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MURDER OF DELTA WOMAN BY TEENAGE THIEVES: A GRIM ACCOUNT

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A 20-year-old suspect, identified as Ekene, recounted the harrowing incident in which he and his friend, Stanley, also 20, killed a woman in the Oliogo community of Ndokwa West Local Government Area, Delta State, while attempting to steal her motorcycle. The two were paraded at the State Police Headquarters in Asaba by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Bright Edafe.

Ekene expressed remorse over the crime, admitting he felt compelled to confess to his mother upon returning home. He narrated how they encountered their victim while she was eating on her farm. “When we sighted her, my friend took off his shirt and tried to strangle her with it,” he explained.

He described the moment the woman recognized his friend, saying, “As she was being strangled, she fell, and tears started coming from her eyes; then she said ‘Aboy,’ because she recognized him.” In a panic, Stanley then grabbed a cutlass and struck her on the head, causing blood to flow.

Amidst the chaos, Ekene recalled his friend urging him to search for the motorcycle keys. Once they couldn’t find them, they fled the scene.

Later, Ekene confided in his mother about the incident, who advised him to approach members of the local vigilante group. This ultimately led to their arrest at the police station.

When asked why he didn’t intervene during the attack, he replied, “I asked my friend what he would do if the woman died, and he told me if he didn’t kill her, she would report us.” He added, “I really felt bad when I saw tears flowing from her eyes.”

The case highlights the alarming issues of youth violence and the desperate measures some resort to, underlining the need for community engagement and preventive measures to address such tragic incidents.

NMA LAGOS URGES 15% BUDGET ALLOCATION FOR HEALTHCARE

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The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Lagos Chapter, has called on the Lagos State government to allocate 15% of its 2025 budget to healthcare, aligning with the Abuja Declaration of 2001. The association highlighted the challenges faced by the healthcare system, including overstretched resources, dilapidated infrastructure, and overworked medical practitioners.

During the NMA Lagos State Physicians’ Week 2024, themed “Ensuring Applicability on Remuneration: A Panacea to Talent Retention in the Healthcare Industry,” the Chairman of the Occasion, Dr. Adebayo Aderiye, stressed that the Civil Service Commission (CSC) should not dictate the salary structure of healthcare workers, as they are significantly underpaid.

Aderiye noted, “The Abuja Declaration emphasized that African countries should allocate no less than 15% of their national budget to health. Unfortunately, only Mauritius has met this target, while Nigeria’s health budget remains low, at 4.6% this year, compared to 4.7% last year. Until we increase this allocation, we will continue to face health-related challenges.”

He appealed to Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the representative of the First Lady, to advocate for the 15% health budget in Lagos, pointing out that states like Abia, Bauchi, and Kaduna have successfully achieved this target.

Prof. Bala Audu, the National President of NMA, represented by Dr. Babajide Saheed, Chairman of NMA Lagos, expressed concern over the brain drain in the healthcare sector, where experienced professionals are leaving Nigeria for better opportunities abroad. He emphasized that fair remuneration is essential for retaining talent in the industry.

Audu stated, “This mass exodus is a symptom of a system that fails to offer fair compensation for career fulfillment. Adequate compensation reflects the time, emotional energy, and personal commitment healthcare professionals invest. When healthcare workers feel valued through fair remuneration, it enhances their dedication to patient care and strengthens the overall health ecosystem.”

UNILAG VC HIGHLIGHTS LESSONS FROM U.S. ELECTORAL SYSTEM

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Prof. Folashade Ogunshola, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), emphasized the valuable lessons Nigeria can learn from the electoral system of the United States. Speaking at a 2024 U.S. Election event in Lagos, she identified transparency, accountability, and inclusivity as key principles that could enhance Nigeria’s electoral processes.

Represented by Prof. Bolanle Oboh, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics and Research), Ogunshola highlighted the importance of understanding the U.S. electoral process in fostering democratic engagement and values such as freedom of speech, the rule of law, and the protection of individual rights. “This should serve as a model for us all as we strive to enhance our democratic practices here in Nigeria,” she remarked.

