Month: May 2025

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Plateau Govt Updates Citizens on Road Projects, Smart Cities & Youth Programs

The Plateau State Government continued its ministerial press briefings with Day 2 highlighting the achievements of key ministries under Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s leadership. Commissioners for Environment, Works, Youth and Sports, and Housing presented their progress reports at the J.D. Gomwalk Secretariat in Jos.

The briefing showcased the government’s focus on infrastructure, climate action, youth empowerment, and urban development. It emphasized transparency and a commitment to inclusive, sustainable progress across Plateau State.

The Commissioner for Environment, Climate Change and Mineral Development, Hon. Peter Kanang Gwom revealed efforts to tackle erosion, climate change, and improve water access. He said over 2,000 households now have water harvesting systems, while flood-prone areas are receiving focused interventions, with erosion control projects expected to be completed by October.

The ministry, in collaboration with the World Bank-backed ACReSAL and the European International Bank, is strengthening climate resilience. A 17.1km perimeter fence is also under construction around Jos Wildlife Park to boost conservation and curb illegal mining.

He also highlighted the ongoing renovation and digital upgrade of ministry offices to enhance efficiency. Gwom assured full transparency, saying they are ready to share reports and pictorial evidence of progress with the public.

The Commissioner for Works, Hon. Ubandoma Joshua Laven stated that 49 road projects inherited from past governments are currently ongoing. Seventeen of these have been approved and are actively progressing in various communities like Jengre, Karampana among others.

He emphasized that the government is prioritizing the completion of existing projects instead of starting new ones. Key urban roads like Bukuru Road and Yelwa Club Junction are being improved to ease traffic and enhance urban mobility.

Laven said improved road infrastructure is attracting new residents to Jos, increasing demand for housing. He called on citizens to monitor projects in their areas and assured that Governor Mutfwang’s administration is committed to lasting solutions.

The Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Musa Ibrahim Ashoms highlighted youth development through global sports exposure, skills, and economic opportunities. He said Plateau athletes have been sponsored to competitions in Morocco and Egypt, with upgrades ongoing at Rwang Pam Stadium.

He mentioned support for feeder teams like Platy Jet, some of whose players have secured contracts abroad. He added that retired athletes are being trained as coaches and officials to boost capacity in the sports sector.

Ashoms also shared that the Plateau Youth Agricultural Employment Program has empowered 340 youths already, aiming to reach 1,000 by year-end. He stressed the government’s commitment to equal opportunity for all youths across the state.

Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Sylvanus Dongtoe, spoke on the revival of abandoned projects, including a 6.7km road now under construction. He said roads like Nukong and Masabashi Chuma have seen extensions and completion under the renewed effort.

He added that the Jennifer Clark Secretariat has been upgraded with modern tools, laptops, and vehicles to improve staff performance. These efforts align with the governor’s “The Time Is Now” agenda.

Dongtoe also introduced the SmartUSD initiative to drive smart urban development. He said new towns are being mapped for investors, metro bus shelters are underway, and government buildings are receiving fire safety upgrades with federal support.

The Plateau State Ministerial Briefings offered a clear picture of the government’s achievements across critical sectors. From environmental protection to youth empowerment and urban renewal, the reports underscored a focused and visionary administration.

With Governor Mutfwang’s team showing progress and transparency, Plateau citizens can expect more inclusive development. The state’s future looks promising under this results-driven leadership.

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Plateau Hosts Key Electoral Reform Dialogue at FOSIECON National Delegates Conference

Jos, Plateau State – 21 May 2025 – The 13th Forum of State Independent Electoral Commission (FOSIECON) National Delegates Conference officially commenced today at Crispan Hotel, Jos, Plateau State, bringing together electoral stakeholders from across Nigeria to deliberate on strengthening grassroots democracy and electoral reforms.

