NewStats: 3,265,456 , 8,186,783 topics. Date: Sunday, 15 June 2025 at 03:50 AM 2p5r1z

Nlfpmod, where are we going in Nigeria, people are just been slaughtered like goats!

IDPs, soldiers, women, children among 200 killed in fresh herders’ attacks on Benue communities
Benue Killings

..we were tempted to move the corpses to the highway – Community leader

About 200 persons, including five security personnel and internally displaced persons, IDPs, as well as children and women, have been reportedly killed in a bloody attack by suspected terrorist herdsmen on Yelewata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area, LGAs, of Benue state.

The attack, which came days after the people of the area alleged received information of the impending coordinated attacks by marauders, left many others with varying degrees of injuries.

The invaders were said to have stormed the Yelewata in their numbers from two fronts and, after overpowering the youths and the Police personnel who stood up against them, opened fire on defenceless IDPs who were taking refuge in market stalls and the community .

It was gathered that several families were killed and burnt in their houses and in the Yelewata market stall, with many of the victims being children and toddlers who were slaughtered like animals.

While the attack on Yelewata was ongoing, another set of marauders, also in their number, besieged Daudu, in the same Guma LGA, but they reportedly met a strong resistance by the youths and security personnel, leading to the unfortunate death of some of the security personnel.

A community leader in Yelewata and former acting Chairman of the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB, Mr. Matthew Mnyan, who held back emotions as he spoke, said it was another dark day for the people of Yelewata, Daudu, Guma LGA and the entire state.

He said: “It started last night at about 11 pm when Fulani terrorists came from the Western part of the Yelewata and started shooting. So the police men and young people who were there tried to engage them. Suddenly, another group came from the Eastern part of the community, and they overran those trying to resist them.

“They killed our people, poured petrol on the stalls in the market and burnt them.
In those stalls, we had people who moved from places like Branch Udei and people displaced from nearby villages, who slept in them because of the proximity of the Police and soldiers there. And we learnt no soldier came out to defend the people.

“As of now, from the names they are putting together, and the number of families and people that were burnt and killed are running to over 200 now. They killed and burned people in the houses. They will pour petrol and burn the whole place where people were sleeping. We had a family of 15, some families of 12, men with their two wives, children and every one of them burnt. It is a terrible sight.

“I have asked them to search for the families and put the names together because some have been burned to ashes. Those who were rushed to the hospital were up to 46. So far, I learnt that about 20 have died and we are still putting the reports together.”

He lamented that it was a planned, unprovoked attack, adding that “for over one week we received reports from Nasarawa state that the terrorists planned to attack Yelewata, Ukoho, Ortese, Yogbo and Daudu. So they are moving to attack these places simultaneously.

“Fortunately, that same day, the ones at Daudu were dislodged, and we learnt five soldiers and police personnel were killed sadly. From the information I received, I think one of them was of the rank of a Captain.

“We learnt more than 300 terrorists were camped close to Daudu.

“It is heartbreaking, everybody is aware that the people want to take over Benue state. There are no two ways about it. They only want to grab the land.

“If you go to the east side of Yelewata, Fulanis have taken over the land and given it to some of their people to be farming. And they do not want anybody to go there. So this is a planned issue that is being executed. It was a coordinated and well-organised attack, which is why some came from the eastern part and some from the western part to execute the attack to make sure they bring the place down.

“I cannot understand why innocent women, children and toddlers were murdered in cold blood. Children had their necks slitted and were killed like animals. I cannot understand it.

“We had wanted to move all the corpses to the road, but I recalled that there was a time we did that and three persons were killed by security personnel.”

Also, the President of the Association of United Farmers Benue Valley, AUFBV, Chief Dennis Gbongbon who also lamented the carnage, blamed it on those he called “Lakurawa bandits.”

Gbongbon said the association received the report of “the very disturbing security threat to Tiv farmers in Yelewata community of Guma LGA, as suspected Lakurawa bandits and herders killed over 62 Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, and farmers and houses were burnt with families beyond imagination.

“The death toll shall rise as the search and rescue mission is on. Many were burned in stores. I am right here on the ground. 85 per cent of the victims are IDPs who ran from Antsa, Dooka, Kadarko, and Giza areas and took refuge in various stores in Yelewata market and among residents. Many have been hospitalised.”

According to him “the IDPs in Yelewata are still farmers. They only ran to take refuge there. While it is important to separate them, it would help us understand the deteriorating situation farmers are confronted with. Even having run from sacked homes to IDPs camp, terror still followed them unabated.”

Reacting, the Special Adviser to the Benue State Governor on Internal Security, Chief Joseph Har, who confirmed development, said, “I can not give an exact of it because I am not there physically, but I am aware that this ugly thing happened yesterday in Yelwata and at the back of Daudu. They were two different attacks. I cannot give the exact numbers because I do not have the details.”

Meanwhile, a military source who preferred anonymity confirmed that two military personnel lost their lives in the attack.

He said, “We lost two military personnel in that attack, but I cannot tell you more than that.”

Reacting, the Benue State Police Command in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent, DSP Udeme Edet confirmed the development but failed to state the casualty figure.

Part of the statement read “according to our information, it happened in the early hours of today, where suspected bandits invaded Yelwata town.

“The Police and Tactical Teams posted to the town and reinforcement responded swiftly to the attack and engaged the attackers in a fierce exchange, and some of the attackers were killed in the process.

“But it is with great sadness that we report that some individuals lost their lives and others sustained injuries.

“The Police, however, have not relented and are still in pursuit of the attackers and will continue to keep everyone safe.”

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/06/breaking-about-200-feared-dead-in-bloody-herders-attacks-in-benue/

The Senate’s spokesman, Yemi Adaramodu, has faulted advocates of part-time legislature, noting that it will endanger democracy and stop the lawmakers from the things they do for constituents, such as funding naming ceremonies.

He said this on Friday on Channels TV’s Politics Today programme.


According to Senator Adaramodu (APC Ekiti South), “If the parliament is on part-time, then it means democracy is on part-time. There is no democracy that derides its parliament and thrives.


Content creation can help tell Africa's story our own way, you don't need expensive gadgets...0:03 / 1:00


“The Nigerian parliament is not only for lawmaking; we do oversight function. We advocate for our constituents.

“It will just be bewildering that even out of the three arms of government that we have in Nigeria, it is only the parliament and parliamentarians that our people have access to. Like me and others.

“We go home almost every time and we are the ones when they give birth to a new baby, they ask for naming ceremony funds. When they are building a new house, it is from us they ask for assistance.


“So, if the parliament was not there, who do you expect that our constituents would run to?

“The parliament is not just to sit down at the plenary and make laws alone. And when we make laws, we follow it up.”

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/06/we-fund-naming-ceremonies-building-projects-for-constituents-senate-spokesman-faults-part-time-legislature/

Fourteen months after the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja was shut down for renovation, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alongside the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, inaugurated the rehabilitated facility on Tuesday, with pomp and circumstance as the minister renamed the national asset after the president.

Tinubu hailed the rehabilitation of the “very dirty, disorganised and uninhabitable” centre as a part of Nigeria’s larger vision to become “a hub for regional diplomacy, continental trade discussions, global partnerships, and many more thoughtful, well-outlined goals that reflect our Nigerian First philosophy.”



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However, there are concerns over the cost of renovating the edifice, which gulped the sum of N39 billion. Bar inflationary effects over time, the sum is 162 times more than N240 million used to build the centre in 1991 by the General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd) regime.






What N39 billion can do

Amidst disturbing decay in health and education infrastructure across the country, Weekend Trust breaks down the renovation cost, estimating the number of classrooms and primary healthcare centres the money – totalling capital expenditures of 12 federal universities or nine federal medical centres in the approved 2025 budget – could have been used to construct or renovate.

Benue killings: Communities, leaders speak out
Tonnie Iredia: Talking to ‘Mr point-blank’

Many communities in Nigeria, especially in underserved rural areas, parade dilapidated schools with blown roofs and cracked walls. Classrooms are without furniture, as pupils learn in crudely non-conducive environments, sitting under the trees or on bare floor. In communities where there are no nearby schools, children trek long distances to receive formal education in neighbouring villages where schools are located or shun learning outrightly.

Every fiscal year, the government attempts to respond to these precarious situations by committing certain amounts to renovating decrepit classrooms or building new ones. In the approved 2025 budget of the Federal Ministry of Education, rehabilitation of public schools was estimated at N40.5 billion; N5.063 billion was set aside for the purchase of teaching/learning aid equipment, and N100 million was budgeted for the construction/provision of libraries.

Weekend Trust reports that only N1,972,700,201, representing 5 per cent of the N39 billionn, was earmarked for the capital spending of the National Library of Nigeria in the current budget. Also, the sum is a little higher than the capital expenditures of 12 federal universities.

The institutions include the University of Benin, N3,608,643,195; University of Jos, N4,156,046,096; University of Calabar, N4,598,894,949; University of Ilorin, N2,092,215,470; University of Ibadan, N2,172,673,766; Federal University of Technology, Akure, N1,039,371,080; and Federal University of Technology, Minna, N2,605,817,308. Others are the University of Lagos, N2,169,395,270; the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, N2,202,871,372; the University of Port Harcourt, N1,763,861,874; Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, N5,270,991,010; and Bayero University, Kano, N7,117,712,322.

