The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Stop disgracing our heritage – Internet users criticise Adeboye for sitting on Oyo monarch’s throne

    Stop disgracing our heritage – Internet users criticise Adeboye for sitting on Oyo monarch’s throne

    • Adeboye: Internet users fume

    Following a viral picture of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, spotted sitting on the throne of the Olugbon of Orile Igbon in Oyo state, Oba Francis Alao Akinbola, social media users have continues to react.

    The picture was posted on X by the RCCG Public Relations officer and has since then triggered reactions from internet users.

    Some condemned the man of God for sitting on the monarch’s throne, while others criticised the king for allowing that to happen. 

    Reposting the photo on X on Sunday, an X user, animolenikun, wrote: “PASTOR E. A. ADEBOYE stop disgracing our heritage, do your things and respect our culture pls. Don’t tarnish the name you have built, because if Yoruba stands up against all this act, you’ll surely regret it, sir.

    “My stand on this is that Baba Adeboye is doing this intentionally to ridicule the Yoruba Obaship. If you feel disgusted about it as Omoluabi this is time for you to speak up. This is an abomination.”

    Niass204 also wrote on X, “I don’t have him to blame I blame our so-called Obas who decide to subject themselves to ridicule. Why would an Oba vacate his sit for him to sit on? That means HE the Olugbon doesn’t have respect for that seat.”

    Commenting on the post, another tweep, HilawJamal1891 wrote: “I feel the blame should be placed under the feet of Olugbon…on what basis would he stand up off his throne for Baba Adeboye? He should be dethroned with immediate effect.”

    Read Also: Makinde to ex-LG chairmen: Stop trying to destabilise Oyo

    Posting the picture on Facebook, Deyemi Saka wrote: “I see nothing but pride in Pastor Adeboye. If he is as humble as you all claim, he would have declined this offer/gesture.”

    One Oyebolaji Collins Adewale also commented, “Adeboye is an ordinary man and not a god, but he has placed himself in the position of a god by sitting on the throne of a traditional king. It is not in doubt that God comes first but Adeboye is not god.”

    Amidst the knocks against the pastor and the monarch, some other social media users hold a different opinion.

    Tweeting on X, Adeshorpeh0912 wrote: “If God said, kings will bow before you, the thought of man and its opinion doesn’t concern God. It is going to happen. This is a living testimony.

    No dey whine God.”

    On Facebook, Kaayleb Ihasabemon also wrote: “The Bible says we are Kings with Christ who’s the King of kings, so we can sit on any throne. Baba is in order, don’t work yourselves out with trivialities.”

  • Soludo leads Ngige, others for father’s thanksgiving, commends Shettima

    Soludo leads Ngige, others for father’s thanksgiving, commends Shettima

    Anambra state governor, Chukwuma Soludo, on Sunday, December 24, led former governor and minister, Chris Ngige to the church thanksgiving of his late father, Pa Nwankwo after Saturday’s burial.

    The church service was held at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Isuofia, Aguata local government area of the state.

    Soludo expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who attended his late dad’s burial ceremony, extending special thanks to Vice President Kashim Shettima for traveling from Maiduguri.

    He also hailed other high-profile guests who came to console with the his family during their difficult moment.

    The governor said: “While my father lived, we gave him a befitting life. Now, we gave him a decent burial, free from unnecessary spending.”

    He announced that donations received in his father’s name would be directed towards causes championed by his father while he was alive, reiterating the importance of celebrating loved ones while they are still alive.

    Read Also: Makinde to ex-LG chairmen: Stop trying to destabilise Oyo

    During his homily, Rev. Fr. Prof. Anthony Chiegboka, the Vicar General of the Catholic Diocese of Ekwulobia, emphasized the importance of obtaining consent for the blessings received.

    Chiegboka, reiterated that everyone must give God a chance in their lives, adding that all were called by God to a service of love.

    He applauded Governor Soludo’s efforts in bringing lasting peace to his community, for which he was given the Chieftaincy title “Dike Udo Isuofia.”

    Traditional rulers, the speaker of the Anambra state house of Assembly, Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze and former Senate President, Sen. Ken Nnamani among those in attendance.

  • Emefiele, ex-minister, 14 others indicted in CBN probe

    Emefiele, ex-minister, 14 others indicted in CBN probe

    • Investigator’s report shows massive plunder of apex bank
    • N31.78b paid to print new naira notes
    • £543.45m fixed in British bank
    • N1.62tr COVID-19 funds unaccounted for

    Former Central Bank Governor Godwin Emefiele and a minister are to face trial over the scandal that rocked the apex bank in the last one year, it was learnt yesterday.

    After a five-month probe, Emefiele, the minister and 14 others who have been implicated in over N26.6 trillion fraud, have been recommended for trial.

