As the non-oil sector gains prominence in international trade, Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are taking significant steps to enhance collaboration in the solid minerals sector. This initiative was announced by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, following a courtesy visit from the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, H.E. Salem Shaeed Al Shamsi.

Historical Partnership and Trade Expansion

Dr. Alake reflected on the historical significance of the over 50-year relationship between Nigeria and the UAE, emphasizing the need to deepen these ties through expanded trade in mining. He noted Nigeria’s vast reserves of globally sought-after minerals and highlighted the UAE’s status as a major hub for mineral trade.

“The mining sector presents significant opportunities for collaboration. While there is considerable trade in gold, much of it remains illegal, with a large portion of Nigerian gold unlawfully ending up in the UAE,” Alake stated. He proposed developing strategies to combat illegal gold trade and establishing a regulatory framework to legitimize this trade, enabling both nations to maximize their benefits.

Technology Transfer and Regulatory Framework

In addition to trade discussions, Dr. Alake expressed interest in partnering with the UAE on technology transfer to advance Nigeria’s mining sector. This collaboration aims to improve mining practices and enhance the efficiency of the sector.

UAE’s Commitment to Strengthening Relations

Ambassador Al Shamsi reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to reinforcing its longstanding relationship with Nigeria. He noted the recent resolution of visa restrictions and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between UAE companies and Nigeria via the Solid Minerals Development Fund (SMDF). “The lifting of visa application restrictions and the launch of a new visa application website demonstrate my country’s dedication to advancing bilateral relations,” he said.

Upcoming Economic Forum

Ambassador Al Shamsi also announced an upcoming Nigeria-UAE economic forum scheduled to take place in Nigeria. This event is expected to feature participation from 30 to 35 major companies from the Middle East and UAE, aimed at boosting Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) in Nigeria.

This initiative reflects a strong commitment from both countries to foster economic growth and collaboration in the solid minerals sector, leveraging Nigeria’s rich mineral resources and the UAE’s trade expertise.

Laurel Leaf Communications, a leading event, media, and advertising agency, is thrilled to announce a new empowerment initiative in collaboration with the Ondo State Government. This program, facilitated through the office of the Senior Special Adviser to the Ondo State Governor on Students Affairs, Hon. Kelvin Solomom Olaolu (KSO), aims to inspire creativity and innovation among student entrepreneurs in the state.

The 2024 Lead Awards: A Platform for Discussion and Growth

In a groundbreaking move, the 2024 Lead Awards will also provide a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs in Ondo State to participate in a roundtable discussion focused on innovation and creativity. This thirty-minute panel session, powered by the Growth Hub, will leverage the expertise of various organizations to create a collaborative environment for community members, small businesses, and local leaders.

The session will cover key areas such as education, economic development, digital transformation, and social impact, enabling participants to share knowledge and access vital resources.

Commitment to Youth Welfare

Speaking on the partnership, Hon. Kelvin Solomom Olaolu expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasizing the Ondo State Government’s commitment to the welfare of its youth. “We are excited to join forces with Laurel Leaf Communications to create meaningful opportunities for young people in Ondo State through the LEAD Awards. This partnership represents the commitment of His Excellency, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, to driving positive change and supporting sustainable development in Ondo State. Together, we aim to build a more inclusive and empowered future for our youths, especially students,” he stated.

Empowering the Next Generation

Ms. Adebukola Oba, the Chief Executive Officer of Laurel Leaf Communications, expressed gratitude to the state government and urged young entrepreneurs to seize this opportunity. “I want to thank the state government under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for his support. We prioritize the welfare of the Ondo State people, and that was why the Leadership Excellence and Dignity Awards were established. This year, we aim not just to reward our patriots but also to empower the rising generation, especially those pursuing entrepreneurship,” she said.

Adebukola further highlighted the features of the 2024 LEAD Awards, which will include a mentorship session designed to provide student entrepreneurs with access to specialized tools and resources. “We want our audience to learn from industry experts, develop critical skills, and connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference,” she added.

Looking Ahead

Laurel Leaf Communications and the Ondo State Government are excited about the potential impact of this partnership. With the support of the Growth Hub, they are confident that this initiative will create lasting change and encourage community members to actively shape their futures. More information will be rolled out in the coming weeks, marking a significant step towards empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs in Ondo State.

In a nation where youth constitute a significant demographic, empowering the next generation is crucial for sustainable development. Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, a prominent politician and former governor of Abia State, has emerged as a key advocate for youth empowerment and education in Nigeria. His dedication to these causes is evident through his legislative efforts and the various programs he has spearheaded over the years.

