March 2025 | Page 8 of 16

IGP Tours Adamawa Command, Ultra Modern Headquarters in Yola

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago05 mins

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Thursday 27th March, 2025, undertook an official tour of the Adamawa State Police Command, during which he commissioned the newly constructed ultra-modern Command Headquarters in Yola, a monumental edifice which would provide a conducive working environment for officers and ensuring effective service delivery in the fight against crime and criminality. The IGP also inspected various police formations in the state, assessing operational efficiency and the welfare of personnel as part of the drives to ensure improved security and strengthening policing mechanisms across the country. After the commissioning,while addressing guests, officers, and men of the Command, the IGP charged them to maintain the already existing synergy between the Police Force and other security forces, to continually and adequately combat insecurity in the state and, by extension, across the country. He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts among security agencies in ensuring a safer Nigeria. As part of his engagements, the IGP paid a courtesy visit to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Adamawa State, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, at the Government House in Yola. The Governor commended the IGP for his relentless efforts in safeguarding lives and property, noting the significant impact the Nigeria Police Force is making in maintaining peace and stability in the state and the nation at large. In a bid to further bolster security in Adamawa State, the Governor called for the establishment of an additional Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU) Base and the reopening of the Police Training School in Mbaba, Yola South Local Government Area in the state. He also emphasized that these measures would enhance the operational capacity of security agencies in tackling emerging security threats, particularly insurgency and banditry, which have posed serious challenges to the region. The IGP, in his response, assured the Governor and the good people of Adamawa State of the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to proactive policing, community partnership, and intelligence-driven security strategies, noting that the request for an additional CTU Base and the reopening of the Police Training School would be given due consideration in line with the strategic security and training framework of the Force. The IGP also paid a visit to the Palace of the Lamido of Adamawa, His Royal Highness, DR Muhammad Barkindo Aliyu Mustapha, appreciating him for his leadership steadfastness, and for the support he has shown the Police to enable them adequately combat all forms of crime in the State and urged him to continuously pray for the success of the Nigeria Police Force in its fights against criminality and Nigeria as a whole. The Inspector-General of Police reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s dedication to modernizing its infrastructure, enhancing personnel welfare, and leveraging advanced technology to improve crime prevention and investigative capabilities. He emphasized that the commissioning of the ultra-modern Adamawa State Police Command Headquarters represents a significant milestone in the Force’s ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional capacity and enhance security operations nationwide.