    Those implicated include former and serving top officials of the apex bank.

    No fewer than 16 former government and CBN officials were alleged to have indulged in fraudulent use of ‘Ways and Means,’ which stood at N26.627 trillion.

    Also, a former influential aide of former President Muhammadu Buhari may be arraigned with Emefiele.

    In September 2022, the aide had allegedly told Emefiele to proceed with the naira redesign.

    The printing of the new notes cost N61.5 bilion out of which N31.79 billion has been paid.

    There were indications that the aide also sold a “dummy” to the former president.

    Preliminary investigations into the activities of the CBN and related entities revealed many infractions, including the violation of the apex bank’s Act, alleged looting, diversion of funds and sidelining of the Board of Directors.

    Other allegations were lack of presidential approval, extra budgetary spending, forgery, concealment, stealing, conspiracy and fraud.

    Unauthorised investments

    Some documents available to The Nation, based on the report by the Office of Special Investigator, gave insights into how the rot in the CBN was perpetrated.

    The Special Investigator on CBN and Related Entities, Mr. Jim Obazee, was appointed in July, 2023.

    He submitted an Interim Report on December 9, 2023.

    It was learnt that the final report was submitted to the President on the December 20.

    The investigations exposed what a source described as a “monumental scandal”

    Some documents, available to The Nation, contain some highlights of the first phase of the probe of accounts and operations of the CBN.

    It was discovered that Emefiele invested public money (billions of dollars) in 593 accounts in the United States, China and the United Kingdom without authorisation.

    In the UK alone, Emefiele kept £543,482, 213 in fixed deposits without authorisation by the CBN Board and the Investment Committee.

    Also, about N1.7 trillion spent on COVID 19 intervention management did not get to the right beneficiaries.

    Ways and Means

    A major breakthrough in the probe of the CBN was the manipulation of “Ways and Means” by Emefiele and his team.

    Investigations showed that the former CBN governor and those who worked with him could not produce evidence of “Ways and Means,” which now stands at N26.627trillion.

    It was found out that there were instances of arbitrariness where there was no presidential approval, but billions of Naira were taken out from the nation’s Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF) account.

     Some of the findings were as follows: “The CBN officers and even the then Acting CBN Governor could not produce the presidential approval of most of the expenses described as “Ways and Means”.

    “When confronted to provide  the breakdown of the supposed N22,719,703,774,306.90 that was presented to the 9th  National Assembly to illegally securitise as “Ways and Means” financing, they were only able to partially explain a total of N9,063,286,720,318.92 or N9,258,040,720,318.92 (depending on which official you are considering his submission) and an  unreasonable attribution of non-negotiated/unadvised interest element of N6,678,874,321,541.97. This shows the point where the officers of the immediate past administration as well the erstwhile CBN governor and others connived, defrauded and stole from the common wealth of the country with the aid of civil servants.

    “The true position of the “Ways and Means” as documented from the reconciliation between the CBN and the Ministry of Finance at the time is N4, 449, 149, 411. 584.54. This may have been the main reason the past administration hurriedly sought that the advances of N22,719,703,774,306.90 be securitised by the 9th National Assembly on the 19th December 2022; which they also hurriedly did despite the fact that it contravenes Section 38 of the CBN Act, 2007.”

    “The probe showed that the CBN Governor on the 19th December 2022 “ signed an advice to the former President Muhammadu Buhari to restructure “Ways and Means” of N23,719,703,774,306.90, despite presenting a different figure to the National Assembly on the same date.

    “The fact that the balance of the “Ways and Means” was documented as N26.63 trillion as at June 8, 2023 by the erstwhile CBN Governor shows an unrepentant attitude of the management of the CBN because they continued to carry the “Temporary Advances to the Federal Government” as a running current account, despite the obvious contravention of Section 38 of the CBN Act, 2007, which they swore to uphold,” the document said.

    Naira redesign

    Obazee, who worked with different teams of crack detectives, also uncovered the intrigues behind the naira redesign, which almost led to the collapse of the nation’s economy.

    The outcome of the investigation confirmed that an ex-presidential aide gave the directive to Emefiele.

    Section 19(1) of the CBN Act requires that “Naira notes and coins shall be of such forms and designs and bear such devises as shall be approved by the President on the recommendation of the Board of the CBN.”

    It was unclear the circumstances under which the former presidential aide allegedly gave instructions to Emefiele.

    A document said:  “The Naira Redesign was not approved by the Board of CBN and President Muhammadu Buhari in accordance with the law. Buhari only tagged along. Sometimes in September 2022, the erstwhile Governor of the CBN claimed that during his visit to the Presidential Villa, one of the presidential aides told him to go and consider redesigning the Naira.

