The Federal Government has scheduled July 23 and 24, 2025, for a national stakeholder forum aimed at tackling rising concerns surrounding petrol pricing and supply issues in the downstream sector, as independent marketers intensify their push for regulated pricing.
The summit, being organised by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), will convene industry stakeholders including operators, marketers, refiners, and government representatives to discuss pricing standards, the adequacy of feedstock, and approaches to stabilise the deregulated petroleum market.
Francis Ogaree, the Executive Director of Hydrocarbon Processing Plants, Installation, and Transportation Infrastructure at the NMDPRA, confirmed the summit dates during the recently concluded 24th Nigeria Oil and Gas Energy Week held in Abuja.
Ogaree emphasised the importance of stakeholder engagement to develop a robust and sustainable pricing structure in the aftermath of fuel subsidy removal. This comes amid widespread discontent among marketers regarding sudden price shifts in Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), or petrol, reportedly occurring without prior notice from the Dangote refinery.
Billy Gillis-Harry, President of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria, has consistently underscored the need for a stable energy market and long-term energy security, urging for systems that monitor and manage price volatility to safeguard the industry.
Gillis-Harry has also advocated for pricing transparency, especially with regard to the implications of Dangote’s price cuts on retailers who had purchased fuel at previously higher rates. He further called for equitable pricing and a crackdown on exploitative practices within the sector.
Similarly, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) last month challenged the existing pricing structure, accusing petroleum marketers of taking advantage of consumers by inflating petrol prices. The union insisted that the pump price for PMS should ideally fall within the N700 to N750 per litre range.
In response to these criticisms, Ogaree stated that the NMDPRA is aware of the operational challenges facing industry stakeholders and has been working to introduce pricing benchmarks while also encouraging greater investment in domestic refining.
Speaking during a panel discussion titled “Building a resilient and competitive refining sector,” he said, “We are engaging stakeholders at our forum, where we address the issues and proffer solutions. I would like to remind you that the NMDPRA has only been in existence for three and a half years. And in that period, we have achieved giant strides in the number of licenses we have given and in addressing the issues.”
He continued, “Even on the issue of petroleum pricing, which is another one that we are facing now and relates to standardization. It is a work in progress, and that is why at the latter part of this month, exactly on July 23 to 24, a two-day event, we will be talking about petrol pricing. Again, that is to allay some fears and put in some standards. The issue of pricing, everyone knows that it is a sensitive one and peculiar from one country to another, and the authority is working.”
Discussing the country’s refining outlook and future fuel supply stability, Ogaree noted that Nigeria now boasts 10 refineries both operational and nearing completion including the three Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) refineries, the 650,000-barrels-per-day Dangote refinery, and six modular refineries.
He added that several of the upcoming refineries would require between 1,000 and 200,000 barrels of crude oil per day and are projected to begin operations by 2026.
“We have about 10 refineries right now. The three Nigerian National Petroleum Company refineries. We have Dangote refinery and six modular refineries. When I look at the combined capacity for those refineries, we need about 1,124,000 barrels per day.”
However, Ogaree cautioned that the success of the downstream sector would depend heavily on the availability of crude feedstock to meet the demands of the increasing number of licensed refiners.
“We know our current production capacity. These are just operating refineries. When I think about new refineries coming up very soon. Some of them need 200,000 barrels to 1,000 barrels, and I compute them together. Some of them would be on onstream by 2026.
“You know that this number of barrels has to grow, and there has to be more production if we are to meet up. The apparent fear, and I must be sincere, is on the feedstock. We have given out 47 licenses, all of which are to do establishments, construction, and they all go into operation. We must be able to meet their demands when they all go on stream.”
FG Sets July 23-24, 2025, For National Forum To Tackle Petrol Pricing And Supply Challenges
Suspected Diphtheria Outbreak Kills Three Children In Zaria
A diphtheria outbreak in Zaria, Kaduna State, has claimed the lives of at least three children and infected six others, raising alarm among residents and prompting a swift response from health authorities.
The outbreak, centered in the Kwarbai and Tukur-Tukur communities, has exposed vulnerabilities in public health infrastructure and underscored the urgent need for improved healthcare access.
According to Dr. Bello Jamoh, Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Primary Healthcare Board, the state has been grappling with diphtheria outbreaks for the past 10 months, with the latest cases reported since October 2024.
“The Kaduna State Ministry of Health is leading the response, with support from partners and stakeholders,” Jamoh said, adding that a team of medical experts would be deployed to curb the spread and provide clinical support.
