₦airaland Forum

Blue Apple Educational Foundation is collaborating with Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, IEEE, Nigeria Section to organize National Engineering Science and Technology Essay Competition, (NESTEC ) 6.0.

Benefits:
1. Capacity building
2. International Opportunities
3. Networking with Experts
4. Unlock Untapped Potential
5. 2Million Naira Cash Prize

REGISTRATION IS FREE
https://blueapple-edufoundation.org/2025/06/14/nestec-6-0-instructions/

The National Engineering Science and Technology Essay Competition (NESTEC) 5.0 reached its thrilling climax on May 31, 2025, as nine brilliant finalists were honoured at an inspiring award ceremony. The event, organized by the Blue Apple Educational Foundation (BAEF) in collaboration with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Nigeria Section, showcased Nigeria’s next generation of STEM leaders.

After rigorous evaluation, Peter Emmanuel Ameh of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, emerged as the first-place winner. Keenly contested was Mbanwusi Francisca Odirachukwunma from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (2nd place), and Eka John Michael of Akwa Ibom State University (3rd place).

NESTEC, driven by three core missions—unlocking potential, promoting research, and expanding opportunities—continues to nurture young talents in engineering and technology.

Engr. Akan Michael, President of BAEF, welcome all invited guests while delivering a heartfelt speech, acknowledging efforts of the Board of Trustees, Chairman, NESTEC Technical Committee, Paper Supervisors, Paper Assessors, NESTEC past finalists—now NESTEC Ambassadors and the entire administrative apparatus —for their continued support and impact. He also praised IEEE Nigeria for her partnership, emphasizing the importance of strategic collaborations in advancing STEM education.

The ceremony was chaired by Dr. Victor Udo, President of the Abasi People Foundation, who urged finalists to “think differently, innovate boldly, and leverage STEM to solve real-world problems.”
Dr. Marissa McGlone, Ed.D, the Special Guest of Honour from Pennsylvania, USA, delivered a powerful keynote titled “Beyond the Algorithms and Blueprints.” She challenged the students to reflect on their deeper purpose, saying:
“STEM is the future, and the power is in your hands. Your passion is evident, but how will you use it for good? Look beyond the classroom—your innovations can bridge global gaps and redefine tomorrow.”

Adding to the discourse, Helen Okereke of the African Leadership University, Rwanda, presented a compelling lecture on “Beyond Research and Books: The Power of Practical STEM,” reinforcing the need for hands-on application in scientific fields.

Prof. Engr. Tolulope Olusegun Akinbulire (University of Lagos), Technical Committee Chairman of NESTEC, officially announced the winners, commending their intellectual rigor and creativity.

Tushar Janarthanan Ramesh Babu, the Guest Project presenter from Delaware, USA also presented his paper titled: Intelligent Knee Rehabilitation Device: Enhancing Recovery Through Technology

As the event concluded, one message resonated clearly: Nigeria’s young engineers and technologists are not just scholars—they are the architects of a brighter, innovation-driven future.

REGISTER FOR 6.0 EDITION. [url] https://engineersforum.com.ng[/url]

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced a revised framework for Automated Teller Machine (ATM) transaction fees, eliminating free interbank withdrawals and introducing charges of up to N600 per N20,000 withdrawals.

The new policy becomes effective from March 1, 2025.

In a circular signed by the Acting Director, Financial Policy and Regulation Department, John Onoja, the apex bank attributed the upward review of fees to rising operational costs and the need to improve service efficiency in Nigeria’s banking sector.

Under the updated framework, bank customers withdrawing cash from an ATM operated by their own bank, which is commonly referred to as “On-Us” transactions, will continue to enjoy fee-free withdrawals. This means that customers using an ATM owned by their bank for cash withdrawals would not incur any additional charges.

However, withdrawals from ATMs belonging to other banks, classified as “Not-On-Us” transactions would now attract additional charges. Customers withdrawing cash from an ATM located within a bank’s premises but operated by a different financial institution would be charged a fee of N100 per N20,000 withdrawal.

