President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of veteran journalist and public affairs analyst, Louis Odion, as Executive Commissioner (Operations) of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).
The appointment, conveyed in an official letter dated August 12, 2025, and signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, is subject to confirmation by the Senate.
According to the letter, Odion is to immediately assume duties in an acting capacity pending the fulfilment of the confirmation requirement.
“I am pleased to inform you that His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, has approved your appointment as Executive Commissioner (Operations), Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), subject to confirmation by the Senate, in accordance with the provisions of Sections 4 (2)(c) and 5 (1) of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission Act, 2018.
“You are, however, to commence functioning in acting capacity until the condition precedent stated above is fulfilled. Please, accept my congratulations and best wishes on your appointment”, the letter read.
The FCCPC is the Federal Government agency tasked with safeguarding consumer rights, ensuring fair competition in the marketplace, and protecting the public from unfair trade practices.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has unveiled plans by his administration to produce 10 million tonnes of liquid steel annually by 2030 and generate over 500,000 jobs.
He disclosed this at the inaugural National Stakeholders Summit on Steel Development with the theme “Rebuilding and Consolidating Nigeria’s Steel Industry: Collaborative Action for Sustainable Growth and Global Competitiveness,” in Abuja on Wednesday.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President said the target was part of his renewed hope agenda for a self-reliant and industrialised nation.
The President maintained that the steel industry is the key to unlocking Nigeria’s potential as it symbolises so many unrealised hopes.
He insisted that his administration has laid a robust foundation for the revitalisation of the country’s steel industry through strategic policy decisions, substantial investments, international collaborations and intensified efforts to foster private sector participation in driving economic growth.
According to the President, “To ensure a structured development, the administration has outlined comprehensive roadmaps such as a ten-year plan for the overall revival of Nigeria’s steel sector as well as a three-year specific plan for the operationalisation of the Ajaokuta Steel Plant” he noted.
“These plans encompass infrastructure development, regulatory reforms, and capacity building to foster a conducive environment for the steel industry’s growth”
He then called for synergy among stakeholders in the sector to enable the country to address some challenges facing the industry in Nigeria.
The Chairman Senate Committee on Steel Development, Senator Patrick Ndubueze, pledged the National Assembly’s unwavering support for the growth and revitalisation of the country’s steel sector, urging stakeholders and participants at the summit to turn ideas into tangible actions.
Highlighting the Ajaokuta Steel Complex, the lawmaker noted that over 20 of its 38 completed factories can operate independently if central utilities are restored.
He then called for unbundling and concessioning these factories to capable Nigerians or verified foreign firms. He also faulted the past wholesale concessions that undermined the sector.
In his welcome address, the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, said that revitalising local steel production would reduce Nigeria’s $4 billion annual import bill.
To actualised this, the Minister disclosed incentives to attract investors, which include capital allowances, import duty exemptions, tax holidays, and policies ensuring 30 percent of steel inputs for government projects are sourced locally are being introduced by the government.
Audu also cited public-private partnerships, industrial parks, mini-LNG plants, and collaboration with the Ministry of Defence to manufacture military hardware, as parts of efforts at stimulating local raw material consumption, generate jobs, and establish Nigeria as a regional steel hub.
In his goodwill message, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake emphasized that the end of the era of business as usual in the Solid Minerals sector, stressing that the sector is no longer a playground for opportunists but a driver of national and industrial growth and continental leadership.
He revealed a new industrial trajectory of the sector, with a $600 million lithium processing plant near the Kaduna-Niger border, a $200 million refinery near Abuja set for imminent commissioning and two additional plants in Nasarawa will be operational by the end of 2025.
Alake also said that the administration of President Tinubu has sanitised the sector in the last two years with over 2,350 mining marshals deployed, more than 300 illegal operators arrested, and over 20 convictions secured.
At the continental level, Alake said the country’s leadership at the African Mineral Strategy Group has led to the adoption of a cluster-based approach integrating mining, processing, and manufacturing to ensure competitiveness, job creation, and export readiness in Africa.
Similarly, Minister of Transportation, Sai’du Ahmed Alkali, described the summit as a timely forum to implement the 10-year national steel roadmap, optimise private steel rolling mills, and leverage Nigeria’s vast natural resources within a strong regulatory framework.
Also, the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Olajumoke Oduwole, emphasised the untapped potential across the steel value chain, from iron ore mining to steel rolling, fabrication, and production of critical inputs for construction, automotive, energy, and manufacturing sectors.
