The Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, has said Nigeria can become Africa’s beacon of hope with competent, committed, and compassionate leadership.

He said this while addressing African youths at the Africa Together Conference, which had the theme “The Making of Africa’s Future Presidents,” yesterday at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom.

On Sunday, the former Anambra State Governor shared his thoughts and experiences on his X handle.

He said, “Yesterday, at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom, I was honoured with an invitation to address African youths in the African Together Conference tagged ‘The Making of Africa’s Future Presidents.”

“I was delighted to interact with these youths drawn from different African countries and passionate about making a positive difference in society. I was inspired by the energy and determination of these young leaders, and I remain committed to empowering them to shape Africa’s future.

“Our discussion centred on the pathway to dismantling corruption and building a better future for our continent.

“I reiterated how investing in the critical areas of human and national development, education, health, and pulling people out of poverty can drive immeasurable growth and development in any nation and continent.

“Drawing examples from our comparable nations: China, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the continent of Asia, I showed how committed leadership can turn around any country and continent by prioritising investments in these areas.

“I shared insights from my political journey, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that come with serving the public. I maintained that Nigeria, and indeed Africa, can work for all if we dismantle corruption and rascality in governance and prioritise investment in the critical areas of development.

“With competent, committed, and compassionate leadership, Nigeria can become a beacon of hope, and Africa will rise to become a global economic powerhouse.

“I thank the African Society, University of Cambridge, for hosting this important event, and I also appreciate the young leaders who participated with such enthusiasm and dedication.

“As we strive to build the New Nigeria, we all must get involved in this important process of nation-building by ensuring that only competent, capable, committed leaders with character and integrity are elected into public offices.”

The Rivers State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Rivers State Police Command to tender an unreserved public apology over the assault on five journalists during a peaceful protest in Port Harcourt or risk a statewide media blackout.

This was contained in a statement jointly signed by the Council Chairman, Paul Bazia, and Secretary, Ijeoma Tubosia, yesterday in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

The NUJ condemned the actions of police officers involved, demanding their immediate identification and prosecution, noting that any further attack on journalists in the state would be vehemently resisted.

“The NUJ, as a watchdog of society, will not sit idly by while media practitioners are subjected to barbarism and brutality. Enough is enough,” the statement warned.

According to the union, the incident was “unprovoked, barbaric, and inhuman,” saying it amounted to a gross violation of the rights of the affected journalists.

Those assaulted include Charles Opurum of Channels TV, Allwell Ene of Naija FM, Soibelemari Oruwari of Nigeria Info, Ikezam Godswill of AIT, and Femi Ogunkhilede of Super FM.

The journalists were said to have been tear-gassed while covering the protest, with Opurum beaten, and detained by security operatives.

Expressing deep regret over the incident, the NUJ lamented that an institution tasked with safeguarding lives and property has turned its weapons on citizens, particularly journalists performing their lawful duties.

Despite the provocation, the union reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement and partnership with the police in the interest of peace and national development.

It, however, cautioned the police not to jeopardise the existing relationship with the media.

The NUJ also urged its members to remain calm and law-abiding, expressing hope that the police authorities would take decisive steps to address the matter and ensure a more respectful working relationship with journalists in Rivers State.

The Federal Government yesterday formally inaugurated the board and management of the Nigerian Independent System Operator, NISO, marking the official unbundling of the Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, into two separate entities.

Under the new structure, the Transmission Service Provider, TSP, will oversee TCN’s physical infrastructure, including transmission towers, power lines, and substations. Meanwhile, NISO will take charge of system operations, managing load allocation from generation companies to distribution companies and eligible customers.

Speaking at the induction ceremony organised by the Bureau of Public Enterprises, the Managing Director/CEO of NISO, Engr. Abdu Mohammed, stated that the company is committed to enhancing the reliability and stability of the national electricity grid.

Mohammed explained that the national grid would be managed in a transparent and pragmatic manner, ensuring that all operators play by the rules.

“Our major role in the power industry is to bring the needed changes in the system that will enhance availability, reliability, and quality of supply of electricity to Nigerians. In addition to that, we’re supposed to create an atmosphere, an environment of transparency, discipline, and orderliness in electricity business in Nigeria, meaning that participants in generation, transmission, distribution, and eligible customers behave in a passionate manner in line with the provisions of the market rules and the grid code.

“The coming on board of the NISO Board of Management will usher these qualities that are required to make the power sector tick, just like other power sectors in bigger jurisdictions.

“Now it’s a journey. It’s not a one-off business. The beginning of the journey starts today. We begin today, and we’re going to hit the ground running. Tomorrow, we’re going to Oshogbo, the National Control Center, to make sure that our operators are aligned to our vision, mission, objectives, and goals as enshrined in the Electricity Act 2023”, he added.

