The Federal Government through the Ministry of Police Affairs has formally received the West African Police Information System (WAPIS) platform and infrastructure from the European Union/INTERPOL towards enhancing security in the nation and West Africa region.
The official handing over ceremony of WAPIS Programme performed by the Interpol Executive Director Police Services to theMinister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Gaidam at the ECOWAS Secretariat Asokoro, Abuja.
The Minister stated that the move symbolizes Nigeria’s strong commitment and active role in regional security cooperation through the WAPIS Programme towards sustaining the WAPIS initiative, ensuring enhanced security for Nigeria and the West African Region.
Gaidam recalled that since the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between INTERPOL and the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the 16th of April 2019, Nigeria has greatly benefited from the implementation of the WAPIS Programme.
This collaboration has notably resulted in the renovation and operationalization of the Data Collection and Registration Centre (DACORE), inaugurated on the 26th of May 2021, strategically situated at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja. The Minister stressed.
In his words, “At the inception stage, we received an initial donation workstation, which significantly improved the technological capabilities. Recognizing the importance of interagency collaboration, we brought onboard key national law enforcement agencies, namely the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Immigration Service, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigeria Correctional Service, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Nigeria Customs Service, and the Nigeria Police Force as the coordinating agency”.
He said, as the Chairman of the WAPIS National Committee (WANACO), it has been his responsibility to oversee the effective implementation of the Programme and worked relentlessly to foster improved coordination and cooperation among law enforcement agencies, ensuring effective data-driven law enforcement operations across Nigeria.
Gaidam revealed that the Ministry of Police Affairs, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, has proactively submitted a comprehensive budget proposal to the President and the proposal is currently receiving commendable attention.
The Minister reinforced the commitment to ensure seamless and effective operation by personally overseeing the provision of stable and reliable internet connectivity at the DACORE, facilitating continuous and effective communication with remote locations.
He added that the Ministry recently organized a three-day WAPIS Workshop themed “Interagency Collaboration on Information Sharing among Law Enforcement Agencies in Nigeria.’ with key stakeholders and a communiqué presented to the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
In his remarks, the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Gautier Mignot pointed out that the Union played a pivotal role in modernizing the effectiveness of the security forces in the region adding that through the expenditure of 380 million Euros they were able to create centralized and secured system for police information at national and regional levels.
The INTERPOL, Executive Director Police Services, Cyril Gout appreciated the commitment of the ECOWAS and European Union for their commitment and resilience on the WAPIS project implementation.
He added that integration of several police Information systems represent a major stride that enable them to focus on transnational crimes, human trafficking and information sharing.
In a historic move, Niger has declared Hausa its national language, relegating French—a vestige of its colonial past—to the sidelines. This decision, enacted in early 2025, marks a pivotal step toward embracing an indigenous identity for a nation long shaped by external influence.
A Colonial Legacy Out of Step
Since gaining independence from France in 1960, Niger leaned on French as its official language, a choice that reflected colonial convenience more than local reality. Government decrees, school curricula, and media broadcasts were conducted in French, yet only about 20% of Nigeriens speak it fluently, per Ethnologue estimates. For the majority, languages like Hausa (over 50% of the population), Zarma (around 20%), and Tamajaq have remained the lifeblood of communication. This disconnect has often left rural communities and non-elites excluded from national discourse, highlighting the need for change.
Why Hausa? The Driving Forces
The elevation of Hausa is no arbitrary choice—it’s a calculated embrace of both heritage and utility: Reclaiming Heritage: By prioritizing Hausa, Niger is shedding the linguistic shadow of French rule. This echoes a broader African trend—countries like Tanzania with Swahili and Ethiopia with Amharic have long shown how indigenous languages can unify and empower.
Bridging the Divide: With Hausa as the national tongue, government policies and education can reach millions previously sidelined. For instance, a farmer in Maradi or a trader in Zinder—Hausa-speaking hubs—can now engage directly with the state.
Strengthening Regional Ties: Hausa’s reach extends far beyond Niger’s borders, spoken by over 80 million people across West Africa, notably in Nigeria and Chad. This could bolster trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange in a region often fractured by colonial legacies.