She noted that domestic value addition, international partnerships, technology transfer, and targeted reforms will reduce import dependence, create jobs, and build Nigeria’s path toward a $1 trillion economy by 2030.
Earlier, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Steel Development, Dr. Chris Isokpunwu, said the summit will engage robust discussions, share innovative ideas, and deliberate on practical solutions to reposition the steel sector for global competitiveness.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed a sweeping review of deductions and revenue retention practices by Nigeria’s major revenue-generating agencies, in a bid to boost public savings, improve spending efficiency, and unlock resources for growth.
The order, issued at Wednesday’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja, covers the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Nigeria Customs Service, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC).
The President’s directive was disclosed to journalists by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun.
According to Edun, President Tinubu specifically called for a reassessment of NNPC’s 30% management fee and 30% frontier exploration deduction under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
He tasked the Economic Management Team, chaired by Edun, to present actionable recommendations to FEC on the optimal way forward.
The President said the directive was part of efforts to sustain reforms that have dismantled economic distortions, restored policy credibility, enhanced resilience, and bolstered investor confidence.
According to him, these reforms have created a transparent, competitive business environment attractive to local and foreign investors in critical sectors such as infrastructure, oil and gas, health, and manufacturing.
Reaffirming the Renewed Hope Agenda, Tinubu said Nigeria’s goal of a $1 trillion economy by 2030 requires growth of at least 7% annually from 2027 — a target he described as “not just economic, but a moral imperative,” as higher growth is the surest path to tackling poverty.
He cited the July 2025 IMF Article IV report, which he said endorsed Nigeria’s economic trajectory and the need for investment-led growth.
Highlighting grassroots empowerment, the President pointed to the Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme — a ward-based initiative covering all 8,809 wards across the country — designed to lift economically active citizens through micro-level poverty reduction strategies in collaboration with states, local governments, and private partners.
Tinubu noted that public investment accounts for just 5% of GDP due to low savings, stressing that optimising “every available naira” is vital, especially under current global liquidity constraints.
Edun said macroeconomic indicators were improving, with a more stable exchange rate, easing inflation, rising revenues, and debt-to-GDP ratios now within range.
He described savings as the foundation of investment and said the President’s directive aims to quickly raise public sector savings by reviewing deductions and retention practices.
Meanwhile, Edun said he presented two memoranda to Council — a $125 million Islamic Development Bank financing for infrastructure in Abia State, covering 35 kilometres of roads in Umuahia and 126 kilometres in Aba; and a plan to refinance ₦4 trillion in outstanding electricity sector obligations.
The electricity debt resolution will be executed in phases, with the first phase expected within three to four weeks under the coordination of the Debt Management Office and other agencies.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to reposition Nigeria’s steel sector as the nation’s industrial heart and a key driver of economic diversification.
Declaring open the Inaugural Stakeholders Summit on the Development of the Steel Sector in Abuja on Wednesday, the President—represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima—outlined a raft of initiatives aimed at reviving long-stalled projects and creating new industrial capacities.
According to a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Tinubu said the administration had since reconfigured the Ministry of Steel Development to lead the industrialisation push, signalling “seriousness to extract, process, and commercialise our God-given endowments.”
Citing the Ajaokuta Steel Company as a long-held national dream, he vowed: “We are not here to mourn missed opportunities. We are here to make the future.”
Among ongoing efforts, President Tinubu listed a Memorandum of Understanding with Tyazhpromexport (TPE) and partners to rehabilitate and operate both the Ajaokuta Steel Plant and the National Iron Ore Mining Company in Itakpe.
He added that technical and financial audits—approved by the Bureau of Public Procurement—were underway to guide investor selection.
The President also announced $500 million worth of mini-LNG plants being built in Ajaokuta in partnership with NNPC Limited and the private sector, as well as plans to produce military hardware in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria.
He said an Industrial Park, Free Trade Zone, gas park and military-industrial complex were being developed in the area to anchor its role as Nigeria’s “industrial heart.”
On the Aluminium Smelter Company of Nigeria in Ikot-Abasi, Tinubu disclosed that a $465 million investment proposal was under review, while the management of Delta Steel Company (now Premium Steel and Mines) had pledged to begin operations within 18 months.
He also confirmed a $400 million investment by Stellar Steel in Ogun State to produce hot-rolled coils and plates.
