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  • FG Launches Students’ Tax Reform Challenge, Offers ₦10m In Prizes

    The Federal Government has launched the Students’ Tax Reform Challenge, a nationwide competition aimed at engaging Nigerian students and young graduates on the country’s ongoing tax reforms, with cash prizes totaling ₦10 million and other incentives.

    The initiative, unveiled by the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, is designed to promote tax education, stimulate informed public discourse and encourage youth participation in Nigeria’s tax reform process.

    According to the organisers, winners of the competition will receive cash prizes, tech gadgets, employment and internship opportunities, training scholarships and branded materials.

    A breakdown of the cash rewards shows that the first prize winner will receive ₦5 million, the second prize ₦3 million, while the third prize will get ₦2 million.

    In addition, consolation prizes will be awarded to the top 10 finalists from each geopolitical zone, including gadgets, internships or employment opportunities, as well as honours as Tax Reform Youth Ambassadors.

    The committee said the challenge is open to undergraduate students of Nigerian universities, polytechnics and colleges of education, as well as graduates currently serving in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) or awaiting mobilisation.

    Eligible participants may enter as individuals or through their institutions’ tax clubs, economics, accounting or journalism associations.

    The organisers explained that entries could be submitted in English, Pidgin, Hausa, Igbo or Yoruba to ensure inclusivity and wider reach. However, entries in local languages must be accompanied by an English translation.

    Submissions are expected to be published works such as articles, videos, podcasts, radio pieces or social media content related to Nigeria’s tax reforms. Videos or podcasts must not exceed 10 minutes.

    The committee emphasised that submissions should be educative, engaging and fact-based, noting that entries critical of the tax reforms are also welcome.

    Outlining the objectives of the challenge, the committee said it seeks to raise awareness and promote tax education among young Nigerians, encourage balanced and fact-based narratives on tax issues, and develop a pipeline of informed youth ambassadors to support constructive public engagement.

    It added that the initiative is also intended to position tax reform as a tool for strengthening the social contract, highlighting citizens’ civic responsibilities alongside government accountability.

    As part of the incentives, each finalist’s students’ association or tax, economics or journalism club will receive a ₦2 million recognition grant to organise a tax education event within their institution.

    All finalists will also be designated Tax Reform Youth Ambassadors and given opportunities to participate in national engagements related to fiscal policy and taxation.

    Entries will be assessed based on objectivity and balance, technical accuracy, clarity and creativity, as well as public engagement and impact, including evidence of audience reach such as views, shares or discussions generated.
    Applications for the Students’ Tax Reform Challenge will close on Dec. 31, 2025.

    Interested candidates are required to submit their entries through the official application portal provided by the organisers.

  • January 1 Not Deadline For Tax Identification Number – A’ibom Revenue Service Boss

    The Executive Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Internal Revenue Service (AKIRS), Mr Okon Okon, has dismissed claims that Nigerians would be denied access to their bank accounts from Jan. 1, 2026, if they do not possess a Tax Identification Number (TIN).

    Okon described the reports as false and misleading, stressing that Jan. 1, 2026, is not a deadline for obtaining a Tax ID.

    The revenue service boss, who is also a member of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, made the clarification on Tuesday in Uyo while delivering a presentation on the implementation of the new national tax regime to stakeholders from the organised private sector.

    “There has been so much talk about Tax ID in the last month, and the turnout to register has been unprecedented,” he said.

    “This is because Nigerians have been misinformed that from Jan. 1, 2026, they will not be able to access their bank accounts without a Tax ID. This is not correct. It is not true.”
    Okon assured Nigerians that access to bank accounts would not be restricted because of the absence of a TIN, adding that the registration process would be spread throughout the year.

    “You will still have access to your account without your Tax ID, but you will definitely have it in the course of the year. What I am saying clearly is that Jan. 1 is not the deadline for Tax ID,” he said.

    “So, go and tell your families and friends to relax.”

