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Junior Achievement Nigeria (JAN), in partnership with Johnson and Johnson, has launched this year’s edition of the Winning in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Manufacturing and Design (WiSTEM2D) program.

The initiative is designed to motivate secondary school students to explore careers in STEM fields and develop critical skills needed to thrive in the modern workforce.

This year’s edition adopts a blended learning model, combining digital engagement with in-person activities to enhance participants’ creativity, problem-solving abilities, and confidence.

The program commenced with the National WiSTEM2D Innovation Camp in Lagos, where 66 top-performing students gathered for a full day of immersive learning. Participants interacted with STEM professionals, participated in design-thinking workshops, and showcased their innovative ideas in an ideathon and pitch contest before industry experts.

The highlight of the event was the pitch competition, where three schools emerged as winners:

First Place: Festac Senior College, Festac Town – represented by Betiku Adedolapo, Okorocha Mmesoma, Davidson Chioma, and Igwe Mmaduabuchi – for their project on decentralized waste and recycling stations to bring disposal points closer to communities.

First Runner-Up: Bola Ige Millennium Senior Secondary School – represented by Giwa Faridat Oluwafunmilayo, Anozie Ngozi Maryolivia, Nnodim Goodness, Enukoha Mary, and Omonigho Joy – for their Automated BinBot, a device that separates dry and wet waste to reduce pollution and improve sanitation.

Second Runner-Up: Lagos State Senior Model College – represented by Ezeanya Chisom, Johnchukwu Confidence, Chukwuka Favour, and Nnedu Chukwuemeka – for a project combining health awareness with waste management, including replacing single-use plastics with reusable alternatives and converting organic waste into fertilizer.

Speaking at the event, JAN’s Assistant Director of Programs, Mr. Olaolu Akogun, described the initiative as part of the organisation’s ongoing effort to inspire the next generation of innovators.

‘We are excited to continue our collaboration with Johnson and Johnson through the WiSTEM2D program. This initiative breaks barriers in STEM by equipping young leaders with tools, mentorship, and opportunities to succeed. We are confident it will inspire a new generation of innovators and change-makers to drive Nigeria and Africa’s future,’ he said.

Ms. Jaiyesimi Oyefunke, Country Lead at Johnson and Johnson Nigeria, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting education and youth empowerment through sustainable partnerships.

While the Innovation Camp directly impacted 66 students through hands-on sessions, the reach of the WiSTEM2D program extends further. The next phase – an online STEM Challenge – is set to begin next week, engaging over 750 students across Nigeria.

Through its interactive digital platform, the challenge will expose participants to STEM concepts in fun and competitive ways, broadening access and inspiring more young Nigerians to develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges.

With the ongoing partnership between Junior Achievement Nigeria and Johnson and Johnson, the WiSTEM2D program continues to drive a nationwide movement of young innovators prepared to shape the country’s scientific and technological future.

Some staff of Johnson and Johnson Nigeria, Junior Achievement Nigeria, and participants at the WiSTEM2D Innovation Camp in Lagos.

Singer Seyi Shay has revealed why she isn’t married to the father of her daughter, despite maintaining a close and respectful relationship with him.

Speaking in an interview with Chude Jideonwo, the singer addressed long-standing speculations about her marital status, explaining that their bond remains strong.

‘It’s a technical issue, you understand? But he’s great, he’s cool, he’s around. He’s Nigerian, he’s in the UK at the moment, and he’s also in the music industry on the corporate side of things. We just work together, raising our child and we are great friends,’ she said.

Seyi Shay further described their relationship as one built on mutual respect, saying, ‘We are really brilliant friends now. We co-parent really well.’

Seyi Shay welcomed her daughter in 2022 and has since attributed motherhood for transforming her outlook on love, family, and career

A founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Osita Okechukwu, has said that the planned defection of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) marks the final collapse of the opposition party’s presence in the entire southeast region.

Governor Mbah is expected to formally join the APC on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.

Speaking with journalists on Sunday in Abuja, Okechukwu described the governor’s exit as a defining political moment and clear evidence that the Southeast has finally bid farewell to the PDP.

The former Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON) said Mbah’s decision to leave the PDP for the APC was ‘pragmatic, rational, and inevitable,’ adding that it symbolises the end of the PDP’s dominance in the region, from controlling all five states in 1999 to none in 2025.