The President projected that by 2030, Nigeria would produce 10 million tonnes of liquid steel annually, creating over 500,000 direct and indirect jobs.
He appealed to private investors, academia and skilled workers to join the government in the transformation drive, stressing: “Government can lead. But the private sector must invest.”
Earlier, Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, highlighted the sector’s vast market potential and incentives, while Senate Committee Chairman on Steel Development, Senator Patrick Ndubueze, described the summit as a key platform for shaping the steel value chain.
Other ministers, including Dr. Jumoke Oduwole (Industry, Trade and Investment), Dele Alake (Solid Minerals Development), Sa’idu Ahmed Alkali (Transportation) and Adegboyega Oyetola (Marine and Blue Economy), underscored the sector’s importance to import substitution, local value creation and West African industrial leadership under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has said the President Bola Tinubu administration will continue to strengthen the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) because of its strategic value to the success of the country’s national security architecture.
The NSA stated this in his remarks at the commissioning of 46 new vehicles distributed to strategic commands and formations of NDLEA on Wednesday at the Agency’s national headquarters in Abuja.
Ribadu also commended the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) and his team for their sustained commitment, discipline and energy in transforming the NDLEA into a result-oriented force against one of the most destabilising threats to Nigeria’s national well-being, illicit drugs.
He said, “I commend the Chairman, General Mohamed Buba Marwa, for his discipline, commitment, and transformative leadership. Under his watch, NDLEA has become a result-oriented force addressing the grave threats posed by illicit drugs that undermine our national security, social stability, and public health.
“This event is not just about commissioning vehicles; without the mobility to swiftly reach danger points, intercept traffickers and move resources where they are most needed, our fight is severely constrained. The link between drug trafficking and insecurity is systemic. Criminal gangs thrive on drug profits. Insurgents and armed groups fund their activities with it. Countless young Nigerians fall victim to addiction, with devastating consequences for families and communities.
“This is why the renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu prioritises drug control as a pillar of our national security strategy. The President’s unwavering support through funding, inter-agency cooperation, and policy alignment has directly enabled today’s milestone.
“These vehicles will be deployed nationwide to amplify NDLEA’s operational presence, strengthen deterrence, and ensure that no trafficker escapes justice. As the lead agency for drug control, arrest, seizure, and investigation and prosecution, NDLEA will continue to receive the full backing of the Office of National Security Adviser, which will also coordinate its efforts with other security and regulatory agencies, including the National Police Force, Nigerian Customs Service, and NAFDAC.”
He challenged NDLEA officers to view the commissioning as a call to action: to do more, remain vigilant, act within the law and uphold the highest standards of professionalism.
“The NDLEA is not only building lives, but also restoring dignity and shaping national policy. In light of the pandemic, this commissioning is a call to action. Use these resources responsibly, act within the law, and remain vigilant,” he said.
In his welcome address, the Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA said the event is symbolic of the continuous effort to reposition the Agency as a modern, efficient and respected organisation.
He said it was also a reflection of the sustained commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to equipping institutions that stand on the front line of the country’s national security and public health.
“To that extent, today’s event is a milestone, as NDLEA is now counted among a distinguished group of security and drug law enforcement agencies around the world that are not only visible in their operations but equally respected and making impacts”, Marwa noted.
He expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his unwavering and strategic support for the Agency.
“The procurement of these vehicles was made possible by the fiscal backing of this administration, which continues to demonstrate strong resolve in addressing the root causes of insecurity and social dislocation.
“Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the President has prioritised national stability, institutional reform and the safety of every Nigerian life. That trust motivates us to deliver even more”, he stated.
While explaining the importance of the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking to national security, Marwa said, “We know from both intelligence and experience that drug abuse and trafficking are central to many security challenges in the country.
“The link is undeniable: kidnapping, armed robbery, insurgency and cult violence are all fuelled by illicit substances. Drug trafficking emboldens perpetrators, strips away moral restraint and replaces hope with recklessness.
“No serious approach to national security can ignore drug control, and this is why we pursue our mandate with focus, determination, and the results are there to show.”
He noted that in just two years of President Tinubu’s administration, the NDLEA has achieved significant results.
“We have arrested 40,887 drug offenders, including 45 drug barons, leading to the seizure of over 5.5 million kilograms of assorted illicit substances, all recovered from our streets, communities, warehouses, border routes and ports nationwide, with 704.445 hectares of cannabis farms, hidden deep in forests, destroyed.
