Category: Nigerian Tribune

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Borno State chapter, has urged Nigerians to make the right choices and take responsibility for the progress of the country rather than blaming leaders alone for its challenges.

The State CAN Chairman, Bishop John Bogna Bakeni, made the call in Maiduguri, noting that the turnaround of Nigeria’s economic and political situation depends on the deliberate actions and conduct of its citizens.

According to him, ‘As I said in my message on the pulpit, Nigerians must make the right choices. We must hold our leaders accountable at all levels, but we must also take responsibility.

‘We must choose to do the right thing and be deliberate in our choices of good over evil. It is not enough to desire a better country; we must make efforts to build it,’ Bishop Bakeni said.

Delivering his sermon titled ‘We should not lust after evil things as they also lusted,’ drawn from 1 Corinthians 10:6, the Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Maiduguri said corruption, dishonesty, and social decay begin within individuals and families.

He said many of the challenges facing Nigeria, including kidnapping, banditry, corruption, terrorism, and tribalism, arise from moral negligence and the failure of families to instill proper values in their children.

‘We cannot continue to blame the government alone. Parents must monitor their children and instill discipline and honesty in them. Evil thrives when families abandon their moral duties,’ he added.

The unity service, held at St. John’s Anglican Church, Maiduguri, brought together priests, pastors, church leaders, and worshippers from across the metropolis. It was jointly organised by Maiduguri Metropolitan CAN and the Borno State CAN leadership.

In his remarks, the Maiduguri Metro CAN Coordinator, Pastor Timothy Olanrewaju, thanked members for attending despite the economic challenges. He said the annual gathering was meant to thank God for His mercy and to pray for peace in Borno and Nigeria.

‘We just came out of a devastating flood, and though it returned this year, God took control. That is why we gathered to praise Him and offer prayers for the land,’ Olanrewaju said.

He also commended the Borno State Government for its response to last year’s flood and its ongoing efforts to return displaced persons to their communities.

Blending wellness, creativity, and fine dining, PitStop Restaurant has unveiled PitStop Village – a multi-faceted lifestyle destination in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The project, described by its founder, Aminadab Adegboro as a ‘celebration of Lagos energy,’ represents a shift from the brand’s beginnings as a themed café into a world-class wellness and hospitality centre.

Founded in 2019, PitStop outlived pandemic challenges while retaining its entire workforce, a decision the founder said was guided by ‘faith in people and purpose.’

At the event, where guests were treated to a six-course meal dining and wine tasting, she thanked the Lagos community, investors, and partners for sustaining the dream, while highlighting the PitStop Academy’s outreach to 400 underserved children and 45 cyclists.

‘We wanted to build a space that reflects excellence and social good,’ she said, adding that the brand’s model fuses lifestyle, learning, and empowerment. She emphasised that PitStop’s success reflects the resilience of Nigerian entrepreneurship and the city’s growing appetite for quality experiences.

General Manager, Jamal Bendghoughi, detailed the concept behind PitStop Village, describing it as an ecosystem of café, gym, restaurant, and rooftop bar designed for wholesome living. ‘Everything we serve – from bread to ice cream – is made from scratch,’ he said. ‘Our food blends French techniques with African character, ensuring every meal tells a story of craftsmanship.’ Weekly events, including DJ sessions and live jazz nights, aim to make PitStop a lively cultural hub for relaxation and connection.

The evening also featured the unveiling of Phoenix by PitStop, a premium fine-dining restaurant that extends the brand’s creative flair. Built with attention to design and acoustics, Phoenix combines food, music, and community in an intimate yet elegant setting.

The host, one of Nigeria’s finest music artiste, Dare Art Alade, described Phoenix as a restaurant designed to create memories in comfort and style saying, ‘This is not just a venue; it’s an experience.’

Among the guests was Ngozi Madueke-Dozie, a longtime member of the PitStop community, who described the event as ‘inspirational.’ She praised the founder’s story and the fusion of fitness with fine dining, highlighting the nine-course meal paired with curated wines. ‘PitStop has achieved what many thought impossible – merging a gym and a restaurant into one seamless, world-class experience,’ she said, commending the brand’s authenticity and attention to detail.

The village houses a restaurant, gym, wellness lab, sports shop, café, and rooftop bar, among other facilities.

