Google has announced the commencement of applications for its 2026 Summer of Code (GSoC) Programme, offering successful participants a stipend of 6,000 dollars, alongside training, mentorship and certification.
The company said the programme is aimed at students and early-career developers interested in contributing to open-source software development while gaining practical experience.
According to Google, selected participants will be paired with experienced mentors from approved open-source organisations to work on real-world coding projects within a structured timeframe.
It stated that the initiative is designed to build technical capacity, promote collaborative learning and expose participants to global software development standards.
Google added that beneficiaries would receive professional guidance throughout the programme and be awarded certification upon successful completion of their assigned projects.
The company disclosed that the application deadline for the 2026 edition is March 31, 2026, urging interested applicants to submit their entries before the closing date.
The Summer of Code programme, a long-running initiative by Google, has supported thousands of developers globally, providing them with valuable industry experience and career opportunities in the technology sector.
Prospective applicants have been advised to carefully review eligibility requirements and develop strong project proposals aligned with participating organisations.
Stakeholders in the technology ecosystem have continued to commend the programme for fostering innovation, encouraging open-source contributions and supporting emerging talent worldwide.
Panic erupted in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, following a bomb explosion near the gate of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) on Monday.
Eyewitnesses said the explosion occurred around the hospital’s main entrance area, sending residents, commuters and hospital visitors fleeing for safety as security operatives rushed to the scene.
Sources said the blast was suspected to have been caused by an improvised explosive device (IED), although authorities had yet to issue an official statement confirming the exact cause as of press time.
Security personnel, including troops of the Nigerian military and other emergency responders, quickly cordoned off the area to prevent further casualties and to allow bomb disposal experts to assess the situation.
Some witnesses reported that the explosion created a loud bang that was heard in several parts of the city, particularly around the University of Maiduguri axis and nearby communities.
Emergency teams were seen evacuating victims from the scene, while injured persons were reportedly rushed into the hospital for treatment.
A security source said investigations had commenced to determine whether the incident was linked to insurgent activities in the North-East.
Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, has for years been at the centre of the insurgency led by the extremist group Boko Haram and its splinter faction Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
The groups have carried out numerous bombings and attacks across the region since the insurgency began in 2009.
Security agencies have urged residents to remain calm and vigilant while investigations into the explosion continue.
Further details, including possible casualties and arrests, were still being awaited at the time of filing this report.
Several passengers sustained injuries on Monday when a train operating on the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor derailed, causing panic among commuters and disrupting rail services along the busy route.
The incident reportedly occurred along a section of the standard gauge rail line between Abuja and Kaduna, one of Nigeria’s most frequently used rail corridors.
Eyewitnesses said the derailment happened while the train was in motion, forcing some coaches off the track and leaving passengers stranded for several hours.
Some passengers were said to have sustained varying degrees of injuries during the incident, while others escaped unhurt but were visibly shaken.
Emergency responders and railway officials were said to have arrived at the scene shortly after the derailment to evacuate passengers and provide immediate medical assistance to the injured.
A passenger who spoke with reporters said the situation caused panic inside the train as passengers struggled to understand what had happened.
“We suddenly felt a violent jerk and the train slowed down abruptly. Some coaches tilted slightly and people began shouting. It was a frightening experience,” the passenger said.
Another passenger said some injured persons were given first aid at the scene before being moved to nearby medical facilities for further treatment.
Officials of the Nigerian railway authorities were said to have begun preliminary assessments to determine the cause of the derailment.
Although the exact cause of the incident had yet to be confirmed at the time of filing this report, railway engineers were reportedly inspecting the affected section of the track and the train coaches involved.
The Abuja–Kaduna rail line remains one of Nigeria’s most important transportation routes, conveying thousands of passengers daily due to security concerns along the Abuja–Kaduna highway.
Rail services on the corridor have experienced occasional disruptions in the past due to technical issues, track maintenance and other operational challenges.
