Security fears grow as bomb threat targets Nigerian lawmakers

The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Internal Security, Garba Muhammad, on Tuesday, disclosed that the group received a bomb threat from a terrorist group.

He noted that the terrorists threatened to bomb the building of NASS, and as a result, called for increased security.

Speaking at an open session on a bill to set up the Legislative Security Directorate, the Chairman of NASS, as seen on Vanguard, claimed that the seat of Nigeria's democracy was increasingly facing serious security challenges, such as car and motorcycle theft, vandalism, fake identity cards, and infiltration by unregistered visitors.

What the National Assembly said

“We have received threats from terrorists to bomb the National Assembly complex and threats from protesters to lock up the National Assembly,” he stated.

“Legislators are exposed to threats from constituents and others who gain easy access into their offices without any formal appointment,” he added.

Continuing on the subject of safeguarding government officials, including senators, House of Representatives members, and other administrative workers, he stated, “It is obvious that with the ongoing security challenges, if proper measures are not taken, it will truncate the legislative activities in the National Assembly.”

He also noted that “If activities are thwarted, there will be no representation, no oversight, no annual budget, no plenary at all, and that will destabilise legislative procedure, democracy, and the stability of the system, and our nation at large.”

The legislator also called on state Houses of Assembly within the nation to follow suit to guarantee complete and extensive security across Nigeria.

“I also want to admonish our State Houses of Assembly to imbibe the same,” Muhammad added, wishing participants a “peaceful and fruitful hearing that will ultimately bring a turnaround in National Assembly security architecture.”

He pointed out that adopting the law would be a significant step in securing Nigeria's democratic institutions and urged everyone to be in support of it.

By Chinedu Okafor, Business Insider Africa

Nigeria’s Nobel-winning author Wole Soyinka says his US visa was revoked

 

Nobel Prize-winning author Wole Soyinka said on Tuesday that his non-resident visa to enter the United States had been rejected, adding that he believes it may be because he recently criticized U.S. President Donald Trump.

The Nigerian author, 91, won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, becoming the first African to do so.

Speaking to the press on Tuesday, Soyinka said he believed it had little to do with him and was instead a product of the United States’ immigration policies. He said he was told to reapply if he wished to enter again.

“It’s not about me, I’m not really interested in going back to the United States,” he said. “But a principle is involved. Human beings deserve to be treated decently wherever they are.”

Soyinka, who has taught in the U.S. and previously held a green card, joked on Tuesday that his green card “had an accident” eight years ago and “fell between a pair of scissors.” In 2017, he destroyed his green card in protest of President Trump’s first inauguration.

The letter he received informing him of his visa revocation cites “additional information became available after the visa was issued,” as the reason for its revocation, but does not describe what that information was.

Soyinka believes it may be because he recently referred to Trump as a “white version of Idi Amin,” a reference to the dictator who ruled Uganda from 1971 until 1979.

The U.S. Consulate in Nigeria’s commercial hub, Lagos, directed all questions to the State Department press office in Washington, D.C., which did not respond to immediate requests for comment.

Soyinka jokingly referred to it as a “love letter” and said that while he did not blame the officials, he would not be applying for another visa.

“I have no visa. I am banned, obviously, from the United States, and if you want to see me, you know where to find me.”

By Wilson McMakin, AP

Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote eyes US$1 billion industrial expansion in Zimbabwe

Nigerian billionaire and Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote is gearing up for a significant investment drive in Zimbabwe as plans advance for a colossal cement, coal mining and power generation complex worth about US$1 billion.

The visit, expected soon, signals a renewed commitment from the Dangote Group, which previously explored Zimbabwe opportunities in 2015 and 2018.

According to organisers familiar with the itinerary, momentum is building for the project, which they believe will bolster Zimbabwe’s standing as a destination for high-value foreign direct investment while creating jobs and driving industrial growth.

Initial engagement between Dangote’s representatives and Zimbabwean officials reportedly took place during the Afreximbank Annual Meetings in Abuja in June.

Paul Tungwarara, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s investment adviser, confirmed that preparations are underway for a high-level meeting between the president and the Nigerian tycoon as per The Zimbabwean.

“The richest man in Africa is coming to Zimbabwe at the invitation of President Mnangagwa,” Tungwarara told journalists. “The two have been in constant communication and we are presently working on the logistical aspects of the visit."

“We are keen to ensure that he makes a significant investment in Zimbabwe and avoid what happened during his previous visit in 2015, when he came but did not return.”

Upon arrival, Dangote is expected to meet President Mnangagwa and senior government officials to discuss key terms, including mining concessions, tax incentives, investment security, and regulatory approvals.

Dangote’s influence across Africa’s energy and industrial future

The Dangote Group operates in 17 African countries across cement, fertiliser, refinery and logistics infrastructure, positioning it as one of the continent’s most transformative corporate forces.

Its landmark US$20 billion refinery in Nigeria aims to drastically reduce Africa’s dependence on imported fuels. Cement production in several countries has already disrupted former import heavy markets while its fertiliser operations are enhancing food security and reducing reliance on overseas supply chains.

In countries including Ethiopia, Senegal, Zambia, Côte d’Ivoire and Tanzania, the Group’s investments have reshaped construction material pricing and availability. Expansion into petrochemicals and refined petroleum supply is giving African airlines and industries the prospect of more reliable and competitive energy input.

The move toward Zimbabwe aligns with that long term African industrialisation strategy. Sources say Dangote is considering a vertically integrated complex consisting of a cement factory, limestone quarry and grinding plant supported by a coal mine and a power station. This structure would reduce operational costs, guarantee energy supply and strengthen raw material efficiency.

A delegation from Bard Santner Markets Inc, led by Chief Executive Officer Senziwani Sikhosana, recently visited Dangote’s operations abroad to study the potential scale and adaptability of such an undertaking on Zimbabwean soil.

If talks succeed, the planned project would become one of Zimbabwe’s largest privately led industrial investments in more than a decade. It could reposition the country as a regional supplier of construction materials and energy, helping accelerate its manufacturing revival ambitions.

By Solomon Ekanem, Business Insider Africa

Related story: Nigeria refinery aims to be world's biggest with expansion

Nigeria attracts $1.3bn Chinese lithium investment amid push for clean energy value chains

Speaking at the 2025 China Mining Conference in Tianjin, themed “Connect and Collaborate, Co-Build and Co-Share”, Alake praised the growing partnership between Nigeria and China, highlighting how the new wave of investments is helping to reshape the continent’s mineral economy.

“Since September 2023, when this administration assumed office, Chinese companies such as Canmax Technology, Jiuling Lithium, Avatar New Energy Nigeria Company, and Asba have invested over $1.3 billion in lithium processing,” Alake stated in a press briefing released by his media aide, Segun Tomori.

According to the minister, these investments are reducing Nigeria’s dependence on oil, driving economic diversification, and fostering technology transfer and skills development among Nigerian engineers.