She further urged attendees to observe how these principles are effectively implemented in the U.S. to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system and promote a culture of active citizenship. “It is our collective responsibility to ensure that our voices are heard and that we contribute to the democratic processes that shape our future,” Ogunshola stated.

Additionally, she encouraged students and faculty members to engage actively in promoting democratic values on campus through participation in student governments, engaging in debates, and organizing forums that stimulate discussions on civic responsibilities and democratic processes.

Gabriel Babawale, a Professor of Political Economy and International Relations at UNILAG, noted that Nigeria’s political system is modeled after the American presidential democracy, underscoring the relevance of this discourse for improving Nigeria’s political landscape.

TOPE ALABI CALLS FOR UNITY AMONG GOSPEL ARTISTS

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Nigerian gospel singer Tope Alabi has expressed her deep concern over the growing rivalry among artists in the gospel music industry. During her performance at the Celebrating Jesus 7.0 concert, Alabi urged her colleagues to foster better connections and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of unity in their mission.

“It is wrong to see each other and smile, then go behind to say bad things about one another,” she stated, reminding artists that they would ultimately be held accountable for their actions. Alabi called on her peers to recognize that their work is for the glory of God and not for personal fame or recognition.

She highlighted a troubling trend where established artists separate themselves from emerging talents, which only perpetuates competition and discord. “The bigger ones are fighting amongst themselves, and what do you want those coming up to do?” she questioned. Alabi lamented that this culture of backstabbing and rivalry is already being emulated by younger artists.

“The emerging ones are already against each other. These children coming up are already backstabbing and emulating us because we started it,” she cautioned. In her heartfelt address, Tope Alabi called for a renewed focus on collaboration and support within the gospel music community, urging everyone to remember that they are all working towards a common purpose in the service of God.

MINISTER OF POWER DECLARES ATTACKS ON TRANSMISSION TOWERS AS TERRORISM

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Chief Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, has condemned the recent attacks on power transmission towers in northern Nigeria, labeling them as acts of terrorism that will be addressed by security forces. Speaking at a briefing organized by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) in Abuja, Chief Adebayo explained that while such attacks are not new, the current wave has left 15 states in the north without grid power supply and is being perpetrated by terrorist groups.

Despite the challenges, he assured consumers in the affected regions that limited power supply would be restored by the weekend, with repair work on the vandalized Shiroro-Mando line expected to take approximately six weeks to complete. Chief Adebayo emphasized the government’s commitment to restoring electricity supply to the north through alternative routes.

“We are hoping that in a matter of days, light will be restored to the north,” he stated, confirming that the efforts would provide at least 400 megawatts of power by the weekend. He indicated that within two or three days, more than 70 to 80 percent of the affected areas would have electricity restored.

“This is not the first time we are facing issues with this line. Previous incidents of vandalism were addressed quickly, but this time the damage is more severe, and repairs have been delayed due to security threats,” Chief Adebayo added.

He appealed to the community for support in protecting the transmission infrastructure, highlighting that resources needed for other projects are being diverted to repair the damaged facilities. The Minister expressed optimism that power would be fully restored soon while reiterating the ongoing efforts to fix the vandalized towers.

TRANSMISSION COMPANY OF NIGERIA INTENSIFIES EFFORTS TO RESTORE POWER TO NORTHERN REGIONS

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The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) is ramping up efforts to restore electricity to the northern regions of the country. During a media briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Managing Director Sule Abdulaziz announced that repairs on the damaged transmission lines, which have caused widespread blackouts in the north, are expected to be completed by November 3.

On October 22, TCN reported power outages affecting the north-east, north-west, and parts of north-central Nigeria due to the tripping of the 330-kilovolt Ugwuaji–Apir double circuit transmission lines 1 and 2. The company also noted that vandalism of the Shiroro-Kaduna line had further reduced electricity supply to major cities including Kaduna and Kano.

