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NELFUND Reopens Student Loan Application Portal, Sets 48-Hour Submission Window

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NELFUND Reopens Student Loan Application Portal, Sets 48-Hour Submission Window

The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has announced the reopening of its student loan application portal, offering a 48-hour submission window for eligible students to apply for financial support under the federal government’s tertiary education loan scheme.

In a statement released on Friday, NELFUND said the reopening is aimed at accommodating students who were unable to complete their applications during the initial registration phase. The organization emphasized that the limited reopening period will enable it to process pending applications and prepare for the next academic cycle.

“This 48-hour window is to ensure that all eligible applicants who missed the earlier deadline have another opportunity to complete their applications,” the statement read.

The student loan program, a key initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, was designed to improve access to higher education for Nigerian students by providing interest-free loans to those enrolled in public tertiary institutions across the country.

According to NELFUND, the online portal — accessible via www.nelf.gov.ng — will remain open for two days only, after which the window will automatically close. Applicants are advised to upload accurate documentation, including institutional admission details, guarantor information, and verified bank data, to ensure their applications are successfully processed.

The fund reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the disbursement process, noting that loan approvals and disbursements will be handled digitally to minimize delays and human interference.

Since its initial rollout earlier in 2025, the NELFUND scheme has attracted thousands of applications nationwide, reflecting widespread demand among students seeking financial assistance to cover tuition, accommodation, and educational expenses.

Stakeholders in the education sector have commended the move, describing it as a vital step toward reducing financial barriers to tertiary education and promoting human capital development in line with the federal government’s youth empowerment agenda.

From Skits to Saskatchewan: How Frank Donga Turned Laughter into a Global Career in Agriculture

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From Skits to Saskatchewan: How Frank Donga Turned Laughter into a Global Career in Agriculture

From Agricultural Science to Skit Stardom — and Back to Agriculture: The Remarkable Journey of Frank Donga

In a world where reinvention is the only constant, few stories capture resilience and versatility like that of Nigerian entertainer and professional communicator, Frank Donga;  born Kunle Idowu.

Before the fame, the laughs, and the viral skits, Frank Donga was a scholar deeply rooted in the sciences. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Science, and later pursued a Master’s degree in Animal Genetics from the prestigious University of Ibadan. His early academic path was clear: a future in agricultural research and animal breeding. But the unpredictable Nigerian economy had other plans.

As job opportunities grew scarce and frustration mounted, Idowu turned to his other passion storytelling and satire. With a keen sense of humor and a sharp understanding of everyday struggles, he created the fictional character Frank Donga, an awkward job seeker navigating the absurdities of life in Nigeria.

The character struck a national chord. His sketches on the “The Interview” series quickly went viral, turning him into one of Nigeria’s most recognizable comedy faces during the early wave of online skit-making. Through humor, he mirrored the social and economic realities faced by millions of Nigerian youths unemployment, bureaucracy, and the quest for a better life.

Yet, even as his popularity soared, Idowu never abandoned his intellectual roots. His career has now come full circle, blending communication and agriculture in a new environment. Having relocated to Canada, a move popularly described in Nigerian slang as “japa” Frank Donga now works as a Multimedia Communications Specialist at the Ministry of Agriculture in Saskatchewan, Canada.

There, he channels his creative and scientific expertise into public engagement, digital storytelling, and agricultural communication; a perfect fusion of his two worlds.

Frank Donga’s story is more than a tale of migration or career shifts; it’s a testament to adaptability. From the farms and laboratories of Ibadan to the digital screens of Nigeria and now the policy corridors of Canada, he has shown that knowledge, creativity, and courage can coexist and evolve.

It’s a reminder that no skill or experience is ever wasted. Sometimes, life simply rewrites the script and we must be ready to play every role.