Chief Barrister Jossy Chibundu, Chairman of FOSIECON, delivered the opening remarks, welcoming participants and highlighted the constitutional role of SIECs in conducting Local Government elections across Nigeria’s 36 states. He addressed the challenges facing SIECs, including lack of financial autonomy, political interference, administrative constraints, and public misunderstanding. Despite these issues, many SIECs have commendably fulfilled their mandates. The Chairman emphasized the significance of this conference as a platform for dialogue and reform, especially in light of ongoing legislative attempts to weaken or abolish SIECs. He expressed gratitude to states like Plateau for supporting local elections and urged other governors to strengthen their SIECs. The event aims to foster collaboration and share insights to enhance grassroots democracy. Eze concluded with appreciation to all participants for their commitment to credible local governance.

In his opening remarks, Plateau State Governor Barr. Caleb Mutfwang welcomed participants warmly, highlighting the state’s hospitality, security, and scenic environment. He encouraged visitors to explore and share positive experiences about Plateau, countering negative perceptions. Mutfwang reflected on past events successfully hosted in Jos, like the Nigerian Bar Association conference, to emphasize the state’s readiness for business and tourism. Commending fellow governors and state institutions for developmental strides, he stressed the importance of collaboration for regional growth. On elections, he acknowledged systemic issues but emphasized that leadership is central to national development. Referencing the book Why Nations Fail, he asserted that the failure of nations stems from leaders lacking conscience. He urged a shift in focus toward credible leadership recruitment, arguing that lasting institutional reform and national progress are only possible when visionary, people-centered leaders are chosen. Mutfwang called for honesty, sincerity, and a renewed commitment to responsible governance.

In his opening remarks, His Royal Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba, the Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman, Plateau Council of Chiefs and Emirs, ably represented by the Ngolong Ngas, Nde Jika Golit, warmly welcomed all participants to the conference. He emphasized the importance of the gathering and urged delegates to pay close attention to the discussions. He encouraged them to deliberate sincerely on issues that promote grassroots democracy, strengthen local governance, and uphold justice. He stressed the value of peace over violence in resolving differences. Concluding his remarks, he wished everyone fruitful deliberations and a safe journey back to their respective destinations.

Goodwill messages were delivered by prominent figures including Prof. Chris Kwaja, Country Director of the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), and representatives from international development partner DAI. Hon. Chris Hassan, Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) Plateau State, also called for professionalism and neutrality within electoral commissions to build public trust and enhance the credibility of grassroots elections.

Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, praised Plateau’s developmental strides and commitment to security, acknowledging the challenges faced by SIECs such as mistrust and political interference. He stressed the importance of engaging local communities directly to build confidence and foster credible elections.

Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, Chairman of the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC), expressed gratitude to the host state and participating commissioners, highlighting the value of self-assessment and mutual learning. He thanked Plateau and Nasarawa governors for their steadfast support and praised the peaceful environment and hospitality provided for delegates. Cishak invited all to enjoy the cultural offerings of Plateau and become ambassadors for the state’s heritage.

The conference provides a critical platform for addressing the challenges faced by State Independent Electoral Commissions, aiming to enhance their independence, transparency, and effectiveness in delivering credible elections at the grassroots level.

As the event continues, delegates will engage in further discussions and collaborative efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions and promote sustainable electoral reforms.

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Plateau Govt. Highlights Milestones in Inclusion, Economic Expansion, and Governance

In a bold move to strengthen governance and development in Plateau State, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang’s administration has unveiled a comprehensive reform agenda targeting the civil service, commerce, and land administration sectors. This was disclosed during a series of ministerial press briefings held at the J.D. Gomwalk Secretariat in Jos, where heads of key ministries highlighted progress under the government’s “Time is Now” policy direction.

Civil Service Transformation

The Head of Civil Service, Mr. Stephen Pam Gadong, revealed sweeping reforms aimed at restoring professionalism and morale within the Plateau State Civil Service. Under the current administration, all outstanding salary arrears have been cleared, and consistent monthly salary payments are now the norm. In a significant step for retirees, the state has approved a monthly release of N400 million to settle pension and gratuity arrears dating as far back as 1986.

Gadong also announced the full implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage and upward review of pensions, with retirees who previously earned as little as N5,000 now receiving a minimum of N20,000. Over 4,000 newly recruited staff have undergone induction training, and a specialized workshop for 170 Executive Officers was recently conducted to enhance service delivery.

