Tag: tinubu

…as Sahara Power Group, Crescendough, completed project in 16 months

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inaugurated the 180MW Afam II Power Plant in Rivers State completed by Africa’s largest private power business, Sahara Power Group (SPG) in partnership with Crescendough Nigeria Limited (CNL).

The ceremony, which was held on Wednesday and attracted key players in the energy sector, reinforced the role of private-sector collaboration in driving sustainable energy solutions in Nigeria.

Sahara Power Group, a subsidiary of global energy and infrastructure conglomerate Sahara Group and Crescendough completed the project, which was conceived, managed, and delivered in 16 months by predominantly indigenous expertise.

The plant, which was described as an important addition to the national grid and the quest for promoting energy access, is fully operational and set to boost supply towards powering homes, businesses, industries, and economic growth. 

President Tinubu, who inaugurated the project virtually, described it as a “key achievement emanating from the enterprising Nigerian spirit”.

He said the completion of the power plant reinforced the capacity “we have to overcome our challenges – through collaboration, tenacity and renewed hope.”

Tinubu commended the Rivers State Government for envisioning and enabling the project in pursuit of energy sustainability in Nigeria.

He said:  “I equally commend the private sector partners—Sahara Power Group, First Independent Power Limited, and Crescendough Nigeria Limited for their investments and expertise. You have transformed this great vision into reality. Nigeria salutes you”.

The President further noted that the 180MW added to the national grid would ignite and drive economic development.

He said, “Let me emphasise that under my administration, achieving stable power remains an unwavering goal. We will continue to enforce policies that protect investments and prioritise ease of doing business”.

The Group Managing Director, Sahara Power Group, Kola Adesina, said Sahara had for almost three decades, been a foremost stakeholder in Africa’s energy and infrastructure landscape, leveraging the power of collaboration and cohesion of shared aspirations to deliver sustainable energy solutions.

Adesina said the Afam II project would catalyse productivity in Nigeria, powering job creation, industrial growth, and sustainable development.

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He said: “This milestone for us is more than the 180MW of additional power; we are celebrating impact, transformed lives, and the privilege we have as an organisation to bring energy to life responsibly.”

Describing electricity as the backbone of modern economies, he added: “Nothing will give Sahara Group more pleasure than its continuing leadership of efforts geared towards uninterrupted and reliable power supply through long-term strategic investments, operational excellence, and collaboration with like-minded stakeholders.”

Adesina explained that Sahara Power is the largest power business in Nigeria, contributing over 20 percent of the power generated in Nigeria through Egbin Power and First Independent Power Limited.

He said, “This translates to powering over 50 million homes, businesses, and industries, making a difference in spurring economic prosperity in the nation. However, this is only a fraction of our vision. Sahara has its sights on a Nigeria wholly transformed and globally competitive, enabled by the wings of sustainable power solutions”.

The Administrator, Rivers State, Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, lauded the impressive completion of the plant within a record time of 16 months, describing the feat as a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to promoting home-grown solutions

He said: “To Sahara Group and its partners, I say a hearty congratulation. You have demonstrated that indigenous enterprise is alive, capable, and resilient. Your investment here speaks volumes of your confidence in our economy, and in Rivers State as a viable destination for large-scale, high-impact ventures”.

The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu said the project was a significant milestone adding that “Sahara Energy’s investment in Afam 2 is a testament to the fruitful collaboration between public reforms and private sector and stands as a beacon of progress and innovation in our nation’s quest for energy security.”

Also speaking, Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, said his ministry would collaborate with the power ministry to address gas hurdles towards boosting power sustainability in Nigeria.

Adesina said Sahara Power was undertaking expansion plans in Egbin Power, the largest private thermal plant in sub-Saharan Africa; innovative upgrades and transformation of Ikeja Electric; the largest power distribution company in Sub-Saharan Africa; tech-driven generation in First Independent Power Limited and planned investments in alternative and renewable energy solutions to support environmental sustainability.

“Sahara Power is unwaveringly committed to lighting up Nigeria and Africa responsibly and sustainably”, he said.

Adesina extended gratitude to the Presidency and Federal Ministry of Power for policy leadership, the Rivers State Government for its pioneering role in the project, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and the Afam host communities for their unwavering support towards bringing the Afam II project to fruition.