Seplat Energy Promotes Golf at the 6th Orodje of Okpe Tournament

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago08 mins

Sapele, Nigeria – March 22, 2025 – Seplat Energy, a leading indigenous energy company, reaffirmed its commitment to community engagement and sports development as the headline sponsor of the 6th edition of the prestigious Orodje of Okpe Golf Tournament. The two-day tournament, held at the historic Sapele Athletic Club from March 21 to March 22, 2025, brought together over 150 golfers from across Nigeria, to compete in a thrilling 18-hole contest. The event, which has continued to grow in prominence on the Nigeria golfing calendar, provided a platform for skillful play, and the promotion of the sport at both professional and grassroots levels. Golfers navigated the challenging fairways and greens, demonstrating precision, strategy, and endurance over the two-day event. Speaking at the tournament, Kingsley Udebor, Base Manager, Western Asset, Seplat Energy, emphasized the company’s dedication to fostering community-driven initiatives. “Sapele and environs have been good hosts, and at Seplat Energy, one of our core values is recognizing and supporting the communities that welcome and sustain our operations. Our sponsorship of this tournament aligns with our long-term vision of investing in our host communities, and we are proud to see the tangible results of our continued commitment. We look forward to a time when this tournament will attract players from all over the world, further elevating its status. Beyond golf, our dedication to community development is reflected in initiatives such as the Seplat Teachers Empowerment Programme, as well as the PEARLs Quiz which benefits teachers and students in Delta and Edo States. Additionally, through our ‘Eye Can See’ initiative, we have provided critical eye care services, culminating in the recent donation of a state-of-the-art Eye Centre at Sapele Central Hospital. These initiatives underscore our unwavering commitment to uplifting our host communities across multiple fronts.” His Royal Majesty, Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.) the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, represented by Chief Peter Asagba, Duke of Amukpe District, Okpe Kingdom, expressed his appreciation for Seplat Energy’s continued support and the growing stature of the tournament. “The Sapele Athletic Club is the oldest golf club in the country and we hope to elevate the tournament further. Seplat Energy has been supportive and we appreciate their sponsorship of this tournament and their continued presence in our community.” Echoing similar sentiments, Bright Abeke, Chairman of Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State represented by Raymond Overah, Secretary to the Sapele Local Government Area, underscored the impact of the tournament on local tourism and community engagement. “The Orodje of Okpe Golf Tournament continues to grow in prestige, and I must commend all participants for making this edition a remarkable one. Golf is a sport that brings people together, and this tournament is a testament to that. We have seen golfers travel from Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Asaba to compete here. On behalf of the Executive Chairman of Sapele Local Government, I extend our sincere appreciation to Seplat Energy for their commitment and dedication to this tournament. Their investment in this event and the community at large is commendable.” Alexander Verhees Fritz, the Captain of the Sapele Athletic Club highlighted the significance of the event in promoting golf within the region. “The Orodje of Okpe Golf Tournament has evolved into one of the most respected golfing events in the country and we are proud of the progress we have made. With over 150 golfers joining us from all over the country, this tournament continues to gain national recognition. Looking ahead, we are eager to continue partnering with Seplat Energy to expand the tournament, and we are hopeful of hosting a Governor’s Cup tournament in the near future to attract even more players and further establish Sapele Athletic Club as a premier golfing destination.” The tournament concluded with an awards ceremony, recognizing the exceptional performances of participants across various categories. Some of the winners included John Okojie for the longest drive in the men’s category and Sandra Monica for the longest drive in the ladies’ category. Chief Faith Gbagi emerged as the Super Veteran Winner for men, while Chief Mrs. Oke Gbagi took the Super Veteran Winner title for ladies. Roland Ukpedor claimed victory in the Veteran Guest Men’s category, with Chief Mrs. Ochukor Orogun winning the Veteran Guest Ladies’ category. In the Guest category, Peters Omuaraye emerged as the winner for men, while Destiny Okoh won for ladies. The Veteran Members Men’s category was won by Sir Kofi Ajekuko, and Lucky Akpieyi triumphed in the Veteran Members Ladies’ category. O. Gbagi took home the Ladies Members Winner award, while Stephen Asagba claimed the Men Members Winner title. John Okojie was awarded Best Gross, and Ogaga Kelvin Gagophine secured the Best Nett honor. As the sun set on another successful edition of the Orodje of Okpe Golf Tournament, Seplat Energy has demonstrated its commitment to promoting sportsmanship, excellence, and community engagement through golf and other impactful initiatives.

GOtv Boxing Night 33: Nigeria, Ghana Renew Rivalry As Otoo Clash with Osaigbovo

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago02 mins

Top Ghanaian lightweight boxer, Emmanuel Otoo, will face rising Nigeria’s Tosin “Soldier Boy” Osaigbovo, in an international lightweight showdown at GOtv Boxing Night 33, scheduled for April 26 at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Indoor Sports Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium Otoo, an experienced campaigner with nine wins and nine knockouts from 15 fights, brings power and grit to the ring as he looks to upset the undefeated Osaigbovo, who boasts a flawless 11-0 record with eight knockouts. The Ghanaian has vowed to make a statement on Nigerian soil, but Osaigbovo remains confident that he will extend his perfect streak in front of his home crowd. The fight will see a renewal of the age-old Nigeria-Ghana sporting rivalry. Beyond this clash, the night promises more fireworks with bouts featuring Sikiru “Omo Iya Eleja” Shogbesan against Segun Gbobaniyi also in the lightweight division. Also on the card, William “Kaki” Amosu faces Emmanuel “Ability Famous” Abimbola in a light welterweight battle, while national super featherweight champion, Lateef “Latest” Azeez faces Sodiq Oyakojo. GOtv Boxing Night 33 takes place on April 26 at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Indoor Sports Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium.

