President Tinubu Approves ₦70 Billion for TETFund Mini-Grid Solar Project to Power 12 Tertiary Institutions

 President Tinubu Approves ₦70 Billion for TETFund Mini-Grid Solar Project to Power 12 Tertiary Institutions

President Bola Tinubu has approved a ₦70 billion funding allocation for the implementation of a Mini-Grid Solar Power Project under the 2025 intervention cycle of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund). 

The initiative is designed to provide renewable, sustainable, and reliable electricity to selected tertiary institutions across Nigeria, addressing one of the sector’s most persistent challenges—unreliable power supply.

The Chairman of TETFund Board of Trustees, Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari, disclosed the approval during the 2025 TETFund National Town Hall Meeting held in Abuja, attended by government officials, Vice-Chancellors, Provosts, Rectors, and representatives of academic staff unions. 

The project will initially cover 12 institutions, including Nigerian Army University in Biu, Borno State; Northwest University, Kano; Ambrose Alli University, Edo State; Alvan Ikoku University of Education, Owerri, Imo State; and Lagos State University, among others.

Masari emphasized that President Tinubu is deeply committed to solving the erratic power supply issues that have long hampered teaching, research, and innovation in Nigerian tertiary institutions. 

The solar mini-grids will enable campuses to operate independently of the unreliable national grid, reducing energy costs while fostering a conducive environment for academic excellence and technological advancement.

The project is central to TETFund’s broader strategy, which focuses on transforming tertiary education into hubs of innovation and productivity, supporting transparency and impact assessment, and promoting research, technology, and entrepreneurship. 

Under Tinubu’s "Renewed Hope Agenda," TETFund has already sponsored thousands of scholarships and constructed critical infrastructure like lecture theatres, laboratories, libraries, information technology centres, and student hostels nationwide.

TETFund’s Executive Secretary, Arc. Sonny Echono, highlighted that the solar power project is part of a larger push towards energy sustainability across Nigerian campuses. 

He noted that over ₦200 billion from alternative funding sources has been mobilized to complement TETFund’s investment, reflecting strong government resolve to end the power crisis in educational institutions.Echono lauded the president’s efforts in preventing the reduction of the education tax from 3% to 2.5%, safeguarding crucial funds for the sector. 

Additionally, the fund is facilitating the construction of new hostels under the Renewed Hope Hostels program and plans to introduce campus electric vehicle transport systems to improve student mobility and reduce costs.

This ₦70 billion solar mini-grid project marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s education sector, promising to reduce dependency on fossil fuels, lower carbon emissions, and provide uninterrupted power essential for learning, research, and innovation.

With Tinubu’s approval, Nigeria’s tertiary institutions are on the path to becoming more energy-secure, innovation-driven hubs that equip graduates with the skills and knowledge to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economic development. 

The project exemplifies a visionary approach to addressing infrastructural challenges while advancing sustainable development goals in education.

Nigeria’s commitment to renewable energy and technological advancement within its educational system is expected to yield lasting benefits, creating a foundation for future generations to thrive academically and professionally.