Abdulaziz explained that the affected areas have been secured with assistance from the Nigerian Army, allowing for ongoing restoration efforts on one of the damaged lines. “Restoration of one of these lines will allow TCN to wheel about 400 Megawatts (MW) of power in that corridor,” he said.

He emphasized the urgency of repairing the second line on Ugwuaji–Apir, with a target completion date of November 3. Successful restoration will enable TCN to transmit a substantial amount of power through the Apir to Jos, Kaduna, and Kano corridors.

Additionally, TCN is collaborating with the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) to ensure the safety of personnel working on the Shiroro–Mando 330-kilovolt single circuit lines as rehabilitation of the impacted towers is set to begin.

Abdulaziz attributed the current blackout situation to vandalism of the Ugwuaji–Apir 330kV lines, which were reported damaged on October 21. He mentioned that a trial reclosure attempt failed and subsequent patrols revealed damaged conductors caused by the vandalism.

CHIEF JUDGE OF FEDERAL HIGH COURT REJECTS REQUEST TO REASSIGN RIVERS STATE ASSEMBLY SUIT

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Justice John Tsoho, Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, has denied a request from Human Rights Lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, to reassign a suit filed by the Martin Amaewhule faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly against the Rivers State government and others to the Port Harcourt Division of the court.

The suit concerns the withholding of funds allocated for local governments in Rivers State. Falana cited potential bias from the Abuja Judicial Division, highlighting that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, an interested party in the case, has announced plans to build housing for judges in the Katampe District of the FCT.

In response to Falana’s concerns, Justice Tsoho, in a letter dated October 25 and signed by his Special Assistant Joshua Ibrahim, advised that such a request should be made formally through a Motion on Notice. This would allow the trial judge to consider the reasons for the request and issue a ruling accordingly.

The letter emphasized, “I am directed by His Lordship, the Honourable, the Chief Judge to inform you that this application should be judicially made by Motion on Notice so that the Judge is afforded the opportunity to know the reasons for it and deliver a ruling accordingly.”

Justice Tsoho is currently under scrutiny by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, over conflicting rulings related to Rivers State matters.

SEN. JOHN ENOH ASSUMES OFFICE AS MINISTER OF STATE FOR INDUSTRY, TRADE, AND INVESTMENT

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Senator John Enoh has officially assumed his role as the new Minister of State for Industry, Trade, and Investment, pledging to drive Nigeria’s economic growth through robust industrial development. His commitment was made during his first day in office on Tuesday in Abuja, where he expressed gratitude for the warm welcome he received.

Enoh’s appointment comes as part of President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet reshuffle on October 23. Having previously been confirmed as a minister, Enoh is now focused on his responsibilities without the need for Senate approval. He indicated that while he would eventually operate from the ministry’s office, he is currently working from the Bank of Industry (BOI) until his office is fully functional.

Emphasizing the importance of industrialization for national economic development, Enoh highlighted the need for strategic leadership and policy direction to enhance the industrial sector. He called for collaboration among ministry staff and the urgent review of existing industrial plans and policies to better address contemporary challenges.

The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Ambassador Nura Rimi, welcomed Enoh and expressed the staff’s eagerness to work with him. Rimi commended President Tinubu for appointing a minister with a proven track record, noting Enoh’s achievements in revitalizing the Ministry of Sports and his potential to address the current challenges facing Nigeria’s industrial sector.

MINISTER OF POWER LABELS TRANSMISSION TOWER ATTACKS AS TERRORISM, PROMISES RESTORATION

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The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has declared that recent attacks on power transmission towers, particularly in northern Nigeria, are acts of terrorism that will be met with security intervention. Speaking at a briefing organized by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) in Abuja, he confirmed that these attacks have severely impacted grid power supply, leaving 15 northern states without electricity.

Chief Adelabu reassured affected consumers that limited power supply would be restored by the weekend. He stated that work is underway to repair the vandalized Shiroro-Mando transmission line, expected to be completed in six weeks, while an alternative supply route through the eastern corridor is being implemented to provide around 400 megawatts of power.