“We have equally secured the conviction of 8,682 traffickers and kingpins alike, ensured their assets forfeit to the Federal Government through the court process, thus sending a clear message that drug crimes attract legal consequences.
“Equally important is the fact that 24,173 drug users have been treated and rehabilitated in our 30 rehab centres located across the country while 8,698 War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) sensitisation activities aimed at preventing people from going into substance abuse were carried out in schools, worship centres, work places, motor parks, and communities among others within the same period. These created a fair balance between our drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts.”
He said the achievements of the past two years reflect both the resilience of the Agency’s personnel and its growing capacity. While noting that the fight against illicit drugs is far from over, the NDLEA boss said the “illicit drug economy continues to evolve, exploiting vulnerable youths, porous borders and sometimes complicit actors.
“To remain effective, our response must also evolve – with sharper intelligence, stronger community engagement and, critically, improved mobility and logistics.”
In his remarks, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN commended President Tinubu for making the achievements recorded by the leadership of Marwa at the NDLEA in the past two years possible.
According to him, “Without an understanding President, it would be very difficult to have this type of gathering today. So, my first appreciation goes to him. There is a very, very close nexus between drug trafficking and all the crimes that we have.
“The Chairman has chronicled some of the effects of these illicit drugs. They embolden criminals. And when the thing wears off, then you discover that they are just ordinary mortals like you and me.
“And that is why attention ought to be given to this fight against illicit drugs. And when I follow NDLEA activities, the arrests, the fights they put on, you know, I’m always very happy. The credit, of course, goes to the leadership of Gen Marwa. This is not your first time doing this. You have done it elsewhere, and you are doing it again. I’m always very pleased.
“And you know, of course, my position when it comes to NDLEA, whenever we are asked to showcase our report card, I’m very quick to say put NDLEA first. This is what you have done. So, I’m happy about what you are doing. And the morale of the staff you are boosting is very important. If there is no morale booster, you can’t get anything done.”
Also speaking, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa said the NDLEA has consistently demonstrated courage, professionalism and resilience in confronting the threats posed by drugs and substance abuse in very challenging circumstances.
“The procurement of these operational vehicles is therefore a significant boost to the Agency’s operational response capability and overall effectiveness in the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse. It is my firm belief that this investment will translate to greater deterrent to those who seek to profit from this destructive trade,” he said.
In his goodwill message at the occasion, the Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement, Dr. Adebowale Adedokun congratulated President Tinubu for putting the likes of Marwa in positions of leadership in various agencies. He said the event is a testament to Marwa’s leadership style and belief in Nigeria.
“Today marks a remarkable event in our lives. BPP is a worthy partner of NDLEA. The vehicles you see today were thoroughly done through due process. In fact, I am going to say NDLEA, for me, is an example for other agencies of government. So, I congratulate the entire management of NDLEA for leading the way. We can testify to you that these vehicles have gone through standardizations and they are meant for fit, for purpose.
A total of 38 SUVs were distributed to Zonal Commands, Strategic Commands and State Commands across the country while 10 sedan cars were given to 10 directorates.
No fewer than 15 newly promoted Commanders of Narcotics (CN) were decorated with their new rank of Assistant Commander General of Narcotics (ACGN) by the NDLEA boss at the end of the ceremony.
President Bola Tinubu will continue to strengthen the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) because of its strategic value to the success of the country’s national security architecture.
The National Security Adviser, (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, said this in his remarks at the inauguration of 48 new vehicles distributed to strategic commands and formations of NDLEA on Wednesday in Abuja .
The NSA also commended the NDLEA Chairman, retired, Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa and his team for their sustained commitment, discipline and energy.
Ribadu noted that under Marwa, NDLEA has become a result-oriented force addressing the grave threats posed by illicit drugs that undermine our national security, social stability, and public health.
“Under his watch, NDLEA has become a result-oriented force addressing the grave threats posed by illicit drugs that undermine our national security, social stability, and public health.
“This event is not just about commissioning vehicles, without the mobility to swiftly reach danger points, intercept traffickers and move resources where they are most needed, our fight is severely constrained.
“The link between drug trafficking and insecurity is systemic. Criminal gangs thrive on drug profits, Insurgents and armed groups fund their activities with it.
“Countless young Nigerians fall victim to addiction, with devastating consequences for families and communities.This is why the renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President prioritises drug control as a pillar of our national security strategy, “he said.
Ribadu emphasised that the President’s unwavering support through funding, inter-agency cooperation, and policy alignment had directly enabled the milestone.