Advocacy for Youth Empowerment

Senator Kalu’s commitment to youth empowerment is grounded in his belief that Nigeria’s future hinges on its young people. He consistently emphasizes the necessity of investing in the youth by providing opportunities and resources for them to thrive. His approach is multifaceted, encompassing education, skill development, entrepreneurship, and leadership training.

A cornerstone of Kalu’s initiatives is his strong support for entrepreneurship. Acknowledging the high unemployment rates affecting young people, he has promoted programs that encourage self-reliance and entrepreneurial ventures. Through the Orji Uzor Kalu Foundation, he has offered financial support and mentorship to young entrepreneurs, aiding them in establishing and expanding their businesses. These initiatives have not only created jobs but have also fostered innovation and stimulated local economic growth.

Kalu’s dedication to youth empowerment also extends to leadership development. He advocates for the active inclusion of young people in decision-making processes at both local and national levels. By empowering youth to assume leadership roles, he believes they can provide fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to Nigeria’s challenges. His support for initiatives like youth parliaments and leadership training programs aims to equip young Nigerians with essential skills for effective leadership.

Educational Reforms: Building a Strong Foundation

Education lies at the core of Senator Kalu’s vision for youth empowerment. He recognizes that a well-educated population is vital for national progress and that investing in education is one of the most effective means of empowering the youth. Throughout his political career, Kalu has been a strong proponent of educational reforms aimed at enhancing access to quality education and equipping students with skills necessary for success in a modern economy.

One of Kalu’s notable contributions to education is his advocacy for curriculum reform. He has called for the alignment of Nigeria’s educational curriculum with the needs of the 21st-century workforce, particularly stressing the significance of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. Kalu has backed initiatives promoting STEM education in schools, including scholarships and grants for students pursuing degrees in STEM fields. By championing these reforms, he seeks to prepare young Nigerians for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.

Conclusion

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and education is shaping the future of Nigeria. Through his multifaceted approach that includes entrepreneurship support, leadership development, and educational reforms, he is providing young people with the necessary tools to succeed in an ever-evolving global landscape. His efforts reflect a profound understanding of the pivotal role youth play in the country’s development and the need for strategic investments in their potential.

The Nigerian Senate has voiced strong disapproval of the military’s delays in disbursing insurance benefits to deceased and retired personnel, affecting 174 families in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) alone. The Senate Committee on Code of Conduct, Ethics, and Public Petitions, led by Senator Neda Imasuen (LP, Edo South), addressed the issue following a petition from Master Warrant Officer Rukayat Ajoke Ishola, who alleged non-payment of insurance benefits for her late husband, Warrant Officer Daramola Taiwo, who died in April 2016.

Ishola’s petition outlined the delays in her husband’s insurance payment and the denial of educational benefits for her child, which are typically provided to children of fallen military personnel. She also claimed that harassment from certain NAF officers forced her to go absent without leave (AWOL) to protect herself.

In response, Wing Commander Mohammed Saleh explained that the delays were unintentional and acknowledged that many NAF families were experiencing similar issues. He stated that Ishola’s late husband was not entitled to educational benefits for their child, as he did not die in “active service,” a designation applied only to those who die in combat or field duty, as per regulations amended in 2021.

Senator Imasuen and the committee found this explanation unacceptable, emphasizing the prolonged wait for benefits that have been due for nearly nine years. The committee announced plans to send a formal letter to the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, urging prompt payment of Ishola’s husband’s insurance benefits. They also recommended that Ishola’s child be included in the NAF’s school fees program and called for Ishola’s honorable discharge from the NAF with full retirement benefits.

Windsor Gallery is set to host a captivating dual exhibition titled The Eighth Continent and Mouvements Poétiques, celebrating African art and exploring rich narratives of identity, movement, and global interconnectedness. The exhibitions will run from November 1 to November 29, 2024, featuring the works of renowned artists Duke Asidere, Mederic Turay, and Didier Viode.

The Eighth Continent invites viewers on a journey through an uncharted landscape, showcasing the visionary works of Duke Asidere and Mederic Turay. Asidere, celebrated for his bold use of color and profound societal commentary, weaves abstraction with themes of identity and emotion. His pieces encourage audiences to engage with Africa’s modern narratives, reflecting on its complexities and vibrancy.

Mederic Turay’s contributions further enrich this exhibition, adding layers of interpretation and artistic dialogue. The combination of these artists’ perspectives creates a dynamic exploration of contemporary African identity.

The Mouvements Poétiques exhibition complements this by delving into poetic expressions of movement, further emphasizing the interconnectedness of cultures and experiences.

Visitors can look forward to a thought-provoking experience that highlights the depth and diversity of African cultural expression.

Renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dr. Adebola Akindele, has been honored with the South-West Hall of Fame award at the 2024 Synergy Meritorious Award ceremony, held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

In his acceptance speech, Akindele commended the organizers and encouraged South-West youths to strive for excellence in all their endeavors, highlighting the importance of hard work and dedication.

