From Mike Tayese, Yenagoa

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) and the Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) have launched a US$9 million professorial chair endowment programme across six Nigerian universities to develop commercially viable solutions to industry challenges, strengthen local research capacity and advance technological innovation.

Under the Nigerian Content Research and Development (NC-R&D) Professorial Chair Endowment Programme, each university is to receive US$1.

5 million to establish a specialised professorial chair focused on agreed industry research priorities. The initiative is being implemented in partnership with the NCDMB, under the supervision of its Planning, Research and Statistics Directorate.

The schools include the University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Rivers State University, Modibbo Adama University, Yola, Adamawa State, Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Kano State, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, and Yakubu Gowon University, formerly the University of Abuja.

Speaking at the kick-off ceremony, NLNG’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Adeleye Falade, described the programme as an investment in Nigeria’s capacity to translate academic knowledge into practical solutions. His keynote address, titled “Reshaping Nigeria’s Future Through Innovation, Research and Capacity Development,” emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration between government, industry and academia.

He noted that the programme would support research into challenges central to the energy industry’s future, including improving operational efficiency, managing emissions, strengthening safety, maintaining critical infrastructure and making industrial processes more sustainable.

Beyond the research endowments, Falade outlined opportunities for a “triple helix” approach that brings government, industry and academia together through specialised programmes, sabbaticals, exchange opportunities, practical testing of research assumptions and the joint development of postgraduate curricula.

The six beneficiary universities will undertake research in distinct areas and the NLNG Research and Innovation Centre for Computer and Electrical Engineering (RICCEE) at Rivers State University is envisaged as the coordinating point for these collaborations among the universities. Falade said discussions were already under way with the university on implementation arrangements and commended its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Isaac Zeb-Obipi, for his role in advancing the proposed collaboration. We have already gotten indications of other partners like Google, Cisco and MTN who are showing interest to support this initiative, he said.

Falade also highlighted the opportunities for younger researchers to deepen their expertise, investigate industry problems and learn from experienced academics and practitioners. He urged the beneficiary institutions to build on the endowments by strengthening research partnerships, attracting additional funding and pursuing the commercialisation of intellectual property.

Acknowledging NCDMB’s role in bringing the initiative to fruition, Falade called for sustained commitment to technology transfer and the development of home-grown solutions without compromising quality assurance or safety. He emphasised that the programme’s lasting value would lie in stronger institutions, research outcomes deployed in the field and the development of the next generation of Nigerian researchers and industry professionals.

In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe said the US$9 million endowment programme represents a strategic investment in the future of Nigeria’s research and innovation ecosystem.

The initiative, he said, complements the Board’s ongoing investments in research infrastructure, including the establishment of specialized R&D Centres of Excellence across six universities in the country.

Represented by the Senior Technical Adviser, Austin Uzoka, the Executive Secretary underscored that by supporting specialized professorial chairs in critical areas of the industry operations, NLNG and NCDMB is creating opportunities to bridge the longstanding gap between academic research and industrial application.

Details of the endowment indicates that the University of Ibadan will focus on natural gas processing, pollution control and environmental management, while Rivers State University will concentrate on digital engineering, intelligent energy systems, automation and asset integrity.

Modibbo Adama University will undertake research in energy transition and the environment. Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology will focus on sustainable energy innovation and climate-resilient food systems.

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka, will specialise in green energy production and geoenvironmental engineering, while Yakubu Gowon University, formerly the University of Abuja, will focus on geoscience and satellite intelligence for resilient gas infrastructure.

Each university will work towards agreed research targets and commercialisation pathways, providing a framework for measuring progress and translating findings into practical applications. The institutions will also jointly host an information management hub to support knowledge sharing and exchange programmes.

The funding includes provision for minor civil works and infrastructure upgrades to transform identified spaces into fit-for-purpose research centres.

Proposed arrangements would enable industry professionals to contribute practical expertise in technical and non-technical disciplines while pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees. This would give students greater exposure to industry experience while strengthening the connection between postgraduate study and practical problem-solving.

The programme reinforces NLNG’s commitment to developing Nigerian capability and creating opportunities for local expertise to address industry needs, guided by its recently approved ‘NextGen Nigerian Content Strategy’ where NLNG plans to Sustain the gains through focused delivery of previous commitments in alignment with NCDMB; Enable its business by facilitating deeper adoption Nigerian Content Development as a business principle and Accelerate growth by showing up and support the Nigerian Content transformation for posterity, in line with its vision of inspiring a sustainable future.

By Tochukwu Jimo Obi

Sixty six years after independence, Nigeria should be asking itself a question that can no longer be postponed: what exactly has become of the great promise of our nation? A country blessed with enormous human and natural resources should not, at this stage of its journey, still be struggling with problems that ought to have become distant memories.

As we mark 66 years of independence, this should be more than another occasion for colourful ceremonies, patriotic speeches and celebrations. It is a time for sober reflection as a people, to examine where we are, where we ought to be and, most importantly, how best to move Nigeria forward.

Undoubtedly, Nigeria is not where it used to be. There have been significant developments in different sectors of the economy and society, and successive administrations have introduced policies and programmes aimed at addressing the country’s challenges. However, we must also acknowledge that we are certainly not where we ought to be, considering the enormous human and natural resources available to us. A nation blessed with abundant natural resources, a large youthful population and considerable human capital should be able to provide a higher standard of living for its citizens.

At 66, Nigeria should have no reason to still be battling with inadequate power supply, dilapidated roads, massive unemployment and widespread hunger. These are challenges that have persisted for decades, despite the huge resources committed to addressing them. While some of our past and present leaders may have done, or may still be doing, their best, the reality remains that their efforts alone have not been enough to solve the numerous problems bedevilling the nation. What Nigeria requires is sustained commitment, effective institutions, accountability and policies that go beyond individual administrations.