Written by Adesina Kasali

April Chidinma Obichie: Ranks Africa’s Culture Shaper, Class of 2025

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April Chidinma Obichie: Ranks Africa’s Culture Shaper, Class of 2025

In the ever-evolving world of Nollywood, where fame flickers and destinies shift like the pulse of Lagos, April Chidinma Obichie stands apart — luminous, unshakable, and rewriting the narrative of modern African cinema. A distinguished honoree in Ranks Africa’s Culture Shapers: The Class of 2025, April represents the perfect fusion of artistry and purpose — a visionary whose grace and grit fuel a mission to tell stories that echo far beyond the screen, touching hearts, shaping minds, and redefining what it means to lead with impact.

Her ascent is nothing short of cinematic poetry. From the tender revelations of 13 Letters — her electrifying breakout — to the visceral depth she infused into The Waiter, April commands the frame with an authenticity that lingers. Her riveting turn as Segilola in The Waiter clinched a Best Supporting Actress nomination at the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF), a laurel that not only spotlights her emotive range but signals her inexorable rise among the industry’s elite.

Yet April’s canvas extends far beyond performance; she wields the director’s chair with the same unyielding vision. Her audacious short film debut, PREYE, confronts the shadows of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) with unflinching grace, weaving advocacy into every frame. The result? A cascade of TINFF nods, including Best Short Film – Nollywood and Best Film by a Female Filmmaker (Africa) — testaments to her ability to transmute trauma into transformative art.

As CEO of April Studios, she orchestrates more than productions; she architects ecosystems. From pioneering equipment rentals that democratize access for emerging filmmakers to tailored mentorship programs that nurture raw talent, April is forging a legacy of inclusion. Her humanitarian arm, April Cares, further illuminates her ethos — over 200 lives uplifted through essential school supplies, groceries, and healthcare aid, proving that true stardom serves as a scaffold for societal ascent.

April’s tapestry of triumphs gleams with honors that span beauty, culture, and impact: Face of Unity (2015), Miss Nwada Anioma (2012), and a Top 15 finalist spot in Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (2015). These are not mere titles but milestones in a journey of unapologetic excellence.

April Chidinma Obichie is no fleeting meteor — she is the dawn of a bolder Nollywood era: a storyteller who amplifies the silenced, a changemaker who ignites progress, and a culture shaper whose light refracts across the continent. In The Class of 2025, she stands as a beacon of African ingenuity, reminding us that the future of film isn’t scripted — it’s seized.

✨ Watch out for the full list of Film Industry Culture Shapers 2025 — where visionaries like April are just the beginning.

Nigeria Custom Seme Command Seizes ₦1.99 Billion Contraband, Hands Over Suspects to NDLEA

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The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has intercepted smuggled goods valued at ₦1.99 billion during an intensive anti-smuggling operation conducted along the Lagos–Abidjan Corridor.

According to the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, the operation, which took place between September 1 and October 9, led to the confiscation of several prohibited items, including 10,000 bags of expired flour imported from Egypt, as well as illicit drugs such as cannabis and tramadol.

Adenuga disclosed that the command also arrested suspects linked to the smuggling of the seized substances, who have since been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.

He explained that the interception underscores the command’s commitment to safeguarding public health, curbing illegal trade, and promoting legitimate cross-border commerce in line with the Service’s renewed operational strategy.

“The Seme Area Command remains resolute in its duty to protect Nigeria’s economic and security interests by preventing the inflow of harmful and prohibited goods through our borders,” Adenuga said.

The Seme border, which serves as one of the busiest gateways for trade between Nigeria and West Africa, has witnessed increased enforcement operations in recent months as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen revenue generation and regional trade compliance.

Peru’s Congress Ousts President Dina Boluarte Over ‘Moral Incapacity’ Amid Worsening Crime Crisis

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Peru’s Congress Ousts President Dina Boluarte Over ‘Moral Incapacity’ Amid Worsening Crime Crisis

Peru’s political landscape shifted dramatically on Friday as lawmakers voted unanimously to impeach President Dina Boluarte, citing “permanent moral incapacity” following mounting criticism over her government’s failure to address rising crime and insecurity.

The vote, held in the early hours of Friday, saw all 118 members of Congress support Boluarte’s removal, marking one of the rare instances of complete legislative consensus in the country’s turbulent political history.