Authorities are expected to release an official statement on the incident and outline steps being taken to restore normal services and prevent future occurrences.
Donald Trump and Keir Starmer have discussed the urgent need to reopen the Strait of Hormuz following disruptions caused by an Iranian blockade that has severely affected global shipping and energy supplies.
The discussion took place during a phone call on Sunday as tensions escalated in the Middle East amid ongoing hostilities involving Iran, the United States and Israel. According to a statement from Downing Street, both leaders emphasised the importance of restoring navigation through the vital waterway to end disruptions to global trade.
A Downing Street spokesperson said the leaders reviewed the evolving situation in the region and agreed that reopening the strait was crucial to stabilise shipping routes and reduce economic pressure caused by the crisis.
The Strait of Hormuz, located between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, is one of the world’s most strategic maritime chokepoints, carrying roughly 20 per cent of global oil shipments. Its closure has triggered concerns over rising energy prices and disruptions to international supply chains.
The crisis follows Iran’s move to effectively block the passage in retaliation for strikes carried out by the United States and Israel, which has sharply reduced tanker traffic and forced many shipping companies to suspend operations in the area.
Reports indicate that vessel movement through the waterway has dropped drastically, with many ships anchoring outside the strait due to security concerns and high insurance risks.
During the call, Trump also urged allied nations—including Britain, France, Japan, South Korea and China—to contribute naval forces to help secure the route and protect commercial shipping from potential attacks.
However, British officials have reportedly been cautious about deploying warships directly to the region, with discussions ongoing about alternative measures such as the use of mine-clearing drones to help ensure safe navigation.
The blockade has already caused significant turbulence in global energy markets, pushing oil prices above 100 dollars per barrel and raising fears of a prolonged supply crisis if the shipping route remains closed.
Diplomatic efforts are continuing among several countries to ease tensions and restore safe passage through the strategic corridor, which links major oil-producing states in the Gulf to global markets.
Analysts warn that failure to reopen the strait could deepen the ongoing Middle East crisis and further disrupt global trade flows, given the region’s central role in energy exports.
Security operatives have uncovered an alleged illegal maternity home in Imo, rescuing five pregnant women and five newborn babies in a raid carried out in Owerri.
The operation was conducted by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in collaboration with other security agencies following intelligence reports about suspicious activities at the facility.
The State Commandant of the corps in Imo, Mr Basil Igwebueze, disclosed this while addressing journalists in Owerri, the state capital.
Igwebueze said the facility, located around the World Bank area of the city, was allegedly being used as a baby factory where vulnerable women were kept and babies possibly trafficked.
According to him, the raid was triggered after an officer of the corps noticed a pregnant woman attempting to escape from the premises of the suspected illegal maternity home.
He said the officer immediately alerted other operatives, who moved swiftly to the location and carried out a search of the facility.
“The command uncovered the illegal maternity home and rescued five pregnant women as well as five newborn babies from the premises,” he said.
Igwebueze added that two suspects, including the owner of the facility and an alleged accomplice, were arrested during the operation and are currently in custody.
He described the act as a serious offence, noting that such illegal homes often serve as fronts for human trafficking and child-selling syndicates.
The commandant said the suspects would be prosecuted after investigations were concluded.
He also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious facilities or activities in their communities to security agencies.
“This kind of criminal activity thrives when people keep silent. Community members must work with security agencies to expose such illegal operations,” he said.
One of the suspects, however, denied the allegations, insisting that the facility was a registered orphanage and not a baby factory.
The suspect claimed that one of the pregnant women had sought refuge at the home after fleeing from the man responsible for her pregnancy.
Meanwhile, the rescued women and babies have been taken into protective custody and are expected to receive medical attention while authorities continue investigations into the case.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned alleged harassment of students by security operatives and the increasing cost of house rent in student communities across South-West Nigeria.
The association described the development as disturbing and capable of worsening the economic hardship already faced by many students in the region.
