Sowore Foundation Scatter Better Life for Kiribo: 250 Students Collect Scholarship, Artisans Chop Empowerment as #ComeToKiribo 2026 Burst Ground! Na joy full Kiribo, Ondo State as Sowore Foundation share 250 scholarships give students for Medicine, Nursing, Law plus empower artisans and people with special needs during the 2026 #ComeToKiribo Festival. The event draw people from Nigeria, Ghana and Benin as culture, sports and education jam together. Omoyele Sowore talk say Kiribo Road Race na the first marathon for January 1 anywhere for world, to wake community spirit, promote health and show say citizens fit succeed where government fail. In honour him late papa, the foundation drop over N20 million, support 45 artisans, reward students N1m for winners. Kiribo don turn village dreams.

Sowore Foundation Awards 250 Scholarships, Empowers 45 Artisans; Hosts 2026 #ComeToKiribo Festival in Ondo The Sowore Foundation, founded by human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore, has awarded scholarships to 250 students studying Medicine, Nursing, Law, and other disciplines, while also empowering 45 artisans and vulnerable individuals. The interventions coincided with the 2026 edition of the annual #ComeToKiribo Festival, held on January 1, 2026, in Kiribo, Ondo State. Speaking at the event, Sowore described the Kiribo Road Race as both symbolic and historic, noting that it is the first marathon race anywhere in the world held every year on January 1. Beyond celebration, the festival served as a platform for education, empowerment, and community development, drawing attention to grassroots support initiatives often missing from mainstream governance efforts. Question: Should community-driven initiatives like this play a bigger role where government support falls short? #ComeToKiribo #SoworeFoundation #OndoState #EducationAndEmpowerment

Wahala Don Set Oo! Nigerian BEA Scholar in Hungary Faces Expulsion Over Unpaid $10,450 Allowance Wahala don really set for abroad oo! A Nigerian postgraduate student studying in Hungary under the Federal Government’s Bilateral Education Agreement (BEA) scholarship has raised alarm after spending over one year without receiving a single kobo of his approved allowances. Now, he is facing possible expulsion and homelessness because his residence permit is about to expire. The student, Oluwasegun Michael Ogundele of the University of Pannonia, has petitioned the House of Representatives Committee on Student Loans, Scholarships, and Higher Education Financing, crying out that since he resumed studies in September 2024, the Federal Scholarship Board (FSB) and the Federal Ministry of Education have failed to pay any of the funds promised under his scholarship. According to him, the agreement between the Nigerian and Hungarian governments clearly stated his entitlements, yet nothing has been paid till date. These include a $6,000 yearly allowance, $250 for warm clothing, $200 for health insurance, a N100,000 take-off grant, a $1,000 postgraduate research grant, and a return ticket to Nigeria. In total, the unpaid money now stands at $10,450. Ogundele said the situation has pushed him into serious hardship. For the past 18 months, he has survived only on a small monthly stipend of about €110 from Hungary’s Tempus Scholarship Foundation. He described his condition as one of illness, emotional trauma, and constant anxiety about basic survival. “My academic performance and mental health have suffered. I am constantly worried about how to eat, pay bills, and remain legal in this country,” he said. The wahala no end there. His programme is expected to finish by January 30, 2026, while his residence permit expires the very next day. Yet, he has no money to buy a ticket back to Nigeria. His passage allowance of $2,500, which should help him return home, has also not been paid. He further revealed that he has not taken up any paid job because scholarship rules forbid it. Still, despite obeying all conditions, the government has failed to honour its own agreement. In his petition, Ogundele begged the House Committee to urgently intervene and ensure immediate payment of all outstanding entitlements. He warned that his case is not isolated, stating that many Nigerian students abroad under the BEA scheme are suffering in silence. Some, according to him, have taken degrading jobs to survive, while others have reportedly died due to stress and untreated illnesses. “Many of us are being treated like beggars abroad. We are looked down upon, and it has destroyed our dignity as Nigerians. The suffering imposed on us is unimaginable,” he wrote. The matter has also drawn political attention. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar recently accused the Tinubu administration of abandoning Nigerian students under the BEA programme, saying over 1,600 students abroad are owed stipends and have been left stranded. However, the Federal Government has denied abandoning students, stating that funding delays were due to fiscal constraints and that it remains committed to students already enrolled. The Ministry of Education also disclosed that no new bilateral scholarships were awarded in 2025, as Nigeria now claims it has enough local capacity to train students at home. But for students like Ogundele, policy explanations no dey stop hunger. As his deadline approaches and eviction looms, Nigerians are now asking: how can a government send students abroad in the name of national development, then leave them to suffer alone? One thing be sure: wahala don set oo for this BEA scholarship matter—and everybody dey watch how government go respond.