Furthermore, transactions conducted at off-site ATMs located outside banking premises, such as those found in shopping malls, airports, fuel stations, or other public locations, would incur a base charge of N100 per N20,000 withdrawal, in addition to a surcharge of up to N500 per transaction. This means that the total cost of withdrawing N20,000 from an off-site ATM that is not affiliated with the customer’s bank could reach N600.

In a notable policy shift, the CBN also eliminated the three free monthly withdrawals previously granted to customers making “Remote-On-Us” withdrawals transactions where an individual withdraws cash from an ATM operated by a bank other than their own.

It stated: “In response to rising costs and the need to improve efficiency of ATM services in the banking industry, the CBN has reviewed the ATM transaction fees prescribed in Section 10.7 of the extant CBN Guide to Charges by Banks, Other Financial and Non-Bank Financial Institutions, 2020.

“This review is expected to accelerate the deployment of ATMs and ensure that appropriate charges are applied by financial institutions to consumers of the service. Accordingly, banks and other financial institutions are advised to apply the following fees with effect from March 1, 2025.”

It added: “Furthermore, the three free monthly withdrawals allowed for Remote-On-Us (other bank’s customers/Not-On-Us consumers) in Nigeria under Section 10.6.2 of the Guide shall no longer apply. Please be guided accordingly.”

For international ATM withdrawals, whether conducted via debit or credit cards, the CBN stipulated that customers would be charged the exact amount imposed by the international acquirer handling the transaction.

https://engineersforum.com.ng/2025/02/12/cbn-increases-charges-on-atm-withdrawals/

With this, Soon POS will disappear, like come and make you calls here. will every one own POS?

highoctane:
No.
I dare not make large cash transfer from POS, no matter the situation, rather from my encrypted device and banks where I have an account.
Soon POS will disappear, like come and make you calls here.

AI

geoworldedu:
And what will replace it?

Exactly

Bahamas95:
Jesus!

If not for this thread I wouldn't even know ATM is still in existence, can't remember the last time I used it.......I've been using POS for years now.





Modified

I remember those famous lines those days.....

* Are you the last person? Please I'm behind you. ( I wonder where dem dey always waka go)

* Is it dispensing?

* Abeg nor withdraw everything finish o

* What are you still doing there na? If your card is not working let me try my own.



Add yours........

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in Nigeria are not entirely obsolete but are becoming less central to financial transactions as alternative payment methods, especially Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals and online transfers, gain dominance. This shift raises the question of whether ATMs are going out of fashion.

Decline in ATM Usage:

ATM transactions have seen a decline in both value and volume. In 2024, the value of ATM transactions dropped by 16.6% to ₦12.21 trillion, while their volume fell slightly to 496.43 million. In contrast, POS transactions surged by 77% in value and 31% in volume during the same period, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences.

Challenges with ATMs:

Low Withdrawal Limits: Many ATMs restrict withdrawals to ₦5,000–₦10,000 per transaction, leading to customer frustration and multiple withdrawals.
Cash Scarcity: Persistent cash shortages at ATMs force users to seek alternatives like POS agents.
Infrastructure Issues: High maintenance costs and limited deployment (one ATM for every 12,923 Nigerians) exacerbate accessibility challenges.

Rise of Alternative Channels:

POS terminals are now more widely available, with one terminal for every 38 Nigerians compared to the limited ATM network.
Online transfers and mobile banking have grown significantly, with online transfer values reaching ₦783.6 trillion in 2022, far surpassing ATM transactions.

Cashless Policy Impact:

The Central Bank of Nigeria’s push for a cashless economy has further reduced reliance on ATMs. However, this shift has been challenging for cash-dependent sectors like informal traders and rural areas.

In conclusion, while ATMs still play a role in Nigeria’s financial ecosystem, their relevance is diminishing as digital transactions and POS services become the preferred options for many Nigerians

.

https://engineersforum.com.ng/2025/02/05/are-atms-becoming-obsolete-in-nigeria/

Banie:
What happens to the Nigerian refineries

Big question!!!!!

