The Nation Newspaper

Category: Featured

  • Presidency blasts ADC as Lagos tops global tech ranking

    Presidency blasts ADC as Lagos tops global tech ranking

    The Presidency has taken a swipe at opposition politicians, particularly the African Democratic Congress (ADC), following a new global technology ranking that placed Lagos as the world’s fastest-growing emerging tech ecosystem.

    Reacting to the ranking in a post on his verified X handle, @aonanuga1956, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said opposition figures who habitually rely on negative statistics about Nigeria would be displeased by the latest international recognition.

    “ADC must not read this,” Onanuga wrote, adding that “desperate politicians, always on the lookout for negative statistics, will be unhappy that Tinubu’s Nigeria has recorded a global tech recognition.”

    His remarks followed the release of a global list by Global Statistics, which ranked Lagos number one among the world’s top 20 fastest-growing emerging technology ecosystems.

    Read Also: How Tinubu has impacted Nigerians, by Presidency

    According to the ranking, Lagos topped the list ahead of major cities such as Istanbul in Türkiye, Pune and Mumbai in India and Belo Horizonte in Brazil, among others across Asia, Africa and South America.

    Onanuga framed the recognition as a rebuttal to what he described as persistent negative narratives about Nigeria’s economic and governance outlook, often advanced by opposition politicians.

    The ADC has been among opposition parties critical of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly on economic reforms and governance issues.

    However, the latest ranking underscores Lagos’ growing prominence in the global technology space, reflecting the strength of its startup ecosystem, innovation capacity and expanding role in the international digital economy.

  • Wike, labour unions reach truce, end FCT workers’ strike

    Wike, labour unions reach truce, end FCT workers’ strike

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has brokered a late-night truce with Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), bringing an end to the strike that paralyzed parts of Abuja.

    The development is paving the way for workers to return immediately.

    The agreement was reached around 3:50 am on Tuesday after over three hours of negotiations chaired by the Senate Committee on the FCT, led by Senator Mohammed Bomoi. The meeting started a few minutes before 12:00am.

    In attendance were Wike, the Presidents of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Joe Ajaero and Festus Osifo respectively.

    The scribes of both labour centres as well as other key stakeholders, were also present.

    THE NATION reports that organised labour, comprising the two labour centres, on Monday insisted that there would be no going back on the planned massive protest to press home the demands of FCTA workers.

    Police authorities in the FCT cautioned the movement to reschedule its action in the “interest of safety”, adding that there were plots by the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN/Shi’ites) and other non-state actors to infiltrate and hijack the protest for purposes inimical to public peace and security.   

    The Minister had also obtained an interim court order restraining the NLC and the TUC from embarking on the action.

    According to a statement after the meeting and signed by NLC and TUC, it was agreed that, arising from the strike action, no worker shall be victimized in any manner.

    Upah, who was flanked by the General Secretary of the TUC, Nuhu Toro, and other labour leaders, also disclosed that all outstanding cases at the National Industrial Court (NIC) would be withdrawn immediately.

    He added: “All affiliates are hereby informed that a conciliatory meeting was held between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, at the instance of the Chairman, Senate Committee on FCT, Senator Mohammed Bomoi.

    “At the conclusion of the meeting, the following resolutions were reached: All complaints presented by JUAC members were taken one after the other and fully addressed.


    “The Honourable Minister assured organized labour of mutual respect and sustained engagement going forward.”

    He, however, announced that all workers in the FCT had been directed to resume duties immediately.

    “Consequently, all JUAC members and all affiliates of the TUC and NLC working in the Ministry of the FCT (MFCT) are hereby directed to resume work immediately.

    “All affiliates are enjoined to comply strictly with this directive in the interest of industrial peace and harmony, in good faith”.

  • Electricity subsidy payment: Federal Govt to share cost with states, councils

    Electricity subsidy payment: Federal Govt to share cost with states, councils

    States and councils will henceforth share the payment of electricity subsidies with the Federal Government, which had solely borne the subsidy cost on electricity.

    In 12 months between September 2024 and October 2025, the Federal Government paid N1.98 trillion.

    Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Tanimu Yakubu, announced the plan to share the subsidy cost during a meeting with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) on the 2026 Budget.

    He added that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu wants to ensure that the heavy bill for electricity subsidies is not left for the Federal Government alone to carry.

    Yakubu said: “Subsidy costs must be explicit, tracked and funded, so they do not return as arrears, liquidity crises or hidden liabilities in the power market.