Atiku Blasts Tinubu Govt Over Abandoning Nigerian Students Abroad 😡🎓 People, wahala don burst! Former VP Atiku Abubakar don accuse Tinubu administration of leaving about 1,600 Nigerian students stranded abroad after quietly stopping the BEA scholarship programme. Students supposed to get stipends of $6,000+ each—nothing paid since 2025 💸 Some faced hunger, unpaid rent, even life-threatening medical emergencies One tragic case: student in Morocco died reportedly due to hardship 😢 Atiku calls it “cruel, negligent, and damaging to Nigeria’s international reputation” Government allegedly offered to sponsor students back home instead—callous! BEA originally meant to build Nigeria’s future workforce in countries like China, Russia, Morocco, Hungary Federal Ministry of Education, however, denies abandonment Says no new scholarships in 2025 Existing students supposed to be supported until completion Policy now focuses on local training programs to save public funds Atiku warns: “Abandoning students mid-course destroys years of effort and Nigeria’s credibility” 💥

Why Is the UAE Cutting Scholarships for UK Universities? Is Fear of Islamist Radicalisation on British Campuses Redefining Emirati Foreign Policy, Student Mobility, and UK–Gulf Relations? Is the United Arab Emirates quietly reshaping global student mobility—and sending a political message to Britain in the process? The UAE has begun restricting state-funded scholarships for students seeking to study in the United Kingdom, citing concerns that some British university campuses are being influenced or “radicalised” by Islamist groups. Officials in Abu Dhabi confirmed to the Financial Times and The Times that federal funding for Emirati citizens planning to enrol in UK universities has been curtailed. The move reflects deepening unease within the UAE over what it views as the growing ideological presence of Islamist networks on British campuses, particularly those allegedly linked to the Muslim Brotherhood, which the UAE designates as a terrorist organisation. While the UAE has not imposed an outright ban on studying in the UK, the policy change marks a significant shift. Wealthier families can still send students abroad using private funds, and government scholarships remain available for studies in other countries. However, the restriction is already affecting numbers: UK student visa data show a sharp decline in Emirati enrolment, with only 213 UAE students granted UK study visas in the year ending September 2025—a 27% drop from the previous year and a 55% fall compared to 2022. This is particularly striking given that the Emirati student population in the UK had doubled between 2017 and 2024 to around 8,500 students, with major concentrations at institutions such as King’s College London, University College London, the University of Manchester, the University of Leeds, and the University of Central Lancashire. At the heart of the decision lies long-standing political tension between Abu Dhabi and London. The UAE has repeatedly urged Britain to ban the Muslim Brotherhood, a group it considers a security threat. However, successive UK governments have declined to proscribe the organisation. A 2014 inquiry ordered by then-Prime Minister David Cameron, led by former ambassador Sir John Jenkins, concluded that the Brotherhood’s beliefs were incompatible with British values but found insufficient legal grounds for a ban. More recently, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has said he would proscribe the group if elected, underscoring how the issue has become embedded in British political debate. Concerns in Britain about alleged Islamist influence on university campuses have also fueled controversy. Student organisations have faced scrutiny for hosting speakers accused of promoting extremist ideologies, with critics warning that academic spaces may be vulnerable to ideological recruitment. For the UAE, which has previously jailed suspected Brotherhood members and strongly supported Egypt’s 2013 military ouster of President Mohammed Morsi, the presence of any perceived Brotherhood influence abroad is seen as a direct security risk. A Middle East expert quoted by The Times suggested that the Emirati leadership is “obsessed” with the Brotherhood, describing it as more of an ideological movement than a tightly organised group. According to the source, the scholarship restrictions function as a “warning shot” to students, signalling that engagement with Islamist networks abroad could carry consequences back home. Beyond education policy, the move raises broader geopolitical questions. Is the UAE using scholarships as a diplomatic lever to pressure the UK? Will other Gulf states follow suit? And what does this mean for Britain’s position as a global education hub, especially at a time when international student numbers are critical to university funding? As Emirati students increasingly turn to alternative destinations, the policy may reshape academic exchange, economic ties, and cultural diplomacy between the Gulf and the UK. More fundamentally, it highlights how security concerns, ideological conflict, and foreign policy priorities are now directly influencing where young people are allowed—or encouraged—to study abroad.