The highly contagious bacterial infection, caused by “Corynebacterium diphtheriae”, has left families devastated.
Mallam Bashir-Magaji Basharata, a resident of Kwarbai, lost his daughter to the disease, which he described as spreading rapidly across the city.
“My daughter developed a swollen neck, had difficulty breathing, and couldn’t speak. We rushed her to Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH) in Shika, but she passed away,” Basharata recounted.
He noted that three of his other children are showing similar symptoms, and four additional children are admitted at the Kakaki Primary Health Care Clinic.
Community leaders have raised concerns about the lack of adequate medical resources in Kaduna State, with reports suggesting that health teams are stretched thin.
“The situation is alarming,” Basharata said, echoing widespread fears about the state’s preparedness.
The outbreak has reignited discussions about systemic healthcare challenges. In Tukur-Tukur, a previous outbreak in August 2024 killed five children, prompting a joint intervention by the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and local health authorities.
Dr. Bello Yusuf Jamo, who led a health team to the area, attributed the recurrence to inadequate healthcare access and low community awareness.
Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, a community elder and Director of Publicity and Advocacy for the Northern Elders Forum, emphasized the need for robust public health measures.
“The recurrence of diphtheria raises critical questions about our infrastructure and community awareness,” he said.
Suleiman called for increased investment in healthcare facilities, training for health workers, and surveillance systems to monitor disease trends.
Diphtheria, a highly contagious disease, spreads through respiratory droplets and can cause severe symptoms, including sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and respiratory failure.
The WHO has been supporting Nigeria’s response by providing technical guidance, procuring diphtheria antitoxin, and conducting risk assessments. However, global shortages of antitoxin and strained healthcare systems continue to hamper efforts.
The Kaduna State government has assured residents that measures are underway to contain the outbreak, including house-to-house surveys and intensified public health campaigns.
Community leaders in Tukur-Tukur have pledged to enhance monitoring and sensitization to ensure compliance with health initiatives.
Health officials are urging residents to seek immediate medical attention for symptoms and to cooperate with health interventions, emphasizing that collective action is essential to prevent further loss of life.
Texas Floods Update: Death Toll Rises to 104, Dozens Still Missing
As Central Texas battles the aftermath of catastrophic flooding, the death toll has surged to at least 104, with dozens still unaccounted for. Officials warn of a challenging week ahead as hopes of finding more survivors dwindle.
The disaster was triggered by torrential rainfall last Friday, causing the Guadalupe River to swell by nearly 24 feet in under an hour. The river overflowed its banks, sweeping through communities and destroying properties along its path — including Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian summer camp in Kerr County.
Authorities have confirmed that 27 campers and staff from Camp Mystic lost their lives, while 11 others from the camp remain missing. Kerr County, one of the hardest-hit areas, recorded at least 84 of the total deaths.
As rescue operations entered their fifth day on Tuesday, over 1,700 personnel from 20 state agencies were actively engaged in recovery missions. Efforts are being supported by helicopters, drones, and dive teams navigating downed trees and massive debris fields. Despite the extensive manpower, officials admit that the probability of finding survivors is rapidly diminishing.
Kerrville’s mayor urged residents to brace for what he called a “rough week,” as the search progresses through every bend of the river.
Meanwhile, the state’s response has received mixed reactions. A recent controversy erupted over alleged delays in firefighter deployment from Austin to Kerr County. Calls for accountability are growing amid claims that critical support was withheld at a crucial time.
Support has poured in from across the nation. The Houston Astros have pledged $1 million towards relief efforts, while volunteers and donors continue to aid displaced residents through local charities and emergency shelters.
California has also extended a hand of solidarity, with its Urban Search and Rescue teams being deployed to Texas to assist with emergency response.
While rescue teams remain determined to locate the missing, experts have warned that flood victims are rarely found alive after the first few hours. Some bodies may remain unrecovered for weeks or even months, depending on the extent of the water damage and terrain.
Community foundations and local aid groups are actively mobilizing resources, and those willing to help are encouraged to register with the Salvation Army or donate through verified relief channels.
JAMB Unveils Top Scorers for 2025 UTME, Leads with 375
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced the top performers in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) during its Policy Meeting held in Abuja today.
Okeke Chinedu Christian from Anambra State has emerged as the top scorer in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), achieving an outstanding 375 out of 400.
However, his achievement is under investigation by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) due to discrepancies regarding his prior admission to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) for Medicine four years ago, with no record of withdrawal.
JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, announced during the 2025 Policy Meeting in Abuja on Tuesday that the board has sought clarification from UNN and contacted the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria to ensure Okeke is barred from practicing medicine under these circumstances.
Securing second place, Ayuba Simon-Peter John from Gombe State delivered an exceptional performance, scoring 374 out of 400. Ayuba, who has chosen to pursue Mechanical Engineering at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD).
Jimoh Abdulmalik Olayinka from Kwara State secured the third position, scoring 373, with UNILAG as his first-choice institution and Mechanical Engineering as his chosen course of study.
With six others—Roberts Damiete, Ononugbo Chigozirim, Olawepo Gertrude, Afinotan Leslie, Azoyenime Samuel, and Oyebode Oluwapelumi—tied for third place with 373 each.
JAMB reported that 17,025 candidates, representing 0.88% of 1,931,467 participants, scored 300 and above, marking the highest number of top performers since the Computer-Based Test format was introduced in 2013.
The Policy Meeting also exposed 19 CBT centres implicated in fingerprinting malpractices, with Anambra and Imo leading with six and four centres, respectively, followed by Abia, Edo, Kano, Ebonyi, Delta, Kaduna, Rivers, and Enugu.
Oloyede revealed that impersonators exploited albinos for tactics like image bending and remote uploads to bypass biometric verification.
In a related case, the Nigeria Police arraigned Bolanwu Emmanuel and Ibrahim Abdulaziz in Katsina for impersonation during the UTME on April 30 at Zee Alpha International School, Funtua. Both pleaded not guilty, and the case was adjourned to July 18.
Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa announced that the minimum age for admission into tertiary institutions is now 16 years, aligning with efforts to standardize the admission process.
JAMB intensifies its crackdown on malpractices, candidates are urged to verify their results on the official portal and prepare for post-UTME screenings.
BRICS 2025 Summit: Outcome Of Talks Amid Trump’s Threats
The annual BRICS summit which brought together founding nations Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, along with newer members like Indonesia, Ethiopia, and Iran is intended to showcase a united front of the Global South as an alternative to Western dominance.
Formed in 2009, BRICS was established as a platform for emerging and developing economies to collaborate on vital global issues such as trade, diplomacy, and security. This year’s summit, described by Brazil’s President as the most significant to date, was expected to reflect a strong show of unity.
However, tensions rose following remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump, who issued stern warnings about potential economic retaliation should BRICS members move away from the dollar in international trade.
“Any Country aligning themselves with the Anti-American policies of BRICS, will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10% Tariff. There will be no exceptions to this policy,” Trump posted on Truth Social, though he did not specify which policies he was referring to.
His statement triggered immediate backlash from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who hosted the summit and denounced the comments as irresponsible.
”We don’t want an emperor, we are sovereign countries,” Lula said in his closing speech on Monday. “It’s not right for a president of a country the size of the United States to threaten the world online.”
BRICS 2025 SUMMIT
Held at the Museum of Contemporary Art overlooking Guanabara Bay in Rio de Janeiro, the BRICS 2025 Summit served as both a strategic lead-up to the upcoming Belém COP30 UN Climate Conference in November and a pointed critique of wealthier nations that have turned inward, prioritized militarization, and reduced support to vulnerable regions.
On Saturday, July 6, the leaders of the 11 largest emerging economies officially endorsed the Joint Declaration of the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro. Titled “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance,” the declaration affirms BRICS’ dedication to upholding multilateralism, reinforcing international law, and pushing for a fairer global system.
This milestone followed months of robust collaboration, including over 200 meetings and the establishment or enhancement of 200 cooperation mechanisms focused on critical areas like hunger eradication, climate action, and the advancement of new technologies.
What Was Discussed At BRICS Summit
The summit emphasized giving greater global influence to developing nations particularly in Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Leaders called for inclusive governance and a more balanced representation in global decision-making forums, including the United Nations.
Finances
BRICS nations advocated for a realignment of IMF quotas and World Bank shareholding to better reflect the contributions of emerging markets. “We want to reiterate that IMF quota realignment should not come at the expense of developing countries, but rather reflect the relative positions of countries in the global economy and increase DCEM quotas.”
Health
Global health cooperation was also a major focus. The declaration reaffirmed BRICS’ commitment to improving health outcomes through equity and inclusion. A notable development was the launch of the Partnership for the Elimination of Socially Determined Diseases, which seeks to tackle health disparities caused by factors like poverty and social exclusion.
“We are committed to actively supporting efforts to strengthen the global health architecture by promoting equality, inclusion, transparency, and responsiveness. This ensures that no country is left behind in achieving the health-related Sustainable Development Goals,” the bloc noted.