Corruption and insecurity also continue to pose serious challenges to national development. Resources that should be channelled towards infrastructure, education, healthcare, job creation and other essential services can be undermined by corruption and poor accountability. Similarly, insecurity discourages investment, disrupts economic activities and threatens the lives and livelihoods of citizens. We cannot continue like this as a nation. There must be a collective determination to strengthen institutions, uphold the rule of law and confront the factors that continue to undermine national development.

Unfortunately, the people themselves appear to have become accustomed to many of these perennial problems. This has contributed to a situation where some citizens fail to demand accountability from leaders or make effective use of their democratic power during elections. Democracy gives citizens the opportunity to choose their representatives and to replace those whose performance does not meet their expectations. Elections should therefore be about competence, integrity, policies and the ability to serve the public interest, rather than personal loyalty or temporary benefits.

Sycophancy has also become increasingly visible in our political space. Some people praise leaders excessively for personal gain, defend actions they would ordinarily condemn and, in some cases, sell their votes during elections, only to complain about bad leadership afterwards. Citizens must understand that leadership and followership are interconnected. When voters trade their electoral power for immediate personal benefits, they may be contributing to a system that makes it more difficult to demand responsible governance later. The ballot should be treated as an important instrument for shaping the future of the country.

As Nigeria marks this 66th anniversary, our leaders at all levels must put the interest of the nation at the centre of their decisions and actions. Religious, political and ethnic considerations should not be allowed to take precedence over the collective interest of Nigeria. Diversity should be a source of strength rather than a reason for division. Those entrusted with public office must remember that political positions are temporary, while the consequences of decisions taken in office can affect generations yet unborn.

The people also have an important role to play in moving Nigeria forward. Citizens must obey the law, reject corruption, participate responsibly in elections, demand accountability and contribute positively to their communities. Professionals must give their best in their respective fields, young people must be encouraged to pursue productive opportunities, and the private sector must continue to contribute to economic development. Nation building cannot be left entirely to government. Every Nigerian has a responsibility to contribute to the Nigeria we desire.

At 66, the question, therefore, is not simply which way Nigeria, but what kind of Nigeria do we want to leave for the next generation? The answer lies in our collective willingness to change the things that have held us back, strengthen the institutions that sustain democracy and development, and place national interest above personal, political, religious and ethnic considerations. Nigeria has the resources, talent and potential to achieve greatness. What is required is the collective will to translate that potential into reality. As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us renew our commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous and united nation. Nigeria shall be great again.

Tochukwu Jimo Obi, Obosi Anambra state.

By Tambaya Julius, Abuja

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has concluded the final phase of its 2025 recruitment exercise, with nearly 3,000 shortlisted candidates undergoing screening in an exercise the Service said recorded improved coordination and efficiency.

The two-week exercise, held at the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Gwagwalada, Abuja, commenced on September 7 and ended on September 19, 2026.

Candidates shortlisted for the Assistant Superintendent of Customs II (ASCII), Inspectorate and Customs Assistant cadres underwent documentation, physical fitness assessments and medical screening as part of the final stages of the recruitment process.

The exercise was conducted in batches, a measure introduced by the Service to reduce congestion and ensure smoother movement of candidates through the various screening points.

Speaking on the exercise, the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Human Resource Development, Frank Onyeka, said the Service had addressed challenges identified during the earlier phase of the recruitment process.

According to him, measures were introduced to improve coordination and reduce congestion at the screening centres.

“We have put measures in place to reduce congestion and ensure a smoother process this week. The gaps identified last week have been addressed, and we do not expect them to recur this week,” Onyeka said.

He urged candidates to remain disciplined and comply with the procedures established for the exercise.

The Service also introduced personalised screening forms as part of efforts to strengthen verification and minimise discrepancies in candidates’ records.

The Deputy Comptroller of Customs and member of the recruitment coordinating team, Adamu Musa, said each shortlisted candidate was provided with a form containing personal information and details required for the various stages of the screening.

He said the approach represented a departure from the previous system in which candidates received forms at the screening venue.

“Any candidate that has been shortlisted has a form designed especially for him, unlike in the past where you come, they issue you a form, and then some people along the way go and even change some of the records,” Musa explained.

According to him, the forms contained candidates’ names and other details covering sports, medical assessment, documentation and related requirements.

“So, once the candidate comes, you just verify what you already have from the system,” he added.

Musa said the new arrangement had made it easier for officials to authenticate candidates’ information while reducing opportunities for alterations and discrepancies.

The recruitment team also assessed candidates against established requirements, including age, physical fitness and drug screening.

Musa disclosed that candidates who test positive for hard drugs, exceed the stipulated age requirement or are found to have physical conditions that could affect their ability to perform their duties may be disqualified, subject to the final decision of the Service’s management.

He also stressed the importance of continuous recruitment and manpower development, noting that the expanding responsibilities of the Customs Service require personnel capable of responding to emerging challenges.

According to him, a well-trained workforce remains important to the Service’s responsibilities in national security, border protection, revenue collection and trade facilitation.

The Service also warned candidates and members of the public against relying on unverified information about the recruitment exercise.

Musa urged applicants to obtain recruitment updates only through the official communication channels of the Nigeria Customs Service, including its official website and verified social media platforms.

He warned that fraudsters could exploit the recruitment process by circulating fake announcements, misleading applicants or making unauthorised demands.

The warning comes as the Service moves towards the next stages of the recruitment process following the completion of the final screening exercise.

With the introduction of personalised forms, batch screening and tighter verification procedures, the NCS said it had strengthened the process to improve efficiency, reduce congestion and protect the integrity of the recruitment exercise.