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Statistics from local and global health bodies have linked thousands of deaths, including child and maternal mortalities, in Nigeria to poorly equipped hospitals, particularly primary healthcare centres (PHCs) which are meant to provide essential healthcare services to the people at the grassroots. A 2022 report on the state of primary healthcare in Nigeria, revealed that 80 per cent of the 30,000 PHC facilities across the country fell below the standard. In 2016 alone, Nigeria recorded 376,039 deaths as a result of inadequate access to quality healthcare delivery, according to the Lancet Global Health Commission Report.

The 2025 budget estimates renovation and provision of equipment in a PHC at N75m-N150m. Construction and upgrading of a PHC in Jagindi Tasha, Kaduna State, is pegged at N90m, while building a primary healthcare centre in Igbemo-Ekiti, Ekiti State, will consume N125m. This means that even at higher estimates (of N150m and N125m), N39bn would renovate and equip 260 PHCs or build 312 new ones.


It costs N25m to construct a community clinic that can serve locals at Mwarawo Community in Adamawa State, according to the budget. And with N39bn, over 1,500 units can spring up in hard-to-reach communities that lack access to basic healthcare services, according to checks by Weekend Trust.

A further analysis shows that the cost of renovating the ICC is more than the combined capital expenditures approved for nine federal medical centres (FMC) in the 2025 budget. The hospitals are; FMC, Umuahia, Abia State, N9,635,655,307; FMC, Owo, Ondo State, N5,902,309,349; FMC, Markurdi, Benue State, N3,198,886,153; FMC, Asaba, Delta State, N4,600,840,888; FMC, Taraba State, N5,475,224,653; FMC, Nguru, Yobe State, N575,681,006; FMC, Bayelsa State, N2,141,500,528; FMC, Ebute Metta, Lagos, N3,910,909,779; and FMC, Jigawa State, N2,551,632,864.

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Also, N1,314,944,149 earmarked for the National Health Insurance Scheme in the current budget represents a 3.3 per cent of the N39bn expended on the conference centre rehabilitation, while the entire capital expenditure (N47,145,697,420) of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency—with the mandate to strengthen primary healthcare systems at the grassroots level and ensure access to essential health services in urban and rural areas—is 18 per cent more than the renovation cost.



Wike defends project

Meanwhile, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has downplayed those criticising the amount spent on the project, saying it was meant to build a centre of international standard that it was supposed to be.

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He said virtually everything at the centre, apart from its blocks, were changed during the renovation.

Wike, who was reacting to the critics of the project during the commissioning of the Apo- Wasa road on Friday, said, ‘’People are criticising the International Conference Center. You know, there are people naturally, they don’t have good taste. The only thing in that International Conference Center that was not changed is the block work. Everything in that Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Center, was changed.

‘‘If you love this country, you cannot criticise. It’s not about I wear only one shoe, telling people lies. It’s a lie. It’s not about, oh, I carry my bag. No. Nigeria, as a giant of Africa, must not only show that they are a giant, people must see what makes you the giant of Africa. Nobody that loves this country will criticise that International Conference Center.

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‘‘There’s one television, one media house, I don’t normally watch them but somehow, by spiritual directive, I had to turn on. I saw somebody, I don’t know his name, normally I don’t like to know people’s names, who don’t have anything to offer. He said, oh, they did not name the International Conference Center after somebody who built it. Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport was not built by Nnamdi Azikiwe. Moshood Abiola Stadium was not built by Moshood Abiola.

‘‘Another one is that, oh, it was built with N240 million. Which year? 1991. What was the exchange rate in 1991 and compare the exchange rate? People will just sit down for the sake of criticising. Look at the exchange rate in 1991 and 2025, and then compare.

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‘‘Oh, they built it with so so billion. So what? We have taste. We want the best for the country and the president has given the best for the country. If you did not do well to defend your boss when you had opportunity, it’s not our fault. You were there, they were hitting your boss left, right and center and you couldn’t defend your boss. I am here, I will defend my boss, and I have the capacity to defend my boss. If you want to die, I have a lot of land to give you where they will bury you. I am not afraid of that. After all, population is too high. So if you want to die, you die because you choose to die.

‘‘Why would you not commend somebody who has done well? You are not happy that they named it after Mr. President, go and kill yourself. I have done it and I have no regrets at all.

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The minister added ‘’Somebody said it is a misplaced priority; you that cannot win an election. He is telling us misplaced priorities. If you have priorities, Nigerians would have voted for you. It is not about social media. You say you will run an election; wait, 2027 is here. We don’t need to kill ourselves, when jungle matures, we will all know’.



Birth of ICC

The construction of the ICC was conceived to host the 27th summit of the Organisation of African Unity (now African Union) in 1991, in the wake of political turmoil in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the union’s headquarters where the summit is usually held. In his recently published memoir titled, ‘Journey in Service,’ General Babangida revealed that as the date of the summit drew nearer, Addis Ababa had become “strategically compromised” due to the raging civil war with rebels opposed to the communist regime of Mengistu Haile Mariam. Following predictions that the city would have been overrun or dangerously besieged by the summit date, it was advised that the event be postponed, moved to a different venue, or cancelled pending the return of normalcy to Addis Ababa.

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“We decided to embark on the building of what is today the International Conference Centre (ICC). The contractors agreed to an oil swap arrangement under which we would barter barrels of oil in advance as part payment for the financing of the project. We also needed to build a new dual carriage highway linking the airport to the city centre. In addition, residential accommodation for VIP guests alongside a fleet of limousines was written into the budget,” Babangida wrote.

Built at a cost of N240 million, the facility had aged over the years, until it was shut down by the FCT minister, Wike, in April 2024 for rehabilitation.

“It’s unfortunate, like I’ve always said; after that period, the whole place died. This was given to one senator, who was making money out of it but killing the edifice. We, of course, had to take a drastic decision… I’m happy with what is going on. Julius Berger had promised us that they were going to complete it. This is at the cost of N39 billion. We are spending N39bn,” Wike had said during an inspection of the rehabilitation work at the centre in March 2025.

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Renaming of ICC after Tinubu

The renaming of ICC as Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre by Wike has drawn the ire of opposition parties, civil society organisations and activists, many of whom argued that the former military president, Ibrahim Babangida, whose istration built the edifice, did not name it after himself. They also frowned at the trend of renaming public institutions after Tinubu.

The National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), Chief Peter Ameh, in a statement on Wednesday, said, “The brazen renaming of public institutions after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu exposes a disturbing focus on self-glorification over nation-building.”

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He described the N39bn renovation of the ICC as a “staggering misallocation of resources”, while critical sectors like education and healthcare in the FCT crumbled, noting that “General Babangida, despite overseeing its construction from the ground up, never sought to immortalise his name on this landmark.”

“In stark contrast, President Tinubu, whose istration merely renovated the ICC at an outrageous cost of N39 billion, has renamed it; the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre. This pattern extends to other public assets, including the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex, Bola Ahmed Tinubu Barracks, and Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic. Such actions reek of personal branding and a desperate bid to rewrite history through paint and concrete, rather than through transformative leadership.

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“The N39bn squandered on this unnecessary facelift could have funded a new, state-of-the-art national monument or addressed the dire crises plaguing the FCT. Primary school children have been out of school for three months due to underfunding and neglect.

“Area councils and primary healthcare centres have been paralysed by months-long strikes, leaving communities without essential services. These are the real emergencies demanding urgent attention, yet the istration prioritises vanity projects over the welfare of Nigerians,” he said.

Ameh further lamented that while citizens grapple with soaring inflation, insecurity, failing healthcare, and a collapsing education system, the Tinubu istration “appears more committed to immortalising his name than solving these pressing challenges”.

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“This is not leadership but a shameful betrayal of public trust. For context, N39bn is not just a renovation budget; it is a staggering leap from the N240m used to build the ICC from scratch. This gross mismanagement of resources demands ability,” he added.

This paper had reported in February 2025, how five public institutions, including those Ameh cited, were named after President Tinubu within 11 months, beginning with the renaming of the Abubakar Imam International Airport in Minna as Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport by the Niger State Government in March, 2024. The airport had only been named after Abubakar Imam nine months earlier, in June 2023, in recognition of his contributions to northern Nigeria’s literary, political and educational landscape.

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In May 2024, the National Assembly Library and Resource Centre was inaugurated and named the Bola Tinubu Building. There is also a bill for the establishment of Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages in Aba, Abia State, before the House of Representatives.

“In less than a year [as of February 2025], four public institutions have been named after President Bola Tinubu. This abuse of norms is rooted in the sycophantic culture that has grown in recent times. The president should put a stop to this, as he is signalling a culture that is highly unacceptable,” Seun Onigbinde, the co-founder of BudgIT, a civil society organisation promoting transparency and ability in Nigeria, had posted on X (formerly Twitter).

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CSOs raise conerns over renovation cost

The Executive Director of the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED), Dr. Ibrahim Zikirullahi, said spending N39bn on the renovation of a building originally constructed at the cost of N240m was indicative of the character of the calibre of people managing the affairs of Nigeria.

“The APC-led federal government since the era of Buhari’s istration has demonstrated unmatched prodigal tendencies in the management of public funds, and Tinubu’s government is taking it a step further,” Zikirullahi said.

