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  • Microfinance Banks: Unlocking Nigeria’s Economic Potential through SME Growth,Says Experts.

    Microfinance Banks: Unlocking Nigeria’s Economic Potential through SME Growth,Says Experts.

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    The Institute of Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Management and Administration (IEAMA) recently organized the inaugural Finance Meet Entrepreneur 2025 forum,as stakeholders in Nigeria’s entrepreneurial and financial sectors emphasized the vital role of microfinance banks in unlocking the nation’s small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) potential.

    In an event on Thursday 9, October 2025,organized by the Institute of Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Management and Administration (IEAMA)highlighted the crucial role of microfinance banks in driving small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) growth in Nigeria.

    Experts emphasized the need for stronger linkages between financiers and entrepreneurs to promote innovation, job creation, and sustainable development.

    The event, themed “Microfinance Banks as Catalysts for SMME Growth in Nigeria’s Economy,”brought together policymakers, entrepreneurs, and financial institutions to explore new pathways for SME financing and apprenticeship development.

    The Acting Provost of Lagos State Cooperative College Lagos State, Dr. Adebosin Gbadebo,who is one the speakers at the event described microfinance banks as the backbone of Nigeria’s informal economy, which accounts for nearly 96% of all businesses and contributes about 40% to the country’s GDP.

    Acting Provost of Lagos State Cooperative College Dr Gbadebo Walid delivering his keynote speech at the event

     

    He emphasized the need for strengthening capacity building, ensuring affordable credit, and expanding financial literacy to sustain the impact of microfinance on job creation and poverty reduction.

    “Without finance,no business can thrive,Microfinance banks exist to bridge the gap between excluded entrepreneurs and the capital they need to grow.

    “They offer micro loans, savings, and advisory services to millions of Nigerians who would otherwise be left out of the financial system.”he said

    Gbadebo noted that more than 800 licensed microfinance banks currently operate across the country,promotes financial inclusion and enterprise growth despite challenges of capitalisation and regulatory compliance.

    The Acting Provost appealed to stakeholders to focus on strengthening capacity building, ensuring affordable credit, and expanding financial literacy to sustain the impact of microfinance on job creation and poverty reduction.

     

    Mrs Adeogun Mojisola Abigail, Chief Operating Officer of Prospera Finance Limited.

     

    She emphasized that microfinance banks provide financial inclusion, access to credit facilities, and capacity building for entrepreneurs.

    Mrs Adeogun went further to note that microfinance banks have been instrumental in promoting financial inclusion, particularly in rural and underserved areas, stating that with over 800 microfinance banks in Nigeria, entrepreneurs can access loans and other financial services to grow their businesses.

    The speaker also emphasized the importance of having a good credit score, stating that it enables entrepreneurs to access credit facilities from banks and other financial institutions.

    Additionally, Adeogun advised entrepreneurs to be cautious when accessing loans and to ensure they do not default on payments, as this can negatively impact their credit score and ability to access future loans.

    In his welcome address,the Registrar,Institute of Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Management and Administration (IEAMA) Dr. Jerry Ibeh, stated that the “Finance Meet Entrepreneur 2025” initiative was designed as a bridge between financiers and entrepreneurs, providing access to funding, mentorship, and technical guidance for emerging business owners.

    Registrar of IEAMA,Dr Ibeh

     

    He noted that the Institute which was founded in May 2025 was to professionalise entrepreneurship and apprenticeship by formalising Nigeria’s indigenous “Igba boy”model of enterprise mentoring, noting that the institute stands as a gap between entrepreneurs in making millions and driving the wave of economic transformation in Nigeria.

    “At IEAMA, we believe entrepreneurship and apprenticeship are not just pathways to prosperity but the lifeblood of our nation’s future,”

    “Microfinance banks are the spark that ignites this engine of progress — empowering small and micro businesses, reducing poverty, and building resilient communities.”

    Ibeh explained that IEAMA’s membership system offers a structured pathway for entrepreneurs, from student to associate, full, senior, and fellow membership, ensuring continuous learning and accountability.

    He disclosed that the institute had also secured partnerships with financial institutions and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to promote youth entrepreneurship through the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.

    Miss AmforGod Olisa,Secretary of IEAMA, said the Finance Meet Entrepreneur initiative would become an annual platform for entrepreneurs, financiers, and policymakers to share ideas and forge partnerships.

