Theinvestigator news

Category: Education

  • Fidelity Bank Partners With Ashoka To Empower Young Innovators

    Fidelity Bank Partners With Ashoka To Empower Young Innovators

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    As part of its commitment to youth empowerment and social impact, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc has partnered with Ashoka, a global network of social entrepreneurs, to provide financial support and mentorship to young innovators across Nigeria.

    Speaking at the 2025 Ashoka Young Changemakers Festival in Lagos, the Divisional Head, Product Development at Fidelity Bank, Osita Ede, reaffirmed the Bank’s dedication to youth empowerment, emphasizing its place as a pillar of the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy.

    “Empowerment is at the core of everything Fidelity Bank stands for,” Ede said. “Creativity and innovation are fundamental to our brand essence and that is why we are excited to support these young changemakers.

    Listening to their ideas today just validates the investments we have made to foster entrepreneurship and creativity.”

    Ede confirmed the bank’s willingness to continue funding and supporting the dreams of young people, adding that the bank plans to offer innovators access to its SME Hub’s resources and specialized master classes designed to nurture their growth.

    “We are not just funding initiatives; we are creating an enabling environment where these young innovators can thrive.

    “Our SME Hub will serve as a platform to guide and mentor these changemakers, helping them develop the right mindset and business acumen to succeed,” Ede stated.

    On her part, Josephine Nzerem, Regional Director, Ashoka Anglophone West Africa & Director, Venture and Talent, Ashoka Africa, expressed her appreciation for the partnership.

    “We are excited to move beyond being just Fidelity Bank’s clients to becoming true partners in the change making movement,” Nzerem stated. “Their continuous support which includes funding for awards and gift packs for young innovators, is vital for sustaining this journey.

    We celebrate not only the Changemakers but also the process of empowering young people to scale their impact and inspire others.”

    The Ashoka Young Changemakers Festival celebrates bold ideas, youth leadership, and innovation. The 2025 edition unveiled nine remarkable changemakers poised to transform Nigeria’s future.

    Together, Fidelity Bank and Ashoka are creating opportunities for young innovators to turn their ideas into solutions that can transform their communities and the world.

    It will be recalled that Fidelity bank is 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 a 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.

  • Fidelity Bank Supports Quality Education Delivery In Bauchi

    Fidelity Bank Supports Quality Education Delivery In Bauchi

    …Delivers Renovated Classrooms at Historic School.

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    As part of its commitment to enhancing access to quality education, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has renovated three blocks of classrooms at the historic Kobi Government School in Bauchi State.

    The project, executed under the Bank’s Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP), was made possible through voluntary contributions by staff of the bank’s Bauchi GRA Branch. Their contributions were then matched by the Bank’s Management for the execution of the project.

    Speaking during the handover event, the Regional Bank Head -North-East Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Musa Tarimbuka, represented by the relationship manager, Fidelity bank Bauchi GRA Branch, Ibrahim Aliyu, described the initiative as a testament to Fidelity Bank’s dedication to improving the lives of residents in its host communities.

    “This initiative underscores our belief that our success is deeply connected to the well-being of the communities we serve. The renovated classrooms are a testament to the power of collective impact and our ongoing efforts to improve access to quality education and youth empowerment,” He said.

    Receiving the renovated blocks on behalf of the Bauchi State Government, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Lawal Mohammed, expressed appreciation to Fidelity Bank for the generous intervention and encouraged other corporate organizations to follow suit.

    “This is a commendable contribution by Fidelity Bank, and we assure you that the facility will be put to optimal use. I encourage other organizations in Bauchi to follow suit in supporting the development of education and infrastructure across the state,” Dr. Mohammed stated.

    Fidelity Bank’s renovation of the Kobi Government School joins a long list of interventions executed by the bank in alignment with its CSR pillars of Quality Education and Youth Empowerment. It will be recalled that the bank recently awarded school fees support worth N512.8m to 884 Fidelity Personal Savings Scheme and 472 Fidelity SWEETA customers.

    It will be recalled that Fidelity bank is 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 a 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.

  • AITIE Set To Revolutionize Education With 7th International Conference On EdTech.