With the grid proving very unreliable following a series of collapses and trippings, Engr. Mohammed said: “We understand the challenges in the industry, and we’re going to tackle them pragmatically and systematically. We’re going to deal with these problems, like I said, it’s a journey, we’re starting from somewhere, and gradually, definitely with speed and quality, we shall be there to make sure that Nigerians enjoy a steady, reliable electricity supply in the nearest period”.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had two weeks ago appointed Dr. Adesegun Akin-Olugbade as NISO Board board chairman, with Engineer Abdu Mohammed as Managing Director.

The President also appointed four Executive Directors: Engineer Nafisatu Asabe Ali for Systems Operation, Engineer Shehu Abba-Aliyu for Systems Planning, Dr. Edmund Eje for Market Operations, and Mr. Babajide Ibironke for Finance and Corporate Services.

The Non-Executive Directors include Engineer Lamu Audu, representing Generation; Mrs Folake Soetan for Distribution; Mr Tajudeen Giwa-Osagie as Market Expert; Engineer Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz for Transmission, and Alhaji Mahmuda Mamman, Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Power.”

By Emma Ogbuehi

Foremost entrepreneur and founder of Diamond Bank, Pascal Gabriel Dozie, is dead. Media reports quote family sources as disclosing that he died in the early hours of Tuesday, a day to his 86th birthday.

Dozie was the founder of Diamond Bank, one of the country’s most innovative banks before its merger with Access Bank. He also served as the pioneer Chairman of MTN Nigeria, playing a pivotal role in shaping the country’s mobile telecommunications revolution.

Born on April 9, 1939 in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Dozie’s early brilliance took him from Our Lady’s School in Emekuku to the London School of Economics, where he studied economics and earned a master’s degree in administrative science.

In 1990, he founded Diamond Bank, which became one of Nigeria’s most respected financial institutions before its eventual merger with Access Bank. He later handed the reins to his son, Uzoma.

Dozie was also instrumental to the launching of MTN Nigeria, serving as its pioneer chairman and helping to lead the telecom revolution in the country. His leadership style marked by humility, integrity, and long-term vision earned him widespread recognition, including the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

He is survived by his wife Chinyere, and children.

The senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has filed a N5 billion suit against her colleague, Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, who represents the Ebonyi North Central Senatorial District, over alleged defamation.

The suit, filed by Akpoti-Uduaghan through her lawyer, Michael Numa, at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja, seeks to declare as false and malicious, statements made by Nwaebonyi during an interview on Channels Television on March 6, 2025.

According to the suit, Akpoti-Uduaghan asserted that Nwaebonyi described her as a “gold digger, habitual liar, and habitual blackmailer” during the interview.

Amongst others, she prayed the court to declare as false, malicious, and defamatory claims that she is a mother of six children from different men allegedly made by her colleague. She noted that such remarks undermine her reputation as a role model for women aspiring to enter politics.

“The defendant’s characterisation of the claimant as a ‘mother of six from different men’ is baseless, malicious, and reckless,” the suit states.

“The claimant is an inspiration to women in politics and aspiring women for speaking truth to power. “The claimant is not tarnishing the chances of women in politics as falsely alleged. Rather, she is inspiring women to be bold in their pursuit of political aspirations and good governance.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan in the suit contended that Nwaebonyi’s statements have caused significant harm to her reputation and public embarrassment.

The senator from Kogi proceeded to seek a court order restraining Nwaebonyi from making further malicious statements against her.

Additionally, she asked the court to direct Nwaebonyi to pay N5 billion in aggravated and exemplary damages for the false, malicious, and injurious statements made against her. She also requested that the court compel Nwaebonyi to retract the defamatory remarks on the same platform where they were initially made and issue an unreserved apology. The court filing seeks “an order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendant, his associates, agents, assignees, servants, privies, proxies, allies, or anyone acting on his behalf from further publishing or causing to be published the words complained of, or any other defamatory statements concerning the claimant.”

The document further requested “an order of this Honourable Court compelling the defendant to retract the defamatory statements on the same platforms used to make the allegations and to tender an unreserved apology in at least two national newspapers, both in print and online, circulated nationwide, within seven days from the date of judgment.” It also calls for “an order of this Honourable Court awarding the sum of N5 billion as aggravated and exemplary damages in favour of the claimant for the false, malicious, and injurious statements that have caused the claimant considerable distress, reputational harm, embarrassment, and emotional distress.”

She also sought, “an order of this Honourable Court awarding post-judgment interest on the judgment sum at a rate of 10percent per annum from the date of delivery of the judgment until the judgment debt is fully paid.”

The senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has criticised President Bola Tinubu over what he described as non-compliance with the federal character principle in political appointments.

Speaking on Arise TV’s Prime Time on Monday, the lawmaker accused the President of violating the constitutional requirement for balanced representation in government appointments.

Ndume pointed to Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates that political appointments reflect the country’s diversity.

“The figures are there. You can look at the figures. I sent you one. I sent you figures. It’s not that I’m just making accusations. And it’s not that I’m saying, well, the president has no right to do that kind of thing.

“But it’s a constitutional provision. Section 13, I mean, Section 14 (3) of the constitution is very, very clear,” he said. The senator added that the current appointments fail to align with the federal character principle as outlined by law.

“When you look at it vis-a-vis the appointments made so far, and there are political appointments, the constitution is very clear.

“It is because of avoiding such infractions that the constitution clearly states that appointments, especially political appointments, should reflect the federal character, and that is not the case here.  “And all I am saying is to call the attention of Mr President to such infractions so that it can be corrected; otherwise, you know, these things can boomerang at a certain period of time”, Ndume stated.

Ndume, a senior member of the National Assembly, clarified that his comments were not meant as a personal attack on the President but rather a duty tied to his role as a lawmaker. “I know, as you rightly say, people look at me as somebody that is critical of the government. I have the right to do that in the first place. And in fact, that’s why I’m in the National Assembly in the first place.

“Collectively, we are supposed to oversight the acts of Mr President and point out some of these irregularities. That is what we swore to do. It’s not personal”, he added.

Addressing potential backlash for his remarks, Ndume remained resolute.

“Each one of us will stand before God, and God will ask him to account for what he is responsible for. Besides, we are all in this government. What will we tell our people? When you have these figures out, it is already viral, it is already in circulation.

“But you know what, after this interview, those attack dogs or maga-dogs will start attacking Ndume, not the message.

“It is not about Ndume or me being a senator. As a Nigerian, I have the right to voice out all these things. Not only that, I have the right to even protest. I have the right. That is guaranteed by the constitution. But from tomorrow, those so-called Tinubu boys or people will start attacking Ndume. These are the facts”, the lawmaker said.

By Abah Sunday, Abuja…

An Abuja High Court yesterday awarded N100 million in general damages against Louisville Girls Secondary School Gwagwalada for negligence of duty which led to the death of a student.

Justice Sylvanus Oriji delivered the judgment in a suit filed by Mr Ifeanyi Ikpeatusim, accusing the school of negligence that resulted in the death of his 9-year-old daughter, Kamzie.

In the suit marked CV/1738/18, Ikpeatusim alleged that the school’s failure to provide adequate medical attention to Kamzie who fell ill shortly after her admission prompted her untimely death.

Kamzie was admitted as a boarding student in September 2017 and became severely ill by October 2. She died a few days later.

According to the report, Justice Oriji held that the evidence presented clearly showed the school and its agents acted negligently by failing to attend promptly and adequately to Kamzie’s medical needs.

“The claimant established his allegations of negligence against the school. There is no amount of money that can bring back the child to life,” the judge ruled.

The court awarded N100 million as general damages and ordered a 10 per cent interest on the judgment sum from April 8 until full payment.

An additional N300,000 was awarded as the cost of the suit.

Justice Oriji noted that one significant outcome of the case was the improvement of the school’s sickbay following the incident.

He remarked that the presence of doctors attending to students twice daily was a commendable development.

Though the claimant had requested that a school structure be named in honour of Kamzie, Justice Oriji however held otherwise.

Oriji said: “The court is of the opinion that the improvement in the sickbay, ensuring doctors are available twice daily, is in honour of Kamzie, as part of reforms recommended by her family.

“The claimant should take solace in the fact that Kamzie has been honoured by the school through these improvements.”

By Abah Sunday, Abuja…

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike while inspecting projects in Abuja has  expressed concerns  about land hoarding by public institutions.

This is coming as the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), gears up for scores of project inauguration to mark President Bola Tinubu’s second year in office on May 29, FCT.

Wike disclosed this to newsmen in Abuja at weekend after an inspection of the 15-kilometre OSEX Road leading to Wassa, being handled by CGC Construction, culminating at the road leading to the EFCC Academy.

Wike who expressed satisfaction over the pace and quality of work done by the contractors was visibly unimpressed with the size of land acquired by the University of Abuja, and voiced strong concerns over what he described as “land grabbing in the name of education.”.

He did not spare the Nigerian Police either,

who were put on notice over undeveloped parcels of land allocated to them years ago.