Other notable award recipients included Mr. Oluwatobi Ajayi, Chief Executive Officer of Nord Motors, who received the Man of the Year Award, and Mr. Olabode Oluwadamilare, a popular influencer on X (formerly Twitter), who was recognized as the South-West Social Media Trailblazer of the Year.

During the event, Adewale Kazeem, the convener of the award, emphasized the importance of celebrating brilliant minds and the significant contributions of individuals in various sectors. He stated, “The Synergy Awards is an annual ceremony honoring outstanding personalities, youths, and students in the South-West who have made significant impacts in their respective fields and industries, including tech, entrepreneurship, entertainment, business, and more.”

Prof. Oguejiofor Ujam, a lecturer at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has regained his freedom after being kidnapped by gunmen. According to police reports, Ujam escaped his captors following an operation by the Enugu State Police Command on October 28, 2024, around 7:10 p.m. This operation took place in the Neke-Uno area of the Enugu/Opi/Nsukka Road, where police successfully foiled a kidnapping attempt.

Ujam had been abducted on October 26 while traveling on the Ugwuogo-Opi Nsukka Road. During the police operation to rescue him, a gunfight erupted between the officers and the suspects, who fled with gunshot wounds. Authorities recovered an AK-47 rifle, two magazines containing 22 rounds of ammunition, and a chain of 39 live rounds from the scene.

In response to ongoing security challenges in the area, Enugu State Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, has ordered additional personnel and resources to enhance police operations along the critical Enugu/Opi/Nsukka route. He reassured the public about their safety in the area.

Additionally, the police clarified reports regarding a purported kidnapping of a Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officer traveling from Benue State, stating that no such incident had occurred in Enugu State.

The industrial action initiated by non-teaching staff in public universities has entered its second day, with more institutions joining the strike on Tuesday. This nationwide strike was called by the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Allied Institutions (NASU) in response to ongoing issues, including four months of delayed salaries.

Institutions like the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and other universities in the South-East, which were unable to participate in the strike on Monday due to local sit-at-home orders, officially joined the action on Tuesday. A lecturer at UNN noted the significant disruption the strike has caused on campus, stating, “The strike by the non-academic staff started today here on campus at UNN. The sit-at-home observance did not allow it to begin Monday as people stayed at home.”

At the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), members of SSANU and NASU also officially joined the indefinite strike. The chairman of NASU at UNILORIN, Zubair Haruna Ibrahim, confirmed the action, emphasizing that they would not return to work until their demands were met. He pointed out the disparity in payments, noting that while members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) received partial payments, non-teaching staff remained unpaid.

Statement from SSANU President

Comrade Mohamed Ibrahim, the National President of SSANU, expressed frustration over the government’s lack of communication regarding their issues. He stated, “Nobody from the side of the government has reached out to us. The claim by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Education that they are disappointed in us for the action we took is out of point. What do they expect us to do? Have we not been patient enough?”

Ibrahim reiterated that the strike would continue until their salary issues were resolved, underscoring the vital role of non-teaching staff in the university system. As the strike progresses, administrative activities across affected universities remain paralyzed, with essential services halted as unions demand the release of withheld salaries and equitable treatment

Jelili Sulaimon, the suspended chairman of the Alimosho Local Government Area in Lagos State, has issued a formal apology to the members of the state Assembly, seeking forgiveness following his suspension due to misconduct and disrespect towards the House.

His apology comes just a month after he was suspended for non-compliance and a defiant attitude towards the legislative body. In a letter addressed to Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, which was read on the floor of the House, Sulaimon acknowledged that his actions might have disrespected the Assembly.

In his letter, Sulaimon expressed regret and committed to showing maximum respect to the House moving forward. He also indicated his intention to work collaboratively with the legislators to mend the relationship. Furthermore, he communicated through his lawyers that he had withdrawn the lawsuit he filed against the Assembly at the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The letter of apology included the following sentiments:

“I am writing to express my most sincere and heartfelt apology for any actions or inactions, misrepresentation or conduct on my part that may have contributed to the recent misunderstanding between myself and the esteemed Lagos State House of Assembly under your leadership.

“Upon reflection, I realized that my conduct and certain decisions I made might have been perceived as disrespectful or contrary to the standard of leadership and the mutual respect that defines the relationship between the Assembly and the local government leadership.

“This was never my intention. I deeply regret any discomfort or displeasure this may have caused your personality as well as the entire House.

“I have always held the Lagos State House of Assembly and your esteemed office in particular in the highest regard.”

Sulaimon’s apology reflects his desire to restore harmony and cooperation between the local government and the state Assembly, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect in governance.

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.

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.”

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.