Skip to content Home FCSC Unveils Strategic Plan After 75years, Adopt CBT for the 2025 Promotion Exams David PeterDavid Peter Agency and Ministry, News, Policies, Politics, Stories September 17, 2025 0 Comments Spread the love FCSC unveils strategic plan after 75years. To adopt CBT for the 2025 promotion exams The Federal Civil Service Commission has unveiled its first strategic plan 2026-2030 after 75years of its establishment. The Commission will also be using a Computer Based Test (CBT) for all its promotion exams starting from this year’s 2025 promotion exercise. The Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Tunji Olaopa disclosed this during the week at the Commission’s strategic plan stakeholder validation workshop held at Abuja Continental Hotel, Abuja. He stated that the deployment of technology to improve the performance and HR service delivery process of the Commission is sacrosanct. He added that CBT adoption among other ICT-enabled processes was to ensure transparency and accountability in the operations of the Commission. He explained that the current move was borne out of the urgent need to reposition the organization, based on the charge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu gave the reconstituted 10th Commission on 13 December 2023 during its inauguration. He also added that the Commission undertook a rapid assessment of the FCSC as the basis for developing the repositioning plan, which is being implemented. Olaopa, however said that the repositioning plan was packaged without a rigorous diagnostic research, systematic stakeholder engagement, and a well-grounded theory of change, which created a significant gaps. Hence, the need for the current strategic planning to drive FCSC transformation in line with 21st-century governance and management principles. “It therefore became obvious to us one and a half years into the implementation of the FCSC repositioning plan, that the plan, as roadmap and an institutional response to the President’s charge to us, had significant gaps. Gaps, in terms of details of evidence-based concrete strategies, change management programmes and a carefully designed projects for a more reassuring transformation journey”. On CBT, Olaopa said that this mode will make promotion examinations more transparent and accountable, in line with ongoing reforms in the Federal Civil Service; saying that previous year’s promotion examination were conducted as a written test requiring workers from across the country to travel to Abuja, with all the associated inconveniences. According to him, meritocratic and transparent implementation of the federal character principle guidelines for the representation of women and persons with disabilities (PWDs) will be adopted. In attendance with his Hon. Commissioners, he explained that the Commission is working in collaboration with the Office of the Heads of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) to deepen the reforms and to institutionalise performance-based systems that link promotions and career progression to key performance indicators (KPIs), citizen feedback mechanisms, and a revised annual appraisal report in federal service promotion exercises and career management; as well as set in motion a series of strategic processes that will transform FCSC into a critical HRM institution that will help transform federal public service and also, to achieve a one trillion dollar economy by year 2030 as captured within the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In her goodwill message, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, represented by Dr. Deborah Oyindamola Ninma Odoh (Perm. Sec.-Service Policies and Strategies Office); she said civil service is the engine room for policy formulation and implementation in Nigeria. She eulogized the Commission on its strategic planning validation and a deliberate decision to engage stakeholders; which she said, it reflected a deep appreciation of the value of inclusiveness, collaboration and shared ownership of the reforms within the federal public service. In his address, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ndiomu Ebiogeh Phillip urged stakeholders not only to make the plan aspirational but implementable, practical as well as impactful. He disclosed that the goal of the strategic plan is to reposition the FCSC as a forward-thinking, people-centered, and performance-driven institution, one that is fully equipped to meet the challenges of today and anticipate the needs of tomorrow. In his short remark, Director General of Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), Dr. Dasuki Ibrahim Arabi advised the FCSC leadership to make sure that every staff member in the Commission understands the need to contribute and key into the strategic plan, saying that in this way, everybody will have a sense of ownership of the strategic plan. The event was divided into group sessions led by the lead Consultant, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, and fellow Consultant, Dr. Bert Odiaka; with another Consultant, Prof. Dele Olowu, presented a virtual overview of the strategic planning validation from Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Participants at the validation event cut across current and retired permanent secretaries, civil society organisations (CSOs), law enforcement agencies, officials from Ministry of Finance and also, Budget, and organized private sectors among others.

 

Skip to content

FCSC Unveils Strategic Plan After 75years, Adopt CBT for the 2025 Promotion Exams

• David Peter
 
• Agency and Ministry, News, Policies, Politics, Stories 
 
• September 17, 2025
 
•  0 Comments

Spread the love

FCSC unveils strategic plan after 75years. To adopt CBT for the 2025 promotion exams

 

The Federal Civil Service Commission has unveiled its first strategic plan 2026-2030 after 75years of its establishment. The Commission will also be using a Computer Based Test (CBT) for all its promotion exams starting from this year’s 2025 promotion exercise.

 

The Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Tunji Olaopa disclosed this during the week at the Commission’s strategic plan stakeholder validation workshop held at Abuja Continental Hotel, Abuja. He stated that the deployment of technology to improve the performance and HR service delivery process of the Commission is sacrosanct. He added that CBT adoption among other ICT-enabled processes was to ensure transparency and accountability in the operations of the Commission.

He explained that the current move was borne out of the urgent need to reposition the organization, based on the charge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu gave the reconstituted 10th Commission on 13 December 2023 during its inauguration.

 

He also added that the Commission undertook a rapid assessment of the FCSC as the basis for developing the repositioning plan, which is being implemented. Olaopa, however said that the repositioning plan was packaged without a rigorous diagnostic research, systematic stakeholder engagement, and a well-grounded theory of change, which created a significant gaps. Hence, the need for the current strategic planning to drive FCSC transformation in line with 21st-century governance and management principles.

“It therefore became obvious to us one and a half years into the implementation of the FCSC repositioning plan, that the plan, as roadmap and an institutional response to the President’s charge to us, had significant gaps. Gaps, in terms of details of evidence-based concrete strategies, change management programmes and a carefully designed projects for a more reassuring transformation journey”.