He said: “We are very happy with what we are seeing and the quality of jobs. Mr President will be happy too when he comes to inaugurate them. This is what it means to keep promises made.”

“You can’t deny development where a university will go and take over 1,000 hectares of land, for what purpose? We’ve been to universities across the country. Just grabbing land is not what makes a university; it is infrastructure and quality.

“What future are we talking about?” Wike fired back when asked if the land might be for long-term expansion.

“Before you know it, they will begin to lease it out. If you don’t develop it, the government will take it back and give it to those who will.”

Pressed on whether the administration would reclaim the land, the Minister said, “Don’t jump the gun. Let the Director of Lands come to me. We’ll invite the university and the Police and ask why they’ve not developed the area.” He said.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has described the late Chief Padcal Dozie as one of the nation’s most intrepid entrepreneurs.

Late Chief Paschal Dozie died early Tuesday, the passing Obasanjo said was received with mixed feelings of sadness and gratitude to God.

In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, the former President said he was “sad because we will miss his contribution to the building of a new Nigeria of his dream, but I am grateful to God for such a life well spent in the service of our fatherland.

“We thank God for his life. He lived to the ripe age of 85, and in the course of this, he was able to make an impact, not just at the family level but also within the community and his profession.

In his tribute, Obasanjo said the late Dozie was “a serial entrepreneur who rose to become one of the major figures and icons in the Nigerian business and entrepreneurial community in the 20th and 21st centuries in Nigeria.

He was a former Chairman of the MTN Foundation, former Board Member of the African Capital Alliance, founder and the main inspiration behind the defunct Diamond Bank, and former President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, among others. I am impressed by his humility and his humanism.

He had friends across the social strata, and he did not discriminate, irrespective of age or social status. Through all of the businesses he ventured into, he created thousands of jobs for many Nigerians, irrespective of tribe and religion.

To Obasanjo, “I celebrate a man who lived a life of purpose, a life of achievement and who impacted the lives of many Nigerians by creating jobs and opportunities for generations who I believe will always remember him as one of those diamonds that Nigeria produced. Indeed, the great outpouring of sympathy for the family and his loved ones since his death was announced is also an eloquent testimony to the enduring, nationwide bonds of comradeship and friendship which Paschal forged in his many years of service to our nation. He was a great man!

“My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time as they mourn the passing of this illustrious son of Africa.

“On behalf of my family and my behalf, I express sincere condolences and pray God to grant them all the grace to bear this great loss.

“May the gentle soul of the dear departed rest in perfect peace.

Former Governor of Imo State, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the founder of defunct Diamond Bank, Pascal Gabriel Dozie, describing him as “an Iroko from the East” and one of Nigeria’s finest Ambassadors.

In a condolence message yesterday, Ihedioha said the news of the elder statesman’s death had reverberated across the nation, casting a shadow of grief on all who knew him and drew inspiration from his life.

“Fondly called Nda Pascal by his people, he was not just a titan in the corporate world but also a pillar of wisdom, integrity, and quiet strength,” Ihedioha said.

He praised Dozie’s trailblazing career, highlighting his roles as the founding Chairman of Diamond Bank PLC, former Chairman of MTN Nigeria, former President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and former Chairman of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group, among others.

“Beyond boardrooms and titles, Nda Pascal was a true elder statesman — a distinguished entrepreneur of rare pedigree, a mentor to many, and a beacon of excellence and humility,” Ihedioha added.

He noted that Dozie’s legacy lives on not only through the institutions he built but also in the countless lives he touched and inspired.

“We have indeed lost one of our finest ambassadors who put us in a positive limelight,” he stated, praying for the repose of Dozie’s soul and strength for his loved ones.

The late entrepreneur and businessman passed away on Tuesday, April 8, at the age of 85.

The Nigeria Immigration Service has apprehended no fewer than 51 suspected irregular migrants of Malian origin at New Nyanya, Karu Local Government of Nasarawa State.

This is contained in a statement by the Service Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi yesterday in Abuja.

Mr. Akinlabi said that preliminary investigations conducted by the service suggested that the migrants may have been victims of Trafficking in Persons, TIP, and Smuggling of Migrants, SOM.

This, he said, was because they were found without valid travel documents or residence permits.

According to him, they were apprehended on Monday, following a credible intelligence.

The breakdown of the arrested migrants indicates 11 females and 40 males between the ages of 16 and 19.

“The arrested individuals have been taken into the custody of the service for further profiling and investigation.

“This is to determine the circumstances of their migration and any potential involvement in trafficking or smuggling networks or syndicates”, he said.