“Joint ventures between Chinese and Nigerian companies enhance local capabilities and create new technical jobs for our people,” he added.

Building a continental mining renaissance

Alake, who also serves as Chairman of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG), stressed that Africa must collaborate to establish unified standards and knowledge systems that enable the continent to benefit from its rich mineral deposits fully.

He disclosed that Nigeria has undertaken sweeping reforms to attract investors, including the creation of Mining Marshals and a satellite monitoring system to combat illegal mining and protect licensed operators.

The minister also cited the introduction of technology-based tools such as the Electronic Mining Cadastre (eMC+) and the Nigerian Mineral Resources Decision System (NMRDS), which streamline licensing and mineral data management.

Africa’s green value chain vision

Alake reaffirmed that Nigeria’s goal extends beyond mineral extraction. “Our vision is not only to extract minerals but to build a globally competitive value chain that supports clean energy transition, job creation, and industrial growth—all within the framework of responsible mining,” he said.

He further invited investors and partners to explore opportunities in Nigeria’s lithium, gold, lead-zinc, barite, and rare earth sectors, promising a conducive business climate and incentives for shared prosperity.

With over $1.3 billion already flowing into its lithium ecosystem, Nigeria is emerging as one of Africa’s new frontiers for green mineral investment, signaling a broader continental shift toward resource-based industrialization and sustainable growth.

By Segun Adeyemi, Business Insider Africa

Nigeria’s Air Peace Launches Heathrow Flights

Nigeria’s aviation and aerospace development minister Festus Keyamo vowed that his country is undergoing a transformation and is intent on growing connections between the West African economic powerhouse and the world.

Keyamo spoke after he arrived on the inaugural Air Peace Boeing 777-200ER flight from Nigeria’s capital Abuja to London Heathrow on Oct. 26.

“This is an historic moment,” he said. “International airlines have been coming to Nigeria for nearly 90 years on some routes, lifting passengers back and forth without our operators fully participating. Under our BASAs [Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreements] we had rights too, but no capacity, no access, no slot at Heathrow. Today, that changed.”

In Africa, Nigeria is a dominant economic force, competing with South Africa and Egypt for the top spot on the continent. It has Africa’s largest population, which provides a massive domestic market and a large labor force. It has had no national carrier for two decades, and there has been much speculation, argument and legal action over attempts to launch one.

Meanwhile, privately owned airlines have been growing successfully in Nigeria. Air Peace has expanded under the leadership of Chairman and CEO Allan Onyema, who has demanded that Nigerian airlines should have the same rights and access as foreign ones.

When he won the license to fly from Lagos to London Gatwick last year it was seen as a milestone, but for Onyema it was just a small step, and he pushed for access to Heathrow.

Onyema found an ally in minister Keyamo, who opened diplomatic channels with the British government and other countries to gain access. But he also turned internally to Nigeria’s fractured airline industry and a beleaguered regulator to cooperatively push to meet and exceed global standards.

“It has been a dogged leadership by [Keyamo] to get support for local airlines to meet the highest standards. We have worked with the UK CAA to make an impact, and now the regulator support to oversight is robust,” said Chris Ona Najomo, the director general of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

Najomo said Nigeria has embarked on comprehensive infrastructure upgrades, including the modernization of airport terminals, expansion of cargo and logistics networks, and integration of innovative technologies to enhance safety and operational efficiency. Moves, Najomo said, that would support the industry.

Keyamo argues that the new links between London and Nigeria are just the start. “We need that connectivity. We are proud of our flag carriers,” he said. “We will hold them to the highest of standards and will help them open routes.”

Speaking on the sidelines of the Heathrow event, the minister told Aviation Week that he and the NCAA had met privately with lessors and financiers to share their progress. “We have signed and implemented the Cape Town Convention,” he said. “We have guaranteed that we will ensure assets are returned within days.”

With greater confidence in the government guarantees and an improvement in safety and operational regulation, Keyamo believes there will be a boost for Nigerian carriers.

Does this put an end to the talk of a government-owned national flag carrier?

“It is still talked about,” Keyamo said, “but every good economy thrives on the wealth and wellbeing of the private sector, the greatest employer of labor and engine of growth. We have done all we can within our powers to give our local operators the muscle and leverage for fair competition.”

“The mortality rate in our aviation sector for more than 40 years has been very high. Over 100 airlines have come and gone. We have had a clear mandate from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure that we support the growth, sustenance, and competitiveness of our local operators,” the minister said.

Now with 30 aircraft, Air Peace is West Africa’s largest carrier. As well as London routes, the airline also flies to Istanbul and Jeddah. Toyin Olajide, the carrier’s chief operating officer, emphasized the airline’s connectivity to the major West African capitals in Cameroon, Cote D’Ivoire, Ghana and Senegal.

By Alan Peaford, Aviation Week

Nigeria records over $50bn cryptocurrency transactions in 1 year

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) says over $50 billion worth of cryptocurrency transactions flowed through Nigeria between July 2023 and June 2024.

The Director-General of SEC, Emomotimi Agama, said in a notice on Sunday that the situation raised concern over the low participation of citizens in the traditional capital market.

Agama said no fewer than four per cent of the country’s adult population were active investors.

The director-general described the low participation rate as a major impediment to economic growth and capital formation.

He noted that, while fewer than three million citizens invested in the capital market, more than 60 million engaged daily in gambling activities, spending an estimated $5.5 million every day.

"This reveals a paradox, an appetite for risk clearly exists, but not the trust or access to channel that energy into productive investment," he said.

Agama also lamented that Nigeria’s market capitalisation to Gross Domestic Product ratio stood at about 30 per cent, far below South Africa’s 320 per cent, Malaysia’s 123 per cent, and India’s 92 per cent.

He said the disparity highlighted the urgent need to deepen financial inclusion and rebuild investors’ confidence.

Nigeria’s $150 billion annual infrastructure deficit far exceeds the market’s contribution, with only N1.5 trillion approved in Public Private Partnership bonds.

"This shows a misalignment between financial innovation and national priorities," he said.

The director-general called for a ‘reimagined SEC’ that served as both regulator and enabler of private-sector-driven growth.

Business Day

Nigeria refinery aims to be world's biggest with expansion

Nigeria's Dangote oil refinery, already the largest in Africa, aims to become the biggest in the world in three years' time with an expansion doubling its capacity, its owner said on Sunday.

"We are more than doubling the barrels (per day)... to 1.4 million from 650,000," said Aliko Dangote, a Nigerian businessman who is Africa's richest person.

"This will make it the largest refinery" globally, surpassing India's Jamnagar Refinery, he told a news conference in Lagos.

The privately run Dangote refinery, which started operations last year, is a gamechanger for Nigeria, which previously had to import almost all its petrol despite being a major oil producer.

After years of neglect and mismanagement of public refineries, Dangote has shaken up the corruption-marred players in Nigeria and driven down prices of petrol for consumers.

