The Presidential candidate of the main opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), in the 2023 election, Atiku Abubakar has recommended his campaign policy document to President Bola Tinubu as a way of getting Nigeria out of the perennial blackouts. He said: “I still believe that my solution, as encapsulated in my Policy Document, ‘My Covenant with Nigerians’, remains the most proactive plan to lead our country out of perennial darkness. In a statement today, October 26, Atiku noted that electricity power crisis in Nigeria has continued to be a matter of immense concern, saying that the situation is worst in both the Southeast and the entire states of the Northwest and Northeast that have been in complete blackouts in the past three weeks. He stressed the urgent need to remove the entire electricity value chain from the exclusive list and grant states the power to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity for themselves. “I firmly believe that an industrial dispute with the Federal Government in the nation’s capital should not affect industrial activities in any of the states or cities of the country. “Even as we focus on investments in additional generation, there’s a compelling need for capacity for the complementary transmission and distribution infrastructure to transport the supplementary energy produced. “Considering that energy opportunities exist in different parts of the country, our strategy should be a viable mix of renewable (hydro, solar, wind and biofuels) and non-renewable (coal, gas).” He restated his earlier recommendation to encourage private investors to invest in developing multiple green-field mini-grid transmission systems to be looped into the super-grid in the medium to long term.
The Confederation of Africa Football (CAF), has delivered a verdict, ordering a fine of USD 50,000 on Libya for maltreating Nigeria’s Super Eagles a fortnight ago. The African football ruling body also declared lost by forfeit by Libya (by a score of 3-0) in the aborted game on October 15, 2024. The CAF took the following decision concerning the aborted match between Libya and Nigeria’s SuperEagles:
The Libya Football Federation is found to have breached Article 31 of the African Cup of Nations Regulations as well as Articles 82 and 151 of the CAF Disciplinary Code.
The match No.87 Libya v. Nigeria of the CAF African Cup of Nations Qualifiers 2025 (scheduled to be played on 15 October 2024 in Benghazi) is declared lost by forfeit by Libya (by a score of 3-0). 3 The Libya Football Federation is ordered to pay a fine of USD 50,000.
The fine is to be paid within 60 days of notification of the present decision.
All other and further motions or prayers for relief are dismissed.
The Presidency has expressed surprise and displeasure at The Guardian newspaper for allegedly supporting a call for a military coup against the government of President Bola Tinubu. The presidency referred particularly to the newspaper’s lead story of Friday, October 25, 2024 with the title: “Calls for military intervention: misery, harsh policies driving Nigerians to desperate choices,” describing it as “openly incites unrest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration and advocates regime change under the guise of journalism.” In a statement today, October 26, the presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga said that the inflammatory headline and content deviated from responsible reporting. Parts of the statement go thus: The Guardian’s agenda is unmistakable from the cover illustration to the article. In attempting to create a balanced veneer, the author condemns military rule while fanning the flames of military intervention. This is evident in the introduction to the article where the newspaper wrote: “Nigerians were exhilarated with the return of democracy in 1999, but 25 years on, the buccaneering nature of politicians, their penchant for poor service delivery, morbid hatred for probity, accountability, and credible/transparent elections, among others, are forcing some flustered citizens to make extreme choices, including calling for military intervention in governance. .. Deep despondency permeates every facet of the polity consequent upon soaring cost of living. And while the political elite splurge on fine wines and exotic automobiles amid poor service delivery, calls for regime change could become more strident in the days ahead even though military insurrection holds no solution to the country’s woes.” We must question how The Guardian can present an argument for military intervention while superficially denouncing it unless it harbours a deliberate agenda. This latest editorial reflects a troubling trend in which the publication has persistently propagated inflammatory and negative narratives, stepping dangerously close to undermining the very fabric of responsible journalism. Moreover, the lead story relies heavily upon emotive language and imagery—such as an illustration of military armoured tank—to bolster its argument while neglecting to present a balanced view. It indulges in lampooning the current administration while ignoring positive developments in Nigeria’s economic landscape. The report lacks empirical data and fails to exhibit the journalistic rigour that the situation demands. It appears lost on The Guardian that such narratives could embolden anarchists intent on disrupting our democratic process. Military rule is an anachronism in modern civilisations, irrespective of its framing, due to the oppressive nature typically associated with its practice. Guided by its experience in 1984, when two of its journalists were jailed by the military regime for reporting the truth, The Guardian acknowledges that military rule is terrible. Yet, it attempts to provoke public ire against President Tinubu by suggesting he governs with less regard for citizens than military dictators once did. This narrative neglects the hard-fought battle that birthed our democracy and serves only to undermine the hard-won freedoms that Nigerians now enjoy. Good journalism is characterised by restraint and a commitment to national interest. Media outlets must propagate responsible reporting that contributes to an informed citizenry. During times of political and economic crises, the media, as a force for good, should rally the public around their leaders, fostering unity and patience as reforms are introduced. President Tinubu has consistently called for understanding and patience amid our nation’s challenges. This plea is not a sign of weakness but an affirmation of his dedication to a brighter future for Nigeria. Moreover, recent policy changes have initiated a turnaround, yielding positive economic indicators. According to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, the revenue-to-debt service ratio has notably declined from 97% in 2023 to 68% in 2024. Nigeria’s foreign reserves rose to $39.1 billion on October 22, with GDP growth achieving 2.98% in Q1 2024—an increase from 2.31% in Q1 2023. This growth was driven by sectors beyond oil, including the financial services sector, mining, and quarrying, marking a significant shift in our economic structure. We are now exporting more than we are importing, with trade surpluses recorded in two consecutive quarters. In the light of the positive developments, it is unacceptable for any publication, including The Guardian, to incite calls for military intervention based on transient difficulties. A more cautious and responsible approach would have better served its readers and the nation. Journalism—like our democracy—thrives on fairness and objectivity, and all media outlets must uphold these standards. We encourage The Guardian and similar platforms to prioritise balanced reporting that fosters dialogue and understanding rather than division and unrest. At this time, we need our people and the media to rally around the government as the Tinubu-led administration steers our country through this challenging period to a better future.