VDM Calls Out President Tinubu Over Failed Scholarship Promises to Nigerian Students in Morocco Nigerian activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as Verydarkman (VDM), has publicly criticized President Bola Tinubu and his son, Seyi Tinubu, over the deteriorating conditions some Nigerian students are reportedly facing in Morocco. The students, granted scholarships by the Nigerian government, were promised full support including a $500 monthly allowance, and were allegedly instructed not to work while studying. In a video shared online, VDM revealed that some students have suffered serious consequences due to the government’s alleged failure to deliver on these promises. He claimed that one student died while another sustained a broken leg after attempting to work secretly to survive. He also highlighted the poor state of their accommodation, where up to five students were crammed into rooms meant for one, lacking electricity and proper study facilities. VDM warned that if students continue to be neglected, they may resort to cybercrime, which could negatively impact Nigeria’s international image. He also alleged that attempts by students to reach out to influencers and media houses were met with demands for money before their stories could be shared. The activist called on the government to intervene urgently and suggested that funds meant for students may have been embezzled. VDM’s video has received praise from fans who expressed outrage at the government’s inaction and applauded his advocacy for the students’ rights. This incident underscores ongoing concerns about government accountability in managing scholarship programs and protecting Nigerian students abroad, and it adds to VDM’s history of activism, which includes previous solo protests addressing national insecurity issues.