In a statement issued on Friday by the NANS National Public Relations Officer, the student body expressed concern over reports that students were being subjected to intimidation, unlawful arrests and extortion by some officers of the Nigeria Police Force.
According to the statement, the association had received several complaints from students residing in off-campus hostels around universities and polytechnics in the South-West.
NANS noted that such actions by security agents undermine the rights of students and create an atmosphere of fear within academic communities.
The association called on the leadership of the police force to investigate the alleged misconduct and ensure that officers respect the rights of students.
It also urged security agencies to adopt professional conduct while carrying out their duties in areas populated by students.
“We have received disturbing reports of harassment, profiling and extortion of students by some security operatives in several South-West communities.
“Students who should be focused on their studies are instead being subjected to intimidation and unnecessary arrests,” the statement said.
NANS further lamented the sharp rise in house rents in many student-dominated areas, saying landlords were exploiting the high demand for accommodation.
The association said the situation had made it increasingly difficult for many students to secure decent accommodation close to their institutions.
According to NANS, in some areas, rents have increased significantly within a short period, forcing students to either relocate to distant communities or live in overcrowded hostels.
The student body appealed to state governments in the South-West to intervene by introducing policies that would regulate excessive rent increases in student communities.
It also urged school authorities to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to address accommodation challenges facing students.
NANS reiterated its commitment to protecting the welfare and rights of Nigerian students and warned that it would not hesitate to mobilise lawful actions if the issues were not addressed.
The association, however, called for dialogue among security agencies, landlords, institutions and student representatives to find lasting solutions to the challenges.
Skincare experts have highlighted the benefits of using turmeric as a natural remedy for repairing damaged skin, noting its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help improve overall skin health.
Turmeric, widely used in traditional skincare remedies, contains compounds that may help reduce skin irritation, fade dark spots and combat acne-causing bacteria. According to skincare practitioners, one of the most common ways to use turmeric for skin repair is through a turmeric face mask.
This involves mixing one teaspoon of turmeric powder with one tablespoon of honey or yogurt to form a paste, applying it to the face and leaving it on for about 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
They explained that the mixture helps soothe inflamed skin while also providing moisture and nourishment.
Another method involves combining turmeric with coconut oil to create a paste that can be applied to specific skin areas such as acne scars, blemishes and dark spots. Experts say the fatty acids in coconut oil help hydrate the skin while turmeric supports the healing process.
For individuals dealing with hyperpigmentation, turmeric can also be mixed with lemon juice in equal proportions to produce a paste.
The mixture can be applied to dark spots for about 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing off and applying a moisturiser.
Skincare specialists also recommend mixing turmeric with aloe vera gel to produce a soothing face mask, particularly for people with sensitive or irritated skin. They noted that aloe vera helps calm the skin while turmeric contributes antibacterial and healing properties.
Experts said the natural ingredient offers several benefits, including reducing redness and irritation due to its anti-inflammatory properties. They added that its antioxidant compounds may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while its antibacterial properties help prevent acne breakouts.
Turmeric is also known to gradually fade dark spots and uneven skin tone when used consistently. However, dermatology experts caution that turmeric may stain the skin or clothing if used in large quantities.
They advised users to carry out a patch test on a small part of the skin before applying it fully to ensure there is no allergic reaction. They also recommend starting with small amounts and increasing gradually as the skin becomes more tolerant.
In addition, skincare practitioners say turmeric can be combined with Red Palm Oil, which is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids that help nourish and moisturise the skin.
They noted that mixing turmeric with red palm oil may enhance skin repair benefits and help reduce potential staining.
Experts, however, advised that individuals with persistent skin conditions should consult qualified dermatologists for proper diagnosis and treatment.
They emphasised that while natural remedies may support skin health, professional medical advice remains important for serious skin issues.
The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday confirmed the appointment of Taiwo Oyedele as Minister of State for Finance following his screening by lawmakers during plenary.
