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March 27, 2024

FCT residents lament month-old power blackout

The Niger State House of Assembly has given its legislative backing for the state government to pull out of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company, (AEDC), over epileptic and poor electricity supply in the state.

The assembly at its plenary on Tuesday directed Governor Umar Bago, to immediately start negotiations with another electricity distribution company, towards getting the state back on better electricity supply terms.

The lawmakers passed a Vote of No Confidence on the AEDC, after its management, led by the Chief Operating Officer, Okwuokenye Chijioke, blamed the epileptic power supply to the state, on N3 billion in debts, when he appeared before the house members.

The Speaker of the Assembly, Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, expressed dismay over the situation of electricity supply in the state, even though Niger State is hosting four hydropower stations that contribute 60 percent of electricity to the national grid.

According to the speaker, there is no justification, whatsoever, for the state not to enjoy a minimum of 18 hours of electricity supply in a day.

He added that the people of the state have been pushed to the wall, and will no longer tolerate the continued blackout of the state by the distribution company.

On his part, Chijioke said the company is not unaware of the complaints by the people, over the poor power supply, but blames the situation on the poor payment culture of the consumers.

He said the distribution company only realised 60 percent of the energy supply to the people in the state.

The company is losing enormous energy, as a result of the non-payment of energy consumed by the people.

The assembly, thereafter, passed a Vote of Confidence on Governor Umar Bago, over what they termed, visionary and developmental leadership, in less than one year in office.

Farmers’ Protest Seizure of Farmlands In Ondo

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March 27, 2024

Farmers Lost N12bn to Ginger Disease – Federal Govt.

Farmers from 24 communities in Ondo West Local Government Area of the Ondo State have continued their week-long protest over take over of their farmlands by the State Government.

Their farmlands were reportedly leased to a Chinese firm.

The farmers, who blocked the Benin-Ore highway, listed some of the affected communities and camps to include Aosho, Ulugba, Adejori, Kabiyesi, Lafa, Oloruntedo, Obadore Yinka, Keseomi, Lomofe, Gbekelu, Langbodo, , Abuja, Lopaun , Sahara , Aba Cocoa, Topeu, Bolorunduro , Iyolope and Yemisi.

They said they are into cultivation of cocoa, palm oil, cashew and other cash crops.

The protesters said it was inhumane for the State Government to hijack their source of livelihood from them.

Inscriptions on the placards read in parts “No Farmers, no Nation”; “We are not slaves”; “Don’t turn us to kidnappers and bandits”; “Let the farmers breathe” and “We are farmers, not terrorists,” among others.

A former Secretary of the Ondo West Local Council, Alhaji Oluwole Bashiru, who spoke on behalf of the protesters, begged Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to correct the wrongs perpetrated by his predecessor.

Bashiru said: “We have been there for many years. We have no issue with government so, why this? If they want us to pay money we will pay. We have maternity centre, public primary and secondary schools . If these facilities and our farmlands are destroyed, what will be our fate?,” he said.

Youth Leader in one of the farm settlements, Phillip Akinbamijo, said they have been seeing strange persons in the affected communities, claiming to be working for a Chinese company meant to clear the farmlands.

He said: “The past government has already stolen our land and sold it to Chinese and recently they have started pursuing us from the land. We have no where to go and eat if we are taken away .

“We are beginning the Governor Aiyedatiwa-led government to reconsider us and give us back the land. We are ready to give back whatever money the government has taken from the Chinese company,”he stated.

Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Kiladejo thanked the farmers for carrying out a peaceful protest and asked them to document their grievances and attach pictorial evidence for proper action to be taken.

The traditional ruler urged the farmers to to tread the path of peace for the issue to be addressed.

Telcos to Bar More Lines As NCC Insists on Deadline

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March 27, 2024

Nigeria’s Active Mobile Subscribers Hit 220m – NCC

Telecommunication companies will disconnect more Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) numbers not linked to National Identification Numbers (NIN) on Friday, March 29, 2024, the Nigeria Communications Commission has said.

The Director of Public Publicity at the NCC, Reuben Mouka in a recent interview said there would be no changes to the deadline for the next phase of disconnection

The NCC’s directive for disconnection is being rolled out in stages, with the second phase set for March 29, 2024 as previously announced.

The initial phase took place on February 28, 2024 while the third phase is slated to begin on April 15, 2024.

“We issued a publication that you can refer to. We specified certain deadlines and stipulated that subscribers who do not comply with the directive would be barred. And that has not changed.”