"This expansion reflects our confidence in Nigeria's future, our belief in Africa's potential and our commitment to building energy independence for our continent," and reduce import dependence, Dangote said, adding there was "quite a lot of demand" from west Africa and east Africa.

Dangote also exports aviation fuel, mainly to the United States, Europe and Brazil.

The Dangote refinery, which has sparked monopoly fears as it becomes a powerful player itself, plans to list on the Nigerian Stock Exchange next year.

"That is a step towards broader ownership and market transparency," said Dangote.

A second privately owned refinery, BUA, is under construction by another Nigerian billionaire, Abdulsamad Rabiu.

Recent strikes

Recent moves by the Dangote refinery to bring its own, natural gas-powered trucks to distribute petrol in the country in September sparked a strike by a fuel tanker drivers' union, which accused the company of hiring new drivers on the condition they didn't join a union.

The refinery denied the allegations.

The refinery suffered a two-day strike that ended October 1 after government mediation.

The PENGASSAN oil and gas workers' union accused the refinery of firing 800 local workers because they unionised, and replacing them with 2,000 workers from India.

The refinery called the allegation false, and said it had fired an unspecified number of workers over "acts of sabotage".

Dangote on Sunday thanked the federal government for its role "in mediating our recent disruptions at the (refinery), linked to union activities and some sabotage attempts".

Nigeria pumps an average of 1.5 million barrels of oil per day, according to OPEC, but it is still short of its two million bpd target.

AFP

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Nigeria's poultry industry, a key contributor to the nation's agricultural GDP, is under pressure due to rising production costs, weak policies, and recurring disease outbreaks. Experts warn that without government intervention, the industry may lose its growth momentum.

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Nigerian army repels drone-backed insurgent attacks

Extremist insurgents launched simultaneous attacks in four districts of Northeastern Nigeria using armed drones and heavy firepower and torched a military barracks before being repelled by troops, a Nigerian army spokesperson said on Thursday.

Extremists carried out the attacks between midnight and 0300 GMT on three troop positions in Borno State and another in neighboring Yobe State.

“Some troops were wounded in action but are in stable condition. Vehicles and buildings were gutted by fire from the terrorists’ armed drones and RPG (rocket propelled grenades) fire, especially in Mafa and Dikwa where the defenses were momentarily breached,” said Sani Uba, spokesperson for the Nigerian military’s counterinsurgency operation.

Nigerian troops killed 50 of the attackers and recovered ammunition, he added.

Nigeria has grappled for over 15 years with the insurgency, which has led to the death of tens of thousands and displaced more than 2 million people, humanitarian aid groups say.

Two security sources said the insurgents had tried to cut off reinforcements to troops but were forced to retreat after the military brought in fighter jets.

Four soldiers were killed and five wounded this month during an insurgent attack in Borno.

Insurgents have launched at least 333 attacks in Northeast Nigeria this year, compared to 375 in 2024, data compiled by conflict monitoring group ACLED showed.

The insurgency is part of widespread insecurity that continues to plague Africa’s most populous country, which is also dealing with attacks by armed gangs in the Northwest and deadly farmer-herder clashes in the central belt.

Alaribya English

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More than 70 turtles have been rescued thanks to conservation efforts over the past five years. Advocates say more public awareness is urgently needed to protect marine life and preserve fragile coastal ecosystems.

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Video - Nigeria targets Boko Haram, 17 militants killed and dozens arrested in raids

Nigerian forces killed 17 militants and arrested 85 in anti-terror raids across Borno and Adamawa states. The operations also rescued 10 abductees and targeted Boko Haram informants, suppliers, and collaborators. The ongoing insurgency has killed over 40,000 and displaced 2 million people since the crisis began.

CGTN Africa

Dozens killed in Nigeria fuel tanker explosion

At least 39 people have been killed in an oil tanker explosion in Nigeria's central Niger state after the vehicle skidded off the road and crashed, spilling fuel, an aid worker has told the BBC.

Another 60 people with varying degrees of injuries are currently receiving treatment at a hospital, said Abdullahi Baba Ara, head of the Niger state emergency service.

Villagers rushed to collect fuel from the overturned tanker which suddenly exploded, setting off a massive fire that engulfed them.

Tanker explosions are a recurring tragedy in Nigeria, despite repeated warnings about the dangers of collecting spilled fuel.

The intense blaze burned many victims beyond recognition, and the injured were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The accident occurred near the Essan and Badeggi communities along the Bida-Agaie road in the Katcha Local Government Area of Niger state.

Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago sent his condolences to the people, describing the incident as "worrisome, unfortunate and pathetic".

"[It] is disheartening how people have continued to approach a fallen tanker to scoop its contents" despite several awareness campaigns, said a statement by his chief press secretary Bologi Ibrahim.

The tanker, carrying petroleum products from Lagos in southern Nigeria to the north, is said to have crashed due to the bad condition of the road.

Poor road conditions are a major contributor to road accidents in the country.

In October last year, a fuel tanker explosion killed 153 people in Jigawa state, north-west Nigeria.

In January this year, a truck carrying about 60,000 litres of petrol overturned near Suleja, also in Niger state, killing at least 86 people and injuring nearly 70 others.

By Chris Ewokor, BBC

Related story: Video - Experts say Nigeria’s fuel truck ban won’t curb accidents

Nigeria cancel friendlies in USA due to World Cup playoffs

Nigeria will not be going ahead with planned friendlies against Venezuela and Colombia in the USA next month, after the Super Eagles qualified for the World Cup playoffs which take place in Morocco at the same time.

The NFF had announced the two games last month, with the Super Eagles scheduled to play Venezuela on November 14 at the Shell Energy Stadium in Houston and Colombia on November 18 at Citi Field in New York.

Tickets for both games were already on sale, but a top NFF official told ESPN at the time that the games were conditional on the team's World Cup fate, and would only proceed if Nigeria avoided being drawn into the CAF World Cup playoff round, either by qualifying directly for the World Cup, or failing to make it entirely.

Last week, the Super Eagles beat Benin Republic to qualify for the World Cup playoffs, which take place from November 13 to 16, and officials said that the friendlies had now been shelved.

"We had a clause in the contract for the games covering this eventuality, if we qualified for the playoffs," NFF match agent Jairo Pachon of Eurodata Sport told ESPN.

"So we will not be going ahead with the matches any more. However, Colombia still want to play an African team as part of their preparation for the World Cup so we are working on that for now."

An NFF official added: "Our goal is to concentrate on the playoffs now and qualify from Africa and then focus on the intercontinental playoffs."

Also qualified for the CAF playoffs are Cameroon, Congo DR and Gabon.

Nigeria, on 41, are the highest-ranked of the four teams in the Africa playoffs. They will play Gabon, who are the lowest-ranked team at 77. The winner of that encounter plays the winner of the other semifinal between Cameroon (ranked 54) and Congo DR (ranked 60) for Africa's sole ticket to the intercontinental playoffs in Mexico in March.