    “On 6th of October, 2022, Emefiele wrote Buhari seeking approval to redesign and reconfigure N1,000, N500, N200 and N100 notes. Buhari approved the proposal same day. But Buhari approved the currency be printed in Nigeria.

    “On that 6th October 2022, former President Muhammadu Buhari approved Emefiele’s request and directed that he should redesign and reconfigure the four denominations of the Naira notes as prayed, but should print them locally.

    “Emefiele did not consult with the management of the CBN or seek any recommendation from the Board of the CBN as required by Section 19 of the CBN Act, 2007.

    “Emefiele did not seek the recommendation of the Board of the CBN nor revert to former President Muhammadu Buhari to inform him nor seek his presidential approval for the new redesigns and the fact that he is now recommending only three denominations

    “Emefiele took the redesigns, a mere change of colour to De La Rue in UK for a fee of £205,000. Only N1, 000, N500 and N200 were redesigned.

    “As at August 9, 2023, N769 billion of the new notes were in circulation. The printing cost was N61.5 billion, out of which N31.79 billion has been paid.

    In a separate document, the probe confirmed the investment of billions of dollars in 593 foreign accounts in the United States, China and the United Kingdom without approval from the board or the President.

    “The former governor of the CBN invested Nigeria’s money without authorisation in 593 foreign accounts in the United States, China and the United Kingdom while he was in charge.

    “All the accounts where the billions were lodged have all been traced by the investigator, In the UK alone, Emefiele kept £543,482, 213 in fixed deposits without authorization by the CBN board and the Investment Committee of the bank,” the document added

    COVID-19 intervention funds

    Another scandal which was unearthed was the inability to trace about N1.62 trillion COVID-19 intervention funds.

    Read Also: Yuletide: Don’t think of vacation this season, we’ve burden of Nigerians on our shoulders, Shettima tells NEC

    It was discovered that “the N1,622,119,412,095.16 was surreptitiously transferred to the following individuals and organizations: Police Trust Fund(N29,750,000,000.00); Companies and individuals (N22,680, 275, 135.45); borrowed for salaries (N720, 682,827,000.00); Donations to public (N40,000,000,000.00); Office of Accountant-General of the Federation (N196, 190,789,994.72); MDAs (N303,514, 294,725.21); and others (N293,986, 243,831.39).

    Diversion of N17b by DMB

    On the Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), the former CBN Governor was accused of unlawful manipulation of the approval of the President.

    Investigation indicated that 14 Deposit Money Banks (DMB) were involved in what is termed “criminal diversion of N17, 232,349, 193.55.

    But the list of the 14 banks was still kept under wraps as at press time.

    A source said: “We have the list which includes some rated banks. But at the appropriate time, Nigerians will know them.”

    Two of the banks are to refund over N3 billion each.

    The least amount to be refunded is N8, 902, 081 by a reputable bank.

    Also a web management firm is to refund N4.8 billion, being the sum said to have been illegally diverted from NESI Stabilisation Strategy Limited.

    Explaining what Emefiele did, the synopsis of the investigation on NESI was as follows: “The Presidential Approval granted by the then President Goodluck Jonathan was rightly stated by him that NESI should be a Company Limited by Guarantee, but the Committee of Governors misled the Board of the Central Bank of Nigeria by inter-alia:

    “Relying on a non-existent advice by the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, to incorporate a Company Limited by Shares for which the Allotted Share Capital exceeded the Authorized Share Capital (See 380% Meeting of the Committee of Governors held in January 2015); and

     ”Allotting unauthorised share capital without lawful approval by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Investigation also spotted illegal Issuance of Debentures by NESI Stabilisation Strategy Limited.

    “There was misrepresentation of Presidential Approval (NESI Stabilisation Strategy Limited). NESI, as approved by former President Goodluck Jonathan, was supposed to be an SPV limited by Guarantee, but Emefiele, relying on a non-existent advice, made it a company limited by shares.

    “By law, an SPV cannot issue Debentures, as it is precluded from forming a Debenture Trust. Worse still, a virgin entity without any operational track record cannot issue Debentures as it has no trading or earnings history to justify the requirements of the Debenture issue.

    “Despite these, the Committee of Governors of the Central Bank of Nigeria on the date of its Meeting of 21st  January 2015,  caused a violation of Section 31 of the CBN Act, 2007 by authorising the issuance of Debentures by NESI Stabilization Strategy Limited to which the initial sum of N64,861,954,000.00 (Sixty Four Billion, Eight Hundred and Sixty One Million, Nine Hundred and Fifty Four Thousand Only), was diverted from Public Funds under the guise of Debenture issuance. This practice has grown to N952,414,745,000 (Nine Hundred and Fifty Two Billion, Four Hundred and Fourteen Million, Seven  Hundred and Forty Five Thousand Naira Only) by the Financial Year end 2021”, the document added.