    He further clarified that funds held in bank accounts are not subject to taxation, as they do not qualify as income under tax laws.

    “We are not taxing money in your account because money in your account does not represent income. In taxation, we tax income,” Okon explained.

    The AKIRS chairman disclosed that the Joint Tax Board (JTB) had developed a digital platform that allows individuals to generate a TIN within seconds.

    According to him, the platform enables taxpayers to obtain their TIN using their National Identification Number (NIN) and date of birth.

    “The Joint Tax Board has come up with a website where, in about 20 seconds, you can generate your Tax ID yourself. All you need is your NIN and your date of birth, and the ID will be issued,” he said.

    Okon added that once the platform becomes fully operational in January, banks would also be able to assist customers in generating their TINs where necessary.

    “So, if you don’t have it, there is no need to rush. By January, the website will be fully launched, and if you go to the bank, the bank will do it for you,” he said.

    He commended Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom for supporting the Revenue Service in its sensitisation and awareness campaigns across key stakeholder groups in the state.
    Highlighting the impact of the ongoing tax reforms, Okon revealed that Akwa Ibom State previously had about 63 different taxes imposed across the three tiers of government.

    He said the taxes comprised 17 federal, 25 state and 21 local government levies.

    “These have now been reduced to about 10 under the new tax reforms, with clear limits on what accrues to each tier of government, and provisions for negotiation where necessary to ensure equity and fairness,” he said.

    Okon noted that the new national tax reforms were designed to ease the tax burden on Nigerians, stimulate economic activities and promote sustainable growth and development.

    He said the fears and anxiety surrounding the reforms were unfounded, explaining that the new tax regime was aimed at addressing loopholes in the tax system, eliminating multiple taxation and curbing the activities of unauthorised tax collectors.

    “The reforms are meant to bring relief to Nigerians, boost economic activities and drive national development,” he said.

  • FIRS Clarifies NIN As Tax Identification Number For Individuals

    The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has clarified that the National Identification Number (NIN) issued by the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) now automatically serves as the Tax Identification Number (TIN) for individual Nigerians.

    The clarification was made on Monday as part of a public awareness campaign on the new tax laws, which the Service shared via its official X handle.

    According to the FIRS, the revised framework eliminates the need for individuals to obtain a separate TIN, as their NIN will henceforth function as their unique tax identifier.

    The Service also explained that registered businesses will no longer require a distinct Tax Identification Number, as their Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration number will now serve as their official tax identifier under the new system.

    The clarification follows public concerns over provisions in the new tax laws that require a Tax ID for certain transactions, including bank account ownership.

    The FIRS stated that the Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA), which is scheduled to take effect in January 2026, mandates the use of a Tax ID for specified financial and administrative transactions.

    It, however, emphasised that the requirement is not new, noting that it has existed since the enactment of the Finance Act of 2019 but has now been strengthened and consolidated under the NTAA.

    “The Tax ID unifies all Tax Identification Numbers previously issued by the FIRS and State Internal Revenue Services into a single identifier,” the Service said.

    It added that for individuals, the NIN automatically serves as the Tax ID, while for registered companies, the CAC Registration (RC) number is used.

    “You do not need a physical card, as the Tax ID is a unique number linked directly to your identity,” the FIRS said.

    The Service explained that the new system is designed to simplify taxpayer identification, eliminate duplication, curb tax evasion and promote equity by ensuring that all individuals with taxable income contribute appropriately.

    The FIRS further urged Nigerians to disregard misinformation surrounding the reform, assuring the public that the updated tax framework is aimed at improving efficiency, transparency and effectiveness in tax administration across the country.

  • WHO Unveils Global Library For Traditional Medicine

    The World Health Organisation (WHO) has unveiled the Traditional Medicine Global Library (TMGL), a pioneering digital platform designed to consolidate An The Apple Internship Programme has opened applications for its 2026 intake, offering students and recent graduates from across the world expand global access to credible information on traditional medicine.