    “This programme serves as a bridge between finance and enterprise — a marketplace of ideas and collaboration,”

    “It is part of a broader vision to elevate entrepreneurship to a respected, professional, and sustainable career path.”she stated

    Speaking with newsmen,Mr Umesegha Joshua Obinna,MD/CEO of Prospera Finance Limited opined that microfinance banks have been instrumental in promoting SME growth and development in Nigeria,by providing access to finance and capacity building, microfinance banks help entrepreneurs overcome challenges and achieve their business goals.

    Umesegha emphasize that microfinance banks will continue to play a critical role in driving economic growth and development in Nigeria.

    “With the right support and regulations, microfinance banks can increase their reach and impact, particularly in rural and underserved areas.”

    He applauded the institute for making individuals to have an indepth knowledge of how they can finance and boost their business.

    Lending his voice,Hon Dr Edwin Nwabaku urge youths to shun drugs and other social vices rather they should involve in a skill that would help them to unlock unprecedented opportunities for millions.

    ” Rather than blaming the government, the youths should engage themselves into entrepreneurship. Thank God IEAMA is creating a platform how you can get a soft loan to set and build your business ” he said

    The forum concluded with a call for greater synergy between government, financial institutions, and professional bodies to scale entrepreneurship as a driver of Nigeria’s economic transformation.

    Highlight of the event was the induction of some individuals as doctorate associate, full, senior, and fellow membership of the the Institute of Entrepreneurship and Apprenticeship Management and Administration (IEAMA)

    Those inducted are;

    Doctorate Fellow:

    Hon Dr Edwin Nwabaku

    Mrs Adeogun Mojisola Abigail

    Mr Umesegha Joshua Obinna

    Fellow:

    Adebosin Gbadebo Walid

    Joseph Igberi Atose

    Engr Chijioke Collins

    Balogun Sakiru Abiodu

    Onyekachi Charles Chinedum

    Senior Membership:

    Allen Abieyuwa Nneoma

    AmforGod Olisa

    Ifediba Onyinyechi Judith

    Comrade Emmanuel Clement

    Associate Members:

    Hamzat Omolade

    Wilson Chimezie

    Michael Offiong

    Akinfenwa Opeyemi

    Adedipe Precious

    Adebowale Daniel

    Ugbobuaku Isioma

     

     

     

     

     

  • Union Bank Strengthens Media Ties At Informal Mixer Event.

    Union Bank Strengthens Media Ties At Informal Mixer Event.

    Emmanuel lkpeama.

     Union Bank of Nigeria recently hosted an informal and engaging meet-and-greet session with leading media professionals at The Stallion Plaza, its headquarters in Marina, Lagos.

    The event, held at SpaceNXT, the Bank’s purpose-designed co-creation hub for innovators and creators, was conceived as a relaxed platform to foster personal connections and deepen mutual understanding between the Bank and media partners.

    Rather than a formal media briefing, the gathering offered a convivial atmosphere for open conversation, reinforcing Union Bank’s recognition of the media’s essential role in shaping public discourse and amplifying the Bank’s mission.

    In attendance were senior members of Union Bank’s leadership team, including Taiwo Shote, Executive Director, Corporate Banking, Lagos and West, Olufunmilola Aluko, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, and Tosin Ibikunle, Head of Strategy and Planning.

    Olufunmilola and Tosin reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to transparent and collaborative engagement with the press, while underscoring Union Bank’s strong operational footing and readiness to meet all regulatory obligations.

    Speaking at the event, Mrs Olufunmilola Aluko, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, said:“This event is simply about people. Union Bank has been around for 108 years, and we’ve seen it all – from telegram banking to digital wallets; from handwritten ledgers to AI-driven analytics. But through all that change, one constant has remained: the media.

    We wanted to create a space that is unhurried and human, where we can meet without the weight of deadlines or the formality of press statements, because behind those exchanges are real people who share a deep commitment to storytelling, to truth, and to impact.

    So today, we wanted this session to simply be about reconnecting; banker to journalist, human to human.”

    Echoing this spirit of partnership as the Bank looks ahead, Mr Tosin Ibikunle, Head of Strategy and Planning, added:
    “Union Bank has diligently enhanced its systems and service experience in preparation for the next phase of growth.

    As we roll out new initiatives, we look forward to partnering with the media to tell our story with clarity, accuracy, and impact.”

    The event also featured a tour of Stallion Plaza and a networking session, reflecting the Bank’s intention to create a warm, human connection beyond the usual formalities of corporate communication.

    Union Bank remains steadfast in its commitment to building trust through open dialogue and meaningful partnerships with the media and all stakeholders, as it continues to serve customers and contribute positively to Nigeria’s economic landscape.