    AITIE Set To Revolutionize Education With 7th International Conference On EdTech.

    Emmanuel lkpeama .

    The Association for Innovative Technology Integration in Education (AITIE) is gearing up for its highly anticipated 7th International Conference and Workshop on Innovation, Technology, and Education in Lagos.

    This premier event will bring together educators, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to explore the latest trends and innovations in educational technology.

    According to the press release this highly anticipated event with the theme “EdTechpreneurship: Access, Equity, and Innovative Technologies for School Settings and Workplace”is scheduled to take place from 10th to 15th August 2025 at Paul Alabi Hall, Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka, Lagos State.

    The release went on to say that the theme will underscores AITIE’s commitment to fostering inclusive, equitable, and technology-driven educational practices as the conference will explore how innovative digital solutions can bridge learning gaps, promote access for all, and transform both schools and workplaces into hubs of creativity and productivity.

    Investigator news reports that AITIE has designed a fascinating lineup of sub-themes that cut across critical areas of educational technology. Discussions will center on affordable EdTech models, skills development, entrepreneurship in educational technology, public-private partnerships, and digital strategies to empower teachers and students.

    The conference will also address ethical considerations, intellectual property, and sustainable solutions to ensure long-lasting impact in the education sector.

    Investigator news gathered that the intellectual highlight of the conference will feature distinguished speakers such as Professor S. A. Adebisi, delivering the keynote address, alongside Professor Olugbenga Akindoju, Dr. Nokulunga Ndlovu, and Professor Keziah Achuonye, who will present powerful lead papers.

    Their collective wealth of knowledge is set to inspire innovative thinking and present transformative ideas that can elevate the educational landscape globally.

    In addition, prominent education and technology stakeholders from Lagos State are expected to enrich the conference. Hon. Olatubosun Alake, Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology; Hon. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, Lagos State Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education; Hon. Tolani Sule, Lagos State Commissioner for Tertiary Education; and Hon. Yisa Jubril Abiola, Executive Chairman of Iba Local Council Development Area (LCDA), are all anticipated to make meaningful contributions that will drive the success of this outstanding gathering.

    The conference will also host specialized workshops focusing on EdTech entrepreneurship, skill development, policy engagement, and scalable digital solutions. These sessions aim to provide practical strategies that participants can immediately implement to foster educational growth and innovation.

    With key deadlines approaching for abstract and full paper submissions, and with registration now open to all categories of participants, the 7th International Conference by AITIE is set to be a landmark event that will leave an indelible mark on the global educational technology space.

  • Young Nigerians To Get N2bn Private University Scholarships From Sterling Bank.

    Young Nigerians To Get N2bn Private University Scholarships From Sterling Bank.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Nigeria’s most forward-looking financial institution, Sterling Bank, has announced an over ₦2bn commitment for fully-funded private university scholarships for young
    Nigerians.

    Unveiled on Democracy Day, the initiative titled Beyond Education, represents a decisive step towards building the country’s future leaders by dismantling the barriers that keep millions of Nigerians from accessing quality, future-focused learning.

    This is one of the largest private sector investments ever made in a single Nigerian tertiary institution. It extends Sterling’s longstanding commitment to the HEART sectors: Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation.

    The bank has deployed over half a
    trillion naira in financing and development programs across these critical areas.

    “Progress is not a spectator sport,” said Abubakar Suleiman, Chief Executive of Sterling Bank. “While others talk about Nigeria’s potential, we are actively investing in it.

    These scholarships are direct investments in the architects of our future. We are funding the education of future leaders who will build the companies, systems, institutions and solutions Nigeria needs to thrive.”

    The Sterling Beyond Education program will fully sponsor 600 students to study high-impact fields such as Technology, Finance, Sales, and Public Health. It is open to young Nigerians from all 36 states and the FCT, with a merit-based and inclusive admissions process.

    Candidates can nominate themselves or be nominated by others, and final selection will be determined through a public voting process open exclusively to Sterling account holders.

    “This is what inclusive investment looks like,” said Obinna Ukachukwu, Growth Executive leading the Retail & Consumer Banking Directorate at Sterling Bank.