Mouka said at the last deadline on February 28, 2024, about 40 million lines that were not linked to NIN were barred.

MTN Nigeria reported that over 4.2 million lines were disconnected from its network after the February 28 deadline.

The NCC has reiterated its commitment to enforcing regulatory measures aimed at enhancing security and regulatory compliance within the telecommunications sector.

The SIM-NIN linkage initiative is a crucial step towards improving the integrity of subscriber data and enhancing security measures within the telecommunications industry.

The NIN-SIM linkage policy was initially introduced by the Nigerian government in December 2020. This directive requires all telephone line users in Nigeria to associate their SIM cards with their NIN.

In December of the previous year, the NCC issued a directive stipulating that all telecommunications operators in Nigeria, including major providers like MTN, Airtel, and Globacom, among others, must enforce complete network barring on all phone lines for which subscribers have not provided their NINs by February 28, 2024.

Barely two weeks ago, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project issued a warning to take legal action against the NCC if it did not revoke the directive instructing network providers to block the phone lines of individuals who have not linked their SIM cards to their NINs.

In an open letter addressed to the Chief Executive Officer of NCC, Aminu Maida, SERAP emphasised the necessity for further consultation and the establishment of an efficient process to enable Nigerians who have yet to link their SIM cards to their NINs to do so.

Dated March 9, 2024, and signed by the Deputy Director of SERAP, Kolawole Oluwadare, the letter condemned the directive to network providers, asserting that it constitutes a severe infringement on citizens’ rights to freedom of expression, information, and privacy.

Last week, the National Identity Management Commission and the NCC issued a joint statement unveiling a strategic partnership aimed at simplifying the NIN-SIM linkage procedures for telecommunications subscribers nationwide.

Both agencies reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing the processes involved and improving efficiency regarding the NIN and SIM card linkage initiative.

They acknowledge the importance of this initiative in bolstering security measures and enhancing service delivery across the country.

Last December, the Central Bank of Nigeria announced its intention to freeze accounts lacking a BVN, or NIN, starting April 2024.

It also mandated that all BVNs or NINs linked to accounts or wallets be electronically revalidated by January 31, 2024.

Since the issuance of this directive by the apex bank, deposit money banks have been actively utilizing their communication platforms to urge customers to update their NIN and BVN details.

In the circular by the CBN, it instructed banks to place a “Post no Debit” restriction – which prevents customers from making withdrawals, transfers, or any other debits “for all existing Tier-1 accounts/wallets without BVN or NIN.”.

Fed Govt. to Review Oil Firm’s Plans on Gas Flaring

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March 27, 2024

National Climate Plan: Nigeria To End Gas Flaring By 2030

The Minister of State for Environment, Dr Iziaq Salako, has said the ministry through the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency will be commencing periodic review of the plans of international and indigenous oil companies to ensure they stay on course to end routine gas flaring by 2030.

Salako said this in Abuja on Tuesday at the national stakeholders engagement meeting on methane mitigation and reduction in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

Methane, a potent greenhouse gas with significant warning potential compared to carbon dioxide, poses a major threat to the health and well-being of current and future generations and climate protection goals.

Reducing methane emissions, especially in the oil and gas sector will strengthen climate action and unlock benefits for public health, food security, and economic development.

Salako said practical steps are being taken to address methane emissions in the country.

He noted that “Collaborative efforts of government institutions have led to the development of methane guidelines. In addition, the Federal Ministry of Environment through the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency will be commencing the periodic review of the plans of international and indigenous oil companies to ensure they stay on course to end routine gas flaring by latest 2030.

“Furthermore, Nigeria is poised to embark on methane reduction projects that will enable Nigeria’s commitment to methane reduction and meeting net zero emissions by 2060. It is therefore reassuring to see initiatives such as the project methane mitigation and reduction in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, which is being initiated with today’s event.

“This national stakeholders engagement event is expected to serve as a platform to discuss the complexities of methane mitigation and reduction within Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. Presentations here today, will provide insights and overview on existing policies, implementation strategies, including key stakeholders involved in these efforts. Through rigorous research and collaborative efforts, we can identify gaps, challenges, and opportunities for effective national actions.”

The minister stated that President Bola Tinubu is committed to environmental sustainability and climate action in line with the multilateral environmental agreements that Nigeria is party to.

The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mahmud Kambari said it is necessary to address methane emissions in the oil and gas industry as the stakes and opportunities are high.