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He said that incurring such a huge expenditure on the renovation of just one structure, at a time when schools and hospitals across the FCT are on strike due to the failure of the FCT istration to meet up with the payment of workers’ salaries and other statutory entitlements, underscored the degree of insensitivity of the current istration to the plight of ordinary Nigerians.

Also, the Executive Director of the Grassroots Centre for Rights and Civic Orientation (GCRCO), Mr Armsfree Ajanaku, said the huge renovation cost of the conference centre stands transparency and ability on their heads.

“What exact level of renovation requires such a huge sum? What were the processes for the procurement and execution of the renovation? What companies engaged in bidding for the project and what were the criteria for selection?

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“The FCTA needs to ensure proactive disclosure on these issues. Huge expenditure to renovate a conference centre comes across as a misplaced priority in the same FCT where teachers have been on strike, leaving children in public primary schools stranded at home for three months.

“We believe public funds should be expended in a judicious, transparent and efficient manner to directly touch the lives of citizens, especially in the face of unemployment and deepening poverty in the country,” Ajanaku said.



Centre must generate revenue, says economist

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An economist at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State, Professor Sheriffdeen Tella, said now that the renovation is over, the focus should be on ensuring that the centre generates income to cover the cost and subsequent maintenance.

“What is important now is that it should be able to generate income to meet the expenses spent. The government has already said that whoever is using it will have to pay. That is our main concern now because they have already spent the money. We don’t know the condition it was in before the renovation, even though we know contracts in Nigeria are always overinflated. To that extent, one cannot say whether the amount is right or wrong,” he stated.

Country Director of Action Aid Nigeria (AAN), Mr Andrew Mamedu, maintained that the decision to spend N39bn on renovating ICC ought to have been assessed through the lens of value for money, public ability, and return on investment, adding that the project raised questions about cost efficiency and transparency.

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“While we recognise that infrastructure like the ICC is intended to generate income through rentals and hosting of events, the scale of this expenditure, especially amidst widespread hardship and competing priorities demands greater scrutiny.

“At a time when millions of Nigerians are battling poverty, hunger, and insecurity, public spending must be subjected to rigorous cost-benefit analysis to ensure it directly contributes to the well-being of citizens.

“Infrastructure investments should never be done in isolation from the broader development context. The issue here is not whether the ICC should be maintained, it should, but how much is being spent, how transparently it’s being procured, and how such spending translates into tangible returns for the public,” he said.

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Mamedu said ability and not optics, must guide public spending.

“We urge the federal government to ensure full disclosure of the project’s scope, procurement process, and expected economic gains. Citizens deserve to know how their resources are being used and how those decisions improve their lives,” he added.

Also, a professor of Economics at the University of Lagos, Olufemi Saibu, argued that the renovation of ICC was a good investment in of its envisaged economic impact.

“The president has already said people would pay for using it and the minister also said the money would be recovered in 10 years. If the materials used in renovating and the engineers who worked on it were sourced locally, that is a good thing. We can be sure there was no case of capital flight.


“The money spent must have been captured in the budget irrespective of whether it is billions of naira. However, it becomes an issue if it is found that the money was misappropriated. Let us hope that the centre would be able to generate income and benefit Nigerians,” he stated.



https://dailytrust.com/fiscal-expenditure-n39bn-icc-cost-can-build-312-health-centres-1200-classrooms/

Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has responded to President Bola Tinubu’s comment about the state of disarray in Nigeria’s opposition parties, acknowledging the internal turmoil within his party, the Peoples Democratic Party.

He, however, said the party will sort itself out.

During his Democracy Day address on Thursday, Tinubu took a bold swipe at opposition parties, expressing amusement at their struggles.

“It is a joy to see the opposition in disarray.

“For me, I will not say, try your best to put your house in order. I will not help you to do so, either,” the President said.

Tinubu also dismissed claims that his government is scheming to establish a one-party system through orchestrated defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress.

In a response that came shortly after the ceremony held at the National Assembly, Saraki spoke to journalists and conceded that the PDP is indeed facing internal challenges.

He called on his party and other opposition groups to focus on self-correction and reorganisation, saying they must “get their houses in order.”

Saraki said, “I think we must take him at his words. I mean, he spoke well, saying that he’s not for a one-party state. So we must take him at his word, and he s a multi-party. So we are all on the same page.

“That’s why we are going around and bringing everybody to come around. So those who say they are under pressure, there is no pressure anymore. So, we’re all for multi-party, and everybody should get their house in order, as he said, he’s not going to help us, so we are going to sort our own house again.”

https://punchng.com/pdp-will-sort-itself-out-saraki-replies-tinubu/

Some residents of Ikorodu, a suburb of Lagos State, have appealed to the state government to restrict the Oro festival to nighttime hours, citing disruptions to free movement and commercial activities during the day.

The residents voiced their concerns in interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria on Thursday, lamenting that the cultural practice infringes on the rights of citizens—particularly women—and negatively affects economic livelihoods.

The Oro festival is a traditional Yoruba celebration observed only by male descendants who are native to the town. During the festival, tradition forbids women and non-natives from being outdoors or witnessing the Oro, with death cited as the penalty for any violation.

Mrs. Bukunmi Taiwo, a septuagenarian who has lived in Ikorodu for over 40 years, called for dialogue and community engagement to ensure that cultural observances benefit all residents without creating undue hardship.

“The world is changing, and our beliefs and practices must adjust accordingly for social harmony,” she said.

“Many families rely on daily earnings from petty trade. The imposition of curfews during Oro festivals places a heavy burden on already struggling households. I appeal to the Oro adherents to restrict their activities to midnight so residents can move freely and go about their livelihoods.”


Obinna Nweze, a trader at Ladega Market, expressed frustration over the frequent closure of markets in the town.

“This year alone, the market has been shut more than five times—twice for the Oro festival, others for the Kabiyesi celebration, the Iya Oloja program, or mourning someone’s death.

“You dare not open your shop because miscreants may harass or loot it. It’s emotionally and economically draining. We are just trying to survive.”

Legal practitioner Mr. Mustafa Mohammed emphasised the supremacy of the Nigerian Constitution, urging government action.

“Every citizen is entitled to fundamental rights, including freedom of movement. It is unacceptable that women and girls still face restrictions due to cultural practices. The government must intervene to ensure that no tradition overrides the rights and freedoms guaranteed by law.”

Mrs. Cecilia Oluwadarasinmi, a gender advocate, also voiced concern, noting that over 85% of women in Nigeria are active in the informal economy.

Although today coincides with June 12, a public holiday, the core issue is the curfew imposed by the Oro festival.


Just last month, the Magbo Oro festival fell on Children’s Day, denying many children—especially girls—the chance to celebrate.

While cultural preservation is important, it must not come at the expense of public welfare or gender equality.”

She stressed the importance of inclusive cultural practices to foster cohesion, economic empowerment, and sustainable development while reducing gender-based discrimination.

NAN reports that the Oro festival is held twice annually in Ikorodu Town—typically in May and June—with neighbouring communities like Igbogbo, Imota, and Agbowa holding theirs in separate months.

Despite its controversial nature, the Oro festival remains a significant tradition in Yoruba culture. Its adherents say it serves as a spiritual exercise to maintain peace, bring blessings, and cleanse the community of evil.

NAN


https://punchng.com/restrict-oro-festival-to-night-ikorodu-residents-plead/

June 12 Protests: Take-It-Back Movement Rallies In Lagos, Akure, Others Against Bad Governance

As Nigerians mark Democracy Day, of the Take-It-Back (TIB) Movement in Lagos, Oyo, Ondo and some other states took to the streets on Thursday to protest what they described as worsening economic hardship, insecurity, and anti-people policies under the istration of President Bola Tinubu.Nigerian cultural tours

In Lagos, protesters gathered under the Ikeja Bridge, chanting solidarity songs and holding placards to demand ability and improved living conditions.

Simultaneously, of the movement in Akure, Ondo State, gathered at Cathedral Junction, urging citizens to become more socially conscious and to assert their democratic rights.

In Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, protesters gathered at Mokola.

The protest was organised to sensitise the public about the importance of civic participation, including the right to protest and influence democratic decision-making processes.

June 12, which commemorates Nigeria’s return to civilian rule and honours the annulled 1993 presidential election, has increasingly become a day for civic action.Nigerian cultural tours

Many Nigerians have used the occasion to draw attention to the failures of successive governments to address widespread poverty, corruption, and insecurity.

This year’s protests reflect growing discontent over the economic challenges facing the country, including rising inflation, the removal of fuel subsidies, and high unemployment rates.

The TIB Movement has been a vocal critic of the current istration and has repeatedly called for reforms that prioritise the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.Nigerian cultural tours

Police presence was noticeable at the protest sites, but there were no reports of arrests as of the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Police Command has assured protesters and residents that their safety remains a top priority as demonstrators gathered under the Ikeja Bridge to mark Nigeria’s Democracy Day.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, said there was no cause for alarm, emphasising that officers were fully on the ground to maintain law and order during the peaceful protest.Nigerian cultural tours

He said, "Democracy Day celebrants and protesters at Ikeja Underbridge…”

"Adequate security on ground for celebrants and protesters alike. No cause for alarm. Your safety and security remains our priority," Hundeyin added.

https://saharareporters.com/2025/06/12/june-12-protests-take-it-back-movement-rallies-lagos-akure-others-against-bad-governance

Heads of Mission from the United States, United Kingdom, Finland, Norway, and Canada have tly called on the Federal Government to reform the 2015 Cybercrimes Act, warning that its misuse threatens freedom of expression and hampers the country’s digital and economic potential.

