Category: News

Rear Admiral Kenedy Chukwuemeka Ezete, the 42nd Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, assumed command on 2nd July 2025 and has kicked off with momentum. On 9th July 2025, he received a courtesy call from Air Vice Marshal SK Aneke, Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command Yenagoa, accompanied by his entourage.

The visit underscored the strong tie between the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Air Force, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to inter-service collaboration. The discussions focused on sustaining and enhancing the existing relationship, with particular emphasis on Air reconnaissance support and information sharing within the South-South region.

Air Vice Marshal Aneke extended a warm welcome to Admiral Ezete and pledged unwavering support during his tenure. In response, Rear Admiral Ezete commended him for his visit and assured him of the Navy’s commitment to mutual cooperation. Principal Staff Officers of the Command were in attendance, and the meeting culminated in the exchange of souvenirs and group photographs.

In a major boost to Plateau State’s industrialization and agricultural value chain development, the Executive Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, on Tuesday, commissioned the ultra-modern maize milling plant of Benybite Foods Nigeria Limited, located in Jos, the Plateau State capital.

The event, according to the press statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Gyang Bere, stated that it drew top government functionaries and key industry stakeholders, marked a major milestone in the Governor’s commitment to promoting agro-processing, job creation, and economic growth across the state.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to resuscitate ailing industries and make Plateau a hub for agro-industrial activities.

“We want to revive all the ailing industries in the state. That’s why we’ve reached out to Rescue Mill, which is currently on the brink of collapse. Our goal is to make Plateau a business hub for ventures like this. Once we meet local demand, we can expand beyond the state and even beyond the country,” he said.

Governor Mutfwang commended the management of Benybite Foods Nigeria Ltd. for their bold investment, which he described as a catalyst for economic transformation. He assured the company of continued government support, noting that the initiative aligns seamlessly with his administration’s vision to transform Plateau into a leading industrial and agricultural state.

On the need for stable electricity and infrastructure to support industrialization, the Governor restated his administration’s resolute commitment to energy sufficiency and improved transportation networks.

He expressed optimism that the recently inaugurated Plateau Energy Commission, led by Ambassador Bagudu Hirse, and the State Energy Corporation under his leadership, will deliver sustainable and tangible outcomes to power industries across the state.

Earlier, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Benybite Foods Nigeria Limited, Mr. Benjamin Kayode-Ojo, described the factory as the largest of its kind in Plateau and the second most advanced food processing facility in Nigeria.

“This plant places Plateau at the epicenter of modern agricultural processing in the country,” he said.

Mr. Kayode-Ojo revealed that the plant has the capacity to mill 6,000 tons of maize monthly and clean over 10,000 tons of maize.

“The entire facility is built with stainless steel technology, making it one of the most food-processing–friendly environments in the country,” he noted.

He added that the plant could serve as a key supplier of raw materials to Jos International Breweries and other food and beverage industries nationwide.

“We envision a future where Plateau becomes the raw materials hub for industries across Nigeria. This factory is a strategic part of that vision,” he explained.

Commending Governor Mutfwang for his support and leadership, the Benybite CEO said:

“Your Excellency, this commissioning would not have been possible without your passion and commitment to industrial growth. We sincerely appreciate you for honoring our request despite your busy schedule.”

He further disclosed that although the plant was initially slated for completion in one year, the project was delivered in just six months, thanks to the expertise and commitment of local technicians.

“This is proof that when we believe in ourselves and invest in local capacity, we can achieve great things,” he emphasized.

