July 2025 | Page 2 of 48

NNPCL Restates Commitment to Oil, Gas Development in Northern Nigeria

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago01 mins

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has reaffirmed its commitment to the exploration and development of oil and gas resources in northern Nigeria. Yusuf Usman, a director at NNPCL, gave the assurance on Wednesday during a government-citizen engagement session organized by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Foundation in Kaduna. Usman disclosed that the company has drilled four wells in the Kolmani area of Bauchi State and is currently assessing the appropriate technology for the next phase of drilling operations. He also announced that five Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plants are under construction in Kogi State as part of President Bola Tinubu’s CNG Initiative. The plants are expected to improve gas supply and accessibility across the northern region.

NDLEA, Education Ministry to Introduce Drug Education, Integrity Tests in Schools

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Federal Ministry of Education have agreed to introduce compulsory drug integrity tests for tertiary institution students and review the secondary school curriculum to include comprehensive drug education. This was part of the outcome of a high-level meeting between NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), and the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, in Abuja on Wednesday. Marwa highlighted the urgent need for drug education and testing, noting that substance abuse was fueling insecurity and criminality among Nigerian youths. He revealed that NDLEA had arrested over 40,000 suspects, secured over 8,600 convictions, and seized more than one billion pills of illicit opioids in the past two years. “We are fighting for the souls of our children,” Marwa said, proposing three key interventions: revising the drug education curriculum, introducing stand-alone school programmes on drug prevention, and implementing a drug test policy for students in tertiary institutions. In response, the Minister of Education expressed full support, announcing the formation of an inter-ministerial working group and the establishment of a Substance Use Prevention Unit within the ministry. “We will start drug testing in tertiary institutions—both for fresh and returning students—as well as conduct random tests,” Alausa said. He also committed to integrating drug education into the new secondary school curriculum and cascading it to primary education. The Minister further directed that UBEC and TETFUND collaborate with the NDLEA Academy in Jos to strengthen drug education across all educational levels.

Port Harcourt Refinery Not for Sale, Will Be Fully Rehabilitated – NNPCL

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has dismissed speculations about the sale of the Port Harcourt Refining Company, affirming that the facility will be fully rehabilitated and retained under government ownership. NNPC Ltd’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, made this clear during a company-wide town hall meeting held at the NNPC Towers in Abuja. The clarification follows public concerns sparked by Ojulari’s earlier comments at the 2025 OPEC Seminar in Vienna, where he stated that “all options are on the table” regarding Nigeria’s refineries. In a statement issued Wednesday, Ojulari described the idea of selling the Port Harcourt refinery as “ill-advised and sub-commercial,” emphasizing that NNPC remains committed to its complete rehabilitation. He noted that detailed technical and financial reviews are ongoing for the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries. According to him, early efforts to resume operations at the Port Harcourt refinery before completing full rehabilitation were misinformed and not economically viable. “Although progress is being made across all three refineries, the current outlook requires advanced technical partnerships to finalize and enhance the Port Harcourt facility,” the statement read. “Selling is not a viable option and would further erode value.” NNPC Ltd is currently leading the phased overhaul of its refining assets as part of a broader strategy to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported fuel and achieve energy self-sufficiency.

Anambra Entrepreneur and Social Media Personality Fish Magnet Confirmed Dead After Abduction

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

Anambra-based entrepreneur and social media personality, Ifesinachi Onyekere, popularly known as “Fish Magnet,” has been confirmed dead days after he was abducted by unidentified gunmen. The incident occurred late Saturday night in Okpuno, a community near the Anambra State capital, Awka. According to reports from Zagozola Makama and eyewitness accounts, the armed assailants stormed Onyekere’s residence in Ezinifite Village at about 10:30 p.m. Arriving in an ash-coloured Lexus SUV, the attackers reportedly broke into the compound, shot Onyekere in the leg, and forcefully took him away in his own navy blue Toyota Corolla. They were said to have escaped through nearby bush paths toward Nawfia, successfully evading security operatives in the area. Onyekere was the Managing Director of Fish Magnet, a thriving aquaculture business with a significant following on social media. He was widely admired for his entrepreneurship and digital presence promoting fish farming in Nigeria. Tragically, sources confirmed that his body was found days later, confirming fears of his death. Circumstances surrounding the killing remain unclear, and investigations are ongoing. He was also the son of the Anambra State Women Leader of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), a connection that has sparked political interest in the case. The incident has added to growing concerns over rising insecurity in parts of Anambra and the southeast region. Friends, family, and followers have taken to social media to mourn the loss of a young businessman who many say was full of promise and passion.