The Blue Apple Educational Foundation (BAEF), in partnership with The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Nigeria Section, is delighted to announce the official commencement of paper publishing for the 5th edition of the National Engineering Science and Technology Essay Competition (NESTEC 5.0). Building on the success of its previous editions, NESTEC remains committed to unlocking the untapped potential of young minds while fostering innovation in engineering and technology. It has become a guiding force for aspiring engineers and scientists. This prestigious initiative aims to foster innovation, critical thinking, and academic excellence among students and professionals in engineering, science, and technology.

NESTEC 5.0 has garnered significant attention nationwide, with participants submitting thought-provoking papers that address pressing technological and societal challenges. The assessment phase is now underway, and the contributions of experts, academics, and industry professionals are crucial to ensuring the integrity and quality of the competition.

The published papers are now accessible for review and engagement on the following platforms:

X (formerly Twitter): @engineersforum2
BlueApple-EduFoundation: https://blueapple-edufoundation.org/
Facebook: @Engineers Forum
Stakeholders, including NESTEC ambassadors, reviewers, and the general public, are encouraged to participate in the assessment process by providing constructive feedback and engaging with the authors. This collaborative effort will not only enhance the quality of the submissions but also inspire the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.

The Blue Apple Educational Foundation and IEEE Nigeria Section extend their gratitude to all partners, participants, and supporters for their unwavering commitment to this initiative. Together, we are shaping the future of engineering and technology in Nigeria and beyond.

For further information and Sponsorship, please contact: info@blueapple-edufoundation.org

The Dangote Refinery has slashed its ex-depot price for premium motor spirit (PMS), better known as petrol, from ₦950 per litre to ₦890.

In a statement, the company said the move is “effective from Saturday, 1st February 2025”.

The Dangote Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer Anthony Chiejina said the reduction is based on market realities.

“This strategic adjustment is a direct response to the positive outlook within the global energy and gas markets, as well as the recent reduction in international crude oil prices,” Chiejina said in the statement issued on Saturday night.

He recalled that Dangote Refinery a few weeks back implemented “a modest increase” in the price of the essential commodity “due to the previously rising international crude oil prices.”

The spokesman said this “price revision reflects the ongoing fluctuations in global crude oil markets” and the plant’s “unwavering commitment to transparency and fairness”.

According to the refinery, the reduction will impact the “overall cost of living” in the country.

“Dangote Petroleum Refinery firmly believes that this reduction from N950 to N890 will result in a meaningful decrease in the cost of petrol nationwide, thereby driving down the prices of goods and services, as well as the overall cost of living, with a positive ripple effect on various sectors of the economy,” Chiejina said.

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery called on marketers to “collaborate in this effort, to ensure that these benefits are passed on to the Nigerian populace.

“This collective initiative will contribute to the wider economic recovery plan led by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is dedicated to making Nigeria self-sufficient in refined petroleum products and positioning the country as a leading oil export hub,” he added.

Leobankx:
Effect of unemployment, I'm sure if he had a job he'd be busy with his life.

Exactly !

Sure, he will. But don't ignored what he says to you. Just obey.

Baronthecelebri:
My lesson is that if you have a vision,use all your strength and money to make that vision come to live. I saw a game, I use my last 1k bet it and I won 100k.

Indeed 😊

In 2005, Google acquired Android Inc. for just $50 million, a strategic move that would eventually reshape the mobile technology landscape. At the time of the acquisition, Android was struggling to find its footing, initially conceived as an operating system for digital cameras before pivoting to focus on mobile phones. The company was facing financial difficulties, and its co-founder, Andy Rubin, had even sought additional funding to keep it afloat.

The initial $50 million investment is now estimated to represent a value exceeding $500 billion, showcasing the transformative impact of this acquisition on both Google and the broader tech industry. This case exemplifies how strategic foresight in technology investments can yield substantial long-term rewards.

What lessons can you learn here?

READ FULL REPORT below;

https://x.com/engineersforum2/status/1859545782531043603

Meet NESTEC Ambassador, Adulbaki Ahmad who got inducted into the 2024/2025 COHORT of the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy Fellowship. He will be serving as a special assistant to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

The National Engineering Science and Technology Essay Competition (NESTEC) is to harness the untapped potential and groom our youths to develop capacity in research and technical paper/essay writing in line with global best standards.