Artificial Intelligence
For the first time, AI took center stage at a BRICS Summit. The group emphasized the need for a unified Global South perspective on the governance of this rapidly evolving technology. “A collective global effort is needed to establish AI governance that upholds our shared values, addresses risks, builds trust, and ensures broad and inclusive international collaboration and access.”
Climate Change
Ahead of Brazil-hosted COP30, climate discussions led to the recognition of the Tropical Forest Forever Fund (TFFF)as a mechanism for long-term forest conservation funding. “Our Climate Framework Declaration charts a roadmap for the next five years to transform our capacity to raise resources for fighting climate change. With the collective scale of the BRICS, we will combat the climate crisis while make our economies stronger and fairer,” the group declared.
Peace, Security & Global Stability
The bloc also stressed the importance of peace and diplomacy amid rising global military spending. Leaders highlighted their concern for efforts to tie climate issues to security agendas and urged respect for national sovereignty in addressing challenges like poverty, hunger, and environmental degradation.
What Trump’s Threat Means For BRICS And Aligning Countries Like Nigeria
Nigeria officially became the ninth BRICS partner country on 17 January 2025, following Brazil’s announcement of its admission. This status, created during the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan in October 2024, now places Nigeria alongside Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan as a key strategic ally of the bloc.
President Donald Trump recently threatened to impose additional tariffs on BRICS-aligned countries, though he did not specify which BRICS policies he deemed “anti‑American.”
The Trump administration plans to implement these tariffs on 1 August, following a 90-day delay from the original 9 July timeline. The announcement came as BRICS leaders convened in Rio de Janeiro.
Nigeria could face serious economic setbacks if the tariffs materialize.
The United States is a major buyer of Nigerian crude oil, which comprises over 90% of Nigeria’s exports to the US, along with smaller volumes of fertilizer, agricultural produce, and manufactured goods. New tariffs on non-oil exports could disrupt Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its export base.
Moreover, Nigeria’s heavy dependence on oil makes it particularly vulnerable to price volatility and shifts in global energy demand, leaving its economy exposed in the event of protectionist US policies.
Trump’s tariff threat could pose a serious economic challenge to BRICS countries, particularly those with strong export ties to the U.S. While it may sow division and disrupt trade, it could also speed up internal BRICS integration and efforts to bypass traditional dollar-based systems.
Adopted Documents At The Summit
In addition to the leaders’ declaration, BRICS adopted three major documents under Brazil’s presidency;
The BRICS Leaders’ Framework Declaration on Climate Finance, the BRICS Leaders’ Declaration on Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence, and the BRICS Partnership for the Elimination of Socially Determined Diseases.
These declarations collectively reflect the bloc’s growing ambition to lead on issues central to the Global South and build a more inclusive and sustainable world order.
Enugu Air: Three Key State Airlines Debuted In The Last Five Years And How They Performed
Over the past five years, Nigeria’s aviation sector has experienced a remarkable surge in state-led initiatives, driven by a growing ambition among subnational governments to establish their own airlines.
This strategic move reflects a concerted effort to bolster local economies, enhance regional connectivity, and reduce reliance on federal infrastructure.
By investing in aviation, state governments aim to unlock economic opportunities, facilitate tourism, and improve access to major commercial hubs, thereby fostering development at both state and national levels.
Three State Airlines In The Past Few Years: Operations And Performance
Ibom Air (Akwa Ibom State, Debut: 2019)
Launched on June 7, 2019, Ibom Air, wholly owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government, was Nigeria’s first state-owned airline.
Operating from Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo, it started with a fleet of five Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft and has since expanded to include two Airbus A220-300s, with plans to acquire more.
Ibom Air serves seven domestic destinations, including Lagos, Abuja, Enugu, and Calabar, and has ventured into regional routes, such as Accra, Ghana.
Its business model emphasizes punctuality, safety, and customer service, earning it accolades like the Best Airline in Nigeria for three consecutive years (2020–2022) and an IATA Operational Safety Audit Certificate in 2023.
Financially, Ibom Air has shown resilience. In 2024, it reported a 43% revenue growth, from N67 billion in 2023 to N96 billion, with a net profit of N6.8 billion, recovering from an N8.7 billion loss in 2023 due to naira devaluation.
Its on-time performance is unmatched, with 706 of 708 scheduled flights in July 2022 departing on schedule. However, challenges like foreign exchange scarcity for aircraft maintenance and high operational costs persist.
