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    Building Nigeria’s Energy Workforce: Oceangate’s Local Content Commitment

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    As Nigeria’s oil and gas sector evolves, the conversation is increasingly focused on one critical question: how do we ensure that growth benefits Nigerians first? For Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas Limited, the answer lies in a deliberate and disciplined local content strategy.

    Prioritising Nigerian Talent

    From inception, Oceangate has placed Nigerian engineers, contractors, and service providers at the heart of its operations. Every project, from shallow-water prospecting to deepwater exploration, has been designed to maximize local participation, creating jobs, expanding skills, and strengthening the domestic supply chain.

    This approach has already translated into thousands of jobs and a nationwide network of contractors and service providers that benefit directly from Oceangate’s projects. By embedding local content policies into its DNA, the company is helping ensure that Nigeria’s oil and gas resources generate lasting economic value for citizens.

    Driving Skills Transfer

    Beyond immediate jobs, Oceangate is committed to building long-term expertise. Through training and skills transfer initiatives, young Nigerian professionals are gaining exposure to cutting-edge upstream operations. This prepares the next generation of energy leaders to compete not just locally, but globally.

    A Model for the Industry

    In an era when many companies outsource internationally, Oceangate has proven that local talent can deliver world-class results. Its model shows how Nigerian companies can scale, compete, and succeed internationally, all while prioritising domestic capacity building.

    Why It Matters

    The future of Nigeria’s oil and gas industry depends on more than reserves and rigs — it depends on people. Oceangate’s commitment to local content ensures that the sector continues to create value long after the last barrel is produced.

    Breaking Cycles: How Oceangate is Turning Women and Youth into Community Builders

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    In many Nigerian communities, the story is often the same: women with incredible skills but no capital to grow a business, young people full of ideas but locked out of opportunities. For decades, this cycle of untapped potential has slowed progress at the grassroots. But in places like Benue, Nasarawa, and Delta, the tide is turning. Thanks to the Sam Empowerment Foundation (SEF), the CSR arm of Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas Limited, women and youth are not just learning trades — they are rewriting the economic story of their communities.

    Take Mary*, for instance. A single mother of three in Nasarawa, she once relied on seasonal farm work that barely kept food on the table. Through SEF’s vocational training program, she learned tailoring, received start-up support, and today runs a small shop that supports her family and employs two apprentices. “I no longer worry about my children’s school fees,” she says, smiling. Mary’s story is just one among thousands proving that empowerment is more than a word — it’s a lifeline.

    SEF has trained more than 7,500 women and young people in vocational skills ranging from tailoring to ICT, agriculture to welding. Beyond training, it ensures that beneficiaries are supported with start-up kits and small grants, helping them transition from learners to business owners. The result is a ripple effect that spreads across communities. Those who have been empowered not only earn a living for themselves but often create employment opportunities for others. Families become more stable, households are able to cover basic needs like food and education, and entire communities thrive from the presence of small but steady businesses that keep the local economy alive.

    Nigeria’s youth unemployment rate has been a long-standing challenge, while women often face structural barriers that prevent them from contributing fully to the economy. Oceangate’s approach doesn’t just provide handouts; it builds capacity and resilience. Grassroots empowerment ensures that development is sustainable. When young people and women are given tools to succeed, they don’t just improve their own lives — they become engines of progress in their communities.

    For Oceangate, this isn’t about corporate charity. It is about a business philosophy where oil and gas profits must fuel human progress. By investing in women and youth, Oceangate is investing in the backbone of society. And when that backbone is strong, entire communities rise.

    The transformation taking place in communities touched by SEF is a reminder of what is possible when corporations commit to inclusion. Every business started, every skill learned, and every young dream supported is proof that CSR can be both profitable and purposeful. Oceangate’s story is clear: when you empower women and youth, you don’t just break cycles of poverty — you build cycles of prosperity.

    NEISA 2025: Set to Drive National Renewal Through Entrepreneurship and Innovation

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    Organised by COA Media, NEISA 2025 will take place in November 2025, in Abuja, with the theme: “Entrepreneurship for National Renewal: Unlocking Inclusive Growth in an Era of Tough Choices.”