Recalling the words of the late Rt. Hon. Dr. Chuba Okadigbo, who lamented that the PDP ‘pays good deeds with bad coins,’ Okechukwu said Mbah’s move vindicates that statement. He cited several instances, including the 1999 Jos presidential primary, where Okadigbo was allegedly betrayed, and the 2003 elections, when the Southeast failed to rally behind the Buhari/Okadigbo ticket.

Okechukwu faulted the PDP’s alleged disregard for equity and justice, pointing to the 2023 presidential primary, where no southern aspirant was allowed to contest despite appeals for power rotation.

‘The last straw that broke the PDP’s camel’s back,’ he said, ‘was the marginalisation of the Southeast during the dispute over the National Secretary position.’

He referenced a communiqué issued by the PDP Southeast Zonal Executive Committee on May 14, 2023, warning that the zone would reconsider its relationship with the party if Sunday Udeh-Okoye was not promptly confirmed as National Secretary following Senator Samuel Anyanwu’s exit to contest the Imo governorship election.

Okechukwu also recalled the remarks of former Senate President and PDP Board of Trustees Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, who lamented the Southeast’s continued neglect by the party despite its long-standing loyalty.

He concluded that the PDP’s serial betrayal and disregard for the Southeast justified Mbah’s defection.

‘Governor Mbah’s exit is not an isolated event,’ Okechukwu said. ‘It represents the final chapter in the Southeast’s disillusionment with a party that failed to reward faithfulness, fairness, and friendship.’

Leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ikpoba-Okha local government area have passed a vote of confidence on the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo.

The Ikpoba-Okha APC leaders said Governor Okpebholo’s leadership has steered the state toward progress and prosperity as well as inspired confidence in the hearts of the citizens

This was contained in a communique issued at the end of Ikpoba-Okha APC leaders meeting held at the residence of a former member of the House of Representatives, Hon Ehiozuwa Agbonyima.

The communique noted that various initiatives launched under Okpebholo’s administration, such as the Flyover Bridge and other road projects demonstrated the Governor’s commitment to improving the quality of life for all Edo citizens.

It commended what it termed Okpebholo’s relentless efforts to enhance infrastructure, education, healthcare, and the focus on economic development and job creation.

The communique said the Edo Governor’s initiatives have fostered a spirit of togetherness and empowerment among the people of Edo State, as well as encouraged active participation in the governance process.

According to the communique, ‘As you continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities that come your way, please know that you have our full support. Your leadership and vision for a better Edo State resonate with our aspirations, and we stand behind you in your quest to elevate our state to even greater heights.

‘We, the good people of Ikpoba-Okha APC, hereby pass a vote of confidence on you for your seamless efforts to make Ikpoba-Okha State a better place for all.’

Addressing the gathering, Hon Agbonyima urged the APC members to be patient with the administration of Okpebholo.

He cautioned against having a divided party in the state.

He said, ‘What is important is working as a team. We can never win any election if we are not working together.

‘Okpebholo is working. He is among the Governors who are working. We have to be patient. Promises were made to the Legacy PDP group. Some of you complained that they are PDP. Do not forget they supported us, and we cannot push them away.

‘We should not start complaining and making derogatory statements at this time. We have other positions that people have complained about.

Our Governor has said Ikpoba-Okha is the most populated local government. He said he will do all to ensure Ikpoba-Okha benefits the most.’

Ikpoba-Okha APC Chairman, Hon Sunny Ogbewe, urged the party members to believe in the ability of Okpebholo to deliver good governance.

Reality TV star and entrepreneur Tacha has revealed why she chose to host her Guinness World Record attempt for the most makeovers done in 24 hours in Nigeria instead of the United Kingdom.

The event, part of her Tacha Beauty Festival, aims to highlight Nigeria’s creative potential and put the country’s beauty industry on the global map.

Tacha, in an interview with Egungun, explained that she initially planned to hold the event in London, with sponsorship from NYX, but decided to prioritise showcasing Nigerian talent and creativity.

‘The plan was London. We already had plans, we had a brand that wanted to sponsor us NYX.

‘But I said, London is not that country that will give me the vibe I want. Then I thought, see my people, they are here.

‘It always makes sense to carry your country along, I’m putting the Nigerian beauty industry on a freaking global map’ she said.