A Move Echoing Political Resolve
This linguistic shift dovetails with Niger’s recent political assertiveness. On January 28, 2024, Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso announced their withdrawal from ECOWAS, accusing the bloc of serving foreign interests over regional ones, as reported by AP News. Under military leadership since a 2023 coup, Niger has also expelled French troops and pivoted toward new allies like Russia. Elevating Hausa is thus part of a broader narrative—a nation redefining itself amid shifting alliances and a rejection of Western dominance.
The road to making Hausa fully operational won’t be smooth. Translating legal codes, retraining civil servants, and updating textbooks demand resources and time. Moreover, Niger’s linguistic diversity—home to over 10 languages—raises questions about equity. Will Zarma or Fulfulde speakers feel sidelined? The government has hinted at a multilingual approach, but details remain sparse. Still, the potential is immense: a more inclusive Niger could inspire other African nations to rethink their own colonial inheritances.
A fierce legal and political battle is unfolding in Nigeria as 11 governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have taken President Bola Tinubu to the Supreme Court over his controversial declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
The crisis erupted on March 18, 2025, when Tinubu, in a nationwide broadcast, announced the emergency rule, citing “disturbing security reports” of pipeline vandalism by militants and accusing Governor Siminalayi Fubara of inaction. Invoking Section 305(5) of the 1999 Constitution.
Tinubu suspended Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months, appointing retired Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as sole administrator.
The National Assembly backed the move via a contentious voice vote, sparking outrage over its legality and intent.
PDP Governors Strike Back
In response, the PDP governors—Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Enugu), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Udom Emmanuel (Akwa Ibom), Simon Lalong (Plateau), Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta), Darius Ishaku (Taraba), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), and Douye Diri (Bayelsa)—filed a suit at the Supreme Court on April 8, 2025 (SC/CV/329/2025).
They argue that Tinubu’s actions violate Sections 1(2), 5(2), 176, 180, 188, and 305 of the Constitution, asserting that the president lacks the power to suspend elected officials and replace them with an unelected administrator.
The governors contend the proclamation fails to meet constitutional thresholds—no war, no breakdown of public order—while also challenging the National Assembly’s approval process for lacking a two-thirds majority.
They seek a ruling to nullify the suspensions and restore Rivers’ democratic structure.
Opposition vs Ruling government
This case tests presidential authority in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, where opposition challenges to ruling governments have a dismal track record.
Since the return to democracy in 1999, no challenge to a presidential election outcome has succeeded, and emergency rule precedents have similarly favored incumbents.
The pattern began with the 1999 election, when Oluyemi Falae (All People’s Party, APP) filed a suit on March 15, 1999, at the Federal Court of Appeal in Abuja, contesting Olusegun Obasanjo’s victory. Falae sued the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), its chief Ephraim Akpata, and 57 others, alleging irregularities. On April 16, 1999, Justice Dahiru Musdapher’s tribunal dismissed the petition, upholding Obasanjo’s win.
In 2003, Obasanjo’s re-election was challenged by Muhammadu Buhari (All Nigeria Peoples Party, ANPP). Buhari approached the presidential election tribunal, but on July 23, 2003, four of five judges dismissed his petition. Unconvinced, he appealed to the Supreme Court on June 6, 2003; on July 1, 2005, Justice SMA Belgore’s panel validated the tribunal’s ruling, affirming Obasanjo’s victory after a prolonged 829-day process.
Obasanjo’s tenure also saw emergency rule test opposition resolve. On Tuesday, May 18, 2004—one year into his second term—he declared a state of emergency in Plateau State amid sectarian bloodshed.
On May 2, Christian Tarok militants killed over 600 Muslims in Yelwa, per the Nigerian Red Cross, sparking retaliatory killings by Muslims in Kano. With over 2,000 dead in Plateau since 2001, Obasanjo sacked Governor Joshua Dariye, accusing him of “lackadaisical” leadership and instigating unrest via a radio broadcast.
The state legislature was suspended, and retired General Chris Ali, a Plateau indigene, was appointed administrator for six months.
Then-Lagos Governor Bola Tinubu called the move illegal, but Dariye accepted it, skipping his office. Critics questioned why Kano’s Governor Ibrahim Shekarau faced no similar fate. Dariye returned after six months following a UK arrest and bail in September 200 4, facing no successful legal challenge—though a 2006 illegal impeachment attempt by six lawmakers followed.