Broken Promise? Why Has Tinubu’s Government Failed to Give Ex-Corps Members the Jobs It Promised Since July? | Fintter Was the promise of “automatic employment” for ex-corps members a genuine commitment—or just another political announcement that has quietly faded away? Five months after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration publicly announced automatic employment, scholarships, and financial rewards for 210 honoured ex-corps members, the promised jobs are yet to materialise. What was once celebrated as a bold gesture of appreciation for young Nigerians who “went beyond the call of duty” has now become a painful reminder of unfulfilled government pledges. In a statement released by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) on July 29, the Tinubu government announced that 210 ex-corps members from the 2020–2023 service years would receive automatic employment in the Federal Civil Service, scholarships up to doctoral level within Nigeria, and cash awards of ₦250,000 each. Among them were individuals who had demonstrated exceptional service—and others who had suffered life-changing injuries while serving the nation. For many of the beneficiaries, the announcement was more than symbolic recognition. It represented hope, stability, and a long-awaited breakthrough after years of struggle, unemployment, and sacrifice. But today, that hope has turned into frustration, exhaustion, and a deep sense of betrayal. According to affected ex-corps members who spoke anonymously for fear of victimisation, no job placements have been made, no official communication has followed, and no clear explanation has been given by either the government or the NYSC. Although the promised cash award was reportedly paid, the most critical aspect of the pledge—automatic employment—remains unfulfilled. In October 2025, after public pressure intensified following investigative reports, the ex-corps members were invited to Abuja and instructed to submit documents for “urgent processing.” Many travelled long distances, spending scarce resources they could barely afford. Some arrived without accommodation or support, driven only by the hope that the long-promised jobs were finally becoming a reality. Yet, weeks turned into months—and no one contacted them again. One affected ex-corps member described borrowing money to make the trip, only to return home with nothing. Another said he slept in a religious centre, enduring discomfort and mosquito-infested nights, believing the government was finally about to fulfil its word. Instead, they were met with silence. Even more troubling are the stories of ex-corps members who sustained permanent injuries during national service. For them, the promise of government employment was not merely an opportunity—it was a lifeline. Many say private employers now reject them because of their disabilities. The government’s pledge had restored their sense of dignity and belonging, if only briefly. One injured ex-corps member said: “When they promised automatic employment, I believed there was still a place for me in this country despite my condition. Today, nobody has even called or sent an email.” The emotional toll has been devastating. Beneficiaries say the process left them financially drained, psychologically exhausted, and feeling used for public relations. What was once a moment of national praise has become a story of disappointment, neglect, and broken trust. The situation raises serious questions about government accountability, youth unemployment, and the credibility of public promises. If young Nigerians who risked their lives in service of the nation can be publicly honoured—and then quietly ignored—what message does that send to millions of other youths struggling for opportunity? Now, the affected ex-corps members are appealing directly to the federal government to redeem its word. They insist they do not want sympathy or publicity—they want action. As one of them put it: “We don’t want to be used as tools for government promotion. We only ask that the promises made to us be fulfilled.” --- 💬 Conversation Starters for Fintter Readers Should government promises come with legal consequences when they are not fulfilled? Is this another example of young Nigerians being used for political image-building? Why has there been no official explanation from the Presidency or the NYSC? What does this mean for trust in future government youth empowerment programmes? 👉 Join the discussion on Fintter: Do you believe the Tinubu administration will still honour this promise—or has it already been abandoned?

“Tinubu Government Cites Fiscal Challenges for Delayed Support to Nigerian Scholars in Morocco” The Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian government has addressed allegations that Nigerian students studying in Morocco under federal scholarships have been abandoned, attributing delays to “temporary fiscal challenges.” This response comes amid claims by several students that they were left without financial support, shelter, or medical care over several years, with some facing life-threatening situations. One final-year medical student reported that scholarship beneficiaries, recruited to train as future doctors for Nigeria, were struggling to meet basic needs. Another case involved a student named Umar, who suffered from appendicitis requiring urgent surgery, highlighting the serious risks faced by the scholars. In a statement released by the Federal Ministry of Education, Director of Press Boriowo Folasade quoted Education Minister Dr. Maruf Alausa, who confirmed that no Nigerian student on a valid Federal Government scholarship has been abandoned. The ministry explained that students enrolled under the Bilateral Education Scholarship Programme prior to 2024 received funding up to the 2024 budget year. Any delays in payments were attributed to fiscal constraints, with ongoing coordination between the Ministries of Education and Finance to resolve outstanding issues. The ministry further clarified that no new bilateral scholarships were awarded in 2025, dismissing circulating documents as “fake and unauthenticated.” According to the government, overseas scholarships have been scaled down following a policy review, citing sufficient capacity in Nigerian universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education to accommodate affected programs locally. Under the new framework, only scholarships fully funded by host foreign governments are supported. Despite these changes, the government reiterated its commitment to students already enrolled abroad, promising continued support until they complete their studies. Students wishing to discontinue overseas programs may return to Nigerian institutions, with the Federal Government covering return travel costs. The ministry justified the reforms as a measure to reduce avoidable financial burdens on public resources while strengthening domestic educational capacity. The government concluded by rejecting what it described as misinformation or attempts to undermine policies, emphasizing that it remains dedicated to the welfare and academic progress of Nigerian students abroad.