In a t statement on Thursday to mark Nigeria’s Democracy Day, the diplomats commended the country’s 26 years of democratic governance.

They reiterated the importance of free expression as a cornerstone of any democracy.

The statement was signed by Richard Mills, Jr. (U.S. Embassy), Richard Montgomery (British High Commission), Sanna Selin (Embassy of Finland), Svein Baera (Embassy of Norway), and Pasquale Salvaggio (Canadian High Commission).

We Are Due And Ready For Ijebu State – Iyalode Tobalase Obinrin Group0:01 / 1:01


We Are Due And Ready For Ijebu State – Iyalode Tobalase Obinrin Group0:00 / 0:00

Citing remarks by President Bola Tinubu from the 2024 Democracy Day celebrations, they emphasised that “diverse perspectives and viewpoints” are essential for democratic progress.

The statement raised concerns about what it described as the broad and vague provisions in the Cybercrimes Act, particularly after amendments were made in 2024.

It referenced an opinion by Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission, which warned of the law’s potential for abuse in the arrest and prosecution of journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens for expressing dissent online.


The envoys noted that while the Act aims to combat legitimate threats such as cyber fraud, an issue estimated to cost Nigeria $500m annually, according to the Nigeria Communications Commission, it is increasingly being used to silence criticism.

They cited the case of activist and author Dele Farotimi, who faced multiple cybercrime charges after publishing allegations of judicial corruption.

Although the charges were later dropped, the diplomats said the incident underscores how the law can be weaponised to stifle free speech.

The misuse of the Cybercrimes Act, they argued, not only erodes democratic ability but also risks damaging Nigeria’s reputation among investors and entrepreneurs.

“Misuse of the Cybercrimes Act undermines democratic advancement and civic participation. It also jeopardises the confidence of investors and risks deterring the innovation needed for economic growth,” they noted.

Ambiguous legal language around such as “false information,” “cyberstalking,” and “harassment” creates uncertainty that could deter digital investment and innovation.


They said, “The implications extend beyond free expression. Nigeria’s economic future depends on its ability to innovate and attract investment in the digital age. However, the Cybercrimes Act’s misapplication, even in a small number of cases, risks detracting from the innovators and entrepreneurs the government wants to invest in Nigeria.


“The Cybercrimes Act also contributes to uncertainty abroad about Nigeria’s legal landscape. Its vague provisions make it difficult for businesses and investors to assess legal risks, hindering investment in industries that rely on digital content. Reform is needed to protect both citizens’ rights and Nigeria’s future.”

The statement welcomed the commitment of the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, to review the Act in collaboration with lawmakers and stakeholders.

The diplomats urged the National Assembly to move swiftly, make the review process transparent, and involve public consultation.

“The undersigned Heads of Mission in Nigeria encourage Nigerian lawmakers to consider reform of the Cybercrimes Act to narrow the definitions of key such as “false information,” cyberstalking,” insult,” hatred,” and “harassment,” and ensure those definitions cannot be used erroneously to silence critics and censor expression.

“As friends of Nigeria who share the country’s strong commitment to democratic values, we want Nigeria to realise its potential as a democratic digital powerhouse. We would therefore welcome the Nigerian government amending the Act to strike a balance between protecting citizens while preserving human rights, including free expression.

“This will be a difficult balance to strike but it is vital for delivering what Nigeria wants: a stable and open democracy, and economic growth underpinned by investment,” the diplomats advised.

Highlighting international for Nigeria’s digital governance, the statement pointed to technical assistance being provided through the Council of Europe’s Global Action on Cybercrime project.


However, the diplomats expressed concern over repeated delays in the review process and urged lawmakers to prioritise the reform.

They lamented, “However, the deadline for the Act’s review has consistently been delayed, and we urge Nigerian lawmakers to make this review a priority, and ensure it is open to public consultation and debate.”

“Free expression is a precious commodity that relies on all of us to respect it. It is a fundamental tenet of Nigeria’s constitution.

“Nigerians, and any citizens of countries around the world, should be able to hold and express their views, even if those opinions are unpopular,” the t statement read.

https://punchng.com/democracy-day-nigerias-cybercrimes-act-threatens-free-speech-needs-reform-envoys/

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has called on Nigerians to rise against one-party state.

The party made this call in a statement on Tuesday as it prepares for its National convention in August in Kano.

It said that the event will serve as a pivotal moment to elect new national officers, strengthen internal democracy, and reposition the PDP as a formidable force to rescue Nigeria from the grip of the failed All Progressives Congress, APC, ahead of the 2027 general elections.


The statement added that the National Convention will prioritize merit, transparency, and inclusivity in electing leaders capable of confronting the APC’s misrule.

“Nigerians must therefore rise to resist the APC’s sinister plot to transform Nigeria into a one-party totalitarian state.

“The Tinubu-led istration’s economic policies have inflicted unprecedented hardship, with rising poverty, insecurity, and wanton killings plaguing the nation.

“The APC’s desperate attempts to stifle opposition voices through sponsorship of crisis within political parties, threats, intimidation, and attacks on democratic institutions reveal their fear of imminent defeat in 2027.

“The PDP as a party that stands for the rule of law, and the supremacy of the will of the people is gearing up to restore democratic principles in 2027,” it said.

It charged Nigerians reject the APC’s anti-people policies and the PDP in building a united front to reclaim Nigeria’s future.


According to the statement, the August 2025 National Convention will lay the foundation for a reinvigorated PDP, ready to lead the charge for a Nigeria where every citizen thrives.

It, therefore, urged party , other critical stakeholders, and patriotic Nigerians to rally behind the PDP as it prepares to elect leaders who will champion the aspirations of the Nigerian people.

“Together, we will defeat the APC’s authoritarian agenda and restore Nigeria to the path of progress, security, and economic stability,” it added.

https://dailypost.ng/2025/06/11/nigerians-must-rise-against-one-party-state-pdp/

THERE were indications, yesterday, that the pump prices of Automotive Gas Oil, AGO, also known as diesel and Motor Spirit, PMS, also known as petrol would rise in the domestic market, due to rise in the price of Nigeria’s Bonny Light rising by 3.84 per cent to $67.50 per barrel from $65 per barrel last week in the global market.



Checks by Vanguard indicated that four depot owners yesterday increased the price of either diesel or petrol to more than N1, 050 per litre and N869 per litre, respectively.

The depot owners include First Fortune, Chisco, Chipet and Master Energy. First Fortune increased the depot price of diesel to N950 per litre from N945 per litre, while Chisco adjusted to N1,050 per litre from N1,045 per litre.

Chipet adjusted the depot price of the product to N1,050 per litre from less than N1,000 per litre.
Also, Master Energy increased the depot price of petrol to N869 per litre from N867 per litre.


According to Petroleumprice.ng, the depot prices of petroleum products would continue to be dynamic in the coming weeks, due to some factors, including the instability of the global oil market.

It maintained that the oil marketers would also be compelled to adjust pump prices, should the situation persist in the marketplace.

On his part, National President of Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria, PETROAN, Dr. Billy Gillis-Harry, said: “The market is subject to changes. Currently, I think the volume of imported products has reduced, thus impacting the domestic market in one way or another.”

According to the National Bureau of Statistics, NBS, the prices of petroleum products have been relatively unstable in the past few months.


For instance, it stated that the average retail price of petrol increased to N1,239.33 in April.
In its report, tagged ‘ Motor Spirit (Petrol) Price Watch (April 2025),’ released on April 20, the NBS said the pump price rose by 76.73 per cent from N701.24 recorded in the corresponding month last year.


https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/06/diesel-petrol-to-cost-more-as-four-depot-owners-raise-prices/

James39:


Oh my goodness...

This is not useable again, until repaired. Something like this happened at Odo-Oba, the rail line fell into water. My granny was saved by a box of matches she bought to clean her ear!

Nlfpmod!

Photo: Mokwa Railway Line, Niger State, after Mokwa flood.

Credit: Wole Mosadomi

https://x.com/vanguardngrnews/status/1932340687363534991

Seven people were killed on Sunday when a motorcycle struck an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) allegedly planted by suspected Lakurawa insurgents in Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

The victims, who were returning from a Sallah celebration in Gwabro village, were travelling on motorcycles when one of them struck the explosive device.



The IED was reportedly planted beneath a tree commonly used as a rest point by military personnel during operations in the area.



According to local sources, six men died instantly, while one of the two injured girls succumbed to her injuries the following day.

French tourist dies in Benue hotel
Loyalty: After God, Tinubu is next, says Umahi
Confirming the incident, the Special Assistant to the Chairman of Tangaza LGA, Alhaji Ghazzali Rakah, said the victims were residents of Zurmuku village.

“They were returning from a Sallah visit and decided to rest under the tree, which is known to be a spot frequented by troops during operations,” Rakah explained.

“It is likely that the Lakurawa insurgents planted the device in anticipation of military presence.”

He said a bomb disposal unit from the Nigeria Police had been deployed to the area to search for additional explosive devices.

Sunday’s tragedy is not the first of its kind in the region.

A few months ago, several soldiers were killed in a similar IED incident while on routine patrol in the same local government area.