THE Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) has reiterated its commitment to relentless anti-piracy operations nationwide, despite violent and unprovoked attacks on its officials.

It condemned a September 25, 2025, attack on its officers and personnel of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), who were providing security support during an anti-piracy operation at Sabo Market, Sagamu, Ogun State.

The Commission disclosed that its enforcement team was ambushed shortly after identifying and impounding pirated books found in an unmarked shop in the market, but that it would not relent in executing its constitutionally mandated role.

NCC’s Director General, Dr John Asein, commended officers of both agencies for their restraint in the face of provocation and saluted their gallantry and unwavering commitment to the renewed campaign against copyright piracy and other activities that threaten Nigeria’s creative industries.

He promised that ‘working with relevant authorities and the market executives, the Commission will ensure that those behind this brazen attack are identified and brought to book. In addition to other offences, it is also an offence under the Copyright Act to obstruct, hinder, assault, or impede a Copyright Officer in the lawful performance of his duties or in the exercise of powers conferred by the Act.’

Dr Asein further reaffirmed that the NCC remained resolute in its mission to stem copyright piracy and ensure that Nigerian creators enjoy the full benefits of their intellectual labour.

‘We will not relent in fulfilling our statutory mandate, particularly at this time when the Federal Government is prioritising the creative and copyright-based industries for employment generation, wealth creation, and national development.’

He requested that all stakeholders join forces with the NCC in the fight against copyright piracy.

Governor Umo Eno and key stakeholders across Akwa Ibom State have commended the Chairman of Itu Local Government Area, Hon. Ubong Wilson Nkutt, for what they described as a transformative, transparent, and accountable first year in office.

The commendations came at the weekend during a media and stakeholders’ briefing where Nkutt presented his one-year stewardship report, highlighting landmark projects and reforms implemented across the council.

Governor Eno, who had earlier commissioned the ultra-modern Itu Council Secretariat within his first 100 days in office, described the edifice as ‘as beautiful as Government House, Uyo,’ noting that it stands as a symbol of visionary and result-driven local governance.

‘What Hon. Nkutt has done in Itu is proof that good governance does not depend on the size of a budget but on sincerity of purpose. This is a model worth emulating by other council chairmen,’ the Governor had said.

He commended the ‘Itu Model’ as a practical demonstration of the state’s ARISE Agenda, blending infrastructure renewal, social welfare, and digital innovation.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Housing and Itu political leader, Rt. Hon. Henry Archibong, said Nkutt’s administration had restored public confidence in local governance.

‘Ubong Nkutt has brought a breath of fresh air to Itu. From modern offices to youth empowerment, from peace to digital governance, Itu now stands as a reference point for others,’ Archibong said.

Also, the Deputy Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Kufreabasi Edidem, described the chairman’s approach as a ‘masterclass in focus, transparency, and result-oriented leadership.’

‘Nkutt’s first year has set a benchmark for others to follow. He has redefined what it means to serve with purpose and accountability,’ Edidem added.

Traditional rulers, former council chairmen, and community stakeholders who attended the briefing at Mbak Atai commended the chairman’s achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, security, youth empowerment, and sports.

Among Nkutt’s flagship projects is the 30-office Council Secretariat complex, featuring internal road networks, solar-powered lighting, a perimeter fence, and a renovated legislative building – all completed within his first year in office.

In the area of security, Nkutt established a Forward Operating Base (FOB) at Ikot Adakpan Beach, Oku Iboku, to strengthen military operations against riverine insecurity.

The facility, commissioned by Brigadier General N. E. Okoloagu, Commander of 2 Brigade, Nigerian Army, has been credited with enhancing peace and safety in the area.

His administration also prioritised human capacity development, empowering farmers, restoring clean water to health centres, sponsoring medical interventions, supporting students with learning materials, and launching a digital platform that issues QR-coded Certificates of Origin – the first of its kind at the local government level.

Under his leadership, Itu emerged overall champions at the 2025 Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival, winning 106 medals, including 70 gold – the council’s best performance in history.

The Paramount Ruler of Itu, HRH Ntenyin Edet Inyang, captured the general sentiment, saying, ‘He has shown us that local government can work. We have seen the difference – not promises but projects.’