The decision came after weeks of public outrage and escalating violence across major cities. A deadly shooting at a popular cumbia concert earlier this week, which left several people injured, became a flashpoint for widespread anger over the government’s inability to maintain law and order.

Boluarte, who took office in December 2022 following the ouster of former President Pedro Castillo, had faced persistent political scandals, corruption allegations, and steadily declining approval ratings. Opinion polls in recent months placed her among the least popular presidents in Peru’s modern democratic era.

As news of her impeachment broke, crowds gathered outside the National Congress in Lima, waving Peruvian flags and chanting in celebration of the lawmakers’ decision. Inside the chamber, the atmosphere was similarly charged, with legislators applauding as the final votes were counted.

Following Boluarte’s removal, Congress President José Jerí is expected to be sworn in as interim leader. He will oversee the government’s transition ahead of the next general elections, scheduled for April 12, 2026, unless Congress elects a new president from within its ranks before that date.

Analysts say Boluarte’s ouster reflects deep public frustration over Peru’s ongoing political instability and the government’s struggle to restore security and trust in public institutions.

Mali Abolishes Teaching of French Revolution in Schools

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Mali Abolishes Teaching of French Revolution in Schools

The government of Mali has officially removed the French Revolution from the national school curriculum, marking a significant shift in the country’s educational and cultural policy under President Assimi Goïta.

The decision, announced this week by the Ministry of National Education, follows a directive from President Goïta aimed at reforming Mali’s education system to reflect national history, African heritage, and local realities rather than European historical narratives.

According to government officials, the move forms part of a broader effort to “decolonize” the Malian curriculum and strengthen national identity following years of political transition and growing tensions with France.

“The time has come for Malian students to study the revolutions, empires, and leaders that shaped Africa, not just those that shaped Europe,” an education ministry spokesperson said.

The French Revolution, long regarded as a cornerstone of modern European political thought, has traditionally been a major component of history education across former French colonies. Its removal signals a continuing break from France’s influence in Mali’s institutions since the military government assumed power in 2021.

In recent years, the Goïta administration has pursued policies emphasizing sovereignty and self-determination, including the expulsion of French troops, the withdrawal from the G5 Sahel alliance, and strengthened ties with Russia and other non-Western partners.

Education experts in Bamako have described the curriculum reform as both symbolic and practical, intended to inspire a generation of Malians to draw lessons from their own historical struggles and achievements.

Further details on the revised history syllabus are expected to be released later this month.

Imo State Unveils Monument Honoring Africa’s First Female President, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

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Imo State Unveils Monument Honoring Africa’s First Female President, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

A monumental statue in honor of former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first elected female head of state, has been unveiled in Owerri, the Imo State capital.

The tribute, commissioned by the Imo State Government, celebrates Sirleaf’s historic contributions to democracy, peacebuilding, and the advancement of women’s leadership across Africa.

Governor Hope Uzodinma, who presided over the unveiling ceremony, described the monument as a “symbol of enduring respect for a woman whose leadership transformed not only Liberia but inspired a generation of African women to pursue excellence in public service.”

During her visit to the state, Madam Sirleaf was conferred with a traditional chieftaincy title by local leaders and presented with Imo State’s highest merit award in recognition of her statesmanship and global influence.

In her remarks, Sirleaf expressed gratitude for the honor and commended the people of Imo for their hospitality, noting that the gesture underscored the unity and shared aspirations of African nations.

The statue, now standing prominently in Owerri, is intended to serve as a permanent reminder of Sirleaf’s legacy as a pioneer of women’s political empowerment and a beacon of resilience in African governance.

Tanzania’s Gold Exports Hit Record $4.32 Billion, Up 35.5% in One Year

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Tanzania’s Gold Exports Hit Record $4.32 Billion, Up 35.5% in One Year

Tanzania’s gold exports soared to a record $4.32 billion in the year ending August 2025, representing a 35.5 percent increase from the previous year, according to the Bank of Tanzania’s September 2025 Monthly Economic Review.

