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Brugge’s Own Goal Lights Up Champions League Drama as Giants Falter and Underdogs Rise

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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It was one of those nights the Champions League was made for, full of chaos, comebacks, and pure football theatre. From a wild 3–3 draw in Bruges to a masterclass in Manchester, November 5th delivered another reminder that in Europe’s top competition, reputations mean little once the whistle blows.

Barcelona’s Rollercoaster in Bruges

The night’s headline drama came in Belgium, where Club Brugge and FC Barcelona shared six goals in a breathless 3–3 draw. The hosts, stung by a heavy defeat to Bayern Munich a week earlier, responded with passion and precision — and a touch of luck.

An early own goal from a Brugge defender handed Barcelona an unexpected advantage, but the Catalans struggled to maintain control. The Belgian champions struck back twice within the opening 20 minutes, capitalising on defensive lapses from Barça to turn the match on its head.

Barcelona, fresh from a 6–1 demolition of Olympiacos, seemed set for another comfortable win after regaining their attacking rhythm in the second half. Goals in the 61st and 77th minutes showed their intent, but Brugge’s spirited equaliser in the 63rd kept the contest alive until the very end.

In truth, both sides could have won it, and both had reason to feel frustrated. Barcelona dominated possession but lacked sharpness in transition. Brugge, buoyed by their home crowd, proved that heart and hunger can level any tactical advantage.

City’s Ruthless Precision Destroys Dortmund

While chaos reigned in Bruges, Manchester City were their usual efficient selves. Pep Guardiola’s men brushed aside Borussia Dortmund 4–1 at the Etihad, showcasing why they remain favourites to retain their European crown.

Phil Foden was the star of the show with two expertly taken goals, while Erling Haaland continued his relentless scoring run against his former club. City’s movement and intensity overwhelmed Dortmund, who simply couldn’t keep pace. For Guardiola, it was another tactical masterclass; for Dortmund, a painful reminder of the gap between good and great.

Atalanta’s Late Heroics Break Marseille Hearts

Over in Italy, Atalanta produced one of the night’s most dramatic finishes. Locked at 1–1 with Marseille deep into stoppage time, the home side snatched a 2–1 victory with a deflected shot that sent the Gewiss Stadium into pandemonium.

It was a cruel ending for Marseille, who had played bravely and seemed destined for at least a point. Instead, Gian Piero Gasperini’s side grabbed all three, tightening their grip on a potential knockout berth and leaving Marseille’s campaign hanging by a thread.

Leverkusen Grind Out Victory, Newcastle Shine at Home

In Lisbon, Bayer Leverkusen edged Benfica 1–0 in a cagey contest defined by discipline rather than drama. Patrik Schick’s first-half goal was enough to secure all three points, while Benfica’s misfiring attack once again failed to deliver.

Back in England, Newcastle United impressed with a confident 2–0 win over Athletic Club. Eddie Howe’s men looked composed, clinical, and determined to prove that last season’s European run was no fluke.

The New Format, the Old Tension

This season’s expanded league-style Champions League format means every match carries extra weight, and every goal, even an own goal, can shift the standings dramatically. With 36 teams battling for the top eight automatic spots, fine margins have never mattered more.

Wednesday night underscored that reality. City continue to set the pace, Leverkusen and Atalanta are quietly climbing, while traditional powerhouses like Barcelona and Benfica face mounting pressure.

The Takeaway

From Brugge’s accidental generosity to Atalanta’s last-gasp joy, this round had everything, goals, grit, and the glorious unpredictability that defines the Champions League.

Barcelona’s draw was a reminder that even Europe’s most elegant teams can be undone by the smallest twist of fate. For Brugge and other underdogs across the continent, it was proof that courage, not budget, often decides the night.

The Champions League remains a stage where giants stumble and outsiders rise, and on this November evening, it shone brighter than ever.