He said that the vehicles would be deployed nationwide to amplify NDLEA’s operational presence, strengthen deterrence, and ensure that no trafficker escapes justice.
“As the lead agency for drug control, arrest, seizure, and investigation and prosecution, NDLEA will continue to receive the full backing of the Office of National Security Adviser.
“This in which will also coordinate its efforts with other security and regulatory agencies, including the National Police Force, Nigerian Customs Service, NAFDAC, “he added.
The NSA, however, challenged NDLEA officers to view the inauguration as a call to action: to do more, remain vigilant, act within the law and uphold the highest standards of professionalism.
“The NDLEA is not only building lives, but also restoring dignity and shaping national policy. In light of the pandemic, this commissioning is a call to action.
“Use these resources responsibly, act within the law, and remain vigilant,”he maintained.
In his welcome address, Marwa said that the event was symbolic of the continuous effort to reposition the Agency as a modern, efficient and respected organisation.
This, he said was as well as a reflection of the sustained commitment of the Tinubu’s administration to equipping institutions that stand on the front line of the country’s national security and public health.
“To that extent, today’s event is a milestone, as NDLEA is now counted among a distinguished group of security and drug law enforcement agencies around the world.
“NDLEA is not only visible in its operations but equally respected and making impacts,”he emphasised.
The NDELA boss expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his unwavering and strategic support for the Agency.
He said that the procurement of the vehicles was made possible by the fiscal backing of this administration, which continued to demonstrate strong resolve in addressing the root causes of insecurity and social dislocation.
“Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the President has prioritised national stability, institutional reform and the safety of every Nigerian life. That trust motivates us to deliver even more,”he added.
The New Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a total of 38 SUVs were distributed to Zonal Commands, Strategic Commands and State Commands across the country while 10 sedan cars were given to 10 directorates.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sworn in Professor Dakas C.J. Dakas as Chairman of the Nigerian Law Reform Commission (NLRC) and Dr. Uchenna Eugene Okolocha as Commissioner representing the South-South.
The brief ceremony took place in the Council Chambers of the State House, Abuja, shortly before the commencement of the ongoing Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting.
Professor Dakas, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Jos, is a former Attorney-General of Plateau State.
Meanwhile, the Federal Executive Council has mourned the death of former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbe.
Before the start of the Council meeting, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, formally announced the passing of Chief Ogbe, who died on August 9, 2025, at the age of 78 years.
Describing the late Ogbe as “a patriot who served Nigeria meritoriously and with dedication,” Akume recalled his contributions to national development in various roles, including Minister of Communications in the Second Republic (1982–1983) and Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party from 2001 to January 2005.
A respected politician and writer, Ogbe authored five plays, three of which were published. The Council observed a minute’s silence in his honour.
Present at the ongoing Council meeting are Vice President Kashim Shettima; National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Didi Walson-Jack; and ministers.
Mr Pius Akuta, Executive Secretary/CEO, Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) says President Bola Tinubu kept to his campaign promise by removing fuel subsidy.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Tinubu announced the removal of subsidy on petrol immediately he was sworn in on May 29, 2023.
“The very first day, he took a very bold initiative to remove fuel subsidies, which many of you have written and condemned in the past.
“We don’t know if other people would have had the courage to go ahead and remove it.
“All the presidential candidates at that time promised to remove the fuel subsidy but, for this President has displayed that capacity to do what he said,” he said.
According to him, Tinubu, in the last two years, took some bold steps, taking some policy directions that are shaping the economy.
He said that the country`s foreign reserves were in a bad shape when the current administration took over the government, adding that now there is significant growth.
Akutah said that the president acknowledged that there was hardship, but he stuck to that policy which has brought a lot of gains in the way of government business today.
“Even at the sub-national levels. You know that state governments have more money now; local governments have more money due to that policy direction.
“We need to commend President Tinubu for that initiative, which has put more money at the sub-national level for capital projects to spring up.
“We are seeing many states executing many projects, capital projects, and huge infrastructural developments going on in so many states,” he said.
He said that for Tinubu to have acknowledged developments in opposition states means he is eager to see the country developed in terms of infrastructure.
“It doesn’t matter whether you are in his party, but the moment you are doing the right thing, he will stand with you, and he acknowledged that publicly.
“The GDP was at one very low and the growth was very slow and sluggish before President Tinubu assumed office,” he said.