In an effort to strengthen government machineries, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, on Wednesday swore in newly appointed Special Advisers and inaugurated the Governing Councils and Committees of key government agencies, marking a renewed push toward efficient governance, energy reform, and climate-conscious development.
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In a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Gyang Bere, on July 9, 2025 “‎The ceremony, held at the New Government House in Jos, featured the swearing-in of Special Advisers, the inauguration of the Plateau State Electricity Commission, the Road Safety Advisory Council, the Energy Corporation Board, and the Committee on Carbon Sequestration for the Jatropha-to-Biofuel Project in partnership with Noah Regen.
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‎Addressing the appointees and dignitaries at the event, Governor Mutfwang called on the new advisers and board members to bring their experience and integrity to bear in service of the state.
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‎“Today is a very significant milestone in our effort to deepen governance and bring qualified professionals into public service,” the Governor declared. “We have taken time to carefully select these individuals, not just for politics, but for performance.”
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‎Speaking on the importance of sectoral realignment, the Governor emphasized the strategic repositioning of some appointees to drive sector-specific results. “Habila Mutla has been moved from Plateau United because we are rethinking our grassroots football development. Plateau is a breeding ground for soccer talent, and we are ready to return to inter-school sports across secondary schools,” he said.
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‎Special Advisers inaugurated include Hon. Theophilus Dakas Shan to serve as Special Adviser, National Party Affairs, Hon. Habila Mutla Special Adviser Grassroots Soccer Development while Dr. Markus Amang Avong, a former Registrar of the Veterinary Council of Nigeria, will serve as Special Adviser Livestock and Veterinary Services. ‎Meantime, Hon. Emmanuel Dung Gyibok is the Special Assistant to the Executive Governor on Mines.
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‎The Governor emphasized on the importance of the minning sector to the development of the state, thereby urged Gyibok to organize informal miners to ensure they benefit more from the mining sector.
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‎“We want to help our artisanal miners and ensure they’re not left behind in the mineral economy,” he said.
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Turning to electricity, the Governor reiterated his administration’s ambition to position Plateau at the forefront of power generation and distribution. “We built the first hydro station in Nigeria. Plateau must take electricity seriously. Deregulation is in motion, and we must deliver power to our people,” he affirmed.
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‎He also justified the appointment of Amb. Bagudu Hirse as Chairman of the Electricity Regulatory Commission. “Some may wonder why a diplomat in electricity? But under the previous administration, he led an insightful review of the sector, and we believe he is best positioned to implement that vision,” Mutfwang said.
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‎The Governor also announced the state’s foray into carbon credit initiatives through the inauguration of the Carbon Sequestration Committee.
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‎“This is a global trend. Developed nations won’t reduce their emissions but expect developing countries like ours to absorb it. With Jatropha, a plant native to the Plateau, we can begin to trade in carbon credits while investing in cleaner energy,” he noted.
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‎The Plateau State Electricity Commission has Ambassador Bagudu Hirse as Chairman, State Road Safety Advisory Council has the Deputy Governor Josephine Piyo as Chairman, Victor Dagyet Riyom is the Chairman, Energy Corporation Board, while the Committee on Carbon Sequestration for the Jatropha-to-Biofuel Project in partnership with Noah Regen has Peter Gwom the Hon. Commissioner of Environment as Chairman.
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‎In a vote of thanks, Ambassador Bagudu Hirse, speaking on behalf of all the appointees, appreciated the Governor for the confidence reposed in them.
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‎“We are proud to be part of this reform-oriented administration. We pledge to give our best to support the Time is Now agenda,” he said.
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‎The event marks a strategic role to fast-tracking governance reforms, youth sports development, energy diversification, and climate-friendly policies in Plateau State.

…Distributes Food Packs and Relief Items to over 2,000 people

In a timely gesture aimed at improving the plight of internally displaced persons (IDP) in Benue State, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has distributed mattresses and essential food items to over 2,000 victims of the Yelwata attacks currently taking refuge at the Ultra-Modern International Market IDP Camp in Makurdi.

The donation, which was carried out in collaboration with the Abbasid Charity Foundation, is part of Fidelity Bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting vulnerable communities through its flagship Fidelity Food Bank program. Since its launch in April 2023, the Food Bank has distributed over 200,000 food packs to beneficiaries across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.

Speaking about the donation event, the bank’s Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Dr. Meksley Nwagboh reaffirmed Fidelity Bank’s dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and its mission to uplift communities.

His words, “Since its launch, the Fidelity Food Bank initiative has helped to alleviate the effect of poverty and malnutrition across the country. We are honored to be back in Benue State to continue this impactful initiative, and we hope that today’s donation brings much-needed relief and comfort to the beneficiaries during this difficult time”.

In her remarks, the Executive Officer, the Abbasid Charity Foundation, Mrs. Hawa Abbas, emphasized the importance of restoring dignity to the displaced, stating that the donation of mattresses was to ensure the IDPs no longer sleep on bare floors.