    “Let me be direct. If we want a stable power sector, we must pay for the choices we make. When tariffs are held below cost, a gap is created. That gap is a subsidy. And a subsidy is a bill.”

    He added that when the benefits of such decisions are shared across different levels of government, the costs must also be shared in a clear and agreed way.

    According to him, fair sharing of the burden will encourage better performance in the power sector and stronger support for protecting vulnerable consumers.

    “When everyone carries a fair share of the cost, everyone also has an incentive to support cost-reflective efficiency, targeted protection for the vulnerable, and a power market that can actually deliver,” he said.

    Yakubu explained that the goal of the directive is to ensure that the costs of electricity are tracked and funded so they do not turn into “hidden debts” that ruin the power sector.

    The Budget Office chief stressed that if any level of government decides to keep electricity prices low for citizens, the financial responsibility for such a decision must be clearly agreed and enforced.

    Yakubu also stressed that the costs of electricity subsidies can no longer be treated as the responsibility of the Federal Government alone.

    He told MDAs that they must now clearly show all subsidy-related costs in their budget plans and avoid pushing unpaid obligations into the power market as debts that later create problems for electricity companies and consumers.

    Beyond power subsidies, he said, the Federal Government is changing how projects are treated in the 2026 budget.

    Yakubu noted that projects must be ready to be delivered and, where needed, ready to attract financing before they are included in the budget.

    “If it cannot be implemented, it should not be proposed. If it cannot be measured, it should not be defended,” he said.

    Yakubu warned that listing many projects without proper funding and planning often leads to disappointment for citizens who expect real results on the ground.

    “A long list of projects is not a development strategy. It is often a map of disappointment. What citizens feel is delivery – completed roads, reliable power, functional schools, working hospitals,” the Budget Office chief said.

    He explained that the government is now focusing on proper project financing, which means that every project must be carefully planned, costed and matched with a clear source of funding, whether from the federal budget, partnerships with the private sector or other financial arrangements.

    Yakubu said MDAs must show that their projects are ready, with designs, approvals, procurement plans and clear timelines. They must also explain how each project will be funded and what results Nigerians should expect.

    On government spending rules, he explained that President Tinubu directed a review of the Fiscal Responsibility framework to make it stronger and better suited for current economic conditions.

    “Fiscal rules are not a slogan. They are the guardrails of government. Without guardrails, spending becomes impulsive, debt becomes casual, and the budget becomes a statement of intent rather than a tool of delivery,” Yakubu said.

    Read Also: FG restores electricity generation to 608MW after grid collapse

    He explained that the review will lead to clearer limits on spending, stronger reporting, better control of future financial risks and a closer link between long-term planning and yearly budgets.

    “For MDAs, this changes the conversation. You will not only be asked what you want to spend.

    “You will be asked how it fits the fiscal rules, how it affects sustainability, and what measurable results it will deliver,” he said.

    He urged MDAs to build their proposals around available funds, clearly explain their priorities and disclose any risks, especially future costs that could fall on the government.

    As part of the 2026 budget process, Yakubu said all MDA proposals will be tested to ensure they match national priorities, can be carried out, offer value for money and respect the country’s financial limits.

    He said the overall goal is to make the 2026 budget focus on completing projects and solving real problems for Nigerians, rather than creating long lists of plans that are never fully delivered.

    Fed Govt interventions

    The Federal Government introduced the Presidential Metering Initiative (PMI) to improve efficiency and restore public trust through. Under the PMI, the government has been deploying millions of smart meters to bridge the metering gap, protect vulnerable Nigerians, and make the power sector financially viable.

    The government plans to eliminate estimated billing where consumers are billed based on assumptions rather than actual consumption.

    It also aims to ensure that consumers pay only for the electricity they use, promoting transparency, revenue protection help DisCos recover revenue loss to non-payment and inefficiencies.

    According to Power Minister Adebayo Adelabu, the initiative would also boost local production and foster local meter manufacturing and job creation.

    Adelabu said that the Federal Government had secured about N700 billion, for the rollout of two million meters annually over the next five years under the initiative.

    He dropped the hint at the 2025 Nigerian Energy Forum, with the theme: “Powering Nigeria through investment, innovation and partnership”.

    The fund, as he explained was obtained by the Federal Government from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).

    According to him, the PMI aims to close Nigeria’s metering gap, improve transparency, and enhance the financial stability of the power sector.

    He said the initiative complemented the 3.2 million meters being procured through the World Bank’s Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP), positioning the country to bridge the metering gap within five years.

    The minister said that the Federal Government was leveraging bilateral funding and development finance to attract private investment and expand electricity access in underserved communities, schools, hospitals and public institutions.