By exploring alternative transmission routes, the government aims to restore power to 70–80% of the affected northern regions within the next two to three days. Adelabu highlighted that this is not the first instance of vandalism on these lines, but the current damage is more extensive, with security threats delaying repair efforts.

The Minister also appealed to local communities to help protect the infrastructure. He emphasized that funds allocated to repairs could have been invested in other projects and expressed confidence that alternative solutions will soon restore power to the affected regions.

NIGERIAN ACTIVIST BONIFACE OKONKWO SENTENCED TO 18 MONTHS FOR DEFAMATION AGAINST SIR EMEKA OFFOR

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An Anambra State High Court in Nnewi has sentenced Boniface Okonkwo, a South African-based Nigerian activist, to 18 months imprisonment for defamation against Sir Emeka Offor, Chairman of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC). Presiding over the case, Justice Vincent Agbata found Okonkwo guilty of defamatory statements made on the Oraifite community WhatsApp platform, where both men are members.

The controversial statement disparaged Offor’s meter manufacturing facility, calling it an “empty warehouse.” However, the judge offered Okonkwo the alternative of a N500,000 fine in place of imprisonment.

The charges were initiated following a complaint by Offor in January 2024, resulting in Okonkwo’s initial arrest. Evidence presented included a phone call linked to Okonkwo through Truecaller identification, suggesting his connection to the defamatory post. Justice Agbata concluded that the evidence substantiated the conviction.

Defense attorney S.I. Okonkwo voiced mixed sentiments, relieved about the fine option but disappointed with the verdict. He argued that the defamed entities were corporate bodies rather than Offor personally, and thus questioned the sufficiency of the prosecution’s case. The defense hinted at the possibility of contesting the ruling but appreciated the fine option provided by the court.

NAIRA APPRECIATES IN OFFICIAL MARKET, TRADING AT N1,630.45 TO THE DOLLAR

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On Tuesday, the Naira appreciated in the official market, closing at N1,630.45 to the dollar, reflecting a 2.40% gain from Monday’s rate of N1,670.65. Data from the FMDQ official trading platform highlighted this improvement in Nigeria’s currency performance.

Additionally, the daily turnover rose significantly, reaching $242.59 million on Tuesday, compared to the $81.17 million recorded on Monday, signaling increased trading activity. At the Investors and Exporters (I&E) window, the Naira traded within a range of N1,690 and N1,601 against the dollar.

BOEING INVITES NIGERIAN AVIATION MINISTER TO AIRLINE ECONOMICS CONFERENCE FOR AIRCRAFT LEASING SUPPORT

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Barely two months after Nigeria’s Federal Government signed an MoU with Boeing, the aircraft manufacturer has invited Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, to Dublin, Ireland, for the Airline Economics Conference on January 12, 2025. The conference aims to assist Nigeria’s domestic operators with aircraft leasing solutions.

Recently, Nigeria’s global aviation rating improved from 70.5% to 75.5%, following the signing of the Cape Town Convention Practice Direction and the Updated Procedure for Recordation of Irrevocable Deregistration and Export Request Authorization (IDERA). This upgrade, led by the Aviation Working Group co-chaired by Boeing and Airbus, signals increased confidence in Nigeria’s aviation market.

In a letter dated October 24, 2024, Commercial Sales Director Moore Ibekwe acknowledged Keyamo’s leadership in enhancing Nigeria’s aviation industry. He highlighted the positive media attention on Nigerian aviation and expressed Boeing’s intention to capitalize on this momentum. Boeing has also been collaborating with Nigerian banks and Africa Trade Investment Development Insurance (ATIDI) to create a Credit Enhancement product, boosting security for global lessors interested in Nigeria.

The forum will feature representatives from the Ministry, the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Nigerian banks, financiers, and Boeing. It aims to support Nigerian airlines in leasing aircraft over the next 24 months by establishing focused opportunities for global lessors, charting a promising path for Nigerian aviation.