“This gesture is our way of letting the displaced persons know that they are not forgotten. We care deeply for them, and we hope this donation offers some comfort and hope, even in these difficult circumstances,” Abbas noted.

The Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr. James Iorpuu, who was represented by Camp Manager, Mr. Robert Nyom, expressed deep appreciation to Fidelity Bank and the Abbasid Charity Foundation for their timely support.

“Your intervention has brought much-needed relief to the camp and we thank you for your compassion and generosity towards improving the welfare of the displaced persons,” he said.

The bank’s outreach to the International Market IDP Camp in Makurdi represents the most recent of its ongoing critical and timely interventions. Previously, through its Food Bank Initiative, the bank provided essential food items to more than 1,500 residents impacted by the recent flood disaster in Mokwa, Niger State.  

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

In a bold step toward fostering peace and enhancing agricultural productivity, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has commissioned an additional 150 Agro-Rangers to provide dedicated security for farmers and their produce across the state. The initiative is a strategic intervention aimed at ensuring food security and ultimately achieving food sovereignty in Nigeria.

In a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Gyang Bere, on July 8, 2025. “Governor Mutfwang made this known during the Passing-Out Parade (POP) of the Agro-Rangers trainees at the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Command and Staff College, Naton-Fursa, Jos East Local Government Area.

Reiterating his administration’s unwavering commitment to peace, unity, and inclusive development, the Governor stated: “Nigerian farms are national assets that must be protected. Also, the journey of farmers to and from the farms must be safe and secured if we are to guarantee food security for our nation.”

Governor Mutfwang thanked the Almighty God for the occasion and acknowledged the significance of the event in the ongoing efforts to strengthen security and peace across Plateau State. He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and to the nation’s security chiefs for their collaborative efforts in addressing the security challenges confronting the state.

He specifically commended the NSCDC for its innovative Agro-Rangers initiative, describing it as a laudable strategy that complements the efforts of conventional security agencies in safeguarding rural communities and farmlands.

“While our security forces continue to uphold the sovereignty and internal stability of the country, the Agro-Rangers initiative by the NSCDC is a timely and commendable response to the unique security needs of our agrarian communities,” the Governor noted.

He emphasized that rural insecurity undermines national stability and economic growth, warning that a hungry population is vulnerable to manipulation. He stressed the importance of ensuring farmers can cultivate and harvest their crops without fear or threat.

“Our farms are critical national assets that must not only be protected but also cultivated to attain food security and food sovereignty. These Agro-Rangers have been trained to ensure that farmers can return home safely and that the fruits of their labour are not destroyed,” he added.

Governor Mutfwang further revealed that security agencies, including the Agro-Rangers, recently facilitated the peaceful evacuation of thousands of stranded cattle from Bokkos Local Government Area without incident, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining peace through professionalism and dialogue.

Addressing the graduating Agro-Rangers, the Governor charged them to discharge their duties with integrity, fairness, and patriotism.

“What you are called to do is beyond a job, it is a noble sacrifice for your fellow citizens. Uphold justice, fairness, and remain committed to the mission of safeguarding our food systems and communities,” he said.

Earlier, the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, noted that this is the second batch of Agro-Rangers deployed in Plateau State. He affirmed the Corps’ determination to support the State Government in tackling security challenges, especially in farming communities.

“We are proud to be partners in the journey toward sustainable peace and food security. The Agro-Rangers are specially trained to provide security cover for farmers, and we are committed to expanding their operations across the country,” he stated.

Dr. Audi had earlier paid a courtesy visit to Governor Mutfwang at his residence, during which they held productive discussions on strategies to further address insecurity in the state.

…As Governor Mutfwang Expresses Deep Gratitude, Reaffirms Commitment to Lasting Peace

In a remarkable show of compassion and national solidarity, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday, July 3, 2025, announced a donation of N1 billion to support humanitarian interventions for victims of violent attacks in rural communities across Plateau State.

In a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Gyang Bere, on July 3, the donation, made under her Renewed Hope Initiative, is sourced from private contributions and not government funds. Senator Tinubu emphasized that the gesture is aimed at bringing relief to the most vulnerable Nigerians, particularly in conflict-affected regions, and urged Plateau citizens to end the protracted violence and embrace peace and development, especially to unlock the state’s immense tourism potential.