Ibom Air’s codeshare agreement with Dana Air in 2021, the first of its kind in Nigeria, enhanced its market reach but ended when Dana Air ceased operations.
Cally Air (Cross River State, Debut: 2021)
Cross River State launched Cally Air in 2021, aiming to enhance tourism and connectivity in the state, known for attractions like the Obudu Cattle Ranch.
Operating with a single Boeing 737-300, Cally Air connects Calabar to Lagos and Abuja, with occasional flights to other cities. Managed in partnership with Aero Contractors, the airline focuses on affordability and reliability but has faced operational constraints due to its limited fleet.
Cally Air’s performance has been modest. It lacks the financial transparency of Ibom Air, and its market share remains small. Passenger feedback highlights inconsistent schedules and limited route options, partly due to reliance on a single aircraft.
While it has maintained operations without major disruptions, its growth has been stymied by funding challenges and competition from larger airlines like Air Peace and Ibom Air.
The state government has not publicly disclosed plans for fleet expansion, raising questions about long-term viability.
Enugu Air (Enugu State, Debut: 2025)
Enugu Air, the newest state-owned airline, commenced commercial operations on July 7, 2025, under the Enugu State Government’s ownership.
Operated by XEJet, a private aviation company, it uses three Embraer aircraft (E-170 and E-190) to connect Enugu with Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Kano.
The airline aims to position Enugu as a strategic aviation hub in southeastern Nigeria, with plans to expand its fleet to six aircraft by the end of 2025 and explore regional routes in West and Central Africa.
As of July 2025, Enugu Air’s performance is too early to fully assess, but initial reports are promising. Its first flight from Lagos to Akanu Ibiam International Airport was well-received, and the state government has secured office spaces at seven major Nigerian airports.
However, delays in its launch initially planned for May 2025 sparked concerns about project management. The airline’s reliance on XEJet’s Air Operator Certificate and crew has also raised questions about its operational independence.
Impact On State And Country
The emergence of Ibom Air, Cally Air, and Enugu Air has had a transformative effect on Nigeria’s aviation landscape. At the state level, these airlines have created thousands of jobs, from pilots and cabin crew to ground staff and engineers, boosting local economies.
For instance, Ibom Air employs 656 staff, while Enugu Air is expected to generate significant employment in the southeast.
These airlines have also enhanced tourism and business travel, with Ibom Air’s reliable service drawing passengers to Akwa Ibom’s hospitality sector and Cally Air promoting Cross River’s tourism assets.
Economically and financially, these airlines stimulate state revenue through increased economic activity, including higher airport traffic, local business patronage, and tax contributions from tourism and related sectors.
The development of cargo terminals, as with Enugu’s airport concessioning, enables direct exports, attracting investment and reducing reliance on distant hubs, further strengthening state economies.
Enugu Air’s launch aligns with Enugu’s ambition to host major events, such as the Nigerian Bar Association’s 2025 conference, attracting over 15,000 visitors.
Nationally, these airlines have intensified competition in the domestic market, challenging private carriers like Air Peace and United Nigeria Airlines.
This has led to improved service quality and more competitive fares, benefiting passengers. The airlines have also increased passenger traffic at regional airports, with Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu and Victor Attah International Airport in Uyo seeing higher activity.
By fostering connectivity, they support Nigeria’s economic diversification beyond oil, aligning with federal policies to grow local operators.
However, their reliance on state funding raises concerns about fiscal sustainability, especially in states with limited budgets.
Sustainability: Are They Still Doing Well Or Falling Out?
Ibom Air stands out as a success story, maintaining profitability and expanding its fleet despite economic challenges. Its strong corporate governance, highlighted during its first public Annual General Meeting in 2024, sets a benchmark for state-owned enterprises in Nigeria.
Cally Air, however, struggles with growth, limited by its single aircraft and lack of clear expansion plans. While it has not collapsed, its future depends on increased investment and strategic partnerships.
Enugu Air, still in its infancy, shows potential but faces risks from operational delays and dependence on XEJet. None of the airlines have folded, but only Ibom Air demonstrates robust sustainability.
What It Means To Manage An Airline
Managing a state-owned airline in Nigeria is a high-stakes endeavor fraught with challenges. It requires balancing commercial viability with public expectations, navigating a regulatory landscape overseen by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and securing consistent funding in a dollar-dependent industry. Effective management demands;
Financial Prudence: Ibom Air’s success stems from owning its fleet and avoiding leasing defaults, unlike many Nigerian carriers. Enugu Air’s reliance on Fidelity Bank financing and Cally Air’s leased aircraft highlight the need for sustainable funding models.