The central bank reported that the surge has reaffirmed gold’s position as the country’s leading export, outpacing other commodities and reinforcing its importance to Tanzania’s foreign exchange earnings.

Several factors contributed to the sharp rise in export revenue. Chief among them was a significant increase in global gold prices, which reached $3,368 per troy ounce in August 2025, driven by global economic uncertainty and strong investor demand for safe-haven assets.

The report also noted increased investor appetite for gold amid global market volatility, as well as heightened purchases by central banks worldwide, including the Bank of Tanzania, which has been actively accumulating gold to strengthen its foreign reserves.

Additionally, ongoing mining sector reforms and improved government oversight have enhanced transparency and efficiency in the industry, leading to higher production volumes and better export management.

Analysts say the strong performance of the gold sector underscores Tanzania’s growing role in the global minerals market and reflects the success of recent policy measures aimed at boosting the country’s extractive industries.

The Bank of Tanzania added that it remains committed to sustaining growth through continued reforms, diversification of mineral exports, and investment in value addition within the mining sector.

Uganda Begins Construction of $4 Billion Oil Refinery in Hoima, Completion Set for 2029–2030

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Uganda Begins Construction of $4 Billion Oil Refinery in Hoima, Completion Set for 2029–2030

Uganda is advancing plans to build a $4 billion oil refinery in Hoima District, a major milestone in the country’s long-awaited effort to add value to its oil resources and strengthen energy independence.

According to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, the refinery—located in Kabale Parish, Hoima District—is designed to process 60,000 barrels of crude oil per day once operational. The project is a joint venture between the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) and Alpha MBM Investments, a United Arab Emirates–based firm.

Construction is scheduled for completion between late 2029 and early 2030, aligning with Uganda’s broader strategy to develop its petroleum sector in tandem with infrastructure projects such as the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP).

The refinery complex is strategically linked to the Kabalega Industrial Park, a 29-square-kilometre hub designated for petrochemical production, fertilizer manufacturing, and logistics services. Officials say the integration of the two facilities will create a regional value chain supporting energy, industry, and trade.

Government representatives have emphasized that the refinery will reduce Uganda’s dependence on imported petroleum products, stimulate job creation, and position the country as a refining and energy hub in East and Central Africa.

Energy experts note that the refinery project—first conceived over a decade ago—marks a significant step toward industrializing Uganda’s oil sector, which is anchored on estimated reserves of 6.5 billion barrels discovered along the Albertine Graben.

Further updates on financing, local content participation, and construction timelines are expected in early 2026 as preparatory works continue on-site.

Africa’s hottest heist movie, “Gingerrr,” hits ₦185 million at the box office in just 11 days

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Africa’s hottest heist movie, “Gingerrr,” hits ₦185 million at the box office in just 11 days

Hold onto your popcorn, Naija—Gingerrr isn’t just a movie; it’s a cinematic earthquake, shattering records and stealing hearts with its pulse-pounding heist drama! Directed by Ugezu Jide Ugezu and co-produced and starring the unstoppable Kie Kie (Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori), Wunmi Toriola, Bolaji Ogunmola, and Bisola Aiyeola alongside a killer cast, this September sensation has roared past ₦185 million at the box office in a blistering 11 days, claiming the throne as Nollywood’s highest-grossing title of the month.

 

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A post shared by Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori (@kie_kie__)

From its explosive opening weekend haul of ₦82.6 million—the biggest non-festive debut of 2025—this high-stakes thriller has fans raving about its twists, laughs, and that unmissable Kie Kie swagger. “185M AND COUNTING! HIGHEST GROSSING SEPTEMBER NOLLYWOOD TITLE,” Kie Kie crowed on socials, urging everyone to flood cinemas. And flood they have—proving once again that Nollywood’s fire is unstoppable!

Don’t sleep on this gem—grab tickets now and join the heist that’s rewriting box office history. Gingerrr: Where the plot twists harder than your ex’s excuses. Who’s seen it? Spill in the comments!

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