Speaking at a special town hall meeting held at the New Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, the First Lady addressed a cross-section of stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, women, and youth, saying she came as a mother burdened by the persistent bloodshed and loss of lives.

“This visit is deeply emotional for me,” she said. “Each time I hear of killings or disasters, my heart bleeds. Let this be the last time I visit Plateau under such painful circumstances. The next time I come, I want to rejoice with you and celebrate peace, progress, and prosperity.”

Senator Tinubu expressed confidence in the leadership of Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, drawing inspiration from the symbolic strength of his name and praying for divine guidance in his administration’s quest for unity and progress.

“I appeal to all stakeholders to ensure that Plateau does not grieve its leaders again but becomes a beacon of reconciliation and sustainable development,” she said.

The First Lady also made a passionate appeal to traditional and religious leaders to rise above political and ethnic divisions and work collectively to restore peace. “As women, we nurture, not destroy. But we are tired,” she stated. “We appeal to the men—protect us. Let our farmers return to their fields. Let our children move freely across this country without fear.”

Highlighting the importance of legacy, she urged elders to reflect on the future they are leaving behind: “What legacy do you want to be remembered for? Let us hand over to our children a banner without stain.”

Earlier in his remarks, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang warmly welcomed the First Lady and commended her as a true mother of the nation whose compassion and dedication to uplifting humanity is evident in her numerous interventions.

“Your Excellency, I have had the privilege of interacting with you closely. To me, you are more than the First Lady; you are a mother with a deep sense of purpose, committed to alleviating the suffering of Nigerians,” he said.

He praised the Renewed Hope Initiative for its far-reaching impact across the country, especially among vulnerable populations, and recalled her earlier visit to the state during which she provided generous support to internally displaced persons. “Your return today is not only reassuring but also a profound encouragement,” the Governor added.

On the issue of security, Governor Mutfwang assured her of the administration’s steadfast determination to end the decades of violent conflict. “We are working in unity with religious and traditional leaders to bring lasting peace to our people. By God’s grace, this crisis must end,” he stated.

Also present at the event was the wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, who made a symbolic presentation of 1,800 bags of 50kg rice, which she handed over to the Plateau State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative, Her Excellency Barr. Helen Mutfwang, for distribution to the vulnerable, especially persons living with disabilities.

In goodwill messages, the Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, represented by the Miskaham Mwaghavul, Da John Hirse; the State Chairman of JNI and Emir of Wase, HRH Muhammadu Sambo II; the President of COCIN, Rev. Amos Mozo (on behalf of CAN); and Professor Rahila Gowon (on behalf of the women), all expressed deep appreciation to the First Lady for her generosity and motherly concern.

They pledged their support for peace-building efforts on the Plateau and reaffirmed their commitment to the vision of national healing and development as championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

The event was graced by top government officials, judicial officers, heads of security agencies, community leaders, women groups, and other key stakeholders from across the state.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede NAM, has commissioned two blocks of standard accommodation for Corporals and Below, as well as Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) at Dodan Barracks, Obalende, Lagos, on 2 July 2025. This significant milestone underscores the Nigerian Army’s unwavering dedication to enhancing the welfare and living standards of its personnel.

Represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division, Major General Farouk Mijinyawa, the COAS, reiterated the Nigerian Army’s(NA’s) commitment to prioritizing the welfare and morale of its personnel. He emphasized that conducive living conditions are essential to operational efficiency and readiness, and thus, the NA’s leadership is genuinely concerned about personnel welfare. The COAS congratulated the beneficiaries and charged them to ensure the proper maintenance of the facilities.

Earlier, the Commander 81 Division Garrison, Brigadier General Hassan Bukar, in his welcome remarks, highlighted the significance of the newly constructed accommodation. He noted that the initiative would not only boost troops’ morale but also demonstrate the NA’s commitment to the welfare of its personnel. He expressed profound gratitude to the COAS for his tireless efforts to improve troops’ living standards and commended the GOC for his continuous leadership, guidance, and support.