Tinubu Makes Four New Appointments to NCDMB Governing Council

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago02 mins

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the nomination of four new members to the Governing Council of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), reinforcing the board’s capacity to drive local content growth in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. This was contained in a statement on Thursday by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.The new members include Mr. Olusegun Omosehin from the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) and Engr. Wole Ogunsanya of the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PETAN). Also appointed are Mazi Sam Azoka Onyechi, representing the Nigerian Content Consultative Forum (NCCF) and Barrister Owei Oyanbo from the Ministry of Petroleum Resources. These appointments follow the exit of previous institutional representatives, ensuring that the council remains fully constituted and capable of fulfilling its mandate.the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act, 2010, plays a crucial role in overseeing and promoting Nigerian participation in the oil and gas sector. It consists of representatives from key institutions, including the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), COREN, PETAN, NCCF, and NAICOM. Tinubu urged the newly appointed members to apply their expertise and dedication to further enhance local content development, in line with his administration’s commitment to economic growth and job creation in the oil and gas sector.

FG Declares 31st March And 1st April As Public Holidays To Mark Eid EL-Fitr

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago02 mins

The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Monday, 31st March and Tuesday, 1st April, 2025, as public holidays to mark the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government extended warm congratulations to the Muslim Ummah on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.Dr. Tunji-Ojo urged all Muslims to embrace the virtues of self-discipline, compassion, generosity and peace, emphasising the importance of love, forgiveness, and solidarity in building a harmonious society.Furthermore, the Minister called on Nigerians to use this festive period to pray for peace, stability, and prosperity in the nation. He expressed hope that the joyous occasion of Eid-el-Fitr would inspire unity and cooperation across religious and ethnic lines.Dr. Tunji-Ojo also encouraged citizens to celebrate safely and responsibly, while remembering the less privileged through acts of kindness and charity, in keeping with the true spirit of Ramadan and Eid.On behalf of the Federal Government, he extended heartfelt Eid Mubarak wishes to all Muslim faithful and prayed that the blessings of the season bring happiness, success, and fulfillment to everyone.Signed:Dr. Magdalene Ajani Permanent Secretary26th March, 2025

Max Air Resumes Domestic Flight Operations

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago02 mins

Max Air is pleased to announce the resumption of its domestic flight operations following a successful internal operational evaluation. Effective from 21st March 2025, we are back in service, ready to provide our esteemed passengers with safe, reliable, and top-quality air travel across Nigeria.This strategic pause allowed us to reinforce our commitment to safety, compliance, and operational excellence. During this period, we worked closely with aviation authorities to ensure that all statutory requirements were met while enhancing our service delivery standards.As we return to the skies, passengers can expect improved travel experiences, increased efficiency, and the unwavering hospitality that Max Air is known for. We sincerely appreciate the patience and support of our valued customers during the temporary suspension.All previously booked passengers whose flights were affected will be given priority rebooking options. Our customer service team is available to assist with inquiries and reservations.For flight schedules, bookings, and more updates, visit our website and follow our verified social media channels. We are excited to welcome you back on board!Signed, Management@fx@maxairltd

