The Dangote Group has addressed recent claims attributed to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) regarding its involvement in the financing of the Dangote Refinery. In a statement released by Anthony Chiejina, Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer, the company refuted the narrative that a $1 billion loan backed by NNPCL’s crude oil was pivotal to supporting the refinery during liquidity challenges. Chiejina clarified that the $1 billion loan mentioned in the reports constitutes only about 5% of the total investment in building the Dangote Refinery. The partnership with NNPCL, he explained, was formed based on the latter’s strategic…
Author: Abdoulaye Kay
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday presented Nigeria’s 2025 Appropriation Bill to the National Assembly. This marks Tinubu’s second full budget since taking office in May 2023, showcasing his administration’s priorities for the upcoming year. Tagged the ‘Restoration Budget: Security, Peace and Building Prosperity’, the bill was approved by the Federal Executive Council on Tuesday. It projects N34.8 trillion in revenue and a total expenditure of N47.90 trillion, leaving a projected deficit of N13.13 trillion, equivalent to 3.89% of Nigeria’s GDP. Debt servicing alone accounts for N15.81 trillion of the spending plan, underlining the country’s fiscal challenges. The budget is based…
The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), Professor Adenike Oladiji, has cautioned newly admitted students for the 2024/2025 academic session on the use of social media and the internet, and against engaging in anti-social and deviant behaviours that could jeopardize their educational journey. She delivered this message during the opening of the orientation program for the fresh students on Monday, December 16, 2024. Highlighting specific no-go areas, Professor Oladiji warned against indecent dressing, violent conduct (such as fighting and vandalism), disrespect towards university staff, and examination malpractices. She emphasized the severe repercussions of impersonation, stating that…
In a glittering celebration that drew together international media heavyweights, thought leaders, royalty, and policymakers, Stephanie Busari was honoured for her 25 years of groundbreaking work in journalism and 16 years of distinguished service at CNN. The event, held in Lagos at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture & History and attended by a constellation of influential figures, paid tribute to Busari’s extraordinary legacy—an Emmy, Peabody, and Gracie award-winning journalist whose reporting has reshaped global perspectives on Africa. The evening overflowed with accolades, heartfelt testimonials, and stirring endorsements from a chorus of eminent voices. They hailed Busari not only…
The Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai delivered a decisive blow to Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants in Malam Fatori, a strategic town in northeastern state of Borno Nigeria, through a series of precision airstrikes on December 15, 2024. The operation successfully neutralized dozens of terrorists and destroyed critical assets. According to intelligence sources, a large gathering of ISWAP fighters had been detected in the area. Surveillance missions revealed a concentration of vehicles and motorcycles, reportedly used for militant movement and logistical operations. Acting on this intelligence, the military launched a meticulously coordinated air campaign to dismantle the…
Warri based Legal firm, Robinson Ariyo & Co has raised an alarm over allegation of stockpiling of small, medium and heavy Firearms against Tantita Security Limited, (TSSL), a private company owned by Ex-Niger Delta Militant, Government Ekpemupolo popularly known as ‘Tompolo’. The firm while calling on President Bola Tinubu to investigate the activities of the Tompolo’s said the recent finding clearly shows that Tantita is an arm stockpiling company which is against its mandate. The legal firm in a letter of protest addressed to President Bola Tinubu and copied the President of the Senator, Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the Federal…
Notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has reportedly issued a series of threats following the arrest of his close associate, Wurgi, a key lieutenant responsible for negotiating and collecting ransoms for hostages. Wurgi is believed to play a pivotal role in Turji’s operations, particularly in the eastern areas of Sokoto and Zamfara states, targeting communities in Isa, Sabon Birni (Sokoto), and Shinkafi (Zamfara). According to intelligence sources cited by Zagazola Makama, Wurgi’s capture has infuriated Turji, sparking widespread concern among residents and security agencies in the region. Reliable sources indicate that Turji has already reached out to influential figures, including village…
The Sokoto State Government has launched an e-ticketing system for its 126 mass transit vehicles currently serving inter-state, intra-city, and inter-local government routes. The e-ticketing initiative was unveiled during a demonstration to Governor Ahmed Aliyu, showcasing how the system works and how passengers can easily obtain tickets without hassle. Governor Aliyu explained that the e-ticketing initiative is part of his administration’s measures to enhance transparency and accountability in the mass transit unit and across the state. “This system is excellent as it promotes a cashless operation and ensures that all transportation fares are deposited directly into the government’s coffers. “With…
Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger Republic will cease to be members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) from 2025. Alieu Touray, president of ECOWAS commission, made the announcement on Sunday during the 66th ordinary session of heads of states and governments in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city. Touray set the countries’ exit at January 29, 2025 – July 29, 2025. The ECOWAS president said the timeframe would allow for last mediations and any diplomatic interventions.
Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has approved a series of new appointments and the redeployment of key Heads of Agencies and Special Advisers. The announcement was made in a press statement by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Sunday, December 15, 2024. The new appointees include Dr. Ibrahim Musa, a renowned public health expert and hematologist from Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), and popular Kannywood actor, Sani Musa Danja. Below is the full list of appointees and their portfolios: New Appointments Dr. Ibrahim Musa – Special Adviser, Health Services & Personal Physician to the Governor Dr. Hadiza…