To address housing needs, the state has committed N372 million for land acquisition in Bassa LGA to commence a new civil service housing scheme. Gadong stressed that these efforts are designed to create a future-ready workforce in line with the administration’s agenda.

Promoting Transparency and Accountability

Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, underscored the administration’s dedication to openness and citizen engagement. She described the ministerial briefing as a key tool to bridge the gap between government and citizens by promoting access to information and public accountability.

Despite security challenges, Ramnap noted that the Mutfwang-led government continues to prioritize physical development, peacebuilding, and economic reforms that reflect the people’s aspirations.

Boosting Commerce and Industry

The Ministry of Commerce, under Commissioner Hon. Nyalum M. Salisu, is implementing strategic initiatives to position Plateau as an economic powerhouse. These include the introduction of a digital platform for business registration, enabling entrepreneurs to register their premises remotely. The ministry has also partnered with financial institutions and universities to facilitate affordable credit for small and medium-sized enterprises.

Salisu highlighted significant progress in the export sector, with cooperatives and agricultural producers now accessing wider markets. Notable investments have emerged in the industrial sector, with facilities such as NASCO and Begging Bright Flour now producing up to 150 tons of flour daily.

In the informal sector, the ministry is working to standardize market infrastructure and has trained over 120 women and cooperatives to boost productivity and entrepreneurship. Salisu reaffirmed the commitment to strengthening public-private partnerships and broadening the state’s industrial base.

Gender-Inclusive and Digitally-Driven Land Reforms

At the Ministry of Lands, Survey, and Town Planning, Commissioner Hon. Peter Nyam Gai unveiled a landmark gender-inclusive initiative—free land registration forms for women in Plateau State. This policy, aimed at empowering women through land ownership, marks a significant step toward gender equity.

The ministry has also constructed a new office complex, featuring a state-of-the-art boardroom and a staff sickbay offering free treatment. Staff capacity is being enhanced through retreats and exposure to best practices in digital land systems.

In terms of revenue, the ministry has recorded remarkable growth, with internally generated revenue rising from N250 million to over N700 million in one year. As of May 19, 2024, it had already generated N418 million toward its N2.4 billion target for the year. The ministry is also implementing a systemic land titling initiative to replace outdated documents with tamper-proof digital certificates.

The achievements highlighted during the press briefings signal a government focused on action, not just promises. From modernizing the civil service and supporting small businesses to promoting gender inclusion and leveraging technology in governance, the Mutfwang administration is laying a solid foundation for sustainable growth and inclusive development in Plateau State.

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Meet Dex Dee, Renowned Indigenous Music Maestro

Dex Dee Artist Biography, Achievements and Musical Journey

Full Name: Delleh Habila Pam
Stage Name: Dex Dee
Date of Birth: September 20
Place of Birth: Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria

Dex Dee is a Nigerian Afro-fusion and culturally conscious artist known for blending indigenous sounds with contemporary rhythms. Born in the heart of Jos, Plateau State, Dex Dee has grown to become a vibrant voice in Nigeria’s music scene, standing out for his lyrical depth, unique sound, and captivating stage presence.

He made a major impact with his breakout tracks My Life, Dyam Ryat, Vwell Mwot, Chimè, and Wurom Asè Wurom, which gained massive traction for their powerful messages and rich cultural flavor. These songs laid the foundation for a fast-rising career that has seen him headline some of the biggest shows in northern Nigeria.

Dex Dee’s live performances are known for their energy and soul, with milestone events such as:
• Wave Daddy Album Concert (2020)
• Dyam Ryat Album Concert (2022)
• Dex Dee Live In Concert 1.0 (2024)
• Dex Dee Live In Concert 2.0 (2025)

He has taken his music on the road through various radio tours across Jos and Abuja, with guest appearances on prominent stations like Jay 101.9 FM Jos, Rhythm 93.7 Jos, KT FM, Tin City FM, Ray Power Abuja, Ice FM, Dr. Fish FM, Agro FM, Wase Rock FM, and Peace 90.5 FM.