Obasanjo struck again on October 19, 2006, declaring emergency rule in Ekiti State after the assembly impeached Governor Ayo Fayose over corruption—diversion of funds and kickbacks—installing Speaker Friday Aderemi. Labeling it a “usurpation of power,” Obasanjo suspended Fayose, his deputy Abiodun Olujimi, and the assembly, appointing a retired general as administrator for six months.
Amid EFCC probes of 31 governors, no effective opposition challenge emerged. Fayose’s ouster held, underscoring judicial deference to executive action.
The 2007 election saw Umaru Yar’Adua (PDP) face Buhari (ANPP) and Atiku Abubakar (Action Congress, AC). Both runners-up challenged the April 27 vote at the tribunal, which upheld Yar’Adua’s win on February 26, 2008. Their Supreme Court appeal concluded on December 12, 2008, with Justice James Ogebe’s seven-man panel ruling 4-3 that evidence of graft wasn’t sufficient for annulment, though it acknowledged electoral flaws—taking 492 days from election to final verdict.
Goodluck Jonathan’s 2011 win, following two years as president after Yar’Adua’s death, was contested by Buhari, now under the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). On May 8, 2011, Buhari petitioned the Court of Appeal in Abuja to nullify the April 16 election and order a fresh vote. The tribunal dismissed it, and on November 12, 2011, Chief Justice Dahiru Musdapher’s seven justices unanimously upheld Jonathan’s victory—188 days from petition to resolution. The 2015 election broke the mold: Jonathan (PDP) conceded to Buhari (APC), avoiding litigation—the only uncontested presidential race since 1999.
But in 2019, Buhari’s re-election on February 23 faced Atiku Abubakar (PDP), who alleged INEC withheld server results. The tribunal dismissed Atiku’s petition on September 11, 2019; the Supreme Court, led by Justice John Okoro, upheld it on October 30, 2019, denying server use and affirming Buhari’s eligibility—177 days total.
Tinubu ’s 2023 win (February 25) was challenged by Atiku (PDP) and Peter Obi (Labour Party), but the tribunal ruled against them on September 6, 2023, and the Supreme Court confirmed it on October 26, 2023—219 days.
Emergency rule cases—Plateau (2004) and Ekiti (2006)—under Obasanjo also stood firm. The PDP governors’ current suit, a constitutional rather than electoral dispute, faces a judiciary with a 0-for-7 record of siding with opposition presidential challengers and a 0-for-2 record on emergency rule challenges since 1999.
The PDP governors’ current suit, however, isn’t an election dispute but a constitutional clash, potentially giving it different odds—though the judiciary’s track record favors incumbents.
2027 stakes: Rivers and Tinubu’s re-election
The Rivers ruling could significantly shape Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
Rivers, an oil-rich powerhouse with the South-South’s largest voting population, is a political prize. Critics, including activist Deji Adeyanju, frame the emergency as a strategic move by Tinubu’s All Progressives Congress (APC) to cripple PDP control, mirroring his 25-year dominance of Lagos.
Political watchers suggest it’s a bid to offset APC’s waning northern influence and secure resources and votes for 2027, especially as opposition coalitions—like Nasir El-Rufai’s shift to the SDP—gain traction.
A Supreme Court loss could dent Tinubu’s authority, embolden the opposition, and signal federal overreach, alienating voters amid economic hardship (fuel subsidy cuts, inflation).
A win, however, would cement APC’s grip on Rivers, boosting Tinubu’s re-election prospects by showcasing decisive leadership—albeit at the cost of deepening partisan divides.
Tinubu’s Defense and the Road Ahead
Tinubu’s camp, via Special Adviser Sunday Dare, insists the president is focused on economic gains—rising reserves, falling inflation—not elections.
Yet, with a Supreme Court decision possibly due between October 2025 and May 2026 (based on historical averages of 191–286 days), the outcome will loom large over Nigeria’s political landscape as 2027 nears.
For now, the nation watches as Rivers becomes a battleground for power, precedent, and the future of Tinubu’s presidency.
Nigeria’s Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam has pointed out that addressing the challenge of terrorism requires a holistic and multifaceted approach among the security agencies.
The Minister stated this at the Stakeholders Conference on Security with the theme “A Path to Regional Cooperation” organized by the Ministry in conjunction with the Nigeria Police Force and National Central Bureau (NCB) in Abuja.
