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  • NNPC hails Chevron over successful Awodi-07 Well in Niger Delta

    NNPC hails Chevron over successful Awodi-07 Well in Niger Delta

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has commended Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL), operator of the NNPC Ltd/CNL Joint Venture, on the successful completion of the Awodi-07 appraisal and exploration well, with a production capacity of 146,000 barrels per day, located in the shallow offshore western Niger Delta.

    The Awodi-07 well was drilled as part of the Joint Venture’s ongoing strategy to further delineate and unlock hydrocarbon potential across its asset portfolio.

    Drilling activities began in late November 2025 and were concluded by mid-December 2025, with operations carried out safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with approved regulatory and operational standards.

    Following extensive testing, logging, and data acquisition, the well was safely secured, marking the successful completion of the programme.

    The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by NNPC Ltd’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, who described the results as highly promising.

    According to him, findings from the well confirmed a substantial presence of hydrocarbons across multiple reservoir zones, underscoring the commercial potential of the asset.

    He noted that the outcome represents a significant milestone for the NNPC Ltd/CNL Joint Venture, strengthening confidence in the underlying asset base and reinforcing the prospectivity of the area.

    Odeh added that the success of Awodi-07 highlights the value of disciplined exploration, robust technical evaluation, and effective operational collaboration between NNPC Ltd and its Joint Venture partner.

    Commenting on the achievement, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, commended Chevron Nigeria Limited for its operational excellence, technical competence, and consistent delivery of value.

    Read Also: Shell plans fresh $20b investment in NNPCL, says GCEO

    He stated, “The success of the Awodi-07 well further reinforces the strength of the NNPC Ltd/CNL Joint Venture and our shared commitment to responsibly growing Nigeria’s hydrocarbon reserves. This achievement aligns squarely with our strategic priorities of increasing production, enhancing national energy security, and delivering sustainable value for the Nigerian people.”

    Also speaking on the milestone, the Executive Vice President, Upstream, NNPC Ltd, Mr. Udy Ntia, described the Awodi-07 results as a clear demonstration of the value of sustained collaboration, technical rigour, and a stable, enabling operating environment.

    According to him, “This discovery underscores the importance of disciplined exploration programmes, strong partnerships, and the positive impact of the reforms introduced under the Petroleum Industry Act. We look forward to working closely with Chevron Nigeria Limited to mature this opportunity and progress it towards timely development and monetisation.”

    NNPC Limited and Chevron Nigeria Ltd work together under a joint venture agreement to operate several oil and gas fields in Nigeria’s Niger Delta. In this partnership, Chevron owns 40 per cent of the assets, while NNPC Limited holds the remaining share. The arrangement allows both companies to combine resources, expertise, and investment to develop Nigeria’s oil and gas resources more effectively.

    Through this collaboration, the partners aim to increase oil production to about 146,000 barrels per day, which would support government revenue, create jobs, and contribute to the country’s energy supply.

  • JUST IN: Sunday Igboho returns to Nigeria today as supporters storm Ibadan residence  

    JUST IN: Sunday Igboho returns to Nigeria today as supporters storm Ibadan residence  

    Barring last-minute change, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho is set to return to Nigeria today, January 26th, 2026 The Nation has learnt. 

    Recall The Nation has reported that Olayomi Koiki, spokesman for Igboho, said all arrangements have been concluded for his principal’s return to Nigeria after prominent monarchs persuaded President Bola Tinubu to remove Igboho’s name from the list of wanted persons.

    According to Koiki, the traditional rulers who intervened include the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; and the Olugbon of Orile Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, among others.

    Upon his arrival today, Igboho is expected to visit the palace of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja. 

    The Nation also learnt that there is security beefed up at his residence as detachments of policemen and other security agencies were spotted at strategic locations. 

    Read Also: JUST IN: Sunday Igboho set to fully return to Nigeria from self-exile

    Koiki, said, “As I’m speaking to you, Chief Sunday Adeyemo is on his way to Nigeria. 

    “He should be there any moment from now. You know he resides in Benin Republic and he is on his way to Ibadan to meet Olubadan today by special grace of God.”

    Koiki further disclosed that Igboho was no longer being sought by Nigerian authorities, attributing the development to sustained royal interventions, political goodwill and persistent advocacy by Yoruba leaders within and outside the country.

    Meanwhile, supporters of Igboho have stormed his Soka, Ibadan residence to also receive him. 

    Various Yoruba socio-cultural organisations, including the Oodua Peoples’ Congress (OPC), Agbekoya Vigilante group and Ifelodun Security Network, are also at his residence. 

    His return could be termed as another homecoming. In 2024, Igboho was in the country for his late mother’s burial ceremony. 