Mr. Akinlabi said that the NIS remained committed to ensuring that Nigeria’s borders were protected against illegal migration, while upholding the rights of migrants who complied with the country’s immigration laws.

He said that the Service would continue to work closely with relevant authorities and stakeholders to combat smuggling of migrants and counter trafficking in persons effectively.

The spokesperson reassured the general public of the NIS unwavering commitment to National Security and Migration Management.

He encouraged citizens to report suspicious migration activities to the nearest NIS Commands and Formations.

The Federal Government (FG) recorded a N12.95 trillion budget deficit in 2024.

This represented a 41 percent increase from its N9.16 trillion budgeted deficit for the review period.

Details of data from the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Quarterly Economic Reports for 2024 showed that the deficit increased by 0.77 percent Year-on-Year (YoY) compared to N12.85 trillion recorded in 2023.

Further breakdown of data showed that in 2024 the FG expenditure stood at N21.5 trillion, up by 12 percent YoY   from N19.19 trillion in 2023, but down by 25.2 percent from the 2024 budget of   N28.76 trillion.

However, revenue grew YoY by 34.8 percent to N8.55 trillion in 2024   from N6.34 trillion in 2023 and down by 56 percent from the 2024 budget of N19.56 trillion.

In its fourth quarter 2024 Economic Reports, the apex bank noted that FGs   expenditure   rose by 2.22 percent to N5.6 trillion on account of higher personnel cost and interest payments.

At N5.6 trillion, provisional aggregate expenditure was 2.22 per cent above the level in the preceding quarter, but was 22.09 per cent short of the quarterly target of N7.19 trillion. The rise in expenditure relative to the preceding quarter was associated with the increase in interest payments and personnel costs, which rose by 6.98 and 23.31 per cent, respectively.

Further analysis of total expenditure showed that recurrent (75.13 percent) accounted for the largest share outlay, with the remainder split between capital (17.1 percent) and transfer payments (7.77 percent).

On revenue, CBN said: FGN retained revenue rose in the review period, due to higher receipts from the federation account, non-oil excess, and FGN independent revenue. At N2.52 trillion, provisional FGN retained revenue was 10.40 per cent above the level in Q324, but was 48.57 per cent below the benchmark.

The fiscal operations of the FGN resulted in a narrower deficit in Q424. Provisional data showed that primary deficit narrowed by 22.62 per cent, relative to the level in the preceding quarter.

The overall deficit also reduced by 3.61 per cent to N3.08 trillion during the review quarter, reflecting the improved balance that resulted from a more than proportionate increase in revenue over expenditure.

President Bola Tinubu departed for Paris, France, yesterday on a short working visit.

This was contained in a statement issued by the presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga in Abuja.

The statement said during the visit, the President will appraise his administration’s mid-term performance and assess key milestones.

It said: “He will also use the retreat to review the progress of ongoing reforms and engage in strategic planning ahead of his administration’s second anniversary.

“This period of reflection will inform plans to deepen ongoing reforms and accelerate national development priorities in the coming year.

“Recent economic strides reinforce the President’s commitment to these efforts, as evidenced by the Central Bank of Nigeria reporting a significant increase in net foreign exchange reserves to $23.11 billion testament to the administration’s fiscal reforms since 2023 when net reserves were $3.99 billion”

It further said: “While away, President Tinubu will remain fully engaged with his team and continue to oversee governance activities. He will return to Nigeria in about a fortnight.”

President Bola Tinubu, in a sweeping reconstitution of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company, NNPC, Limited board, has sacked the Group Chief Executive Officer, GCEO, Mallam Mele Kolo Kyari, and the board chairman, Chief Pius Akinyelure.

President Tinubu also removed all other board members appointed with Akinyelure and Kyari in November 2023.

This was made public via a statement issued in the early hours of yesterday by the presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.

According to the statement, the new 11-man board has Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari as the Group CEO and Ahmadu Musa Kida as non-executive chairman.

The statement further stated that Adedapo Segun, who replaced Umaru Isa Ajiya as the chief financial officer last November, has been appointed to the new board by President Tinubu.

Six board members, non-executive directors, represent the country’s geopolitical zones. They are Bello Rabiu, North West; Yusuf Usman, North East; and Babs Omotowa, a former managing director of the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), who represents North Central.

President Tinubu appointed Austin Avuru as a non-executive director from the South-South, David Ige as a non-executive director from the South-West, and Henry Obih as a non-executive director from the South-East.

Mrs Lydia Shehu Jafiya, permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance, will represent the ministry on the new board, while Aminu Said Ahmed will represent the Ministry of Petroleum Resources.

Continuing, the statement said, All the appointments are effective today, April 2.