    The platform, launched on Monday at the close of the Second WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine in New Delhi, brings together about 1.6 million resources, ranging from peer-reviewed scientific studies to documented Indigenous and traditional knowledge.

    The Director-General of WHO, Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, said the initiative marked a significant step toward strengthening evidence-based use of traditional medicine within modern health systems.

    According to him, the digital library is equipped with advanced tools such as Evidence Gap Maps and an artificial intelligence-powered assistant, TMGL GPT, which are expected to accelerate research, support policy decisions and improve access to trusted information globally.

    The summit, jointly organised by WHO and the Government of India, also featured the launch of Health and Heritage Innovations (H2I), an initiative aimed at supporting innovative solutions that bridge traditional medical practices with emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, genomics and digital health.

    Out of more than 1,000 submissions received globally, 21 finalists were selected and announced at the summit. The finalists are expected to undergo a one-year acceleration programme during which they will refine their innovations, receive scientific and regulatory guidance, and engage with policy-makers and potential investors.

    WHO further announced the establishment of the Strategic and Technical Advisory Group on Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine (STAG-TM) to provide expert guidance on the implementation of its global strategy on traditional medicine.

    The advisory body, made up of 19 independent experts, will focus on shaping research priorities, developing standards and advising countries on the safe and effective integration of traditional medicine into national health systems.

    At its inaugural meeting held during the summit, STAG-TM identified urgent priorities, including evidence generation, preservation of traditional knowledge, digital innovation and capacity building.

    The summit also witnessed strong political backing with 26 WHO Member States endorsing the Delhi Declaration, signalling renewed global commitment to advancing traditional medicine.

    The declaration emphasises the integration of traditional medicine into primary health care, strengthening regulatory and safety frameworks, increased investment in research, and the development of interoperable data systems to monitor outcomes.

    Dr Tedros said the commitment represented a shift from mere recognition of traditional medicine to concrete action.

    “Through the Delhi Commitment, countries have agreed not only on why traditional medicine matters, but on how to act,” he said.

    He added that traditional medicine could help address pressing global health challenges such as the rising burden of non-communicable diseases, inequitable access to health services and the health impacts of climate change.

    “Traditional medicine can support care that is person-centred, culturally grounded and holistic,” the WHO chief said.

    Looking ahead, WHO said it would continue to work with Member States to translate the commitments into action by scaling access to trusted knowledge, accelerating innovation and embedding traditional medicine into health systems worldwide.

    The summit drew more than 16,000 online registrations and brought together about 800 delegates from over 100 countries, including ministers from more than 20 nations.

    With contributions from 160 speakers, participants shared insights on how traditional medicine can strengthen health systems by providing safer, evidence-based and affordable care.

    WHO noted that the outcomes of the summit align with the Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034, which aims to promote inclusive, culturally grounded and resilient health systems worldwide.

  • Apple Unveils Internship Programme For Students, Graduates In 2026

    The Apple Internship Programme has opened applications for its 2026 intake, offering students and recent graduates from across the world the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with one of the world’s leading technology companies.

    The programme, organised by Apple Inc., is open to eligible candidates from all countries and provides interns with the chance to contribute directly to innovative products used by millions of Apple customers globally.

    According to information released by the organisers, successful applicants will receive a monthly stipend ranging from 7,000 to 9,000 dollars, depending on their location and role. The internship also comes with mentorship, networking opportunities and structured career development under the guidance of experienced professionals in the global tech industry.

    The company said the internship is designed for passionate and independent individuals interested in contributing to cutting-edge receiver architectures and wireless solutions that enhance customer experience across Apple products.

    A summary of the programme shows that it falls under the internship category, is open to candidates worldwide, and does not require IELTS. The deadline for applications varies depending on the specific programme.

    Eligibility Requirements
                                                                 To qualify for the 2026 Apple Internship Programme, applicants must meet several criteria. These include strong interpersonal and communication skills, particularly in English, and the ability to collaborate effectively within internal teams.