For Governor Umo Eno and stakeholders in Itu, Nkutt’s first year in office stands as clear evidence that with sincerity, focus, and innovation, grassroots governance can thrive and mirror the excellence of state administration.

Seadove Generale Surveillance Company Limited has provided free medical care to more than 900 residents of Onna Local Government Area and nearby communities in Akwa Ibom State.

The weeklong outreach, held at Abat Primary Health Centre, was organized in partnership with the Voice of Community and Environmental Rights Initiative (VCERI) as part of the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility program.

The exercise covered health education, laboratory tests, consultations, eye care, drug prescriptions, and minor surgeries, all provided at no cost.

A 60-year-old farmer, Mr. Kufreabasi, who received treatment during the outreach, described the initiative as a ‘lifesaver.’

‘I have battled high blood pressure for five years without proper treatment because I couldn’t afford hospital bills. This program is a big relief for me and many others,’ Kufreabasi said.

Another beneficiary, Mrs. Mary Udom, said the health talk session helped her understand how to prevent diseases and adopt a healthier lifestyle.

‘I’ve learned how to eat better, keep clean surroundings, and avoid self-medication. This is more than just treatment, it’s empowerment,’ she noted.

Speaking with journalists, the Executive Director of Business Development and Strategy at Seadove, Mr. Godwin Ekpo, said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to community welfare.

‘We owe it to our host communities to deliver impact-driven CSR. Our target is to reach at least 900 people, including 40 minor surgeries,’ he stated.

Ekpo, who noted the large turnout, said the outreach covered five local government areas – Onna, Eket, Eastern Obolo, Ibeno, and Mkpat-Enin – reaching about 38 communities.

‘The crowd today is a proof that the need for quality healthcare at the grassroots is massive. We’re happy to be part of the solution,’ he added.

The Vice Chairman of Onna LGA, Mrs. Mfon Jeremiah, who represented the Chairman, Hon. Kufre Umoren, commended Seadove for supporting Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, especially in the health sector.

‘This is a worthy partnership that complements government efforts. We urge other corporate bodies to emulate Seadove’s example,’ she said.

Also speaking, the Village Head of Ikot Ntuen, Ette Idung Ubong Ekanem, praised the company for its gesture.

‘Seadove has shown that development is not just about roads and buildings; it is about touching lives,’ he said.

He expressed hope that the outreach would continue across other communities, noting that many beneficiaries look forward to similar interventions to help close the healthcare gap in rural areas of Akwa Ibom State.

Ekiti Governor, Biodun Oyebanji has said that the forthcoming October 27 governorship primary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is an opportunity to sustain the progress recorded in the party since his assumption of office three years ago.

Oyebanji made this known during a meeting with the BAO Primary Election Local Organizing Committee from the 16 local governments at his Ikogosi residence at the weekend.

The governor stressed the need to accommodate individuals who uphold the principles and vision of the party, worked tirelessly for the party’s success and made sacrifices for its collective good.

He said, ‘I keep telling people, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji can only be governor. The issue at hand is a collective issue for all of us and that has a lot of implications for others.

‘It is not about BAO, it is about the system, the party you have nurtured for a very long time.The APC is the aircraft that is taking us to our destination and nothing must happen to it.’

Oyebanji, who appreciated the LOC members, party chieftains and members for standing behind his re-election, urged them not to relent in their efforts but remain focused as the primary gathered momentum.

‘I am extremely grateful for your support and God knows that I value your efforts. I am grateful for everything you have done and will still do. It energizes and gives me confidence to move on.

‘This is the first time that I am seeing leaders, appointees contributing money voluntarily for a political cause , it has never happened including workers, PWDs. Let us remain focused and not distracted,’ he said.

Presenting the report of the just concluded ward tour from Ikole local government area, Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye reaffirmed that the people of the area will deliver massively for the governor’s re-election at the primaries.

On her part for Ado local government, Deputy Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Bolaji Olagbaju said the ward-to-ward tour attracted a large turnout of party members, who unanimously declared their unalloyed support for the governor’s re-election.

A chieftain of the APC, Chief Jide Awe and former Attorney General, Wale Fapohunda SAN , urged members to continue in their strides to mobilise in their wards and occupy the space before the primary election.

FROM the Olubadan Ladoja penultimate Friday’s coronation , there were, as bound to be, viral Bola Tinubu moments.