    “N1.325billion was stolen pre-incorporation and the money was funneled to four companies, including a legal firm which got N300 million.”

    The note on the allegations against some banks read: “A total of 14 DMBs engaged in the manipulation by unlawfully arranging and collecting 1.9535 percent of the total disbursements paid to the DMBs participating in the Nigerian Electricity Market Stabilisation facility.

    “The fees are paid to the banks in the ratio of their contributions to the NEMSF disbursement, according to External Auditor’s Notes to the Financial] Statement of NESI Stabilisation Strategy Limited.”

    Also, a firm linked with some CBN officials was paid N4, 897,789,000 allegedly “illegally diverted from NESI Stabilisation Strategy Limited.”

  • Abia govt uncovers ‘Japa’ doctors still collecting salaries

    Abia govt uncovers ‘Japa’ doctors still collecting salaries

    Governor Alex Otti of Abia state has said that his government had uncovered on its payroll some doctors who left the state employment and migrated abroad to seek greener pastures, in what is commonly known as ‘Japa.’

    According to the governor, such doctors are still collecting salaries from the state despite that they have left the state employment and are now working abroad.

    Otti made the revelation while speaking at the first Abia State Council on Health at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia with the theme, “Providing an Accessible, Affordable and Quality Healthcare System for the New Abia”.

    The governor, while observing that doctors’ emigration had impacted negatively on the state’s health sector, promised to tackle the trend by giving doctors a special welfare package from next year.

    He said: “The ‘japa’ syndrome has indeed taken its toll on the health sector; however, this administration is not leaving any stone unturned in addressing this challenge. To this end, the government has resolved to motivate our health care workers through prompt payment of their wages and improvement of welfare packages that we will introduce from 2024.”

    The governor added that his administration would recruit more health workers to strengthen the health sector.

    Read Also: Tinubu expanding horizon of entrepreneurship in Nigeria – Alake

    He said: “We are in the process of recruiting new skilled birth attendants to improve healthcare service delivery in the state. Furthermore, our ongoing digitalisation of the Abia State civil service has uncovered some staff that have left their duty post for greener pastures, yet still receive remuneration from the government. While the criminality involved in this is going to be addressed by the relevant agencies of government, the important thing here is that we do not have the number of hands that were hitherto reported. We are working hard to fill these gaps.”

    Otti said his government was strengthening primary health care and ensuring that health facilities were manned by personnel across the state.

    The Minister of Health, represented by the Permanent Secretary of Abia State Ministry of Health, Dr Ifenyinwa Uma-Kalu, stressed the need for state governments to support the federal government by providing the necessary infrastructure in the health care system.

    The Commissioner for Health, Dr Ngozi Okoronkwo, described the first State Council on Health as a demonstration of the commitment of Otti’s administration to prioritising developmental initiatives that are capable of unlocking the potential of Abia’s strategic human capital.

  • LASTMA officials rescue three passengers in Lagos car crash

    LASTMA officials rescue three passengers in Lagos car crash

    The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority said it has rescued three commercial bus passengers from an accident that occurred at the Anthony-Oke, Oshodi area of the state.

    This was disclosed in a statement by the Public Relations Officer, LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, on the evening of Thursday, December 21.

    The statement said that two females and a male passenger were rescued in a serious accident involving a Volkswagen T4’ with number plate EPE 399 YC and a Homo Truck with number plate T -20174 LA.

    Taofiq added that a preliminary investigation revealed that the commercial Volkswagen T4 bus was crushed while in motion due to brake failure on the part of the Homo truck driver.

    The LASTMA boss said that the three accident victims including the truck driver were rescued by a LASTMA official, Abidoye Segun, who hurriedly contacted the Mosafejo Police Station and representatives of the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit to the scene.

    However, the acting General Manager of LASTMA, Bakare Oki, cautioned motorists against driving carelessly and to always make sure their heavy-duty vehicles, especially the braking system, are in good condition before starting any travel, both inside and outside the State.

    The statement partly read: “Operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority today rescued three commercial bus passengers involved in a serious accident at Anthony-Oke inward Oshodi, Lagos.

    Read Also: Tinubu expanding horizon of entrepreneurship in Nigeria – Alake

    “The Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, Mr Adebayo Taofiq, in a press statement confirmed that the three passengers (two females & one male) were rescued in a serious accident involving a Volkswagen Commercial ‘T4’ bus (EPE 399 YC) and a ‘Homo’ Truck (T 20174 LA).

    “Preliminary investigation revealed that the driver of the ‘Homo’ Truck drove recklessly and crushed a commercial Volkswagen ‘T4’ bus while on motion as a result of a brake failure.