    He said: “In the past two years, more than two billion dollars has been mobilised through key programmes, including the World Bank’s DARES, NSIA’s RIPLE, and the JICA fund. “These interventions are accelerating renewable energy deployment and access to reliable power.”

    The Federal Government, through the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), approved the disbursement of N28 billion to DisCos for the procurement and installation of prepaid meters under the Meter Acquisition Fund (MAF) Tranche B scheme.

    NERC said that the amount was for the procurement of meters for all outstanding unmetered Band A customers at no cost.

    This announcement was contained in the Order on the Operationalisation of “Tranche B” of MAF issued by  NERC and signed by its Vice Chairman, Musiliu  Oseni, and Commissioner, Legal, Licensing and  Compliance, Dafe Akpeneye.

    According to the order, the funds approved under Tranche B of MAF are intended to meter all outstanding unmetered Band A customers.

    They also focus on expediting the closure of the metering gap for customers currently classified under Tariff Band B

    The Order said: “The N28 billion shall be allocated in proportion to the respective contributions of the DisCos, and the DisCos are expected to meter all outstanding unmetered Band A customers.

    ”They are also required to expedite the closure of the metering gap for customers currently classified under Tariff Band B.

    “Schedule 1 provides the detailed breakdown of the funds available to each DisCo for the purchase of end-use customer meters.

    “All the meters to be procured and installed under the MAF framework shall be provided at no cost to the customers.”

    The commission said that the order seeks to establish a clear and transparent framework for the implementation of Tranche B of the MAF scheme.

    It also said that the order sought to define the eligibility requirements and obligations of DisCos and Meter Assert Provider (MAP) in accessing and utilising funds.

    Giving a breakdown of the releases of funds accrued under MAF, NERC explained that in April 2024, out of the accrued sum of N21.864 billion, it released  N21 billion to the DisCos for the procurement of meters under tranche A of the MAF scheme.

    It said that the latest is the N28 billion released under tranch B of the MAF scheme.

    Also recently, NERC said that between 600,000 and 700,000 electricity meters are currently available for distribution across the country.

    Oseni, said this at the 4th Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) Stakeholders’ Meeting in Abuja.

    Urging DisCos to speed up the rollout of the meters, Oseni said that government had already made the necessary investments to make the meters available.

    According to him, DisCos should take the responsibility of ensuring that the meters reach customers without delay.

    He said: “There are currently 600,000 to 700,000 meters available in the country. Government has made the investment, so the DisCos need to step up.”

    Oseni, who also spoke on the ongoing transition to State Electricity Regulatory Commissions, called on the DisCos to fully cooperate with the new regulators, saying no operator is above regulatory oversight

  • Wike camp fixes PDP convention for March 28

    Wike camp fixes PDP convention for March 28

    • Turaki group: we will wait for C’Appeal judgment
    • Caretaker takes interest in Oyo State chapter

    The Wike/Anyanwu faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday unfolded plans to hold the National Convention on March 28 and 29 in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    The proposed convention followed last week’s judgment of the Federal High Court in Ibadan affirming Abdulrahman Mohammed caretaker committee as the authentic leadership of the party.

    Justice Uche Agomoh, also voided the November 16, 2025 convention of the PDP in Ibadan and all the decisions taken there from because the convention was stopped by two Federal High Courts judgments.

    Kabiru Turaki (SAN) was elected at the convention along with other members of his National Working Committee (NWC).

    The convention also expelled senior figures of the party, including Nyesome WIke, former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose, Senator Mao Ohunabuwa, among others.

    All these were nullified by the judgment. 

    Justice Agomoh also directed that only a caretaker committee can run the PDP until another convention elects the leadership.

    New members of the National Working Committee (NWC) would be elected at the March 28 convention, according to a statement by the Caretaker Chairman Mohammed and National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu.

    Read Also: Wike inaugurates, NDDC 9.4km road, 1,500-seater hall in Rivers community

    According to the statement,  the decision to hold the convention was taken at the 105th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held at the official residence of the Minister of the FCT Wike.

    The party secretariat, popularly known as Wadata Plaza, has been under lock and key by the police following a bloody battle there between the two factions.

    To restore stability and constitutional order, the NEC approved a comprehensive schedule for party congresses across the country.

    The Ward and Local Government Congresses will hold in February while the State Congresses hold in March 2026.

    The NEC mandated the National Caretaker Committee to immediately “activate Convention Sub-Committees and commence full logistical, administrative, and consultative preparations” to ensure the process remains transparent and credible.