 

On CBT, Olaopa said that this mode will make promotion examinations more transparent and accountable, in line with ongoing reforms in the Federal Civil Service; saying that previous year’s promotion examination were conducted as a written test requiring workers from across the country to travel to Abuja, with all the associated inconveniences.

 

According to him, meritocratic and transparent implementation of the federal character principle guidelines for the representation of women and persons with disabilities (PWDs) will be adopted.

 

In attendance with his Hon. Commissioners, he explained that the Commission is working in collaboration with the Office of the Heads of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) to deepen the reforms and to institutionalise performance-based systems that link promotions and career progression to key performance indicators (KPIs), citizen feedback mechanisms, and a revised annual appraisal report in federal service promotion exercises and career management; as well as set in motion a series of strategic processes that will transform FCSC into a critical HRM institution that will help transform federal public service and also, to achieve a one trillion dollar economy by year 2030 as captured within the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

 

In her goodwill message, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, represented by Dr. Deborah Oyindamola Ninma Odoh (Perm. Sec.-Service Policies and Strategies Office); she said civil service is the engine room for policy formulation and implementation in Nigeria. She eulogized the Commission on its strategic planning validation and a deliberate decision to engage stakeholders; which she said, it reflected a deep appreciation of the value of inclusiveness, collaboration and shared ownership of the reforms within the federal public service.

 

In his address, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ndiomu Ebiogeh Phillip urged stakeholders not only to make the plan aspirational but implementable, practical as well as impactful. He disclosed that the goal of the strategic plan is to reposition the FCSC as a forward-thinking, people-centered, and performance-driven institution, one that is fully equipped to meet the challenges of today and anticipate the needs of tomorrow.

In his short remark, Director General of Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), Dr. Dasuki Ibrahim Arabi advised the FCSC leadership to make sure that every staff member in the Commission understands the need to contribute and key into the strategic plan, saying that in this way, everybody will have a sense of ownership of the strategic plan.

 

The event was divided into group sessions led by the lead Consultant, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, and fellow Consultant, Dr. Bert Odiaka; with another Consultant, Prof. Dele Olowu, presented a virtual overview of the strategic planning validation from Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

 

Participants at the validation event cut across current and retired permanent secretaries, civil society organisations (CSOs), law enforcement agencies, officials from Ministry of Finance and also, Budget, and organized private sectors among others.

President Tinubu initiates a grassroots development initiative following the NEC's approval of the Renewed Hope Ward Programme.

 President Tinubu initiates a grassroots development initiative following the NEC's approval of the Renewed Hope Ward Programme.

A significant aspect of the program involves recognizing at least 1,000 economically active individuals in each ward, who will receive support to enhance local manufacturing and business operations.

On Thursday, President Tinubu presided over National Economic Council (NEC) session at the State House in Abuja. During the meeting, he received the backing of the Governors for the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme. This comprehensive initiative is designed to distribute recent macroeconomic benefits across Nigeria's 8,809 wards.

The program outlined at the NEC meeting, spearheaded by the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, aims to hasten local development by invigorating economic activities, alleviating poverty, and enhancing job opportunities and food security within communities.

After the meeting, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State told journalists that the President's involvement marks a significant change in strategy, aiming to ensure that the achievements at the federal level translate into tangible benefits at the local level.

He said, “We just concluded the National Economic Council meeting with Mr. President in attendance. The President came up with a programme that will fast-track the process of this additional money creating a bigger impact on Nigerians by making sure that it trickles down to the grassroots.

“The country is earning more money now, the subnational governments are also earning more money.

“A committee will be set up involving the Surveyor-General of the Federation and subnational governments to work together for the early actualisation of these projects.”

Reflecting these views, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, highlighted that the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme marks a historic advancement in the government's reform plans.

He said, “Having stabilized the macro economy, the next step is to drill down development to the lowest levels. We believe this will generate employment, reduce poverty, enhance food security, and even enhance social protection.”

Bagudu clarified that the foundation of the program lies in Chapter Two of Nigeria’s Constitution, which obliges every level of government to foster prosperity and encourage a self-sustaining economy.

Bagudu disclosed that a major aspect of the program involves pinpointing at least 1,000 economically active individuals in each ward. These individuals will receive support to enhance local production and boost commercial activities.

