Major Boost For Education Sector As VP Shettima Launches Dangote Foundation Scholarship Initiative

*Seeks more investment in education to reverse West Africa’s low human capital index

*Applauds Dangote’s ₦100bn annual education support scheme, visionary philanthropy

By: Our Reporter

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has flagged off the Aliko Dangote Foundation Education Scholarship Initiative, with a call for stakeholders to recommit to building a future where every Nigerian child can become the best version of themselves.

This is just as the President of the Foundation, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, unveiled a ₦100 billion annual education support programme aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s educational sector and expanding access to quality learning for young people nationwide.

The programme, projected to cost ₦1 trillion over the next ten years, will support students across multiple levels through a range of targeted schemes.

Speaking on Thursday in Lagos during the launch of the education scholarship scheme, the Vice President extolled Dangote’s philanthropic stride, saying education is a burden carried by those with the knowledge of its power to transform.

“Now is the time to recommit to building a future in which every Nigerian child has a fair shot at becoming the best version of themselves. Let us live our lives so that posterity will remember us not for the offices we held or the titles we bore. Posterity must remember us for the doors we opened and the lives we transformed,” he stated.

Senator Shettima implored the private sector and corporate entities to invest in education, insisting that they must consider themselves as stakeholders in the survival of Nigeria’s education system.

Noting that there was no better time than now to confront the “consequences of demographic acceleration,” VP Shettima said, “A youthful population is a global asset only when it is educated. Without education, it becomes a threat to itself and to the nation that houses it.

“We come from a difficult history. Formal education was once treated as an intrusion. It was seen as an affliction. It was seen as a scheme to estrange children from their heritage. The residue of that suspicion, the gap that misunderstanding created, still weighs heavily upon our national progress.”

The VP pointed out that, rather than expecting a miracle or mere rhetoric to close and erase the gap created by such misunderstanding, deliberate effort must be made “to end a needless cycle of failure that has persisted for far too long.”

This, he said, inspired President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to roll out bold and far-reaching reforms, including the introduction of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, NELFUND, to create equitable access to education for all under his watch.

“We strengthened UBEC to deepen basic education infrastructure and accountability. We expanded TETFUND’s intervention footprint to revitalise tertiary institutions. We accelerated our Technical and Vocational Education and Training programmes to reflect the needs of a new economy. We also mainstreamed digital learning as a core national priority,” he added.

The Vice President decried what he described as the “reality of West Africa as the region that now carries the burden of having the lowest Human Capital Index in the world,” stating that Nigeria must invest in education to reverse the trend.

“We must treat education as a survival strategy. This is why our administration treats the National Human Capital Development Programme as a national emergency. We are bringing states, development partners, the private sector and civil society together to reclaim our destiny,” he said

The VP described the Founder and President/CEO of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Dangote, as standing apart, saying “in a nation that has produced giants, he remains a colossus.

Applauding the 100 billion annual education support scheme, he said, “His (Dangote’s) philanthropy is not episodic. His philanthropy is structural. His philanthropy is generational. His philanthropy is visionary. He is not only the largest private employer of labour in Nigeria. He has also become the most consequential private investor in the rescue of our most critical sector, education,” he said.

Earlier, President of the Foundation, Alhaji Dangote, said the Foundation’s ₦100 billion annual education support programme will strengthen Nigeria’s educational sector and expand access to quality learning for young people nationwide, assuring that all beneficiaries will be selected through a transparent, merit-based process.

He further announced partnerships with NELFUND, NECO, WAEC, and other government agencies to ensure accountability and fairness in programme delivery, revealing that he has dedicated 25 percent of his personal wealth to the foundation, a commitment that will extend beyond his lifetime.

Also, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, described the initiative as one of the most comprehensive human capital development programmes in Nigeria’s history, which aligns with the Federal Government’s education reform agenda.

Dr. Alausa also noted that 25 percent of the scholarship slots will be reserved for persons living with disabilities, calling the gesture a “humane and inclusive approach.”

In her goodwill message, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, commended the foundation’s investment in education, saying the expanded scholarship opportunities—particularly in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)—would create new pathways for Nigerian children.

She described investment in girls’ education as one of the most powerful tools for societal progress.

Speaking on behalf of state governors, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu applauded Dangote’s commitment to the future of Nigerian youth.