SETTING AND PRIORITIZING YOUR FINANCIAL GOALS FOR STABILITY AND SUCCESS

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Setting and prioritizing financial goals is key to achieving long-term stability and peace of mind. Whether you’re saving for retirement, reducing debt, or building an emergency fund, clear financial goals help you stay focused. Here’s a guide to help you set, organize, and prioritize your financial objectives for the year.

1. Assess Your Current Financial Situation

Start by reviewing your income, expenses, debts, and savings. This assessment helps you set realistic goals by giving a full picture of your financial standing, making it easier to identify immediate opportunities or challenges.

2. Prioritize Early Debt Repayment

If you’re carrying high-interest debt, like credit cards, prioritize repayment. High-interest debt costs more over time and can hinder achieving other goals, so focusing on early repayment reduces financial stress and improves your credit score.

3. Identify Short-Term and Long-Term Goals

List your goals by timeframe: short-term goals, like paying off a small loan, and long-term goals, like retirement planning. This allows you to allocate resources effectively, balancing immediate needs with future aspirations.

4. Build an Emergency Fund

An emergency fund, ideally covering three to six months of expenses, is a financial safety net. It prepares you for unexpected costs and helps keep you on track with other goals. Start small and increase your contributions over time.

5. Save for Retirement

Begin retirement savings early to take advantage of compound interest. Review contributions annually and increase them when possible, ensuring a secure financial future.

6. Invest for the Future

Investing helps grow your wealth over time. Allocate part of your income to stocks, bonds, or property based on your risk tolerance. Early investing benefits from compound returns, which support long-term financial growth.

7. Create a Realistic Budget

A budget is essential for financial management. List your income and expenses, and allocate funds toward your goals. A balanced budget supports disciplined financial progress.

8. Regularly Track and Adjust Your Goals

Financial situations change, so adjust goals as needed. Tracking progress helps you stay accountable and ensures you’re moving toward financial success.

 

Prioritizing financial goals provides a roadmap to stability and success. By setting clear objectives, focusing on debt repayment, building savings, and planning for retirement, you’ll build a solid foundation for your future. Regular reviews and adjustments help you stay on track, ensuring steady progress toward long-term financial security.

PRESIDENT TINUBU URGES IMPLEMENTATION OF NAIRA-BASED SALES FOR CRUDE OIL AND REFINED PRODUCTS

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President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday praised the efforts of the Implementation Committee on Naira-based sales for crude oil and refined products and encouraged swift solutions to any initial challenges. In a review meeting held at the State House in Abuja, he emphasized that the decision to conduct oil transactions in Naira was intended to bypass exchange rate complexities that have previously hindered the industry.

“Whatever solution we propose for crude oil and refined products sales in Naira should not revert us to the experiences of the past 40 years,” President Tinubu stated. He emphasized that while adjustments in oil sector costs and revenue may be necessary, the approach should fundamentally differ from past practices.

Tinubu called on key players, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Ltd. (NNPCL) and the Dangote Refinery, to prioritize improving the economy and enhancing the livelihoods of Nigerians. He stressed the importance of focusing on domestic supply to curb dependency on petroleum imports, thus freeing up foreign exchange for investment in the real sector.

To facilitate Naira pricing, the President recommended using Afreximbank as a settlement bank, highlighting its current role as financial adviser for the initiative. “The market must determine what we are doing. Once we allow the market to define profit and loss, independent marketers and government can find common ground,” he stated.

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT INITIATES CNG CONVERSION FOR 800 AIRPORT TAXIS TO REDUCE TRANSPORT COSTS BY 30%

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As part of the Federal Government’s efforts to reduce transportation costs, the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) has signed an agreement with Airport Taxi Operators at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja to convert 800 taxis to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fuel. This initiative is expected to lower airport taxi fares by about 30%.

At the signing ceremony, PCNGI Programme Director and Chief Executive Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi, represented by Programme Execution Coordinator Mr. Folarin Oworo, highlighted the government’s commitment to providing an affordable, cleaner, and sustainable fuel option. Oluwagbemi reaffirmed the Federal Government’s goal to convert one million vehicles nationwide to CNG, with the initial phase covering 50% (400) of the airport taxis before implementing the fare reduction.

