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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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Senate Gives NNPCL 21 Days to Explain N210 Trillion in Unreconciled Funds

Senate Gives NNPCL 21 Days to Explain N210 Trillion in Unreconciled Funds

The Nigerian Senate has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to provide explanations for N210 trillion in unreconciled financial records flagged in its audited accounts. The directive was handed down to NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Bayo Ojulari, on Monday during a session with the Senate Committee on Public Accounts. Ojulari appeared before the committee after previously failing to honor four separate invitations. Committee Chairman Senator Ahmed Wadada (Nasarawa West) disclosed that the discrepancies were identified in 19 audit queries raised by the Office of the Auditor General for the Federation. The flagged figures span the years 2017 to 2023 and comprise N103 trillion in liabilities and N107 trillion in assets. “The committee has not said the N210 trillion was stolen or missing,” Wadada clarified. “This is part of our constitutional mandate to examine the audited accounts of public institutions.” Ojulari, who has been in office for just over 100 days, apologized for his earlier absences and asked for more time to review the complex financial queries. He initially requested a four-week extension, but the committee granted him three weeks. “I still need time to do further digging,” he said. “Your explanation now changes my perspective about the issues.” He is expected to submit written responses and appear again before the committee, along with other top officials of the NNPCL. Lawmakers emphasized the gravity of the matter, stressing the importance of transparency in the operations of the national oil company. “NNPCL is in possession of Nigeria’s economic prosperity. We must ensure transparency,” said Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central). Senator Babangida Hussaini (Jigawa North West) described the audit findings as “germane and critical,” while Senator Tony Nwoye (Anambra North) called for a fair hearing, noting that some of the discrepancies might be due to errors in the audit process.

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Saheed Jamiu Osama and Uyime Godwin Udoekwere

TikTok Influencers Remanded for Accusing Mohbad’s Widow of Murder

A Federal High Court in Lagos has ordered the remand of two TikTok content creators, Saheed Jamiu Osama and Uyime Godwin Udoekwere, for allegedly accusing Omowunmi Aloba, the widow of late Nigerian singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, of being responsible for his death. The defendants were arraigned on charges of defamation, cyberstalking, and conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace following a protest where they held placards that read: “Wunmi Killed Mohbad! Period! E No Go Better For Wunmi!” The protest video, which went viral on TikTok and other platforms, attracted outrage and prompted a swift response from authorities. Justice Ibrahim Kala, presiding over the case, ordered the remand of the defendants at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending trial. The court scheduled the next hearing for September 25, 2025. The prosecution told the court that the actions of the accused amounted to character assassination, targeted harassment, and incitement against a private citizen without evidence. The arrest has sparked mixed reactions across social media. While some users defended the defendants under the right to free speech, others condemned what they described as “digital mob justice.” Legal analysts say the case could set a precedent in Nigeria’s evolving cyberspace regarding responsible online conduct and the limits of digital expression. Meanwhile, supporters of Omowunmi Aloba have called for justice and accountability against what they describe as “relentless online bullying.”

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Ralph Nwosu: I Rejected Ministerial Offers to Derail ADC Coalition – Party Hands Over Leadership to David Mark

Former National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ralph Nwosu, has revealed he was offered three ministerial slots by senior government officials in a bid to dissuade him from transforming the ADC into a coalition platform for Nigeria’s opposition. Nwosu made the disclosure during the final National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party, where leadership was officially handed over to former Senate President, David Mark, now serving as interim National Chairman. Also, former Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, was unveiled as the party’s new National Secretary. According to Nwosu, the offer—reportedly from individuals linked to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)—was aimed at stopping the ADC’s transformation into a formidable opposition force. “Some people tried to discourage us with promises of automatic ministerial appointments,” he said. “They wanted to give me three ministerial slots—one for me and two to give away. But I said no. I chose the democratic future of Nigeria. Nigeria cannot be a one-party state after all we did to send the military back to the barracks.” Nwosu emphasized that the ADC’s decision to proceed with the coalition has made it Nigeria’s most populous opposition party, claiming over three million members, 28 senators, and more than 60 members in the House of Representatives. ADC Leadership Restructuring The NEC meeting was monitored by officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and served as the formal conclusion to the party’s internal restructuring. A motion was passed to dissolve the outgoing National Working Committee (NWC) led by Nwosu. The transition was finalized with all former NEC and NWC members stepping down. Zonal Chairman for the South-West, Razzaq Eyiowuawi, moved the first motion for the handover, while Zamfara State Chairman, Kabiru Garba, called for the recall of all members expelled in 2022. Both motions were unanimously passed. The new Caretaker Committee led by David Mark also announced key leadership appointments: The newly constituted committee members took an oath of office to signify their commitment to the party’s reformation goals. David Mark Pledges Internal Democracy and Inclusion In his acceptance speech, David Mark described his appointment as the beginning of a “new chapter” for ADC and pledged to uphold internal democracy, transparency, and merit-based leadership. “I pledge to serve this party with integrity, courage, and vision. This is not just the start of a new NEC, but a rebirth of ADC,” he said. Mark commended Ralph Nwosu and his team for building the foundation of the party and promised to institutionalize democratic principles, including a commitment to collective leadership, inclusive representation, and structured financing. “We will open the gates for the next generation. Our leadership will reflect genuine inclusion of youth and women, not just tokenism,” he added, noting that 35% of positions have been reserved for women and that younger members will also be prioritized. The party also announced plans to form a 50-member Policy Committee to redefine its manifesto and address key national issues across sectors such as health, education, technology, economy, and infrastructure. A Clear Vision for Opposition Mark concluded with a call to action for Nigerians seeking change. “ADC is the only party that guarantees equal opportunity to everyone regardless of age, gender, religion, or region. We will be a party defined not by personalities but by ideology, policies, and patriotic governance.

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Tinubu Rewards 200 Outstanding NYSC Members with Jobs, ₦250,000 Each, and Postgraduate Scholarships

Tinubu Rewards 200 Outstanding NYSC Members with Jobs, ₦250,000 Each, and Postgraduate Scholarships

In a landmark move to honour exemplary service, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced automatic federal civil service employment for 200 outstanding National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members from the 2020 to 2023 service years. Each awardee will also receive a ₦250,000 cash prize and a postgraduate scholarship to any Nigerian university. The announcement was made at the NYSC Presidential Honours Award Ceremony held in Abuja. President Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, described the honorees as “the future of Nigeria.” In a particularly inclusive gesture, the President also approved immediate employment for 10 physically challenged ex-corps members who sustained injuries while serving the nation. “Your patriotism and integrity have earned you this national recognition. You are the future of Nigeria,” President Tinubu stated. Notable Awardees (Highlights): Male: Female: NYSC Allowance Increased to ₦77,000 In a further boost to youth welfare, Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, announced a significant increase in the NYSC monthly allowance—from ₦33,000 to ₦77,000. “This is not politics. It’s recognition of the value our youth bring to nation-building,” Olawande said. NYSC Impact in Numbers (2025): Tribute to Fallen Corps Members NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, paid tribute to four corps members who lost their lives during their national service. “They are heroes of national unity. You may no longer wear khaki, but you now wear something greater—the confidence of a nation,” he told the audience. The Presidential Honours Awards serve as a reminder of the continued importance of the NYSC scheme in promoting national unity, service, and youth development.

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