He acknowledged that the Dangote Foundation has redefined philanthropy in Nigeria, just as he said state governments will work to ensure the success of the initiative, beginning with Lagos State, which has allocated 10 percent of its annual budget to education.

For his part, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, commended Dangote for the initiative, even as he encouraged him to continue championing efforts that improve the lives of Nigerians.

On his part, the Emir of Lafia and Chairman of the Steering Committee of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Justice Sidi Bage (rtd), pledged the committee’s dedication to ensuring the initiative’s success.

He noted that the long-term multiplier effect of the foundation’s education interventions would significantly strengthen Nigeria’s human capital over the next decade and beyond.

The high point of the event was the unveiling of the vision 2030 100 billion dollar logo of the Dangote Foundation.

Major Boost For Education Sector As VP Shettima Launches Dangote Foundation Scholarship Initiative

CUSTOMS COMPTROLLER GAMBO IYERE ALIYU WHO REJECTED $50,000 BRIBE TAKES HELM AT FOU ZONE A

The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service has witnessed a major transition as outgoing Comptroller , now Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu, formally handed over leadership to the new Customs Area Comptroller , Comptroller Gambo Iyere Aliyu. The handover ceremony, held on December 10, 2025, marked a notable moment for the Service’s anti-smuggling architecture as both senior officers outlined their visions for stronger enforcement and national economic protection.

In his valedictory remarks, ACG Shuaibu expressed deep gratitude to God and the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, dsm, fnipr,psc+ for the trust and support that enabled him to lead the Zone effectively. He described his seven-month tenure as both challenging and rewarding, noting that his mandate upon assumption of office on April 23, 2025 was to strengthen intelligence-driven operations within the Zone.

He reported remarkable achievements during his stewardship, driven by the resilience and professionalism of officers under his command. According to him, the Unit recorded 476 interceptions comprising 761 seizures valued at ₦10,051,812,208, including 23,000 bags of smuggled rice, 98 used vehicles, 2,350 kg of cannabis sativa, 1,820 jerry cans of PMS, 15 rifles, 4,841 rounds of ammunition, two industrial drones, 25 kg of methamphetamine, and four 50kg cylinders of explosives of Russian origin.He added that the Unit also transferred $20,000 in intercepted currencies to the EFCC, arrested 38 suspects, and handed over eight containers of expired pharmaceuticals valued at ₦7.5 billion. Beyond enforcement, the Unit recovered ₦419,202,458.85 from underpaid import duties through meticulous document checks and demand notices.

ACG Shuaibu called on officers to remain committed and extend full cooperation to his successor, expressing confidence that the structures he leaves behind will continue to thrive. He thanked his principal officers, patrol leaders, and the media for their support, describing his time at FOU Zone A as fulfilling and impactful.

In his response, Comptroller Gambo Iyere Aliyu expressed profound appreciation to the Comptroller-General and the NCS management team for the confidence reposed in him. He commended ACG Shuaibu for his exemplary leadership, pledging to consolidate the gains already recorded by the outgoing administration.

Comptroller Aliyu assured that he would uphold the vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs, focusing on enhanced intelligence-driven enforcement, strict discipline, strong stakeholder collaboration, and improved welfare for officers. Specifically, he will align with the Comptroller-General’s goals of modernizing customs processes, strengthening anti-smuggling efforts, improving trade facilitation, and building capacity.

He highlighted the strategic importance of FOU Zone A as a frontline enforcement formation responsible for suppressing smuggling and safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests. He emphasised that professionalism, accountability, and ethics would remain non-negotiable under his command, urging officers to uphold the core values of the Service.

According to him, operational activities will revolve around change management, compliance management, and reputational management—three pillars he considers essential for sustainable progress. Comptroller Aliyu also acknowledged the vital role of the media and pledged open, responsible engagement to ensure accurate dissemination of information.

The new Comptroller brings to the Unit an impressive record of service. Born in the United Kingdom over five decades ago, he has served the Nigeria Customs Service since 1991, rising meritoriously to the rank of Comptroller in 2024. His academic and professional development spans institutions in the UK and multiple international training bodies.

He is a Fellow of the Association of Counterterrorism and Security Professionals (USA), a Certified Threat Analyst, and a Physical Security Manager with extensive experience in enforcement, crisis management, and trade compliance. He has served across various Customs formations, including as Deputy Comptroller of Enforcement at Tin Can Island Port, where his team intercepted arms, drugs, and counterfeit pharmaceuticals. His unit earned the CGC’s commendation for rejecting a $50,000 bribe offer an incident that further cemented his reputation for integrity. His last posting was Area Comptroller Oyo/ Osun State Command. Comptroller Aliyu is happily married , plays golf and enjoys music, and adventure.