Register for NESTEC 5.0
https://blueapple-edufoundation.org

Are you passionate about engineering, science, and technology? Do you have innovative ideas and a flair for writing? The National Engineering Science and Technology Essay Competition (NESTEC) 5.0 is your platform to shine!

Why Participate in NESTEC 5.0?

a. Create local and global opportunities for students and young graduate engineering personnel to showcase their talents.
b. Boost Your Resume: Gain recognition for your academic and creative skills.
c. Win NI,000,000 cash rewards, certificates, and more.
d. Unlock the untapped potentials
e. Promote research and scholarship among engineering students
f. Encourage and develop capacity for technical paper and essay writing

Who Can Participate?
The competition is structure to allow for participation, engagement, and transparency in outcome. Participation is nationwide and is made to cover all the institutions of higher learning, both public and private universities, polytechnic and monotechnic. NESTEC 5.0 is open to students

How to Enter
1. Choose a Topic
2. Craft a compelling essay with original ideas and thorough research.
3. Submit your paper

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to contribute to the conversation in engineering, science, and technology.
Visit https://blueapple-edufoundation.org
https://engineersforum.com.ng

Join NESTEC 5.0 and make your mark in the world of engineering, science, and technology!

tydi:
Wahala for cele church members

indeed oooo

National Engineering Science and Technology Essay Competition (NESTEC)


Are you passionate about engineering, science, and technology? Do you have innovative ideas and a flair for writing? The National Engineering Science and Technology Essay Competition (NESTEC) 5.0 is your platform to shine!

Why Participate in NESTEC 5.0?

a. Create local and global opportunities for students and young graduate engineering personnel to showcase their talents.
b. Boost Your Resume: Gain recognition for your academic and creative skills.
c. Win NI,000,000 cash rewards, certificates, and more.
d. Unlock the untapped potentials
e. Promote research and scholarship among engineering students
f. Encourage and develop capacity for technical paper and essay writing

Who Can Participate?
The competition is structure to allow for participation, engagement, and transparency in outcome. Participation is nationwide and is made to cover all the institutions of higher learning, both public and private universities, polytechnic and monotechnic. NESTEC 5.0 is open to students

How to Enter
1. Choose a Topic
2. Craft a compelling essay with original ideas and thorough research.
3. Submit your paper

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to contribute to the conversation in engineering, science, and technology. Visit https://blueapple-edufoundation.org and https://engineersforum.com.ng
for more details and submission guidelines.

Join NESTEC 5.0 and make your mark in the world of engineering, science, and technology!

mariovito:
Let me play Devil's advocate;

It's possible it's his personal funds

Duck that shit!

From the surrounding circumstances, You and I can see it clearly that just like during the elections where we had vote for cash, this is a clear case of protest for cash, a.ka. paid actor, a.k.a. Paid protester.

It's sad that no matter how bad it gets, there are people willing to sell out for free, like its in their DNA to either be stupid, Judas, or both.

What do you expect before. That's the norm.

Medipharm:
Conduct craftsmanship competitions, why Essay?

We are working on that sir.
Thanks for your feedback

Goodnewsforlife:
we are waiting for u igbos

Shebi what u can't do through d ballot u want to do it by force abi?

U want a government change by force

Very funny

Make it a gift to someone

National Engineering Science and Technology Essay Competition (NESTEC).

N1,000,000 FOR WINNERS

The mission of NESTEC is to harness the untapped potential and groom our youths to develop capacity in research and technical paper/essay writing in line with global best standards.

NESTEC is one of the flagship events of Blue Apple Educational Foundation with the objectives;

1. To unlock the untapped potentials among youths in the field of engineering science
2. Promote research and scholarship among engineering students
3. Encourage and develop capacity for technical paper and essay writing
4. Introduce the students into mainstream trending and advances in engineering science and technology
5. Create local and global opportunities for students and young graduate engineering personnel to showcase their talents.

The competition is structure to allow for participation, engagement, and transparency in outcome.
Participation is nationwide and is made to cover all the institutions of higher learning, both public and private universities, polytechnic and monotechnic.

https://blueapple-edufoundation.org