For Nigeria, the playoffs would also serve as early preparation for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The Super Eagles, runners-up at the 2023 tournament in Ivory Coast, begin their Group C campaign against Tanzania on December 23 in Fez before facing Tunisia and Uganda.

By Colin Udoh, ESPN

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The Nigerian government's plan is to revamp these facilities to store millions of tonnes of grain, supporting farmers and stabilizing food prices. Nigeria has declared two food emergencies in two years.

CGTN Africa

Dangote reassures Nigerians of fuel supply amid market confusion and rising prices

The Dangote refinery is advising marketers to come and load fuel from the facility as energy prices continue to soar. The refinery asserts that it has over 310 million liters of premium motor spirit (petrol) in its ranks.

Devakumar Edwin, the vice president of the Dangote Group, made the announcement on Friday while giving a tour of the refinery.

Marketers are free to bring any trucks to the gantry for loading, he said, because the refinery has enough gasoline for both the local and export markets.

He noted that fuel prices in filling stations may have gone up due to the misinformation that the Dangote Refinery had halted the sale of petrol.

“So, this one is again a campaign to try to say the prices will go up. I can go and try to increase my filling station price; maybe Dangote is not supplying.

Bring your tankers. We will load. Any number of tankers you bring, we’ll load. It’s a challenge I’m throwing today. No one can come and tell me I’m not loading.

We can load any number of tankers you bring. So, you can see whether I have the capacity to produce or not. We have more than 310 million litres as of now,” he stated.

“When the prices are a bit low, we buy a lot. When our stocks are going down, we buy a lot.

But at the same time, if your inventory of crude is very high, nobody would like to lock so much money into their tanks, because it’s money locked in the form of crude oil. So, we reduce our inflow, which is what happened,” he added, explaining why the refinery reduced its fuel intake.

In a confusing market shift, fuel prices in Nigeria had gone from around N865 per litre to almost N1,000, especially considering that crude prices and the country’s currency have been stable.

“But here, as I was explaining, I have more than 310 million litres of PMS as of today inside my tanks, apart from the production which is coming out every day,” he emphasised.

Filling stations in states such as Lagos, Ogun, and Abuja increased their pump prices as reported by the Punch.

On Thursday, it was reported that the Dangote oil refinery was reducing crude purchases, signaling ongoing operational issues that could keep global gasoline prices high until 2026.

This was addressed by the group’s vice president during the tour as he stated, “They said we have problems. No factory works 100 per cent every day without a problem. But if there is a problem, whether it is going to affect your final production or not is a key issue. So, normally, all these major businesses have what we call turnaround maintenance.”

However, analysts and tanker-tracking data revealed that the Lagos-based facility is purchasing fewer than 300,000 barrels of oil per day this month, a more than 50% decrease from its July peak and less than half of its projected capacity.

Bloomberg's figures show that both domestic and imported barrels are declining.

Since operations began, the refinery has been plagued by unanticipated outages, workforce interruptions, and equipment maintenance, resulting in frequent output slowdowns.

According to intelligence firm IIR Energy, the refinery's gasoline-making facility, Africa's largest of its kind, has been shut down numerous times this year and may shut down again early next year for extensive repairs.

This month, Dangote will get around 150,000 barrels per day of crude feedstock from a new supply agreement with the state-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC).

The balance is normally derived from the United States, although statistics reveal that no West Texas Intermediate cargoes were acquired in November.

By Chinedu Okafor, Business Insider Africa

Gunmen ambush security patrol in Nigeria’s northwest, killing 8

Gunmen ambushed a security personnel in Nigeria’s northwestern Zamfara state and killed at least eight people, the state’s governor said.

The attack took place Thursday on the Gusau-Funtua road in Zamfara state’s Tsafe area, and killed five police officers and three members of a local paramilitary group that works with the police, Gov. Dauda Lawal said in a statement posted on Facebook.

No group immediately claimed responsibility for the killings.

Such attacks are common in Nigeria’s northern region, where local herders and farmers often clash over limited access to land and water. The farmers accuse the herders, mostly of Fulani origin, of grazing their livestock on their farms and destroying their produce.

In recent months, there has been an increase in attacks by armed groups who kidnap residents for ransom in northwest Nigeria, and particularly in Zamfara state.

“We pray to God to bring an end to this security problem in Zamfara state and Nigeria,” Lawal said on Facebook.

Buhari Morki, a resident of Gusau, told The Associated Press that the gunmen waited in the bushes along the road where law enforcement officials usually patrol.

“The bandits were moving to a community in the area when they saw the patrol,” Moriki said.

Nigeria is also battling to contain Boko Haram insurgents in the northeast, where some 35,000 civilians have been killed and more than 2 million displaced, according to the United Nations.

By Dyepkazah Shibayan, AP

Nigeria’s $35m modular refinery scandal deepens as lawmakers launch probe

The project, intended as a 2,000-barrel-per-day modular refinery, was initiated by Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited in partnership with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) to enhance local refining capacity, create jobs, and deepen indigenous participation in the petroleum industry.

Despite an initial $35 million (₦50 billion) investment made in 2020, the refinery has remained dormant for four years, with no visible progress on the ground.

Reports suggest the project has become the subject of an Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) investigation over alleged fraudulent practices.

Raising the alarm during Wednesday’s plenary, Hon. Billy Osawaru, representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency in Edo State, described the situation as “a monumental economic sabotage.”

“Despite this huge investment, enough to fund key components of the national budget, nothing is on the ground to show that any progress has been made,” Osawaru told lawmakers.

He noted that in May 2024, a stakeholder petitioned the EFCC to probe the NCDMB’s multi-million-dollar investments, including the Brass modular refinery.

However, nearly a year later, “nothing has been heard about this profound national waste,” he said.

Osawaru warned that the continued inaction surrounding the project “raises significant questions about the management of public funds and the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms in Nigeria.”

The motion, titled “Need to Investigate the Abandoned $35 Million Modular Refinery Project in Brass, Bayelsa State,” received overwhelming support when Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu put it to a voice vote.

Following the resolution, the House referred the matter to its Committees on Petroleum Resources (Downstream and Midstream) for further legislative action. The committees have four weeks to submit their findings.

Across Africa, modular refineries have been promoted as a quicker, cost-effective solution to local refining shortages.

However, the Brass refinery’s fate now serves as a cautionary tale on how governance lapses and corruption can stall industrial progress, even amid the continent’s renewed push for energy self-sufficiency.

By Segun Adeyemi, Business Insider Africa

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CGTN Africa

MTN Nigeria Unveils Plan to Connect 8 Million Homes with Fibre Network by 2028

The initiative supports the federal government’s National Broadband Plan and Digital Economy Policy, aiming to deliver reliable, high-speed internet to households, businesses, and SMEs across the country.

MTN Nigeria has announced plans to expand its fibre network to reach over eight million homes nationwide by 2028, reinforcing its commitment to broadband growth and digital inclusion.