    Speaking ahead of the summit, Amb. Cletus Akhimien, Team Lead of NEISA 2025, noted that the event is designed as a movement to reposition Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape—driving job creation, inclusive growth, and national renewal.

    This groundbreaking summit will serve not only as a prestigious awards platform for excellence in business and leadership, but also as a transformational marketplace of ideas and opportunities, featuring:

    • Innovation Showcases – spotlighting groundbreaking solutions from emerging and established entrepreneurs.
    • Investor Pitch Labs – connecting startups and SMEs with potential investors, venture capitalists, and funding opportunities.
    • High-Level Dialogues – engaging thought leaders, policymakers, and business icons on strategies for national renewal.
    • Networking & Partnerships – fostering collaborations across sectors, industries, and regions.

    Speaking on the vision behind the initiative, the organisers emphasized:

    “In these tough times, we rise. We build. We innovate. We transform! NEISA 2025 is not just an event, it is a movement. A call to action for Nigerians to embrace entrepreneurship as the most sustainable path to inclusive growth, economic resilience, and national transformation.”

    With Nigeria at a critical juncture, NEISA 2025 is positioned as a catalyst for shaping a new economic narrative, anchored on creativity, productivity, and global competitiveness.

    • Participation & Opportunities
    • Entrepreneurs, innovators, industry leaders, and policymakers across Nigeria and beyond are invited to be part of this historic gathering.

    Registration for participants and volunteers is currently open via the official platform; https://neisa.coamedia.com.ng

    In addition, sponsorship and partnership opportunities are open to forward-thinking brands and organisations ready to align with this transformational agenda.

    📞 For enquiries, sponsorship, and partnerships, please contact:
    +234 803 661 5288 | +234 703 898 4856
    📧 neisa@coamedia.com.ng

    NEISA 2025 Where Ideas Meet Investment, and Entrepreneurs Become Nation-Builders.

    Bagos’ Scholarship Scheme Yields Results as Beneficiaries Inducted as Medical Laboratory Scientists

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    The Hon. Dachung Bagos Scholarship Scheme has continued to yield remarkable results as some of its beneficiaries were officially inducted as Medical Laboratory Scientists by the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria (MLSCN). The induction ceremony was held at the Multi-Purpose Hall of the College of Medical Sciences, University of Jos Teaching Hospital (JUTH), Lamingo.

    The scholarship scheme, introduced by Hon. Dachung Bagos, is a fully funded educational support program covering students from their first year until graduation. It has provided opportunities for many young people in secondary, tertiary, and postgraduate studies.

    In its second cohort of medical inductees, the scholarship scheme celebrated Esther Atong (MLS), Ibrahim Mamman Pate (MLS), Hannatu Agwom (MLS), and Nyam Choji (MLS). Several other beneficiaries are also expected to complete their studies and graduate in the coming academic session.

    The initiative is widely recognized as one of the most comprehensive educational interventions by a public leader in Plateau State, as it cuts across different academic disciplines while ensuring inclusivity and equity.

    In their joint statement, the new Medical Laboratory Scientists expressed deep appreciation to Hon. Bagos for the life-changing opportunity. They described the scholarship as a rare intervention that has given them a future filled with possibilities.

    The beneficiaries also noted that the program reflects Bagos’ passion for empowering the next generation, even beyond his tenure in office, proving that true leadership extends into service to humanity.

    Speaking through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dafwam Yakubu Danja, Hon. Dachung Bagos reaffirmed his commitment to supporting education, stressing that investing in young people is the surest way to build a stronger society and a better Nigeria.

    Hon. Felix Gonung Defies Distractions, Delivers Ambitious 18-Point Agenda for 2025

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    From the very beginning, the administration declared a clear intention: to govern with deliberate and serious action. This isn’t just a slogan; it’s a commitment being visibly fulfilled across the Local Government Area.

    Recent attempts to tarnish the Chairman’s reputation through media campaigns are nothing but the handiwork of mischief-makers who prioritize selfish interests over the collective progress of Pankshin LGA. Let their words be drowned out by the sound of progress. This administration will not be distracted. The focus remains laser-sharp on delivering the mandate given by the people.

