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Education, National, News

Nigerian Students Turn to AI as Study Companion, Google Data Reveals

As schools reopen across Nigeria, new Google Search data has revealed a dramatic shift in how students approach learning, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerging as their preferred study companion. Searches for “AI + studying” surged by more than 200 percent compared to last year, signaling a growing reliance on AI-powered tools for academic support. The trend reflects Nigeria’s broader surge in AI adoption, with national search interest in the technology reaching an all-time high in 2025—up 60 percent in just 12 months. Read Also: FG Introduces AI, Robotics, and Journalism into New Secondary School Curriculum Olumide Balogun, Google’s West Africa director, said: “It is inspiring to see Nigerian students embrace AI to support their learning journeys. The data shows they are not just seeking answers, but using AI to deepen understanding in complex subjects like chemistry and mathematics. This curiosity will help shape the next generation of innovators, and we remain committed to providing tools that empower them to learn, grow, and succeed.” Students are increasingly exploring practical applications of AI in their studies. For example, searches for “AI + lessons” rose 60 percent in the past year. Google’s data also highlighted subject-specific interest: AI + Chemistry (up 50 percent), AI + Maths (up 30 percent), AI + Languages (up 30 percent), and AI + Grammar (up 20 percent). Popular queries include “What is the best AI in the world for solving mathematical problems?”, “How to use AI to solve math problems?”, and “AI tutor for students.” Students are also searching for “free AI tools for studying” and “useful AI prompts for studying,” showing strong demand for accessible, subject-focused solutions. The AI wave extends beyond exam preparation. Nigerians are increasingly asking broader questions like “How to use AI” (+80 percent), “What is the full meaning of AI” (+80 percent), and “Who is the father of AI” (+70 percent), reflecting growing interest in understanding the technology itself. At the same time, concerns around academic integrity are rising. Searches for “AI detection” spiked by 290 percent in the past year, suggesting greater awareness of the ethical debates surrounding AI use in education. Career-focused queries are also on the rise. Generative AI has emerged as a breakout search term, often linked to professional certification. This indicates that students are not only using AI to succeed academically but also preparing to build careers in an AI-driven economy.

Education, National, News

WAEC Extends Registration Deadline for 2025 CB-WASSCE Private Candidates

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC), Nigeria, has announced an extension of the registration period for the 2025 Second Series Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (CB-WASSCE) for Private Candidates. In a statement released via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the Council said the new deadline is now Friday, September 19, 2025. “The registration period for CB-WASSCE for Private Candidates, 2025–Second Series has been extended to Friday, September 19, 2025. All prospective candidates are admonished to make good use of this opportunity,” WAEC stated. Read Also: FG Introduces AI, Robotics, and Journalism into New Secondary School Curriculum The CB-WASSCE Second Series is specifically designed for private candidates and is conducted later in the year, separate from the May/June examination for school candidates. The registration window was initially scheduled to close on September 5, 2025. WAEC introduced the Computer-Based WASSCE to modernize the examination process, curb malpractice, align with international best practices, and strengthen the credibility of its assessments. The maiden edition was held in 2024 using a hybrid format—questions were displayed on computer screens, while candidates submitted their answers with pen and paper. This transitional method was adopted to help candidates adjust to the new system while enabling WAEC to evaluate its feasibility. Building on lessons from the hybrid model, WAEC has now fully implemented a computer-based format for the 2025 CB-WASSCE for Private Candidates.

National, News

Tinubu to Address UN General Assembly September 24

President Bola Tinubu is set to address the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on September 24. According to a revised provisional list of speakers, Tinubu will take the floor on the second day of the high-level general debate. He is scheduled to deliver his remarks during the afternoon session at about 8:30 p.m. local time (2:30 p.m. Nigerian time). Read Also: Tinubu Directs Regulators to Strengthen Oversight of Stablecoins, Digital Currencies The Nigerian president will be the 17th speaker on the day, the updated schedule shows. This year’s general debate will host 195 world leaders, including 98 heads of state, five vice-presidents, 44 heads of government, four deputy prime ministers, 37 ministers, one crown prince, and four heads of delegation.