NNPCL Restates Goal To Hit 2 million Barrels Daily By 2027

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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0

‎The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) reaffirmed its pledge to reach 2 million barrels per day (bpd) of oil production by 2027, urging bold global partnerships and investments to eradicate energy poverty throughout Africa.
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‎At the “Energy Talk” session of the ongoing Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC 2025) in the United Arab Emirates, NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer Bayo Ojulari delivered these remarks.
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‎Responding to questions from the host and Pulitzer Prize-winning energy author Daniel Yergin, the GCEO underscored Nigeria’s central role in Africa’s energy landscape, declaring that NNPC serves as the cornerstone for achieving energy self-sufficiency across the continent.
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‎He noted that NNPC has boosted Nigeria’s oil production to 1.7 million barrels per day, aiming for 2 million bpd by 2027 and 3 million bpd over the longer term, a trajectory fueled by refreshed ties with Independent Oil Companies (IOCs) and independents, the elimination of longstanding obstacles, and alignment on mutual benefits.
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‎He reiterated the company’s dedication to collaborating with OPEC counterparts, African National Oil Companies (NOCs), and financial institutions to secure $30–$60 billion in new capital by 2030.
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‎Ojulari highlighted that fresh government incentives, building on the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), are already drawing funds into deep-water exploration, dry-gas projects, and cost-efficiency measures.
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‎He showcased flagship initiatives including the revival of upstream assets through fast-tracked field development, major gas-infrastructure growth—such as the nearly finished Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) pipeline and the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) line—and the rollout of cleaner fuels via the Presidential CNG Initiative and expanded autogas networks.
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‎Ojulari emphasized Nigeria’s immense oil, gas, and renewable resources, pointing out that President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is steering the country from raw extraction toward a diversified, investment-friendly energy powerhouse.
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‎“Africa’s energy future must be built on pragmatism, partnerships, and purpose. At NNPC Limited, we are not just participating in the energy transition, we are shaping it from an African perspective. Our focus is pragmatic: grow production, monetize gas, deepen partnerships, and deliver value to Nigerians and global partners alike,” Ojulari stated.
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‎Mirroring the keynote by UAE Minister of Industry and ADNOC CEO Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber—who advocated “pragmatic, not performative” energy policies and stressed the need for $4 trillion in annual global energy investment—Ojulari called on international players to co-finance Africa’s energy evolution.
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‎“Our message to the world is clear: Nigeria is open for business, and NNPC Limited is fit for the future and we invite the world to co-invest in Africa’s energy transformation,” he said.
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‎NNPC declared that its participation in ADIPEC 2025 reflects its transformation into a profit-driven, globally active energy leader that powers Nigeria while helping chart the continent’s energy destiny.
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‎ADIPEC, hosted by the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and one of the planet’s premier energy gatherings, carries the 2025 theme “Energy. Intelligence. Impact” in its 41st edition.
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‎Days earlier, Ojulari guided a senior delegation through NNPC’s exhibition booth at ADIPEC, reinforcing the company’s resolve to forge worldwide alliances, advance energy equity, and secure sustainable capital.
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‎Greeted by Executive Vice President, Business Services Sophia Mbakwe and other top officers, the GCEO’s tour—joined by the NNPC Board Chairman and directors—signaled cohesive leadership behind the company’s global outreach.
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‎Ojulari also addressed a private gathering of the Global Oil Club, an elite assembly of top energy firms and institutions, where he stressed the pressing need to end energy poverty in Africa and proposed joint-investment models to de-risk infrastructure and unlock shared wealth.
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‎“Africa’s energy future must be built on collaboration, innovation, and inclusion. NNPC Limited stands ready to co-create solutions that will deliver real impact,” the GCEO stated.
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‎Representing NNPC further, Executive Vice President, Upstream Udy Ntia spoke at the Global Strategy Session “Beyond the Barrel: The Future of Upstream Strategy,” affirming the company’s eagerness to co-fund sector-wide breakthroughs while rapidly scaling Nigeria’s oil and gas output in step with national and regional energy goals.