    The NEC reconfirmed the Mohammed-led National Caretaker Committee as the “only lawful national administrative organ of the Party.”

    To prevent any administrative vacuum, the NEC also extended the tenure of Caretaker Committees at the State and Zonal levels.

    The faction welcomed the judgment of the Federal High Court in Ibadan, which validated its current leadership structure.

    It said: “NEC welcomed and affirmed the judgment… which upheld the legality of the Party’s leadership and administrative arrangements and directed the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC to recognize the duly constituted National Caretaker Committee.”

    Mohammed declared that the “cloud of uncertainty” hanging over the party had  fizzled out.

    He described the judgment as a “much-needed legal clarity” that affirmed the legitimacy of his leadership and that of Anyanwu.

    He said: “The judgment has conferred existential credibility on the leadership of our great party as presently constituted. This outcome did not come by accident. It is the reward of your collective decision to stand on the side of the law. “

    The chairman described 2025 as a “testing and refining period,” noting that the party survived internal attempts to by-pass established procedures.

    He said the PDP did not collapse under the pressure of judicial challenges but  emerged “refined, strengthened and reoriented.”

    Mohammed said: “We are today firmly positioned to roll out our activities without hesitation or uncertainty.”

    Urging reconciliation,  he added: “In this process, there are no absolute losers. I call on all members of our great party, at every level, to jettison divisive tendencies and destructive rhetoric. Now is the time to heal wounds and rebuild trust.”

    Mohammed praised Wike for his “intellectual depth” and leadership during the “trying period”, and also extended gratitude to former Senate President Bukola Saraki for his insistence on due process and the “supremacy of the law.”

    Wike, at the meeting declared keen interest in all activities of the Oyo State chapter of the PDP.

    Wike insisted that his concern is the survival, stability and success of the party.

    He said: “Let me declare my interest clearly: I am interested in the survival and success of this party. I am also interested in all the happenings in Oyo State PDP.”

    Wike said the party would wait for the Caretaker Committee to issue clear directives  on the congresses.

    Turaki faction kicks

    However, the National Publicity Secretary of the Turaki faction, Ini Ememobong, dismissed the proposed convention as a ruse.

    He said “Wike and friends are merely living in fools paradise with their proposition. The world knows they are extensions of the APC and therefore cannot claim to be members of the PDP.

    “We await the judgement of the appellate courts and we are hopeful that when the judgements are in, the issues would have been resolved and the court will confirm the reality that the convention held in Ibadan was a reflection of the wishes of the true members of the People’s Democratic Party.”

  • Uzodimma, Buni, Akande, 70 others in APC convention panel

    Uzodimma, Buni, Akande, 70 others in APC convention panel

    Preparations for next month’s National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC) kicked off yesterday.

    A 73-member Central Coordination Committee for the convention was set up by the National Working Committee (NWC) at the party’s secretariat in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    The committee is chaired by the Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma..

    The Chairman of  Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq will serve as vice chairman while former National Caretaker Committee Chairman and Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni will serve as Secretary.

    A statement by the National Secretary,  Senator Ajibola Basiru, said the committee was set up during the NWC’s 183rd meeting, following consultation with various statutory organs and  stakeholders.

    Apart from Uzodimma and Buni, all the remaining 27 governors would serve in the committee.

    Read Also: Uzodimma inaugurates committee to investigate insecurity in Okigwe, rebuild zone

    Other members are former National Chairmen –  Chief Bisi Akande, Senator Adams Oshiomole, and Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje;  Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Senate President,  Barau Jibrin, and Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu.

    Others include  former Senate Presidents and Speakers of House of Representatives, and serving and former principal officers of the two chambers of the National Assembly.

    Ministers who will serve on the committee are Atiku Bagudu (Budget and Planning), General Christopher Musa (Defence),  Mohammed Idris (Information and National Orientation) and Senator Ibrahim Giadam (Police Affairs).

    Basiru said details about the inauguration of the committee would be announced later.

  • FG, states, councils share ₦1.969tr December revenue at FAAC meeting

    FG, states, councils share ₦1.969tr December revenue at FAAC meeting

    The Federal Government, state governments, and local government councils have shared a total of ₦1.969 trillion as revenue generated in December 2025 from the Federation Account.

    This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations in the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, Bawa Mokwa, on Monday after the January 2026 meeting of the Federation Account Allocation Committee, which was held in Abuja.

    According to the statement, the ₦1.969 trillion shared among the three tiers of government was made up of ₦1.084 trillion from statutory revenue, ₦846.507 billion from Value Added Tax, and ₦38.110 billion from the Electronic Money Transfer Levy.