Alleged N33.2b Fraud: EFCC Re-Arraigns Dasuki, Three Others

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago06 mins

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, has re-arraigned former National Security Adviser, Colonel Sambo Dasuki (retd) before Justice Charles Agbaza of the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Abuja, for fraud. He was re-arraigned alongside a former General Manager of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, Aminu Baba Kusa, Acacia Holdings, Limited and Reliance Referral Hospital Limited. They are being prosecuted on a 32-count charge, bordering on breach of trust and dishonesty to the tune of N33,200,000,000 (Thirty-three billion, Two Hundred Million Naira). Count one reads: “That you COL. MOHAMMED SAMBO DASUKI (RTD.) whilst being the National Security Adviser, on or about 27th November, 2014 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, entrusted with dominion over certain properties, to wit: the sum of N10, 000, 000, 000 (Ten Billion Naira) being part of the funds in the account of National Security Adviser with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the equivalent of which sum you received from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in foreign currencies to wit: $47,000,000 (Forty Seven Million Dollars) and 5.6 million Euros purporting same to be for special security service, committed criminal breach of trust in respect of the said property when you dishonestly released the said amount for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential primary election and you thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 315 of the Penal Code Act, Cap 532, Vol. 4, LFN 2004.” Count five reads: “That you COL. MOHAMMED SAMBO DASUKI (RTD.) whilst being the National Security Adviser, between 9th October, 2014 and 17th April, 2015 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, dishonestly misappropriated certain property, to wit: an aggregate sum of N1, 450,000,000 (One Billion, Four Hundred and Fifty Million Naira) belonging to the Federal Republic of Nigeria which sum was transferred to ACACIA HOLDINGS LIMITED’S bank account controlled by one Aminu Baba-Kusa purporting same to be payment for organizing prayers and you thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 309 of the Penal Code Act, Cap 532, Vol. 4, LFN 2004.” Count 19 reads: “That you COL. MOHAMMED SAMBO DASUKI (RTD.) whilst being the National Security Adviser, between 4th April, 2014 and 30th November, 2014 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, entrusted with dominion over certain properties, to wit: an aggregate sum of N4, 685,000,000 (Four Billion, Six Hundred and Eighty-Five Million Naira) being part of the funds in the account of the office of the National Security Adviser with the Central Bank of Nigeria, committed criminal breach of trust in respect of the said property when you dishonestly transferred same into the bank account of SYVAN MCNAMARA LIMITED purporting the said sum to be payment for physical security infrastructure whereas the said amount was released for the Peoples’ Democratic Party’s gubernatorial elections campaign in Ekiti and Osun States and you thereby committed an offence punishable under Section 315 of the Penal Code Act, Cap 532, Vol. 4, LFN 2004.” They pleaded “not guilty” when the charges were read to them, prompting prosecution counsel, Oluwaleke Atolagbe to ask the court for a trial date, while the defence counsel prayed the court to allow Dasuki and Kusa to continue to enjoy their existing bail. The prosecution counsel who did not object to the prayer, however, sought assurance for the defendants’ regular presence in court throughout the trial. Justice Agbaza adjourned the matter till July 1, 2025 for hearing. It could be recalled that the trial was initially before Justice Hussain Baba-Yusuf of the FCT High Court, but now reassigned to Justice Agbaza.

INEC Makes U-turn, Accepts Senator Natasha Recall Petition

Our Reporters4 weeks ago4 weeks ago02 mins

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that the contacts of the petitioners for the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan have been provided. The National Commissioner and Chairman, Information & Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun stated this in a statement issued on Wednesday. “Further to the statement issued yesterday, Tuesday 25th March 2025, the Commission hereby confirms that the contact address of representatives of the petitioners, their telephone numbers and e-mail addresses have now been provided in a letter addressed to the Chairman of the Commission dated today Wednesday 26th March 2025. “As provided in Clause 2(a) of the Commission’s Regulations and Guidelines for Recall 2024, a letter has been written to notify the Senator sought to be recalled about the receipt of the petition and delivered to her official address. The same letter has been copied to the presiding officer of the Senate and published on the Commission’s website. “The next step is to scrutinise the list of signatories submitted by the petitioners to ascertain that the petition is signed by more than one half (over 50%) of the registered voters in the Constituency. This will be done in the coming days. The outcome, which will be made public, shall determine the next step to be taken by the Commission. “We once again reassure Nigerians that the process will be open and transparent,” the statement reads.