By Aduragbemi Omiyale

An agreement designed to open new pathways for Nigerian and Saudi Arabian workers has been signed by the two nations.

It is the first workers’ recruitment agreement between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, opening the Middle East’s labor market to skilled professionals in the West African country across a wide range of sectors.

The deal, according to a statement made available to Business Post on Tuesday, represents a significant milestone in deepening cooperation between the two countries in the areas of labour mobility, skills development, and worker protection.

It aims to expand opportunities for Nigerian workers in Saudi Arabia while implementing measures to ensure fair and effective recruitment. It establishes a structured framework that protects the rights of both employers and workers, while regulating the contractual relationship between all parties.

Under the agreement, recruitment will be conducted exclusively through authorized and licensed channels, with an emphasis on transparency, compliance with applicable laws, and adherence to agreed standards governing employment terms, working conditions, and worker welfare.

It was signed on the sidelines of the Global Labor Market Conference 2026 in Riyadh by H.E. Eng. Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, and Nigeria’s Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi.

The deal aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen labour market governance and promote a safe and fair working environment, in support of Vision 2030 objectives to improve labour market efficiency and enhance protections across the labour market.

By Aduragbemi Omiyale

Fate Foundation has strengthened its board with the appointment of Ms Ayomide Akindolie-Igwe as an executive director with effect from January 12, 2026.

A statement signed by the chairman of the organisation, Mr Fola Adeola, disclosed that the appointment of Ms Akindolie-Igwe followed the exit of Mrs Adenike Adeyemi in the same role on February 28, 2026, after over a decade.

Under Mrs Adeyemi’s leadership, and through three successful successive multi-year strategic plans, FATE has become a regional powerhouse— reaching individuals across Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa.

Notably, she oversaw the strategic transition of our organization into three specialized divisions: The FATE School, The FATE Institute, and The FATE Giving, ensuring a holistic approach to entrepreneurship support as we expanded into research, policy advocacy, access to capital, digital and AI growth and so much more.

She was thanked “for her tireless service” and welcomed her replacement “as she takes the baton to lead FATE Foundation into its next decade of impact.”

Ms Akindolie-Igwe was described as “a seasoned leader whose expertise in the entrepreneurship ecosystem and the advancement of Small and Medium Enterprises will be instrumental as we scale our digital initiatives to reach 5 million Nigerians by 2030 and amplify our voices in policy advocacy.”

She has been working together with her predecessor during this transition period. The focus is on deepening stakeholder relationships and ensuring the continued execution of the organisation’s 2024-2029 strategic plan.

By Adedapo Adesanya

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has appointed Mr Jerry Amah as its Acting General Secretary, following a decision taken at the union’s last National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja.

Mr Amah succeeds Mr Lumumba Okugbawa, who officially retired after 25 years of distinguished service to the association, marking the end of an era in PENGASSAN’s leadership.

Until his appointment, Mr Amah served as Assistant General Secretary of the union, a role in which he was widely regarded for his strategic communication skills and administrative experience.

He holds both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Mass Communication/Media Studies from the University of Lagos, equipping him with a strong professional foundation in media relations and organisational leadership.

Mr Amah also previously served as Director of Marketing, Communications, Public Relations and Protocols at the Federal University, Wukari, Taraba State, where he was credited with strengthening the institution’s public image and stakeholder engagement.

Congratulating him on the appointment, PENGASSAN President, Mr Peter Osifo, urged the new Acting General Secretary to deepen his commitment to the union’s values and its members.

“This is a critical time for the union. We expect Comrade Amah to rededicate himself to advancing the ideals of PENGASSAN and protecting the interests and welfare of our members,” Mr Osifo said.

In his acceptance remarks, Amah described the appointment as a call to greater service, saying the new role would allow him to contribute more meaningfully to the growth of the union.

“I am grateful for the confidence reposed in me and remain committed to serving PENGASSAN diligently and with integrity,” he said.