One, was the brief socializing with the free-spirit Osun governor, Jackson Adeleke. The president, as seen in the video was bantering with the PDP governor, blocked by Osun APC from joining the President in the ruling party in the spirit of the southern coalition being coupled by the Nigerian leader, to smoothen his reelection. In what was obviously a friendly poke, the President while shooting for a handshake, quipped ‘ijonko o’ (how is dancing), an unveiled reference to the governor’s penchant for regular display of his dancing dexterity, despite his size, which makes his usual energetic ‘moonwalk’ a rich spectacle. Not one to let such affability go to waste, he, while bowing to take the President’s offered handshake, replied with unmissable flourish; ‘ijowadaada sir’ (dancing is great sir). That brief exchange should reinforce to Osun APC stalwarts that their leader in Abuja has a soft spot for the one they don’t want in Osun. May God help the state opposition if Jackson moonwalks over them to re-election next year. That would be the political end of many current leaders of Osun APC. To stand a chance of proving to their Abuja leader whose body language has shown that he would prefer the incumbent Osun governor as a member of the Progressive Governors (like Delta, Akwa-Ibom and likely Rivers), Osun APC leaders must get the nomination right by going for the aspirant with consolidated voting base like the incumbent. Until Borno State caught up with Osun days back, as the highest-netting in fishing new voters, Adeleke’s Osun West was topping nationally, an undeniable proof of his get-out-the-vote groundwork.

It shows a man who is ready.

Kano, another huge-voting state is mirroring Osun, though its political climate isn’t yet as crystal. President Tinubu no doubt, covets the vote-sweeping influence of former governor and NNPP lord, Rabiu Kwankwaso who was also at the Ibadan event and whose attempt at drawing the attention of the Nigerian leader also created another Tinubu moment. A viral video showed the President security team initially bouncing him off the periphery of the President’s perimeter as he (Tinubu) arrived the Mapo Hall venue but before he could be roughened up, the President signalled he should be allowed access to him.

By any measure and every standard, Kwankwaso is a heavy-hitter in Nigerian political firmament and holds joint-record with AyodeleFayose and KayodeFayemi, both of Ekiti State, of non-consecutive gubernatorial second term. He is also the 2023 presidential candidate with the largest votes from a state; his Kano State, creaming almost a million votes at a go. He had been minister of defence and currently governs Kano, the largest voting state of 2023 poll, through his son in-law, incumbent Governor Abba Yusuf. So there is no way the Kano strongman is unknown to the President security team and in many public fora, Tinubu, before and when he came into office, had acknowledged Kwankwaso a friend. So what went wrong? It is in public domain that Kwankwaso is open to a return to APC, potentially to help re-elect his friend and possibly position himself for an enhanced 2031 run when power is expected to return to the North. President also wanted him. But there is AbdullahiGanduje alongside other Kano APC big men in the middle, like Osun APC leaders, reportedly standing against having their former leader and his hand-held governor back in the fold, where Governor Yusuf will become the de jure leader, and his father in-law; Kwankwaso, the de facto leader.

Unlike Osun where the President reportedly agreed that Adeleke and APC leaders should first test might in next year gubernatorial poll to know who should lead his coalition in the state ahead of 2027, Tinubu, according to his orbit had done a lot to assure Kwankwaso of his commitment to their partnership if he returns to the APC fold for him, including having to painfully pinch Ganduje. But the Kwankwasiyya leader has been allegedly irresolute, constantly shifting his conditions to meet before decamping. Weeks back he went public in the media space with his desire and conditions, with the President reportedly souring on him and deciding to look elsewhere for solutions to his Kano deficits, notably the 2023 gap of 419,938 votes between him in second place and Rabiu in the lead.

When security begin to bounce someone who used to have access to their principal, words must have definitely gone around and about. The Ibadan scenario looks like using the right hand to pull a naughty child’s ear and using the left to rub the back of his head. Did RMK get the message?