The representative of the COAS was taken on a guided tour of the facilities by the Commander 81 Division Garrison and the Commander 45 Engineer Brigade, Brigadier General MO Momoh. Keys were symbolically presented to beneficiaries, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the COAS for his continuous efforts in enhancing their better living conditions and welfare. The ceremony concluded with a group photograph session, marking a significant milestone in the NA’s commitment to troops welfare.

The Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Comrade Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), has issued a strong call for the cancellation of illegitimate and dubious debts, urgent reform of global financial institutions, and a strengthened legislative role in financing for development and accountable spending. His remarks were made as civil society organisations, government officials, and global development advocates gathered in Sevilla, Spain, for the Financing for Development Conference.

Rafsanjani, who also heads Transparency International Nigeria, emphasised the need for African lawmakers to be more actively engaged in shaping and overseeing financial decisions that affect national development.

“Legislators must not be sidelined. Legislators have the constitutional mandate to approve budgets, approve loans, monitor debt agreements, and ensure that public and borrowed funds are used transparently and equitably,” he stated.

Call for Debt Justice and Systemic Reform

At the core of his message was the demand for the total cancellation of Debts by Odious or Fraudulent Origin (DBOs)—debts incurred without public consent or accountability.

“These debts are unjust. Their enforcement continues to stall development, burden future generations, and weaken national sovereignty,” Rafsanjani declared.

CISLAC echoed Christian Aid’s call for the UK government to legislate limits on private creditors suing sovereign governments in UK courts, as most Nigerian private debt is governed under UK law. Rafsanjani further supported demands for mandatory private creditor participation in debt renegotiation processes, including through a UN debt workout mechanism.

The statement also aligned with Oxfam’s and Tax Justice Africa’s advocacy for increased concessional financing from wealthy nations and an end to fossil fuel subsidies that worsen climate impacts for vulnerable communities.

Legislative Role in Tax Reform and Financial Integrity

On the issue of taxation, Rafsanjani emphasised the importance of legislative action to close tax loopholes, prevent illicit financial flows, and ensure compliance among multinationals and the wealthy elite.

“Lawmakers must strengthen financial integrity laws, demand public access to beneficial ownership registers, and enforce stronger oversight of professional enablers who facilitate tax evasion and money laundering.”

He noted that robust public financial management, transparency in debt contracting, and oversight across all stages of the budget process are critical to safeguarding public funds and maximising development impact.

Inclusive Global Governance and Legislative Oversight

Rafsanjani also called for the democratisation of international financial institutions such as the IMF and World Bank, stating that they are currently dominated by powerful nations and lack inclusive representation.

“We need a global financial system where African voices matter, and where oversight is not a formality but a right.”

He stressed that legislative institutions in Africa must be empowered to hold both domestic and international actors accountable, enhance transparency in debt negotiations, and prioritise spending in critical sectors such as climate, health, and education. Responsible and effective financing for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria and across Africa will help address poverty, reduce inequality, and ensure access to justice, peace, and inclusive institutions.

Rafsanjani urged the Nigerian government to ensure full coordination and implementation of the conference resolutions, with the inclusive participation of all stakeholders including civil society to guarantee a holistic and impactful execution.

“We are here in Sevilla to push for a fairer global system, stronger legislative engagement, and sustainable solutions that reflect the will and welfare of our people,” Rafsanjani concluded.

The conference continues with high-level dialogues on debt justice, climate finance, tax equity, and inclusive economic transformation. It features active participation from African civil society, parliamentary and legislative representatives, and Transparency International chapters across the world. The delegation is being led by Maíra Martini, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), who is demanding more transparent and accountable frameworks for debt contracting and management as critical measures for safeguarding public resources and promoting long-term debt sustainability.

No fewer than 30 young entrepreneurs have been awarded a ₦16 million business grant by Unity Bank Plc during the latest edition of its flagship entrepreneurship development initiative, the Corpreneurship Challenge.

The winners, budding entrepreneurs developing innovative solutions across various business value chains including fashion design, bag making, pastry making, event management, beauty, vegetable farming, and more, emerged tops after participating in a business pitch competition held recently for Batch A Stream 2 across 10 NYSC Orientation Camps in Cross River, Niger, Abuja, Nasarawa, Taraba, Kaduna, Plateau, Jigawa, Anambra, and Lagos States.