Oluwagbemi detailed that each taxi will display a price card reflecting the 30% discount according to the passenger’s destination, with frequent monitoring to ensure compliance.

On safety, Oluwagbemi assured that CNG cylinders are built to rigorous standards, effectively “bulletproof,” and that the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has certified the equipment. He advised against illegal conversions, as explosions could only occur with tampering or the use of unauthorized cylinders. PCNGI also plans to introduce various sizes of certified cylinders, including 65 and 75 liters, to minimize refueling time and accommodate diverse vehicle needs.

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO RESTORE ELECTRICITY TO NORTHERN NIGERIA WITHIN 72 HOURS

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The Federal Government has announced plans to restore electricity to Northern Nigeria within the next 72 hours. During a session with the Senate Committee on Power, chaired by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA, Abia South), Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu addressed the power outage affecting the northern region and the recurring grid collapses across the country.

Adelabu revealed that as an interim solution, power would be routed through the Ugwuaji-Makurdi transmission line, which will supply approximately 80% of the affected states. “Power will be restored to the North in two to three days. We will use the Ugwuaji-Makurdi transmission line temporarily,” Adelabu stated.

The Minister also noted ongoing collaboration with security agencies to access damaged grid areas currently occupied by vandals. Full restoration, including repairs to the damaged lines, is expected within the next 14 days once full access is granted.

The Transmission Company of Nigeria previously reported that the outage, affecting the North-East, North-West, and parts of North-Central Nigeria, was caused by the tripping of the 330-kilovolt (kV) Ugwaji-Apir double circuit transmission lines on October 22. Nafisatu Ali, Executive Director of the Independent System Operator, further explained that the Shiroro-Kaduna transmission line was vandalized by insurgents. Following the incident, President Bola Tinubu directed the military to secure the power lines while repairs are underway.

Minister of Interior Signs Performance Contracts with Agency Heads to Boost Service Delivery

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Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, along with the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, has signed performance contracts with agency heads within the Ministry to enhance service delivery and accountability. The contracts include specific, measurable timelines to ensure that Nigerians experience improved services and security.

At the signing ceremony during a retreat in Abuja titled “United Front for a Secure Nation and Future,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo highlighted that the initiative is focused on achieving substantial improvements in Nigeria’s security and service quality. “This initiative is about the effect on Nigerians and on Nigeria as a whole,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of measurable deliverables and quarterly appraisals for each agency to assess progress. This performance-driven approach is aligned with the “Renewed Hope Agenda” under President Tinubu, aiming for tangible results and reduced excuses.

The Minister stressed that effective leadership is critical for the success of the Ministry’s mandate, describing this as a “business unusual” era. Dr. Ajani added that each staff member in the Ministry now has a clearly defined role, ensuring a unified commitment to achieving measurable improvements across all sectors under the Ministry’s purview.

Governor Sanwo-Olu Denies Lawsuit Against EFCC Over Alleged Post-Tenure Arrest Plan

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Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has denied media reports claiming he filed a lawsuit against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to block any alleged plans to arrest or prosecute him after his tenure. In a statement issued by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, on Tuesday, the governor clarified he has neither sued the EFCC nor has any reason to do so.

The statement, addressing widespread reports, stated, “Mr. Sanwo-Olu did not sue the EFCC in any court, as he has no reason to do so.” It emphasized that the governor, still with nearly three years left in office and protected by immunity, has neither been investigated nor contacted by the EFCC regarding any alleged misconduct.

Reports circulated earlier suggesting that Sanwo-Olu had filed a lawsuit through his lawyer, Darlington Ozurumba, at a Federal High Court in Abuja. The purported lawsuit sought to preclude any EFCC action against him following his term. When the case was mentioned in court on Tuesday, EFCC counsel Hadiza Afegbua mentioned she had not reviewed the newly amended summons, prompting Justice Joyce Abdulmalik to adjourn the matter until November 11.

The alleged summons reportedly claimed that potential EFCC actions would infringe upon Sanwo-Olu’s constitutional rights, including his right to privacy and protection against harassment.