Operational Autonomy: Partnerships with private operators like XEJet (Enugu Air) or Aero Contractors (Cally Air) can streamline operations but risk ceding control, as seen in Cally Air’s struggles.
Regulatory Compliance: Obtaining and maintaining an AOC, as Enugu Air is still pursuing, involves rigorous safety and financial audits. The NCAA’s 2024 audit revealed most Nigerian airlines are financially unstable, underscoring the need for robust governance.
Market Competitiveness: High fares, fleet scarcity, and poor communication alienate passengers, as seen in criticisms of all three airlines.
Managers must invest in modern aircraft, competitive pricing, and customer service to survive.
Avoiding Bureaucracy: Keyamo’s warning to Enugu Air about Nigeria Airways’ collapse highlights the danger of political interference and mismanagement, a lesson Cally Air may already be grappling with.
The history of Nigerian aviation, littered with failed carriers like Nigeria Airways and Azman Air (suspended in 2024), shows that airlines require long-term vision, not short-term political gains. Ibom Air’s disciplined approach contrasts with Cally Air’s opacity and Enugu Air’s early uncertainties, illustrating the fine line between success and failure.
Ibom Air, Cally Air, and Enugu Air represent Nigeria’s evolving experiment with state-owned airlines, each with distinct trajectories.
Ibom Air’s success offers a blueprint for operational excellence, while Cally Air’s struggles and Enugu Air’s nascent challenges underscore the risks of mismanagement and over-reliance on private partners.
Their collective impact job creation, connectivity, and economic potential is tempered by financial strain and market volatility.
Managing these airlines demands financial acumen, regulatory compliance, and a commitment to passenger needs in a sector where failure is all too common.
As Enugu Air takes flight, its ability to learn from Ibom Air’s triumphs and Cally Air’s pitfalls will determine whether it soars or stumbles in Nigeria’s turbulent skies.
ASUU Embarks On Indefinite Strike: What This Means For Public Universities
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has directed its members nationwide to suspend academic services following the delay in the payment of June 2025 salaries.
This latest action is not the result of new demands, but rather the enforcement of an existing resolution passed by the union’s National Executive Council (NEC).
The industrial action began with the University of Jos and the University of Abuja and is expected to spread to other institutions where salaries remain unpaid. At the core of this protest is ASUU’s “No Pay, No Work” policy, a standing resolution by its National Executive Council (NEC), which mandates that if salaries are delayed beyond the third day of any month, members must withdraw their services until payments are made.
This move not only signals the union’s growing frustration, but also highlights the structural issues affecting Nigeria’s higher education system.
What’s ASUU’s Demand?
ASUU’s immediate demand is simple: timely payment of salaries. Since university lecturers were migrated from the Integrated Personnel Payroll and Information System (IPPIS) to the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System (GIFMIS), delays in salary disbursement have reportedly become frequent and frustrating.
ASUU President, Prof. Chris Piwuna, condemned what he called a deliberate delay by government officials, particularly those in the Office of the Accountant General. He stated that while the GIFMIS payment platform is working efficiently, the people managing it are not fulfilling their responsibilities.
Beyond salary delays, ASUU is also demanding the release of an outstanding N10 billion in Earned Academic Allowances (EAA). The Federal Government had committed to paying N50 billion, of which only N40 billion has been released so far. The union warns that if these issues remain unresolved, further actions may follow.
What It Means For Students?
For students, the implications of this strike are severe, and deeply personal. Interrupted lectures, postponed exams, and suspended academic calendars have become recurring themes in public universities. Each time this happens, students are forced to endure extended academic years and an uncertain future.
In an economy where prices are climbing and many families are already financially strained, the psychological and economic cost of another academic delay is overwhelming. Many students rely on precise timelines for graduation to apply for jobs, scholarships, or postgraduate programs. A prolonged strike can push these plans off-course, or cancel them altogether.
This frustration is even more intense for final-year students preparing for their last exams or for those on the brink of graduation. Every additional week of idleness translates to lost time, lost money, and often, lost motivation. The repetitive nature of these strikes also breeds disillusionment. Some students have begun to consider private universities or even international options if they can afford it, further widening the gap in educational access.
ASUU Leadership Reaction
ASUU leadership is standing firm on its position. Prof. Piwuna explained that the decision to strike is not made lightly, but is the result of repeated inaction by the government despite numerous meetings and complaints.