    “Immediately after the accident happened, Traffic Officer Abidoye Segun (Zebra 4), who led the rescue operation, quickly contacted Mosafejo Police Station and officials of the State Environmental Health Monitoring Unit before the three accident victims were rescued including the driver of the truck.

    “The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Bakare Oki, who visited the accident scene warned tanker/truck drivers against reckless driving and to always ensure their heavy-duty vehicles are in good condition including the braking system before embarking on any journey within and outside the state.

    “Oki however appealed to members of the public, particularly motorists to obey all traffic regulations in order to ensure the safety of all road users before, during, and after the Yuletide season.”

  • Foundation backs less-privileged, vulnerable people

    Foundation backs less-privileged, vulnerable people

    Anon-governmental organisation, Food Alms Foundation, has disbursed food items to indigent and vulnerable persons in Lagos.

    The Co-founder of the foundation, Ibrahim Durosomo, said the gesture was to reduce hunger due to the current economic situation.

    Presenting the raw food items and cash to the less privileged, in Surulere, Lagos, Durosomo said the foundation plans to start skills acquisition programme to empower people.

    He said: “It is a humanitarian organisation that is here to support the masses with raw food items, prepared food and cash. We hope to sustain the philanthropic gesture and extend it to other states of the federation in the foreseeable future.

    “In the long run, we want to get to a level that we will empower people but we have to start with this, then we advance to empowerment where we train people about how to become financially independent.”

    He called on the federal government to wake up to the plight of the citizens by channelling their humanitarian gestures through non-governmental organisations.

    He said: “People are really suffering. Things are really hard due to the subsidy removal. That’s why we came up with this NGO to assist the poor with the limited resources at our disposal. We task ourselves and seek favours from friends and colleagues. We can’t do it alone, that’s why we are also calling on government at all levels to support us.

    “Let the government at all levels draw a programme that will take food to people’s doors. Of course, I am aware the Lagos State government recently launched a food bank support initiative for NGOs in order to distribute food items to vulnerable people. They can reach out to more NGos including ours, for effective and efficient disbursement.”

    Read Also: Tinubu expanding horizon of entrepreneurship in Nigeria – Alake

    Also, speaking Co-founder, Abduljelil Adeyemi, reiterated that the vision of the foundation is to alleviate hunger pang in the community, noting, “the NGO has the sole responsibility of feeding the people. As our slogan says “action against hunger, goodness to humanity.

    “Food is one of the major aspects of human life and an integral part of their welfare, therefore, solving hunger problems is very essential,” he said.

    However, he said that the NGO has financial limitations, appealing for the support from government.

    “As an NGO, we need the support of government. We appreciate our donors who support us to actualise what we are doing today. It is a great initiative that we started and we are hopeful of its going a long way,” he said.

    A beneficiary, Alfa Saheed Alaka, a father of three children thanked the foundation for its kind gesture, praying God continues to help them.

    “I am very happy because eating is a little difficult. I have had eye defects since 12 years ago and they help us at intervals. May God help them as well,” he said.

    Another beneficiary, Chidimma Nwachukwu, couldn’t hide her happiness, praying God Almighty to bless the Foundation.

    According to her, “I’m very very happy. This is a good programme and it brings peace of mind for people. God will continue to bless them, prosper them in whatever they lay their hands on.

    Muhammad Nuhu excited to be among the beneficiaries, saying such programme should be happening frequently to aid peace of mind for everybody.

    “If more people give us foods like this, we’d continue to pray for them. These people aren’t selfish. They want other people not to go hungry. May Allah continue to reward them,” he said

  • Oloyede, ex-NAHCON chair, MTN chief, others for GMP convention

    Oloyede, ex-NAHCON chair, MTN chief, others for GMP convention

    • By Mariam Ololade

    The Registrar and Chief Executive of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, Chief Financial Officer and Executive Director of MTN Nigeria Mr Modupe Kadri and former Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria Hajj Commission (NAHCON) Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan will tomorrow lead eminent personalities that would speak at the 10th edition of annual convention of the Guild of Muslim Professionals (GMP).

    Other guests expected at the event, according to a statement by Chairman of the GMP Board of Trustees, Akeem Oyewale, include Managing Director of Lotus Bank Hajia Kafilat Araoye, Executive Director of Marketing and Sales, Citiserve Ltd Dr. Jubril Salahudeen and Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Baytuzeenah, Hajia Saidat Otiti.

    The event is slated for Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, with theme “Building Bridges of Progress.”

    Oyewale, the Chief Executive Officer of Marble Capital Limited, said the convention promises to be an enriching experience for attendees, featuring a distinguished lineup of speakers, including renowned scholars, captains of industries, entrepreneurs, and life and relationship coaching experts.