    Applicants with a background in Digital Signal Processing will have an added advantage. Candidates are also expected to demonstrate strong problem-solving abilities, a proactive attitude and a willingness to learn new skills.

    The programme is open to undergraduate and graduate students who are at least 18 years old. Eligible fields of study include Computer Science, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, Business, Marketing, Design, Data Science and other related disciplines.
    Benefits

    Apple stated that the internship offers competitive compensation aligned with current market rates and based on qualifications and experience. In addition to the monthly stipend, interns may receive relocation support and housing assistance where applicable.

    Other benefits include mentorship from Apple professionals, practical experience in building products with global impact, and the possibility of converting the internship into a full-time role. The duration of the internship is between 12 and 16 weeks, scheduled for Summer 2026 on a full-time basis.

    Application Process
                                                    Interested and qualified candidates are required to apply through the official application portal provided by the organisers. Applicants are advised to check specific programme requirements before submission, as deadlines vary.

    The organisers encouraged prospective applicants to regularly follow scholarship and internship updates through their official WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter and Telegram channels.

    They also advised applicants not to miss opportunities by setting reminders for scholarship and internship alerts.

    Further details and application links are available on the official Scholarship Region platform.

    Click Here To Apply;
    https://www.scholarshipregion.com/apple-internship-programme/

  • Brunei Govt Announces Fully Funded Scholarship For International Students

    The Government of Brunei Darussalam has announced the opening of applications for the Government of Brunei Darussalam Scholarship 2026, a fully funded programme for international students seeking to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate and diploma studies in the Asian nation.

    The scholarship, which is administered by Brunei’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is open to applicants from all countries of the world, with the exception of Bruneian citizens. It covers studies at the bachelor’s, master’s and diploma levels and does not require candidates to present International English Language Testing System (IELTS) results.

    According to information released by the organisers, the programme is designed to attract outstanding international students to Brunei’s higher institutions, while strengthening academic and cultural ties between Brunei and other countries.

    The Brunei Darussalam Government Scholarship is fully funded and provides beneficiaries with comprehensive financial support, including tuition and non-tuition expenses. Successful applicants are expected to commence their studies in July or August 2026, while English language proficiency will be assessed during an interview process.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which oversees the scholarship, is a cabinet-level institution responsible for managing Brunei’s foreign policy, international diplomatic missions and external relations. The ministry was established on Jan. 1, 1984, shortly after Brunei gained independence.

    Financial Benefits
    Under the scheme, beneficiaries will enjoy full coverage of admission-related costs, including testing, registration and orientation fees. The scholarship also provides a return economy-class air ticket to Brunei Darussalam, free accommodation, health insurance, baggage allowance, and living expenses.

    Living expenses include a monthly personal allowance, meal allowance and an annual book allowance throughout the duration of the programme.

    Participating Institutions
    The scholarship is tenable in five accredited higher institutions in Brunei. These include:
    •Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD)
    •Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA)
    •Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB)
    •Kolej Universiti Perguruan Ugama Seri Begawan (KUPU SB)
    •Politeknik Brunei (PB)

    Eligibility Criteria
    To be eligible, applicants must be non-Bruneian citizens and meet the age requirements specified by the programme. Candidates applying for undergraduate and diploma programmes must not be older than 25 years, while those applying for postgraduate master’s degrees must not exceed 35 years of age.
    Applicants are also required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
    Required Documents

    Applicants are expected to submit an online application form, a copy of a valid passport, academic transcripts, degree certificates (where applicable), reference letters, and a curriculum vitae or résumé.

    Application Deadline and Process
    The deadline for submission of applications for the 2026 academic session is Feb. 15, 2026.

    Prospective applicants are required to complete the scholarship application form online. To begin the process, candidates must obtain a one-time password (OTP) by visiting the official scholarship portal, selecting the option titled “The Government of Brunei Darussalam Scholarship for Foreign Students Tenable in Brunei Darussalam (BDGS) Academic Session 2026/2027”, and providing a valid email address.