    The FAAC communiqué explained that a total gross revenue of ₦2.585 trillion was recorded in December 2025. From this amount, ₦104.697 billion was deducted as the cost of collection, while ₦511.585 billion went into transfers, refunds, and savings, leaving ₦1.969 trillion for distribution.

    The committee said gross statutory revenue for the month stood at ₦1.631 trillion. This was lower than the ₦1.736 trillion recorded in November 2025, showing a drop of ₦105.202 billion.

    However, revenue from Value Added Tax rose sharply. FAAC reported that ₦913.957 billion was generated from VAT in December 2025, compared to ₦563.042 billion in November, an increase of ₦350.915 billion.

    From the total amount shared, the Federal Government received ₦653.500 billion. The 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory got a combined ₦706.469 billion, while the 774 local government councils received ₦513.272 billion. Oil-producing states were also paid ₦96.083 billion as their 13 percent derivation from mineral revenue.

    Breaking down the statutory revenue of ₦1.084 trillion, the Federal Government took ₦520.807 billion, the states received ₦264.160 billion, and local governments got ₦203.656 billion. The ₦96.083 billion derivation was also paid to the benefiting states from this portion.

    From the ₦846.507 billion VAT pool, the Federal Government received ₦126.976 billion. The states shared ₦423.254 billion, while local governments received ₦296.277 billion.

    Read Also: Edo doesn’t rely on FAAC to pay salaries- Commissioner

    On the ₦38.110 billion generated from the Electronic Money Transfer Levy, the Federal Government got ₦5.717 billion. The states received ₦19.055 billion, and the local government councils were allocated ₦13.338 billion.

    FAAC also gave an update on how different revenue sources performed during the month. It said income from Companies Income Tax, Capital Gains Tax, and Stamp Duties, as well as Import Duty and VAT, recorded strong increases.

    At the same time, the committee noted that revenue from Excise Duty, Petroleum Profit Tax, Hydrocarbon Tax, and the Electronic Money Transfer Levy declined. Oil and gas royalties, as well as Common External Tariff levies and fees, recorded only slight increases.

    The monthly FAAC allocation remains a major source of funding for many states and local governments, especially for paying workers’ salaries and running basic services.

    The latest distribution is expected to support government activities across the country in the coming weeks.

  • Police urge NLC to shelve Tuesday’s planned protest

    Police urge NLC to shelve Tuesday’s planned protest

    The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command on Monday advised the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) FCT chapter to rescheduled Tuesday’s planned peaceful protest.  

    NLC had fixed Tuesday to protest over unpaid allowances to workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

    A statement issued by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josehine Adeh said the development is in the overriding interest of public safety.

    Read Also: NLC, TUC issue FG 14-day ultimatum overdelayed implementation of CONHESS

    Adeh said, “The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command is aware of a planned peaceful protest by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) FCT Council, scheduled to hold tomorrow, Tuesday, 3rd February 2026, within the Federal Capital Territory.

    “While the Command recognizes and respects the constitutional rights of citizens to peaceful assembly and protest, and remains committed to providing adequate security for all lawful activities, intelligence reports at the disposal of the Police indicate plans by the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria and other non-state actors to infiltrate and hijack the protest for purposes inimical to public peace and security.

    “In view of the above, and in the overriding interest of public safety, the FCT Police Command respectfully appeals to the organizers of the planned protest to consider rescheduling the activity to a later date and time. This measure is aimed at forestalling any breakdown of law and order, while also ensuring that the rights of other residents to safety, freedom of movement, and the conduct of lawful daily activities are not infringed upon.

    “The Command assures residents of the Federal Capital Territory of its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property and urges all citizens to continue to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the collective effort to maintain peace and security.”

  • Dangote, NNPCL seal gas supply deal

    Dangote, NNPCL seal gas supply deal

    An enhanced gas supply deal that will ensure adequate supply to meet ongoing expansion projects by Dangote Group has been signed by the Dangote Industries Limited (DIL) and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

    The deal saw three subsidiaries of DIL – Dangote Petroleum Refinery, Dangote Fertiliser Plant and Dangote Cement Plc – scaling up their Gas Sales and Purchase Agreements (GSPA) with two subsidiaries of the NNPC- Nigerian Gas Marketing Limited and NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company Limited (NGIC).

    The upscaled supply agreement is expected to support Dangote Group’s Vision 2030, resulting in increased output, better and cleaner energy supply.