Gaidam stated that implementing the International Standard and good practice of sound, modern, integrated, and cooperative border management will go a long way in putting an end to this threat.
He urged all stakeholders to work collaboratively towards a shared vision of security.
“We can overcome these challenges and emerge as a beacon of stability and progress in Africa if all hands are put on deck”. Gaidam stressed.
The objective of the conference was to deliberate on the way forward to achieving a stable regional security thereby focusing on strategies to strengthen collaboration among Interpol member countries in West Africa with a view to fostering partnerships to share intelligence, expertise and approaches for combating trans-border crimes.
In his words, “ it is pertinent to state that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has worked immensely to curb the insurgency caused by Boko Haram, bandits and other transnational crimes. Some of these measures include biometric system at border checkpoint, integration of data analytics into border security operations and deployment of surveillance drones along critical border regions”.
The Minister also observed that despite government’s efforts to end the menace of terrorism and violent extremism in the country, the threat posed by terrorism has risen significantly adding that Nigeria was ranked 6th most impacted country globally according to the 2024 Global Terrorism Index.
He enumerated government” efforts to mitigating insecurity which include deploying the military, cooperating with international partners, implementing counter-terrorism legislation; adoption of a legal framework related to the West African Police Information System (WAPIS); provision of (WAPIS) terminals to allow security agencies access to critical information and Establishment of National Criminal Data Fusion Center (NCDFC) for the Nigerian Police Force.
The Chairman Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Salisu (RTD) represented by Director Police Discipline, Ferdinand Uchechukwu Ekpe, stated that no nation can afford to stand alone in the face of threats and insurgency, noting that a secure and peaceful Nigerian state is necessary for a secure and prosperous West Africa and the entire ECOWAS market area.
Also, the Chairman, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (RTD) represented by Director Intelligence Kennedy Zirangey, states that, the conference comes at a time the nation is faced with insecurity adding that all the catalyst behind these threats is drug usage by the foot soldiers perpetrating these crimes.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu, represented by Deputy Inspector General Logistics and Supplies DIG A. A. Hamzat, said that the convergence of illicit drugs, small arms, and light weapons in the hands of criminal elements continues to fuel organized crime and extremism, adding that weak border enforcement mechanisms fragmented intelligence sharing systems exacerbate the situation.
South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung has officially declared his candidacy in the upcoming presidential by-election, following the ouster of former President Yoon Suk Yeol.
Announcing his bid on Thursday, Lee pledged to bridge the country’s deep political and economic divides through bold government spending and inclusive economic growth. The election, scheduled for June 3, was triggered by the Constitutional Court’s upholding of Yoon’s impeachment over his controversial martial law declaration.
Lee, who lost narrowly to Yoon in the 2022 presidential race, recently resigned as chairman of the liberal Democratic Party to focus on his campaign. He is currently the party’s leading candidate, with Gyeonggi Governor Kim Dong-yeon also entering the race.
In a campaign video, Lee criticized the growing wealth gap and emphasized the need for government-driven investment in talent and technology to revive the economy.
“We have more than before, but wealth remains concentrated,” Lee said. “Private sector growth alone is no longer sufficient. Government intervention is essential to restore balance and stimulate the economy.”
Lee also underscored the importance of maintaining strong ties with the United States and Japan, while reaffirming that South Korea’s national interests must guide all foreign policy decisions.
Known for his anti-elitist stance and outspoken style, Lee remains a polarizing figure. His supporters see him as a reformist leader, while critics accuse him of populism and lacking realistic funding strategies for his policies. He is currently facing multiple legal challenges, including five criminal trials related to corruption.
The conservative People Power Party (PPP) is in disarray following Yoon’s removal, with internal divisions between loyalists and reformers. Several prominent conservatives, including Han Dong-hoon, Ahn Cheol-soo, Kim Moon Soo, Hong Joon-pyo, and Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon are expected to contest the party’s nomination.
Han, leading the anti-Yoon faction, also declared his presidential bid on Thursday, positioning himself as a centrist alternative who opposed Yoon’s martial law decree and warned against the rise of a “populist monster government” under Lee.
With the by-election set to determine South Korea’s next leader for a full five-year term, the race is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for the country’s democracy, economy, and global alliances.