Then there was the BAO snub at the Ibadan airport where attending governors formed a beeline to welcome the Nigerian leader. Pray, why is the President resorting to public snub and its attendant opprobrium to manifest his discontent towards his allegedly errant party governors, especially those of Yoruba extraction?. First it was the Lagos man, Babajide Sanwoolu who the President refused to acknowledge and greet during the controversial commissioning of a portion of Lagos-Calabar highway on May 30 this year. The President is from Lagos and was governor of the state like Sanwoolu between 1999 and 2007. By standing up to then-President Olusegun Obasanjo of then-ruling PDP, he gave the governor’s seat character, elan and respect. Though they later made whatever was between them up eight days after through the intervention of the nebulous GAC, the incumbent had been served as they say. It’s doubtful if a swashbuckling Governor Tinubu of his time and term in Lagos would have peacefully resolved such public shaming with any president whether of his party or from the opposition.

BAO, arrayed from his names, is the political sobriquet of the 57-year-old Ekiti governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. Married to a professor, the governor has been practically what anyone aspiring at Ekiti level could be, including serving as the secretary of the Falegan committee that made the creation of the state possible. It is just fitting that he leads the state he helped create. He should also be allowed to lead as he deems right and if found wanting, his reelection fate should be left for Ekiti electorate to determine. Period.

Before the Ibadan debacle, I had heard from power corridors in Abuja things weren’t well between the Governor and the President who is also the national leader of their party. While BAO has been variously judged average and even below average in governance delivery, his problem with Abuja was said to be mainly political and just like the Sanwoolu situation, the President gave a public confirmation to the behind-the-curtain muttering that Oyebanji is no longer a ‘son’ in whom he is well pleased. At the airport reception, the President walked past him as if he didn’t exist despite his three-piece white agbada ensemble, standing at the head of the line of other governors and dignitaries. The security just moved in-between them as the President looked away and straight, unlike the Kwankwaso case later when the Nigerian leader rescued the Kano fellow from his security who appeared to be following strict orders.

Oyebanji’s alleged sins are mainly political and the constitution covers freedom of association. If President Tinubu as APC national leader thinks Oyebanji is derailing from the vision of the party, there are better ways of reining him in or keeping him out permanently without resorting to embarrassing his person, for fleeting political power. Yes I know people can bone (naija street lingo for snub) offending beloved, as a way of expressing disavowal so they come bearing repentance and desiring forgiveness but even for Trump the ruffler, there are acts that won’t be presidential. Add to the fact the President is a Yoruba elder who shouldn’t be handling the proverbial festival like a teen (agbakinseoro bi ewe).

Like President Tinubu, the two governors, publicly humiliated over if I heard right, alleged acts that he himself would endorse as survival politics in his days in the thick, wild forest of politics, are Yoruba. While he is definitely older than both, respect should be reciprocal. And I ask, is it only South West APC governors that are overreaching in the President’s estimation? Will the President treat Northern APC governors this way regardless of political sin? Did ordinary palace guards of a Northern emir not break down doors in utter disregard for established protocol to let their lord into an event where the President was already seated? Whoever sells his own short will pay heavily for outsiders.

If the public smackdowns are the President’s way of settling scores especially with governors who he would not be able to monitor directly on election day, then he risks a situation Yoruba will describe as bottling the crimson inside while spitting out bright saliva. It is dangerous when people play along. If you see my hand you can’t see my mind situation. Whenever I see Governor Sim smiling the President into superlatives. a Yoruba adage is always jumping at me; ‘onikun lo mero’. Won’t interpret.

When you need to make others feel small for you to feel big, it is the highest manifestation of inner weakness. Dishing to others what you can’t take is against divine rule of do unto others as you want others do to you. Why publicly disgracing someone who has come to honour you?

The latest presidential humiliation is two too many. If the President is this way in the public, how toxic can things get with him in private when displeased, considering how he has been making grown men feel very small in full glare because he wanted everybody on board his re-election plans. The tortoise in-laws, even when rightly wronged, will always carry the shame of doing too much to shame their offending son-in-law. Haba! Kilode!

Opeyemi Ayanwale, popularly known as Imisi, on Sunday emerged as the winner of Season 10 of the Big Brother Naija reality television show, themed ’10/10′, after polling 42.8 percent of the total votes in the final week.

According to statistics released by Big Brother Naija on its official Facebook page, Imisi’s 42.8 percent vote share placed her far ahead of her closest rivals.

Dede came second with 15.94 percent, while Koyin followed closely with 15.23 percent.

