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  • Jim Iyke Says ‘School Na Scam’ Has Some Truth, Sparks Debate

    Veteran Nollywood actor Jim Iyke has sparked conversations after saying there is “some truth” to the popular phrase “school na scam,” arguing that formal education is not always the key to financial success.

    The actor made the remarks during an interview on Joey Akan’s podcast, where he reflected on education, wealth and his personal journey.

    ‘I’m doing better than my lecturers’

    Jim Iyke said he currently earns more than all of his former lecturers, recalling an encounter with one of them during a flight.

    “There’s some truth to ‘school na scam’. I am doing better than all my lecturers.”

    He also disclosed that one of his employees holds a PhD, adding that many of the lessons that helped him build wealth came from experienced traders and mentors rather than the classroom.

    According to the actor, practical knowledge and life experience have contributed more to his financial success than academic learning.

    Mixed reactions trail comments

    The actor’s remarks quickly went viral, generating mixed reactions across social media.

    Some Nigerians agreed with his position, arguing that entrepreneurship, vocational skills and self-development have created opportunities for many people despite the country’s difficult job market.

    Others disagreed, insisting that formal education remains essential for developing critical thinking, professional competence and nation-building, especially in fields such as medicine, engineering and science.

    Education and success debate continues

    Jim Iyke, who studied Philosophy and also earned a banking diploma from the University of Jos, joins a growing list of public figures whose comments have reignited the long-running debate over the value of higher education in Nigeria.

    His statement comes at a time when many graduates continue to face unemployment and underemployment, while some entrepreneurs without university degrees have achieved remarkable financial success.

  • Portable Opens Up on Hawking Pure Water, Family Struggles, Plans to Return to School

    Controversial Nigerian singer Portable has opened up about his difficult upbringing, revealing that he hawked pure water to support himself through school without sponsorship and was once regarded as the “olodo” (underachiever) in his family.

    The singer made the disclosure during a recent appearance on The Honest Bunch podcast, where he reflected on his journey from hardship to becoming the family’s breadwinner.

    ‘I sponsored myself through school’

    Speaking during the interview, Portable said while his father was able to sponsor the education of his siblings, he had to fend for himself by selling sachet water while pursuing his studies.

    The singer disclosed that he is a Business Administration student at Kwara State Polytechnic and intends to return to complete his education.

    He also explained that despite being underestimated while growing up, he now bears the responsibility of providing for his parents and siblings.

    Fans react to singer’s story

    Portable’s remarks have generated widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians applauding his resilience and determination.

    Some users described his story as proof that success is not determined solely by academic performance, while others praised him for supporting his family despite his humble beginnings.

    The interview has continued to trend online, with many highlighting his journey from street hustler to successful entertainer.

  • Top 10 News Updates You Should Know Today

    1. FG Moves to Scrap JSS/SSS Structure to Reduce School Dropouts

    The Federal Government has announced plans to abolish the separation between Junior Secondary School and Senior Secondary School as part of sweeping education reforms aimed at reducing Nigeria’s out-of-school population, estimated at more than 20 million children. Education authorities said the current structure has contributed to high dropout rates, particularly after the junior secondary level.

    Officials said the proposed reform will create a more seamless learning system while improving student retention and aligning education with national development priorities. Stakeholders have welcomed the initiative but are calling for broad consultations before implementation begins, with pilot programmes expected in selected states.

    2. Gunmen Abduct Students During Exams in Borno, Troops Rescue Some

    Armed men attacked a secondary school in Lassa, Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, abducting students sitting for national examinations. Security forces launched a rescue operation shortly after the attack, freeing several students and teachers, although some victims are still missing.

    The incident has renewed concerns about the safety of schools in conflict-affected communities. Parents and education stakeholders have urged the government to strengthen security around examination centres as military operations continue in the area.