Tinubu Appoints Olumode Adeyemi as New Controller-General of Federal Fire Service

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Deputy Controller-General (DCG) Olumode Samuel Adeyemi as the new Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS). The appointment takes effect from August 14, 2025. The announcement was made on Tuesday by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) and follows the upcoming retirement of the current Controller-General, Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji Olola, who is set to leave office on August 11 after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60. DCG Adeyemi, who began his firefighting career with the FCT Fire Service before transferring to the Federal Fire Service, currently oversees the Human Resources Department at the Service Headquarters. He is widely recognized for his professionalism and administrative acumen. Over the course of his career, Adeyemi has completed all mandatory in-service training and command courses. He has also participated in numerous professional development programmes both locally and internationally. His credentials include membership and fellowship in several esteemed professional bodies, including the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), the Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria, the Institute of Public Administration of Nigeria, and the Chartered Institute of Treasury Management of Nigeria. In a statement signed by CDCFIB Secretary, Major General A.M. Jibril (Rtd.), the Board commended the outgoing Controller-General, Engr. Olola, for his exemplary leadership and transformative contributions to the Federal Fire Service during his tenure. Olumode Adeyemi is expected to bring fresh energy and continuity to the ongoing reforms in the agency as he assumes leadership of the FFS.

Fuel Subsidy Removal: 7 Ingenious Ways Nigerians Are Surviving the Hardship

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago06 mins

When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared “fuel subsidy is gone” on May 29, 2023, few Nigerians fully grasped the financial shockwave that would follow. Within hours, fuel prices soared from ₦185 per litre to over ₦800, forcing many to abandon their vehicles and search for alternative means to navigate daily life. But in true Nigerian fashion, resilience and ingenuity have taken center stage. From increased walking to embracing electric mobility, Nigerians are finding creative — and often humorous — ways to adapt. Here are seven notable ways Nigerians are surviving the fuel subsidy removal: 1. The Trekking Revolution: ‘Subsidy Cardio’ Goes ViralWith transport costs rising, many urban dwellers have taken to walking long distances daily. What started as a necessity has now become a form of fitness.“I used to drive from Jakande to Lekki Phase 1. Now I walk part of the journey, and my jeans fit better,” says Nkem, a makeup artist in Lagos.A survey by SBM Intelligence revealed that 38% of urban Nigerians now walk more frequently to cut transportation expenses. 2. Okadas and Kekes Replace Ride-Hailing AppsAs Uber and Bolt fares become unaffordable for many, Nigerians are returning to motorcycles (okadas) and tricycles (kekes) for quicker, cheaper movement — even if it means squeezing three people onto one bike during rush hour. 3. Office Sleepovers Become Cost-Saving StrategyTo avoid the daily transportation burden, some workers are opting to sleep at the office. In sectors like tech and banking, employers have reportedly provided mats and basic amenities for staff who now go home only on weekends.“I only go home on weekends. It saves me ₦14,000 weekly,” says Uzo, a financial analyst based in Victoria Island.A Channels TV report estimates that transportation now consumes up to 50% of some Lagosians’ monthly income. 4. Remote Work Gains New PopularityThe fuel crisis has accelerated the shift to remote work, especially in startups, NGOs, and even religious institutions.“Fuel subsidy killed our physical Monday devotions. Now we pray on WhatsApp voice note,” says Lekan, a church administrator.Zoom, WhatsApp, and Telegram have effectively become digital offices across the country. 5. Electric Scooters and Bicycles Gain TractionElectric mobility is emerging as a trendy alternative, particularly in Lagos and Abuja. Young professionals now use electric scooters and bikes for short commutes, cutting fuel costs entirely.“I plug it at night, ride to work in the morning. I’ve not bought petrol in three weeks,” says Tope, a software developer in Yaba.Brands like Solar Taxi and MAX.ng are expanding their footprint in Nigeria’s e-mobility sector. 6. Transport WhatsApp Groups Build CommunityIn cities like Lagos, WhatsApp has become a tool for daily ride coordination. Residents from areas such as Isolo, Berger, and Surulere have created groups to share danfos, kekes, and even private car rides.“It’s not just about saving money — it’s vibes and survival,” says Joy, a human resource executive in Surulere. 7. Charging Gadgets at Work Becomes NormWith irregular power supply and longer hours spent outside the home, people now carry portable power banks religiously. Others opt to charge all devices — from phones to mini-fans — at their workplaces.“Fuel is gold. If NEPA takes light, I wait till I get to the office to charge anything,” says Mustapha, a graphic designer. Conclusion: Nigerian Resilience in ActionThe removal of fuel subsidies has undoubtedly reshaped daily life in Nigeria, but it has also showcased the nation’s remarkable adaptability. From trekking to remote work, and electric scooters to ride-sharing communities, Nigerians are once again proving that Naija no dey carry last. Are you also finding creative ways to cope with the subsidy era? Share your survival story — because in Nigeria, even hardship can’t stop the hustle.

