts. “Infrastructure is important, but what truly drives performance is an operating model built on accountability, coordination, technology and measurable service standards. Those are the lessons we hope will be replicated across strategic corridors on the continent,” he said.

    The mission concluded with the signing of a Joint Communiqué committing Nigeria, Cameroon and Benin to establish a Trilateral Strategic Steering Committee to drive implementation of the recommendations arising from the visit. The three customs administrations also pledged to pursue harmonised procedures, digital interoperability, coordinated risk management systems and sustained investment in personnel development.

  • FOC Mustapha Backs Stronger Navy, NPA Synergy for Safer Maritime Trade

    FOC Mustapha Backs Stronger Navy, NPA Synergy for Safer Maritime Trade

    The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, on Tuesday, 28 July 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, at the Authority’s Headquarters, Marina, Lagos.

    Rear Admiral Mustapha said the visit was aimed at formally introducing himself and further consolidating the longstanding partnership between the Nigerian Navy and the NPA, with a shared focus on strengthening port security and improving trade facilitation across Nigeria’s maritime domain. He conveyed the appreciation of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, for the Authority’s strategic role in supporting national economic growth and advancing the Blue Economy, describing the NPA as a critical stakeholder in maritime security and efficient port operations.

    The FOC commended the Managing Director for his innovative leadership in driving port efficiency and reform, and highlighted the Nigerian Navy’s sustained efforts to enhance maritime security through the Falcon Eye Maritime Surveillance System, the Regional Maritime Awareness Capability (RMAC) and the deployment to curb maritime crimes and ensure safer shipping lanes.He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to deeper collaboration with the NPA in support of secure and seamless trade facilitation.

    In his response, Dr Dantsoho appreciated the enduring partnership between the Nigerian Ports Authority and the Nigerian Navy, commending the Western Naval Command for its critical role in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime domain and enabling efficient port operations. He emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration in strengthening port security architecture while improving trade facilitation processes to enhance competitiveness and ease of doing business. He also called for increased operational support, particularly in the Eastern Zone, and expressed optimism that deeper synergy would further advance national maritime security and economic development.

    The visit featured the presentation of souvenirs and concluded with a group photograph, reaffirming the shared commitment of both organisations to consolidating partnership for enhanced port security, improved trade facilitation and sustained national economic growth.

  • Smile Inspires Igbobi College Students To Explore Careers in Technology and Telecommunications

    Smile Inspires Igbobi College Students To Explore Careers in Technology and Telecommunications

    In furtherance of its commitment to inspiring the next generation of technology leaders, Smile Communications Nigeria has encouraged students of Igbobi College, Lagos and other students to take deep interest in technology and telecommunications.

    The foremost communications company gave this inspiration when students of Igbobi College visited its Lagos headquarters for an educational and career-exposure visit held in commemoration of World Youth Skills Day 2026 last week.

    The visit, which aligned with this year’s theme, “Skills for a Shared Future,” provided the students with an opportunity to look beyond the technology they use every day and gain practical insight into the people, systems and professional skills that make modern telecommunications possible.

    During the interactive session, the students were introduced to different aspects of Smile’s operations, including network technology and engineering, customer experience, commercial operations, marketing and the growing importance of digital skills in an increasingly connected world.

    The students were welcomed by Smile’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Abhulime Ehiagwina, alongside members of the company’s leadership team, including the Chief Commercial Officer, Muhammad Shahzad; and Head of Marketing Operations, ’Goke Olaleye.

    Speaking during the visit, Mr Ehiagwina encouraged the students to remain curious, adaptable and committed to continuous learning as technology continues to reshape industries and create new career opportunities.

    The students also participated in interactive sessions with Smile’s commercial, technology and marketing leaders, who shared practical perspectives on careers within the telecommunications ecosystem and explained how technical and non-technical skills work together to deliver reliable services and positive customer experiences. Commenting on the initiative, Smile’s Chief Commercial Officer, Muhammad Shahzad, said the engagement was designed to help the students connect what they learn in the classroom with real-world possibilities.

    “For us, this was more than an office tour. We wanted the students to see that the technology they use every day is powered by people with different skills—from engineering and data to customer experience, communication and marketing. When young people can see these possibilities up close, the future becomes more real and attainable.”

    The visit concluded with a question-and-answer session during which the students engaged the Smile team on technology, career choices, workplace skills and the future of telecommunications in Nigeria.

    Through engagements such as this, Smile continues to contribute to conversations around digital inclusion, STEAM education and the development of skills that can prepare young Nigerians to participate meaningfully in the future economy.

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