“Part of our predicament; part of our major headache is the procurement law. The procurement law, yes, it’s to protect and make sure our money is safe. “But then, if you look at the overall situation, it drags us backward.” These were the bitter complains made public by the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyeson Wike when Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President, represented by the Chairman, Senate Committee on FCT, Senator Ibrahim Bomai, flagged off the full scope development of Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) from the Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III in Abuja. Wike called for amendment of the procurement law to remove the bureaucratic bottlenecks that are slowing down the execution of projects in the nation’s capital. He regretted that in most cases, it takes almost four months before the procurement is approved, “before it goes to the Federal Executive Council and before you know it, six months is over. Six months of procurement alone is half of the year.” Still on the procurement challenges which he faced as the then Governor of Rivers State, Wike said that he was compelled to move for the amendment of the procurement law in the State. According to him, such amendment helped to quicken the pace in infrastructure development and eliminate the problem of contract variations. “We amended the law to say that in every job we have done with Julius Berger then, we will pay 70 percent. That’s how we were able to do 12 flyovers in four years.” Wike said that the series of infrastructure projects that commenced in the FCT in the course of the week will not only reduce travel time but also have the ripple effect of reducing the cost of food items, in addition to creating employment for residents. The Minister disclosed plans to commence the provision of infrastructure projects in Kwali, Kuje, Gwagwalada and Bwari Area Councils by next week. “By the time Tinubu finishes his first tenure, Abuja people will say yes, we have no choice but to continue to follow you because you have brought back our hope.” This was as the Senate President stressed the importance of a good road network to the socio-economic development of the country, saying that the construction of the Arterial Road N5 will not only improve the traffic situation in the area but also boost socio-economic activities in Abuja. Senator Akpabio commended the ingenuity of the FCT Minister in improving the revenue base of the FCT and ensuring the provision of vital infrastructure in the nation’s capital. “The commissioning of the road will definitely reduce traffic and also shorten the driving time and also boost socioeconomic activities in the city. On behalf of the entire Senate, I once again commend the Hon. Minister, Minister of State and all the staff of the FCT for this milestone in the development of the FCT.” He reiterated the commitment of the Senate to providing the necessary support to the FCT Administration to deliver its statutory function. The Executive Secretary FCDA, Engineer Shehu Hadi Ahmad, in his welcome address, said that the Arterial Road N5 will cover a distance of about 4.4 kilometers with two carriageways of six lanes. He said that the road will provide the much needed relief to the Old Keffi Road which connects the Lifecamp Junction up to Dei Dei in Abuja, adding that the project will also open up economic activities in the Districts of Kado, Karmo, Gwarimpa I, Dape, Ido Gwari, as well as Saburi and Dei-Dei. Engineer Hadi said that procurement is ongoing to rehabilitate the Old Keffi Road which will serve as a relief while the arterial road N5 project is ongoing.