    “This initiative goes beyond access to education, it’s access to a future. Education remains the most valuable asset anyone can have, and we’re proud to stand behind young Nigerians as they claim it.”

    The pilot program is in partnership with Miva University, founded by renowned tech entrepreneur, Sim Shagaya. Fully accredited by the National Universities Commission, Miva is redefining higher education in Africa with scalable, affordable, and flexible programs tailored to the demands of the
    digital economy.

    The program also reflects Sterling’s advocacy for organisations to shift from short-term philanthropy to long-term ecosystem development.

    With deep investments in digitised healthcare, school financing, agricultural cooperatives, solar energy, and low-cost transport systems, Sterling is building pathways to inclusive prosperity.

    “We’re moving beyond charity,” Suleiman said. “This is about building systems that last and it is much bigger than hundreds of scholarships. It’s about the future those brilliant young minds will build for our country.”

    Nominations are now open at www.sterling.ng/FUTURE. As Africa’s youth population continues to grow, initiatives like Beyond Education may point to a new blueprint for private sector leadership,one where impact is measured not just in profit, but in people empowered.

    Sterling Bank is a leading Nigerian commercial bank and one of Africa’s most progressive financial institutions,
    widely recognised for its bold approach to customer advocacy and ethical banking.

    From eliminating local transfer fees through its OneBank platform to championing inclusive access to capital, the bank has consistently led with impact.

    Renowned for its HEART of Sterling strategy, which focuses major investments into the Healthcare, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation sectors of the Nigerian economy, Sterling continues to build innovative solutions that go beyond banking to enable dignity, mobility, and opportunity for millions of Nigerians. Explore Sterling Bank offerings at sterling.ng.

  • Fidelity Bank Boosts Learning With Donations To Govt Sec.School PortHarcourt

    Fidelity Bank Boosts Learning With Donations To Govt Sec.School PortHarcourt

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    In furtherance of its long-standing commitment to education and youth development, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has donated a wide range of relief and academic materials to Government Junior Secondary School, Elekahia, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

    The donation was made possible by the unwavering dedication and generosity of a class of newly inducted staff, known as the Suncrest Inductee Class, under the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP).

    Through the FHHP, staff across Fidelity Bank’s business locations identify projects that impact their immediate community and raise funds to execute them. The bank’s management thereafter matches this contribution with an equal amount and disburses it for the selected project.

    Speaking about the donation event, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, noted the bank’s dedication to fostering community development and supporting children from underprivileged backgrounds.

    “We deliberately chose a public school because we understand the challenges many students face. Our aim is to provide support that not only aids academic performance but also inspires hope for a brighter future,” said Dr Nwagboh.

    He highlighted that the Bank’s initiative for school and students has spanned 15 years with numerous schools as beneficiaries nationwide. “At Fidelity Bank, we believe that investing in the next generation is a direct investment in the future of our country. This initiative is deeply rooted in our philosophy of grooming responsible future leaders and promoting social equity, with our members of staff being able to significantly contribute right from their early days in the bank” he affirmed.

    In her remarks, the Principal, Government Junior Secondary School, Elekahia, Dr. Ekeh Florence, expressed heartfelt appreciation to Fidelity Bank for its generous gesture.

    “We are sincerely grateful that Fidelity Bank remembered the students of our school. The materials they provided – which includes exercise books, biros, socks, footwear, sanitary items such as pads and shaving sticks, and even snacks – will go a long way in boosting the morale and academic readiness of our students,” Dr. Ekeh stated.

    The students expressed their joy and appreciation, describing the donation as the first of its kind from any corporate organization. Many pledged to make the best use of the materials to improve their academic performance and personal development.

    It will be recalled that fidelity bank is 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.

  • Inclusive Education In Action, Union Bank Sponsors Mathematics Competition For Hearing Impaired Students.

    Inclusive Education In Action, Union Bank Sponsors Mathematics Competition For Hearing Impaired Students.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Union Bank of Nigeria, through UnionCares, an arm of its Corporate, Sustainability and Innovation Initiative, recently sponsored the Ajofa Special Education Foundation for the Deaf Mathematics Competition held at the Wesley School for the Hearing Impaired at Surulere Lagos, Nigeria, with the theme “Impacting Deaf Students and Life with Mathematics in Nigeria.”