FG Appoints John Nwabueze As Tax Ombudsman

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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‎The Federal Government has named Dr John Nwabueze as the Tax Ombudsman, pursuant to the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Act, 2025.
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‎This was disclosed in a statement released by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Tuesday.
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‎The statement noted: “The appointment aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to implementing far-reaching and sustainable reforms in the tax and revenue administration framework.”
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‎It added: “Dr John Nwabueze, from Oshimili South Local Government Area of Delta State, brings extensive professional and public service experience to the new job.”
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‎Before this appointment, he was Managing Partner of a leading tax advisory firm, Technical Adviser to the Joint Senate Committees on the Federal Capital Territory and Finance, and Technical Adviser to the Chief Economic Adviser to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, among other notable roles in the public and private sectors.
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‎Dr Nwabueze earned a Doctor of Business Administration (Finance) from Walden University, Minneapolis, USA; a Master of Science in Accounting from Strayer University, Washington, D.C.; and double Bachelor of Science degrees in Accounting and Mathematics from the University of Jos, Nigeria.
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‎President Tinubu congratulated Dr Nwabueze on his appointment and expressed full confidence in his ability to execute the duties of the office with integrity, diligence, and the highest level of professionalism.
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‎The Office of the Tax Ombudsman has been created to bolster transparency and accountability in the tax system, boost public trust in tax administration, and establish a formal, fair, and impartial channel for resolving disputes between taxpayers and revenue agencies.
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‎The Office will receive, investigate, and settle complaints concerning taxes, levies, regulatory fees, customs duties, excise matters, and related issues, in line with existing laws and regulations.
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‎The Tax Ombudsman is also charged with ensuring that disputes are handled efficiently, impartially, and without confrontation, thereby protecting taxpayers from arbitrary or abusive actions by tax officials.

Africa Projected To Be Fourth-Largest Economy By 2050 – WTO

By
Ohiomoje Margaret
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The World Trade Organisation (WTO) has projected that Africa could become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2050 if it fully harnesses its demographic strength, natural resources, and trade potential.

WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala highlighted the continent’s vast opportunities but noted that intra-African trade remains significantly more expensive than trade with other regions.

“It costs 20 per cent more for us to trade with each other on the continent than with others externally,” she said.

Okonjo-Iweala attributed this gap to factors such as poor infrastructure, inefficient border systems, and high logistics and transport costs, which continue to impede regional trade growth.

Despite these barriers, she expressed optimism about Africa’s economic prospects, pointing to its abundant resources and young, dynamic population as key drivers for long-term growth.

“The African continent has a lot of resources and a lot of things going for it. But there are also many challenges,” she said.

According to WTO data, only 18 per cent of Africa’s exports remain within the continent, compared to 60 per cent in Asia and 70 per cent in Europe. She described this imbalance as “unsustainable if Africa hopes to reach its full economic potential.”

She also noted that small and medium-sized enterprises are the most affected by high trade costs, as they often find it cheaper to export outside the continent than to neighbouring African countries.

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), launched in 2021 to create a unified market of 54 countries, aims to address these challenges. However, its full implementation has been gradual, with only a few nations ratifying the key protocols on services and investment.

The WTO maintains that effective execution of the AfCFTA could “boost intra-African trade by more than 50 per cent by 2030.”

“Africa is an exciting continent, despite the challenges,” Okonjo-Iweala said, adding that sectors such as renewable energy, digital innovation, and manufacturing are showing immense potential, supported by a median age of just 19.

The African Development Bank also projects that, with consistent growth and regional integration, Africa could rise to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by mid-century.

Currently, the continent holds about 30 per cent of global mineral reserves, including lithium and cobalt—key materials for clean energy technologies. However, limited local processing capacity means much of these resources are exported in raw form, minimizing value addition.

“We need to move up the value chain,” Okonjo-Iweala said.

The WTO also expressed concern over external pressures such as geopolitical conflicts and climate change, which disrupt supply chains and inflate food and energy costs. The Russia-Ukraine conflict, for instance, has raised food and fertilizer prices, while climate-induced droughts and floods continue to affect production and logistics.

Less than three per cent of global climate finance currently reaches Africa, a shortfall the WTO says must be corrected for sustainable growth.

Regional leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to the AfCFTA rollout, targeting full operation by 2027. Initiatives like the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System are also expected to lower transaction costs and reduce dependence on foreign currencies.

“Africa is not a monolith; each country has its strengths,” Okonjo-Iweala said.

She cited Rwanda’s growing tech ecosystem and Morocco’s expanding automotive industry as examples of regional diversification.

“The challenges are real, but so is the opportunity,” she added, expressing confidence that with stronger infrastructure, coordinated policies, and effective implementation of trade reforms, Africa’s economic rise could reshape global trade dynamics.