President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to enhancing its partnership with the Czech Republic, particularly in the areas of trade, industry, investment, and technological development.
Speaking at the opening of the Czech-Ghana Business Forum in Accra—part of a three-day state visit by Czech President Petr Pavel—President Mahama emphasized the vast potential for mutually beneficial cooperation between both nations.
The Forum focuses on strategic sectors such as agriculture, health, and water resource management, fostering collaboration between private sector players from both countries.
President Mahama highlighted the historical significance of Ghana-Czech relations, which date back to October 8, 1959, when Ghana first established diplomatic ties with the former Czechoslovak Socialist Republic.
“Today, we stand poised to elevate this relationship, transforming our historical bonds into dynamic 21st-century economic partnerships,” Mahama said.
He stressed that the gathering of influential business leaders and government officials signified the importance both nations place on deepening commercial and economic ties, especially amid ongoing global challenges.
President Mahama noted that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents new opportunities for partnership, as Ghana positions itself as a strategic gateway to West Africa’s growing market of 1.3 billion consumers.
He also introduced his administration’s 24-Hour Economic Policy, a forward-thinking initiative aimed at boosting productivity, optimizing infrastructure, and generating sustainable employment across key industries.
“This policy aligns with the goals of AfCFTA and focuses on sectors ripe for Czech-Ghanaian collaboration, including manufacturing, automobile production, and agro-processing,” Mahama explained.
He welcomed Czech expertise in machinery, automotive components, and advanced agro-processing technologies, all of which could help Ghana create high-value supply chains and maximize its agricultural potential.
In healthcare, President Mahama praised the Czech Republic’s excellence in medical innovation and manufacturing, citing the Medivac Programme and the Kpone Mini Hospital project as key areas of successful collaboration.
On trade, President Mahama shared data from the UN Home Trade Database showing that Czech exports to Ghana totaled $20.82 million in 2023, while Ghanaian exports to the Czech Republic reached approximately $1.12 billion. He described this trade imbalance not as a deficit but an opportunity for growth and diversification.
Czech President Petr Pavel commended Ghana for its democratic strength, natural resources, and leadership in regional stability.
“In an increasingly unstable world, Ghana stands out as a beacon of stability and opportunity. We share a common interest in building on friendship, shared values, and sustainable partnerships,” President Pavel said.
The Forum concluded with a strong commitment from both sides to foster deeper cooperation, build lasting partnerships, and unlock the full potential of Czech-Ghanaian economic relations.
On a night when Inter Miami needed magic, Lionel Messi delivered—again. Facing a one-goal deficit from the first leg, Inter Miami overturned the tie in style, defeating LAFC 3-1 at Chase Stadium to reach the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals.
Match Highlights:
Early Scare: LAFC took the lead in the 17th minute through a well-placed strike from Cristian Olivera, extending their aggregate advantage.
Messi Masterclass Begins: In the 25th minute, Messi struck back with a composed finish, assisted by long-time teammate Luis Suárez.
A Gift and a Goal: Minutes after halftime, a goalkeeping error from Hugo Lloris gifted Messi a simple tap-in, shifting the momentum in Miami’s favor.
Sealing the Deal: Messi completed his brace with a calm penalty conversion in the 83rd minute, following a foul on Jordi Alba in the box.
Post-Match Reaction:
Messi was named Man of the Match, not just for his goals but for orchestrating play with veteran precision. Inter Miami now heads into the semifinals with a renewed sense of purpose and belief in continental glory.
Barcelona 4-0 Borussia Dortmund: No Messi, No Problem at the Camp Nou
Over in Europe, FC Barcelona sent a strong message to their Champions League rivals with a dominant 4-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the quarterfinals. Even in Messi’s absence, the Catalan side reminded fans of their continental pedigree.
Match Breakdown:
First Half Control: Raphinha broke the deadlock in the 25th minute, finding space on the right and curling in a brilliant shot.
Lewandowski’s Double: The Polish striker found the net twice (48’, 66’), showing world-class movement and finishing.
Yamal Makes It Four: Lamine Yamal, the teenage sensation, added to Dortmund’s misery in the 77th minute with a superb solo goal.