The Executive Chairman of the Nigerian Capital Development Fund, (NCDF) Group, Hareter Babatunde Oralusi is sure that the establishment of the new Federal Ministry of Regional Development and Regional Development Commissions by President Bola Tinubu will help accelerate the local government autonomy. “This bold step reinforces the administration’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development at the grassroots level, marking a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. “This is another remarkable step in the right direction, and one that promises lasting, impactful change. The establishment of regional development commissions complements the critical Local Government Autonomy framework, creating a comprehensive structure that enables local, state, and federal governments to collaboratively support grassroots development.” A statement by the Executive Director of the NCDF, Mr. Tajudeen Kareem quoted Oralusi as saying that the creation of these regional development bodies is essential to bridge long-standing gaps in infrastructure and social services across the country. “This decision to decentralize development functions reflects a forward-thinking approach to governance, empowering local communities while ensuring the equitable distribution of resources.” He said that when local governments are empowered by enabling law and supporting structures, they will gradually become the drivers of grassroots development and catalysts for poverty eradication. “Nigeria is on a promising path toward deeper federalism that involves every level of government in delivering sustainable development.” Oralusi said that the emerging national structure will drive more resources to the sub-national level, enhance social services and critical infrastructure improvements across Nigeria’s communities. He described the decision of President Tinubu as “a pro-poor initiative that demonstrates the government’s prioritization of poverty alleviation, inclusive economic growth, and the overall wellbeing of its people. This setup will also encourage robust private sector participation and empower non-governmental organizations to invest in projects that truly benefit the masses.” Oralusi also expressed optimism in Nigeria’s future, calling on Nigerians to be hopeful and that the Senate needs to expedite action on the passage of comprehensive local government autonomy legislation. “A truly autonomous local government system is the bedrock of grassroots democracy. By advancing this bill, the Senate can solidify a governance framework that ensures every Nigerian feels the impact of national progress.” He pledged NCDF readiness to work with all tiers of government to drive impactful development to the grassroots. “We are ready to collaborate with these new commissions, investing in initiatives that uplift Nigeria’s under-served regions.”
Former Niger Delta militant leader, Alhaji Mujahideen Asari Dokubo, has regretted teaming up with Yoruba from the Southwest and voting massively for President Bola Tinubu in the 2023 election, describing them as Betrayers of the Ijaws and Niger Deltans. In a video that is trending in social media, Dokubo apologized to the former Governor of Rivers State, Melford Okilo, and other leaders in the region for questioning their decision to work with the North. He said that the Ijaws and Niger Deltans will no longer work with the Yorubas, even as he said that the people of the Niger Delta would henceforth work with the northerners by forming an alliance with them. “I apologize to our fathers Melford Okilo and Prieye that they were not wrong for forming an alliance with the North, and as young men, we will now start same alliance with the North now. “As from today, I will work! Work! to form alliance with the North and crush any other opposition, because for those who hate us, we do not mean anything to them. Whatever Ijaw people do does not mean anything to them. “All over Ijaw land, we will spread the message that it is only northerners who can work with Ijaw people !…. We cannot work with Yoruba people they are betrayers !!!….. We risked our lives, voted and did everything and this is what we get ?”
Nigeria health workers under the canopy of Joint Health Sector Unions and Assembly of Health Care Professionals (JOHESU) have declared a 7-day warning strike, beginning from midnight today. The workers had earlier given the federal government a 15-day notice of industrial action, against the backdrop of their demands, which have been pending for some time. JOHESU’s national chairman, Kabiru Minjibir, who spoke to newsmen in Abuja, the nation’s capital, listed the union’s key demands, which include the immediate implementation of the consolidated health salary structure, payment of a 25 percent review of arrears from June to December 2023. The health workers also demanded the upward review of retirement age, tax waiver on healthcare workers’ allowances, and the immediate payment of COVID-19 inducement hazard allowance. The union directed all its members across the country to comply with the strike directive immediately.
The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has planned to support new research and development projects as part of its Technology Innovation and Incubation Strategy and the enduring commitment to catalyze innovation in the Nigerian oil and gas industry and linkage sectors. The new projects will add to the 14 applied research projects NCDMB is currently sponsoring at various stages of technological readiness, one of which is the Amal Technology, which manufactures gas leak detection devices and printed circuit board in Abuja. The Executive Secretary of the NCDMB, Engineer Felix Omatsola Ogbe, made this known in the keynote address at the 2024 edition of the Triple Helix Nigeria SciBiz Conference in Abuja. It was attended by industry representatives, researchers from knowledge institutions and policymakers, with theme: “Integrating Research, Innovation, and Policy: Triple Helix Pathway to Research Commercialisation.” He described research and innovation as the lifewire of Nigeria’s hydrocarbon industry He said that NCDMB has consistently applied local content development to enhance research and commercialisation of innovative solutions for the country’s oil and gas sector. “It hopes to accelerate the circle of innovation and wealth creation by fostering partnerships between universities, research institutions, and industry players.” Represented by the General Manager Research and Statistics, Silas Ajimajaye, the Executive Secretary charged Nigerians to embrace the spirit of innovation and work together to build a future where research and development are at the forefront of the national agenda. “Creating