  • Again,Chief Ubah Emmanuel Empowers Widows In 20 LGA Lagos.

    Again,Chief Ubah Emmanuel Empowers Widows In 20 LGA Lagos.

    Emmanuel lkpeama.

    A Philanthropist, Chief Emmanuel Ubah (Otunba Ojoto), Chairman of Ohaneze Ndigbo Lagos,Otta Awori Chapter has once again put smiles on the faces of widows across Lagos State through his Chief Emmanuel Ubah foundation.

    The program which impacted Widows across 20 local government of the state,was held on Wednesday 8, October 2025,at the Secretariat of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Surulere Lagos.

    The event which coincide with the general meeting of Ohaneze Ndigbo Lagos State was attended by Chairmen of the 57 local government, women leaders and youth leaders including the President General Ohaneze Ndigbo Lagos State,High Chief Solomon Aguene and Eze Ndigbo of Ibeju Lekki LCDA,Eze Ambassador Peter Asonye.

    Investigator news reports that each of the beneficiaries received financial assistance so as to assist them in their businesses.

    One of the beneficiaries who spoke with investigator news,Mrs Faith Okonkwo expressed gratitude to God almighty for opportunity to receive the money, while thanking Chief Ubah for the support, praying that God will continually increase him in all his endeavors.

    Another beneficiary from Otta Awori Chapter,Mrs Gold Chioma Benson was full of joy stating that the said amount will go a long way as she will use it to put into her business.

    In his remark, Chief Emmanuel Ubah who is vying for the office of the President General Ohaneze Ndigbo Lagos come next year expressed joy in being able to positively impact lives and urged those who are wealthy to always support those around them for betterment of the society.

    ” I give God glory for granting me the grace to help the needy and widows in the society. It gives me pleasure to see widows being assisted. I know that God is using me in my own little way to assist them ”

    ” This has always been part of me,as I have a covenant with God almighty that if he blesses me,I will always assist the needy and widows every month,which I have never failed in my capacity,God has been helping me to achieve this “he stated.

    Highlight of the event was presentation of cash award to Widows,prayers were offered by the women to Chief Emmanuel Ubah.

    It will be recalled that Chief Ubah has impacted so many lives, assisted the less privileged,empower women in various skills and offers scholarship to so many indigent children in Otta Awori and beyond.

  • LASTMA Nabs Impostor Extorting Motorists In Lagos.

    LASTMA Nabs Impostor Extorting Motorists In Lagos.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has apprehended a 47-year-old man, Mr. Adetayo Adewodun, for impersonating a LASTMA officer and extorting ₦7,800 from a motorist at Itire Junction, Lagos.

    The suspect allegedly accosted the motorist, demanding ₦80,000 for an alleged traffic violation.

    Investigator news reports that the suspect, Mr. Adewodun, accosted one Mr. Ayano Stephen, driver of a white Hilux vehicle (GME 259 TE) belonging to a construction firm, for allegedly making an unlawful turn at the aforementioned junction.

    Posing as an operative of LASTMA, the impostor deceitfully demanded the sum of ₦80,000 as a supposed penalty for the traffic violation.

    Unable to meet the outrageous demand, Mr. Stephen pleaded and eventually parted with the only cash in his possession a sum of ₦7,800 which he handed over to the fake officer.

    However, shortly after the transaction, the motorist became suspicious of the suspect’s demeanor and promptly contacted the Agency through its toll-free hotline (0800-00-LASTMA / 0800-005-27862) to verify the authenticity of the alleged officer.

    Acting upon the distress report, LASTMA’s Surveillance and Intelligence Unit, under the directive of the General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, swiftly mobilized to the location.

    On sighting the approaching enforcement team, the suspect attempted to flee but was hotly pursued, apprehended within minutes, and immediately conveyed to the LASTMA Headquarters at Oshodi for interrogation.

    Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect is part of a three-man syndicate that routinely parades themselves as LASTMA personnel, extorting unsuspecting motorists.

    The gang reportedly operates across several road intersections, making an average of ₦65,000 daily through such nefarious activities.

    LASTMA’s General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, commended the motorist’s vigilance and prompt report, describing it as a demonstration of civic responsibility.

    He reaffirmed the Agency’s zero-tolerance policy towards impersonation and fraudulent practices, emphasizing that authentic LASTMA officers can be identified by their official uniforms, personalized name tags, and unique service identification numbers.