    Upon entering the OTP, applicants will gain access to the full application form on the official website.
    Apply Link;https://brightscholarship.com/government-of-brunei-darussalam-scholarship-2026/

    The scholarship announcement was published by Bright Scholarship, an education-focused platform founded by Qamar Usman, which provides information on scholarships, internships and academic opportunities worldwide.

  • Abia Govt Restores Electricity to 33 Communities After Nine-Year Blackout

    The Abia State Government has restored electricity supply to 33 oil-producing communities in Ukwa West Local Government Area, bringing to an end about nine years of total blackout and infrastructural neglect.

    Governor Alex Otti disclosed this on Monday during the official power switch-on ceremony held at Central Primary School, Obehie, Ukwa West LGA.

    The restoration project was executed by the Abia State Government through the Abia State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (ASOPADEC), under the supervision of the Ministry of Power and Public Utilities, in fulfilment of a commitment made by the governor to the affected communities in March 2025.

    Otti, who arrived at the venue in the newly launched Abia Green Shuttle electric vehicle (EV) bus alongside members of his cabinet, recalled that he had promised to restore electricity to the area and to investigate the case of Mr Promise Onwukwe, a staff affected during the blackout period.

    According to the governor, the matter had been resolved and the officer restored to service as earlier assured.

    The governor urged residents of Ukwa West to take collective responsibility for the protection of electricity infrastructure in their communities, warning against vandalism and theft.

    “I believe that we have a responsibility to protect what is in our community. Nobody can do it better than you.

    “And those thieves do not come from heaven; they are all part and parcel of the community,” Otti said.

    Responding to concerns raised by community members over the possibility of high electricity bills following the restoration, the governor directed that key stakeholders should immediately engage in discussions to find workable solutions.

    “That is how society works. I will give a job to the Mayor to sit down with the Honourable Member, the Commissioner and all capable stakeholders so that we can work out a way to support those who cannot pay,” he added.

    In his remarks, the member representing Ukwa West State Constituency, Hon. Godwin Adiele, commended the Otti-led administration for what he described as significant achievements within a short period.

    Adiele assured the governor of massive electoral support from Ukwa West in the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence that developmental projects in the area would be sustained.

    Earlier, the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, said the power restoration project involved the rehabilitation of 30 transformer distribution substations, installation of 12 new transformers, restoration of 34 kilometres of high-tension lines and 3.5 kilometres of low-tension lines.

    He added that the benefiting communities were currently being metered to ensure effective billing and accountability, stressing that electricity remained a critical pillar of the state’s development agenda.

    Also speaking, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Aba Power Limited, Prof. Bartholomew Nnaji, assured residents of steady power supply, noting that Ukwa West falls within the nine local government areas serviced by Aba Power.

    Nnaji confirmed that 33 transformers and several distribution lines had been installed in the area, adding that electricity supplied to the communities would be generated outside the national grid.

    He appealed to residents to shun vandalism, energy theft and other acts capable of undermining the sustainability of the project.

    Earlier in his address, the General Manager of ASOPADEC, Rev. Joshua Onyeike, expressed gratitude to Governor Otti for what he described as a historic intervention in Asa land.

    “It is with joy and happiness that we have come to do this important assignment to ensure that the light His Excellency promised us on March 11, 2025, has been dutifully restored.

    “This switching-on of electricity today will inaugurate many great things that are still to come,” Onyeike said.

    The event was attended by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; Commissioners, including the Commissioner for Environment, Mr Philemon Ogbonna, and the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu; as well as a former Secretary to the State Government, Pastor Ralph Egbu, among other government officials and community leaders.

  • IGP Orders Nationwide Deployment Of Police Personnel For Yuletide Security

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the nationwide deployment of police personnel and operational assets to ensure adequate security during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

    The directive, issued as part of the Nigeria Police Force’s festive season security strategy, mandates all Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General of Police and Commissioners of Police in the states to intensify patrols, visibility policing, intelligence-led operations and community engagement across the country.