The initiative supports the federal government’s National Broadband Plan and Digital Economy Policy, aiming to deliver reliable, high-speed internet to households, businesses, and SMEs across the country. MTN said the expansion is driven by Nigeria’s growing population, urbanisation, and increasing demand for low-latency connectivity to support data-heavy services and remote work.

To achieve this, the company is partnering with infrastructure providers, state governments, and local contractors to ensure sustainable fibre rollout. MTN also plans to integrate fibre into new housing projects while addressing challenges such as vandalism, right-of-way constraints, and network damages from road construction.

The telecom operator commended the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) for designating telecom infrastructure as national assets and facilitating supportive policies. MTN reaffirmed its goal to deliver affordable, reliable broadband access and strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy.

Tech Africa News

Nigeria turns to China for a new $2 billion loan to rebuild ailing power grid

After decades of unreliable electricity and frequent blackouts, Nigeria is seeking a $2 billion lifeline to rebuild its ailing power grid and restore confidence in its industrial energy supply.

Minister of Power, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu, confirmed the development during an economic summit in Abuja, noting that the new grid will connect Nigeria’s eastern and western regions, where a significant proportion of industrial activities are concentrated.

“It is part of the government’s plan to decentralise power generation and encourage large-scale commercial users, who exited the national grid due to its unreliability, to return,” Adelabu stated.

A Persistent Power Deficit

Nigeria’s energy crisis remains one of the most pressing constraints on its economic growth. Despite an installed generation capacity of about 13 gigawatts, the national grid delivers barely 4 gigawatts to more than 200 million citizens.

Frequent blackouts and outdated infrastructure have pushed many factories, businesses, and households to rely on self-generated power from diesel and gas generators.

The resulting operational costs have constrained productivity, raised inflationary pressures, and diminished competitiveness in the manufacturing sector.

By contrast, South Africa, with about a quarter of Nigeria’s population, has an installed generation capacity of roughly 70 gigawatts, underscoring the vast energy gap that continues to constrain Nigeria’s industrial competitiveness.

However, the proposed super grid is expected to enhance transmission efficiency, improve reliability, and ensure greater power delivery to key industrial zones. Minister Adelabu confirmed that the Federal Executive Council has already approved the project’s financing framework.

Expanding China’s Energy Footprint in Africa

The $2 billion super grid loan forms part of President Bola Tinubu’s broader economic and energy reform strategy designed to attract foreign investment and reposition Nigeria as a key player in Africa’s power market.

It also reinforces China’s growing role in financing major infrastructure projects across the continent.

Beyond the EximBank talks, Nigeria has secured $1.1 billion from the African Development Bank (AfDB) to expand electricity access, $70 million from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) for mini-grid development, and $328.8 million from Chinese firm CMEC to upgrade transmission infrastructure.

In October 2023, the government also signed a $2 billion Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with three Chinese firms to invest in power generation and digital economy projects. In addition, Nigeria and China renewed a $2 billion currency-swap agreement in late 2024 to strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties.

Adelabu’s team confirmed to Bloomberg that discussions with China’s EximBank are ongoing and “progressing positively.”

Tariff Reforms and Financial Stability

The minister further revealed that recent tariff adjustments for urban consumers have improved the financial sustainability of the electricity sector. Industry revenues increased by 70 percent in 2024 and are projected to rise by a further 41 percent this year, reaching ₦2.4 trillion ($1.6 billion).

“These changes will enable power firms to reinvest in infrastructure, expand access, and improve reliability,” Adelabu said.

The tariff reforms, though controversial, are part of the government’s effort to create a cost-reflective pricing system capable of attracting long-term investment.


Powering Africa’s Industrial Ambitions

The “super grid” initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s wider economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, overhaul of tax laws, and improved security in oil-producing regions to boost crude output.

Since assuming office in 2023, Tinubu has placed energy reform at the heart of his administration’s agenda for industrialisation and job creation.

Despite ongoing interventions, Nigeria’s national grid continues to suffer from instability. Data from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) show multiple partial and total collapses in 2024, including two nationwide blackouts.

Adelabu said the proposed super grid would deploy advanced transmission technology to increase capacity and reduce system failures.


Toward a Regional Power Hub

Nigeria’s energy reform efforts have continental implications. The development of a super grid could not only stabilise domestic supply but also enable the country to export power to neighbouring states through the West African Power Pool (WAPP) framework, advancing regional energy integration.

By Olamilekan Okebiorun, Business Insider Africa

Related story: Chinese firms launch solar project to light up Nigerian capital city

The Dangote Refinery Strike Cost Nigeria 600,000 Barrels of Oil Output

A three-day national strike prompted by layoffs at the Dangote refinery has led to production losses of 600,000 barrels, the chief executive of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company has said.

"I think it was unfortunate that the Dangote and PENGASSAN issue led to strike and whenever there is strike and critical staff manning critical facilities are not available and optimum production is almost impossible. In this particular case, we actually lost significant production of over 200,000 bpd that was deferred," Bayo Ojulari told media.

The main Nigerian oil union launched a nationwide strike last month after the Dangote refinery fired as many as 800 workers. The strike lasted for three days, threatening to reduce fuel supply in the country relying on the new processing facility and in several neighboring countries, which import fuels from Dangote.

The Nigerian oil workers' union, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), said that the Dangote refinery, owned by Africa's richest man Aliko Dangote, has fired the workers for unionizing. The Dangote management, for its part, said that the dismissals were part of staff restructuring and those dismissed engaged in "acts of sabotage".

The strike came at a time when Nigeria's oil industry is staging a recovery, with oil production on the rise and investments climbing. Production as of September-before the strike-averaged between 1.7 million barrels daily and 1.83 million barrels daily, with active rigs rising from 31 at the start of the year to 50 by July, according to a report from the oil ministry.

According to NNPC's Ojulari, the September average was 1.68 million barrels, which was an increase from August. In natural gas, Nigeria produced 7 billion cubic feet daily last month, the top executive also told media, adding that by the end of the year, oil production should rebound to 1.8 million barrels daily.

By Irina Slav, Oilprice.com

Nigeria’s life expectancy ranked lowest globally

Nigeria now stands as the world’s lowest life expectancy, according to a new United Nations data for 2025, which confirms a national average of just 54.9 years. This statistic, highlighted in the latest UN global health report, places Nigeria behind every other country in the world.

The numbers show men in Nigeria live an average of 54.3 years, while women reach 54.9, each figure far below Africa’s continental average and less than three-quarters of the global benchmark of 73.7 years. For comparison, Chad and the Central African Republic barely surpass Nigeria, with life expectancies of 55.2 and 57.7 years, respectively.

Why is this the case

Experts link Nigeria’s dismal ranking to persistent health system challenges, including a high burden of infectious diseases, poor access to quality care, and frequent health worker strikes. Widespread insecurity, poverty, and environmental pollution compound the crisis, reflecting the broader structural struggles impacting millions of Nigerians daily.