Kaduna SDP Denies El-Rufai Suspension, Labels Claims Politically Motivated

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

The Kaduna State chapter of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has debunked widespread reports suggesting that former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, has been suspended or expelled from the party. The party described the reports as false, unauthorized, and aimed at causing political mischief. In a statement released on Monday, the State Publicity Secretary of the SDP, Hon. Darius Kurah, strongly refuted the claims, asserting that they were fabricated to mislead the public and destabilize the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. Kurah specifically discredited a statement attributed to one Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, who was presented in media reports as the party’s National Publicity Secretary. “Araba Rufus Aiyenigba is not the National Publicity Secretary of the SDP,” Kurah stated. “That position is currently held by Ambassador Judith Shua’ibu, and any statement issued by Aiyenigba in that capacity is null, unauthorized, and of no consequence.” The party emphasized that no disciplinary process—such as a query, appearance before a disciplinary panel, or formal suspension—had been initiated against El-Rufai, either at the ward level or by the party’s National Working Committee (NWC). Reacting to allegations that El-Rufai was secretly promoting the interests of rival political parties, Kurah dismissed the claims as “baseless and unsubstantiated.” He confirmed that while El-Rufai is a registered member of the SDP, he holds no official position and has not violated any party rule or engaged in anti-party activities. Describing the suspension rumors as “cheap propaganda,” Kurah accused certain political actors, including elements linked to the All Progressives Congress (APC), of attempting to foment internal division. “This misleading publication appears to be a politically motivated attempt to create confusion within our ranks and among the public,” he said. The Kaduna SDP called on its members and the general public to disregard the false claims, reaffirming that Mallam Nasir El-Rufai remains a bona fide member of the party in good standing. “No such disciplinary action has been taken against Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, and we urge all well-meaning Nigerians to ignore such fake news,” the statement concluded.

Tsunami Hits Hawaii After Massive 8.8 Magnitude Earthquake Off Russia’s Far East

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago05 mins

A powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake off the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia has triggered tsunami warnings across the Pacific region, prompting evacuations and emergency declarations in multiple countries. Tsunami Warnings Issued The massive undersea quake — among the strongest ever recorded — has prompted tsunami alerts for Japan, China, the Philippines, and parts of the United States, including Hawaii, California, and Alaska. The U.S. National Weather Service confirmed that the first tsunami waves had begun reaching Hawaii and the northern coast of California. Tide gauges detected rising sea levels, and authorities have warned residents to stay away from coastlines as the waves are expected to intensify with the incoming high tide. Evacuations in Hawaii Hawaii meteorologist Malika Dudley reported that “every single island in Hawaii” was affected, with significant traffic congestion as residents and tourists rushed to evacuate coastal areas. “Every single part of the coastline is in a tsunami evacuation zone,” Dudley said from Kauai, the state’s northernmost island. She emphasized the urgency of disseminating information, particularly to tourists and hotels located within evacuation areas. “We need to either vertically evacuate or evacuate inland,” she added, noting that communication systems and traffic coordination could be improved. Dudley explained that officials would continue to monitor wave patterns to determine when it would be safe to downgrade the alert level. “We cannot go from a warning to an advisory until the warning center sees a series of waves and a pattern of lowering wave heights,” she said. Despite the serious situation, she reported that the public remained calm. “Most people are putting their kids to bed and hoping for the best.” Tsunami Reaches California The National Weather Service in Eureka, California, confirmed that tsunami waves had reached the northern coast of the state. Officials urged residents to avoid beaches as wave activity was expected to build throughout the night. Russia Declares State of Emergency Meanwhile, Russia has declared a state of emergency on the Kuril Islands near the earthquake’s epicenter. Several tsunami waves flooded the main city of Severokurilsk, where waves reached over three meters, damaging boats, flooding a processing plant, and knocking out power. The Kuril Islands, which lie just south of the Kamchatka Peninsula, are a longstanding territorial dispute between Russia and Japan. The islands were seized by the Soviet Union during the final days of World War II, and the disagreement has prevented the two countries from signing a peace treaty. Surgeons Work Through Tremors A dramatic video shared by Russian officials shows surgeons in a cancer clinic holding onto a patient and medical equipment as the earthquake struck. Despite the violent tremors, the medical team managed to remain composed and continued their operation once the shaking subsided. Russia’s regional health minister praised the team as “heroes in white coats.” Authorities across the Pacific continue to monitor wave activity and damage assessments as the situation unfolds.