President Tinubu, invoking the powers granted under Section 59, subsection 2 of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, emphasized that the board restructuring is crucial for enhancing operational efficiency, restoring investor confidence, boosting local content, driving economic growth, and advancing gas commercialization and diversification.

President Tinubu also handed out an immediate action plan to the new board: to conduct a strategic portfolio review of NNPC-operated and joint venture assets to ensure alignment with value maximization objectives.

Since 2023, the Tinubu administration has implemented oil sector reforms to attract investment. Last year, NNPC reported $17 billion in new investments within the sector. The administration now envisions increasing the investment to $30 billion by 2027 and $60 billion by 2030.

The Tinubu administration targets raising oil production to two million barrels daily by 2027 and three million daily by 2030. Concurrently, the government wants gas production jacked to 8 billion cubic feet daily by 2027 and 10 billion cubic feet by 2030.

Furthermore, President Tinubu expects the new board to elevate NNPCs share of crude oil refining output to 200,000 barrels by 2027 and reach 500,000 by 2030.

The new board chairman, Ahmadu Musa Kida, is from Borno State. He is an alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he received a degree in civil engineering in 1984. He also obtained a postgraduate diploma in petroleum engineering from the Institut Francaise du Petrol (IFP) in Paris.

He started his career in the oil industry at Elf Petroleum Nigeria and later joined Total Exploration and Production as a trainee engineer in 1985.

Musa became Total Nigeria’s Deputy Managing Director of Deep Water Services in 2015. Last year, he became an Independent Non-Executive Director at Pan Ocean-Newcross Group.

Apart from his oil industry career, Ahmadu Musa Kida is a former basketballer and the president of the Nigerian Basketball Federation (NBBF) board.

Ojulari, the new NNPC Limited Group CEO, hails from Kwara State. Until his new appointment, he was Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Renaissance Africa Energy Company. His renaissance recently led a consortium of indigenous energy firms in the landmark acquisition of the entire equity holding in the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC), worth $2.4 billion.

Like Kida, Ojulari is also an alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering. He worked for Elf Aquitaine as the first Nigerian process engineer to begin a stellar career in the oil sector. From Elf, he joined Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd in 1991 as an associate production technologist.

Apart from working in Nigeria, he worked in Europe and the Middle East in different capacities as a petroleum process and production engineer, strategic planner, field developer, and asset manager. In 2015, he became the managing director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCO).

During his career, he was Chairman and a member of the board of trustees of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE Nigerian Council) and a fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers.

President Tinubu thanked the old board members for their dedicated service to NNPC Limited, particularly their efforts in rehabilitating the old Port Harcourt and Warri refineries, which enabled them to resume petroleum product production after prolonged shutdowns. He wished them well in their future endeavours.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, has dismissed allegations that her recent visit to her hometown was a political gathering.

She clarified that her trip on Monday, April 1, 2025, was purely to celebrate Sallah with her constituents and had no political undertones.

Her response followed claims that she paid attendees to be present at the event, an assertion she described as baseless and misleading.

“This was a celebration of unity and shared love, not politics, Akpoti-Uduaghan stated.

“The people who welcomed me did so of their own free will, and I deeply appreciate their sacrifice.

“Despite a government-imposed restriction on vehicular movement, thousands of supporters trekked long distances through bush paths to receive her with a heroic welcome”

The senator, who arrived via chopper, was met with overwhelming cheers, reflecting the deep-rooted affection her people have for her. Some supporters were even attacked on their way but remained resolute in their desire to celebrate with her.

Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized that the crowd consisted of residents from the five local government areas that make up Kogi Central, representing less than three percent of her overall supporters. She noted that the turnout was a testament to her enduring influence in the region.

Beyond the celebration, the senator’s visit also highlighted her contributions to the district’s development. The very road where the people gathered to welcome her was one she had facilitated and constructed years before becoming a senator. Her tenure has been marked by a strong commitment to infrastructure, empowerment programs, and social welfare initiatives that have transformed many lives.

Expressing gratitude for the massive show of support, Akpoti-Uduaghan reassured her constituents of her dedication to their welfare.

“Your presence here today, despite the challenges, humbles me”, she said.

“It only strengthens my resolve to continue working tirelessly for the progress of our land.”

The grand reception further reaffirmed her popularity in Kogi Central, countering the narratives pushed by political detractors.

Promoters and operators of entities engaged in a prohibited scheme are liable to a penalty of not less than ₦20 million or imprisonment for a term of 10 years or both.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Capital Market, Senator Osita Izunaso, issued the warning on Wednesday.

Briefing journalists in Abuja, the lawmaker cautioned that the era of fraudulent investment schemes and market manipulation is over, as the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) will now properly regulate cryptocurrency trading.