These statistics come at a time of increased focus on global health inequalities, with calls rising for urgent government and international interventions. Public health advocates warn that unless Nigeria addresses critical shortages in medical infrastructure and tackles the underlying socio-economic issues, its population will remain among the world’s most vulnerable.

The UN report underscores that Nigeria’s situation is not simply a health challenge but a warning signal for social and economic progress. As world leaders prepare for upcoming global summits, Nigeria’s record-low life expectancy demands action and stands as a stark reminder of the urgent need for reform.

Africa News

Nigeria’s first national microchip design framework to drive digital sovereignty

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), in partnership with U.S.-based ChipMango, unveiled Nigeria’s first national microchip design framework, a move seen by many in the industry as a defining step toward digital sovereignty.

For a nation that has long depended on imported technology, the announcement during the GITEX Nigeria 2025 in Lagos marked a bold pivot.

“We are building a future where Nigerian talent leads in semiconductor design,” said Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, NITDA’s director general, during the launch. “This framework embodies our vision for digital sovereignty and inclusion, creating jobs, exports, and innovation for generations to come.”

The framework rests on three pillars: capacity building, outsourcing, and policy alignment. Central to this plan is ChipMango’s AI-powered e-learning platform, which will provide Nigerian students with hands-on training, simulation tools, and globally recognised certifications. Already in use in U.S. universities, the platform is designed to turn learners into industry-ready chip designers.

Beyond education, the framework positions Nigeria as a global hub for microchip design outsourcing, linking local talent to international projects worth billions of dollars. Policy integration with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and NITDA’s Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2.0) ensures the initiative is tied to national economic goals.

A distinctive feature is inclusion. Women, often underrepresented in STEM, are placed at the centre of the effort through outreach, mentorship, and scholarship programmes to ensure a diverse and innovative talent pool.

The unveiling also launched the NITDA–ChipMango Innovation Challenge 2025, a nationwide competition inviting students across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to design chip-based solutions for healthcare, agriculture, robotics, and AI. Winning teams will gain recognition, mentorship, and industry certification.

For ChipMango’s Nigerian-born CEO, Ola Fadiran, the mission is clear. “This is more than a framework; it is a national strategy,” he said. “Together with NITDA, we are nurturing experts, innovators, and leaders who will power Nigeria’s microchip design economy.

Momentum will continue at Digital Nigeria 2025, where discussions will focus on building a national outsourcing ecosystem around the framework.

For many students in the audience, the launch was more than policy; it was a glimpse into a future where Nigeria’s chips could power the world. As one whispered to a friend, eyes wide with possibility, Maybe the next iPhone chip could come from Nigeria.

By Chinwe Michael, Business Day

Chinese firms launch solar project to light up Nigerian capital city

Two Chinese construction firms, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and CGCOC Group Co., Ltd., have officially broken ground on the "Light Up Abuja" project, a flagship infrastructure initiative of Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

Government officials and residents gathered on Thursday for the launch ceremony in Abuja, the Nigerian capital, which marked the start of comprehensive installations of advanced hybrid solar streetlights across the city -- a move expected to significantly enhance security and urban development.

The project, divided into two main parts, assigns CCECC and CGCOC key responsibilities for delivering integrated solar lighting systems across major districts and expressways in the FCTA.

Speaking at the ceremony, FCTA Minister Nyesom Wike highlighted the project's importance in improving residents' quality of life and safety. He noted that conventional streetlights had become largely dysfunctional due to vandalism and poor maintenance, while the new hybrid solar systems are equipped with built-in resilience and advanced features to overcome these challenges.

A key innovation, Wike said, is the integration of surveillance modules into the streetlights. These will connect to a centralized control room, enabling real-time monitoring and rapid response to vandalism and other security threats. This technology, he added, is expected to deter criminal activity and safeguard government investments in public infrastructure.

Wike hailed the deepening comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Nigeria in infrastructure development, describing the project as a tangible outcome of President Bola Tinubu's state visit to Beijing in September 2024 and a reinforcement of the mutually beneficial ties between the two countries.

Scheduled for completion within six to seven months, the project aims to transform Abuja's nighttime landscape ahead of the city's 50th anniversary in 2026. Under the agreement, the two Chinese firms will not only install but also maintain the solar lighting systems for four to five years.

"This project actually captures all the major areas of Abuja. As we all know, light is essential to our lives and livelihood. In this work, what we will deliver to Nigerians is not only the streetlight, but we will also proffer solutions to power supply and lighting problems, using solar energy," said Guan Shuai, managing director of CCECC in Nigeria.

People's Daily Online

Video - Nigeria’s shea nut export ban hits rural women

The government says the export ban will boost local processing. The women who handle most of the shea nut processing and production say they are being pushed out of the market, losing their main source of livelihood.

CGTN Africa

Video - Nigerian President Tinubu: Country is on economic recovery path

President Bola Tinubu says that Nigerians should brace for better days ahead following drastic and controversial reforms that have left millions struggling with rising costs. However, analysts disagree, saying the country of nearly 200 million people is struggling with a high unemployment rate.

CGTN Africa

Nigeria Launches Nationwide Cashless Payment System at Airports, Boosting its Efficiency, Transparency and Aviation Sector Growth

Nigeria’s Federal Airports Authority, FAAN, has introduced a cashless and contactless payment option at two of the country’s busiest airports, Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The move is expected to transform the airport experience, simplify operations, and enhance the financial efficacy of airport transactions.

By shifting to electronic transactions, FAAN hopes to improve customer satisfaction, increase transparency, and lower the risk of revenue leakage, particularly from non-aeronautical sources such as parking, gates, and lounges. This forms part of Nigeria’s overall strategy to upgrade its aviation infrastructure.

Boosting Operational Efficiency and Transparency

The introduction of a cashless payment system aims to increase transparency and efficiency in Nigeria’s airports. By eliminating cash transactions, FAAN is ensuring that all payments are secure, traceable, and easily monitored. This shift will not only streamline airport operations but also provide real-time data for better financial management.

The system will reduce inefficiencies, improve customer experience, and help minimize opportunities for corruption or mismanagement, ultimately enhancing the quality of services provided to travelers and boosting trust in airport operations.

Projected Revenue Increase by 75% with Nationwide Rollout

FAAN has estimated that the introduction of cashless and contactless payments will increase airport revenues by up to 75% as it expands to more locations across the country. With electronic payments in place, the process of tracking, managing, and collecting revenue becomes more accurate and efficient.

This transformation also means that the country’s airports will be better positioned to maximize non-aeronautical revenues, which are increasingly crucial for supporting the overall financial health of the aviation sector.


Aligning with Global Standards for Seamless Transactions

This move toward cashless transactions aligns Nigeria’s airports with global standards, ensuring they meet the expectations of international travelers who are increasingly accustomed to seamless, secure, and contactless payments. Many major airports around the world have already implemented similar systems, and Nigeria’s adoption of this technology ensures that its airports remain competitive and up to date with global industry trends.