    Details shortly…

  • JUST IN: Four suspected kidnappers arrested in Edo forest

    JUST IN: Four suspected kidnappers arrested in Edo forest

    Combined security operatives have arrested four suspected kidnappers in the forest in Ewu, Esan Central local government area.

    They were reportedly arrested after a shoot-out with security operatives.

    Edo Police spokesman, Eno Ikoedem, confirmed the arrest and said the suspects have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department.

    Read Also: NDLEA arrests 67-year-old, destroys over 11 tonnes of cannabis in Ogun, Edo forests

    She said a detailed statement would soon be issued.

    Details shortly…

  • APC candidates ‘ll emerge through consensus- Aiyedatiwa

    APC candidates ‘ll emerge through consensus- Aiyedatiwa

    As political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, Ondo Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has declared candidates of the governing All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state would emerge through ‘consensus.’

    Aiyedatiwa, at the APC stakeholders’ meeting at The International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome, in Akure, on Sunday, stated that he has not endorsed or promised any aspirants the ‘elective ticket’ of the party. 

    He noted that it had become necessary to clearly state his position in view of widespread insinuations in the political space ahead of primaries for elective positions. 

    Aiyedatiwa warned party memebers, especially those vying for the House of Assembly and National Assembly tickets against rumours, assumptions and political falsehoods capable of creating division within the governing APC in the state. 

    “Let me quickly correct this because we know in the political climate there are many falsehoods, lies, insinuations, and assumptions that fly around and try to create cracks and divisions. I want to emphasise that I have not promised anyone a ticket.

    “I have not promised anyone that I am giving you a ticket of State Assembly or National Assembly. I have not said I will deny anyone a return ticket,” the Governor declared. 

    Aiyedatiwa further added that the leaders of the party will participate in the process of picking candidates for elective positions in the state, reaffirming that the governing party will explore the “consensus arrangement.”

    He, however, urged party members to remain firm and disciplined, stressing that it is now in their hands to protect what the party has built and warning against actions capable of emboldening factions within the party. 

    Read Also: Ondo federal lawmakers pledge support for Aiyedatiwa, seek APC unity

    The Governor emphasised unity, noting that most national assembly members from the state were present at the meeting, while those absent had sent apologies due to national assignments.

    He said APC remained the only viable party in the state and urged members to work together to build Ondo State.

    Aiyedatiwa also placed strong emphasis on the APC e-registration exercise, describing it as critical to the party’s future. 

    He explained that the meeting was convened ahead of the January 31 deadline to mobilise leaders across wards and local governments.

    He infirmed, as of the day of the meeting, Ondo State had recorded 128,770 registered members, ranking third in the South-West zone, adding that there was still room for improvement.

    According to him, challenges associated with National Identification Number (NIN) registration were being addressed in collaboration with relevant agencies while logistics and decentralisation efforts were being strengthened to boost participation.

  • Tinubu opened political space for young Nigerians – City Boy Movement DG

    Tinubu opened political space for young Nigerians – City Boy Movement DG

    A pro-democracy group, the City Boy Movement (CBM), has hailed the growing inclusion of young and non-traditional actors in the country’s political space under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, describing it as a necessary step toward strengthening democracy and securing the nation’s future.

    The Director General of the movement, Oluwatosin Francis Shoga, stated this on Sunday in Abuja, while responding to critics, following the entry of business leaders and philanthropists like Obi Cubana into the political space.

    He reaffirmed that President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda has sent a clear signal that youth participation, entrepreneurship, and fresh perspectives are valued.

    According to him: “The inclusiveness of today’s political environment reflects democratic maturity. Nigeria’s future will be built through courage, participation, and unity—not fear of change.

    “Nigeria is at a defining moment in its democratic evolution, where long-standing calls for inclusion, fresh leadership, and new ideas are beginning to take shape.

    “For years, Nigerians, particularly young people, have decried political exclusion, recycled leadership, and limited access to decision-making.

    ‘Today, the increasing participation of young and dynamic Nigerians should not be seen as a threat, but as a renewal of democracy.”

    Shoga emphasised that democracy thrives when capable and willing citizens are encouraged to participate, regardless of their background.

    Read Also: Ndume hails Tinubu, Zulum for resettling terror attack victims

    He added: “Nigeria’s push toward national development requires broad participation from individuals who are patriotic, competent, and committed to the country’s growth. Discriminating against citizens willing to contribute would be counterproductive.”

    The movement also noted the surge in political interest sparked by the involvement of business leaders such as Obi Cubana, describing it as a positive development that has re-energised youth engagement.

    “Thousands of young Nigerians who previously felt disconnected are now paying attention, asking questions, and taking an interest in governance. That level of engagement is the foundation of a healthy democracy,” the statement read in part. 