Security remains a significant concern in parts of Sokoto State, with local authorities calling for intensified counter-insurgency efforts to curb the activities of armed groups.


https://dailytrust.com/seven-killed-as-ied-explodes-in-sokoto/

Electricity distribution companies recorded a shortfall of over N202bn in their revenue collections for the first quarter of 2025, despite a rise in electricity billing across the country, an analysis of official industry data by The PUNCH has shown.

This was as data revealed that electricity billing by distribution companies increased by 106.68 per cent or N393.26bn year-on-year from the same period in 2024.

According to the latest report published by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, the 12 power distribution companies, also known as Discos, billed customers a total of N761.91bn between January and March 2025.

However, only N559.3bn was collected during the period, translating to a revenue collection efficiency of 73.4 per cent and a shortfall of N202.61bn or 26.6 per cent.

This performance is slightly improved compared to the same period in 2024, when the Discos collected N291.62bn out of N368.65bn billed, representing a collection efficiency of 79.1 per cent and a shortfall of N77.03bn.

However, the quantum of revenue lost in 2025 more than doubled year-on-year, and the percentage of revenue lost due to non-payment increased.

The performance indicates an improvement in volume from the total revenue collected by all Discos in 2024/Q4, which was N509.84bn out of the N658.40bn that was billed to customers. A detailed breakdown of the figures showed wide disparities in the performance of the Discos.


While some recorded moderate improvements, others still grappled with significant revenue gaps, raising fresh concerns over the financial viability of Nigeria’s power sector.

For instance, Ikeja Electric, which billed the highest amount among the Discos, issued invoices totalling N129.91bn but managed to collect only N101.2bn, leaving a gap of N28.71bn and a revenue shortfall of 22.1 per cent.

Similarly, Eko Disco billed N123.76bn but collected N101.51bn, a shortfall of N22.25bn or 17.9 per cent, while Abuja Disco billed N109.73bn and realised N88.1bn, losing N21.63bn or 19.7 per cent to non-payment.

Ibadan Disco billed N82.88bn but collected N61.73bn, losing N61.73bn or 25.5 per cent. Benin Disco billed N64.96bn, collected N52.31bn, and lost 19.5 per cent; Enugu Disco billed N55.56bn, receiving N44.95bn in payments.

At the lower end of the collection chart were Jos, Kaduna, and Yola Discos, all of which recorded alarming gaps between energy billed and actual revenue. Jos Disco billed N36.31bn but got back only N17.13bn, reflecting a revenue shortfall of over 52 per cent. Kano Disco billed N40.51bn, collected N25.5bn, recording a 37.1 per cent shortfall.

Kaduna Disco billed N24.22bn and collected N11.72bn, while Yola Disco billed N14.42bn and managed to recover only N8.2bn, representing a 43.1 per cent shortfall. Aba Power, the newest entrant among the Discos, billed N17.65bn and collected N9.32bn, losing N8.33bn in the process.

These shortfalls have once again brought to the fore the long-standing concerns over Discos’ operational efficiency, especially in the area of revenue collection. The data paints a grim picture of persistent inefficiencies in revenue assurance, particularly in the northern axis of the country, where collection rates are lowest.


In a recent media briefing, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, expressed disappointment at what he described as “chronic underperformance” by the Discos, blaming their inability to invest in critical metering, network upgrades, and collection systems.

“The Discos are not meeting expectations. There is a serious lack of investment in infrastructure and revenue assurance mechanisms,” Adelabu said. “This inefficiency is one of the biggest obstacles to ensuring cost-reflective tariffs and attracting investment into the sector.”


He said the government was reviewing performance agreements and warned that licenses of consistently underperforming DisCos could be revoked if there was no measurable improvement.

Energy experts have long argued that revenue shortfalls in the power sector threaten not only the financial health of the Discos but also the entire electricity value chain, including the transmission and generation segments, which rely on regular remittances to survive.

Amidst persistent complaints about erratic electricity supply, many Nigerians continue to grapple with poor power delivery, largely due to recurring technical faults on distribution feeders.

Recently, the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company said it refunded electricity credit worth N241.45m to 9,823 customers across its franchise areas as compensation for billing irregularities and regulatory infractions committed between June 2024 and January 2025.

The NERC report concludes that “efforts must be intensified by all DisCos to close the metering gap, improve network reliability, and enhance billing transparency” to improve trust and boost collections.


But unless the structural inefficiencies within the sector are decisively addressed, the issue of poor revenue performance and, by extension, unreliable power supply may persist well into the future.

Reacting to this, the National Secretary of the Nigeria Electricity Consumer Advocacy Network, Mr Uket Obonga, criticised the performance of power distribution companies, accusing them of gross underperformance and failure to comply with key regulatory requirements.

Obonga in an interview on Sunday, said there was no doubt the Discos were underperforming, particularly in the area of electricity distribution. He alleged that many of them were still engaged in load rejection, contrary to their mandated daily energy allocations.

“There is still the issue of load rejection by the Discos. Also, the Aggregate Technical, Commercial, and Collection losses remain high. This is clear evidence that the Discos are not meeting performance expectations,” he said.

On the recent concerns around increased electricity tariffs, the consumer advocate questioned the basis of the bills being issued, especially to unmetered customers.

“How much of these increased charges are even based on actual metered consumption? Are the Discos adhering to the approved energy caps or are they just issuing arbitrary bills in total disregard of the regulations?” he queried.

He further alleged that despite sanctions imposed by the NERC, some Discos were still violating the approved energy caps and misbilling unmetered customers. “I have it on good authority that some of these companies are still flouting NERC’s directives on energy caps, even after being fined,” he said.


Obonga maintained that the core challenge was the failure of the Discos to invest in infrastructure since taking over the distribution assets.

“After they paid the acquisition capital to buy 60 per cent equity, there has been little or no further investment from them. The 40 per cent held by the government has also not translated into meaningful improvement. No Disco has brought in the required investment funds for expansion and upgrade of the distribution network,” he stated.

According to him, this lack of investment has worsened ATC&C losses, revenue shortfalls, and market inefficiencies in the power sector. “If the ATC&C losses remain high, if revenue collection is poor, and if market shortfalls persist, then something is fundamentally wrong. It shows clearly that the Discos are not performing,” Obonga added.

https://punchng.com/discos-raise-bills-107-despite-poor-power/

Nlfpmod!

The Presidency has issued a response to former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi over his recent remarks questioning the utilization of fuel subsidy savings under President Bola Tinubu’s istration.

Amaechi, speaking in May at his 60th birthday event in Abuja, expressed concerns about what he perceived as a misdirection of national resources, alleging that subsidy removal gains were being siphoned into “private pockets.”

“If I were president, yes, I would pursue some of the policies they are pursuing, but ask what the failure is: the failure is that the gains of those policies are in their private pockets,” he said. “At one point, we were paying between four to five trillion naira as subsidy; where is the money now? If it had been injected into the economy, you would not be hearing complaints.”

In a detailed rebuttal posted online, Special Adviser to the President on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, knocked the former Rivers State governor, calling his claims misleading and politically motivated.

“More than two years after his primary election loss, it appears Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi has not gotten over the legitimate pain of defeat,” Olusegun wrote. He accused Amaechi of aligning with opposition forces and “resurfacing on the political scene” with “outlandish comments, claims and falsehoods against the current istration.”

Addressing Amaechi’s claims regarding fuel subsidy savings, the presidential aide said the ex-minister was fully aware of the fiscal damage caused by the subsidy regime, noting that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) had stopped remitting revenues and resorted to advance crude sales to cover costs.

“In 2022 alone, the FG’s subsidy bill was ₦4.39 trillion — nearly half of what Nigeria spent on petrol subsidies over a nine-year span from 2006 to 2015,” he said.

He explained that the real gain of subsidy removal was not in direct cash savings but in halting “unsustainable borrowing” and stopping the mortgaging of future oil revenues. Olusegun further revealed that since January 2025, NNPCL began remitting 50% of crude oil revenues to the federation , significantly increasing monthly disbursements to states.

“These tiers [of government] are not private pockets. Thanks to increased allocations, 33 states have repaid ₦1.85 trillion out of their ₦5.82 trillion in domestic debt — more than 30% repayment,” he said, describing it as a direct benefit of subsidy reforms.

On the issue of foreign exchange reforms, Olusegun defended the decision to float the naira, noting that the previous multiple exchange rate system cost Nigeria over ₦13.2 trillion between 2021 and 2023 in what he termed “FX subsidy losses” — money he said “went exclusively to private pockets.”

He added that under Tinubu’s istration, foreign reserves rose from $3.99 billion in 2023 to $23.11 billion in 2024, while over $10 billion was used to clear external obligations, including debts to international airlines.

“Nigeria is no longer on the IATA list of countries with blocked funds. This was possible due to increased FX liquidity,” he said.

Olusegun also accused Amaechi of turning a blind eye to his own legacy in office and warned that attempts to undermine the current istration with misinformation would not go unchallenged.

“This istration is cleaning up the mess it inherited, including from individuals like Mr. Amaechi, who now seek to play the saint,” the statement added.

https://politicsnigeria.com/just-in-presidency-fires-back-at-amaechi-reveals-use-of-post-subsidy-revenue/?utm_source=operamini&utm_medium=feednews&utm_campaign=operamini_feednews

A prominent Northern elder and public commentator, Alhaji Dabo Sambo, has warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that unless he urgently tackles insecurity and banditry, particularly in northern Nigeria, his chances of winning the 2027 presidential election will be slim.