He emphasized that the salary payment delay is not a technical issue. “The platform is working well. The people responsible are simply not releasing the funds on time,” he said.
At the University of Jos, ASUU Chairman Jurbe Molwus also confirmed that union members have stopped participating in lectures and meetings. A strike monitoring team has been activated to ensure full compliance. He reiterated the NEC’s resolution: any branch that does not receive salaries by the third day of the month must immediately withdraw services.
Government’s Response So Far
So far, the Federal Government has remained largely silent on the matter. No official statement has been issued in response to the current ASUU action. However, ASUU claims to have repeatedly engaged the Minister of Education and the Office of the Accountant General without success.
This lack of engagement is not new. In past instances, government representatives often promise dialogue but fail to meet agreed timelines or release allocated funds. ASUU believes this pattern of neglect leaves it no choice but to act in the only way it knows how, through industrial action.
Social Media Reactions
As expected, the announcement of a new ASUU strike has stirred mixed reactions online:
@1KingCJ: “When lecturers aren’t paid, students suffer. ASUU’s strike is a cry for dignity; education shouldn’t be treated with neglect.”
@Al_ameeen_yabo: “For a union full of ‘intellectuals,’ ASUU’s only solution for decades is strike after strike. No innovation, no alternative methods, just holding students hostage. Innocent students pay the price while careers are put on hold. Something has to change.”
@gyal_arike: “ASUU, don’t do this to me pls… let me be done with exams first 😭😭”
These varied perspectives reflect a deepening public debate. While some support ASUU’s right to protest unfair treatment, others question whether repeated strikes are still effective or ethical, especially considering their impact on students.
This latest ASUU strike is not just another protest. It’s a sign of deeper cracks within Nigeria’s educational framework. If timely salary payments and mutual respect between the government and academic institutions cannot be guaranteed, the future of public university education hangs in the balance.
For students, this is not just about delayed classes. It’s about their lives, their goals, and their hope for stability in a system that too often fails them. It is a call to all stakeholders, especially the government, to act with urgency, integrity, and empathy. Without lasting solutions, Nigeria risks further alienating its young, educated population and weakening one of its most critical national assets: public education.
Attack In Red Sea Leaves Two Crew Members Dead, Others Injured
A deadly strike targeting the Liberian-flagged and Greek-operated bulk carrier Eternity C has claimed the lives of two crew members and wounded at least two more. The vessel came under attack near Yemen, marking a violent resurgence of maritime hostilities in the Red Sea.
According to Liberia’s delegation at a United Nations maritime gathering, the attack involved both sea drones and armed speedboats, and occurred just hours after a separate assault on another Liberia-registered, Greek-managed ship in the same region. This is the second such maritime incident reported in a single day after months of reduced activity.
The Red Sea, a vital corridor for global energy and goods, has seen a major decline in commercial traffic since November 2023 when the Houthis, a Yemeni armed group backed by Iran, began targeting vessels in protest of Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The deadly attack on Eternity C marks the first fatal incident involving merchant shipping in the area since June 2024. This raises the total number of seafarers killed in Red Sea-related maritime assaults to six.
Prior to the Eternity C incident, the Houthis claimed they had targeted the MV Magic Seas, another Liberian-flagged, Greek-run cargo vessel, allegedly sinking it during a strike off Yemen’s southwestern coast. However, no official confirmation regarding the ship’s sinking has been made.
All individuals aboard the Magic Seas were rescued by another merchant ship in the vicinity and have since arrived safely in Djibouti.
The Houthis have not issued any statements regarding the attack on the Eternity C.
“Just as Liberia was processing the shock and grief of the attack against Magic Seas, we received a report that Eternity C again has been attacked, attacked horribly and causing the death of two seafarers,” Liberia’s delegation told a session of the United Nations shipping agency, the International Maritime Organization, held in London this week.
Since the Houthis began their maritime campaign in late 2023, they have launched hundreds of aerial and sea-based weapons at passing vessels, claiming they are focused on ships tied to Israel.
Although a ceasefire agreement was reached with the United States in May, Houthi leadership has remained defiant, vowing to continue attacking vessels they suspect are affiliated with Israel.
“After several months of calm, the resumption of deplorable attacks in the Red Sea constitutes a renewed violation of international law and freedom of navigation,” IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said on Tuesday.
“Innocent seafarers and local populations are the main victims of these attacks and the pollution they cause.”
Both ships involved in the recent incidents have been linked to commercial shipping lines with records of docking in Israeli ports within the past year.