    The Mathematics Competition had in attendance representatives from Union Bank, the Lagos State Education Board, Principals of Schools, and teachers. Ten competitors, drawn from different schools within and outside the deaf community in Lagos, participated in the programme.

    The competition, a collaboration between Union Bank and the Ajofa Foundation, aimed to close the gap in inclusive education by creating opportunities for learners with hearing impairments to showcase their academic abilities and intellectual potential.

     

    Read Also:Fidelity Set To Hold 3rd Edition of FITCC In Atlanta, USA September 2025.

     

    Speaking about the event, Olufunmilola Aluko, the Chief Brand and Marketing Officer at Union Bank of Nigeria, said,
    “At Union Bank, we believe that development must be inclusive. That’s why, through our UnionCares initiative, we continue to invest in meaningful partnerships and platforms like this.

    We also commend the brilliant students on display today, who have demonstrated that their circumstances do not define them. Rather, they are writing a new story that says disability is not inability.

    They are mathematicians, thinkers, and problem-solvers whose wisdom whispers and reshapes the world positively”.

    Francis Ajomiwe, the Founder and Executive Director for the Ajofa Special Education Foundation for the Deaf, who communicated through an interpreter, expressed appreciation to Union Bank.

    He said, “I’m grateful to Union Bank for their Sponsorship of this competition, helping bring our dreams to life. Through the Foundation, we are contributing our share to the overall goals of enhancing the educational experience and developing the deaf community.

    This we have been committed to upholding through organising education programmes and projects that benefit the deaf community”.

    The Lagos State Education Authority, from its School Support Section, was represented by Bukunola Famakinwa, who, during her speech, emphasised the importance of the initiative on deaf learners and their community, stating that, “Deaf learners face unique challenges in accessing quality education, and mathematics is no exception.

    However, they can excel in mathematics and beyond with the right approach and support.” She emphasised the importance of mathematics as it empowers learners to “make informed decisions, solve problems, and participate fully in society.”

    She urged the community to collaborate with the deaf community to create an inclusive education system that supports deaf learners in Nigeria.

    The top three winners of the competition were Samuel Megbodofo, Tomilola Shonubi, and Opeoluwa Saka, who finished in first, second, and third place, respectively.

    The winners, who came from different schools for the hearing impaired competition, received branded gifts from the Bank, among other prizes.

    The rest of the competitors, learners and teachers were also not left out as they, too, were gifted branded items from Union Bank.

    Union Bank of Nigeria was established in 1917 and listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 1971, Union Bank of Nigeria is a household name and one of Nigeria’s long-standing and most respected financial institutions.

    The Bank is a trusted and recognisable brand with an extensive network of over 300 branches across Nigeria. The Bank offers various banking services to individual and corporate clients, including current, savings, and deposit account services, funds transfer, foreign currency domiciliation, loans, overdrafts, equipment leasing, and trade finance. The Bank also offers customers convenient

  • Children’s Day: Smiles As Iyewa Isale-Odo CDA Celebrates Children’s Day In Style.

    Children’s Day: Smiles As Iyewa Isale-Odo CDA Celebrates Children’s Day In Style.

     ……….Distributes Writing Materials, Stationaries to children 

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    In commemoration of this year’s Children’s Day celebration,the Iyewa Isale-Odo Community Development Area (CDA) on Tuesday 27,May 2025,embarked on a community outreach program,distributed books,food and drinks to the children in the community and beyond as they were treated to a memorable funfair.

    The occasion hosted by the CDA executives,led by Hon.Aremo Olanipekun Aderemi was used to spread love, hope and inspire the less privileged children to look beyond their circumstances whilst pursuing their dreams filled with excitement as the kids immersed themselves in various thrilling activities, from games to lively music,dance,moral talks, light educational contests, and other recreational where hundreds of children received writing materials.,with lots of refreshments.

    In his welcome address,Hon Aremo Olanipekun Aderemi stated that the initiative which is an annual event is organized to foster love and unity among children in the community.