The influencer has been planning the feat for two years and is determined to succeed.

She began the 24-hour record attempt on Saturday night, targeting 150 makeovers.

By Sunday morning, she had already completed 115 makeovers in 12 hours, surpassing the previous record of 113 makeovers in 24 hours.

Tacha dedicated her effort to her late mother, citing her drive and passion for success as a personal motivation.

Despite minor setbacks, including power disruptions, Tacha maintained a fast-paced routine, completing each makeover in minutes.

The event is a celebration of beauty, culture, and resilience, and a testament to Nigerian creativity.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) National Youth Wing has welcomed Hon. Muhammad Lawal Kuryar Madaro, the former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Kaura Namoda South State House of Assembly, following his defection to the APC.

The group said the development signals a growing wave of support for the APC under the visionary leadership of Dr. Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence.

In a statement signed by Comrade Danjuma Nuhu, the APC National Youth Wing celebrated Kurya’s move as a bold embrace of progress.

Kurya’s defection follows his defeat in the August supplementary election, where the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared APC’s Kamilu Sa’idu the rightful winner of the Kaura Namoda South constituency.

Returning Officer Lawal Sa’adu from the Federal University Gusau confirmed Sa’idu’s triumph, securing 1,181 votes against Kurya’s meager 194 in the runoff.

Across the constituency, APC amassed a commanding 8,182 votes, while PDP had 5,544 votes.

Comrade Danjuma Nuhu hailed Matawalle as a political colossus whose strategic brilliance and unrelenting dedication to Zamfara’s security and prosperity have redefined the state’s future.

‘Dr. Bello Matawalle is a rare gem, a leader whose political dexterity and foresight have elevated him to a towering figure in Nigerian politics.

‘As Minister of State for Defence, he has spearheaded relentless efforts to curb banditry, bringing renewed hope to Zamfara’s beleaguered communities.

‘His ability to unite diverse groups and inspire defections like Kurya attests to his magnetic leadership and unyielding commitment to progress,’ Nuhu declared.

Matawalle’s policies, he added, have laid a foundation for peace and development, positioning him as the architect of Zamfara’s renaissance.

The APC National Youth Wing extended an open invitation to other PDP members to join the APC’s progressive fold.

Kurya’s defection, seen as a harbinger of further realignments, signals a shifting tide in Zamfara’s polarized landscape.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Okezie Kalu has pledged to partner with Bildup AI Learning to promote technology development and human capital growth in Nigeria.

Speaking when he visited the technology hub where several youths were undertaking different educational courses with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Enugu on Saturday in the company of the Majority Leader of the House, Professor Julius Ihonbvere and others on the sideline of the Retreat of the House Committee on Review, Kalu emphasised the importance of investing in the nation’s human capital, citing the potential for Nigerians to export services globally.

He highlighted the potential for Nigeria to export services, leveraging the country’s large population and growing talent pool.

Kalu assured that his office would partner with Bildup AI Learning to showcase its work and attract support from government agencies and other stakeholders, stressing that such partnership aims to promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and technological advancement, ultimately contributing to the nation’s economic growth and development.

The Deputy Speaker commended Bildup AI Learning’s efforts in providing cutting-edge education and training in AI and other emerging technologies, saying it aligns with the government’s vision on human capital development.

He said: ‘We need to expand what you are doing and that is where government partnership comes in. We’re going to make a case for you in the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Science and Technology. Also, there are so many NGOs that need to find a credible place to plug in their resources. We will partner with you. The Office of the Deputy Speaker will partner with you to showcase you. It’s nothing about politics. It’s about development. Our human capital development is very key. It is one of our resources in this nation.

‘All over the world, Nigerians are making impacts in various fields of life, especially with the power of our mind. So, anything that will help us export service, we will do. We are exporting goods now, not exporting as much service as we want to export, because we have 200 and almost 250 million people. This will help us churn out more service providers that can sit in Nigeria and provide services to Oracle, Facebook, Instagram, to all of them while you are sitting here, and then, the foreign exchange will come in because of the power of your mind, and that is how you can add value to the growth of this nation. Keep innovating and dreaming. Don’t get tired. The future is bright ‘.

Excited by the ingenuity of the youths and their interest in technology, Kalu encouraged them to keep aiming for the best to accelerate the development of the country.