Briefing newsmen, Alhaji Sambo, emphasized that insecurity remains the greatest threat facing the country, with lives and property constantly at risk.

He noted that restoring safety and stability is the primary function of any government, and failure to deliver on this front could cost the President re-election.

“Food is scarce in Nigeria and people are hungry,” Sambo stated, linking the growing food crisis to insecurity in the North-East and North-West—regions responsible for over 60% of the country’s agricultural output.

According to him, farmers are fleeing their lands due to banditry, kidnapping, and terrorist activities, causing a major drop in food production and rising prices.

He also pointed out the economic consequences of insecurity, including a weakened naira, high transportation costs, and rising inflation that are draining the savings of ordinary Nigerians.

Sambo issued a direct call to President Tinubu, urging him to resolve the insecurity crisis within the next six months and revive local agriculture within a year.

“If President Tinubu refuses to wipe out the security challenges, he will definitely not win the 2027 election,” he warned, drawing parallels with former President Goodluck Jonathan’s defeat in 2015, which he also attributed to unchecked insecurity.

“The era of carton noodles and salt distribution during campaigns is over,” he said. “People want security and food. Without these, they will not vote,” he said.

Sambo dismissed Tinubu’s political rivals as lacking credible plans to transform Nigeria, but insisted that if the president does not address the root causes of insecurity and economic hardship, even rigging structures will not save his re-election bid.

He added that President Tinubu must deal with the real enemies within his circle, saying the visible competitors are not the problem it’s the failure to act decisively on security and food production that could end his presidency.”

He further cited recent revelations from the U.S. Congress implicating the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in allegedly funding Boko Haram claims also echoed by Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa. Sambo called on the Nigerian government to stop pretending and confront these international influences head-on.

https://dailytrust.com/end-banditry-in-north-or-forget-2027-election-sambo-tells-tinubu/

Government need to remove Kara cattle market, Nlfpmod!

Some ram sellers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Wednesday attributed the high cost of rams to insecurity and low supply from the Northwest.

The traders, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) during a market survey in Abuja, said the low supply was also due to the closure of Nigeria’s borders.

Malam Ahmed Mai-Samari, a livestock dealer at the Dei-Dei livestock market, told NAN that rams’ supply to major cities was far below expectations compared to 2024, especially from neighbouring countries.

“You know we mostly get these animals from Niger and other nearby countries that share borders with us in the north, especially the moderately sized ones.

“Now, we have to rely solely on local supply from household livestock farmers, which is limited.

“Many traders have even left the business for more profitable ventures,” he said.

He noted that the price of rams had doubled compared to 2025, attributing this to rising transportation costs and the overall cost of living.

“A ram that sold for N200,000 in 2024 now goes for N400,000. Only the rich can afford it now.

“Prices vary depending on size: smaller rams cost between N150,000 and N190,000, medium ones go for N200,000 to N250,000, while large rams range from N350,000 to as much as N1 million,” he explained.

Similarly, Mr Sanusi Abdullahi, a roadside livestock trader in Dutse, said ram prices ranged from N200,000 to N700,000.

He added that sourcing the animals locally had been stressful and costly due to limited access from Niger Republic, likely caused by ongoing political tensions.

“I and my boys had to go from village to village across different states, gather the rams, and transport them here. It hasn’t been easy,” he said.

On sales, Abdullahi revealed he had sold only seven out of about 120 rams in two days, though he remained hopeful of selling at least half before Sallah, even at minimal profit.

In Bwari, another roadside trader, Malam Mustapha Aminu, popularly known as “Biggie”, also lamented low patronage, blaming it on inflation and economic hardship.

According to him, while many Muslims wish to participate in the Eid el-Kabir sacrifice, most can no longer afford it.

“Even though the cheapest ram at my stand goes for N100,000, only a few people have bought so far. This time last year, I had sold nearly all my stock.

“Things were tough then too, but this year is worse. Still, we hope sales will pick up closer to Sallah,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mr Hameed Raji, a buyer in Bwari, said he had opted for a goat instead of a ram due to the high cost.

He explained that he bought an average-sized goat for N70,000, which he planned to slaughter for his family and friends.

Similarly, Mrs Rukayya Abdullahi said she and her husband chose to buy and slaughter three big chickens at N20,000 each instead of a ram.

“This will not only serve our visitors but also save us from borrowing money to buy a ram.

“By Allah’s grace, we hope to afford a ram next year,” she said.

Eid el-Kabir is celebrated globally by Muslim faithful and involves the slaughter of rams as part of worship, symbolising sacrifice and sharing meals with loved ones. (NAN).

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/06/sallah-ram-prices-surge-amid-insecurity-low-supply/

, can opposition do same in 2027!

SEOUL, South Korea — South Korea’s center-left Lee Jae-myung was declared president Wednesday after winning a snap election, taking the helm of a nation deeply divided after his predecessor’s disastrous attempt to declare martial law.

Lee won a thumping victory over conservative Kim Moon-soo, of disgraced ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol’s former party, with his term beginning immediately after the National Election Commission certified the vote tally early Wednesday.

In a regular presidential election, South Korea allows for a months-long transition period — but as Lee’s victory came in a snap election after Yoon’s impeachment, his term began right away.

“The National Election Commission hereby declares Lee Jae-myung of the Democratic Party as the elected president,” National Election Commission chairperson Roh Tae-ak said early Wednesday.

Kim had conceded hours earlier, as final votes were still being counted. Official results showed he had no chance of winning.

Lee assumes office with a bulging in-tray, from sluggish growth and a global trade war to mounting concerns over military ties between nuclear-armed Pyongyang and Moscow.

He also faces the challenge of leading a nation still reeling from the turmoil sparked by Yoon’s martial law declaration in December and the rise of the far right in its aftermath — a development experts say has deeply shaken the country’s collective sense of democracy.

In a speech to ers early Wednesday, Lee urged South Koreans to move “forward with hope and make a fresh start from this moment on.”

“Though we may have clashed for a while, even those who did not us are still fellow citizens of the Republic of Korea,” he said.

He also promised to “pursue dialogue, communication, and cooperation” with North Korea, with whom the South remains technically at war, “to find a path toward peaceful coexistence and shared prosperity.”

Lee is expected to start his first day with a traditional phone briefing from the military’s top commander, formally confirming the transfer of operational control of the country.

He is then likely to visit the National Cemetery, a longstanding tradition observed by his predecessors, including Yoon.

A modest inauguration ceremony will likely follow at the National Assembly — the same site where Yoon deployed armed troops on the night he attempted to declare martial law.

Blue House calling?
It will be a muted affair with just a few hundred guests expected to attend, in contrast to the large outdoor events held after regularly scheduled elections, which often attract tens of thousands.

The new leader will then head to the presidential office to begin naming key cabinet .

Disgraced ex-president Yoon moved the seat of power from the traditional Blue House to a hastily converted government building in Yongsan, which Lee has previously said he would not use.

The focus will be on who is tapped to serve as the presidential chief of staff, prime minister, and director of the National Intelligence Service.

The day is expected to end with a flurry of congratulatory phone calls from world leaders, with US President Donald Trump likely to be the first on the line.

For many voters, like Noh Min-young, 20, who spent months in the street protesting Yoon’s martial law declaration, the election was a relief and would allow the country to get back on track.

“I’m just glad now. There’s no risk of the result being overturned, and the margin is enough not to lose momentum when it comes to clearing up the insurrection or implementing policies,” she told AFP.

But experts warned that Lee’s success in this election — after he lost to Yoon in 2022 — was due as much to his rivals’ failings as his own strengths, with Kim hampered by political infighting and a fractured right-wing vote, split by a third-party candidate.

Lee is also likely to herald a major shift in South Korea’s foreign policy, Gi-Wook Shin, a sociology professor at Stanford University, told AFP.

“Lee is expected to prioritize the alliance with the United States while simultaneously seeking engagement with both China and North Korea,” he said.

That marks a departure from the policies of predecessors, including Yoon, “who largely focused on North Korea and the United States, respectively.”

https://www.msn.com/en-ph/news/other/south-korea-s-new-president-lee-takes-power-after-election-win/

Refill stations, conversion centers, other facilities grossly inadequate
•CNG buses, other equipments rot in parking lots
•Some private s reverting to petrol
•State-by-State paints same picture
•Why gas couldn’t reach North
•Current pain is temporary – Presidential CNG Initiative


By Soni Daniel, Emma Ujah, Emma Amaize, Ediri Ejoh, Miram Eko, Wole Mosadomi, Bashir Bello, Ademola Akinyemi, Umar Yusuf, Ndahi Marama, Marie-Therese Nanlong, Peter Duru, Charly Agwam, Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo, Haruna Aliyu, Femi Bolaji, Musa Ubandawaki, Boluwaji Obahopo, Salisu Idris, Samuel Oyadongha, Jimitota Onoyume, Egufe Yafugborhi, Ike Uchechukwu, Chioma Onuegbu, and Ochuko Akuopha.




There are indications that the Federal Government’s (FG) scheme, designed to transition Nigeria’s vehicle transportation service industry away from fossil fuel (petrol) to gas, has encountered a major hitch.

Industry stakeholders told Financial Vanguard that the initial enthusiasm has been overtaken by frustration due to supply shortages and insufficient infrastructure.

