If you’re looking to learn a practical skill without paying school fees, Nigeria’s government runs several free skill acquisition programs every year. These programs are built to reduce unemployment, support small businesses, and help young people earn a living through hands-on training. Most of them also give you starter packs, certificates, or access to low-interest loans after you complete the training. Here are the top 7 you can apply for in 2026: 1. N-Power Program. N-Power is one of the most popular federal programs under the National Social Investment Programme. It’s split into graduate and non-graduate streams.   What you learn: Teaching, agriculture, health, ICT, and creative skills.   What you get: Free training, monthly stipend, and work experience for 6–12 months.   How to apply: Keep an eye on the official N-Power portal when applications open. You’ll need your NIN, BVN, and a valid email. 2. SMEDAN Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneu...

 At 41 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo did what he’s always done: deliver when it matters most. His brace against Damac sealed a 4-1 win for Al Nassr at Al-Awwal Park, clinching the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League title and ending the club’s seven-year wait for domestic silverware.  It’s Ronaldo’s first league title with Al Nassr and his first domestic league crown since winning Serie A with Juventus in 2020. The Portuguese icon was in tears on the bench before lifting the trophy, bringing an emotional close to a three-year quest for silverware in Saudi Arabia. Al Nassr knew only a win would guarantee the title. Al Hilal had kept the pressure on with a win over Al Fayha, and the head-to-head tiebreaker favored Jorge Jesus’ rivals. But from the 31st minute, the Knights of Najd looked in control. Sadio Mané opened the scoring with a header from João Félix’s corner. Kingsley Coman doubled the lead early in the second half with a composed finish after cutting in from...

England manager Thomas Tuchel has dropped a bombshell ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, leaving Phil Foden and Cole Palmer out of the final 26-man squad while handing call-ups to Ivan Toney and Kobbie Mainoo. The decision has sparked debate across the country, with fans and pundits split over whether Tuchel has got it right. The Shock Omissions Phil Foden’s absence is the biggest surprise. The Manchester City midfielder has been one of the Premier League’s standout performers over the last two seasons, winning the PFA Player of the Year in 2024 and playing a key role in City’s domestic dominance. Known for his close control, vision, and ability to play anywhere across the front line, Foden was expected to be a central figure in England’s World Cup campaign. Cole Palmer’s exclusion is equally eyebrow-raising. After a breakout year at Chelsea, Palmer finished as one of the league’s top scorers and assist providers from midfield. His composure from the penalty spot...

The Central Bank of Nigeria regularly updates its cash policy to manage liquidity, reduce cash-related crimes, and push more transactions into the digital system. The latest cash withdrawal limits affect how individuals and businesses can access cash over the counter, at ATMs, and through third-party agents. For small business owners, understanding these changes is key to avoiding disruptions in daily operations. What the New Limits Look Like As of the 2026 update, the Central Bank of Nigeria has set weekly cash withdrawal limits at *₦500,000 for individuals* and *₦5,000,000 for corporate accounts*. Anything above these amounts attracts processing fees. Over-the-counter withdrawals above the limit incur a fee of 3% for individuals and 5% for corporate accounts. ATM and POS withdrawals beyond the weekly limit are also subject to charges. These limits apply to the total amount withdrawn across all channels in a week, from Monday to Sunday. The policy covers both naira and for...

If you’re planning to vote, the first thing to confirm is that your voter registration is active and your details are correct. Checking online takes under 5 minutes and saves you from surprises on Election Day. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide you can follow from your phone or computer. Why Check Your Voter Registration Status Your registration can change without you noticing. You might be moved to inactive status if you haven’t voted in a while, moved to a new address, or if there was a data update. Checking online lets you confirm: 1. *You’re registered* and eligible to vote in the upcoming election 2. *Your address and polling unit* are correct 3. *Your name is spelled correctly* on the voters’ register 4. *Your voter ID number* is still valid Doing this early gives you time to fix any issues before the deadline. Step 1: Go to the Official Election Website Always use the official portal for your country. For Nigeria, that’s the Independent National Electoral Commission...

Gunmen attacked three schools in Oriire LGA, Oyo State, last Friday, abducting 25 pupils and teachers and killing two educators. Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed that 7 students were taken from Community Secondary School, while 18 children and 7 teachers were abducted from First Baptist Primary and Nursery School. One teacher was killed during the attack, and a second teacher was later killed in captivity. Rescue operations are ongoing. Makinde said the state has set up an operational center at the Police Headquarters and is working with all security agencies to secure the victims’ release. Police have arrested six suspects accused of acting as informants for the attackers. Investigations show the suspects communicated with the bandits about routes and hideouts in the area. Makinde said the government is prepared to listen to the abductors’ demands to secure the safe release of the victims.

 Aston Villa are European champions again. Unai Emery’s side thrashed SC Freiburg 3-0 in the UEFA Europa League final at Istanbul’s Tüpraş Stadium, clinching the club’s first major trophy since 1996 and their first European silverware since the 1982 European Cup. A night of dominance in Istanbul Villa took control before half-time. Youri Tielemans opened the scoring in the 41st minute with a volley off a Morgan Rogers cross. Three minutes later, Emiliano Buendía doubled the lead with a strike from outside the box. Morgan Rogers put the result beyond doubt in the 58th minute, sliding in Buendía’s low cross to make it 3-0. Freiburg never recovered, and Villa saw out the game to lift the trophy. 1. End of the wait: Villa’s last trophy was the 1995/96 League Cup. Fans have waited 30 years for this moment. 2. European pedigree restored: This is Villa’s second European trophy, adding to their 1982 European Cup win. 3. Champions League football: The victory secures...

Pascal Okechukwu, better known as Cubana Chief Priest, has lost the All Progressives Congress primary for the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency in Imo State. The nightlife entrepreneur and South-East City Boy Movement coordinator was defeated by incumbent lawmaker Canice More Nwachukwu, who is serving his second term in the House of Representatives.  Cubana Chief Priest bought the APC nomination and expression of interest forms in April 2026 and officially declared his bid for the 2027 general elections. He said his ambition was to focus on youth empowerment and grassroots development. The primary was held as part of APC’s preparations for 2027. Governor Hope Uzodinma met with aspirants beforehand but did not endorse anyone, urging them to test their popularity at the grassroots. The loss ends his first attempt at elective office. The result has sparked mixed reactions online, with some mocking the defeat and others saying it’s part of the ...