CUSTOMS COMPTROLLER GAMBO IYERE ALIYU WHO REJECTED $50,000 BRIBE TAKES HELM AT FOU ZONE A

At 30, NHRC Reaffirms Commitment to Protecting All Nigerians

By: Michael Mike

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding the rights of all Nigerians as it marks three decades of advocacy, accountability, and service.

Speaking at the NHRC @ 30 Civil Society and Human Rights Defenders Forum and Human Rights Expo, Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu highlighted the Commission’s achievements from monitoring detention facilities to shaping national policies on human rights.

Ojukwu stressed that NHRC has remained dedicated to protecting every Nigerian and strengthening its mandate for vulnerable groups.

He said: “As we mark thirty years, we must recommit ourselves to promoting, protecting, and enforcing human rights for all Nigerians, ensuring that every person, regardless of circumstance, can enjoy their rights fully.”

He highlighted key milestones, including national action plans, the National Preventive Mechanism, and leadership in West Africa. He said: “The NHRC has successfully implemented five consecutive National Action Plans and, for the first time in Nigeria, facilitated the adoption of the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights. We are now designated as the National Preventive Mechanism, strengthening our efforts to prevent torture across the country.”

Ojukwu emphasized the indispensable role of civil society and human rights defenders in the Commission’s work.

“Civil society organisations and human rights defenders have been the backbone of human rights protection in Nigeria. Your courage, advocacy, and relentless commitment have ensured that no violation is ignored and that the NHRC remains accountable and effective,” he said.

He stressed the importance of addressing modern threats to human rights, including technology, climate, and governance issues.

“The future will demand greater attention to emerging issues such as artificial intelligence, digital surveillance, misinformation, and climate-related rights, while ensuring that human rights are fully respected and protected in all areas of governance,” he said.

He also stressed that Nigerians must actively uphold human rights, emphasizing that real progress comes from people, not just institutions.

“Institutions alone do not protect human rights,people do. True progress depends on individuals who refuse to be indifferent, who speak out, and who take action to defend the rights and dignity of every Nigerian,” he said.

Ojukwu called on government, civil society, and citizens to deepen collaboration in tackling emerging challenges such as digital surveillance, climate-related rights, and civic space restrictions.

On his part, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mohamed Fall, emphasized the National Human Rights Commission’s three decades of steadfast advocacy in protecting human rights, noting its professional and courageous approach in line with international standards.

He said: “For three decades, the Commission has been an indispensable champion of human rights in Nigeria, consistently demonstrating courage, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to the Paris Principles, serving as a beacon of justice and a stronghold for the vulnerable.”

Fall highlighted the extensive partnership between the UN and NHRC, pointing out the technical support, training, and capacity-building programs that have strengthened the Commission’s independence and operational effectiveness nationwide.

“Over these 30 years, Occupational Safety and Health Administration,OSHA has provided sustained technical assistance, capacity building, advisory services, training, and strategic support that has significantly strengthened the Commission’s independence, investigative mechanisms, monitoring systems, complaint handling processes, and nationwide outreach, helping it grow into one of Africa’s most respected human rights institutions,” he said.

The UN representative commended the leadership of NHRC, particularly its Executive Secretary, for boosting the institution’s credibility, public trust, and regional stature, making it a key player in West African human rights initiatives.

“Under his leadership, the NHRC has reached new heights of effectiveness and public trust, and we congratulate him on his role as chairperson of the Network of National Human Rights Institutions of West Africa, a well-deserved recognition that underscores his regional and continental influence in advancing human rights,” he said.

Fall stressed that NHRC’s 30th anniversary should not only be a celebration but also a moment to renew commitment to democracy, human dignity, and the fight against corruption, ensuring past lessons inspire future action.

“This moment is not just a commemoration of thirty years of existence, but a clear call to recommit ourselves to the ideals of democracy, human dignity, and fundamental freedoms, ensuring that the lessons learned during times of darkness become catalysts for concrete actions in our ongoing quest for a Nigeria where human rights are respected and upheld,” he said.