    City Boy Movement further pointed out what it described as contradictions in public discourse, noting that while Nigerians have long criticised age-dominated leadership, resistance often arises when younger or younger-minded individuals step forward.

    The movement reiterated that political participation is a constitutional right and called on Nigerians to embrace a culture of openness and collective responsibility.

  • NOA lauds Funke Akindele on Box Office achievement

    NOA lauds Funke Akindele on Box Office achievement

    The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has congratulated actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele on the record-breaking performance of her latest movie ‘Behind the Scenes’, at the box office.

    The film has crossed the N2.2 billion mark at the Nigerian box office, becoming the first Nollywood film to achieve this milestone.

    According to NOA on X, the movie’s success extends beyond Nigeria, with earnings of over $111,256 in Canada and $190,249 in North America.

    The statement reads: “Funke Akindele Remains in Front with Behind the Scenes. Big screens, big stars, and even bigger numbers! Funke Akindele has done it again, and this time, she did not just break records, she shattered them.

    “Her latest movie titled “Behind the Scenes” has officially crossed ₦2.1 billion at the Nigerian box office, making history as the first Nollywood film ever to hit the ₦2 billion mark.

    Read Also: Funke Akindele makes history in Canada, North America with “Behind The Scenes”

    “The flex did not stop at home, the movie also showed modest global muscle, raking in over $111,256 in Canada and an impressive $190,249 across North America. From Lagos to Toronto, from cinemas in Abuja to theatres overseas — this movie had everyone locked in.

    “This big win solidifies the movie as the highest grossing Nollywood film of all time in Africa, the UK, and Ireland, makes her the first filmmaker to rank number one at the box office in Africa for three consecutive years, while also proving that Nigerian stories are going global”.

    This achievement marks Akindele’s position as a top filmmaker in Africa, marking her third consecutive year as the top-grossing filmmaker on the continent.

  • Oyetola’s wife rescues stranded Nigerian in Egypt

    Oyetola’s wife rescues stranded Nigerian in Egypt

    Wife of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs Kafayat Oyetola, has recused a 36-year-old Osun indigene, Titilayo Oluwaseun, who was stranded in Cairo, Egypt.

    The Nation recalled Oluwaseun called for government’s help in a video alleging that the person who facilitated her travelling seized her travelling passport and forced her into hard labour. 

    Mrs Oyetola intervened and ensured the retrieval of Titilayo’s passport as well as arranged for her flight back to Nigeria. 

    She arrived Nigeria on Sunday and was received by the Executive Director of Project Implementation at the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Remi Omowaiye. 

    Read Also: Oyetola, Oyebamiji and the Osun guber equation

    Addressing newsmen after her arrival, Omowaiye disclosed that the rescue was facilitated by Mrs Kafayat who had been an advocate of good life for women and children in and out of government. 

    He said: “When the wife of the Minister heard the predicament of Titilayo, she moved her foundation, Ileri-Oluwa Women and Children Support Initiative to investigate the matter and reach out to her in Cairo. It was established that Titilayo wanted to return to Nigeria. 

    “We secured her passport and also the flight that will take her back to Nigeria. Finally she is back in Nigeria today.”

    Omowaiye charged Nigerians to probe anybody offering to take them out of the shores of Nigeira so that they will not fall in hands those who will force them into hard labour and prostitution. 

  • My success a testament of not giving up – Mercy Aigbe

    My success a testament of not giving up – Mercy Aigbe

    Actress and filmmaker Mercy Aigbe has spoken about her career journey, joys and responsibilities of motherhood, describing it as her greatest source of pride.

    In a recent interview on The Morayo Show, Aigbe emphasised her reliance on faith to navigate the challenges of motherhood and life in general.

    “Wherever I am today is a testament to me not giving up. Being a mother is actually what I am most proud of. I just love being a mother, and I think it is a huge blessing that God has placed the responsibility on me to nurture another human being, and I don’t want to fail at it,” Aigbe said.

    Aigbe, who credits faith for guiding her, said she often asks God for strength and wisdom.

    “Even though I ask God for strength most times, I also ask Him for wisdom. I just love being a mum,” she stated.

    Speaking on the loss of her mother, Mercy Aigbe recalled struggling to accept her passing while abroad.

    “Up until we laid her to rest, I was in denial. I wasn’t in the country when she passed, so my husband called me and said, ‘Babe, there is something I have to tell you,’ and then he said, ‘Your mum has passed,’” she recalled.

    The actress also admitted that the reality of her mother’s death still feels surreal.

    Read Also: Mercy Aigbe, Itele, other celebrities born on New Year’s Day

    “I don’t know how to describe losing her. I still have her clothes intact. It feels like a dream to me. It is indescribable,” she said.