    The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Abuja.

    According to him, the IGP has placed specialised police units on heightened operational readiness to effectively respond to security threats during the period.

    He listed the units to include the Police Mobile Force, Counter-Terrorism Unit, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Command, Intelligence Response Team, Special Tactical Squad, Special Intervention Squad, Highway Patrol, Marine Police and the Airwing.

    “In line with the Force’s proactive security strategy for the festive season, the Inspector-General of Police has directed all Zonal AIGs and State Command Commissioners of Police to intensify patrols, visibility policing, intelligence-led operations and confidence-building engagements throughout the period,” Hundeyin said.

    He added that the deployment would cover places of worship, recreational centres, markets, motor parks, event venues, transport terminals, highways, critical national infrastructure and other high-density public areas.
                                                    Hundeyin said additional patrol teams and surveillance units had been activated to monitor inter-state routes and major expressways to prevent road-related crimes, traffic congestion and accidents.

    “The deployed officers have been charged to be firm but courteous in the discharge of their duties,” he stated.

    The police spokesman further said the IGP directed all commands to sustain raids on identified blackspots, forests, criminal hideouts and flashpoints nationwide.

    He noted that the police leadership had also intensified collaboration with other security agencies to enhance coordinated security operations during the festive season.

    The IGP urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, celebrate responsibly and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through designated emergency communication channels.

    The directive comes less than 24 hours after the Defence Headquarters announced similar nationwide security measures following intelligence reports indicating possible threats during the Christmas period.

  • Confusion in Borno As Tinubu Unveils 3,000 Electric Bikes Despite Existing Ban

    Residents of Borno State have expressed confusion following the unveiling of 3,000 electric motorcycles by President Bola Tinubu, despite the subsisting ban on the use of motorcycles across the state.

    President Tinubu, during a state visit to Borno on Saturday, commissioned a fleet of electric vehicles comprising 3,000 motorcycles, 500 tricycles, 100 cars and 20 buses with a capacity of 42 passengers each.

    Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, the President commended the Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, and the people of the state, describing the initiative as a major step towards improving transportation and mobility, particularly in rural communities.
    According to him, the introduction of electric vehicles would enhance convenience and address transportation challenges faced by residents.

    “The electric vehicles, the tricycles and the charging terminals in their thousands will ease the problems of mobility and transportation economy,” the President said.

    However, the development has generated controversy, as the Borno State Police Command had earlier reiterated a ban on the use of motorcycles in the state.

    Recall that on July 25, 2024, the police restated that the ban covers all motorcycles, including electric and petrol-powered bikes, warning that violators would be arrested.

    The directive, contained in a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, ASP Nahum Daso, said the decision was taken by the Borno State Security Council due to prevailing security challenges in the state.

    “The Command has observed the flagrant use of motorcycles, especially electric bikes, in the state, and wishes to remind the general public that the ban on motorcycles in the state still subsists,” the statement read.
    It added that the decision was based on security concerns and urged residents to comply with the order.

    Daso further warned that any person found in possession of electric or petrol-powered motorcycles would be arrested, while filling stations were directed to desist from selling petrol to motorcyclists.

    “Any filling station found selling petrol to motorcyclists will be sanctioned and sealed for prosecution,” the statement added.
    When contacted on Monday, Daso confirmed that the ban remains in force.

    “As of now, the status quo remains. The enforcement of the ban on electric and petrol-powered bikes continues. It was an executive order from the governor, and it has not been changed,” he said.

    Similarly, the Senior Technical Assistant to the Governor on Print and Digital Communications, Abdulrahman Bundi, confirmed in a telephone interview that the ban had not been lifted.

    “This is a police issue. If the police confirm that the ban is still ongoing, then that is our position. It simply means the ban is still in force,” Bundi said.

    Reacting to the unveiling, residents of Maiduguri and its environs called on the state government to provide clarity on the policy.