Nigerian Scholars Abandoned in Morocco Lament Hunger, Unpaid Rents, Medical Neglect, Urge Tinubu Government to Disburse Stipends Nigerian students on federal government scholarships in Morocco have accused the Tinubu administration of abandoning them to extreme hardship, hunger, unpaid rents, and medical neglect. Social media activist Martins Otse, known as VeryDarkMan, released a video highlighting the plight of these students, who say they have gone without promised monthly stipends for years. Students claim the scholarship prohibits them from working, leaving many stranded without income. One student suffered a broken thigh bone while secretly seeking work, while another recounted the death of a fellow scholar, Bashir Malami, due to untreated tuberculosis. Cases of life-threatening medical emergencies, unpaid hospital bills, and eviction threats were reported. The scholars appealed to the Federal Government to urgently intervene, warning that their academic futures and lives are at risk. As of the report, the Nigerian government has not responded.

NMDPRA Boss Farouk Ahmed Rejects Dangote’s Corruption Allegations, Calls for Full EFCC, ICPC and National Assembly Probe The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed, has denied corruption allegations levelled against him by Dangote Group President, Aliko Dangote, describing the claims as misleading and politically motivated. Ahmed said his rise in Nigeria’s petroleum sector since 1991 was merit-based and defended his financial record, including the education of his children abroad, citing scholarships, family support and decades of personal savings. He linked the timing of the allegations to recent regulatory actions enforcing fuel quality standards, stricter licensing and transparent pricing under the Petroleum Industry Act. Ahmed formally invited the Code of Conduct Bureau, EFCC, ICPC and the National Assembly to investigate his assets and tenure, insisting his record would withstand any legitimate scrutiny. Dangote, however, has petitioned the ICPC, accusing the regulator of abuse of office, illicit enrichment and frustrating local refining through fuel import licences.

Gov. Buni Approves Scholarships for 28,346 Yobe Students, Doubles All Allowances Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni , has approved the disbursement of scholarships and bursaries to 28,346 Yobe State indigenes currently studying in tertiary institutions across Nigeria, in what has been described as one of the most far-reaching educational interventions by any state government in recent times. The approval underscores the Governor’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, access to education, and human capital development as critical pillars for sustainable growth. According to the Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Scholarship Board (YSSB), Dr. Kagu Abubakar, Yobe State University recorded the highest number of beneficiaries with 7,636 successful applicants, reflecting the steady growth of the institution and the increasing enrolment of Yobe indigenes in higher education. Students of other universities, polytechnics, colleges of education and specialized institutions across the country are also captured in the comprehensive beneficiary list. Dr. Kagu disclosed that Governor Buni has further approved a 100 percent increment in all categories of scholarship payments, effectively doubling what students previously received. Under the new payment regime, PGDE, Master’s and PhD students will now receive ₦110,000, up from the former ₦55,000. While undergraduate students will receive ₦46,000, as against ₦23,000 previously paid. HND, NCE and National Diploma students will now receive ₦34,000, instead of the former ₦17,000, while students pursuing other Diploma, Certificate and Consultancy programmes will now receive ₦26,000, up from ₦13,000. The increment, he noted, is in recognition of the prevailing economic realities and the rising cost of education across the country. To ensure transparency, efficiency and smooth implementation of the exercise, the Scholarship Board recently convened a joint stakeholders’ meeting involving representatives of the House Committee on Higher Education, officials of the Ministry of Higher Education, Youth and Sports, education Focal Persons, as well as student leaders from various tertiary institutions. The meeting reviewed the operational framework, harmonized schedules and addressed logistical issues to guarantee the successful execution of the exercise nationwide. In line with established procedures, Dr. Kagu stated that the names, admission details and academic records of all successful beneficiaries will be forwarded to their respective institutions and recognized student bodies, while a comprehensive timetable for the disbursement exercise will be officially released to guide students and institutions accordingly. This, he emphasized, is to prevent congestion, ensure orderliness and eliminate sharp practices. The Executive Secretary conveyed the gratitude and appreciation of students, parents and guardians across Yobe State to Governor Mai Mala Buni for his continued and consistent investment in education. He noted that the scholarship scheme has remained a major source of relief for thousands of families, improved school retention rates, and strengthened access to tertiary education for indigent but brilliant students across the state. Dr. Kagu assured that the Office of the Public Relations Officer of the Yobe State Scholarship Board will continue to provide regular updates to all schools, beneficiaries and the general public on developments relating to the exercise, stressing that the Board remains committed to accountability, transparency and timely service delivery in the execution of its mandate.