The Coalition for Human Rights and Freedom (CHRF) has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defence for their relentless efforts in restoring peace and security across the country, particularly in the northern region.

In a statement issued in Abuja by its Secretary General, Tijjani Nana Lawal, the group also declared its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

CHRF praised the strategic leadership of the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, noting that his stewardship has driven significant progress in the fight against terrorism and banditry over the past two years.

“The Coalition for Human Rights and Freedom (CHRF) wishes to express its profound appreciation for the unwavering efforts and sacrifices made by the Nigerian troops, as well as the strategic initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Defence under the stewardship of Minister Badaru Abubakar,” the statement read. “These commendable actions have greatly advanced the battle against insecurity, especially in the northern region of our great nation.”

“The relentless operations spearheaded by the Defence Ministry, particularly in collaboration with the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), have yielded remarkable successes in dismantling the strongholds of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). 

 “Through these concerted efforts, numerous high-value targets have been neutralized, and vast territories previously under terrorist control have been reclaimed. This progress not only reflects the military’s tactical proficiency but also underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing transnational threats.

“In addition to military operations, the Defence Ministry has enhanced intelligence sharing and deployed advanced surveillance technologies in the Lake Chad region. These initiatives have fortified our cross-border response capabilities and have been instrumental in countering the multifaceted security crises that plague our nation. 

“From the desperate attacks in the northeast to the rampant banditry and kidnappings in the northwest, the Nigerian troops have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, crucial attributes in the ongoing battle against these evolving threats.

“Under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose administration has prioritized security as a fundamental pillar of governance, the Defence Ministry has been invigorated with a renewed sense of purpose. 

“The President’s firm directive, “Enough is enough,” resonates not only as a rallying cry for our military but also as a clarion call for all Nigerians to unite in overcoming the challenges that threaten our peace and stability. This political will has galvanized efforts across the nation, fostering a collaborative environment among all stakeholders in the security sector.”

CHRF also praised the Ministry of Defence for promoting synergy among the Armed Forces and security agencies through the establishment of the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre. This, the group noted, has helped unify operational strategies and produce measurable outcomes.

“This collaborative approach has yielded tangible results, including the neutralization of over 13,500 terrorists and criminals and the rescue of nearly 10,000 hostages from the clutches of terror.

“Moreover, the operational successes recorded in the northeast, northwest, and north-central regions of Nigeria are a testament to the effectiveness of the Defence Ministry’s strategies. The neutralization of notorious bandit kingpins and the disruption of criminal networks have restored a semblance of peace to many communities, allowing thousands of displaced citizens to return to their homes. 

“The gradual resurgence of socio-economic activities in areas previously besieged by violence is a clear indication that our military efforts are making a tangible difference in the lives of ordinary Nigerians.

“It is crucial to recognize that the fight against insecurity extends beyond mere military engagement. The  CHRF firmly believes that a holistic approach, combining military action with socio-economic development and robust governance, is essential for achieving lasting peace.” he said

Emphasizing that lasting peace requires more than military might, the group called for a comprehensive approach that blends armed engagement with socio-economic development, education, and good governance.

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He added, “The Defence Ministry’s commitment to deradicalization initiatives and community engagement programs, such as ‘Operation Safe Corridor’, reflects an understanding that winning hearts and minds is as vital as defeating armed adversaries.

“As we commend the efforts of our troops and the Defence Ministry, we also urge all Nigerians to remain steadfast in their support for our armed forces. The challenges we face are complex and multifaceted, rooted in historical socio-political fractures and exacerbated by economic dislocations. It is imperative that we collectively foster an environment of unity and resilience, standing in solidarity with those who protect our nation.

“In light of these developments, the CHRF is committed to mobilizing massive support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reelection in 2027. We believe that continuity in leadership is essential for sustaining the momentum achieved in securing the North and the entire nation. 

“President Tinubu’s administration has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to national security, economic development, and social cohesion. His leadership has been instrumental in fostering an environment conducive to peace and stability, which is vital for the progress of our region and the country as a whole.”

• Seven more bodies recovered, buried

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the immediate repair of the collapsed Mokwa bridge in Niger State.