    Bakare-Oki appealed to Lagosians particularly motorists to remain vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious enforcement activity or impersonation attempts through the Agency’s verified communication channels, especially its toll-free emergency number (080000527862), assuring that such reports will receive immediate and decisive action.

    “I can assure the public that the suspect will be arraigned before a Mobile Court to serve as a deterrent to other unscrupulous elements who habitually disguise as LASTMA officials to extort innocent members of the public.”

    The General Manager further reaffirmed that LASTMA remains resolute in its mandate to entrench order, discipline, and sanity on Lagos roads, while safeguarding law-abiding motorists from fraudulent exploitation.

    Investigator news gathered that the suspect will be arraigned before a Mobile Court to serve as a deterrent to other unscrupulous elements who habitually disguise themselves as LASTMA officials to extort innocent members of the public.

  • Professor Yakubu Hands Over To Agbamuche As Acting Chairman

    Professor Yakubu Hands Over To Agbamuche As Acting Chairman

    Felicia Asuquo, Abuja 

    Professor Mahmood Yakubu has handed over to May Agbamuche as the Acting National Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    Investigator news reports that Agbamuche is the oldest serving National Commissioner in the electoral body.

    Professor Yakubu announced this on Tuesday 7, October 2025 at the ongoing meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners at the INEC headquarters in Abuja.

    He solicited the support of the commissioners and directors of the commission for Agbamuche, until the appointment of a substantive chairman.

    Professor Mahmood Yakubu is leaving office as INEC chairman, having completed his two-term tenure of 1 years.

    President Tinubu is expected to appoint his successor soon, subject to a Senate confirmation.

    Yakubu was first appointed the INEC chairman by former President Muhammadu Buhari to oversee the activities of the electoral umpire in November 2015, six months after he assumed the office as the President.

    He completed his first term in office as the electoral body’s chairman in 2020, and was reappointed for a second tenure by President Buhari.

    Yakubu’s reappointment by President Buhari made him the first person to serve as INEC chairman for two terms.

    He took over from Professor Attahiru Jega, with INEC conducting many elections, including the 2019 and 2023 general elections.

  • Cultural Splendour At Igbo New Yam Festival,As Eze Ambassador Njubigbo Celebrates New Yam Festival In Style.

    Cultural Splendour At Igbo New Yam Festival,As Eze Ambassador Njubigbo Celebrates New Yam Festival In Style.

    ­Emmanuel lkpeama

    It was a day of joy, celebration and thanksgiving to God for bountiful harvest  on Saturday 4, October 2025 during the new yam festival,otherwise known as Iwa ji,organized by Eze Ndigbo of Mainland,HRH Eze Ambassador (Sir) Godwin Chukwubuna Njubigbo JP so as to usher in the new season.

    The Igbo new yam festival which is an annual occasion of offering and celebrating immense thanks to God almighty for making the farm yields possible as well as offering for even a better harvest in the subsequent planting season, witnessed a large numbers of the Igbo speaking community,yoruba and Hausa community as well as the China community.

    The Kudirat Abiola play ground (Evans Square)Ebutte Metta Lagos,venue of the event, was literally shut as huge crowd made their way to the venue  to behold a cultural spectacle and catch some fun usually experienced once in a year.

    Investigator news reports that the event was simply a display of glamour and celebration of Igbo rich cultural heritage.The peaceful ambience that surrounded his royal palace,the harmless presence of security personnel who mounted surveillance at the junction and the joy on the faces of Ndigbo and non indigenes living in Mainland served as a pointer that Eze Godwin Njubigbo is a man of peace,loved and mostly revered not just by Ndigbo but the yoruba and hausa community

    There was heavy drumming, singing, trumpeting and breathtaking dance steps by cultural dancers who thrilled guests who had seated before the arrival of the dignitaries.The weather was clement as the sun shone brightly out of the azure sky.

    The event started with prayers at the palace of Eze Njubigbo (Ezedioranma)for peace and progress of the nation and continuous peaceful coexistence of Ndigbo in Lagos State, thereafter a procession to the venue followed where Eze Njubigbo was accompanied by other Eze Ndigbo from other part of the state.

    In his welcome address,Eze Ambassador Sir Godwin Chukwubuna Njubigbo said the Igbo new yam festival is a cherished culture of ndi Igbo, stating that our relationship with God which our forefathers has already established should not be discarded because of modernism.

    He, however, urged the youths at all times protect, project, and promote the origin of the Igbo man and their traditions, while calling them to shun drugs and other social vices.