    The agreements were signed at the unveiling of the NNPC Gas Master Plan (GMP) 2026, tagged NGMP 2026 held at the NNPC Towers at the weekend in Abuja.

     Managing Director, Dangote Petroleum Refinery, Mr. David Bird, signed on behalf of the refinery, while the Group Managing Director of Dangote Cement Plc, Mr. Arvid Pathak, signed on behalf of the cement company. Mr. Mustapha Matawalle signed on behalf of Dangote Fertiliser FZE.

    Bird said that the agreement demonstrated the refinery’s bold steps to expand its capacity.

    According to him, the agreements marked a critical milestone in the expansion drive as well as a proactive measure to lock in vast energy requirements for the anticipated increase in its production capacity.

    Pathak described the agreement as an enabler of DCP’s strategic objectives.

    READ ALSO: The men who ruined a republic

    He outlined that the agreement guarantees the gas required to support the drive towards CNG adoption as auto gas and to meet the increasing gas demand as local production capacities are expanded.

    He added that the partnership also promotes the adoption of cleaner fuel for both auto gas through CNG and gas to support increased production output.

    Dangote Fertiliser FZE stated that the agreement would support its fertiliser capacity expansion projects, given that fertiliser is a product of natural gas.

    Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, described the GMP Master Plan as a deliberate pivot from policy articulation to disciplined execution, anchored on commercial viability and integrated sector-wide coordination.

    He said: “Today’s launch is not merely the unveiling of a document; it represents a deliberate shift towards a more integrated, commercially driven, and execution-focused gas sector, aligned with Nigeria’s development aspirations.

    “Nigeria is fundamentally a gas Nation. With one of the largest proven gas reserves in Africa, our challenge has never been potential, but translation: translating resources into reliable supply, infrastructure into value, and policy into measurable outcomes for our economy and our people. The Gas Master Plan speaks directly to this challenge”.

    Ekpo further noted that the plan’s strong focus on supply reliability, infrastructure expansion, domestic and export market flexibility, and strategic partnerships aligns seamlessly with the Federal Government’s Decade of Gas Initiative, positioning natural gas as the backbone of Nigeria’s energy security, industrialisation, and just energy transition.

    NNPC/L GCEO) Bashir Ojulari, described the NNPC Gas Master Plan 2026 as a bold, effective execution-anchored roadmap designed to unlock Nigeria’s immense gas potential and elevate the country into a globally competitive gas hub.

    Ojulari noted that with about 210 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) of proven gas reserves and an upside potential of up to 600 Tcf, Nigeria possesses one of the most consequential hydrocarbon basins in the world; one reinforced by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and the Federal Government’s gas-centric energy transition agenda.

    He said: “The Plan is structured not just to deliver – but to exceed- the Presidential mandate of increasing national gas production to 10 billion cubic feet per day by 2027 and 12 billion cubic feet per day by 2030, while catalysing over 60 billion dollars in new investments across the oil and gas value chain by 2030”.

    He explained that the plan prioritises cost optimisation, operational excellence, and systematic advancement of resources from 3P to bankable 2P reserves, while strengthening gas supply to power generation, CNG, LPG, Mini-LNG, and critical industrial off-takers.

    He reaffirmed his personal commitment as chief sponsor of the initiative, stressing that the company has adopted a more collaborative, investor-centric approach in shaping the NGMP 2026, with strong alignment to industry stakeholders, partners, and investors.

  • Gen. Musa: how coup attempt was foiled at planning stage

    Gen. Musa: how coup attempt was foiled at planning stage

    • ‘Doing a coup now is impossible… Nigerians would have resisted it’

    A joint monitoring approach enabled the Armed Forces to foil a planned coup, the Defence Minister, General Christopher Musa, said last night.

    According to him, a “disgruntled” Colonel, who failed his examination for promotion to the rank of Brigadier-General, initiated the plot and dragged others into it.

    The rumour of an attempted coup broke in October last year, but the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) at the time dismissed it, saying there was no such development.

    However, last month, the DHQ confirmed that there was indeed an attempted coup and that investigations had indicted 16 officers who are now to face court-martial.

    Gen. Musa, who spoke on Channels Television last night, was the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) at the time the plot was uncovered.

    He explained that the military did not immediately confirm the coup attempt when the rumour surfaced because of the need for a thorough investigation to uncover those behind it and to avoid arresting innocent officers.

    READ ALSO: The men who ruined a republic

    According to him, it was better not to rush into admitting the existence of a coup plot until investigations revealed how it was planned and who masterminded it.