The bridge linking the Northern and Southern parts of the country caved in following heavy floods that resulted in the deaths of many and the loss of properties in three Mokwa communities.

Yesterday, the death toll rose with the recovery of seven more bodies.

Minister of State for Works Bello Goronyo revealed the order for the repair of the bridge.

He told the village head of Mokwa, Mohammed Aliyu, that he was in the state on the  President’s instruction.

Goronyo said: “The President gave a clear directive for me to come and commiserate with the government and people of Niger State over the ugly incident.

“In his directive, he said we should do everything possible to restore the access road for vehicular movement on the damaged bridge washed away by the flood.

“The President directed that we provide an access road for vehicular movement and create an access road due to the high volume of articulated vehicles carrying goods from the North to the South.” 

Goronyo assured that the ministry would do more in areas of infrastructure, particularly in Niger, because of its strategic location.

The village head told the minister that four other bridges, including a rail bridge, were swept away by the floods.

Aliyu, who confirmed that many people were still missing, added that over 200 houses were damaged.

He appealed to the government to resettle those affected by the disaster.

Deputy Governor Yakubu Garba thanked President Tinubu for the condolence visit and expressed happiness over the show of concern by his administration.

Seven more bodies recovered, buried

Secretary to the State Government, Abubakar Usman, said seven more bodies were recovered between Monday and yesterday morning.   

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“Four of the bodies were recovered on Monday and one body in the early hours of Tuesday (yesterday), while two more bodies were also later recovered in the ongoing search efforts,” Usman explained in a statement.

The SSG, who said the bodies had been buried, appealed to residents to remain calm and prayerful in this moment of collective grief.

The statement partly reads: “We urge everyone to avoid spreading unverified or misleading information that may further deepen sorrow, incite panic, or cause unnecessary confusion within our communities.

“While we continue to mourn the lives lost, the government remains committed to providing the necessary support to affected families and intensifying rescue and relief efforts where needed.” 

The statement was issued after Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs Ahmad Suleiman corroborated the Deputy Governor on the death toll yesterday.

“We have more than 200 casualties or corpses, but we are still looking for more. We are still recovering corpses up till now,” the commissioner said. 

Suleiman added that the government has directed the distribution of relief materials to the displaced victims quartered in makeshift camps.

He said: “The Niger State Government has put things in place and there are lots of contributions from various agencies and ministries.  

“The government has sent trailers of rice to the victims. The wife of the governor also visited the local government and donated N50 million.”

Victims lament, get N203.6 m donation

The survivors, however, expressed dissatisfaction over the conditions of their temporary camps and the handling of relief materials sent to them.

One of the residents, who gave her name as Mama Isa, said: ‘’We are 17 people in my household, but we were only given one loaf of bread and tea. How can that be enough for even our breakfast?” 

She appealed to the government to allow well-meaning individuals and organisations to support them directly.

A community volunteer, Hussaini Muhammed, described the camps as unsuitable for human habitation.

According to a circular sighted by The Nation, N203.6 million has so far been donated to the victims.

Mokwa flood  man-made disaster, not dam water

The Federal Government has clarified that the Mokwa flood was man-made and not caused by the release of water from the Kainji or Jebba dams.

It attributed the tragedy to “heavy rainfall,’’ which “overwhelmed local drainage systems’’ in the affected Mokwa communities.

“The flood was primarily due to heavy rainfall caused by extreme weather conditions linked to climate change, which overwhelmed local drainage systems in Mokwa,” Water Resources and Sanitation Minister Joseph  Utsev told reporters in Abuja.

Utsev further explained that unregulated construction blocked an ephemeral tributary of River Dingi, an offshoot of River Niger, thereby worsening the situation.

He recalled that the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) had in its 2025 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) issued on April 10 warned of the possibility of flooding in Mokwa and 18 other local governments in the state.

He described the Mokwa incident as a “stark reminder” of the growing impact of climate change on Nigeria’s water systems and emphasised the ministry’s commitment to managing water resources sustainably and building climate-resilient communities.

The minister commended the state government and local authorities for their swift response to the tragedy.

Reiterating NIHSA warnings, Utsev urged states and local governments to urgently strengthen their drainage infrastructure, relocate communities from flood-prone areas, increase public awareness campaigns and enforce land-use regulations to stop encroachments.