    “It’s a pleasure to witness yet another Children’s Day celebration. This day is one of our favourite days of the year because it allows us to honour and cherish the young minds in our community.

    “Our children are our future, and it is our responsibility to ensure that they have everything they need to thrive and succeed.The CDA is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for all of our young residents.

    “The Iyewa Isale-Odo Community is proud of the incredible children in our community who continuously inspire us with their creativity, curiosity, and kindness. They are the heart and soul of our city, and we must do everything we can to protect and uplift them.”he stated

    He added that the event was made possible through personal donations from executive members, as well as support from well-meaning individuals in the community. He promised that next year’s edition, God sparing our lives, would be even better.

    Investigator news reports that most of the guest who witnessed the event applauded the CDA for recognizing and celebrating the children with writing materials, while calling on other CDA’s within Isolo LCDA to follow the path of Iyewa Isale Odo community.

    Members of the CDA with some of the children at the occasion.

     

    Speaking with newsmen, the CDA Chairman noted that Iyewa Isale Odo community is one of the best out of the 72 CDA’s in Isolo LCDA as they have reconstructed some drainages within the community and in the next few weeks will have a solar light powered by CDA executives.

     

    He advised the children to concentrate on their education and their future, while appealing to individuals to have the mind to  help and support humanity, especially the downtrodden children within their locality.

  • Fidelity Bank Celebrates Children’s Day with Launch of Read2Lead Anthology and Scholarship Awards.

    Fidelity Bank Celebrates Children’s Day with Launch of Read2Lead Anthology and Scholarship Awards.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    In a vibrant celebration of this year’s Children’s Day, leading financial institution Fidelity Bank Plc unveiled its Read2Lead Anthology—an inspiring collection of essays written by young Nigerians as part of the bank’s flagship literacy initiative.

    Held at the Fidelity Grounds in Oniru, Lagos, the event was themed “The Fidelity Fantasyland 3.0” and drew hundreds of students, parents, and educators.

    The day was packed with fun-filled activities—from dancing competitions and face painting to arcade games and singing contests—creating lasting memories for the children in attendance.

    A major highlight of the celebration was the official launch of the Read2Lead Anthology, which features superhero-themed essays written by 30 outstanding finalists from across the country.

    The stories, centered on the theme “Naija Superheroes”, showcase the imagination, intellect, and storytelling talent of Nigerian youth.

    Addressing the audience, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, applauded the efforts of the more than 3,000 students who participated in the maiden edition of the Read2Lead competition.

    “Today is more than just the conclusion of a competition,” she said. “It is a celebration of vision, hard work, and potential. Through Read2Lead, we provided books, writing tools, and opportunities for creative expression to thousands of young Nigerians—helping them to read more deeply, write more clearly, and think more creatively.

    This initiative reflects our belief that education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives and shaping the future.”

    She described the anthology as “a powerful testament to the promise of Nigeria’s next generation.”

    Fourth from left: Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe flanked by finalists of the Fidelity Read2Lead Competition at the launch of the 2024 Read2Lead Anthology at the Fidelity Fantasyland celebration in commemoration of the 2025 Children’s Day at the Fidelity Grounds, Oniru, Lagos recently.

    “As you turn the pages of this collection,” Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe continued, “I invite you to see these stories not just as words, but as seeds—seeds of wisdom, leadership, character, and a brighter tomorrow.”

    In further celebration of excellence, Fidelity Bank awarded scholarships worth ₦150,000 each to four outstanding pupils—Thiago Chukwudubem Agada, Nabeela Nia Rufai, Victory Alize Chukwuebuka, and Osinachi Olivia Onyeaghala—selected through the Fidelity Savings Loyalty Scheme (FSLS). These awards underscore the bank’s continued commitment to supporting education and rewarding academic dedication.

    With laughter, learning, and literary celebration, the Fidelity Fantasyland 3.0 event brought joy and purpose together—leaving children inspired, parents proud, and everyone reminded that investing in the minds of our youth is the surest path to a better future.

    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.