    He described the plotters as “a bunch of unserious individuals” who grossly underestimated Nigeria’s democracy and military cohesion. He said security services had to closely monitor the suspected coupists to gather concrete evidence against them.

    Investigations, he said, revealed that the planning of the coup began before the advent of the Tinubu Administration in 2023.

    He dismissed claims that the plot was a reaction to current governance, saying: “These plans were hatched even before the President took office, once it was clear he had won the election.”

    Describing the plot as potentially bloody, Musa said the coup was carefully monitored and dismantled before execution.

    He added that he was personally listed as a target for arrest or assassination by the coupists.

    “I was also a target. I was supposed to be arrested, and if I refused, I was to be shot. But that is the nature of the job,” he said.

    According to him, the plot was driven by a disgruntled Colonel who failed to meet promotion requirements and attempted to recruit other dissatisfied elements within the system.

    Most of those involved, he said, have been arrested, while international agencies, including Interpol, were tracking remaining civilian collaborators.

    He, however, declined to name the indicted Colonel.

    “The Armed Forces promotion system is strict. He didn’t qualify and decided to exploit others who felt aggrieved.

    “Unfortunately, some young officers were misled and now face serious consequences,” Gen. Musa said, stressing that the military acted strictly on facts, not speculation.

    “This investigation was holistic, involving the DIA, NIA, DSS and other agencies. We were deliberate and painstaking because coup allegations are grave and must be proven beyond doubt,” he said.

    He maintained that executing a coup in modern-day Nigeria is nearly impossible, saying that the military is united and strongly committed to democracy.

    “You can’t just wake up and attempt a coup in Nigeria today. Even Nigerians would have resisted them without the Armed Forces. The era of military takeovers is over,” he said.

    On the welfare of families of the arrested officers, the Defence Minister said the Armed Forces were taking steps to ensure they were not unduly punished for the actions of their relatives.

    “Sometimes people forget they have families. We have briefed them and are ensuring their welfare is protected,” he added.

    Addressing broader security concerns, Gen. Musa said insecurity persists because of the complex nature of modern warfare, stressing that casualties are inevitable in active conflict zones.

    “In war, nobody is immune. The enemy also wants to survive. What matters is our ability to neutralise threats quickly,” he said.

    Gen. Musa added that the attempted coup had prompted a review and strengthening of the presidential security architecture.

    “Such incidents expose gaps. Once identified, you strengthen them. That is exactly what we are doing,” he said, reaffirming the military’s loyalty to the Constitution and its resolve to defend Nigeria’s democracy at all costs.

    On insecurity in the country, Gen. Musa said some individuals and communities were shielding terrorists and criminals.

    He urged Nigerians to stop introducing primordial sentiments when criminality is involved.

    Confirming that Sambisa Forest has been reclaimed by troops, Gen. Musa noted that terrorists usually flee to neighbouring countries when pressure is mounted on them.

    He said Nigeria must move beyond divisive narratives rooted in geography and ethnicity, warning that such thinking continues to hold the country back.

    “Every day we hear North, South, East and West. It does not help us. How long are we going to continue like this?

    “When you travel outside the country, you see even smaller nations moving forward,” he said, citing Ethiopia’s transformation as an example.

    He stressed that Nigeria is not as badly positioned as often portrayed, noting that only a few individuals project negative narratives about the country.

    “Very few people give Nigeria a bad name globally, but we don’t celebrate the many Nigerians doing exceptionally well across all fields.

    “Once you fail to celebrate the good, you create space for the bad,” he said.

    On recent coup-related developments in the region, Gen. Musa said those involved acted foolishly and would face the consequences.

    “Anyone who attempts a coup must be ready for the consequences. That is how it works,” he said.

    He warned against reviving ethnic interpretations of past conflicts, insisting that Nigeria must draw lessons from history rather than dwell on it.

    “We cannot, in 2026, still be talking about Biafra, coups and the civil war. So many people died on both sides.

    “Everyone suffered losses. But no nation develops amid constant internal wrangling,” he said.

    Gen. Musa defended the current administration, saying President Bola Tinubu has taken bold decisions that are beginning to yield results.

    “Things are gradually picking up. The dollar is dropping. New policies have been introduced. Some people will always complain, especially those who benefited from the old system and now feel excluded,” he said.

    He appealed to elders, religious leaders and traditional rulers to allow the younger generation chart a new course.

    “Let us stop poisoning young minds with past grievances. Mistakes were made on all sides. We must draw a line, leave the past behind and focus on the future,” he said, referencing China’s transformation under Chairman Mao as an example of national reset.