    Aigbe noted that she shared a close bond with her mother and had hoped she would recover from her illness.

    “I was very close to my mum. Even though she had been ill for a while, I was hoping she would get better. It is a pain that never goes away; you just learn to live with it,” she added.

    She said the loss took a toll on her professional life, prompting her to pause filmmaking temporarily.

    “I didn’t produce a movie last December because of the loss of my mum. I knew I wasn’t mentally ready,” Aigbe added.

  • JUST IN: AGF takes over Ozekhome’s alleged forgery case from ICPC

    JUST IN: AGF takes over Ozekhome’s alleged forgery case from ICPC

    The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) has taken over the prosecution of the criminal case brought against Mike Ozekhome (SAN) by the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC).

    The development however, stalled Ozekhome’s planned arraignment on Monday before a HIgh Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on the three-count charge filed against him by the ICPC and in which he is accused of among others, forgery.

    When the case was called, the Director of Public Prosecution of the Federation (DPPF), Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) said he was representing the AGF and informed the court of the AGF’s decision to take over the case from the ICPC.

    Oyedepo said the AGF was acting under his powers as provided in Section 174 of the Constitution.

    ICPC’s lawyer, Osuebeni Akpomisingha (who filed the charge) did not object to the take over of the case by the AGF.

    Read Also: Ozekhome: The heart of the matter 

    Former AGF, Kanu Agabi (SAN) who led a team of lawyers (which comprised 15 SANs) for the defence, also did not object the take over of the case by Fagbemi.

    Upon an application for adjournment by Oyedepo, which was not opposed by Agabi, Jusice

    Peter Kekemeke adjourned till February 24 for arraignment.

    A count in the charge reads: That you Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN (M) ’68yrs’ of No. 53, Nile Street, Maitama, Abuja, sometime in August 2021 or thereabout at Abuja within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, while being a legal practitioner and senior advocate of Nigeria did make a false document, to wit: Nigeria passport A07535463 bearing the name of Mr Shani Tali with intent to use same to support claim of ownership of property known and described as 79 Randall Avenue, London NW2 7SX with intent to commit fraud and you thereby committed an offence contrary to section 363 and punishable under section 364 of the Penal Code CAP 532 laws of the Federal Capital Territory Abuja, 2006.

    Details shortly…

  • FRSC caution motorists on hazy weather, poor visibility

    FRSC caution motorists on hazy weather, poor visibility

    The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has cautioned motorists nationwide to exercise heightened patience following prevailing hazy weather conditions currently being experienced across several parts of the country.

    The FRSC Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, gave the advice in a statement by the Corps Public Education Officer (CPEO), Olusegun Ogungbemide, made available on Monday in Abuja.

    Mohammed explained that the current weather condition had resulted in poor visibility and reduced clarity on major highways.

    He emphasised that the current dust haze, occasioned largely by seasonal atmospheric conditions, posed significant risks to road users, particularly drivers whose vision may be impaired while driving.

    He noted that reduced visibility under such conditions increase the likelihood of road traffic crashes.

    The FRSC boss however, emphasised the need for deliberate caution and strict compliance with traffic regulations.

    He said that hazy weather conditions and dust significantly reduced visibility and reaction time for drivers adding that, at such speeding becomes even more dangerous.

    He therefore appealed to all motorists to slow down, obey speed limits, and drive defensively to avoid preventable crashes.

    “In view of the prevailing reduced visibility conditions associated with the dust haze, we advise all motorists to strictly comply with traffic regulations and adopt safe driving practices at all times.

    “Drivers are specifically urged to reduce speed and comply with prescribed speed limits, especially on highways affected by hazy conditions.

    Read Also: FRSC rescues 17 children from suspected traffickers in Abuja

    “Maintain safe following distances to allow adequate reaction time; and ensure that headlights, tail lights, and brake lights are fully functional and used appropriately, even during daytime where visibility is impaired.

    “In addition to that, they are to avoid dangerous driving behaviours such as wrongful overtaking, over-speeding, and distracted driving; and ensure windscreens are clean and wipers are functional to enhance visibility,” he said.

    The corps marshal also appealed to drivers of commercial vehicles to prioritise passenger safety by avoiding unnecessary speed and ensuring full compliance with road safety regulations.

    The FRSC boss reiterated the corps commitment to safeguarding lives on Nigerian roads and assured the public that its patrol teams were on high alert to monitor traffic flow, enforce compliance, and provide prompt assistance where necessary.

    “Motorists are encouraged to cooperate with FRSC operatives and report emergencies through the corps’ toll-free emergency numbers, 122,” he added.

    (NAN)