    A resident of Polo area in Maiduguri, Ibrahim Hassan, said the development was confusing and urged the government to officially state whether the ban had been lifted.

    “How will you commission 3,000 motorcycles that you have banned? Who will use them, or will they be kept until the ban is lifted? The government should clarify this officially so we can know whether to buy them with our money,” he said.
                                                         Another resident, Alkali Adamu, also questioned the programme in a social media post, describing it as contradictory.

    “A few months ago, Governor Babagana Zulum banned electric bikes in Maiduguri. Today, the President commissioned electric bikes. Who is expected to use these bikes? Does this mean the ban has been lifted?” he asked.

    Umar Aminu, another resident, while commending the government for the initiative, also called for clarification.

    “We appreciate the governor for the many projects in the state, especially the electric bikes. However, we need to know whether the ban has been lifted or if only specific people are allowed to use them,” he said.

    Residents have therefore appealed to the state government and security agencies to clearly state the position of the government on the ban to avoid further confusion.

  • Khalifa University Announces Fully Funded Graduate Scholarships For 2026 Academic Session

    Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, has announced the commencement of applications for its Graduate Scholarship Programme for the 2026 academic session, offering fully funded opportunities to international students across the world.

    The scholarship, open to candidates of all nationalities, is designed for those seeking to pursue Master’s degrees, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, the Pre-Medicine Bridge Programme, and the Doctor of Medicine (MD) programme at the institution.

    According to the university, the scholarship will cover the 2026–2027 academic session and is aimed at attracting outstanding students to one of the Middle East’s leading research-focused universities.

    Khalifa University, established in 1989, is a science-driven institution located in Abu Dhabi. It is ranked 28th best university in Asia by the Times Higher Education Asia University Rankings and 401st globally by the QS World University Rankings.

    The university said the scholarship is fully funded, covering all academic and living-related expenses for successful applicants.
    Scholarship Details

    Under the programme, eligible students will benefit from full tuition coverage, monthly stipends and additional academic support.
    For graduate research and assistantship beneficiaries, the monthly stipend is pegged at AED 8,000 for Master’s students and AED 10,000 for PhD candidates, subject to periodic review.

    Other benefits include comprehensive medical insurance, visa support for scholarship holders and funding to attend international research conferences.

    Applicants may apply either as full-time or part-time students. Full-time students are required to register for three to four courses per semester, while part-time students must enrol in two courses per semester.

    The duration of study is two years for full-time Master’s programmes, three years for part-time Master’s programmes, and three to four years for PhD programmes.
                                                       Available Fields of Study

    The scholarship covers a wide range of academic disciplines across several colleges, including Engineering, Medicine, Arts and Sciences, Security, Science and Technology.

    Programmes are available under the College of Engineering, College of Arts and Sciences, and the College of Medicine and Health Sciences. These include, among others, Chemical Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Information Security, Mechanical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Applied Chemistry, Petroleum Geoscience and the Doctor of

    Medicine programme.
    Some programmes, such as Nuclear Engineering and certain security-related courses, are restricted to UAE and Saudi nationals.

    Eligibility and Documentation
    To be eligible, Master’s applicants must possess a recognised Bachelor’s degree, while PhD applicants must hold a Master’s degree. Applicants are also required to provide proof of English language proficiency and successfully complete an admission interview.

    PhD candidates must additionally submit a research statement of between 500 and 1,000 words.
    Required documents include academic certificates and transcripts, a detailed curriculum vitae, passport photograph, valid passport, personal statement, statement of purpose and two letters of recommendation. All applications must be submitted online, as physical submissions will not be accepted.

    Application Deadline

    The university stated that the deadline for submission of applications is March 2, 2026.

    Interested candidates are advised to apply through the official Khalifa University online application portal and consult the university’s official advertisement for detailed admission and conditional requirements.

    The Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship Programme remains one of the most sought-after fully funded opportunities in the United Arab Emirates, offering international students access to world-class education and research facilities in Abu Dhabi.

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