#ababajiks 

#NigeriaRising 

#RenewedHope 

#PBAT

 

FG Set To Pay N81bn N-Power Backlog — Senate Confirms

The Nigerian Senate has confirmed that the Federal Government is preparing to pay the ₦81 billion owed to N-Power beneficiaries as backlog of allowances from 2022 and 2023.

This follows a closed-door meeting facilitated by the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, involving government officials, aggrieved N-Power beneficiaries, and their legal representative, Abba Hikima.

Speaking after the meeting, Senator Barau described the dialogue as productive, stating that the Federal Government has begun arrangements to clear the debt.

“The beneficiaries came to seek our intervention. I contacted the Minister, and he responded swiftly. After our discussion, they were assured that the payment is being processed,” Barau said.

“In light of the government’s commitment, they have agreed to suspend legal action.”

He emphasized that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, no citizen would be denied their rightful entitlements.

Also addressing the issue, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, clarified that the arrears stemmed from allowances captured in the 2022 and 2023 budgets but not funded, and were excluded from the 2024 and 2025 budgets.

“We secured an approval through the service-wide vote late last year, and now we’re working to activate payment within the current fiscal year,” the minister said.

“We are committed to resolving this matter before the end of the year.”

Legal counsel for the N-Power beneficiaries, Abba Hikima, confirmed the suspension of planned litigation, stating that assurances were given that payments would commence once the 2025 budget implementation begins.

Chairman of the N-Power beneficiaries, Kehinde James, thanked the Senate and relevant ministries for their intervention, expressing hope that the long-awaited funds would soon be disbursed.

The N-Power scheme, part of Nigeria’s broader social investment programme, has faced repeated challenges in funding, leading to protests and legal threats from affected participants in recent years.

We’re Removing All Bottlenecks To Improve Food And Agric Production In Nigeria, Says President Tinubu To Brazilian Leader

 

Skip to content

We’re Removing All Bottlenecks To Improve Food And Agric Production In Nigeria, Says President Tinubu To Brazilian Leader

• David Peter
 
• News, Policies, Politics, Stories 
 
• July 5, 2025
 
•  0 Comments

Spread the love

President Bola Tinubu has assured that all bottlenecks hindering the realisation of the agricultural sector’s potential, including livestock production, will be removed to enable food sovereignty and export.

In a bilateral meeting held at the Copacabana Forte with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva and some members of both countries’ cabinets, President Tinubu noted that bureaucracy contributes to delays in realising the agricultural sector’s potential.

The President informed the Brazilian leader and delegation that Nigeria was already undergoing reforms to reposition the economy for global competitiveness, particularly in agriculture, where it already has a competitive advantage.

President Tinubu stated that all technicalities in agreements between the two countries will be streamlined and fast-tracked in trade, aviation, energy transition, food and agricultural development, mining, and natural resources exploration.

The President stated that Brazil’s research and development services had been exemplary for most countries, with the country being one of the highest producers of food and agricultural products.

On livestock farming, President Tinubu highlighted the efforts of his administration to boost investments in poultry, cattle rearing, and fisheries, adding that the blue economy also holds potential for long-term partnerships between Nigeria and Brazil.

He said Nigeria was ready for a strong partnership and immediate action to stimulate food production.

The President said the subnationals have a pivotal role in food and animal production in Nigeria by complementing the federal government’s efforts to use agriculture as a significant source of employment and resource mobilisation.

President Lula assured that all agreements with Nigeria would be regularised, and the MOUs would be updated and signed without delay during President Tinubu’s next visit.

Da Silva noted that the lingering bureaucracy between the two countries must be removed to achieve quick results, adding that Brazil’s research and development institutions will collaborate with Nigeria to enhance livestock farming.

The Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, stated that President Tinubu had consistently insisted on food security for Nigeria, and the mandate would be actualised through local and global partnerships.

Kyari noted that Nigeria already had a competitive advantage in fertiliser production that could easily be enhanced.

The Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, highlighted three areas of partnership with Brazil, including health and disease management, sanitary services, and research into genetic materials and new breeds.

The governors of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia; Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Niger State, Mohammed Umar Bago; Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori; and Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, attended the bilateral meeting.

The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, stated that the sub-nationals would support the federal government’s framework to revamp the agricultural sector.

Abiodun noted that both leaders’ decision to include a business forum during President Tinubu’s state visit to the country will inject fresh ideas and resources, enabling quick results in turning around Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, and the Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Mohammed Mohammed, also participated in the bilateral meeting.