Kambari said, “Let’s harness our collective expertise, innovation, and resources to drive sustainable development, foster economic growth, and enhance energy security in Nigeria and beyond.

“As we engage in today’s discussions, let us be guided with openness, and inclusivity. challenge assumptions, and explore creative solutions that align with the principles of equity, justice, and environmental integrity.”

In his remarks, the Executive Director of the Africa Policy Research Institute, Dr Olumide Abimbola, noted that there is a need to address the pressing impacts of methane emissions on climate and environment.

Abimbola, who was represented by Mr Chibuikem Agbaegbu stated that methane, a potent greenhouse gas, poses a significant threat to both the health of our planet and the well-being of current and future generations.

“Recognizing this urgent need, APRI, in close collaboration with the Department of Climate Change, Federal Ministry of Environment, has embarked on a crucial project focused on methane mitigation and reduction within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

“This project, funded by the Government of Canada through Environment and Climate Change Canada, underscores the strategic importance of taking proactive steps to reduce methane emissions. Not only does it align with Nigeria’s climate action commitments, but it also offers opportunities to unlock co-benefits for public health, food security, and economic development, in line with Nigeria’s national and sustainable development goals.

“Today’s event marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts. It provides a platform for stakeholders from diverse sectors to come together, share insights, and chart a unified course towards sustainable methane mitigation and reduction in Nigeria. Through constructive dialogue and collaboration, we aim to identify challenges, explore opportunities, and pave the way for effective and sustained action,” he said.

Nigeria to Increase Crude Oil Production To 3MB/D- NNPCL

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March 27, 2024

Crude Oil Production, Price Benchmark, Possible–NNPC

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari has informed that the country plans to raise crude oil production which now hovers around 1.6million barrels per day to 3mb/d, adding that the plan includes increasing the nation’s refining capacity to over 1mbpd.

According to Kyari, it includes expanding NNPCL Retail outlets to over 1,500 stations across sub-Saharan Africa.

Kyari said in the period in sight, the state – owned company will grow its renewable energy portfolio and optimise payment of dividends to shareholders.

The NNPCL boss made these known during the 2024 Women in Energy ,Oil and Gas (WEOG) Leadership Summit in Abuja.

The theme was: “Closing energy gaps in Nigeria by investing in women.”

He said: “Looking ahead to the next decade, we envision a Nigeria propelled by the oil and gas industry: monetization of our vast 203 Tcf gas resources, increasing crude oil production to 3 mbpd, raising domestic refining capacity to over 1 mbpd, expanding our retail network to over 1,500 stations across sub-Saharan Africa, growing our renewable energy portfolio, and optimizing dividend pay-outs to shareholders.”

The Chief Group Executive Officer said NNPCL goals are audacious and accomplishing them requires a multifaceted approach.

One of the most powerful strategies at the company ‘s disposal is investing in women.

According to him, women constitute a substantial portion of Nigeria’s population and workforce, yet they remain underrepresented in the energy sector.

Kyari said as “at Q4 2023, women represented 18.6% of our total workforce and 23.1% of our leadership.

” This is largely attributed to the low level of participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics fields which is the major channel for our work force in the oil and gas industry.

“Studies have also shown that at the middle of the technical talent pipeline (which is middle to senior management levels), there is lagging progress for women which is greatly impacted by the degree of flexibility of work.”

He said at NNPC, the company has evaluated the challenges faced by women across different levels of our workforce and taken additional steps to address those.

He added that NNPCL focuses on several key strategic initiatives.

According to him, from coaching and mentoring to ensure our managers are effective leaders; to unlocking the full potential of flexible work.

Kyari said by empowering women and providing them with equal opportunities, NNPCL can unlock immense potential and drive meaningful change across the energy landscape.

Battle Of Eagles: Nigeria Fall To Mali In Marakech

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March 27, 2024

Former Nigerian footballer, Finidi George’s bid to become the permanent head coach of the Nigeria Men’s national team has suffered a setback after his side fell to Mali in the battle of Eagles at Marrakech, Morocco.

This came after the Super Eagles lost 2-0 to Mali’s Eagles. The Nigerian team came into the game on the back of a 2-1 win over Ghana’s Black Stars, which was George’s first game in charge.

Despite making a few changes to the side that won against Ghana, the Super Eagles had a slow start against the Eagles of Mali.

The Malians looked more energetic, willing to take risks while George’s men were just happy to keep the proceedings safe.