    3. Court Grants Sowore N200 Million Bail

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted activist and publisher Omoyele Sowore bail in the sum of N200 million in his ongoing cybercrime trial. The court ordered him to produce two sureties and surrender his international passport pending the conclusion of the case.

    The ruling comes after an earlier revocation of his bail and has drawn reactions from supporters and civil society groups. Proceedings in the trial will continue as the court considers the substantive charges against him.

    4. Third Batch of Nigerians Evacuated from South Africa Arrives

    The third batch of Nigerians evacuated from South Africa has arrived in Lagos under the Federal Government’s voluntary repatriation programme following renewed xenophobic tensions. Officials received the returnees at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport and assured them of necessary support.

    The evacuation follows weeks of anti-immigrant protests in parts of South Africa. Nigerian authorities say more flights will be arranged as efforts continue to bring home citizens who registered for the programme.

    5. Tinubu Inaugurates New Road Projects

    President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated additional road infrastructure projects as part of his administration’s efforts to stimulate economic growth through improved transportation networks. The projects are expected to enhance connectivity, create jobs and support commercial activities.

    Government officials said infrastructure development remains a key component of ongoing economic reforms. More projects are expected to be commissioned in different parts of the country in the coming months.

    6. ASUU Issues Fresh Strike Warning to State Governments

    The Academic Staff Union of Universities has threatened industrial action in some state-owned universities over the non-implementation of agreements reached in 2025. The union accused affected state governments of failing to address welfare issues, funding and other outstanding commitments.

    The warning has raised concerns among students and parents over possible disruptions to academic activities. Discussions between the union and government officials are expected to continue in an effort to avert another strike.

    7. NDC Uploads Peter Obi’s Name on INEC Portal

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress has uploaded the name of Peter Obi and other party candidates on the INEC portal while challenging a court decision affecting the party’s registration. The move comes as legal proceedings over the party’s status continue.

    The development has generated fresh political discussions ahead of the 2027 general election. Party officials insist they remain confident of a favourable outcome as the appeal process continues.

    8. Nigerian Tech Firm Launches AI Workforce Platform

    Radiant diGiLog has unveiled an artificial intelligence-powered workforce management platform designed to help organisations manage attendance, payroll, scheduling and human resource operations more efficiently.

    Technology experts say the platform reflects the continued growth of Nigeria’s digital economy and increasing adoption of AI solutions by local businesses. The company plans to expand partnerships with organisations across different sectors.

    9. Delta Police Report Progress Against Kidnapping

    The Delta State Police Command says it has recorded major successes in the fight against kidnapping and armed robbery through intelligence-led operations across the state. Authorities said recent operations resulted in several arrests and the recovery of weapons.

    Residents have welcomed the reported progress but urged security agencies to sustain the momentum. Police say investigations remain ongoing as they target other criminal groups.

    10. African Stars Shine in Race for FIFA Best Young Player Award

    Five African footballers have emerged among the leading contenders for the FIFA Best Young Player Award at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup. Their performances have attracted global attention and generated excitement across the continent.

    Football analysts say the emergence of young African talents highlights the continent’s growing influence on the global stage. Nigerian fans have also followed the competition closely despite the Super Eagles’ absence from the tournament.

     

  • NELFUND Warns Schools Against Withholding Students’ Tuition Refunds, Arbitrary Fee Hikes

    The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has warned tertiary institutions against delaying or refusing to refund tuition fees paid by students before the disbursement of student loans, while also raising concerns over arbitrary increases in school charges.

    The agency said such practices undermine the objective of the Student Loan Scheme, which was established to remove financial barriers to higher education rather than create additional burdens for students and their families.

    NELFUND raises concern

    In a statement issued on Monday, NELFUND said it had received reports that some institutions were withholding refunds due to students whose tuition had already been paid before the loan disbursements were made.

    “The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has noted with concern reports of some tertiary institutions delaying or refusing to refund students whose tuition fees had already been paid before NELFUND disbursements, as well as arbitrary increases in tuition and other institutional charges,” the statement said.