She reaffirmed the WTO’s support for Africa’s efforts to double its growth rate and assume a central role in the global economy by 2050.

Shettima Departs For Brazil To Attend COP30

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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0

‎Vice President Kashim Shettima left Abuja for Belém, Brazil, to represent Nigeria at the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30), where global leaders are gathering.
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‎Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is hosting the two-day summit on November 6 and 7 in the Amazon rainforest, a setting chosen to spotlight forest preservation, biodiversity, climate justice, and tangible progress on climate goals.
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‎For Nigeria, the trip to Belém is a high-stakes diplomatic push to unlock fresh carbon-finance streams, strengthen ties among Global South nations, and showcase the Tinubu government’s resolve for a fair energy transition.
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‎The conference theme, “Climate Action and Implementation”, captures Africa’s core dilemma: meeting pressing development demands while honouring global emission cuts, and securing the funding to make it possible.
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‎On his opening day at COP30, Shettima will address the leaders’ plenary, presenting Nigeria’s roadmap for adaptation funding, rainforest protection, renewable power expansion, and a maturing carbon-market strategy.
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‎He will then take part in the rollout of the Tropical Forest Forever Fund, a global partnership designed to safeguard vital forest regions.
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‎Shettima will also attend a presidential roundtable on Climate and Nature hosted by President Lula, followed by an evening reception for all heads of delegation.

What You Should Know About Nigeria’s 50 New Tax Exemptions

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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Starting January 1, 2026, Nigerians, particularly low-income earners, small businesses, and average taxpayers, will begin to enjoy a wide range of tax waivers and reliefs under the new tax reform laws introduced by the Federal Government.

The Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, chaired by Taiwo Oyedele, released a breakdown of 50 specific tax exemptions and relief categories designed to ease the financial burden on individuals and businesses, while promoting growth and inclusion in the economy.

Personal Income Tax / PAYE — Who Won’t Pay Income Tax

Certain income levels and categories will now be fully exempt or enjoy significant reliefs:

1. Workers earning the national minimum wage or less — exempt
2. Individuals earning up to ₦1.2 million annually — exempt
3. Individuals earning up to ₦20 million yearly — eligible for relief
4. Gifts received are not taxable

Deductions That Reduce Tax (Before PAYE)

Taxpayers can now deduct key personal expenses before tax is calculated:

5. Pension contribution
6. NHIS contribution
7. National Housing Fund contributions
8. Interest on home ownership loans
9. Life insurance or annuity payments
10. Rent relief up to ₦500,000 or 20% of annual rent

Pension and Retirement Income — Fully Exempt

Retirement-related funds and benefits are protected:

11. Pension funds and assets
12. Pension, gratuity, and retirement benefits
13. Job loss compensation up to ₦50 million

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) — Reduced or Waived

Certain asset sales and gains will no longer attract CGT:

14. Sale of personal homes
15. Sale of personal items up to ₦5 million
16. Sale of up to two private cars yearly
17. Small share transactions under ₦150m / ₦10m — exempt
18. Reinvested share gains — tax-free
19. Pension funds, charities, and religious bodies (non-commercial) — exempt

Companies Income Tax — Boost for Small Businesses

To support job creation and innovation:

20. Small companies (≤ ₦100m turnover) — no CIT
21. Labelled startups — exempt
22. Employers that raise salaries for low-income workers get deductions
23. Employers that hire and retain staff for 3 years get additional relief
24. Agric-based companies — 5-year tax holiday
25. Venture capital investors in startups — exempt

Development Levy — Waived for Small Firms

26. Small businesses are not required to pay this levy

Withholding Tax (WHT) — Reduced for Small Enterprises

27. Small companies, manufacturers, and agric businesses — exempt
28. Payments to suppliers by small companies — exempt

Value Added Tax (VAT) — Zero on Essentials

Essential goods and services remain VAT-free or zero-rated:

29. Basic food items,
30. House rent,
31. Education,
32. Healthcare
33. Pharmaceuticals,
34. agricultural inputs, and equipment hire
35. Diesel, petrol, solar equipment
Disability aids, baby products, sanitary items
Public transport, electric vehicles, humanitarian relief items
Small companies (≤ ₦100m turnover) — not required to charge VAT
Buying/selling land and buildings — VAT-free
VAT refunds allowed for production capital purchases