    The monarch commended members of his royal cabinet,members of the Igbo speaking community, Ohaneze Ndigbo,men, youths and women for turning out in large number to attend the 2025 new yam festival.

    Speaking with newsmen, Ezedioranma after performing the usual ritual of cutting the new yam, he expressed gratitude to God for making a bountiful harvest after the planting season. He also prayed God to aid the Igbos to sustain their rich cultural heritage and values.

    Ezedioranma noted that the new yam festival or Iri ji is one of the significant cultural events in Igbo land. He added that the event provides the Igbo  man the opportunity to thank God for bumper harvest in yam and other farm varieties.

    The United Nation Peace Ambassador used the occasion to urge his subjects to promote harmony and peaceful coexistence, emphasizing that unity is essential for progress and development.

    He said,” Peace is my hobby,I have lived in the community for over 40years and I can tell you for free that the Igbos and non Ndigbo have relatively live in peace, therefore I want to urge my people to always live in peace with their host community so that more development and progress can come to them.”

    He called on Nigerians to always pray for the leaders, stating that Nigeria would get better .”As we gather to celebrate today, peace and celebration of good things will be the portion of Ndigbo in particular and Nigerians in general.”he submitted.

    Lending her voice, Ugoeze Ambassador Ngozi Njubigbo JP called on Igbos to embrace peace as it promotes peace and harmony which Igbos are know for.

    She also called on parents to always teach their children the Igbo culture and traditioons so that they won’t forget their roots.

    The Onowu of Mainland,High Chief Edwin Nwosu,Chidalu Igbo stated that new yam showcases the heritage of Igbo-speaking community, noting that the new yam festival has brought different Igbo groups together to unite because according to him,Eze Njubigbo is a man of peace.

    One of the special guest at the occasion,High Chief Royal Ifechukwu Asonya describe the new yam as one of the most precious crop Ndigbo adorns and respect.

    He went out to point out that new yam is a symbol of unity that unifies every Igbo man, noting that in Igbo land no man would eat the new yam except they thank God almighty for making them to be alive so as to witness the new yam festival after planting

    High Chief Royal called on Ndigbo to unite and speak with one voice so that progress will continue to follow Ndigbo living in Lagos, while praying for Eze Njubigbo for long life, wisdom and understanding ,he eulogise the Eze Njubigbo for showing exemplary leadership, charming and endearing personality, and also elevating the culture and traditions of Ndigbo living in Lagos State.

    Speaking with investigator news,an Erudite Professor , Professor Friday Nwankwo said that culture is what makes people to be known in the society.He enjoined every Nigerian to embrace unity for peace and harmony to reign in our country.

    Chief Stella Ntanta,Ezinne na Lagos Mainland  enjoined parents to teach their children the culture, traditions of their forefathers so that Igbo language won’t go into instinction as predicted  in 2030.

    Chief Ubah Emmanuel, (Otunba Ojoto), chairman Ohaneze Ndigbo Lagos State noted that the Igbo exhibit the spirit of oneness and unity which Nigeria needs by making anywhere they find themselves their homes and contribute immensely to the socio-economic and political development of their host communities.

    He enjoined every Nigerian to embrace unity for peace and harmony to reign in our country.

    Investigator news gathered that Eze Ambassador Sir Godwin Chukwubuna Njubigbo is an epitome of peace as he always radiates with an extraordinary brilliance, swag of royalty; embodying leadership virtues that inspire his subjects

    Eze Njubigbo  prayed for development, progress,peace and unity in Mainland and Lagos in general,broke the kola nut, cut the new yam and shared it to the people present

    He said that that the new yam festival is a time to appreciate God for his blessings and for bountiful harvest.

    The festivities were marked by vibrant cultural displays, including traditional dances and music, showcasing the rich heritage of the people.

    The monarch’s palace was filled with merriment and joy as guests and well-wishers gathered to pay homage to the royal father.

    Eze Njubigbo’s leadership and commitment to peace have earned him respect and admiration from the people.

    As the celebration comes to a close, the monarch’s message of peace and unity is expected to resonate with his people, inspiring them to strive for a more harmonious and prosperous community.

    The New Yam Festival serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural values and traditions in promoting peace and stability. Eze Njubigbo’s leadership is a beacon of hope for his people, and his commitment to their well-being is unwavering.