an ecosystem where research, innovation and policy can interact has never been more critical as we steer through the complexities of the 21st Century. “The Triple Helix Model of academia, industry, and government collaboration is an appropriate international business framework that adds to our strength of innovation and ensures that all efforts go into fuelling the grand old aim – National Development. “The $50 million Nigerian Content Research and Development Fund was created by the Board in 2020 from the Nigerian Content Development Fund (NCDF), and was designed to provide much-needed research funds in the oil and gas R&D space.” The President, Triple Helix Nigeria, Alhaji Abdulmalik Halilu, in his presentation, said that the THN, whose membership has grown from an initial 12 founding members to 240, realises the fact that research and innovation have fuelled human and societal development and that the body seeks to catalyse enterprises so oriented. According to him, THN is committed to foster value creation in the Nigerian economy in line with local content philosophy of looking inwards, promote the development of technology skillsets required to solve African problems by Africans, promote strong advocacy platform for building research capabilities in knowledge institutions, and foster structured partnerships between industry and research community, to attract research-based funding in the direction of Africa-based researchers. On the organisation’s vision, Halilu who is Director, Monitoring and Evaluation at the NCDMB, said: “Triple Helix Nigeria seeks to inspire at least 10 knowledge institutions to accelerate innovation and have at least 10% equity in 10 listed companies in the next 10 years.” Halilu canvassed that the role of universities in this era is no longer confined to the education of minds or the advancement of theoretical knowledge, instead, they must play a central role in the commercialization of research, turning knowledge into tangible products that drive economic growth. “The transition from education through research to commercialization heralded an evolving frontier where academia, industry, and government collaborate under the Triple Helix model to ensure research transcends the boundaries of laboratories and classrooms, to solving real-world problems and fostering economic prosperity.” Earlier in a welcome address, the Chairman of the Planning Committee of the Conference, Professor Eucharia Oluchi Nwaichi, said that her members were so joyous to witness 156 authors submitting 47 high-quality papers on various subjects that directly contribute to the theme of this Conference – “Integrating Research, Innovation, and Policy: Triple Helix Pathway to Research Commercialisation.” She expressed her confidence that together, “we can build a robust ecosystem where research meets industry, innovation drives policy, and Nigeria rises as a global leader in science, technology, and innovation.” The 2024 Triple Helix Nigeria SciBiz Conference 2024, held from October 23 to 25.
A helicopter, a Sikorsky SK76 with registration 5NBQG and operated by East Wind Aviation, crashed today, October 24, along the waterways in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, killing three out of the eight occupants. Information reaching us at Greenbarge Reporters online newspaper said that the accident occurred at about 11.22am. The helicopter was en route from Port Harcourt Military Base (DNPM) to the Nuimantan oil rig. According to spokesperson for the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Odutayo Oluseyi, a total of eight persons were on board. The aircraft was said to have ditched into the waters near Bonny Finima in the Atlantic Ocean. The authorities said that rescue efforts have been activated. Meanwhile, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has owned up to hiring of the helicopter. In a statement shared with the media, the company said: “On the 24th of October 2024, about 11:22am, we lost contact with the Helicopter – Register Number: 5NBQG, engaged by NNPC Limited, that took off from Port Harcourt NAF Base en route the FPSO. “The helicopter was operated by East Winds Aviation.” The NNPCL confirmed that there were eight persons on board (6 passengers and 2 crew members). It said that appropriate authorities, including the Ministry of Aviation, which had since issued a press statement, have embarked on search and rescue missions. NNPCL confirmed that so far, three bodies have been recovered. “We shall continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates as the events unfold. “Our prayers are with the passengers, crew and their respective families at this very difficult time. “We will continue to do everything possible to support the ongoing search and rescue operation.”
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo has called for collaboration between the state and the federal government towards accelerating investment in the exploration of oil resources in the state. Governor Ododo, who visited the minister of state for petroleum resources (oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri in Abuja, stressed his commitment to providing enabling environment for investors and their investments. Governor Ododo expressed willingness of the Kogi State government to cooperate with the federal government to ensure that oil exploration in the state comes on stream in line with the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to pursue oil exploration in the frontier basins in Nigeria. This was even as the minister of state for petroleum resources (oil) Senator Heineken Lokpobiri reaffirmed the status of Kogi as an oil producing state and pledged the commitment of the federal government towards mobilizing investments to explore the huge oil deposits in Kogi State. The minister said that the Petroleum Industry Act mandates the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to explore frontier basins and pledged the federal government’s determination to deploy funds to unlock new discoveries and exploration of oil in Nigeria. The minister commended Governor Ododo for his giant strides in providing good governance to the people of the state. Kogi State became the first oil producing state in Northern Nigeria following the affirmation of the discovery of oil in commercial quantities by the federal government in 2022.
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The Executive Chairman of the Nigerian Capital Development Fund, (NCDF) Group, Hareter Babatunde Oralusi is sure that the establishment of the new Federal Ministry of Regional Development and Regional Development Commissions by President Bola Tinubu will help accelerate the local government autonomy.