    Gen. Musa also highlighted Nigeria’s regional security role, saying Nigerian forces in December intervened to prevent a coup in the Benin Republic following a direct request from its president.

    “It was a direct call to President Tinubu. With his approval, we mobilised and, within 12 hours, secured the situation.

    “Our troops are still there and are being withdrawn gradually,” he said.

    The minister confirmed that Nigerian troops were still on the ground in the Benin Republic, adding that plans were underway for their withdrawal.

    He said the operation demonstrated Nigeria’s military capacity and underscored the need to build domestic defence capabilities through strategic partnerships.

    On Nigeria’s defence cooperation with Turkey and other allies, Gen. Musa said the focus is shifting from procurement to local production.

    “We don’t want to keep buying equipment and importing everything. This time, we want co-production using our Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), so we can build capacity, create jobs, save foreign exchange and support security across the region,” he said.

    According to him, the agreements cover military education, exchange programmes, training, co-production of hardware, maintenance and availability of spare parts.

    “It is a holistic approach. If we get it right, Nigeria can support neighbouring countries and strengthen security across Africa,” Gen. Musa added.

    On political affiliation, the Defence Minister indicated he might formally join the All Progressives Congress (APC), noting that he was transitioning from a military career into politics.

    He added that the confidence reposed in him through his appointment as minister shortly after his retirement made it imperative for him to give full support to the President.

  • 80 Kurmin Wali abductees escape from kidnappers’ den

    80 Kurmin Wali abductees escape from kidnappers’ den

    • Bandits blow up police station, kill man, abduct people in Niger

    Eighty of the 177 worshippers abducted from three churches in Kurmin Wali,  Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State have escaped from their captors and reunited with their families.

    Eleven had escaped shortly after they were taken away on  January 18.  Kurmin Wali  Village Head Ishaku Dan’azumi, made this known yesterday.

    Also yesterday, the Niger State Police Command confirmed that its station in  Agwara was attacked with a dynamite by bandits. A church was also torched.

    The Nation also gathered that a nursing mother and her four children were abducted by the same bandits in the same community, while an elderly man was killed by the same bandits in Sokonbara, a nearby village in Kabe.

    Kurmin Wali  Village Head said the latest escapees(80)  first took refuge in neighbouring communities before returning home. He added that the remaining   86 other worshippers are still being held in the forest by the bandits.

    Dan’azumi, however, said it was unfortunate that even as the victims’ families are going through serious trauma,  some people are trying to politicise our situation.’’ 

    The village head  appealed to the government and the military ‘’to   expedite action to secure the release  of the remaining 86 people still in the bandits’ camp.”

    He lamented that Kurmin Wali and neighbouring villages had  long lived in fear of   bandits and kidnappers

    Kaduna State Police Public Relations Officer,   Mansir Hassan, said the police would soon issue a comprehensive report on it.

    There were conflicting accounts of the attack on the churches.

    READ ALSO: Mutfwang, Plateau APC and 2027 battle

    While the Kaduna State Police Command and the Kajuru Local Government Council initially dismissed reports of the mass abduction, community leaders and church officials insisted that scores of worshippers were taken away during services.

    The controversy deepened when a list of 177 alleged abductees, said to have been compiled by families and church leaders, surfaced following a public challenge by the Police Commissioner for concrete details.

    Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory( FCT), Rev. John   Hayab, had earlier said that over 160 worshippers were abducted. 

    Residents maintained that the gunmen stormed the churches-Catholic, ECWA and Cherubim and Seraphim- shut the gates and marched congregants into the bush.

     Mother, four children abducted

    Niger State   Police Command  Public Relations Officer,  Abiodun, said the bandits first attacked the police station before moving to the UMC Church in Agwara. 

    He said:  “On 1/2/26 at about 3.40 am, armed bandits invaded Agwara community, attacked the Police station where they were engaged by the tactical team on the ground, used suspected dynamite to set the station ablaze, having overpowered the team.

    “ The bandits later moved to UMC Church in the community, burnt part of the church, proceeded to other areas and abducted about five persons whose identity is yet to be ascertained. Monitoring continues; further development will be communicated.”

    Sources told The Nation that the nursing mother and her children are members of Mallam Ahmed Burade. Barade, a former Niger State Union of Teachers (NUT) chairman and current headmaster of a primary school in Agwara, was said to have also been abducted, but he escaped during a clash between the bandits and local vigilantes.

    The bandits, according to one of the sources, headed for  Sokonbara near  Kabe, where they killed the elderly man before looting food supplies and valuables.