Stamp Duty — Removed for Small Transactions

To encourage financial inclusion and ease digital transactions:

46. Electronic transfers below ₦10,000 — exempt
47. Salary payments and intra-bank transfers — exempt
48. Transfers within the same bank — exempt
49. Transfers of government securities and shares — exempt
50. Documents for share transfers — exempt

These 50 exemptions and relief measures form part of Nigeria’s 2024–2026 Fiscal Roadmap, set to take effect from January 2026, marking a major step toward a fairer and more inclusive tax system.

    Trump’s Threat: EU, ECOWAS, China rally behind Nigeria

    By
    Ohiomoje Margaret
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    0

    Key international blocs and nations have dismissed United States President Donald Trump’s warning of possible military action against Nigeria over alleged persecution of Christians, cautioning that such assertions misrepresent the country’s multifaceted security problems.

    In separate statements, the European Union (EU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and China urged restraint and emphasized respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty. They stressed that terrorist activities in the region affect people of all faiths without discrimination.

    The EU pointed out that religion is only one among several contributors to Nigeria’s insecurity and, in many cases, not the main factor driving violence.

    Meanwhile, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said the legislature would work closely with the executive arm to address the U.S. president’s remarks. He explained that the American position relied on outdated intelligence and reaffirmed that Nigeria’s security challenges cut across all religions, not a single faith group.

    The EU’s spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy, Anouar El Anouni, said the Union had taken note of the statements from Washington and extended condolences to families affected by recent attacks in southern and northeastern Nigeria.

    “The EU reaffirms its commitment to freedom of religion and belief, and to the protection of all communities, especially minorities, and we underline our commitment to the peaceful coexistence of the Nigerian population beyond geographical, ethnic, political, or religious differences. We recognise the many factors behind the violence in Nigeria. Let us note that religion is only one of these factors, and only in certain instances,” he said.

    El Anouni also explained that the EU is partnering with Nigerian institutions to strengthen peacebuilding efforts, prevent further violence, and support victims displaced by attacks.

    Similarly, ECOWAS reiterated that violent extremism in West Africa does not target any particular religion, stressing that the crisis has affected Muslims, Christians, and followers of other beliefs alike.

    According to the regional body, extremist groups have killed civilians of diverse backgrounds and continue to spread insecurity that disregards ethnicity, gender, or creed.

    “The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) wishes to draw the attention of partners and the international community as a whole to the growing level of violence that terrorist groups of different colouration have perpetrated in some countries in the West African region, including Nigeria.

    “Perpetrators of this violence target innocent civilians of all religious denominations, including Muslims, Christians, and adherents to other religions. As independent reports have confirmed over the years, terrorist-related violence does not discriminate on the basis of gender, religion, ethnicity, or age,” ECOWAS stated.

    The Commission appealed to the United Nations and other global partners to support regional counterterrorism efforts and disregard narratives portraying the situation as one-sided or as genocide against Christians.

    “ECOWAS strongly rejects these false and dangerous claims that seek to deepen insecurity in communities and weaken social cohesion in the region. ECOWAS calls on the whole world to stand by the countries in the region in their fight against terrorism that targets all communities,” the statement added.

    China also urged the United States to avoid interfering in Nigeria’s domestic affairs on religious or human rights grounds.

    At a press briefing in Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stated that China opposed any form of sanctions or threats of military intervention against Nigeria.

    “As a comprehensive strategic partner of Nigeria, China firmly supports the Nigerian government in leading its people to a development path that fits Nigeria’s national realities. We oppose any country’s interference in other countries’ internal affairs under the pretext of religion and human rights. We oppose the wanton threat of sanction and use of force,” Mao said.

    She was responding to a journalist’s question referencing Trump’s decision to label Nigeria a “country of particular concern” on October 31, citing alleged persecution of Christians. The reporter also mentioned Nigeria’s response, in which the government rejected the U.S. assessment as inaccurate and reaffirmed its dedication to protecting citizens, promoting diversity, and combating violent extremism.