This lack of energy in Nigeria’s play would eventually cost them as the Malians took the lead in the 18th minute, although in fortunate circumstances.

The Malians took advantage of Chidozie Awaziem’s unfortunate pass at the back, which fell into the path of El Bilal Toure, who made no mistake in slotting the ball past Stanley Nwabali in Nigeria’s goal.

Nigeria tried to raise their tempo after Bilal Toure’s goal, but it was too little, too late. The Super Eagles failed to fashion an opening, despite continued dominance in possession in the second half.

The Malians remained compact in defence, and Nigeria’s failure to create clear chances would cost them dearly as Kamory Doumbia doubled the Eagles’ advantage three minutes from time.

This goal put the final nail in the coffin, as Mali claimed a stunning 2-0 win over Nigeria, denting Finidi Goerge’s hopes of getting the job permanently.

Nigeria 0-2 Mali: Lessons From The Battle Of Eagles

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March 27, 2024

Nigeria suffered a 2-0 defeat to Les Algles of Mali following their impressive 2-1 victory over Ghana days ago.

The game against Mali left a lot to be desired, and here are three things we learned from the disappointing result:

`Firstly, errors from Omeruo and Awziem disappointed Finidi George’s men in Marrakech on Tuesday night. The defenders left Nigerians missing the Ekong-Ajayi-Bassey combination at the 2023 AFCON. But some days are like that,

Secondly, Finidi George’s Super Eagles dream took a major blow as Mali stunned Nigeria. The jury is still out on Finidi George as the interim coach of the Super Eagles. Although he made some tactical alterations in the victory over Ghana, the showing against Les Aigles calls for further evaluation. The Nigerian Football Federation’s search for Jose Peseiro’s replacement is ongoing, and Finidi George is one of the contenders for the role.

Most Nigerians who had previously backed Finidi for the job will pause and that implies Emmanuel Amunike retains the tag as favourite to land the job.

Lastly, although Nigeria lost the game, Alex Iwobi was involved in everything positive for the Super Eagles, proving that his impressive season with Fulham can be replicated in Nigerian colors.

In addition to this, Cyriel Dessers failed to grab his opportunity and stake his claim for future invitations over two matches. He scored against Ghana, but it was from the penalty spot, and he missed crucial chances against Mali that could have changed the outcome for the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

The players will return to their respective clubs after the March International break – but there is concern about Moses Simon’s injury – hopefully, it is not as serious as the initial signs from videos showing the Nantes man in tears as he was taken off the pitch.

Up next will be qualification games for the 2026 World Cup and 2025 AFCON. By then, the Eagles will have a new head coach.

Victor Boniface Returns To Full Training

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March 27, 2024

Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface has made a triumphant return to full training at Bayer Leverkusen after a three-month injury lay-off.

Boniface made significant impact at Bayer Leverkusen following his $20.5 million transfer from Belgian club Royale Union SG. The 23-year-old striker’s impressive performances saw him amass 16 goals and eight assists in just 23 games for Die Werkself.

His stellar displays earned him consecutive Bundesliga Rookie of the Month awards and a call-up to the Super Eagles squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

However, his progress was halted by an adductor injury at the beginning of the year, which required surgery and forced him to undergo a three-month rehabilitation process.

Despite initial projections suggesting a return in early April, coach Xabi Alonso hinted at a potential earlier comeback for Boniface.

Now, in a positive turn of events, Bayer Leverkusen has shared images of Boniface training alongside his teammates at the club’s training ground, indicating that he has made a full recovery.

Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface has made a triumphant return to full training at Bayer Leverkusen after a three-month injury lay-off.

With his return, Boniface becomes available for selection in Bayer Leverkusen’s upcoming Bundesliga fixture against Hoffenheim this Saturday, providing a significant boost to Die Werkself. However, coach Xabi Alonso may opt for a gradual reintroduction of Boniface into the starting lineup given his extended absence.

As Bayer Leverkusen enters the final stretch of the season with eight fixtures remaining, they aim to secure the Bundesliga title as quickly as possible.

Additionally, their presence in the Europa Cup quarter-finals against West Ham presents another opportunity for success.

With Bayer Leverkusen remaining the only unbeaten team in Europe’s top five leagues, Boniface’s return will be crucial in maintaining their formidable form and contributing goals to propel them to victory throughout the remainder of the campaign.

Nollywood Actor Amaechi Muonagor passes on at 62

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March 26, 2024