The confirmation came after several hours of questioning by senators who assessed the nominee’s competence and views on key economic and fiscal issues affecting the country.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier transmitted Oyedele’s nomination to the Senate in a letter seeking his screening and confirmation in line with Section 147(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The request was read during plenary by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, who subsequently referred the nominee to the Committee of the Whole for screening.
Oyedele, an economist and public policy expert, was later cleared by the lawmakers through a voice vote after the screening exercise.
He is expected to replace Doris Uzoka‑Anite, who has been redeployed as Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning.
During the screening, Oyedele outlined plans to strengthen Nigeria’s fiscal framework, broaden the country’s revenue base and ensure more efficient management of public finances.
He also highlighted strategies aimed at stabilising government revenue, improving payment processes to contractors and supporting ongoing economic reforms.
Before his nomination, Oyedele served as Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, where he led initiatives designed to overhaul Nigeria’s tax system and improve revenue generation.
Lawmakers expressed confidence that his experience in fiscal policy and tax administration would support the government’s economic reform agenda and enhance revenue mobilisation.
With the Senate’s confirmation, Oyedele is expected to join the Federal Executive Council to assist in implementing financial and fiscal policies under the administration of President Tinubu.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated former Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Lamido Abubakar Yuguda, for appointment as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
The nomination was disclosed on Wednesday in a statement issued in Abuja by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
According to the statement, the President has forwarded Yuguda’s name to the Nigerian Senate for screening and confirmation in line with the provisions of the Central Bank of Nigeria Act 2007, which empowers the President to appoint the CBN Governor and Deputy Governors subject to Senate approval.
Onanuga explained that the nomination follows the recent redeployment of former CBN Deputy Governor, Bala Bello, who was appointed as Special Adviser to the President on Political Economy.
He said the appointment forms part of the administration’s efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s monetary and financial institutions as the government pursues broader economic reforms.
“The President believes that Yuguda’s vast experience in banking, financial regulation and capital market development will be invaluable in supporting the Central Bank’s mandate of maintaining monetary and financial stability,” the statement said.
Professional Background
Yuguda is widely recognised as a seasoned financial expert with extensive experience spanning banking, monetary policy, financial regulation and capital market development.
He served as Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission from 2020 to 2024, where he supervised regulatory reforms aimed at deepening the Nigerian capital market, improving transparency and boosting investor confidence.
During his tenure, the commission intensified efforts to strengthen market regulation, enforce compliance among operators and promote initiatives designed to expand participation in the capital market.
Before his appointment to the SEC, Yuguda had a long career in the Central Bank of Nigeria where he served in several strategic capacities and contributed to the development and implementation of key financial policies.
His professional experience also extends to the commercial banking sector and financial consultancy, giving him a broad understanding of both regulatory frameworks and financial market operations. Academic and Professional Credentials
Yuguda obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He later earned a Master’s degree in Money, Banking and Finance from the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom.
He is also a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and a Chartered Financial Analyst, reflecting his professional competence in financial management and investment analysis.
Role of the CBN Deputy Governor
The Central Bank of Nigeria has four Deputy Governors who assist the Governor in overseeing the bank’s core functions, including monetary policy implementation, financial system regulation, banking supervision and currency management.
If confirmed by the Senate, Yuguda will join the leadership team of the apex bank to help drive policies aimed at stabilising the national currency, controlling inflation and strengthening Nigeria’s financial system.
Economic Context
Economic analysts note that the nomination comes at a critical time when Nigeria’s financial authorities are working to stabilise the economy, manage inflationary pressures and sustain reforms in the banking and financial sectors.
They say Yuguda’s experience in capital market regulation and banking supervision could contribute to improved policy coordination between the monetary authorities and capital market regulators.
Next Steps
Following the nomination, the Senate is expected to invite Yuguda for screening in accordance with constitutional procedures before deciding on the confirmation of his appointment.
If approved, he will assume office as one of the Deputy Governors of the Central Bank of Nigeria, joining the apex bank’s leadership in managing Nigeria’s monetary policy and financial stability agenda.