By adopting contactless technology, Nigerian airports are setting the stage for future-proofing their operations in line with the international trend of digital transformation in the aviation sector.

Promoting Financial Inclusion Through Digital Payments

A key benefit of the cashless payment system is its ability to promote financial inclusion across Nigeria. As more payments are processed electronically, there is a greater opportunity for local populations, especially in underbanked or underserved areas, to access digital financial services. This aligns with broader national efforts to increase access to banking and mobile payment platforms.

With increased access to digital payment systems, people across Nigeria can become more integrated into the formal economy, furthering the nation’s goals of economic development and financial inclusivity.
Reducing Congestion and Improving Passenger Experience

The implementation of electronic payments is expected to reduce congestion at airport entry points like car parks, gates, and VIP lounges, where passengers often have to wait in line to make payments. With contactless and mobile payment options, passengers can complete their transactions faster, enhancing overall airport efficiency and passenger satisfaction.

The seamless experience provided by the system will help reduce the time spent waiting in queues and improve the flow of passengers through the airport, contributing to an overall better travel experience.

Improving Data Accuracy for Better Decision Making

The move to electronic payments will also significantly enhance the accuracy of financial data collected at Nigerian airports. Digital records provide precise and real-time data on transactions, making it easier to track and analyze revenue streams. This will allow airport authorities to make more informed decisions based on reliable data, leading to improved budgeting, planning, and resource allocation.

Having accurate financial data also supports better strategic decision-making, enabling FAAN to optimize airport operations and align its growth strategies with real-time insights.
National Rollout by Early 2026 with Public Education Campaigns

The successful implementation of the cashless payment system at Lagos and Abuja airports is just the beginning. FAAN has announced plans for a nationwide rollout by early 2026. The new system will be expanded to more airports across Nigeria, with the goal of creating a fully digital and efficient airport network nationwide.

To ensure smooth adoption, FAAN will launch public education campaigns to raise awareness about the benefits of cashless transactions and guide passengers on how to use the new payment methods. These campaigns will help familiarize travelers with mobile payments, QR code scanning, and other digital options, ensuring a seamless transition across the country.

Regional Impact and Potential for Africa’s Aviation Sector

Nigeria’s adoption of cashless and contactless payments is being closely monitored by stakeholders in other parts of Africa, as it serves as a potential model for digital transformation in the region’s aviation sector. Many African countries face challenges related to revenue leakage and inefficient payment systems, and Nigeria’s success could offer valuable lessons in how to modernize airport infrastructure and improve operational efficiency.

This initiative places Nigeria at the forefront of aviation innovation in Africa, potentially setting a benchmark for other countries seeking to enhance competitiveness and streamline their airport operations.

Strengthening Nigeria’s Position in the Global Aviation Market

With the implementation of this cashless payment system, Nigeria’s aviation industry is positioning itself as a global competitor in the aviation and tourism markets. By modernizing its airport services, Nigeria is creating a more attractive and efficient environment for business travelers, tourists, and investors.

As the system expands to more airports and begins to improve the overall travel experience, Nigeria is expected to see a surge in international tourism and business opportunities, solidifying its place as a regional leader in aviation and tourism infrastructure development.

A Bright Future for Nigeria’s Aviation Sector

The introduction of the cashless and contactless payment system in Nigeria’s key airports represents a major highlight in the nation’s aviation industry. With its focus on enhancing transparency, efficiency, and customer experience, this digital transformation is likely to yield long-term gains not just for Nigeria’s airports but for the wider aviation sector in Africa. As the system grows across the country, Nigeria will remain at the forefront of digital transformation in the aviation space, setting a high benchmark for other nations in the region.

TTW

Video - Nigerian egusi seeds return from space mission for genetic research

Seeds key to Nigeria's beloved egusi soup orbited Earth for seven days aboard the International Space Station. The seeds, sourced from Oyo State, are now back home being analyzed to see how plants can adapt to microgravity, and whether egusi can one day be served to African astronauts in space.

CGTN Africa

Related story: NASRDA Signs MoU with SERA to Launch First Astronaut to Space from Nigeria

Despite pervasive insecurity, Tinubu says his govt winning war against violent crimes

Despite the regular killing and kidnapping of Nigerians in different parts of the country by armed groups, President Bola Tinubu said security agencies in his administration “are winning the war against terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes.”

The Nigerian leader spoke Wednesday in a nationwide broadcast to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

PREMIUM TIMES has reported several cases of killings by armed groups in states like Niger, Kwara, Katsina, Zamfara, Anambra, and Borno. The killings have continued despite the efforts of security agencies.

Mr Tinubu, however, said victories achieved need to be celebrated.

“Peace has returned to hundreds of our liberated communities in North-West and North-East, and thousands of our people have returned safely to their homes,” he said.

Is Security Improving

The president’s words could pass as a political statement that does not reflect what millions of Nigerians are going through.

An analysis of Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED), a global data hub that collects real-time conflict-related data, showed that 7,472 people were killed while 12,584 were abducted in President Tinubu’s two years leadership. This data, based on attacks from 29 May 2023 to 19 May 2025, focuses exclusively on deaths and abductions perpetrated by terror groups.

Although the country has recorded some achievements against insecurity including the killings of over 15,000 insurgents in the North-east, the arrests of Ansaru leaders and the killings of bandits kingpins, the continued waves of violence put these feats to test.

Waves of violence

Terrorists continue to disrupt peace and stability in the three geopolitical zones in the north.

For the past few weeks, they have intensified attacks against civilians and security forces.

In Borno State, where Boko Haram and its splinter group, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have made a strong comeback, there is a resurgence of attacks and redisplacement of recently resettled communities.

Since January, insurgents have killed more than 130 people including in Borno. Some of the attacks as seen here, here, here, and here, targeted civilians and soldiers who were ambushed at their bases.

The North-east insurgency ravaging BAY (Borno, Adamawa and Yobe) states has lingered for 15 years, resulting in more than 40,000 deaths and around two million displacements.

In Niger State where bandits groups often collaborate with core terrorist groups like the Sadiku Boko Haram faction, abductions and killings have resurfaced.

Local residents told PREMIUM TIMES that armed gangs have laid siege to several communities in the northern senatorial district in the state. On Monday, the terrorists kidnapped many people from this area, including a former chairperson of Niger State Universal Basic Education Board.

A worse and similar pattern was witnessed in neighbouring Kwara State. At least 15 vigilantes and hunters were killed by terrorists in Oke-Ode, Ifelodun Local Government Area. Scores of villagers were also abducted during the raid.

In Patigi Local Government Area, where a pregnant woman and nine others were killed, several villages have been devastated by terrorists who specialise in cattle rustling and kidnapping for ransom.