FG to Enforce Return-Home Bond for Government-Funded Scholars Abroad. The Federal Government has unveiled plans to implement a bonding policy for Nigerians studying abroad on government-funded scholarships to ensure they return home and contribute to national development after completing their studies. The Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Sonny Echono, made this known during the maiden TETFund National Town Hall Meeting held on Wednesday in Abuja. Echono said the move was part of President Bola Tinubu’s directive to curb the growing trend of skilled Nigerians remaining abroad after benefiting from government sponsorships. “Mr. President expressed concern that many of those sent abroad for studies fail to return, which he considers unfair. He has therefore instructed that measures be put in place not to halt foreign training but to ensure beneficiaries are properly bonded and compelled to return to contribute to national development,” Echono stated. He described the increasing number of absconding scholars as a major setback to Nigeria’s human capital growth, emphasizing that the new policy would safeguard the country’s investment in education and research. According to him, the government also plans to identify critical sectors where Nigeria needs to build global competitiveness and ensure that scholars trained in those areas return to strengthen the local workforce. “When we train people, they must return to apply their knowledge here and help grow our economy,” he added. Echono further disclosed that over 137 government-sponsored scholars have failed to return after completing their studies abroad. The figure, drawn from a review of about 40 institutions, highlights a widespread problem within the system.

Kano outperforms Lagos, Oyo, others in 2025 NECO SSCE results. Kano State has emerged as the best-performing state in the 2025 Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE Internal) conducted by the National Examinations Council (NECO).  The state recorded 68,159 candidates (5.02% of the national total) with five credits and above, including Mathematics and English. Lagos followed with 67,007 candidates (4.93%), while Oyo placed third with 48,742. Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, through his spokesperson Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, said the feat validates his administration’s education reforms.  He noted that education received the highest allocation in the 2024 and 2025 budgets, enabling school rehabilitation, free uniforms and materials, recruitment and training of teachers, and expanded access to learning. He highlighted girl-child education, scholarships, and reducing out-of-school children as key drivers of Kano’s success. “Our reforms are clearly yielding results, and this outstanding performance proves Kano is on the right path. Education remains our top priority, and we will ensure no child is left behind,” Yusuf said. Observers say the state’s success has drawn national recognition, with newspapers and the Nigeria Union of Teachers naming Yusuf “Education Governor of the Year.” They described the performance as proof of sustained investment in human capital. Yusuf had declared a state of emergency in education in 2024 and allocated 31% of the 2025 budget to the sector as part of a recovery plan. Meanwhile, NECO Registrar, Prof. Ibrahim Wushishi, announcing the results in Minna, said 818,492 of 1,358,339 candidates (60.26%) scored five credits and above, including English and Mathematics, while 1,144,496 (84.26%) obtained five credits and above irrespective of the two core subjects.

FG Rewards Nafisah Abdullahi Who Won Global English Contest with N200,000. The Federal Government has rewarded Nafisah Abdullahi, winner of the TeenEagle Global Finals, with N200,000 for her outstanding performance. Earlier, the Atiku Foundation had offered fully funded scholarships to Nafisa, Rukaiya Fema, and Khadija Kalli for their “remarkable success” at the international contest. At a recognition ceremony in Abuja on Thursday, Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, and Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suiwaba Ahmad, hailed Nafisa as “a beacon of excellence and inspiration to Nigerian youths.” Representing Nigeria through Nigerian Tulip International College, Nafisa beat over 20,000 contestants from 69 countries, including native English speakers, to win the world title. TeenEagle tests proficiency in English, critical thinking, and communication. Alausa stressed government efforts to boost education and reduce out-of-school children, noting President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to human capital development. “You are the future of Nigeria, and you have made us proud. For the first time in the history of our nation, we have one of the highest budgetary allocations to education… Your success gives us the confidence to ask for more, and we will continue to do so on your behalf,” he said. The minister also gave Nafisa and other outstanding students over N100,000. Prof. Ahmad added, “Nigerian youths can compete and excel globally. Nafisa has demonstrated that Nigeria is blessed and can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best in the world. You are a shining example.” Nafisa thanked President Tinubu, the ministers, her school NTIC, and her parents. Yobe State’s Commissioner for Basic Education, Prof. Abba Idris, also praised the ministers, affirming the state’s pride in celebrating education.