Youths under the auspices of the Ogoni Youths Development Initiative (OYDI) have urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reappoint Dr. Mike Nwielaghi as Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP).
The youths in an open letter to the President, signed by the OYDI President, Imeabe Saviour Oscar, said Nwielaghi performed excellently in delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda in Ogoniland.
The youths said: “The previous Board of Trustees (BoT), led by Dr. Mike Nwielaghi, performed remarkably well in delivering on your Renewed Hope mandate.
“The Ogoni people were satisfied with their work, and OYDI formally conveyed a vote of confidence to your office, urging their re-appointment to ensure continuity.
“It is therefore shocking that, instead of building on that success, efforts are now heightened to truncate this momentum.”
The youths said they received the report of the reconstitution of the Board of Trustees of HYPREP with mixed feelings.
While appreciating President Tinubu for his ongoing commitment to the cleanup of the polluted Ogoni environment, the stakeholders said they were deeply concerned that genuine efforts to bring transformation, development, and healing to Ogoniland were repeatedly undermined by political interference.
The youths said: “Firstly, we acknowledge your visible dedication to ensuring that the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) Report-recommended cleanup of Ogoniland succeeds.
“Your leadership has given our people hope. However, we regret that political manoeuvring has continued to place square pegs in round holes, thereby jeopardising progress in Ogoniland.
“From the State House release, it is clear that your intention is to re-appoint Dr. Mike Nwielaghi as HYPREP’s BoT Chairman.
“Hon. Emmanuel Deeyah has never served as BoT Chairman, making the description of his ‘re-appointment’ in the release both inaccurate and misleading.
“HYPREP, at this critical stage, requires leaders who are tested, trusted, and deeply knowledgeable about the remediation process.
“For the UNEP cleanup targets to be met, appointments must be based on competence and integrity, not political patronage.
“We remain confident in the leadership of Dr. Mike Nwielaghi, whose proven capacity and credibility align with the President’s developmental vision for Ogoniland.
“Continuing with his leadership will not only sustain the cleanup momentum but also strengthen your political goodwill in the region ahead of 2027.”
They called on President Tinubu to reverse the recent announcement and restore the re-appointment of Dr. Mike Nwielaghi as BoT Chairman of HYPREP, insisting that a new appointment, like that of Emmanuel Deeyah, should be classified as an appointment and not a re-appointment.
Addressing the President, they said: “Your Excellency, even if the appointment would be done on a political baseline, Dr. Mike Nwielaghi has been your staunch supporter.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a series of far-reaching measures aimed at enhancing the welfare of Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS) pensioners, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Executive Secretary of PTAD, Tolulope Odunaiya, Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) has said.
Odunaiya made this known in a statement made available to journalist.
She said the Directorate had earlier made a formal submission to the Presidency, requesting the President’s consideration for an emergency budgetary allocation to implement key pension reforms and welfare benefits, including Implementation of New Pension Rates that comprises of N32,000 pension increment; 10.66per cent and 12.95 per cent pension increment for pensioners of Defunct and Privatized Agencies.
She also requested for pension harmonization for all DBS pensioners; Enrolment of DBS pensioners into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS); and Settlement of accrued unfunded pension liabilities owed to pensioners of the defunct Agencies and Treasury-Funded Parastatals.
The PTAD ES stated that following this request, President Tinubu magnanimously approvedfor immediate implementation: Additional budgetary allocation for the full implementation of the new pension rates; and Adoption of the proposed Pension Harmonization policy for DBS Pensioners in the 2026 Pension Budget.
Others are provision of health insurance coverage for all DBS pensioners under the 2026 pension budget; and Inclusion of the balance of inherited unfunded pension liabilities owed to pensioners of NITEL/MTEL and accrued pension arrears of other parastatal pensioners in the 2026 Budget Proposal.
She expressed profound appreciation to the President for the historic approvals, noting that it reflects his steadfast commitment to the welfare of Nigeria’s Senior citizens, also citing it as a turning point in DBS Pension Administration.
“These approvals are a testament to the Renewed Hope Agenda’s focus on equity, social justice, and the dignity of our pensioners. Additionally, it cements the position of Mr. President, as the leader who ushered a new era of far-reaching and impactful welfare benefits for pensioners under the DBS”, she stated.
Odunaiya noted that the reforms will be implemented in phases in collaboration with relevant government agencies.
She assured that PTAD reassures all DBS pensioners of its continued dedication and unwavering commitment to their welfare.