He said that the new law assented to by President Tinubu has introduced regulatory measures aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s financial system, particularly in the cryptocurrency capital market sectors and State government funding.

“Before now, people engaged in Ponzi schemes without consequences, but the new law is designed to protect investors money. If caught, apart from paying a fine, you will go to jail. Initially, we proposed a 20-year sentence, but 10 years has been approved”, he stated.

Izunaso also explained that the new law now encourages sub national to access long-term funding through the capital market. He urged states to approach the SEC for infrastructure financing, noting that regulatory reforms have made the process more flexible.

“Every state can now approach the capital market for funding without unnecessary bottlenecks. This will drive infrastructural development across the country”, he stated.

He also addressed concerns about digital assets and cybercrime, assuring Nigerians that the new securities law will comprehensively address issues related to cryptocurrency and other digital financial instruments.

Human rights activist and legal practitioner, Christopher Chidera, has accused the Kenyan government of failing in its international obligation to protect the Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, when he was abducted in June 2021 and illegally renditioned to Nigeria.

Chidera alleged that Kenya was complicit in Kanu’s abduction, torture, and unlawful transfer, violating both domestic and international laws.

In a statement, he demanded that Kenya be held accountable for its role in the ordeal of the separatist leader.

According to Chidera, Kenya disregarded its own Constitution and legal framework, including: The Kenyan Constitution (2010)  Article 29, which prohibits arbitrary detention and torture. The Kenyan Extradition Act (1968), which mandates a formal legal process for extradition. International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and other treaties requiring due process in deportation and extradition.

Kanu, a dual citizen of the United Kingdom and Nigeria, was reportedly abducted on June 19, 2021, at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi, while picking up a friend. He was allegedly seized by armed operatives believed to be Kenyan and Nigerian security officials, without an enforceable warrant or judicial order.

Chidera detailed that Kanu was detained incommunicado for eight days in a secret location near the airport, where he was: Chained to the floor, beaten and subjected to degrading treatment, denied access to sanitation facilities and his medications, and tortured to the point of unconsciousness

Despite Kenya’s official denials of involvement, Chidera argued that the circumstances surrounding Kanus transfer to Nigeria on June 27, 2021, were in clear violation of Kenyan laws: No extradition request from Nigeria was processed. And No judicial proceedings took place before his handover.

The Doctrine of Specialty, which limits prosecution to offenses specified in an extradition request, was ignored.

Kenya’s failure to follow legal procedures, he said, suggests an extrajudicial operation orchestrated at the highest levels.

Beyond violating its own laws, Kenya allegedly breached multiple international treaties, including:

ICCPR (Article 13), which protects against arbitrary expulsion of legally present foreigners.

The 1984 UN Convention Against Torture, which prohibits handing individuals over to countries where they may face torture.

Chidera noted that Kanu had previously suffered ill-treatment in Nigerian detention between 2015 and 2017, making his transfer to Nigeria a clear breach of Kenya’s international obligations.

The activist concluded that Kenya’s actionsor inactionenabled a grave violation of human rights, whether through direct involvement or tacit approval by rogue officials.

This incident not only jeopardized Kanu’s rights but also damaged Kenya’s reputation as a rule-of-law state within the Commonwealth and the global community, he stated.

Chidera called on human rights bodies, legal institutions, and international organizations to investigate the case and hold Kenya accountable for its failure to protect an alien on its soil.

Kanyeyachukwu Okeke received Guinness World Record for largest art canvas in the world by an individual on Wednesday in Abuja.

Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, a 15-year-old Nigerian artist, has broken the Guinness World Record (GWR) for the Largest Painting, unveiling the worlds largest art canvas by an individual.

The record-breaking artwork, titled Impossibility is a Myth, was revealed in Abuja to mark the 2025 World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD).

The awe-inspiring canvas, measuring 12,303 square meters, more than twice the size of a football field, surpassed the previous record by nearly 3,000 square meters.

The unveiling at Eagles Square was attended by civil society groups, diplomats, traditional rulers, top government officials, and stakeholders in the arts and culture sector.

Tagbo-Okeke was presented with his GWR certificate during the event.

HannatuMusawa, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, lauded the young artists achievement, calling it a historic and inspiring milestone that demonstrated how age and challenges were no barrier to greatness.

She emphasised that every Nigerian, regardless of background or disability, had the potential to make valuable contributions.

Kanyeyachukwu’s father, Mr Tagbo Okeke, shared that his sons journey started with his love for colour and a carefully structured routine to help him focus.

He noted that the theme of the artwork, Impossibility is a Myth, reflected the challenges they faced in creating such a large-scale painting.