National, News

Customs Kicks Off Recruitment Test September 14th

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced that 286,697 applicants have been shortlisted to participate in the next stage of its ongoing recruitment exercise. In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Service’s National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, it was revealed that the shortlisted candidates were drawn from a total of 573,523 applications received nationwide. The Computer-Based Test (CBT), which marks the second stage of the process, will take place from September 14 to 21, 2025. Read Also: NAF Opens DSSC Course 34/2025 Recruitment – See How to Apply According to the NCS, the recruitment exercise is aimed at filling 3,927 vacancies across the Superintendent, Inspectorate, and Customs Assistant cadres. “Candidates shortlisted for the CBT are required to undertake the test at any location of their choice, provided there is reliable internet access,” the statement said. It added that applicants must use a laptop or desktop computer with a webcam and full-screen display, as the application is not mobile phone-enabled. Facial verification will also be conducted during login. The Service further cautioned that the CBT platform is sensitive to noise, body movement, and window switching, warning that such actions could lead to automatic logout or disqualification. To ensure smooth participation, a mandatory pre-test exercise will be conducted two days before the actual CBT to familiarise candidates with the system. Two separate links will be sent to all shortlisted applicants — one for the pre-test and another for the main examination. The NCS also disclosed that applicants for the Superintendent Cadre (Level 8) will undergo an additional CBT in the next phase of the recruitment, while those in the Inspectorate and Customs Assistant cadres will not. Reassuring candidates, the Customs Service emphasised that the recruitment exercise remains merit-driven, transparent, and free of charge, urging applicants to rely solely on its official platforms for updates.

National, News, Politics

INEC Confirms David Mark as ADC Leader Ahead of 2027 Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Wednesday officially recognized former Senate President David Mark as the new leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), bringing an end to months of internal restructuring within the opposition party. The recognition followed the submission of an updated list of national officers to the commission, positioning the ADC to consolidate its ranks ahead of the 2027 general elections. Among those also acknowledged by INEC were former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, who assumes the role of national secretary; Dr. Ibrahim Mani, treasurer; Akibu Dalhatu, financial secretary; and Professor Oserheimen Osunbor, former Edo State governor, who will serve as legal adviser. Read Also: Tinubu’s Record Driving Defections to APC, Says Yilwatda The commission’s decision is expected to pave the way for the ADC leadership to launch a nationwide reconciliation and mobilization drive as it works to strengthen the party’s foothold in Nigeria’s increasingly competitive political landscape. The development comes at a time when opposition parties are recalibrating their strategies, with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) already locked in early maneuvering for dominance ahead of the 2027 polls.

National, News

Nigeria’s Grid Collapses, Power Drops to 1.5MW

Nigeria’s electricity grid collapsed on Wednesday, marking the first nationwide outage of the year. Data from the Independent System Operator (ISO) showed that power generation plummeted from 2,917.83 megawatts (MW) to just 1.5 MW between 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. Confirming the incident in a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) said the collapse resulted in a total loss of supply across its franchise areas. Read Also: Meet Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat, NERC Chairman “Please be informed that the power outage currently being experienced is due to a loss of supply from the national grid at 11:23 a.m. today, affecting electricity supply across our franchise areas,” AEDC stated. “Rest assured, we are working closely with the relevant stakeholders to ensure power is restored once the grid is stabilized. Thank you for your patience and understanding.” The latest incident comes after months of relative stability. On February 12, several parts of the country were thrown into darkness following a grid collapse, though the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) denied reports that the system had failed twice in one day. In July, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) confirmed that no grid collapse had been recorded in the first quarter of 2025, but advised system operators to strengthen coordination to prevent outages. Nigeria’s power grid remains fragile, having recorded 11 nationwide collapses in 2024 alone, each leaving millions of homes and businesses without electricity.