Dex Dee’s impact transcends music. He is a Peace Ambassador for the First Samaritan Love Foundation and a Brand Ambassador for De Sapphire Lounge, further solidifying his influence in entertainment and social development. His talent and dedication have earned him numerous accolades including:
• Plateau Man of the Year (Artist of the Year)

•   First Samaritan Love Foundation (Music Artist of the Year)

•   Africulfash (Most Stylish Artist of the Year)

•   Jos Social Night Awards (Artist of the Year)
  • Plateau Innovation And Business Conference (Best Music Artist)
  • Swag Nations Achievers Awards (Achieving Artist Of The Year)

Dex Dee continues to evolve as an artist, remaining rooted in his culture while pushing the boundaries of sound and performance.

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Plateau State University Calls for Application: Vice-Chancellor & Director of ICT

ADVERTISEMENT:

Are you ready to lead in an environment where knowledge meets innovation? Plateau State University, Bokkos invites applications from suitably qualified professionals to occupy two top-tier leadership positions: Vice-Chancellor and Director of Information and Communications Technology (ICT).

  1. VACANCY: VICE-CHANCELLOR

Location: Plateau State University, Bokkos
Tenure: Single non-renewable term of 5 years
Application Deadline: 6 weeks from date of publication

The Role:
The Vice-Chancellor serves as the Chief Executive and Academic Officer, overseeing academic and administrative functions, and ensuring adherence to University laws and regulations.

Eligibility Criteria:

A Professor with not less than 10 years of experience on the rank.

A visionary academic with demonstrable administrative competence.

Proven academic and public leadership credentials with international recognition.

Must be below 65 years at the time of application.

Of impeccable integrity, entrepreneurial drive, and free from financial embarrassment.

Should not have any prior conviction.

Application Package Must Include:

35 copies of signed Curriculum Vitae with detailed personal and professional information.

A personal vision for the University (max. 2,000 words).

Names and confidential referee reports from three referees (one from current workplace).

Submit to:
The Registrar, Plateau State University, Bokkos, P.M.B. 2012, Jos, Plateau State.
Mark envelope: “POST OF VICE-CHANCELLOR”

  1. VACANCY: DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION & COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY (ICT)

Location: Plateau State University, Bokkos
Tenure: Single term of 5 years
Application Deadline: 4 weeks from date of publication

The Role:
Reporting to the Vice-Chancellor, the Director of ICT oversees the University’s ICT systems and infrastructure, providing strategic leadership to support academic, administrative, and student-focused innovations.

Eligibility Criteria:

A good First Degree in Computer Science/Engineering or related fields.

A Master’s Degree and minimum of 10 years ICT experience.

Membership in professional ICT bodies and at least two relevant certifications.

Demonstrable success in managing ICT systems in a complex institution.

Strong leadership, credibility, and integrity.

Application Package Must Include:

3 copies of detailed Curriculum Vitae.

Names and contacts of three referees (2 must attest to professional/academic standing).

Submit to:
The Registrar, Plateau State University, Bokkos, P.M.B. 2012, Jos, Plateau State.
Mark envelope: “POST OF DIRECTOR OF ICT”

NOTE: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Signed:
Yakubu F. Ayuba
Registrar & Secretary to Council
Plateau State University, Bokkos

Be a part of shaping the future of higher education in Plateau State. Apply now and inspire change!

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Police Re-arraign VeryDarkMan Over Cyberbullying Of Nollywood Actresses, Others

The Police on Thursday re-arraigned controversial social media influencer Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, before a Federal High Court in Abuja for allegedly cyberbullying Nollywood actresses, Iyabo Ojo and Tonto Dikeh.

The social activist is also accused of cyberbullying Nigerian producer and singer Samuel Oguachuba, popularly called Samklef, among others.

VDM was re-arraigned before Justice Musa Liman on a five-count charge to which he pleaded not guilty.

Recall that VDM was first arraigned on May 22, 2024, before Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon for the same offences, which are contrary to and punishable under Section 24 of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015.