Other finalists: Sultana, Kola, Jason Jae, Mensah, Isabella, and Kaybobo garnered 7.94 percent, 5.48 percent, 4.24 percent, 3.54 percent, 3.07 percent, and 1.72 percent, respectively.

Imisi’s victory earned her the ?80 million grand prize, making her the fourth female housemate to win the reality television show.

The ’10/10′ edition, which ran for 72 days, featured 29 housemates and premiered on July 26 and 27, 2025, with Ebuka Obi-Uchendu hosting the show for the ninth consecutive time.

With this win, Imisi joins the exclusive list of past winners, including Katung Aduwak, Efe Ejeba, Miracle Igbokwe, Mercy Eke, Olamilekan Agbeleshebioba (Laycon), Hazel Oyeze Onou (Whitemoney), Ijeoma Josephina Otabor (Phyna), Ilebaye Odiniya, and Kingsley Sule (Kellyrae).

FOR many years, skill acquisition was often pushed to the background, while Western education was highly valued in Nigeria and regarded as the main path to success. However, the current economic reality, which has driven unemployment to unprecedented levels, has compelled both government and individuals to recognise the value of skills acquisition, not only as a viable source of income but also as a vital contributor to national development.

The essence of skill acquisition is as crucial as water to the human body. Increasingly, unemployed youths, particularly graduates, are realising its importance and embracing it as a source of livelihood.

A recent finding by Sunday Tribune showed that many young Nigerians now pursue Western education alongside skill development. Many of them use their compulsory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) year to acquire one form of technical or artisanal skill, while some graduates continue after completing service.

For example, visits to mechanics’ workshops and similar sites show a surge in apprenticeship among young boys and girls, including secondary school leavers, a development that reflects the growing zeal for skill development.

From all indications, skill acquisition is critical to addressing unemployment, which has fuelled social vices and the mass migration of Nigerian youths in search of menial jobs abroad.

As part of efforts to stimulate youth interest in skills and address the skilled manpower shortage, the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) launched the SUPA programme to increase professionalism and provide trainees with internationally recognised certification. Several training centres have been enlisted under the initiative.

Speaking to Sunday Tribune during an inspection tour of Skill Up Artisan (SUPA) Training Centres organised by the ITF in Jos, Plateau State, an economics graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Hauwa Ibrahim, said she enrolled to learn tailoring after repeated unsuccessful attempts to secure employment.

She explained that after two years of job hunting without success, she realised learning a skill was her best option and decided to pursue it as both a passion and a career path.

During the recent visit to some of the centres in Jos, ITF Director-General, Dr Oluwatoyin Afiz Ogun, said the SUPA programme is designed to transform vocational training in Nigeria and equip artisans with skills to meet modern economic demands.

He stressed that the initiative is not only to bridge the skills gap but also to drive sustainable development and empower the workforce.

He noted that countries like China actively integrate skills into education from an early stage, with a focus on green skills. In line with this, ITF has established the ITF Model School Skill Academy.

Speaking while inspecting the new academy, Dr Ogun said its aim is to inspire young Nigerians in skill development. The programme, he explained, aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s goal of combining formal education with skills training to boost the economy.

He said: ‘The academy will commence in September with pupils from ITF Model School, Jos. Regular school hours will end at 1:30 p.m., after which pupils will be conveyed by bus to the two-hour training daily, with three additional hours at weekends. Initially, it is for JSS 1 and SSS 1 pupils.’

On certification, he explained that trainees will undergo two years of training before sitting for international examinations such as the City and Guilds of London, ensuring global recognition.

‘We will carry their parents along; this is not a case or issue of child labour. When you visit a country like China, this is how they raise their children. We are not discouraging formal education. In the end, they would take both the international test and the WAEC and NECO,’ he said.

The DG added that the academy will be replicated across the six geopolitical zones, adding that students will also receive career guidance from professionals and academics before training begins.

He criticised the inability of Nigerian artisans to work abroad due to a lack of international certification, stressing that every ITF training must now culminate in such certification to prepare graduates for global opportunities.

‘We want Nigeria to become a major exporter of skilled manpower,’ he said, adding that ITF has secured approval from City and Guilds and other global bodies as an exam centre.