Education, National, News

Credentials Controversy: Drama Unfolds in NOUN’s VC Nomination Process

The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has been embroiled in controversy following the exclusion of Prof. Godwin Akper’s name from the congregation list released on Monday. Akper, a leading contender for the vice-chancellor’s seat, was left out of the list that will determine representatives tasked with selecting the next vice-chancellor. Sources hinted that the omission might be tied to questions surrounding Akper’s academic qualifications, as he reportedly holds a diploma and master’s degree but not a first degree, seen as a basic requirement for congregation membership. However, Akper’s name was later added to the list after the registrar attributed the omission to an error. Read Also: Wike Appoints Acting Head of Service for FCT Administration Akper described the incident as an unexpected hurdle in his ambition to lead the institution but emphasized that the process should focus on the university’s progress rather than personal ambition. He stressed the need for unity among the university community and expressed his commitment to serving the institution if given the opportunity. The current Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Olufemi Peters, will complete his tenure on February 11, 2026.

National, Politics

Tinubu’s Record Driving Defections to APC, Says Yilwatda

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has expressed confidence that more state governors will defect to the ruling party before the 2027 general elections, strengthening President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid. Yilwatda made the remarks on Tuesday at the 12th Expanded Stakeholders’ Meeting of the APC in Bayelsa State, where party leaders unanimously endorsed Tinubu as their sole presidential candidate for the next election cycle. Represented by the Deputy National Chairman (South), Chief Emma Eneukwu, the APC chairman said Tinubu’s performance in office was attracting prominent political figures, including governors and senators, from opposition parties. Read Also: Engr. Ganduje’s Mega Empowerment Transforms Lives of Kano Youths Wike Appoints Acting Head of Service for FCT Administration APC Chair Yilwatda Hails Ganduje as ‘Co-Chairman’ of Party “More governors and lawmakers are still on their way to our party because of the calibre, integrity, and achievements of the president. Our doors are wide open to accommodate those willing to join hands with us to move Nigeria forward,” he stated. Yilwatda cited the recent defections of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno as evidence of Tinubu’s growing political influence across the country. He urged party members in Bayelsa to embrace unity, noting that collective effort was crucial to securing victory in 2027. “Other parties may make noise, but when you have a lion, it does not bother about barking dogs—it focuses on its mission. That is what President Tinubu is doing: taking the bull by the horns where others lacked the political will,” Yilwatda said. The APC chairman also commended political leaders in the South-South and South-East for what he described as “realistic decisions” to leave opposition parties and rally behind the president. “From the South-South to the South-East, leaders are aligning with the APC because they have seen the president’s determination to take Nigeria to greater heights,” he added.

Economy, National, News

Tinubu Directs Regulators to Strengthen Oversight of Stablecoins, Digital Currencies

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Nigeria’s financial and capital market regulators to intensify oversight of stablecoins and digital currencies, warning that the rapid shift away from traditional banking poses emerging risks that must be addressed proactively. The President, represented by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, gave the directive on Tuesday at the 18th Annual Banking and Finance Conference of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) in Abuja. “There is a digital revolution. So many people now are not using the banking system to make payments. They’ve turned to stablecoins, they’ve turned to digital currency. To this end, I have directed capital market and banking authorities to get hold of this narrative and track it whilst it is still evolving,” Tinubu said. Read Also: Wike Appoints Acting Head of Service for FCT Administration Engr. Ganduje’s Mega Empowerment Transforms Lives of Kano Youths Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital Launches Free Emergency Ambulance System The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has already begun tightening regulation under the Investment and Securities Act 2025, which classifies digital assets as securities. The law empowers the SEC to license and supervise Virtual Asset Service Providers—including exchanges and custodians—under strict Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) rules. Beyond regulation, Tinubu stressed the need for Nigeria to reinvent its economy through digital adoption, artificial intelligence, and open banking to drive industrialisation and job creation. “Yes, our GDP is growing, but the industrial contribution from manufacturing is not where it should be to create the jobs we need. Innovation is key for adopting digital, AI, and open banking to enhance efficiency,” he noted. The President also reiterated his administration’s commitment to harnessing Nigeria’s youthful population, projected to become the world’s largest workforce by 2050. “Our young population is an asset. By 2050, Nigeria will provide the largest workforce in the world. That is why we are investing in education, infrastructure, and digital skills to prepare them for the opportunities of tomorrow,” he affirmed. On fiscal reforms, Tinubu pointed to measures linking state accounts with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to boost transparency and revenue. “That linkage with the Central Bank now gives us full visibility on government finances, and that will yield dividends by increasing government revenue,” he said. He emphasised that financial inclusion must be tied to job creation, particularly for young Nigerians. “Inclusion means jobs—quality, attractive jobs, especially for our young men and women. Households must have reliable access to affordable financial services and reputable loans,” he added. Tinubu pledged that his administration will continue to stabilise the economy, reduce poverty, and attract private investment. “Those that innovate, that reform, that collaborate, will thrive. This is the path that Nigeria is firmly committed to,” he declared. Meanwhile, CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso announced plans to attract at least $1bn in monthly diaspora remittances by 2026. “The Nigerian diaspora is one of the most vibrant in the world. If we are able to harness even a fraction of their earnings and direct them into our economy, the impact will be transformative,” he said. Cardoso revealed that partnerships with banks such as Access Bank and Zenith Bank have already helped boost inflows. “When we started, remittances stood at $250m a month. We set a target to double that to $500m. Now, we are at $600m,” he noted. CIBN President and Council Chairman, Prof. Pius Olanrewaju, highlighted the significance of the conference in shaping economic policy, noting that listed banks have raised N2.5tn since 2024 and non-oil exports generated $3.23bn in the first half of 2025. He also lauded Tinubu’s approval of four tax reform bills consolidating over 100 tax agencies into the Nigeria Revenue Service, which will take effect in January 2026. The conference attracted stakeholders from banking, finance, and technology, focusing on digital innovation, policy reforms, and private investment as drivers of inclusive growth and economic transformation.