ACF CALLS FOR STATE OF EMERGENCY OVER POWER OUTAGES IN NORTHERN NIGERIA

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The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has urgently called for a State of Emergency regarding the ongoing power outages plaguing northern Nigeria. Over the past week, the region has faced severe electricity supply disruptions, causing near-total paralysis of economic and social activities.

Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the National Publicity Secretary of the ACF, expressed concern about the situation, stating that it has led to widespread frustration among the populace. He noted that statements from officials at the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) suggest the power issues may continue indefinitely due to technical and security challenges.

The impact of the outages is profound, affecting even the smallest businesses, such as telephone recharge points, barbing salons, and food processors, many of which rely on stable electricity for their daily operations. Medium-scale enterprises, including rice mills and bakeries, are also struggling, particularly those unable to afford high fuel costs or lacking alternative power sources.

“Home and office operations are hindered, with cooling and heating systems failing and nighttime darkness reminiscent of pre-civilization,” ACF highlighted, pointing out the lack of response from government officials regarding the situation. This silence has led to growing speculation about a possible deliberate strategy by the Federal Government to economically disadvantage the North.

The ACF criticized the apparent indifference of federal leaders, including the Minister for Power and state governors, noting that the issue has not prompted significant reactions from state assemblies. Only a few voices in the National Assembly have bravely spoken out, highlighting the entrenched silence among elected officials.

The organization also pointed out the inequities in electricity generation and distribution, emphasizing that, despite the North’s significant contribution to electricity generation, it receives the least supply. For instance, while Lagos has eight substations, the entire northern region, which holds more than half of Nigeria’s population, has only three substations located in Jos, Kaduna, and Kano.

The ACF’s statement underscores the urgency of the power crisis, framing it as a national security threat and a clear abdication of responsibility by public officials.

NMDPRA BOOSTS DOMESTIC REFINING CAPACITY WITH NEW LICENSES AND STRATEGIC INITIATIVES

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The Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has issued nine Licenses to Establish (LTEs), seven Licenses to Construct (LTCs), and four Licenses to Operate (LTOs) for modular refineries, signaling a significant move towards enhancing the country’s domestic refining capabilities.

During his keynote address at the 18th OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week in Lagos, NMDPRA Chief Executive Engr. Farouk Ahmed highlighted the government’s ambition to achieve a production target of three million barrels of crude oil per day and to increase domestic gas utilization to 10 billion standard cubic feet per day. He stated that expanding local refining capacity would position Nigeria as a net exporter of petroleum products.

“In the past year, the NMDPRA has engaged stakeholders to revise and consolidate regulations, streamlining the regulatory framework to enhance compliance,” Ahmed noted, adding that efforts are underway to automate processes for improved regulatory clarity.

Ahmed also addressed the development of the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGP) project, which aims to facilitate natural gas movement across West Africa, and suggested a potential partnership with East and Southern African regulators to establish a pan-African Energy Regulators Association.

He emphasized the promotion of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative fuel, with plans to expand CNG infrastructure through initiatives like the Pi-CNG, the Decade of Gas Program, and the MDGIF. “Our goal is to accelerate CNG infrastructure expansion at most retail outlets, supporting the growing number of CNG vehicles nationwide,” he added.

Mr. Adetunji Oyebanji, Chairman of the OTL Africa Downstream Energy Week Advisory Board, commended the recent deregulation of Nigeria’s downstream sector and the commissioning of the Dangote Refinery, which has a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day. He emphasized that this development marks a significant milestone for Nigeria and the West African region, fostering competition, transparency, and stability within the sector.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu urged investors to collaborate with the government to meet the rising energy demands of the state, stating, “Our government is committed to ensuring that Lagos leads in energy innovation, investment, and sustainability. We have created an investment-friendly environment that encourages sustainable practices and technological advancement.”

The government’s initiatives aim to create a robust energy sector that promotes growth, innovation, and inclusivity, contributing to a transformative period in Nigeria’s refining capacity and energy infrastructure.