    The epoch making event attracted dignitaries from and across Lagos State; Chinese community,men, women youths, including His Royal Highness ,Eze Ambassador C.C Nwokedi(Chairman Council of Ndieze) Ambassador Solomon Aguene (PG Ohaneze Ndigbo Lagos)Eze Umeh Peter (Eze Ndigbo of Mushin)Eze Dr Okey Another(Eze Ndigbo of Igbogbo/Bayeku LCDA, Ikorodu)Eze Uchenna Dike(Eze Ndigbo of Oriade),Eze Sunday Ojukwu(Eze Ndigbo Amuwo Odofin) Eze Jude Arinze(Eze Ndigbo of Isolo)Eze Ndigbo of Ajeromi Ifelodun,Ikate Surulere, Chief Sunday Udeh(PG Igbo Speaking Community) among others.

    As the celebration comes to a close, the monarch’s message of peace and unity is expected to resonate with his people, inspiring them to strive for a more harmonious and prosperous community.

    The New Yam Festival serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural values and traditions in promoting peace and stability.

    Eze Njubigbo’s leadership is a beacon of hope , and his commitment to their well-being is unwavering.

    Highlight of the event was the cutting of the new yam which signifies the dawn of a new season.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • CSACEFA, Stakeholders’ Advocacy Enhance Education Funding In Imo

    CSACEFA, Stakeholders’ Advocacy Enhance Education Funding In Imo

    By Chigozie Uzosike, Owerri 

    The funding allocation of education sector in Imo State has increased from 2024 to 2025 given the advocacies and engagements of the civil society organizations coordinated by Civil Society Action Coalition on Education for All (CSACEFA).

    In his analysis of the state budget at the education summit held on Thursday October, 2025 in collaboration with the Ministry of Primary & Secondary Education, the State Coordinator of CSACEFA, Elder Kenneth Amogu said there’s an improvement of what is budgeted for 2025 against 2024 and 2023. “While the total state budget in 2025 is N807B the budget for Education sector is N67B With this amount, Education got 8.30%-of the total state budget, which is about 99.84% increase compared to the 2024 budgetary allocation of 4.23%”. CSACEFA Imo State appreciates all the stakeholders for this efforts.

    “In 2024, the total State budget stood at N592B with the budget for the Education sector standing at N25B With this amount, Education got 4.23% of the total state budget. The total state budget in 2023 stood at N474B, Education got a sector budget of
    N23B and With this amount, Education got 4.98% of the total state budget”.

    Amogu said, “The Education sector got more funds in 2025 (2025 budget N67B Less N25B-2024 Budget = N41B), With extra = N41B in 2025, the Education sector received a significant increase in funding. With this development, the state has made progress towards achieving the internationally recommended benchmark of 20% of Public Expenditure allocated to Education”.

    Speaking during the Education Out Loud (EOL) project, Education Summit organized by Civil Society Action Coalition on Education For All (CSACEFA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, at IMSUBEB Multi purpose hall, the Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, Prof. Bernard Ikegwuoha said there’s need to understand that the community members ought to take ownership of the schools in their communities and stop blaming government because government cannot do it alone. He hinted that the state government under Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma is bringing innovation that would help boost education and reduce financial racketeering in the education sector. “Going forward payment of WAEC will be paid through a portal. The 408 secondary and 1277 primary schools respectively will go through a cashless process that will help ease the pains parents suffer”.

    He called on individuals, stakeholders to contribute their quota to the development of education. He called on communities to mobilize efforts in rebuilding their dilapidated schools and protecting them, stressing that alumni associations should come in and support their alma-mata. He urged corporate institutions to deploy their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds to developing education in the state. He urged stakeholders to think globally and act locally in addressing the concerns of education funding”.

    In his contributions, the Commissioner for Tertiary and Technical Education, Imo state, Prof. Victor Nwachukwu said, “Education is not seen in the flamboyancy of life. The real education is about the continuous refinement of the sensibility of man”.

    He insisted that to ensure proper funding of education, public-private partnership has to play key factor because private investors who are lovers of education and philanthropists need to come in to close the gap between what is budgeted and what is released especially that the government of Imo state has shown commitment to providing better learning environment for education to thrive. He talked about crowd funding and revenue diversification in increasing education funding.

    In his submission, the Executive Chairman of IMSUBEB, Hon. Chidiebere Egbo called on stakeholders to continue to support the state government in her resolve to delivering better equiped classrooms, especially now that the SMART school development is under way to enable students go global and digitalized. He said that Education for All is the responsibility of all, not the government alone.