He was remanded in custody but later granted bail of ₦10 million on June 10, 2024. The bail conditions required two sureties who must either be employees of a reputable company or Level 17 officers in the federal civil service with evidence of three years’ tax clearance.

The charges, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/140/2024, dated and filed on March 28, 2024, were re-assigned to Justice Liman following Justice Olajuwon’s transfer to another division of the Federal High Court.

In the first count, VDM is alleged to have, on or about October 13, 2023, intentionally published a video on his Instagram handle (@verydarkblackman) containing threatening and bullying remarks aimed at Samuel Oguachuba.

The second count accuses him of intentionally posting videos on or about October 29, 2023, via his Instagram handle, which contained grossly offensive, indecent, obscene, or menacing information against Iyabo Ojo.

In the video, VDM allegedly claimed that “one Iyabo Ojo is having an indecent sexual relationship with her daughter.”

In the third count, VDM is accused of knowingly publishing a false claim on January 19, 2024, that “King Tonto Dikeh is involved in the criminal conversion of the proceeds from the crowdfunding for the Justice for Mobbad Movement and is the person behind the Gistlover blog.”

The fourth count alleges that on March 19, 2024, the defendant intentionally posted videos on his Instagram handle containing insulting and annoying remarks about the Deputy Inspectors General of Police and lawmakers in the National Assembly.

After his re-arraignment before Justice Liman, VDM’s counsel, Deji Adeyanju, requested that his client be allowed to remain on the bail conditions previously granted by Justice Olajuwon.

Police counsel Victor Okoye did not oppose the request.

Justice Liman upheld the earlier bail terms and adjourned the matter until July 24, 2025, for trial.

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Bandits Fed Twin Babies Born In Captivity To Dogs – Zamfara Rep

Bandits terrorising North West residents have fed newborn twins to dogs, according to Hon. Aminu Sani Jaji, the lawmaker representing Kaura Namoda and Birnin Magaji federal constituency of Zamfara State.

In a chat with newsmen on Wednesday, Jaji said the victim was abducted from a community in Zamfara while pregnant.

He said while she was delivered of twin babies, the bandits threw the newborns to dogs which ate them.

“That is where we are now. That is the level of inhumanity we are facing,” he said.

He also shared the heartbreaking story of an epileptic boy who was killed because he fell during a seizure.

“The bandit demanded the boy be brought to him to be executed. The father, out of desperation, begged his son to surrender to save the rest of the family. The boy agreed and was shot dead.”

The lawmaker said the frequency and brutality of the attacks suggest a collapse of governance in many parts of Zamfara, calling on the federal government to do more in tackling the situation.

He recalled that during the 2023 general elections, he was part of the Northwest campaign team for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and had given assurances to the people that security would be top priority.

“Now, we are failing those who believed in us. Our people can’t access their farms. Their economy has collapsed. We have many internally displaced persons (IDPs) who are not even recognised by the federal or state governments.”

He said he has tried to engage security stakeholders, including the Minister of Defence, but so far, little has come out of these efforts.

“Zamfara, my state, used to be the most peaceful in Nigeria. Today, we are among the most ravaged. The constitution guarantees the protection of life and property, but that promise is not being kept.”

Responding to a question about arming the residents for self-defence, he said the law must guide actions.

“We are legislators, not vigilantes. We cannot encourage people to take up arms illegally. But the truth is, the people feel abandoned.”

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JUST-IN: 379,997 JAMB Candidates To Retake 2025 UTME As Registrar Weeps, Admits Responsibility

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB)has admitted responsibility for the mass failure that trailed the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, UTME.

JAMB registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, fought tears at a press conference on Wednesday, while admitting to the ugly development.

He announced that about 379,997 candidates in the just concluded 2025 examination would retake the examination.

This followed widespread complaints of technical glitches, unusually low scores, and alleged irregularities in the just-concluded UTME.

Prof. Oloyede, who wept profusely, intermittently wiping his face with a handkerchief, said he took full responsibility for the negligence of its staff, revealing that 65 centres in Lagos and 92 centres in Owerri Zone covering the five states in the South East, would rewrite the exam.

candidates in four subjects, including the compulsory Use of English, with the other three drawn from their proposed field of study.