Violence seemed to have simmered in Benue following the infamous Yelwata attack that claimed more than 200 lives, but attacks against security forces continue with the latest killing of nine police officers last month.

In Plateau, gunmen killed six people and abducted two others on 14 September in a village in Bokkos Local Government Area.

In the South-east, Amnesty International said at least 1,844 people were killed between January 2021 and June 2023. PREMIUM TIMES understands that the violence continues in remote areas.

The South-south region is also faced with a peculiar threat including waterway abductions, according to our analysis of the ACLED data. Cultism and other forms of violence remain the major threats in South-west.

By Yakubu Mohammed, Premium Times

Niger River boat accident kills at least 26 people in Nigeria

An accident involving a boat carrying passengers on the Niger River in north-central Nigeria has killed at least 26 people, an official said Wednesday.

The accident happened Tuesday in the Ibaji area of Kogi state. The passengers were mostly traders headed to a market in neighboring Edo State, said Kingsley Fanwo, the Kogi state commissioner for information.

The cause of the accident was not immediately known.

“This is a heartbreaking loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased, as well as the entire Ibaji local government area, in this moment of grief,” Fanwo said in a statement.

Kogi state government will work with federal agencies to improve waterway safety and prevent a repeat of such accidents, Fanwo said.

Boat accidents are common during the rainy season in remote areas of Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country.

The accidents often are caused by overloaded and poorly maintained vessels, which analysts say often operate without life jackets.

At least 31 people were killed last month when an overloaded boat hit a tree trunk in the Borgu area of Niger state.

By Dyepkazah Shibayan, AP

Related story: ‘Over 400 Killed in 6 Months’: The Sorry Cases of Boat Mishaps in Nigeria

Nigeria avoids energy disruption as Dangote resolves dispute with a major oil union

The Nigerian labor ministry, which was an instrumental figure in the mediation between both parties, recently announced that the oil union has decided to call off its protest against the refinery.

PENGASSAN’s grievance was brought on by allegations that the Dangote Refinery fired hundreds of workers tied to the union.

This ultimately led to a strike, which threatened the security of energy distribution in Africa’s most populous market.

However, the Nigerian labor ministry, via a statement issued on Wednesday, disclosed that PENGASSAN has decided to call off its strike.

“The Honourable Minister of Labour informed the meeting that unionisation is a right of workers in accordance with the laws of Nigeria, and this right should be respected,” the statement revealed.

“After examining the procedure used in the disengagement of workers, the meeting agreed that the management of Dangote Group shall immediately begin the process of redeploying the disengaged staff to other companies within the Dangote Group, with no loss of pay.

No worker will be victimised arising from their role in the impasse between Dangote and PENGASSAN.

PENGASSAN agreed to start the process of calling off the strike. Both parties agreed to this understanding in good faith,” the statement added, as seen on the Punch.

The meeting between both parties, which has yielded results, remained in a stalemate on the first day of negotiations.

Mohammed Dingyadi, the Minister of Labor and Employment, and Nkiruka Onyejeocha, the Minister of State for Labor and Employment, participated in a nine-hour-long dialogue that lasted until early Tuesday morning.

However, the second phase of the meeting, which included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Dingyadi; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu; Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Barr. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, Director-General of the DSS, Adeola Ajayi, and the Director-General of the NIA, Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed, have led to an agreement.

Origins of Dangote’s dispute with PENGASSAN

Following the dismissal of hundreds of employees, the Dangote Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) became embroiled in a major dispute.

The union alleged that Dangote violated labor rights and discriminated against local employees by firing over 800 Nigerians who joined PENGASSAN, replacing them with foreign workers.

Nigeria's downstream oil industry was severely disrupted when the union retaliated by asking that the delivery of gas and crude oil to the $20 billion refinery be suspended.

They then launched a nationwide strike, which has garnered support from other downstream union groups.

By Chinedu Okafor, Business Insider Africa

President Tinubu says "worst is over" on independence day amid worsening hardship

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu declared on Wednesday that the “worst is over” following a series of painful economic reforms that have left millions struggling with rising costs and deepening poverty.

In a national address marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day, Tinubu defended his administration’s decision to scrap fuel subsidies and unify the foreign exchange rate - moves that triggered inflation and widespread public anger but, he said, were necessary to “reset” the economy.

“Less than three years later, the seeds of those difficult but necessary decisions are bearing fruit,” Tinubu said.

He cited second-quarter GDP growth of 4.23% - the fastest in four years - and a decline in inflation to 20.12% in August, the lowest in three years.

Tinubu also pointed to five consecutive quarters of trade surpluses, a rebound in oil production to 1.68 million barrels per day, and a rise in external reserves to $42.03 billion - the highest since 2019.

The president said the government had disbursed 330 billion naira ($222.90 million) to eight million vulnerable households under its social investment programme and was expanding infrastructure across rail, roads, airports, and seaports.

However, critics questioned the transparency of the cash transfer scheme. Two weeks ago, the finance minister announced the disbursement, sparking calls for a public register of beneficiaries.

Despite Tinubu’s upbeat tone, the IMF’s most recent Article IV assessment warned of persistently high inflation and worsening poverty.

Over 129 million Nigerians - more than half the population - live below the poverty line, while funding cuts by international donors have forced the World Food Programme to shut down 150 nutrition centres in the conflict-hit northeast.

“We are racing against time,” Tinubu said, even as critics including opposition party leader Peter Obi argue that his spending priorities have not matched the scale of the country’s humanitarian and economic challenges.

The speech comes amid growing labour unrest over the recent dismissal of 800 workers at the privately owned Dangote Oil Refinery for unionising.

The dispute has disrupted power supply and could threaten the oil production gains touted by Tinubu. ($1=1,480.4900 naira)

By Isaac Anyaogu, Reuters

Video - Nigeria’s new 20 percent expat tax sparks investment concerns

Nigeria’s 2025 Tax Act, effective January 1, 2026, will impose a 20 percent tax on expatriates earning over $521 monthly, replacing outdated regulations to generate trillions of naira. Critics warn it could deter foreign investment and complicate diplomatic ties.

CGTN Africa

Bill Maher calls out media for ignoring killing of Christians in Nigeria

 

Comedian and television host Bill Maher, known for his acerbic wit, is calling out the media for its silence on the ongoing persecution of Christians in Nigeria.

“If you don’t know what’s going on in Nigeria, your media sources suck. You are in a bubble. And, again, I’m not a Christian, but they are systematically killing the Christians in Nigeria,” Maher said on his show “Real Time with Bill Maher” on September 27.

“They’ve killed over 100,000 since 2009. They’ve burned 18,000 churches,” Maher said. “This is so much more of a genocide attempt than what is going on in Gaza. They are literally attempting to wipe out the Christian population of an entire country. Where are the kids protesting this?”

Maher famously hosted the show “Politically Incorrect” and has said he is not beholden to any party or ideology. He often provides scathing sociopolitical commentary on his television show and podcast.

By Susie Pinto, News Nation