    The event, he added, will provide a unique opportunity for participants to gain insights, share experiences, and engage in thought-provoking discussions.

    Read Also: Tinubu expanding horizon of entrepreneurship in Nigeria – Alake

    He said: “This year, the conference will be held over two day. On the first day, our esteemed speakers will address the central theme and other pertinent issues that hold significant relevance for Muslim professionals. The convention seeks to foster connections among Muslim professionals from various industries, offering a unique blend of professional development, faith exploration, and nation-building.

    In addition to professional growth, GMP’s convention offers a platform for spiritual reflection and growth. During the convention, we will provide a space for support, mentorship, and spiritual guidance. Our goal is to empower our members to become successful professionals, role models, and catalysts for positive change.

    Participants can look forward to engaging lectures on Islamic ethics, interfaith dialogue sessions, and discussions to promote understanding and appreciation for diverse religious perspectives in workplaces and life in general.

  • Govt: petrol production begins next week at PH refinery

    Govt: petrol production begins next week at PH refinery

    • NNPCL completes mechanical rehabilitation
    • Dangote gets another 1m barrels of crude

    The Federal Government yesterday reassured Nigerians that the production of petrol and Liquified Natural Gas(LNG) will resume at the Port Harcourt Refinery after Christmas break.

    It said the optimism is based on the ‘mechanical completion and flare start-up’ of Phase one of the 210,000 barrels per day (bpd) refinery by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited(NNPCL).

    The test run of the facility is said to be ongoing.

     Minister of State for  Petroleum Resources(Oil)  Heineken Lokpobiri; Minister of State Petroleum Resources(Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo; NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer,  Mele Kyari,  NNPCL Board Chairman   Pius Akinyelure;   and Port Harcourt Refinery  Managing Director Ibrahim Onoja, made this known during a  media tour of the refinery in Eleme, Rivers State.

    The tour coincided with the 15th  Rehabilitation SteerCo meeting. 

    Lokpobiri told reporters that with the  Phase One  now ready, efforts would be geared towards the completion of the  Phase Two of the facility in the last quarter of next year.

    He said: “The mechanical part is completed and this is the beginning of the completion of not just this Port Harcourt Refinery phase one and two, but the one for Warri, and then the one in Kaduna, so that we would be able to benefit from this massive investment that the country has made.”

    Also, Ekpo said with the commencement of petrol production after Christmas, there will be more LPG(cooking gas) supply to the Nigerian market.

    He added: “The good news equally to LPG users that as the refinery commences after Christmas, we will have  sufficient supply of LPG which will reduce the import at that level.”

     NNPCL boss Kyari explained that the refinery pumps had been rehabilitated to allow the circulation of crude within the facility.

    He said: “It is just to thank the team for doing great work and for keeping the promise we made to over 200 million Nigerians, and we know that this is a promise we can keep.

    “We have a competent contractor and subcontractors. Our staff members are extremely determined to deliver on this project, and today, it is a promise fulfilled. Phase Two will be completed in the last quarter of 2024..

    “We know all the scepticism that is in the public space but today has shown that we can fulfill commitments. NNPC is here to deliver value and we will get things done going forward.

     “We have done a great deal of work to get the refinery to work. Our team has been working 24 hours a day and we are happy with the results we have today.”

    NNPCL Board Chairman  Akinyelure, who described the completion of Phase 0ne as “historic,” said he promised President Bola Tinubu that the refinery would be ready by the end of this year

    He said: “I am here this morning to witness this historic ceremony on the mechanical completion of the Port Harcourt Refinery. We are proud of the staff and entire management of the refinery. We will be at the highest level of production, and if possible export part of our production. 

    Read Also: Tinubu expanding horizon of entrepreneurship in Nigeria – Alake

     “Doubts had been expressed by several Nigerians about the ability of NNPCL to make this facility available to support the distribution of fuel in the country. But today, I see them happy.”

    Onoja also said the mechanical completion of the refinery was historic in that it would help buoy the nation’s economy.

    He said:  “Today is a very happy day for me. I was part of the story from the beginning. We had a Presidential directive to get the refinery working. The NNPCL Group CEO asked us to give him an unassailable process that will not fail.

    “We set governance in process and got the best team to do the work. We created a transparent project. We have 118 pumps in this first phase, the columns were filled and it will produce 60,000 barrels per day. It will create jobs and earn forex for the country.” 

    * Tinubu   a promise keeper, says FNM

    The Future Nigeria Movement (FNM) welcomed the completion of the Phase One of the facility. It  described President Tinubu as a promise keeper 

    Its Leader Livingstone Wechie, said the turnaround was hitherto used by some agents of the Federal Government to siphon billions of dollars but that Tinubu ended such practice by ensuring its completion.