    Agency begins engagement with schools

    NELFUND said it had commenced engagements with the affected institutions and relevant authorities to ensure that eligible students receive their refunds without delay.

    The Fund also stressed that institutional charges must remain fair, transparent and consistent with the objectives of the student loan programme.

    According to the agency, it will not tolerate any action that places unnecessary financial pressure on beneficiaries of the scheme.

    Students advised to engage institutions

    The development follows reports that some students who paid their tuition out of pocket before receiving loan approval have struggled to recover their money after NELFUND paid the same fees directly to their institutions.

    Although the agency did not identify the institutions involved, it said targeted interventions were already underway.

    NELFUND advised affected students to continue engaging their institutions while efforts to resolve the issue continue.

     

  • NELFUND Denies Suspending ₦20,000 Student Upkeep Allowance

    The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has dismissed viral claims suggesting that student upkeep allowances under its scheme have been suspended, describing the reports as false and misleading.

    In a statement released by the agency, NELFUND condemned the circulation of what it described as a fabricated newspaper front page and fake letter alleging that upkeep payments had been stopped.

    NELFUND Rejects Viral Claims

    According to the agency, the documents being circulated online were completely fake and did not originate from the Fund.

    NELFUND also disclosed that The Nigerian Tribune, whose name and identity were allegedly used in the fake publication, confirmed that the front page was fabricated.

    The agency urged students and members of the public to disregard the reports and rely only on verified communication channels for official updates.

    ₦20,000 Monthly Stipend Still Active

    NELFUND currently provides interest-free loans to eligible Nigerian tertiary institution students, including a monthly upkeep allowance of ₦20,000.

    The Fund stated that the programme remains active and continues to support students across the country despite the false reports circulating online.

    According to the agency, more than 1.5 million Nigerian students are currently benefiting from the scheme nationwide.

    Agency Confirms ₦98 Billion Disbursement

    The Fund further disclosed that it has continued to process and disburse payments to beneficiaries, with recent disbursements reportedly exceeding ₦98 billion.

    NELFUND admitted that some students may experience delays due to technical and processing challenges but insisted that applications and payments have not been suspended.

    The agency appealed to students to remain patient while efforts continue to resolve outstanding technical issues affecting some beneficiaries.

    Students Asked To Follow Official Channels

    NELFUND advised students awaiting payments or updates to continue monitoring its official portal and verified communication platforms for accurate information.

    The agency also warned against spreading unverified reports capable of causing confusion among applicants and beneficiaries.

    The controversy comes amid growing public attention on Nigeria’s student loan scheme, which was introduced to improve access to higher education financing for students across tertiary institutions.

  • ASUU Threatens Fresh Strike Over Delayed Implementation of 2025 FG Agreement

    The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has threatened fresh industrial action over the Federal Government’s alleged delay in fully implementing key provisions of the 2025 FGN-ASUU agreement.

    The warning comes amid growing tension between the union and government over salary arrears, allowances, and funding concerns affecting public universities across Nigeria.

    ASUU Raises Alarm Over Implementation

    According to the union, several aspects of the agreement signed in December 2025 and unveiled in January 2026 have not been fully implemented.

    These include salary adjustments, earned academic allowances, responsibility allowances, and improved funding for universities.

    ASUU also faulted the non-inauguration of the full Implementation Monitoring Committee (IMC), which was meant to oversee compliance with the agreement.

    Key Grievances

    The union highlighted delays in payment of salary components in some institutions, with reports of outstanding arrears running into months in certain zones.

    It also expressed concern over disparities in implementation between federal and state universities, describing the situation as inconsistent and unfair.

    Zonal coordinators across regions including Abuja, Akure, Kano, Sokoto, Benin, Lagos, and Jos have reportedly voiced frustration over what they described as slow government response.