‘The nation believes in you, and that is why, in the renewing hope agenda of Mr. President, the young ones occupy the center stage of his innovations. Whenever you meet President, he always says, I am interested in building a legacy that will outlive me for our children.

‘You can stretch your hand with innovation. You can add a brick on the wall of nation building with technology.

You know you are disruptors. We see you as disruptors. Disruptors are those who are not comfortable with tradition. Innovators are disruptors, and they disrupt tradition so that they can have true innovation, more productivity. You are not comfortable with the status quo’, he said.

The Deputy Speaker also mooted the idea of introducing the AI learning into the social system as part of the constituency projects for constituents.

‘Build up has simplified learning in the sense that it is accessible and it is cheap. Most of us who are honorable members, representatives of our communities, constituencies before the federal government, it’s about time we put it as part of our constituency projects, so a whole lot of students will come in and learn and build. Human capacity building is key.

‘So, we are looking forward to supporting him so that it can grow, expand and be sustainable. And also, I’m sure with time, Nigeria will hear about build up. We believe in him, and we believe in these young ones I’ve seen. Truly, they are the future of Nigeria, and their dedication and diligence towards this learning is amazing and very impressive’.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bildup AI, Chibuike Aguene said that the innovation will give students equal access to quality education.

‘What you’re witnessing here is the first of its kind. We built an indigenous AI application, the first of its kind all over Africa that can teach and interact with students, just as a human teacher would do. Some schools have already adopted it. Teachers are getting about 80% of their time back. Students are completing a tense programme that takes, typically, three months in about two weeks. There’s a student here. Maybe she will share her experience. She used it to prepare for her JAMB. She scored 97 in that Maths exam. She used build up within couple of weeks preparation.

‘So, what we’ve done here is to rethink. How do we bridge the gap in terms of giving everybody equal access to quality education and leveraging on artificial intelligence, and we’ve successfully implemented that. Recently, the federal government added tech skills as a compulsory course across secondary schools and primary schools. Fortunately, we’ve added all those courses as part of the platform for Bildup AI.

‘I think the best way to explain this is that imagine every student having access to the world best teacher on a one-to-one ratio because one of the things that has been the issue in educational system, not just in Nigeria, across Africa is teacher/student ratio which is about one to fifty. But what we’ve done with technology now is to level it to one-to-one, so that every student can now have a personalized tutor. And let me point out that we are not saying we’ve replaced teachers. No, we’re not replacing teachers. Rather, we are enhancing what they are doing. So, somebody that is in the remote, maybe the village or anywhere, can now access the highest level of knowledge.

‘The AI interacts the way that I’m speaking to you. They will choose even the AI tutorial that they want. We have different names they can choose. It speaks to them, in the accent and the way they will understand it. So, that’s what we have done, and a lot of them now are mastering tech skills, doing all their curriculums.

‘We have an AI career mentor that will guide you, interact with you, understand your interests and this, and then help you, guide you through that path. So, it’s a revolutionary innovation, and it happened here in South East. There’s nothing here that is outsourced. Everything here is built in-house. It’s a moment of pride for the entire region, and I dare say that it is a win win for every innovator across Nigeria here.

‘We are demonstrating the future of education that everybody has been talking about. So, we’ve moved beyond talk to actually show that this can work, and then Africa can lead, and not just Africa, that South East can provide the needed leadership.

‘So, we have a marketplace where, once they go through this programme, the talent is showcased through that market space so that they can access global opportunities and, of course, local opportunities. So, people, different organization, not just in South East, but across the globe can now access talent from the pool that we are churning out here,’ Aguene explained.

Zamfara State First Lady, Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal, has called for sustained efforts to create more opportunities for girls in business, entrepreneurship, leadership, politics, ICT, science, and technology, emphasizing that empowering girls is key to societal progress.

‘When we invest in a girl child, we invest in progress, peace, and prosperity,’ she said.

In a statement by her Press Secretary, Rabi Yusuf, the First Lady encouraged girls across the state and beyond to take pride in who they are and believe in their ability to make meaningful contributions to society.

‘Keep dreaming, learning, and working hard toward becoming your best selves. The world is waiting for your light to shine,’ the statement read.

Speaking as part of activities marking the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child themed ‘The Girl: I’m the Change I Lead – Girls on the Frontline of Crisis,’ Huriyya Dauda reaffirmed her commitment to advancing education, empowerment, and protection for girls in Zamfara State.