     The  Port Harcourt refinery comprises two units, with the old plant having a refining capacity of 60,000  bpd and the new plant 150,000 bpd.

    It was shut down in March 2019 for the first phase of repair works after the government secured the services of Italy’s Maire Tecnimont to handle the scoping of the complex, with oil major Eni appointed technical adviser.

    In 2021, NNPC Ltd. said repairs had started after the Federal Executive Council approved $1.5bn for the project.

    The refinery had over the years performed below optimal levels which resulted in the importation of petroleum products for domestic use for many years to cover for the gap in the refinery’s output. 

    *Dangote refinery receives another  one million barrels of crude

    Dangote Refinery has made a further move towards the commencement of production of refined petroleum products with the receipt of an additional one million barrels of bonny light crude from the NNPCL.

    About a week ago, the refinery received one million barrels of Agbami crude grade from Shell International Trading and Shipping Company Limited (STASCO).

    Managing Director of Dangote Ports Operations, Mr Akin Omole told reporters at the Dangote Quay, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos that the facility was expecting more supplies before the end of this year.

    Designed for 100 percent Nigerian crude, the 650,000 bpd refinery can process most African crude grades as well as Middle Eastern Arab Light and even US Light tight oil. 

  • Passengers overwhelm free inter-state Yuletide train service

    Passengers overwhelm free inter-state Yuletide train service

    There was a passenger surge yesterday as the free train service took off in line with the presidential directive.

    However, the bus transportation part of the programme, had not taken off yesterday.

    The Federal Government on Wednesday announced President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of rebates for transportation during the yuletide, beginning yesterday.

    In the programme, Nigerians travelling to celebrate with loved ones are to enjoy a free train ride on the Lagos-Ibadan, Abuja-Kaduna, Warri-Itakpe and Ido-Ijoko (Ogun State) routes.

    Those travelling by bus will pay 50 per cent of the cost.

    Five transport companies – God is Good, Chisco Transport, Young Shall Grow, God Bless Ezenwata and Area Motor – are partnering the Federal Government in the arrangement.

    Passengers thronged the Mobolaji Johnson Train Station at Ebute Meta, Yaba, Lagos.

    The two train services were filled, with many who were unable to board seen waiting.

    Many of the passengers who did not know that e-ticketing was mandatory were told they could not buy tickets at the station. 

    The Lagos District Manager, Mr Augustine Arisa, described the patronage as “expectedly heavy because we have started the free train service”.

    He said many passengers could not board as a result of the crowd that thronged the station.

    He said the Corporation ran two shuttle services between Lagos and Ibadan on the standard gauge yesterday.

    Arisa said the Corporation was prepared to meet the desire of travellers this yuletide and is primed to provide top-of-the-range service for which the standard gauge service is becoming well known.

    He believes the free train offer was an opportunity for many more Nigerians to have a taste of train ride alternatives.

    Bus plan yet to take off

    However, some of the transport companies were still charging normal fares in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, as of yesterday.

    Their workers said they were yet to receive a directive to that effect from their head offices.

    A manager of a Chisco Motors park in Owerri said: “The management has not given us any order or directive for such a discount.”

    A cashier added: “It is a good development and many people have given the president thumps up.

    “But we have not been directed to start the discount.”

    Passengers travelling for Christmas from Enugu are also yet to benefit from the rebate.

    None of the transport companies approved to convey passengers to various states at half the price was yet to commence the gesture.

    A passenger at God Is Good Motors at Ogui Road, Enugu, who identified herself as Victoria Gwambe, said she paid the regular fare to Abuja.

    A manager at The Young Shall Grow Motors in Enugu said the branch was yet to get any signal from head office to slash the price.

    Travellers on the Warri-Lagos and Warri-Abuja routes urged the Federal Government to extend the fare slash to Delta.

    The bus routes are Lagos-Kano, Lagos-Abuja, Lagos-Kaduna-Zaria, Lagos-Jos, Lagos-Enugu, Lagos-Onitsha, Lagos-Owerri, Lagos-Aba, Lagos-Abakaliki, Lagos-Nsukka, Lagos-Uyo, and Lagos-Port Harcourt.

    Others are Onitsha-Kano, Onitsha-Lagos, Onitsha-Jos, Onitsha-Abuja, Onitsha-Sokoto, Onitsha-Gombe, Onitsha-Zakibiam, Port Harcourt-Owerri-Aba-Kano, Aba-Owerri-Abuja, Aba-Lagos, Abuja-Sokoto, Abuja-Lagos, Abuja-Onitsha-Owerri-Port Harcourt, Abuja-Enugu/Abakaliki, Abuja-Gombe and Abuja-Kano.

    The subsidy programme will end on January 4, 2024.

    Praises for Fed Govt

    While many praised President Tinubu for the timely intervention, others pleaded for the expansion of the designated routes.