    Government Response

    The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, has reportedly dismissed some of ASUU’s claims, insisting that progress is being made and that efforts are ongoing to prevent another prolonged strike in the university system.

    However, ASUU maintains that the situation on the ground does not reflect government assurances, insisting that commitments made in the agreement are yet to be fully honoured.

    Students and Public Reaction

    The development has triggered mixed reactions online, with many students expressing concern over possible disruptions to the academic calendar.

    Some Nigerians have criticised both parties, citing the recurring nature of ASUU disputes and the long history of strikes affecting university education.

    Possible Strike Looms

    While no strike has been declared yet, ASUU warned that continued delays could force it into nationwide industrial action if urgent steps are not taken.

    The situation adds to ongoing concerns about funding, welfare, and stability in Nigeria’s public university system.

  • JAMB Fixes June 13 for 2026 UTME Mop-Up Exam for Affected Candidates

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced Saturday, June 13, 2026, as the date for the conduct of the mop-up Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for candidates who were unable to sit for the 2026 examination despite being successfully biometrically verified.

    The examination body disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday by its spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin.

    According to JAMB, the mop-up exercise is specifically for candidates who presented themselves for the 2026 UTME but could not take the examination due to technical glitches and related challenges recorded during the nationwide exercise conducted between April 23 and April 29, 2026.

    JAMB Explains Reason for Mop-Up Exam

    The board said several centres experienced technical difficulties during the examination period, preventing some candidates from writing the UTME despite completing the required verification process.

    “The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has fixed Saturday, 13th June, 2026, for the conduct of the UTME mop-up examination for all candidates who presented themselves and were biometrically verified for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination but were unable to sit the examination for one reason or another,” the statement read.

    JAMB added that all affected candidates already identified by the board would be accommodated during the mop-up exercise.

    Candidates With Verification Issues Included

    The board also disclosed that some candidates who appeared for the examination but could not be successfully biometrically verified had equally been captured among those to be considered in the final mop-up arrangement.

    It further revealed that some examination results had earlier been withdrawn due to examination malpractice and infractions recorded during the UTME process.

    JAMB described the mop-up examination as the concluding phase of the annual UTME process aimed at resolving every pending issue involving candidates affected during the examination exercise.

    Candidates Asked to Print Notification Slips

    The board advised affected candidates to begin printing their examination notification slips from Saturday, June 6, 2026.

    Candidates were also urged to familiarise themselves with their examination centres and make adequate preparations ahead of the examination date.

    “Affected candidates are hereby urged to print their Examination Notification Slips, familiarise themselves with their examination centres, and make all necessary arrangements ahead of the examination date, as there will be no further opportunity for any candidate to sit the 2026 UTME after this mop-up exercise,” JAMB stated.

    2026 UTME Admission Process Continues

    Over two million candidates participated in the 2026 UTME conducted nationwide in April.

    JAMB has since released the results and retained the minimum admission cut-off marks at 150 for universities and 100 for polytechnics.

    The board has also opened its portal for candidates seeking change of course or institution for the 2026 admission cycle.

  • ASUU Rejects FG’s Plan To Scrap ‘Irrelevant’ University Courses

    The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has rejected the Federal Government’s reported plan to phase out certain university courses considered “irrelevant” to current labour market demands.

    The union described the proposed move as dangerous and a direct threat to academic freedom and university autonomy in Nigeria.

    ASUU, in a statement issued by its Benin Zone, insisted that all academic programmes remain important to national development and warned against government interference in university curriculum decisions.

    ASUU faults proposed course review

    The controversy follows recent comments credited to the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, who reportedly said the government intended to align university programmes with modern economic realities and global trends.

    Reports indicated that some humanities and social science-related courses were being considered for review or possible discontinuation over concerns about employability and labour market relevance.

    Reacting to the development, ASUU maintained that universities should retain the exclusive right to determine their academic programmes through their governing structures and senates.