They said that inadequate refill facilities and the gas itself across the country have become the s’ and investors’ nightmare in recent times.

The scarcity of the product is coming against the backdrop of adequate supply of petrol across all parts of Nigeria, a situation which has now started luring the gas s back to re-converting their vehicles to petrol from gas.

In several states, there is virtually zero presence of the CNG scheme and in others with physical presence including availability of conversion kits, in-built autogas vehicles already supplied and refill stations already set up, but level of activities are either non-existence or skeletal.

However, the office of the Presidential CNG Initiative, as well as key stakeholders, while acknowledging the existence of these challenges, said the programme has not derailed, adding that efforts are underway to restore progress.

FG’s incentives
The Federal Government had put in place several incentives to encourage private business organisations to go into the CNG business, including the removal of Value Added Tax (VAT) on CNG equipment and infrastructure and Liquified Petroleum Gas, including conversion kits.


On May 13, 2024 the President, Bola Tinubu, directed all Federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies to purchase CNG vehicles and other steps for its widespread use.

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The government even paid for kits for free conversion of one million commercial vehicles across the country. The government’s position is that with the free conversion and a low CNG price, public transportation would become cheaper for ordinary Nigerians.

But investigations have revealed that the reluctance of the government to approve some licences for the establishment of CNG stations is part of the causes of scarcity at the few existing refill stations in Abuja and some other locations across the country.

Some of the s who spoke to Financial Vanguard also alleged sabotage.

A truck driver stated: “I believe there are some people in the downstream segment as operators and possibly regulatory agencies that are benefitting from petrol importation and they know that if more people convert to CNG and they can buy it easily, they will abandon petrol. If they abandon petrol, then they cannot be making that money again.

“President Tinubu is the one that said people should convert to CNG. So after we have converted to CNG, why can’t we buy it easily? If the stations are not enough, why will the people in government refuse to allow more stations to be established”?

Another commercial taxi operator said: “Many commercial vehicles have converted to CNG. Even many private car owners also converted to CNG but now, they are getting discouraged because of the long queues at gas stations.

“As a result of the long queues, many of them cannot spend four, five or six hours to buy CNG. They don’t have such time. So they are now reverting to petrol. That is not the way to go.”


A truck driver of one of the largest cement companies in the country told Financial Vanguard in Abuja weekend, that he and his colleagues spend an average of six days to refill their CNG-powered trucks at refill stations.

He stated: “Every time you this road, you will see our trucks in the queue. It is not heavy-duty trucks only. Even car owners and taxi operators suffer with us. You can see things for yourself. Look at the long queues (point at both trucks and cars in their different queues).”

“I am not happy at all. When we are coming, our company gives us N20, 000 each. Imagine being given N20, 000 and then you spend six days in the queue just to buy gas. That money is not enough at all. We are suffering.”

Abuja/Nasarawa situation
The ever-busy Abuja-Keffi Road, with an approximately 38-kilometre distance, has over 49 petrol stations situated on both sides of the road. Unfortunately, on the same road, there is only one CNG station.

The only CNG refill station, situated at Ado, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, is currently non-functional. It was launched just some eight months ago to provide substantial savings for drivers and commuters, since CNG is significantly cheaper than petrol.

Some motorists said they would have converted their vehicles to CNG but expressed frustration over lack of conversion centres, coupled with the non- functional CNG refill stations on the road.

The only functional CNG station in Nasarawa State is the Greenville’s Liquefied Natural Gas/Compressed Natural Gas (LNG/CNG) station, located in Lafia, the state capital.

A commercial driver, Adamu Suleiman, expressed frustration at the development, saying he would have been using CNG if refill stations were established along the road like the petrol refuel stations.

“I contemplated converting my vehicle sometimes last year when this initiative was launched by President Bola Tinubu but some of my friends whom I discussed the issue with asked me to hold on a little before taking the step. When I look back today, I thank them for the wise advice because where would I have been getting the CNG?”.

John Ebiam, another commercial driver who plies the Makurdi-Abuja route said not heeding the advice to convert his vehicle was one of the best decisions he has ever taken.

“Where are the CNG refill stations?” He asked rhetorically.
“I would have been crying like some of my friends are doing now.”
The frustration of long hours at the CNG stations has forced Mr. Longe Lege, a public servant in Abuja, to revert to petrol.
He said that his busy schedule does not give him the luxury of spending five to six hours at the gas station.

His words, “It’s affordable and saves a lot of costs compared to petrol. I used to spend between N50,000 and N60,000 per week on petrol to go to work but with CNG, it’s about N15,000. But the major challenge currently is the availability of gas.

“The 10 CNG stations servicing Abuja is grossly inadequate to meet the huge demand of CNG s. Some CNG s doing Bolt or Uber taxi services even sleep at gas stations just to buy gas. Due to the stress of getting gas, I have not been buying gas for a while now because I honestly do not have the patience to spend 4 hours every two days to buy gas.”
Ahmed Kunle, a taxi operator in Abuja disclosed that he spent eight hours at a CNG station last week.

He said, however, that the average time on the queue at the Mobil Station by the Dunamis Dome is three to four hours.
Financial Vanguard findings revealed that in the whole of Abuja, there are only 11 CNG filling stations and 45 in the whole country.

Out of the 11 in Abuja, only three are reliable, leaving CNG vehicle owners in frustration and regrets, with some now abandoning the CNG and reverting to running their vehicles on petrol and diesel.

Lagos

When Vanguard visited some stations in Lagos state, including Ikeja, Mushin and Apapa, CNG product was not dispensed as the attendant said they were out of stock asking us to try other stations or come back some days later.

Sources close to NIPCO refill stations, however, argued that efforts were already being made to mitigate the crisis.
“Yes, I can confirm the challenges in the availability of the product, which sometimes happens in every product supply or delivery. There are so many reasons for such, it could be a delay at the port of clearing or shipment of this product”.

Vanguard also gathered that the product kits at various locations in Lagos are experiencing scarcity. A source in one of the government approved outlets, confirmed lack of equipment to install and convert to CNG operating vehicles.

According to him, “For while now, we don’t have the kits from the government source. However, we have some to sell from our own stock which is not like the subsidized equipment from the government. I don’t know why it is not coming in at the moment but that is the reality of things across our outlets.”

South East
In the South East, the situation appears more surprising, that nearly two years after the initiative was launched they are just about starting to get on board.

In Enugu State, the government has just procured 50 CNG buses expecting the next batch of another 50 to get started.
The first 50 are currently parked at the Michael Ìkpara Square.

The State Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Obi Ozor, said the buses would be inaugurated and deployed on the roads soon.

“You have seen buses for the mass transit programme across the state. 50 of them are already parked at Okpara Square, and an additional 50 will be ing that fleet in the next few weeks. The 100 of them will be going into commercial operations before the end of this month, which is the second year anniversary.”

He disclosed that the government plans to bring in the electric and CNG automotive manufacturing plant into Enugu.
In Ebonyi State, the government has just woken up to embrace the CNG initiative but yet to go into the actual services.
The Secretary to the Ebonyi State Government (SSG) Prof. Grace Umezuruike, said the government has purchased some CNG luxury buses. She did not give the number so far purchased.

She said the state governent approved that the buses will be plying various routes to transport civil servants to work and students to school free of charge.

It is even worse in Abia State as the state is said not to be interested in buying CNG buses, but will rather roll out electric buses soon.

Commissioner for Transportation, Abia State, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, said, “We are not buying CNG buses now but we will roll out electric vehicles by end of July for Urban Mass Transit scheme”.

He, however, said that “the state is open to any investor who wants to invest in CNG buses in the state.”
“We will provide a conducive business environment for any investor.”

In Anambra State, it’s a different model as the private sector has already led the initiative with the Nnewi-based Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company which has fully embraced it. A section of the automobile firm’s complex is designated Innoson CNG Vehicles Manufacturing and Conversion Center, and it is fully operational.

Innoson introduced the technology in 2024 and has been producing CNG vehicles.

But surprisingly, the citizens of the state are not using the CNG vehicles just as the state government appears uninterested.

Among organizations that have patronized Innoson CNG Vehicles are the Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, and others based outside Anambra State.

Apart from Innoson, another company is expected to commence the production of CNG vehicles at Umunya in Oyi local government area of the state.

South South
In the South South, CNG Initiative appears strange, despite being the nation’s gas hub.

There are no CNG buses in Delta, Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, and Cross-Rivers, according to vehicle drivers, residents, and labour leaders in the region who spoke to Financial Vanguard.

They said the FG’s CNG program has not taken off in the region.

Comrade John Angese, Secretary, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Bayelsa State, said: “The policy is not running as expected. While stakeholders, including the labour organizations, applauded the initiative, we thought it would have trickled down to states, but since the program was launched, it has ended where it was launched.

“Many states have not received CNG buses from the federal government, including Bayelsa State. There has been no report of any such vehicle in Bayelsa.

“And I want to say the CNG project of the federal government has not succeeded here in Bayelsa State”.

Comrade Alagoa Morris, ex-secretary of the Civil Liberties Organisation, Bayelsa State, said: “As far as Bayelsa State is concerned, I am yet to hear of any transporter utilizing the benefits envisaged to be derived from the CNG policy.
“The only area the CNG featured somehow is in the aspect where some generator owners tried to convert from fuel to gas. And for most people, the fear of the unknown has prevented them from converting, except that the generators originally used gas. I also decided not to convert to gas.”