“The pause in Houthi activity did not necessarily indicate a change in underlying intent. As long as the conflict in Gaza persists, vessels with affiliations, both perceived and actual, will continue to face elevated risks,” said Ellie Shafik, head of intelligence with the Britain-based maritime risk management company Vanguard Tech.
Additional injuries were reported among Eternity C’s crew, as confirmed by the vessel’s operator and maritime safety sources. The ship was said to be listing following the impact of the attack.
The bulk carrier had 22 people aboard, 21 Filipino nationals and one Russian when it was struck. According to maritime security insiders, the assailants used unmanned sea vehicles and rocket-propelled grenades launched from small, crewed speedboats.
In light of the situation, the Philippines’ Department of Migrant Workers advised Filipino seafarers who make up a significant portion of the global shipping workforce to consider declining assignments through high-risk maritime zones like the Red Sea.
The volume of shipping through this crucial trade corridor has fallen by roughly half since the first wave of Houthi assaults began last year, noted a senior official from a global shipping safety organization.
“This reduction in traffic has persisted due to the ongoing unpredictability of the security situation. As such, BIMCO does not anticipate the recent attacks will significantly alter current shipping patterns,” Larsen said.
The latest strike occurred approximately 50 nautical miles southwest of Hodeidah, Yemen, and is being reported as only the second such incident in the region involving merchant shipping since November 2024, according to an official involved in the European Union’s naval protection mission.
Trump Slams 30% Tariff On South African Goods
United States President Donald Trump has moved to impose a 30% tariff on all South African imports, intensifying trade tensions under his administration’s reciprocal duties policy, according to reports from EWN.
Trump reportedly communicated the decision directly to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, asserting that South Africa has long benefited from trade imbalances through what he described as non-tariff barriers. The White House maintains that the tariff is a corrective measure designed to create what it terms a “more balanced trade system.”
In his message to Ramaphosa, Trump warned that any retaliatory response by South Africa could lead to even higher tariffs, indicating little room for negotiation or reversal under current U.S. trade policy direction.
“South Africa has long benefited from trade deficits through non-tariff barriers,” Trump said, justifying the sweeping 30% import tax. “These tariffs will create a more balanced trade system.”
Despite diplomatic efforts from South Africa aimed at reversing the tariff decision, the new rate remains firmly in place. Pretoria has yet to release a full formal response, but initial reports confirm that President Ramaphosa disputed Trump’s interpretation of the trade balance between the two nations.
South Africa, which exports a wide range of products to the United States—from automobiles and wine to minerals and manufactured goods—could face significant economic implications from the new tariff regime, especially if retaliatory trade measures follow.
“We do not agree with the U.S. government’s interpretation of the current balance of trade,” Ramaphosa reportedly stated in his response, though further details of the communication remain undisclosed.
The new development adds to the growing list of global trade disputes triggered by Trump’s “America First” economic strategy, which has seen similar tariff impositions on allies and trade partners under the pretext of trade reciprocity and domestic protectionism.
Nigerian Military Intensifies Airstrikes On Boko Haram In Borno
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) launched precision airstrikes on July 6, 2025, targeting Boko Haram hideouts in the Mandara Mountains, Borno State, as part of Operation Hadin Kai.
The operation demolished terrorist strongholds in Wa Jahode and Loghpere, neutralizing several insurgents and disrupting their logistics and command networks.
Intelligence had revealed heightened activity by the Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) faction, prompting swift military action.
President Bola Tinubu has ordered the armed forces to escalate efforts against terrorists, insurgents, and separatists threatening Nigeria’s unity.
“The military has my full support to crush these threats,” Tinubu declared, responding to growing security concerns in the northeast.
The airstrikes come on the heels of a deadly Boko Haram attack in Malam Fatori, Abadam Local Government Area, which claimed nine lives and injured four, underscoring the persistent challenge of insurgency.
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, represented by Commissioner Sugun Mele, condemned the Malam Fatori attack and warned residents against collaborating with terrorists.
The state is working to resettle 3,000 households in the area to restore stability. Recent NAF operations, including strikes in Bita on May 30 that killed over 30 insurgents and a June 5 assault on fleeing terrorists in Buratai, have weakened Boko Haram’s operational capacity.
Despite these efforts, Borno remains volatile, with recent suicide bombings and raids fueling fears of resurgent violence.
The NAF, backed by regional forces like the Nigerien Defence Force, continues to target terrorist enclaves to prevent further attacks. As the military intensifies its campaign, Borno’s residents hope for lasting peace amid ongoing efforts to dismantle extremist networks.