    In his submission, the traditional ruler of Umuokanne community, HRH, Eze, Dr. Mathew Chiedozie Nwokoma (Okaa Omee IV of Umuokanne) called on the rich in the communities to pick one child in their communities and train them to university level, that way according to him, the rate of out-of- school children will reduce. He said this approach will support the government in her free education programme.

    In his opening speech earlier, the CSACEFA Coordinator, Imo State chapter, Elder Kenneth Amogu appreciated CSACEFA National Secretariat, supported by GPE Oxfam denmark for considering Imo State worthy to be part of the Education Out Loud Project OC 1.3. He noted that the Education Out Loud (EOL) Project Education Summit is coming at a time every education stakeholder in the State needs to redouble their efforts in ensuring that the SDG 4 is achieved, adding that education in the State is yet to become transformative which aims to eradicate poverty. He appreciated the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, and the Imo State Universal Basic Education Board (IMSUBEB) through the UNICEF and other NGO Desk, for their support and collaboration to host the summit again. He lauded stakeholders for making out time to attend.

    “Being the second Education Summit, within the implementation time line of the EOL Project OC 1.3 (2024-2026), the Summit is coming at a time stakeholder needs to look at efforts made so far in ensuring that the SDG 4 is achieved in the state. With 5 more years remaining to get to 2030, we have recorded a number of progress, still our education system needs more funding to achieve the goal. The objective of this summit is to bring education stakeholders in the state together to note the level of progress made in the sector, identify areas that require further funding support, make recommendations, and with our context in view, make suggestions on how to work together for better financing of the sector to enable the state achieve SDG 4”.

    “While we appreciate government on the progress made so far, which include the commencement of documentation and training of the recruited teachers, monitoring on the use of approved school curriculum, the reconstitution of SBMC, etc, we will want you to note that participants at today’s summit are drawn from key stakeholders with wealth of knowledge and information about the sector, and will bring this information to the table as we deliberate on how to improve the financing support of the education sector in the state to do more. While we welcome inputs from our participants, we will like to remind all that partnership and collaboration is very essential in achieving targeted goals, and eradicating poverty. As we deliberate today, let us stop the impediments to education financing progress and be willing to change them for the state to make the required progress”.

    The Director UNICEF and other NGO Desk of IMSUBEB, Dr. Mrs. Chinwe Adim-Madumere encouraged participants to contribute positively to the development of education at their Individual levels, while appreciating all and sundry for coming.

    One of the highlights of the summit was Imo CSACEFA presentation of an analysis of the 2025 State Budget, relating it to the Education sector budget of 2024 and 2023, and CSACEFA recommendations and position on critical needs of the Education sector, which include increase of sector funding to address some critical needs, like: improvement on teachers professional development and training, with provision of mordern trainings like the Gender Responsive Pedagogy Teachers Training -GRPTT, Teachers welfare, maintenance of a Gender Responsive Education Sector Plan, Development of sector Central Data Base, improvement of school security and infrastructure with support of the School Based Management Committee (SBMC), Release of Budgeted funds for the sector projects implementation,improvements on school infrastructure, partnerships for the adoption of schools, among others.

    In a communique issued at the end of the Summit, participants agreed on the need for corporate organisations to support the education sector as part of their CSR, for individuals and Philanthropists to adopt a child for scholarship, adopt a school for support, for diaspora unions to give back to their alma mater, for communities to secure and protect school infrastructure through the SBMC, and for stakeholders to collaborate with Government for an increased funding of the education sector, and for the achievement of SDG 4.

    Participants were drawn from corporate organisations, MDAs, Civil Society, the print and electronic media, SBMC, Community President General, Religious bodies, Traditional Authorities, among others.

  • Trailer Parks Ban: Kogi Govt Sets October 29 Deadline For Compliance

    Trailer Parks Ban: Kogi Govt Sets October 29 Deadline For Compliance

    Emmanuel lkpeama.

    The Kogi State Government has announced a strict enforcement of the ban on trailer parks across the state, effective October 29, 2025.

    Governor Usman Ododo’s directive follows credible intelligence reports that some trailer parks, particularly in Zariagi and Osara, have become hideouts for criminal elements.

    The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, stated that the government would no longer tolerate these facilities being used to compromise the security of lives and property.

    “We have decided to move ahead of the criminals instead of lamenting after lives might have been lost,” he said.

    “The directive of His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, is clear. From October 29, 2025, the state will begin full enforcement of the ban on trailer parks.

    “Intelligence at our disposal shows that some of these parks, especially those at Zariagi and Osara, harbor criminals who threaten the peace and security of our people.”