    The proof is in the projects. The Council has unveiled an incredibly comprehensive and ambitious plan for the 2025 fiscal year, touching every critical aspect of development from infrastructure and the economy to education, security, and sports.

    Here is a look at the ongoing projects that are shaping the future of Pankshin LGA:

    Infrastructure & Economic Development

    1. Road Remodeling: Remodeling of 11km road shoulder from MNS to Good Shephard School.
    2. Market Modernization: Clearance, grading, and construction of 100 open shops in the Tomatoe/Vegetable Market.
    3. Flood Control: Construction of drainage from Hily Cross to Monday Market Junction.
    4. Water Revolution: Rehabilitation of 50 boreholes across the 20 wards of the local government.
    5. Advanced Drainage: Construction of drainage in Kajon GRA Phase 2.
    6. A Market for the Future: Acquisition of 140 plots of land for the construction of a modern market in Jannaret.
    7. Critical Access: Construction of a box culvert in Vel.
    8. Improved Infrastructure: Construction of culvert adjacent to the Police Station, Pankshin.

    Governance, Heritage & Public Services

    1. Honouring Tradition: Renovation of the Palace of the Lankang District Head.
    2. Boosting Education: Refurbishing of a Hilux vehicle for the Education Department to ease school supervision.
    3. Official Operations: Acquisition of 3 cars for the Deputy Chairman, Council Secretary, and Leader of the Legislative Arm.
    4. Efficient Government: Repair of 3 vehicles to ease the operations of the Local Government.
    5. Power Restoration: Repair of transformer in Chalim (Angwan Karya).

    Security & Education

    1. Investing in Future Leaders: Renovation of LEA Primary School Wuselli.
    2. Bolstering Security: Acquisition of 3 motorcycles for vigilante groups to enhance security surveillance.

    Sports Excellence: Making Pankshin Proud

    1. Champions on the World Stage: The Council successfully sponsored the Under 13 team, winners of the Caleb Mutfwang Under 13 Cup. They represented the state at the North Central zone and won the cup! In a historic achievement, these young ambassadors *will soon be flying to Europe to showcase their talents* to the glory of God and Pankshin LGA.

    This list is more than just projects; it’s a blueprint for a more prosperous, secure, and proud Pankshin. It demonstrates a government that is working tirelessly from every angle to improve the lives of its citizens.

    The Chairman’s message is clear: actions will always speak louder than words. While others engage in empty talk, this administration is building, repairing, acquiring, and winning. The momentum is unstoppable, and the future of Pankshin has never looked brighter.

    Plateau State Targets Zero Malaria with 2025 Chemoprevention Campaign

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    Plateau State has reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating malaria as the State Malaria Elimination Programme (SME-P), in partnership with the Malaria Consortium, launched the 2025 Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention campaign with a media parley, celebrating its recognition as the top-performing programme in the country while promoting awareness and community participation.

    Addressing attendees, Dr. Nicholas Ba’amlong highlighted a steady and encouraging decline in malaria prevalence across the state. He reported that rates have dropped from approximately 21% several years ago to around 15% in the most recent, yet-to-be-published assessment.

    Dr. Ba’amlong described this progress as highly significant. He expressed optimism that with consistent interventions, the state could soon achieve an annual prevalence of less than 10%, bringing its elimination goal within reach.

    Nurse Ndak Zuhumnan Andarawus, SMEP Programme Manager, detailed the SMC process. The preventive treatment is administered to children aged 3-59 months during the rainy season from June to October.

    The 2025 campaign aims to reach over 963,000 children across all 17 local governments. To achieve this, SMEP has recruited more than 12,000 personnel, including community drug distributors and town announcers.

    Andarawus assured parents of the medication’s safety, noting it is WHO-tested. He emphasized that trained health workers are always on hand to manage any potential side effects.

    Dr. Mbwas Mashor, representing Dr. Maxwell Kolawole, Western Central Africa Program Director for Malaria Consortium, revealed that SMC has reached nearly one million children in the state annually since 2021. The intervention showed immediate results, with prevalence dropping after the first year.