The UN Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Dr Mohamed Fall, represented by CristianMunduate of UNICEF, highlighted the importance of disability inclusion in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring equal access to opportunities for people with disabilities.

Sen. Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, lauded the achievement, emphasising that children with autism could be productive and should be provided with specialised education and care.

He encouraged the government to invest more in the education of autistic children.

Chikaodi Ofoegbu, Head of Retail at MTN Nigeria, also spoke at the event, stressing the importance of creating an environment where innovation and inclusivity thrived, urging all Nigerians to nurture these values.

By Abah Sunday, Abuja

Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives yesterday joined other well-meaning Nigerians in condemning gruesome murder of 16 travelling northern hunters in Edo state, South-South Nigeria.

This was contained in an emotion laden press  statement signed by the leader of the Caucus, Hon Kingsley  Chinda,  Minority Whip, Hon. Ali Isa, Deputy minority leader, Hon. Aliyu Madaki among others which was made available to journalists in Abuja yesterday.

The statement noted, “It is with extreme shock and grief that we received the news of the barbaric murder of about 16  Nigerians, mainly northerners, by a gang of lawless anarchists in Edo State in the last couple of days, adding that they find such brutal killing of innocent Nigerians in any part of the country by lawless mobs very reprehensible.

They cautioned that and if allowed to fester without being put in check by responsible organs of the federal government, such actions pose grave threats the peace and unity of the country.

The Caucus therefore called on Nigerians never to resort to such jungle attacks on their fellow citizens but to always implore the services of lawful authorities whenever they notice any issue of concern.

“We are a nation under the rule of laws, and our law enforcement agencies are always available to partner with every Nigerian to assuage their concerns”.

Opposition lawmakers in the House, therefore  called on President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to direct the security agencies to investigate the matter and bring those involved in the killings to book in order to prevent its recurrence.

The Caucus urged all Nigerians to remain calm, peaceful, and law abiding and allow the federal and state governments to get to the root of the matter in the interest of justice.

They further expressed sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims even as they also assure them that the Minority Caucus in the green chamber would remain eternally vigilant until justice is done on the matter.

With the Federal Government setting a production target of 2.06 million barrels per day in 2025,
the Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri yesterday, threatened to withdraw oil blocks from owners that have failed to develop them.

Sen. Lokpobiri said the government will begin implementing the “drill or drop” provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in line with the drive to boost oil production.

As of February, 2025, oil production was reported at 1.67 million barrels per day by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, NUPRC.

A statement by the Media Aide to the Minister, Nneamaka Okafor said Senator Lokpobiri stated this at a Cross Industry Group meeting held in Florence, Italy, organized by IOCs operating in Nigeria.

The meeting focused on challenges, expectations, and strategies to enhance the sector’s contributions to domestic energy needs and regional expansion across Sub-Saharan Africa.

According to the Minister, “We cannot continue to have assets sitting idle for 20 to 30 years without development. If you are not utilizing an asset and it remains underdeveloped for decades, it neither adds value to your books nor to us as a country.

“We encourage industry players to explore collaborative measures such as shared resources for contiguous assets, farm-outs, and the release of underutilized assets to operators ready to invest in production. Otherwise, like any responsible government, we will take back these assets and allocate them to those willing to go to work”.

The Minister also urged operators to consider farm-out agreements where assets are close to existing infrastructure, rather than incurring high costs on new Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units.

Lokpobiri urged International Oil Companies, IOCs, in Nigeria to ramp up investment in the oil and gas industry, noting that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has provided every necessary incentive to ensure seamless and profitable operations.

Nigerians to pay more for petrol amid domestic dispute, crude price hike.

Sen. Lokpobiri explained that while IOCs have pointed to Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractors as a challenge, EPCs will only commit when they see strong investment decisions from industry players.

He said: “The Government has done its part by providing the requisite and investment-friendly fiscal policies, including the President’s Executive Order incentivizing deepwater investments. Now, the ball is in the court of the IOCs and other operators to make strategic investment decisions that will drive increased production and sustainability in the sector”.

He emphasized the need for IOCs to support local refining efforts, noting that more refineries are coming on stream and will require a steady supply of crude oil.

To make this easy and possible, he stressed that ramping up production will enable Nigeria to meet both local and international obligations.

The Chairman of the Oil Producers Trade Section, OPTS, Mr. Osagie Osunbor, commended the Minister for his direct engagement with industry players and for the Federal Government’s continued efforts in advancing the sector.

“We appreciate the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for investment. The Minister’s engagement has provided critical insights and has also challenged us as industry players to step up efforts to increase production,” he stated.