    “This is a proactive and preventive measure. We have decided to move ahead of the criminals instead of lamenting after lives might have been lost. Government won’t allow that to continue,” Fanwo said.

    Investigator news reports the security agencies have been briefed to enforce the ban without compromise, and violators will face the full weight of the law.

    The enforcement is backed by a law signed by Governor Ododo, banning the movement of articulated trucks during the day.

    The Commissioner urged trailer park operators to comply before the deadline and called on residents to support the government’s action, emphasizing that protecting lives and securing communities is the administration’s top priority.

    He urged operators to comply before the enforcement date and called on residents to support the government’s action, stressing that protecting lives and securing communities remain the top priority of the present administration.

    Fanwo urged trailer park operators to comply before the deadline and called on residents to support the government’s action, emphasizing that protecting lives and securing communities is the administration’s top priority.

     

     

     

  • Nigeria@65:Igbo Should Promote Peaceful Co-Existence,Says Chief Ubah

    Nigeria@65:Igbo Should Promote Peaceful Co-Existence,Says Chief Ubah

    Tunde Omoniyi 

    The Chairman of Ohaneze Ndigbo Lagos State,Atto Awori Chapter,High Chief Emmanuel Ubah (Otunba Ojoto)has urged Igbo communities in Lagos State and across the country to actively promote peaceful coexistence.

    In a congratulatory message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Comrade Emmanuel lkpeama, Chief Ubah enjoined Ndigbo to continually contribute meaningfully to national unity.

    “Our people have always believed in Nigeria. We have invested in her unity, not just with words, but with action, through commerce, culture, and community building across the length and breadth of this country.

    “That investment must not be in vain. We must continue to work together in peace, with confidence in our collective future, knowing that unity is our greatest strength.”he stated

    Speaking on Nigeria’s independence, Ubah who is one of the leading aspirant for President Ohaneze Ndigbo Lagos State come 2026 extend his warmest felicitations to Ndigbo living in Lagos State and, by extension, to all Ndigbos and Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.

    He stated that sixty-five years ago, the founding fathers ignited the flame of freedom with a vision of a sovereign nation anchored on unity, resilience, and limitless possibilities.

    “Today, though we continue to grapple with challenges as a people, we must equally celebrate our undeniable progress, our shared values, and the indomitable Nigerian spirit that has never wavered in the face of adversity”

    “As Ndigbo,this day is not only a remembrance of our journey so far; it is also a clarion call to renewal, a call to rebuild, to reimagine, and to reaffirm our collective commitment to justice, peace, and shared prosperity.”

    “On this 65th Independence day, may the labors of our heroes past never be in vain. May we rise above despair into the dawn of renewed hope. And may Nigeria, under God, fulfill its destiny as the giant of Africa and the pride of its people.”he submitted

     

  • Ododo Mourns Victims Of Ibaji Boat Mishap, Pledges Support.

    Ododo Mourns Victims Of Ibaji Boat Mishap, Pledges Support.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Executive Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has expressed deep sadness over the tragic boat mishap on the River Niger, which claimed the lives of 26 passengers.

    Investigator news reports that the victims were traders traveling from Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State to Ilushi market in Edo State.

    In press statement on Wednesday 1, October 2025,by the Hon. Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo stated that the government and people of Kogi State received with deep sadness the news of the boat mishap which occurred on the River Niger, involving traders traveling from Ibaji Local Government Area of Kogi State to Ilushi market in Edo State.

    “Reports indicate that the unfortunate incident has allegedly claimed the lives of not less than 26 passengers.

    “This is a heartbreaking loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased, as well as the entire Ibaji Local Government Area, in this moment of grief.”

    “His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the Executive Governor of Kogi State, has expressed deep condolences to the bereaved families and has directed relevant agencies, including the State Emergency Management Agency, to work with local authorities to provide immediate support and relief to those affected.”

    “The Governor further assured that the State Government will intensify ongoing efforts in collaboration with federal agencies to improve safety measures on our waterways in order to prevent a recurrence of such a tragedy.”the statement reads.

    Fanwo assured that the State Government will work with federal agencies to improve safety measures on waterways, while urging the people to prioritize safety by avoiding overloading and using life jackets.

    Investigator news gathered that the government pledged to support the people of Ibaji Local Government Area during this difficult time.

    “We call on our people, especially riverine communities, to always prioritise safety by avoiding overloading and by using life jackets and other precautionary measures whenever they travel by water.”

    “The Government of Kogi State stands with the people of Ibaji LGA and will continue to support them through this difficult time.”he submitted