Fake ‘Diogo Jota Foundation’ Website Disappears After Raising £50,000 — Family, Liverpool Deny Links. A fraudulent website posing as the “Diogo Jota Foundation” has vanished after reportedly raising nearly £50,000, despite having no ties to Liverpool FC or the late player’s family. The site appeared just three days after Jota’s death in July, claiming to support youth, education, and community projects in his honour. It displayed the logos of Liverpool, Unicef, Allianz, and the Portuguese Platform of Development NGOs, but those organisations later denied any involvement. On Thursday, both Liverpool FC and Jota’s relatives publicly distanced themselves from the alleged foundation. The UK Charity Commission also confirmed that no registration had ever been filed, even though charities earning over £5,000 annually must register. The website boasted of distributing 25,000 meals, sponsoring 300 children, and forming 50 local partnerships. It also claimed to fund football camps, scholarships, and community programmes. However, donations were only accepted in cryptocurrency via an external payment platform. NOWPayments, the crypto processor named on the site, denied handling any transactions and said its services were cut off immediately after learning of the alleged fraud. Liverpool FC has since announced a legitimate grassroots football project in Jota’s name, to be run through the LFC Foundation. Earlier this month, the club also launched a commemorative “Forever 20” T-shirt to raise funds for the initiative.

Yobe’s Golden Girls Shine Globally — But Federal Recognition Still Missing! Three brilliant students from Yobe State — Nafisa Abdullahi Aminu, Rukayya Muhammad Fema, and Hadiza Kashim Kalli — have brought Nigeria international glory by winning top awards at the 2025 TeenEagle Global Finals in London, triumphing over tens of thousands of contestants from nearly 70 countries in English language mastery, debate, and talent showcase. While Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni has pledged a grand reception, the Federal Government’s response has been limited to words of praise from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu — without tangible rewards like scholarships, housing, or national honours. This has sparked nationwide debate and online outrage, with prominent Nigerians like Atiku Abubakar and Isa Ali Pantami urging the government to honour the trio as national heroes — just as the Super Falcons and D’Tigress were rewarded with cash, homes, and honours after sporting victories. Critics say the lack of recognition fuels perceptions of northern marginalisation, especially as the girls hail from conflict-affected Yobe. Supporters argue it shouldn’t be turned into a regional fight, but the controversy adds to growing political tension over perceived neglect of the North. #YobeChampions #TeenEagle2025 #NigeriaYouthPower #EducationalExcellence #FromYobeToTheWorld

Nathaniel Bassey To Spend Time at KiriKiri: Here’s Why. Nathaniel Bassey, the Nigerian gospel singer, is set to perform at the Kirikiri Medium Security Prison in Lagos in celebration of his forthcoming birthday. According to the gospel singer via his Instagram page, the event titled “Kirikiri Edition” will be held on 27th August, his birth date and will also feature praise and worship, food distribution and scholarships for some inmates. “Later this month, 27th August 2025, I would be leading my brethren in the kiri medium prison in a Hallelujah challenge Praise and worship special session. Saxophonist and renowned gospel artiste, Nathaniel Bassey This is my heart’s desire for my birthday. We’ll praise, eat together and afterwards give out some scholarships,” he wrote in an Instagram post. According to the gospel singer, the outreach will not be streamed due to security reasons. He continued: “The first ever Hallelujah challenge was in Acts 16:25‑26, When Paul and Silas prayed and sang praises to God. Though we may not stream this for security reasons, but you can pray along with us as we go. “We trust God for liberty of the spirit and massive harvests of souls in Jesus’ name. Meanwhile, are you ready for the October edition?” Nathaniel Bassey is a pastor, trumpeter, and songwriter popularly known for his songs ‘Imela’, ‘Onise Iyanu’, and ‘Olowogbogboro’. He has established himself as one of the prominent gospel ministers in Nigeria.