    Meanwhile, U.S. lawmaker Riley Moore defended Trump’s remarks in a post on X, stating, “President Trump is absolutely right to defend our brothers and sisters in Christ who are suffering horrific persecution, and even martyrdom, for their faith in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. China will not dictate our foreign policy to us, and we will not be lectured to by a Communist autocracy that recently arrested 30 Christian pastors for their faith and throws ethnic minorities in concentration camps.”

    NNPC Targets 20% Stake In Dangote Refinery

    By
    Tosin Onisuuru
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    The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has announced plans to increase its equity stake in the $20 billion Dangote Petroleum Refinery to 20 percent, in a strategic move to strengthen Nigeria’s local refining capacity and consolidate its influence in the downstream oil sector.

    Speaking at the 2025 Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference, NNPC’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, stated that the move aligns with the company’s long-term goal of deepening local participation in the energy value chain and ensuring national energy security.

    “We are working towards increasing our stake in Nigeria’s Dangote Refinery to 20 percent,” Ojulari said, as reported by Reuters.

    The announcement follows recent comments by Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, who disclosed plans to list between five and ten percent of the refinery’s shares on the Nigerian Exchange within the next year. The listing would follow a similar strategy used by the group’s cement and sugar subsidiaries.

    Dangote noted that the refinery’s public listing would be gradual, depending on investor interest and market performance.

    “We don’t want to keep more than 65 to 70 percent. I want to show what this refinery can do before we sit down to talk,” he said.

    If realized, NNPC’s increased stake would represent an additional 13 percent investment, up from its current 7.2 percent holding.

    The development comes as NNPC continues its search for technical and equity partners to revive its three dormant state-owned refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna. Despite years of rehabilitation efforts, these facilities remain inactive, leaving Nigeria dependent on imported petroleum products.

    Industry experts believe that once the Dangote Refinery reaches full capacity, combined with NNPC’s ongoing refinery rehabilitation programme, Nigeria could finally achieve self-sufficiency in refined petroleum products, a milestone the nation has pursued for decades.

    Ojulari also highlighted NNPC’s strides toward greater transparency and accountability, noting that the company has begun publishing monthly performance reports as part of its transformation ahead of its planned initial public offering (IPO).

    “The Petroleum Industry Act requires NNPC to transition into a publicly listed company. It’s not optional,” Ojulari explained. “Since May, we’ve been releasing our monthly performance reports to build public trust and demonstrate accountability.”

    He emphasized that NNPC is positioning itself as a commercially driven, globally competitive energy company, focused on efficiency, transparency, and profitability.

    “We are building an institution Nigerians can be proud of, transparent, efficient, and ready to compete on a global scale,” Ojulari concluded.

    Tinubu Names Enugu AG, Kingsley Udeh, As Minister

    By
    Olaosun Rebecca
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    1

    ‎Just weeks after Mr. Uche Nnaji stepped down as Minister of Science, Innovation, and Technology amid claims of certificate forgery, President Bola Tinubu has put forward Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh (SAN) to take the role.
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    ‎The appointment of Udeh, presently the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Enugu State, was announced in a letter the President sent to the Senate, which Senate President Godswill Akpabio read aloud during Tuesday’s sitting.
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    ‎In the letter, Tinubu asked the Senate to fast-track the confirmation process as required by the Constitution.
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    ‎The letter read in part: “In compliance with the provisions of Section 147, Subsection 2 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, I am pleased to forward to the Senate the nomination of Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh for confirmation as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
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    ‎“While I hope that this request will receive the usual expeditious consideration of the Senate, please accept, distinguished Senate President and distinguished Senators, the assurances of my highest regards.”
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    ‎After the letter was read, the Senate immediately sent the nomination to the Committee of the Whole for screening and confirmation.
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    ‎Dr. Udeh, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria from Enugu State, is set to occupy the ministerial seat left vacant by Nnaji.
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    ‎Nnaji, sworn in during August 2023, tendered his resignation last month after persistent allegations of certificate forgery.
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    ‎His exit followed intense demands from civil society organisations and Enugu political figures for his removal.
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    ‎By naming Udeh, the Tinubu government aims to rebuild public trust in the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Technology, a key driver of Nigeria’s tech agenda.
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    ‎The Senate plans to vet the nominee this week and then send its decision to the President.