Kaduna, National, News

El-Rufai Petitions PSC Over Kaduna Police Conduct, Seeks Probe

Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has petitioned the Police Service Commission (PSC), accusing officers of the Kaduna State Police Command of unprofessional conduct and violations of the Police Act. In the petition, El-Rufai stressed the importance of accountability in law enforcement, urging the PSC to act against misconduct that erodes public trust in the police. “I am writing out of concern that the Nigerian Police, warts and all, is the only frontline law enforcement institution that we have. The duty of all citizens is not only to support it at every level, but also to ensure that the Commission is provided opportunities to deliver on its regulatory powers to enforce discipline and promote sound and ethical conduct by all police officers at all times. Read Also: Reps Speaker Clarifies Position on Borrowing, Denies Criticizing Govt FCT Resident Doctors Begin Seven-Day Warning Strike Tinubu Sacks Special Assistant on Digital and Creative Economy “This laudable goal can only be attained if the Commission’s attention is continuously drawn to any egregious conduct of some bad eggs that serve interests other than those conferred by law in Section 4 of the Police Act, 2020. Such conduct negatively affects the image of the Police and undermines public confidence in its leadership,” he wrote. The former governor noted that he had previously petitioned the Inspector-General of Police over what he described as “egregiously unlawful acts” allegedly committed by some officers since the assumption of office by Kaduna Police Commissioner, Rabiu Muhammad, on December 30, 2024. He urged the PSC to conduct an “immediate, impartial, and exhaustive” investigation into the matter. El-Rufai’s petition comes against the backdrop of a police summons requiring him and other leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kaduna to appear before investigators over allegations of criminal conspiracy, incitement, mischief, public disturbance, and causing grievous harm. The invitation, signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Criminal Investigation, Zubairu Abdullahi, directed El-Rufai and others to report to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). “This Department is currently investigating the above-mentioned case involving the following members of your party. You are requested to come along with them to SCID to clarify allegations reported against them by the complainants on 8th September, 2025,” the letter stated. However, some ADC members claimed they were not officially served, insisting they only became aware of the summons through social media reports. The controversy followed violent clashes on August 30, when suspected thugs attacked the inauguration of a transition committee formed by a coalition of opposition parties under the ADC in Kaduna. Armed with cutlasses, clubs, and stones, the attackers injured participants and destroyed property, though the event eventually continued amid tension. The coalition, which includes an APC faction opposed to the state leadership as well as the PDP, SDP, NNPP, Labour Party, and ADC, accused the ruling party of sponsoring the violence. The Kaduna Police Command, however, blamed El-Rufai for failing to notify security agencies ahead of the gathering.

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