  • Oke-Afa Senior College,Other Schools  Across Nigeria Writes WAEC In Darkness,Amid Blackout

    Oke-Afa Senior College,Other Schools  Across Nigeria Writes WAEC In Darkness,Amid Blackout

    ……..As WAEC gives reasons for the delay.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Secondary school students sitting for the 2025 West African Secondary Schools Certificate Examination (WASSCE) sat for their English paper in the dark amid blackout and insecurity.

    Investigator news reports that as of 10:00 pm on Wednesday night,students of Oke-Afa Senior College in Ejigbo, Lagos, were still writing their English Language examination which is part of the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

    According to visuals and reports obtained by Clear TV, the late-night examination session sparked concern among parents and guardians, many of whom were seen waiting restlessly at the school gate for their children and wards to finish.

    Further findings reveal that the situation is not peculiar to Oke-Afa Senior College alone, as similar delays were reported in other examination centers across Nigeria, raising concerns about the coordination and timing of the national exam.

    Investigator news learnt that the exam which was scheduled to start 9:00am and end by 4pm saw the students starting the exam at exactly 10.00pm and were expected to end by 12am while candidates in other centers sat for theirs around between 4 pm and 7 pm.

    Unconfirmed reports suggest that the exam started late in some schools due to alleged question leaks, but these claims have yet to be verified.

    “This is alarming. We don’t even know why the exam is taking this long. Our children’s safety is at stake,” said a worried parent outside the school premises.

    Investigator news gathered that parents and Journalist were not allowed to enter into the school compound except the WAEC officials, school principal and just one Security personnel are with the students,as students  were kept under a tent outside the classrooms but the tent is lighted with a power generator.

    In another development,the West African Examinations Council, WAEC, has provided an official explanation following public outcry over students writing their English Language WASSCE paper late into the night on Wednesday in parts of Nigeria.

    ​However, in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Moyosola Adeshina, WAEC said the delay was the result of deliberate security and logistical measures aimed at preventing the leakage of examination materials and safeguarding the credibility of the test.

    While noting that the council ultimately achieved its objective of preserving the exam’s integrity, the body acknowledged that certain challenges affected the smooth and timely delivery of materials.

    “The West African Examinations Council appreciates the understanding and support of all stakeholders during this period.

    “We remain committed to upholding the highest standard in the conduct of examinations and shall continue to promote academic excellence,” the statement read.

     

    “We recognise the importance of timely conduct of examinations and the impact of this decision on the candidates, their schools and parents, and we sincerely apologise for any inconveniences caused,” the council added.

     

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  • Kenyan Author Ngugi Wa Thiong’o Has Died.

    Kenyan Author Ngugi Wa Thiong’o Has Died.

    Tunde Omoniyi 

    Kenyan author Ngugi wa Thiong’o, considered one of east Africa’s greatest literary figures, died on Wednesday, his daughter announced on Facebook. He was 87.

    “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our dad, Ngugi wa Thiong’o this Wednesday morning,” wrote Wanjiku Wa Ngugi.

    “He lived a full life, fought a good fight,” she added.

    Messages of support and respect quickly poured in for the celebrated author, whose decision to stop writing in English and start using only his native Kikuyu made him a powerful symbol of post-colonial African identity.

    “My condolences to the family and friends professor Ngugi wa Thiongo, a renowned literary giant and scholar, a son of the soil and great patriot whose footprints are indelible,” wrote Martha Karua, an opposition leader in Kenya, on X.

    Investigator news reports that in 1977, Ngugi was jailed without charge after the staging of their play “Ngaahika Ndeenda” (“I Will Marry When I Want”), which was considered a harsh critique of post-colonial Kenyan society.

    Amnesty International named him a prisoner of conscience, before a global campaign secured his release from Kamiti Maximum Security Prison in December 1978.

    “Thank you Mwalimu (teacher) for your freedom writing,” wrote Amnesty International’s Kenya branch on X on Wednesday.

    “Having already earned his place in Kenyan history, he transitions from mortality to immortality,” it said.

    Ngugi went into self-imposed exile in 1982 after a ban on theatre groups in Kenya, moving first to Britain then to the United States.

    In 1986, he published one of his best-known works, “Decolonising the Mind”, a collection of essays about the role of language in forging national culture, history and identity.