The European Union ( EU), Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, emphasized that the European Union values the NHRC’s consistent work over three decades in defending human rights, providing Nigerians with access to justice, and promoting accountability across the federation.

He said: “The Commission’s presence across all states and federations offers Nigerians a reassurance that every citizen can gain access to the Commission in which they can conduct a deep and accountable investigation with a view to the human rights and fundamental freedoms that they value, reflecting the Commission’s enduring commitment to protecting human dignity and justice.”

Mignot highlighted the NHRC’s strategic role in promoting human rights through collaboration with civil society and government actors, leveraging its documentation and data to guide advocacy and reforms.

“The Commission and civil society partners have a strategic role to play in promoting respect for and enjoyment of human rights as guaranteed by the country’s constitution, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and other international human rights instruments, and its monthly Human Rights Situation Classical and the National Observatory of Human Rights provide essential public data to guide effective advocacy and interventions,” he said.

The Ambassador noted the NHRC’s effectiveness in handling complaints and enforcing human rights protections, illustrating its reach and impact with concrete examples such as handling millions of complaints annually.

“Over a 30-year period, the Commission has established itself as the premier defender of people’s rights, handling last year alone 2.5 million complaints on labor rights, gender-based violence, and infractions against women’s rights and freedoms, demonstrating the scope of the Commission and the effectiveness of its services,” he said.

Mignot also stressed the need for evidence-based, public health-centered approaches to challenges like drug abuse, rather than relying solely on criminalization, highlighting NHRC’s role in shaping policy.

“The focus on penalties and the resulting stigma tends to discourage drug users from seeking help, leading to further abuse and mental health issues, and the Commission’s advocacy emphasizes a balanced approach that combines law enforcement with public health strategies, rehabilitation, and community-based interventions to protect the rights and dignity of all affected,” he said.

Law Professor and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Prof.Joy Ezeilo emphasized that Nigeria’s return to civilian rule in 1999 was not a gift, but the result of relentless activism and courage by unarmed citizens, civil society, women’s organizations, student unions, and professional associations who demanded accountability despite repression.

“The resilience of civil society, because they didn’t give up, was evident in the civil liberty organizations, the women’s movements, and many others who stood up. Democracy in Nigeria was not handed down as a gift from nature; it was wrested into a system by the courage of unarmed citizens and the persistence of organized groups who risked persecution to demand accountability,” she said .

She highlighted the legal and institutional milestones achieved since 1999, including the new constitution, judicial improvements, and proliferation of NGOs advocating for transparency, accountability, and human rights. However, challenges remain in consolidating democracy and ensuring independent institutions.

“Because of civil society, there has been a proliferation of non-governmental organizations advocating for human rights, transparency, and accountability. Judicial improvement has been observed, yet the independence of the judiciary remains a demand that must be fulfilled, and the legitimacy of our constitution continues to require active engagement from ‘we, the people’ of Nigeria”.

She acknowledged persistent human rights challenges, including impunity by security forces, violence against women and girls, poverty, unemployment, trafficking, and cyber threats.

She stressed the importance of addressing these challenges to protect freedom, dignity, and civic participation.

“Reports of extrajudicial killings, torture, and judicial detention by security agencies continue to surface, while women and girls experience high rates of violence and limited legal protection. Poverty, unemployment, and trafficking exacerbate these vulnerabilities. Democracy must guarantee the dignity and participation of all citizens, including marginalized groups”.

She further emphasized the importance of independent human rights institutions like the NHRC and the support of international bodies such as the UN, African Union, and ECOWAS in monitoring, advising, and ensuring compliance with human rights standards. Effective remedy and institutional autonomy are crucial.

“Today, we are happy that we have an independent human rights institution. Over the past years, it has operated across regimes, documented violations, advised on policy, and engaged in dialogue. International organizations like UN, African Union, and ECOWAS have been the backbone in pushing for accountability and compliance, reminding us that effective remedy and institutional independence are essential to realizing human rights,” she said.

Ezeilo however called for collective responsibility, civic engagement, and continued vigilance to strengthen democracy, protect rights, and ensure that human rights are not just aspirations but a lived reality for all Nigerians.

“As we strive to build a more just society, together we can channel our insights and experiences into a future where human rights are not just aspirations but reality for every Nigerian. The path forward requires unwavering dedication.

At 30, NHRC Reaffirms Commitment to Protecting All Nigerians