At the NYSC Orientation Camp in Ipaja, Lagos State, corps member Adeniyi Stephen Gbemininyi, who pitched a fashion design business, emerged as the overall winner, clinching the ₦800,000 grand prize. Kolawole Opeoluwa Darasimi, a budding bag maker, won a ₦500,000 grant, while Johnson Elizabeth Ene received a ₦300,000 grant to support her cake and pastry business.

Across the remaining nine states, 27 other winners also emerged after pitching business plans in diverse sectors such as fish production, poultry farming, fashion, soap and cake making, printing, piggery, beverage production, and more.

Over the past six years, the Unity Bank Corpreneurship Challenge has become an integral part of the NYSC programme, aligning with the Federal Government’s commitment to upskilling fresh graduates amid the growing dearth of white-collar jobs. The programme attracts thousands of applications from serving NYSC corps members, whose business plans are evaluated for originality, marketability, employability potential, and overall business acumen.

Speaking during the grand finale in Lagos, Unity Bank’s Divisional Head, Retail & SME, Mrs. Adenike Abimbola, said: “At Unity Bank, we believe that empowering young people to shape Nigeria’s economic future must be supported to provide longer-term sustainability. Through the Corpreneurship Challenge, we are not just providing funding, but nurturing a new generation of entrepreneurs equipped with the skills, resources, and confidence to create jobs and transform communities. The success stories we see year after year reaffirm our commitment to youth empowerment and SME development.”

She added: “The overwhelming interest and high quality of business ideas we receive in every edition demonstrate the incredible potential among Nigeria’s youth. We are proud to partner with the NYSC SAED to make these dreams a reality.”

The Corpreneurship Challenge has earned Unity Bank national recognition for its contribution to youth empowerment and job creation, attracting over 2,000 applicants per edition.

In partnership with the NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme, the initiative features a business pitch competition that allows participants to present their business plans and win grants of up to ₦800,000.

So far, Unity Bank has invested over ₦100 million in the initiative, producing over 160 winners since its launch in 2019.

…Reaffirms Commitment to Revitalizing Tourism Sector

As part of ongoing efforts to reposition Plateau State as a premier destination for leisure and investment, the Executive Governor, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, undertook an inspection tour of the remodeling works at the iconic Plateau Hotel and Hill Station Hotel, both located in Jos, the state capital.

During the visit, Governor Mutfwang described the hotels as monumental legacy assets intricately woven into the cultural and economic fabric of Plateau State, facilities which, for too long, had been left in a state of disrepair.

“A lot of the history of Plateau State is tied to assets like this,” the Governor stated, expressing satisfaction with the progress of work and optimism about their full revival.

In a statement issued by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Gyang Bere, on
July 2, Governor Mutfwang further emphasized that his administration is pursuing strategic partnerships with private investors to reduce dependence on public funds while ensuring long-term sustainability. He disclosed that a significant portion of the Plateau Hotel project is expected to be completed and ready for use by December 1, 2025.

At the Plateau Hotel site, the investor, Aviare Global Concept Ltd., led by Chairman/CEO Mr. Kudla Satumari, outlined key features of the rehabilitation project. These include a dual carriage access road, extensive landscaping with palm trees, a state-of-the-art control and security center with CCTV surveillance, and a redesigned perimeter fence aimed at enhancing both aesthetics and guest safety.

At the historic Hill Station Hotel, the developers, Hillside Hospitality Ltd., reported that Phase One of the project has reached 45% completion. Ongoing construction works include the hotel fence and gatehouses, a modern gym, poolside bar, twin swimming pools, laundry café, and other auxiliary services. Progress is also being recorded on the main building annex, conference halls, and overall site landscaping. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing installations are underway, with CCTV infrastructure and NESCO power connectivity also being prioritized. The entire project currently stands at approximately 50% completion.

The Hill Station Hotel project is being spearheaded by Project Manager Arc. Okechukwu Izeogu, Lead Supervisor Arch. Racheal Dawurung, and Project Director Oluwadamilola Awoyomi.

Governor Mutfwang commended the project teams for their professionalism and dedication. He reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to restoring Plateau State’s image as the Home of Peace and Tourism by reviving its once-vibrant hospitality and tourism sector.