    At Least Seven Dead After Cargo Aircraft Crashes In Kentucky

    By
    Ohiomoje Margaret
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    A cargo aircraft crashed during takeoff from an airport in Louisville, Kentucky, on Tuesday evening, leaving at least seven people dead, according to the state’s governor.

    Governor Andy Beshear stated that the plane’s three crew members were believed to be among those killed after the aircraft exploded shortly after departure at around 5:15 p.m. local time (10:15 p.m. GMT).

    At least eleven others sustained injuries in the crash, which sent thick, dark smoke billowing into the air.

    Authorities reported that several people suffered “very significant” injuries and warned that the number of fatalities could increase.

    Two employees at an auto shop struck by the plane were still missing as of Tuesday night, and it was unclear how many customers had been inside when the crash occurred.

    The company operating the flight confirmed that three crew members were on board, saying, “we have not confirmed any injuries/casualties.”

    A preliminary investigation has been launched, but officials said it remains too soon to determine what led to the crash.

    They noted, however, that the intense fire resulted from the large quantity of jet fuel the plane was carrying for its planned 4,300-mile (6,920-kilometre) flight to Hawaii.

    The aircraft reportedly contained about 38,000 gallons (144,000 litres) of fuel when it went down.

    Officials have not disclosed the nature of the cargo, but confirmed that nothing onboard posed a heightened contamination threat.

    The explosion spread to at least two nearby businesses, including one that handled petroleum materials. Initially, residents within five miles of the airport were told to shelter indoors due to possible secondary explosions and air quality concerns, though the order was later narrowed to a one-mile radius.

    All outbound flights scheduled for Tuesday night were cancelled, according to an airport statement released on X.

    Fire Chief Brian O’Neal said the large volume of fuel spilled at the crash scene created a “very dangerous situation.”

    The shelter-in-place order was later reduced from a five-mile to a one-mile radius as emergency teams continued battling the blaze on Tuesday night.

    During a press briefing, Beshear urged people to avoid the area of the crash.

    “Anyone who has seen the images and the video knows how violent this crash is,” he said.

    “There are still dangerous things that are flammable, that are potentially explosive.”

    Beshear added that he would not “speculate” about the cause, explaining that the National Transportation Safety Bureau (NTSB) will lead the investigation.

    The NTSB team is expected to arrive in Kentucky on Wednesday.

    Louisville’s police chief, Paul Humphrey, said the location will remain “an ongoing active scene for the next several days.”

    He added: “We don’t know how long it’s going to take to render that scene safe for the investigation to take place.”

    The downed aircraft was an MD-11F, a three-engine jet that first entered service 34 years ago as a passenger plane before being converted for cargo use in 2006.

    The model was originally built by McDonnell Douglas, which later merged with another major aircraft manufacturer in 1997.

    In 2023, both major cargo carriers operating in the United States announced plans to gradually retire their MD-11 fleets over the next decade as part of modernization efforts.

    A statement from the aircraft manufacturer said it is “ready to support our customer” and that “our concern is for the safety and well-being of all those affected.” The company added that it would provide technical assistance to the NTSB.

    Louisville serves as a major hub for global air cargo operations and is home to one of the largest package-handling facilities in the world.

    At the press conference, city council member Betsy Ruhe described Louisville as a “UPS town,” emphasizing that nearly everyone in the community knows someone employed by the company.

    “They’re all texting their friends, their family, trying to make sure everyone is safe,” she said.

    The company said it was “terribly saddened” by the incident and confirmed that sorting operations at its Louisville hub had been paused for the night.

    It added: “UPS is committed to the safety of our employees, and customers and the communities we serve. This is particularly true in Louisville, home to our airline and thousands of UPSers.”

    State Senator Keturah Herron remarked, “Many of us watch our family members and loved ones pass through [Louisville airport] on a regular basis.”

    In a message posted on X, Mayor Craig Greenberg described the crash as an “incredible tragedy that our community will never forget.”

    He added: “We are so thankful for our brave first responders who have flooded the scene to help try and control the fire and provide support for any victims on the ground.”

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