Comrade Julius Laye, Chairman of Bayelsa State Trade Union Congress (TUC), said, “The policy has not impacted Nigerians. Other than hearing about it, I haven’t seen one in Bayelsa. In addition to allowing manufacturers to oversupply the market, soft loans should be provided to local producers, such as Innoson Motors, so that Nigerians can buy them.”

A resident of Yenagoa, Bayelsa state capital, Mr. Samuel Owolabi, said, “The Bayelsa government appears unenthusiastic about promoting CNG, and its absence is noticeable.”

The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Bayelsa State said it has neither seen nor received the federal government’s CNG buses in the state.

A top official of the NURTW, Ekeki Park, Yenagoa branch, who pleaded anonymity, asked, “What is a CNG bus? From whom and from where? We have not seen anything or received any from the federal government.”

Most vehicle owners told our reporter that they were hearing about the CNG buses for the first time and didn’t know what they looked like.

In Delta State, there is no evidence of the realization of the CNG policy.

Across the state, there are no CNG buses, as the people still rely on petrol-dependent vehicles as their means of transportation.

Chairman of the state chapter of Trade Union Congress, TUC, Mr. Bolum Martin, said the federal government had not fulfilled what it promised.

A vehicle owner, Mr. Osekene Gabriel, asserted: “Yes, it is a good policy that the president has initiated, but in reality, Deltans have not felt the impact of the policy.”

Another vehicle owner in the state, Mr. Fred Emudaye, said, “We don’t know anything about it in Delta State. We don’t know anything about CNG in the state.

“There is no evidence of CNG buses anywhere in the state. Everyone in the state is dependent on petrol. You hardly hear anyone talking about CNG buses in Delta because they simply do not exist in the state.”

However, Financial Vanguard learnt that the state government and NIPCO Gas Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of a CNG conversion centre for vehicles at a 3,000-meter facility in February 2025.

Also in another instance in Delta State, commercial bus drivers in Warri, the commercial nerve center of the state, said, “most filling stations are not designed for gas operations. They were built originally to dispense fuel to motorists and have remained so. This is one challenge hindering many vehicle owners from converting.”

Another commercial taxi operator told our correspondent, “I am not even sure they have opened any conversion center in Warri yet. The government even talked about introducing CNG tricycles for commercial use. I still see only fuel-powered Keke in Warri.”

Financial Vanguard findings revealed that after much fanfare in Akwa-Ibom State CNG launch last year, nothing concrete has happened.

In September last year, Pastor Umo Eno, the State governor, had declared that the state government would like to introduce CNG buses provided it found partners who would supply refilling stations for the transport buses.

Eno stated: “We are looking for partners who will provide refilling depots for our CNG buses,” during a broadcast commemorating the 37th year of the state’s creation.

“We will start this program as soon as this is accomplished. It does not make sense to buy CNG buses that will not have refilling depots. Doing so will defeat the purpose of this initiative.”

A month later, the federal government unveiled the CNG Conversion Incentive Programme in Uyo, the state capital, under the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi).

The event witnessed the g of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the PCNGi, Nsik Oil and Gas Limited, and two other private partners at the Nsik Motors Terminal, Uyo.

Programme Director and Chief Executive Officer of the P-CNGi, Michael Oluwagbemi, represented by Tosin Coker, the Head of Commercials, said the inauguration was for a pilot project designed to set a benchmark for CNG vehicle conversion and training in the state.

In March 2025, Nsik Oil and Gas flagged off the construction of a N10 million standard cubic feet per day (MMSCF/D) CNG mother station in Uquo Isi Edoho, Esit Eket Local Government Area.

However, nothing else had been heard of the delivery of CNG services in the state till date.
When Vanguard visited Nsik Motors, a management staff member said they were currently trying to put the needed structures in place at the Esit-Eket mother station.

Our source, who preferred to remain anonymous, hinted: “If everything had been put in place, we would have started to convert our buses to CNG.”

With no clear timeline for completion set, it is not clear when the critical stakeholders would activate both the CNG conversion incentive and refill mother and daughter stations, as no commissioning has been made.


https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/06/fgs-gas-powered-vehicle-scheme-runs-into-major-hitch-nationwide/

Nothing can be bought with those denomination, Nlfpmod!

Nlfpmod!

The Naira suffered a significant loss in the parallel market, closing at N1,630/$1 on Friday, May 30, 2025, after several days of relative stability at N1,620/$1, according to data from Nairametrics Research.

The local currency also weakened against the British pound, closing at N2,190/£1 on Friday, compared to N2,170/£1 on Thursday and N2,165/£1 on Wednesday—highlighting a consistent depreciation trend throughout the week.

In contrast, the previous week saw the Naira appreciate in the parallel market, rising to N1,620/$1 on Thursday from N1,625/$1 on Wednesday, maintaining that level from Tuesday.

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May 24, 2025

It had earlier closed at N1,627/$1 on Monday, according to market sources in Lagos.

Against other major foreign currencies, the Naira showed mixed performance. It gained against the pound sterling, appreciating to N2,135/£1 on Thursday, up from N2,155/£1 on Wednesday and N2,145/£1 on Tuesday. The week had opened at N2,142/£1. However, against the euro, the Naira declined to N1,835/€1 on Thursday, from N1,820/€1 on both Monday and Wednesday, though it slightly improved from Tuesday’s N1,825/€1.


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Official market performance
In the official market, the Naira showed a mixed trend. It closed at N1,585.5/$1 on Friday, a modest appreciation from N1,587/$1 on Thursday.

Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) data indicates that the currency closed at N1,592/$1 on Wednesday, slightly down from N1,590/$1 on Tuesday, and opened the week at N1,583/$1 on Monday.

Global oil prices add pressure on the Naira
Adding further pressure on the Naira, the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC+), the world’s largest oil producers, announced a planned increase of 411,000 barrels per day in production for July 2025.

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In an official statement on Saturday, OPEC+ reaffirmed: “In view of a steady global economic outlook and current healthy market fundamentals, as reflected in the low oil inventories, and in accordance with the decision agreed upon on December 5, 2024, to start a gradual and flexible return of the 2.2 million barrels per day voluntary adjustments starting from April 1, 2025, the eight participating countries will implement a production adjustment of 411 thousand barrels per day in July 2025 from the June 2025 required production level.”

According to Nairametrics Research, this increase could suppress global oil prices if demand growth underperforms or inventories remain stable—posing further risk to Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings and increasing pressure on the already volatile naira.

What you should know
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has projected that the Nigerian Naira will depreciate by at least 6% between 2025 and 2026, attributing this to growing volatility in global financial markets.

The forecast, contained in the African Economic Outlook 2025, reveals the potential instability of African currencies amid global economic uncertainty.

This projection comes just a week after CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso claimed that volatility in Nigeria’s foreign exchange (FX) market had dropped to below 0.5%, suggesting improved market conditions—a claim now challenged by recent market realities.

https://nairametrics.com/2025/06/01/exchange-rate-plunges-as-naira-closes-may-at-n1630-1-in-parallel-market-after-brief-stability/

Serious trouble!

The Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi, has warned that Nigeria is currently in crisis.

Sanusi said Nigerians are currently living with bandits and Boko Haram.

He disclosed this during the 60th birthday ceremony of former Rivers State governor, Rotimi Amaechi.

According to Sanusi: “For all those who are saying we have to be careful before we get into a crisis, please wake up.

“We are living with bandits and Boko Haram; we are already there.

“We are already in crisis, it has already happened, the question is how do we get out of it.”

Sanusi also blamed leaders for the multi-dimensional poverty in Nigeria.

The former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, said elites in Nigeria are unaware of poverty in Nigeria.

https://dailypost.ng/2025/06/01/were-in-crisis-nigerians-living-with-bandits-boko-haram-emir-of-kano-sanusi/

The Emir of Kano and former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, has said he got to know what poverty truly is when he mounted the throne.


Sanusi said this in a goodwill message at a public lecture with the theme: “Weaponization of poverty as a means of underdevelopment: A case study of Nigeria,” commemorating the 60th birthday celebration of former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, in Abuja, on Saturday.


The former CBN Governor said, “Many of the elite in Nigeria do not know what poverty is. As an economist, former CBN Governor, I see the numbers. I did not know poverty until I became Emir.

“And you go to the village and see the water they drink, the houses they live in, they two block classrooms without roofs.

“Do we actually love the people or do we just love ruling over them? What are our priorities. We make overheads and underes for ourselves in the cities while there in the rural areas cannot reach hospitals. We are in crisis, how do we get out should be our focus.”


Sanusi charged those saddled with the responsibility of leadership to inculcate the virtues of empathy with those they’ve been given a responsibility to lead.

Also speaking at the event, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai expressed concern that Nigerians kept repeating the same mistake of electing the worst among us into leadership positions.

According to him, “We keep electing people who only know how to grab power but don’t know what to do with it.”

A former Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme, Prof. Usman Yusuf, in his intervention, explained that most of the cases being handled in hospitals were not medical.


Yusuf blamed corruption and bad governance for the multidimensional poverty in Nigeria. He said unless citizens live up to their responsibilities and vote for what is right.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/05/i-only-knew-what-poverty-is-when-i-became-emir-sanusi-lamido/

Money is not everything!

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