    “Universities are not technical colleges. They are centres of knowledge creation and dissemination. Every discipline has its place in national development,” a source within the union stated.

    Union warns against interference

    ASUU also warned that any attempt by the Federal Government to dictate courses offered in universities could weaken the country’s higher education system.

    The union vowed to resist what it described as efforts to commercialise and vocationalise university education at the expense of critical thinking and broader intellectual development.

    The disagreement further adds to the strained relationship between ASUU and the Federal Government following unresolved issues surrounding previous agreements reached with the union.

    Concerns over another crisis

    Stakeholders within the education sector have continued to call for dialogue between both parties to avoid another industrial crisis in public universities.

    As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Ministry of Education had not officially responded to ASUU’s latest position on the matter.

  • JAMB Speaks On Delay In Printing 2026 UTME Original Result Slips

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced that printing of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) original result slips has not yet been activated, urging candidates nationwide to remain patient.

    JAMB spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday.

    Why Printing Has Not Started

    According to the board, the delay is connected to the completion of foreign examinations and preparations for the mop-up examination for candidates who missed the main UTME through no fault of theirs.

    “The printing of the 2026 UTME Original Result Slip has not yet been activated. Candidates are kindly urged to be patient as the Board has just concluded the foreign examinations and is also preparing to conduct the mop-up examination for candidates who were unable to sit for the main examination through no fault of theirs,” the statement read.

    JAMB explained that the UTME remains a ranking examination and that the original result slip contains the ranking position of candidates, making it necessary for all pending processes to be completed before the portal is activated.

    “Candidates are reminded that the UTME is a ranking examination, and the Original Result Slip contains the ranking of candidates. Consequently, all necessary processes must be completed before the slips can be released,” Benjamin added.

    Candidates Await Portal Activation

    The examination body assured candidates that the portal for printing the original result slips would be activated once all adjustments had been finalised.

    “As soon as the necessary adjustments are concluded, the printing portal will be activated. This will be done shortly, and candidates will be duly informed when to proceed with the printing of their result slips,” the statement added.

    JAMB also apologised for the delay and appealed for understanding from candidates and stakeholders.

    Candidates Express Frustration

    The development has triggered frustration among several candidates online, with many saying they urgently need access to their result slips for post-UTME screening, admission processing, and change of course or institution applications.

    The board had earlier enabled candidates to check their UTME scores through SMS using their registered phone numbers.

    The latest update comes weeks after JAMB announced 150 as the cut-off mark for university admission for the 2026 academic session.

  • Oyo School Abduction: Kidnapped Principal, Nursing Mother Plead For Help In Viral Video

    Terrorists who abducted students and staff of Community High School, Esinele in Oyo State have released a video showing the school principal and another victim appealing for urgent rescue.

    The victims were reportedly kidnapped during an attack on the school on Friday morning, an incident that has sparked fresh concerns over rising insecurity in parts of the South-West.

    Principal Pleads For Government Intervention

    In the video, the principal of the school, Mrs Alamu, confirmed that students and staff were taken during the attack, urging authorities to act swiftly to secure their release.

    She appealed directly to the Federal Government, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the Christian Association of Nigeria, and well-meaning Nigerians to intervene.

    According to her, the abducted victims are in distress and need urgent help to return safely to their families.

    Nursing Mother Breaks Down In Tears

    In a separate clip, a nursing mother identified as Aiyedaunsi Temitope also appealed for assistance, describing the ordeal as traumatic.

    She said she previously worked at First Baptist Church in Ogbomosho before the attack and pleaded for negotiations to secure their release.

    “They are all crying… please help us so we will not lose our lives,” she said tearfully in the video.

    Growing Security Concerns

    The incident adds to growing fears over repeated school attacks and kidnappings in different parts of the country, with residents calling for stronger security presence around vulnerable communities.

    Authorities are yet to issue an official update on rescue efforts or the number of victims affected.