    He noted that hospitals across the state are already reporting a drastic decline in severe malaria admissions among children. This confirms that SMC, combined with other health efforts, is saving lives and strengthening community prevention.

    Dr. Mafwanlal Bunan Masok, Director of Public Health, underscored the vital role of the Malaria Consortium. Their support has been critical in reducing the burden of malaria for the most vulnerable group: children under five

    A Social and Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) consultant emphasized the media’s vital role in raising awareness and combating misinformation. Media platforms are essential for encouraging caregivers to accept the free, life-saving drugs for their children.

    Kachallom Gyang emphasized that safeguarding is vital in malaria interventions, ensuring children and vulnerable adults are protected through strict policies, community awareness, data protection, and equal treatment, with offenders facing dismissal when cases are reported.

    In a resident’s testimony, Deborah Ababatunde praised the SMC drugs as the best prevention method. She confirmed that many children have remained malaria-free since its introduction and advised all mothers to ensure their children participate.

    Hajiya Riyan Adamu Charity Foundation Enroll 300 Jos North Residents into Health Insurance Scheme

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    The Hajiya Riyan Adamu Charity Foundation has partnered with the Plateau State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (PLASCHEMA). Their joint initiative provides free health insurance for over 300 residents of Jos North.

     

    The program is sponsored by Hon. Dr. Adamu Aliyu, the Member representing Jos North-North. It is specifically aimed at improving access to affordable healthcare for the community.

    Foundation Coordinator Aliyu Muwaffak Gudus explained the support was initiated to ease the burden of healthcare costs. He stated that many in Jos North struggle to afford basic drugs, which prompted this intervention.

    Gudus added that the initiative targets grassroots communities where people often lack proper healthcare access. He said it reflects a genuine commitment to ensuring vulnerable residents can get medical care.

    Josh Dagean, Head of Enrollment at PLASCHEMA, disclosed the foundation purchased premiums worth ₦12,000 per beneficiary. This covers a full year of enrollment, giving access to highly subsidized healthcare services.

    Dagean noted the beneficiaries include people with diabetes, sickle cell disease, disabilities, and pregnant women. Enrollees will pay only 10% of medical costs, with the insurance covering the remaining 90%.

    Hon. Dr. Adamu Aliyu presented insurance cards to beneficiaries at the unveiling. He said his background as a civil servant helped him appreciate how health insurance can reduce suffering.

    He praised the health insurance program, introduced under former Governor Simon Bako Lalong. He also commended efforts to strengthen the initiative through legislation.

    Godwin Okechukwu from the Forum of Desk Officers for Health Insurance advised beneficiaries to use the scheme responsibly. He clarified that it excludes cases like domestic violence injuries or accidents from risky adventures.

    Mrs. Joe Bukar, wife of a Plateau State Assembly member, applauded the foundation and Hon. Dr. Adamu Aliyu. She called on other lawmakers to emulate this example in addressing healthcare needs.

    Beneficiary Saratu Babaji, Women Leader of Angwan Rogo/Rimi, praised Hajiya Riyan Adamu as kind and devoted. She described both her and Dr. Aliyu as exemplary leaders.

    Another beneficiary, Sani Aliwal Hassan, commended the program as a welcome idea. He urged other stakeholders to emulate the gesture to support the needy in society.

    Plateau United Players Elect Albert Hilary as New Captain

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    Plateau United forward, Albert Hilary, has been voted by his teammates as the new captain of the club ahead of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season.

    Hilary, who has been a key figure in the team’s attack, will now lead the club both on and off the pitch. His appointment reflects the confidence his teammates and coaching crew have in his leadership abilities.

    The announcement was met with excitement among supporters of the Jos-based side, with many fans taking to social media to congratulate the striker. They described his elevation as well-deserved, citing his commitment and consistency for the team.

    Club officials also praised Hilary’s influence in the dressing room, stressing that his leadership will be crucial as Plateau United targets a strong campaign in the new NPFL season.