During visits to SUPA centres in Jos, Sunday Tribune observed high youth participation, with trainees in IT, mechanics, plumbing, tailoring, hairdressing, welding and other trades, many of them graduates.

A political science graduate, Abdullah Tanko, now training in welding at Solap Technologies, said: ‘I decided to use this training to diversify into something that would give me a consistent income, even though I teach government in secondary school.’

At the Daganel Automobile Mechanic Workshop, trainee Abraham Dauda, who is a roadside mechanic, said certification was his main motivation, adding that he can use it to work anywhere in the world.

‘What I have at the moment is a certificate of learning with no seal of authority. But I was told that following my training here, I will write an examination to be held by City and Guilds of London, which is internationally renowned, meaning that I will be recognised anywhere in the world,’ he said.

Trainer and fashion entrepreneur, Sadia Bayero of Zebah Amani Fashion, said she currently supervises 45 trainees, who will undergo three months of training before sitting for international exams.

She commended ITF and the government for including management and business ethics in the tailoring programme.

The ITF DG, Ogun, also disclosed that a standard workshop has been established at the academy for training in CNG conversion, auto mechanics, and welding.

A former teacher, Albert Ibrahim, commended the government for reviving artisan training.

‘I recall when we were coming up, our parents introduced us to their sources of livelihood or professions. Those whose parents were tailors learned tailoring, blacksmithing, farming, and other skills. We were encouraged to participate in a variety of crafts in both primary and secondary schools. However, these methods of training were eventually abandoned. Thank God, this administration is returning to this in a modernised form,’ he declared.

Billionaire Tesla and X owner, Elon Musk, has set in motion plans for Grokipedia, an AI-powered knowledge platform aimed at challenging Wikipedia by bringing ‘unlimited access to truth’ and removing bias, restriction, or hidden agendas.

Musk announced that Version 0.1 beta of Grokipedia will be published in approximately two weeks time.

The vision for Grokipedia, as described by a post by amXFreeze on X (formerly Twitter) and retweeted by Musk, is bold. ‘Grokipedia is going to be the world’s biggest, most accurate knowledge source, for humans and AI with no limits on use.

‘With Grok, Grokipedia aims for maximum truth through first principles and physics. It replaces partially masked evidences of how legacy media operates, rewriting with complete accurate context that cuts through the BS. this will combat the evil organizations and the evil minds that operating under the hood and who’ve poisoned minds for decades with endless fake news and distorted narratives through legacy media and Wikipedia, causing immense harm to young minds and manipulated the world long enough,’ it reads in parts.

Meanwhile, Tribune Online reports that Grok is X’s built-in AI assistant developed by Elon Musk’s xAI. Unlike generic bots, Grok’s wired into the platform itself, which means that by tagging it @grok with a prompt on X, it can answer trending questions, transcribe video tweets, draft witty tweets, and even provide sarcastic comebacks.

However, Grokipedia will, according to Musk, use heavy inference compute to assimilate sources like Wikipedia and other reference materials, then evaluate statements as true, partially true, false, or missing. It will subsequently rewrite those entries to remove inaccuracies, correct half-truths, and fill in missing context.

Musk described the project as one built on first principles and physics, free from editorial agendas. In his words, Grokipedia is being ‘built solely for the truth. free from bias or hidden agendas.’

The billionaire X owner has previously voiced frustration with Wikipedia’s perceived partiality and influence, accusing it of ideological bias, especially from a conservative perspective, and decrying its role in shaping AI training data.

Musk, on January 21, after the site updated its page on him to include a reference to the much-debated stiff-armed salute he made at a Trump inaugural event, posted on X that ‘since legacy media propaganda is considered a ‘valid’ source by Wikipedia, it naturally simply becomes an extension of legacy media propaganda!’

He urged people not to donate to the site: ‘Defund Wikipedia until balance is restored!’ according to The New Yorker.

On the technical side, in June, Musk has also indicated that the Grok engine will not only correct errors but retrain itself on the improved corpus. ‘We will use Grok 3.5 to rewrite the entire corpus of human knowledge, adding missing information and deleting errors. Then retrain on that.’

It remains unclear how the public will participate, whether through open editing, review, or appeals, or how Grokipedia will manage disputes or conflicting perspectives.

Previous projects like Conservapedia have had limited success largely because of editorial control and acceptance challenges.