    A social media user, Ayo Olorunsola tweeted: “@officialABAT did this. Just got two tickets for my son and my mum’s en route to Babatunde Raji Fashola Station. Thank you, my president”

    Read Also: Yuletide: Don’t think of vacation this season, we’ve burden of Nigerians on our shoulders, Shettima tells NEC

    Setofunmi Alo said: “Free train tickets. This is not audio. Well done, President Tinubu and his team.”

    Adetomiwa Niyi also tweeted: “I took the train this morning and to my surprise it was free. But it still doesn’t make up for everything you’ve done Tinubu”

    Irechukwu Tochukwu on Facebook: “Thanks Mr President this one you remember Southeast. I see a better Nigeria”

    Royston Joseph said: “Mr President’s intervention is greatly appreciated, thank you.”

    Minister: five million passengers targeted

     No fewer than five million passengers are targeted in the 50 per cent transportation rebate, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris said.

    He stressed that the aim is to cushion the effect of the high cost of transportation.

    Idris said: “In other to cushion the effect of high cost of transportation fares, the Federal Government targets to lift five million commuters during this yuletide season with the 50 per cent transportation rebate.”

    He said the five transporters were chosen for their track records and capacity.

    “These five very well-established companies have been contacted because they already have a track record of moving people from one part of the country to another.

    “The desire of government is not just to patronise a few people. 

    “These people have the track record and that is why they have been contacted to be part of this.

    “If there are more people that have the capacity and there is a need to engage them, the government will just do that.

    “The aim of this, of course, is to provide Nigerians with succour and remember, it is only for the period of Christmas and New Year.”

    Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr Dele Alake, who chairs the Inter-ministerial Committee on Presidential Intervention, told reporters: “The President is well aware of the recent increase in the cost of interstate transportation.

    “It is in this wise that the Federal Government is announcing…a special discounted holiday season fare on road transport and zero-fare by rail across Nigeria.”

    “Nigerians willing to travel can board public transport via minibuses and luxury buses at a 50 per cent discount of current cost.

    “All our train services on the routes the trains currently serve will operate at zero cost to and fro this holiday season.

    “This special presidential intervention will commence Thursday, December 21. It will end on January 4, 2024.”

  • 11 Supreme Court Justices-designate may be sworn in next week

    11 Supreme Court Justices-designate may be sworn in next week

    • Upper Chamber adjourns plenary till December 29

    The 11 Justices-designate of the Supreme Court who were cleared yesterday by the Senate will be sworn in next week, The Nation learnt yesterday.

    Sources said following the confirmation, the Senate will write the Presidency, informing it about the clearance.

    Thereafter, the Presidency will advise the National Judicial Council (NJC) and the Supreme Court will organise a special session where the Justices will be sworn in – next week. 

    The Senate confirmation of the 11 Justices followed the consideration of the report of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, which screened the Justices and the approval of its recommendations by the Red Chamber.

    Committee Chairman Mohammed Monguno (APC, Borno North) presented the report.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had, on Wednesday, asked the Senate to confirm the 11 nominees, who were recommended by the National Judicial Council (NJC) to fill the vacant positions following the death and resignation of some justices of the apex court.

    The Supreme Court Justices-designate include Justice Haruna Tsammani (Northeast), who chaired the Presidential Election Petition Court; Justice Moore Adumein (Southsouth), Justice Jummai Sankey (Northcentral), Justice Chidiebere Uwa (Southeast) and Justice Chioma Nwosu-Iheme (Southeast).

    The others are: Justice Obande Ogbuinya (Southeast), Justice Stephen Adah (Northcentral), Justice Habeeb Abiru (Southwest), Justice Jamilu Tukur (Northwest), Justice Abubakar Umar (Northwest), and Justice Mohammed Idris (Northcentral).

    The appointment of the 11 Justices brings to 21 the number of Justices on the Supreme Court’s Bench which hitherto had only 10 justices.

    Read Also: Tinubu expanding horizon of entrepreneurship in Nigeria – Alake

    Monguno said the nominees had the requisite qualifications and experiences to occupy the position and that there was no petition against them.

    He recommended their confirmation.

    All the senators who spoke before the confirmation had expressed concern over the delay in the appointment of justices for the Supreme Court’s Bench.

    Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa) advised that in the event of future vacancies, a provision for their immediate replacement should be made.

    Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) said it was important that those who are next in line be screened and appointed immediately as the vacancies occur at the apex court.

    Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia) stressed that the funds allocated to the Supreme Court in the 2024 budget be reviewed upwards to ensure its effectiveness.

    Also, the Senate has adjourned plenary till Friday, December 29, 2023, to receive the report of the Appropriation Committee on the 2024 Budget estimates.