The Abia State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has announced the dates for the Computer-Based Test (CBT) for candidates shortlisted in the second batch of its ongoing teachers’ recruitment exercise aimed at strengthening manpower in public schools across the state.
The ministry disclosed that the CBT for the shortlisted applicants will hold between March 17 and March 21, 2026, as part of the selection process for qualified teachers to be employed into the state’s public primary and secondary schools.
According to the ministry, candidates who successfully applied for the recruitment and were shortlisted in the second batch are expected to participate in the CBT as the next stage of the screening process.
The exercise forms part of the Abia State Government’s broader plan to address the shortage of teachers and improve the quality of education across the state.
Officials of the ministry explained that the recruitment programme is designed to attract qualified professionals who will contribute to improving learning outcomes in public schools, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
The government noted that the recruitment process involves multiple stages, including screening of applications, Computer-Based Test, oral interviews, and verification of academic credentials, before the final selection of successful candidates.
It was gathered that thousands of applicants had earlier submitted applications during the recruitment exercise, with over 24,000 candidates reportedly shortlisted to participate in the CBT stage.
The state government said the recruitment exercise was approved as part of ongoing reforms in the education sector under the administration of Gov. Alex Otti, which prioritises improved teaching standards and better learning environments in public schools.
Government officials further explained that the recruitment of new teachers would help fill existing vacancies, reduce teacher shortages, and improve the teacher-to-student ratio across schools in the state.
They added that the initiative would also enhance the delivery of quality education and strengthen the overall capacity of the state’s basic and secondary education system.
The ministry advised all shortlisted candidates to check their examination details, including CBT schedules, venues, and other instructions, through the official recruitment portal.
Candidates are also expected to appear for the examination with valid identification and other required documents as specified by the ministry.
Education authorities emphasised that only candidates who successfully pass the CBT would proceed to the next stage of the recruitment process, which includes oral interviews and documentation verification.
The government also warned applicants to beware of fraudulent individuals or platforms claiming to influence the recruitment process, stressing that the exercise remains transparent and merit-based.
Officials reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the education sector through the recruitment of competent and qualified teachers capable of driving academic excellence in the state’s public schools.
Applicants and interested individuals can access updates and information regarding the recruitment process through the official portal:
The Abia State Government reiterated that the teachers’ recruitment programme is part of broader efforts to reposition the education sector and ensure that students across the state have access to quality teaching and learning.
Cookie Consent
We use cookies to improve your experience on our site. By using our site, you consent to cookies.
Used by Google Analytics to determine which links on a page are being clicked
30 seconds
_ga_
ID used to identify users
2 years
_gid
ID used to identify users for 24 hours after last activity
24 hours
_gat
Used to monitor number of Google Analytics server requests when using Google Tag Manager
1 minute
__utmv
Contains custom information set by the web developer via the _setCustomVar method in Google Analytics. This cookie is updated every time new data is sent to the Google Analytics server.
2 years after last activity
__utmx
Used to determine whether a user is included in an A / B or Multivariate test.
18 months
_ga
ID used to identify users
2 years
__utmt
Used to monitor number of Google Analytics server requests
10 minutes
__utmb
Used to distinguish new sessions and visits. This cookie is set when the GA.js javascript library is loaded and there is no existing __utmb cookie. The cookie is updated every time data is sent to the Google Analytics server.
30 minutes after last activity
__utmc
Used only with old Urchin versions of Google Analytics and not with GA.js. Was used to distinguish between new sessions and visits at the end of a session.
End of session (browser)
__utmz
Contains information about the traffic source or campaign that directed user to the website. The cookie is set when the GA.js javascript is loaded and updated when data is sent to the Google Anaytics server
6 months after last activity
_gac_
Contains information related to marketing campaigns of the user. These are shared with Google AdWords / Google Ads when the Google Ads and Google Analytics accounts are linked together.