She noted that the theme of this year’s celebration underscores the fact that girls are not only victims of challenges but also leaders and change-makers in their homes, schools, and communities.

‘Even in times of conflict, poverty, or hardship, girls continue to show strength, courage, and leadership, proving that their voices are vital to building peace and development,’ she said.

The First Lady added that every great nation begins with empowered girls who are taught to believe in their worth, pursue their purpose, and lead with courage.

‘Supporting girls on the front lines of a crisis means giving them access to quality education, healthcare, and leadership opportunities so they can rebuild and shape better societies,’ she said.

Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal also stressed that access to education and representation for girls is not a privilege but a fundamental right, expressing optimism that the voices and dreams of girls will continue to be heard and supported.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has taken further steps to modernize Nigeria’s capital market by integrating digital innovation into its operations.

This move is aimed at strengthening investor confidence and creating a more transparent, efficient, and accessible market environment.

Director General of the Commission, Dr. Emomotimi Agama, disclosed this during the 2025 Customer Service Week celebration held in Abuja with the theme ‘Building the Market of the Future, One Interaction at a Time.’

Dr. Agama said the Commission is committed to using technology as a tool to transform service delivery and ensure that the Nigerian capital market operates at global standards.

According to him, the SEC’s ongoing digital transformation is central to its broader goal of improving regulatory processes and enhancing stakeholder experience.

He explained that the Commission has made notable progress through initiatives such as the digitization of processes, deployment of new online service portals, and stronger engagement with market stakeholders via digital channels.

‘The digitization of our processes, the launch of new portals, and our enhanced engagement on social media are all steps in the right direction,’ Dr. Agama said. ‘They are designed to make our market more accessible, transparent, and user-friendly.’

The SEC chief stated that the reforms were introduced to simplify regulatory interactions, reduce bureaucracy, and foster a market system that is both responsive and accountable to investors and operators.

While acknowledging the role of technology in driving reform, Dr. Agama maintained that human connection remains at the heart of effective customer service. ‘Technology is only an enabler,’ he noted. ‘The heart of excellent service is the human connection-the ability to listen, understand, and provide solutions that make every stakeholder feel valued.’

He pledged that the Commission would sustain its investment in digital infrastructure, continuous staff training, and modern tools that enable frontline officers to deliver efficient and reliable service to investors.

Describing customer-facing staff as the ‘true heroes’ of the capital market, Dr. Agama said their work plays a crucial role in shaping investor perception and sustaining trust in the system.

He also restated the SEC’s vision of building a deep, vibrant, and technology-driven capital market founded on efficiency, innovation, and confidence.

‘Let every day be Customer Service Day at the Nigerian SEC and across our capital market,’ Dr. Agama stated. ‘Let us continue to build this market of the future, not with grand pronouncements alone, but with one successful interaction, one resolved complaint, and one satisfied stakeholder at a time.’

Nigeria’s quest for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains on a knife edge despite edging past Lesotho 2-1 on Friday – a result that keeps their qualification hopes alive but far from certain as the decisive Group C fixtures loom.

The Super Eagles were tested by a resilient Lesotho side, with captain William Troost-Ekong and debutant Akor Adams scoring to secure three crucial points.

However, the result made little impact on Nigeria’s position in the standings. They remain third in the group – one point behind South Africa and three adrift of leaders Benin Republic – making Tuesday’s clash against the Cheetahs a must-win encounter.

What Nigeria need to qualify for the 2026 World Cup

1. Beat Benin Republic by at least two goals

The Super Eagles must deliver a commanding performance when they face Benin Republic on Tuesday, October 14. Only a victory by two or more goals will give them a realistic chance of finishing top, with goal difference likely to decide the group’s outcome.

2. If South Africa slip against Rwanda

Nigeria’s fate does not rest solely in their hands. For Finidi George’s men to seal automatic qualification, South Africa must either draw or lose to Rwanda in their final fixture. A win for the Bafana Bafana would end Nigeria’s chances.

With only group winners guaranteed a direct ticket to the 2026 World Cup and the four best runners-up advancing to the playoffs, every goal and point now carries immense weight.

Friday’s hard-fought win in Lesotho has reignited belief, but the Super Eagles will need precision, determination, and a bit of luck to return to football’s biggest stage after missing out on Qatar 2022.