Key Stats:
Possession: 68% – 32% in favor of Barcelona
Shots on Target: Barcelona 9 – Dortmund 2
Pass Accuracy: 91% for Barça
Dortmund Captain Emre Can Slams His Team’s Effort
In the aftermath of the loss, Borussia Dortmund captain Emre Can didn’t hold back in his assessment.
“We weren’t aggressive enough. You can’t come to the Camp Nou and play like that. We didn’t fight. We weren’t brave. And in games like this, you get punished.”
The criticism sparked speculation about potential dressing room unrest, with the second leg now an uphill battle for the Bundesliga side.
Paris Saint-Germain 3-1 Aston Villa: PSG Overturns Early Deficit
In Paris, PSG showcased resilience by coming from behind to defeat Aston Villa 3-1 in their quarter-final first leg.
Match Breakdown:
Aston Villa’s Early Lead: The visitors stunned the home crowd by opening the scoring, putting PSG on the back foot.
Kvaratskhelia’s Equalizer: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia responded with a standout goal, bringing PSG level.
Doué’s Impact: Désiré Doué contributed significantly, helping PSG secure a two-goal advantage heading into the second leg.
Implications:
PSG’s offensive prowess was evident as they overturned the deficit, giving them a clear advantage for the return fixture in Birmingham.
Looking Ahead: Second Leg Fixtures
The second legs are scheduled as follows:
April 15, 2025:
Aston Villa vs. Paris Saint-Germain
Borussia Dortmund vs. FC Barcelona
Teams will aim to capitalize on or overturn first-leg results to secure a spot in the semi-finals.
In a developing situation that could significantly impact Nigeria’s energy sector, workers of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) have issued a strong warning of a nationwide shutdown over alleged irregularities and dissatisfaction within the management structure.
This growing tension follows internal reports suggesting unrest among staff over what they describe as non-inclusive and opaque executive decisions. Union representatives have expressed concerns that senior appointments are being made without due process or fair consultation, sparking widespread outrage among the workforce.
Workers Raise Concerns Over Leadership Imbalance
According to union leaders, the management structure of NNPC has become increasingly centralized, with a few individuals allegedly making critical decisions that affect the entire organization. The unions argue that this has led to marginalization, a lack of accountability, and reduced morale among staff.
“We cannot continue to allow a system where a few executives control decisions that affect thousands of workers,” one union official stated during a press conference in Abuja. “The structure must reflect fairness, inclusivity, and professionalism.”
The workers are calling for a complete overhaul of the executive management team and demand active engagement from the federal government to resolve the issue.
NNPC Management Responds
Responding to the tension, the management of NNPC issued a statement urging calm and explaining that all internal staffing decisions followed proper governance procedures. They assured employees that steps are being taken to address the unions’ concerns and foster internal peace.
Still, union leaders remain doubtful, pointing out that similar promises in the past did not result in real changes.
“We have heard words before. What we need now is concrete action,” a senior union representative told the press.
What the Nigerian Labour Law Says About External Recruitment
In Nigeria, the Labour Act governs the recruitment of workers, mainly focusing on regulating recruitment agencies and protecting workers’ rights. It stipulates that no person or association can recruit citizens for employment without the appropriate permits, but these provisions apply primarily to rank-and-file workers rather than top managerial positions. The recruitment of senior executives typically falls under the internal governance of organizations, such as the board of directors, who make staffing decisions, including the hiring of external candidates for top roles.
Regarding NNPC, the organization should review its internal policies on recruitment to ensure that top managerial appointments are made transparently, inclusively, and in compliance with legal standards. It is crucial to engage relevant stakeholders and adhere to corporate governance frameworks to address the concerns raised by workers about alleged irregularities in the appointment process. This will promote a fair and equitable recruitment process.
Stance of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) Regarding External Recruitment
The Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) of 2021 grants NNPC Limited autonomy to manage its operations, including recruitment, in line with corporate governance standards. Section 53 of the PIA transformed NNPC into a commercially driven entity, allowing flexibility similar to private sector companies, including the recruitment of external personnel for top management positions. While the PIA does not limit the number of external recruits for such roles, it emphasizes transparency, merit, and corporate governance in the recruitment process to ensure the selection of qualified candidates.