In the previous released results, out of the 1.9 million candidates who sat the UTME, over 1.5 million reportedly scored below 200 out of the maximum 400 marks, raising concerns across the education sector.

According to the examination agency, a total of 1,955,069 results were processed, out of which only 4,756 candidates (0.24 per cent) scored 320 and above, considered top-tier performance, while 7,658 candidates (0.39 per cent) scored between 300 and 319, bringing the total for those who scored 300 and above to 12,414 candidates (0.63 per cent).

Also, 73,441 candidates (3.76 per cent) scored between 250 and 299 while 334,560 candidates (17.11 per cent) scored between 200 and 249.

A total of 983,187 candidates (50.29 per cent) scored between 160 and 199, which is widely regarded as the minimum threshold for admissions in many institutions.

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Imo State Govt Demolishes EEDC District Office, Whisk Manager Away

In a shocking turn of events, the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company PLC (EEDC) has decried the unannounced demolition of its Orlu District office by the Imo State Government. The incident, which occurred around 8:30am on Wednesday, May 14, left staff and management in disbelief, with no prior notice or official explanation provided.

According to a statement issued by Emeka Ezeh, Head of Corporate Communications at EEDC, the demolition began when an excavator—allegedly sent by the Imo State Government—gained access to the premises through the back fence and immediately began pulling down structures.

“The excavator commenced the demolition of the property from the back fence, pulling down the store, the cash office, and the security house,” Ezeh stated.

“Properties and equipment belonging to the company were all destroyed, and staff who were around were denied access when they attempted to salvage the items.”

The situation escalated when the District Business Manager and another staff member were allegedly assaulted and arrested by a special security squad known as “Tiger Base,” and subsequently taken to Owerri. The demolition reportedly occurred under the watch of the Chairman of Orlu Local Government Area, Hon. Chris Mbaeri.

EEDC expressed deep concern over the development, noting that no official communication or justification for the action had been received from the state government.

“There is no known reason for the action, nor was there any notice or communication made to EEDC in that regard,” Ezeh said. “Rather, we were told that they were acting under the directive of the state government.”

Ezeh further stressed the need for accountability and transparency, especially given that EEDC had occupied the office premises for over 20 years. “We therefore request the Imo State Government to at least let us know why an office premises we have occupied for over two decades is suddenly being demolished in the manner it was done in the early hours of today.”

As of the time of this report, the management of EEDC remains in the dark over the motive behind the demolition, describing it as an “undeserving calamity.”

Efforts to reach the Imo State Government for comment have so far been unsuccessful.

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No Fraud Uncovered In NELFUND – Education Minister

The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, on Wednesday, declared that there was no fraud uncovered in the student loan scheme.

Alausa made this known at the end of a meeting held with Vice Chancellors, officials of the National Universities Commission, Nigerian Education Loan Fund and the Federal Ministry of Education.

Alausa also described the statement put up by the Independent and Corrupt Practices Commission and other related offences as incorrect.

“Let me start by saying that there is no fraud in NELFUND. ICPC reported that the information was not correct. There is no fraud in NELFUND; what we have are issues that have to do with the timeline.”

Recently, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Related Offences Commission said it commenced a comprehensive investigation into alleged discrepancies surrounding the disbursement of student loans under the Nigeria Education Loan Fund.

The commission said its preliminary findings revealed that while the Federal Government released N100 billion for the scheme, only N28.8 billion was disbursed to students, leaving N71.2b unaccounted for.

Worried by the development, the National Association of Nigerian Students vowed to protest the alleged discrepancy.

The National Orientation Agency had alleged that certain schools, conniving with some banks, delayed payments to students who qualified for loans so they could make money off the situation.

This followed a media report that alleged that some institutions made unauthorised deductions ranging from N3,500 to N30,000 from students’ fees received from the loan fund.

In a statement last Thursday by the ICPC spokesperson, Demola Bakare, the commission stated that its Special Task Force immediately commenced investigations upon receiving the allegations.