Pres. Tinubu Orders Employment, ₦250K Awards for 200 NYSC Honorees. President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate employment of 200 former National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members into the federal civil service and awarded them ₦250,000 each for outstanding performance during the 2020–2023 service years. Speaking at the NYSC Honours Award Ceremony in Abuja through Minister of State for Labour, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, Tinubu also directed the employment of 10 physically challenged ex-corps members who sustained injuries while serving the nation. In addition to the cash rewards and job placements, all awardees will receive scholarships to pursue postgraduate studies in Nigerian universities. “These honorees have shown discipline, patriotism, and integrity. Their employment process will begin immediately,” Tinubu said, reaffirming his commitment to youth empowerment through education, innovation, and job creation. Top male awardees include Nunaya Polycarp, Okpogbo Alvin, Dr. Ugwa Obinna, and Rabiu Quadri. Female honorees are Akase Pati and Igwe Anne. Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, praised the President’s dedication to youth, citing the increase in corps members’ allowance from ₦33,000 to ₦77,000 and broader support for youth-led innovation and leadership. NYSC DG, Brig. Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, highlighted corps members’ impact on rural health, education, voter education, and tech development. In 2025 alone, over 6,000 medical corps members delivered free health services to 4 million Nigerians in underserved areas. He also noted that over 250,000 corps members are trained annually in entrepreneurship and tech skills and expressed optimism over the NYSC Trust Fund Bill, which he said will boost post-service opportunities. “You no longer wear khaki, but now carry the confidence of a grateful nation,” Nafiu told the honorees. Instablog9jaNews

JUST IN: Governor Zulum Grants Scholarships to Children of Fallen CJTF Heroes In a compassionate and commendable move, Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has announced scholarships for the children of Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) members who lost their lives in a recent Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast. According to Nigeriastories, the governor’s gesture is aimed at honoring the ultimate sacrifice made by these brave individuals who have played a critical role in the fight against insurgency in the Northeast. The scholarships will cover the education of the deceased members’ children, ensuring they receive support for a brighter future despite their tragic loss. Governor Zulum’s action is being widely praised as a powerful message of gratitude, resilience, and state-backed solidarity with those on the frontlines of Nigeria’s security challenges. #GovernorZulum #CJTF #ScholarshipsForHeroes

🎖️ Honoring Heroes: Borno State Grants Scholarships to Families of Slain CJTF Members In a heartfelt gesture of appreciation, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has announced full educational scholarships for the children of eight Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) members who tragically lost their lives in an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attack along the Dikwa-Marte road.  During a condolence visit to the bereaved families in Fezzan ward, Governor Zulum described the fallen CJTF members as “martyrs who made ultimate sacrifices in defense of their communities.” He emphasized that their bravery would never be forgotten.  In addition to the scholarships, the governor announced an immediate assistance of ₦5 million to each family to cater to their basic needs. For those without children, support will be extended to other family members.  Governor Zulum was accompanied on the sympathy visit by key government officials, including the deputy speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Hon. Abdullahi Musa Askira; APC state chairman, Hon. Bello Ayuba; and Permanent Secretary, Government House, Barr. Mustapha Ali Busuguma.  This initiative underscores the Borno State government’s commitment to supporting those who have made significant sacrifices in the fight against insurgency. ⸻According to Naijanews #BornoState #GovernorZulum #CJTF #ScholarshipProgram #HonoringHeroes