Although the PIA permits external recruitment, other regulatory frameworks, such as the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act, encourage the use of local expertise. Therefore, NNPC Limited is encouraged to balance external recruitment with the development and promotion of internal talent, fostering a skilled and motivated workforce. Recruitment for top management positions should align with principles of merit, transparency, and corporate governance while considering regulations that promote local content and internal career growth.
In conclusion, The unrest among NNPC workers underscores the need for greater transparency and fairness in the company’s management and recruitment practices. While NNPC has assured action, workers remain skeptical. Addressing these concerns will be crucial to maintaining stability within the organization and the energy sector.
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has officially approved the full implementation of the previously suspended Naira-for-Crude agreement involving local petroleum refiners.
This directive was announced by the Ministry of Finance via its official X handle in a post titled “Update on the Crude and Refined Product Sales in Naira Initiative” on Wednesday.
The first phase of the agreement a six-month deal involving the Federal Government, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), and Dangote Petroleum Refinery—ended on March 31, 2025. Due to the lack of renewal, Dangote Refinery has since ceased selling refined petroleum products in naira.
In its latest update, the Ministry clarified that the policy is not intended to be temporary, but rather a long-term initiative designed to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on foreign exchange for petroleum transactions. This update followed a key stakeholder meeting held on Tuesday to review progress and address implementation challenges.
The Ministry emphasized that the Naira-for-Crude initiative is part of a broader national strategy to support sustainable local refining, enhance energy security, and stabilize the foreign exchange market.
The statement read: “The Technical Sub-Committee on the Crude and Refined Product Sales in Naira initiative convened an update meeting on Tuesday to review progress and address ongoing implementation matters. The stakeholders reaffirmed the government’s continued commitment to the full implementation of this strategic initiative, as directed by the Federal Executive Council. Thus, the Crude and Refined Product Sales in Naira initiative is not a temporary or time-bound intervention, but a key policy directive designed to support sustainable local refining, bolster energy security, and reduce reliance on foreign exchange in the domestic petroleum market.”
The policy mandates that crude oil and refined petroleum products be transacted in Naira, with the goal of strengthening Nigeria’s economic sovereignty, encouraging investment in local refining, and reducing the pressure on the forex market.
The Ministry also noted that while the policy transition presents some challenges, these are being systematically addressed through coordinated efforts among stakeholders.
“As with any major policy shift, the Committee acknowledges that implementation challenges may arise from time to time. However, such issues are being actively addressed through coordinated efforts among all parties. The initiative remains in effect and will continue for as long as it aligns with the public interest and supports national economic objectives,” it noted.
The meeting was attended by key government and industry figures, including the Chairman of the Implementation Committee, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; Chairman of the Technical Sub-Committee and Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mr. Zacch Adedeji; Chief Financial Officer of NNPC Limited, Mr. Dapo Segun; Coordinator of NNPC Refineries; Management of NNPC Trading.
Also in attendance were representatives from Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigerian Ports Authority, Afreximbank, and Committee Secretary Hauwa Ibrahim.
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has raised concerns over Nigeria’s continued ban on the importation of 25 categories of goods, stating that the restrictions hinder access to the Nigerian market for American exporters.
The criticism was issued on Monday and follows closely on the heels of a move by former U.S. President Donald Trump to impose a 14 percent tariff on goods entering the United States, including those from Nigeria.
According to the USTR, Nigeria’s ban has negatively affected several industries, particularly agriculture, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and consumer goods. The restricted items include commonly traded goods such as beef, pork, poultry, fruit juices, medicaments, and alcoholic beverages—products the U.S. views as key exports.
“Nigeria’s import ban on 25 different product categories impacts U.S. exporters, particularly in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and consumer goods. Restrictions on items like beef, pork, poultry, fruit juices, medicaments, and spirits limit U.S. market access and reduce export opportunities. These policies create significant trade barriers that lead to lost revenue for U.S. businesses looking to expand in the Nigerian market,” the agency said via its X handle.
Nigeria initially introduced the ban in 2016 as part of efforts to reduce reliance on imports and promote local production. Items on the banned list include poultry, pork, refined vegetable oil, sugar, cocoa products, spaghetti, beer, and specific pharmaceutical products.
More recently, on March 26, 2025, the Federal Government announced a new plan to prohibit the importation of solar panels. This initiative is aimed at boosting domestic production in support of Nigeria’s clean energy agenda.
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