In a move to foster skills acquisition and promote economic empowerment, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Education Secretariat through the Department of Mass Education has flagged off a one-week free holiday vocational and entrepreneurship training program.

The program is a collaborative initiative of the FCT Department of Mass Education, The Potter’s Wheel Foundation, and the Nigerian Non-Governmental Association for Literacy Support Services (NOGALSS).

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, the FCT Mandate Secretary for Education, Dr. Danlami Hayyo emphasized the Importance of skills acquisition and entrepreneurship in today’s world describing it as imperative to be self reliant , empowered and resourceful.

He highlighted the Wike- led FCT Administration’s commitment to championing the Renewed Hope Agenda adding that the initiative is a critical strategy for reducing unemployment and building resilience among Abuja residents through practical skill acquisition and entrepreneurship training.

He commended the Department on the synergy between the government and non-governmental organizations noting that it will further empower the people of the FCT with skills and knowledge that lead to viable income-generating opportunities.

He urged the participants to fully utilize the opportunity, network actively and apply themselves diligently to the various training sessions.

In her welcome address,Dr. Favour Edem -Nse,the Director, FCT Department of Mass Education said,the training aligns with Sustainable Development Goals ( SDGs) and contributes significantly to reducing the number of out- of- school children, unskilled youths and unemployed women in the Federal Capital Territory.

She added that, the Department goal is not just to train but to guide participants towards becoming self – sufficient and successful entrepreneurs .

She noted that the one week free training program is a manifestation of the Department ‘s broader vision of literacy and lifelong learning.

She revealed that the Department in collaboration with The Potter’s Wheel Foundation and the Nigerian Non- Governmental Association for Literacy Support Services( NOGALSS) will train them hands on session in production of laundry soap,bleach , liquid soap, toilet and car wash , disinfectant,air freshener,snack among others as well as key entrepreneurship modules on Bookkeeping and financial management, marketing and branding with social media management.

She expressed her gratitude to the Mandate Secretary for Education and the Management for the massive support of the life changing opportunity program targeted at women,youths, children and other community residents to equip them with tools for economic self reliance .

The well attended program which drew partner organizations, staff of the Department of Mass Education and enthusiastic participants will run throughout the week with facilitators providing continued support beyond the training period.

A 28-year-old electrician, whose name has not been revealed, has been electrocuted in Oyo State at Eruwa in Ibarapa East of Oyo State.

The victim was electrocuted at the Odo Babaode area of the town.
The man was electrocuted on a high-tension cable belonging to the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC).

The incident occurred when the victim was trying to rectify an electrical fault on the active power lines without being shut down from the feeder.

The General Manager of Oyo State Fire Service, Mr Yemi Akinyinka, who confirmed the development, said a distress call was received by the agency Wednesday afternoon.
He said, “The distressed call was reported at 15:29hrs on Wednesday, 23rd April, 2025.

“The fire personnel led by PFS1 Peluola Babatunde quickly followed the caller and on arrival at the place, we met the victim already electrocuted, and all necessary precautionary measures were observed so as to safeguard the citizens within the vicinity.

“The man was recovered and handed over to a team of police from Eruwa police Station. The incident occurred when the victim (electrician) was trying to rectify an electrical fault on the active power lines without shutting down the feeder.”

In a remarkable demonstration of excellence in public communication, Hakama Sidi-Ali, spokesperson for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), was awarded the Outstanding Spokesperson (Banking Sector) for the second consecutive year at the 2025 National Spokespersons Awards, a statement from Dr Ibrahim Moddibo has disclosed.

According to the statement, the ceremony, held in Abuja Intercontinental Hotel, was part of the grand finale of the 2025 National Spokespersons’ Summit in Abuja.

Organized by the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in collaboration with Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), the publisher of PRNigeria and Spokespersons Digest, the awards aim to celebrate innovation and professionalism in public communication across both public and private sectors in Nigeria.

During the event, NIPR President Dr. Ike Neliaku and Hon. Rotimi Akintunde Jr., Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Media and Public Affairs, commended the award recipients for their exemplary standards in the field and encouraged them to maintain the qualities that garnered national recognition.

Sidi-Ali was lauded for her proactive communication strategies and her commitment to bridging the gap between the CBN and the Nigerian populace. Her significant role in countering misinformation regarding the potential introduction of N5,000 and N10,000 banknotes was particularly noteworthy, effectively calming public unrest and maintaining financial stability. Furthermore, her adept communication during Nigeria’s recent negotiations with the United States over newly imposed tariffs underscored her pivotal role in international economic diplomacy.

The award ceremony showcased a variety of individuals and institutions excelling in strategic communication and public affairs. This year’s event underlined the critical role of credible voices in shaping public perception, fostering institutional trust, and enhancing democratic accountability.

Among the other awardees, Mr. Olufemi Soneye of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) who received the “Distinguished Spokesperson (Oil and Gas)” award. Dr. Fabian Benjamin from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) was recognized as the “Outstanding Spokesperson (Education Sector).”

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) shone brightly throughout the event, with Mrs. Hadiza Umar winning “Outstanding Spokesperson (Digital Economy)” and Malam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi earning the title of “Most Supportive CEO to Spokespersons (Public Sector).”

In the security and enforcement category, Mr. Femi Babafemi of the NDLEA and ACP Muyiwa Adejobi of the Nigeria Police Force were acknowledged for their remarkable media presence and effective crisis communication, particularly during sensitive times.

Institutions were also celebrated for their contributions to media excellence. The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) clinched the award for “Best Corporate Spokesperson Team,” while Air Peace was honoured as the “Most Influential Corporate Voice.” Additionally, Unilorin’s Lukman Temitope Omoniyi was awarded for the “Best Corporate Share of Voice on Social Media,” highlighting the significance of digital platforms in branding.

Other notable recipients included Gombe State’s Malam Ismaila Uba Misili as “Outstanding State Government Spokesperson,” Sade Morgan of Nigerian Breweries as “Outstanding Corporate Spokesperson,” and Viola Graham Douglas of LAFARGE, recognised as the “Most Innovative Spokesperson in the Multinational Category.” LAFARGE’s CEO, Mr. Lolu Alde-Akinyemi, was also named “Most Supportive CEO to Spokespersons (Private Sector).”

With over 20 categories covered, including health, marine, hospitality, power, insurance, and crisis management, the awards emphasized the growing importance of public relations and strategic communication as essential components of governance and corporate reputation.

Segun McMedal, Chairman of the Planning Committee, praised winners and nominees for their vital roles in sustaining public trust and shaping national discourse. He urged all communicators to uphold the values of transparency, accountability, and professionalism.

Now in its fifth edition, the National Spokespersons Awards, previously known as the Spokespersons’ Communication Awards (SCA), continue to serve as a premier platform for recognizing impactful and professional public communication in Nigeria.

The ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including past and present Ministers of Information, such as Frank Nweke Jr., Lai Mohammed, Jerry Gana, and Labaran Maku, as well as the current Honorable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris.

The summit featured high-level discussions led by notable speakers, including former Ogun State Governor Chief Segun Osoba, Prof. Taiwo Oyedele, and other eminent figures in the field of communication, reflecting a collective commitment to enhancing public engagement standards in Nigeria.