    With Hilary now wearing the captain’s armband, fans are optimistic that his leadership will inspire the team to greater success in the coming months

    DSS Arraigns 9 Suspects Linked to Plateau, Benue Killings

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    The Federal Government, through the Department of State Services (DSS), has filed multiple charges against nine suspects accused of complicity in recent deadly attacks that rocked Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State and parts of Plateau State.

    According to separate charges lodged before the Federal High Court in Abuja, the violent attacks left over 40 persons dead, many others injured, and hundreds displaced across the two states.

    The DSS, in one of the charges, alleged that the June 13, 2025, attacks in Abinsi and Yelwata villages of Benue State were carried out by Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi, both from Awe LGA of Nasarawa State, in connivance with other suspects still at large.

    Those also fingered in the Benue attacks include Musa Beniyon, Bako Malowa, Ibrahim Tunga, Asara Ahnadu, Legu Musa, Adamu Yale, Boddi Ayuba, and Pyeure Damina. They were listed in a charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/449/2025, endorsed by the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Muhammad Abubakar.

    The suspects were accused of committing offences punishable under sections 12 and 29 of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022.

    In a separate three-count charge, two other suspects, Terkende Ashuwa and Amos Alede, both of Guma LGA, were accused of carrying out reprisal attacks in Abinsi and Yelwata. The charge, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/448/2025, stated that they participated in a meeting which led to terrorist acts that caused the destruction of property and the economic loss of 12 cattle in Ukpam village.

    The DSS further alleged that in July 2025, the duo conspired in Daudu town, Guma LGA, to carry out terrorist activities, receiving material assistance, including AK-47 rifles and locally made guns from one Alhaji Uba, in contravention of section 13 of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act.

    Also, a 32-year-old woman, Halima Haliru Umar from Faskari LGA of Katsina State, was slammed with a four-count charge of terrorism. She was accused of transporting 302 rounds of AK-47 live ammunition to bandits and concealing information about a suspected gunrunner, Alhaji Sani.

    In another charge, a 75-year-old man, Nanbol Tali, and Timnan Manjo were accused of illegally buying and selling two locally fabricated AK-47 rifles for N3 million. They also allegedly purchased revolvers from a supplier to resell to bandits, in violation of the Firearms Act 2024.

    Similarly, one Danjuma Antu of Jos North LGA was arraigned on a five-count charge for unlawful possession of two locally fabricated pistols, while Silas Iduh Oloche of Agatu LGA, Benue State, faced six counts for possessing 18 firearms (grenades) and 683 rounds of live ammunition.

    The DSS noted that all the offences contravened sections of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022, and the Firearms Act, 2024. No date has yet been fixed for the arraignment of the defendants.

    SOURCE: VANGUARD NGR

    BEWDA Gyel District Strengthens Leadership with Newly Elected Executives

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    The Berom Women Development Association (BEWDA), Gyel District, has taken another bold step in strengthening women’s leadership by electing a fresh team of executives to pilot its affairs. The election was conducted peacefully, with members showing unity and commitment to the association’s goals.

    At the top of the new executive team is Mary Peter, who emerged as the Chairperson. She will be supported by Jummai Monday, elected as Deputy Chairperson, as both leaders are expected to provide direction and mobilize women for greater community impact.

    The secretariat of the association is now in the hands of Sarah Kandi, who was elected Secretary, and Helen Joshua, who takes over as Assistant Secretary. Members believe their roles will be key in ensuring effective documentation and smooth coordination of activities.

    For financial management, Regina Gyang Sambo was elected Treasurer, while Simi Stephen will serve as Financial Secretary. Both are tasked with maintaining transparency and accountability in handling the district’s resources.

    In the area of public engagement, three women emerged as Public Relations Officers: Eunice Botrus (PRO I), Ruth Jonathan (PRO II), and Paulina Dauda Kangyang (PRO III). They will drive communication, advocacy, and information-sharing within and beyond the district.

    The peaceful polls were widely commended by stakeholders and members, who described the process as a reflection of BEWDA’s democratic culture and commitment to fairness.

    With this new leadership, Gyel District is expected to push forward BEWDA’s broader vision of promoting peace, unity, empowerment, and cultural identity among Berom women, while also contributing to the development of the larger community.

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