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FG Signs $328M Agreement to boost Nigeria’s electricity supply

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) Power Company has announced the signing of a major Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Financing (EPC&F) contract with China Machinery Engineering Company (CMEC) group worth US$328,818,916.99 to boost power supply across Nigeria.

Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu while speaking in Abuja on Wednesday at the signing ceremony stated that the project will ensure the rehabilitation and extensive construction of 330 kV and 132 kV transmission lines under Phase 1 of the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI) while preventing stranded capacity in the grid.

Adebayo explained that the project
with a load capacity of 7,140
megawatts will act as the arteries that carry the increased power generated through Nigeria’s midstream transmission projects directly to the homes, businesses, and industries adding that the project is deliberately designed to seamlessly complement the ongoing midstream transmission enhancements.

“By focusing on upgrading and expanding our transmission network, we are directly addressing a key bottleneck in the power sector value chain. This will translate to a significant improvement in electricity reliability and accessibility for millions of Nigerians fostering economic growth, creating jobs, and enhancing the quality of life for our citizens.”.

Meanwhile, Adelabu noted that the government is aware of the current power supply challenges but is working tirelessly to address them hence the contract signing but emphasized that Nigerians should join hands in protecting the nation’s critical assets while they continue working towards providing affordable and reliable power supply to Nigerians.

“This project, I also want to reiterate that it will involve a lot of installation of expensive wire lines, expensive substations that are seen as national, critical national assets, we urge Nigerians to join hands in protecting this because it’s going to be executed with taxpayers’ money. Even if it is through finance, the repayment of the financing will be from
taxpayers’ money.

“If we destroy our transmission or distribution assets, we are destroying our own personal assets. So this asset must be guarded and protected generously for us to have unaltered and undisturbed regular power supply to our people.”. he added.

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, FGN Power Company, Kenny Anuwe on his part stated that the signing signifies a critical and concrete step towards
addressing the power infrastructure challenges of Nigeria adding that the expansion and upgrade of Nigeria’s transmission infrastructure are crucial for effectively wielding the incremental power that is generated from the work that Siemens Energy does.

Anuwe noted that having recognized that a robust and reliable transmission network is the backbone of a stable power
sector, he stressed that the partnership with CMEC is a strategic move to strengthen that backbone and to
ensure that the investments being made in generation can translate into tangible benefits for the Nigerian populace.

“We are particularly delighted to partner with CMEC on this transformative project.
The global reputation for engineering excellence, project execution capabilities, and commitment to quality are well established both in Nigeria and elsewhere. We are confident that this expertise will be invaluable in delivering this crucial infrastructure efficiently at the highest standards.”.

“Today, we are forging a power alliance to meet Nigeria’s growing energy and infrastructure needs.This contract is not just a procedural step. It is a reaffirmation of our commitment to transparency, accountability, and delivering on the promises made to Nigerians. We are
determined to ensure that this project is executed diligently, efficiently, and with the utmostattention to quality and timelines.”. he added.

Responding, Vice-President, CMEC, Li Xiaoyu expressed optimism about the contract and the timely execution of the project for the benefits of Nigerians.

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Sports

Joeboy Loses N3 Million Champions League Bet as Arsenal Crush Real Madrid

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Nigerian singer, Joeboy, lost a N3million bet after Arsenal beat Real Madrid 3-0 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday.

Seven hours before kick-off, Joeboy posted a betting slip with the caption, “Cashing out on Arsenal tears tonight!”

The Controller crooner could have won N10,345,000 if Madrid has won at the Emirates.

But Declan Rice curled in two beautiful free-kicks to give the Gunners the lead, before Mikel Merino added a third.

The result left Joeboy short of words, as he could only tweet “Goodnight” at full time.

Arsenal will be looking to book their place in the semi-final when they travel to the Santiago Bernabeu for the second leg next Wednesday.

Before that game, Mikel Arteta’s men host Brentford in the Premier League.

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Headlines

BREAKING: Rivers Sole Administrator, Ibas Appoints Administrators For 23 Rivers LGs

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) has approved the appointment of administrators for the 23 Local Government Areas of the state.

This comes less that 24 hours after a Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt reportedly restrained him from appointing administrators to oversea the affairs of the local government councils.

The order was issued by Justice Adam Muhammed on Tuesday in suit no. FHC/PH/CS/46/2025 in the case filed by PILEX Centre for Civic Education Initiative led by Courage Msirimovu against the Sole Administrator in his official capacity.

However, Ibas also approved the constitution of some boards of agencies, commissions and parastatals which he had earlier suspended.

The approval was contained in a Special Government Announcement issued on Wednesday morning by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Worika.

Though the names of the new appointees were not listed, the statement said the appointments takes immediate effect.

It reads, “His Excellency The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas CFR, has approved the appointments of administrators for the 23 Local Government Areas of Rivers State.

“He has also approved the reconstitution of some boards of agencies, commissions, and parastatals, earlier suspended.

“All appointments take effect from Monday, the 7th of April 2025.”

Recall that last week, the sole administrator had suspended all heads of Ministries, Departments and Agencies in the state with immediate effect.

In a separate development, Ibas also cancelled all pending procurement and tender processes carried out by Ministries, Departments and Agencies in the state.

He said the cancellation became necessary following the Supreme Court judgment and the absence of an appropriation law within the period.

The sole administrator according to a previous statement also issued by the SSG, directed all MDAs that carried out such tender processes for projects in their respective offices to refund such fees to the respective contractors immediately.

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Sports

Omisore to Launch 20th KOLAtoons Soccer Tournament on April 18, Pledges 750 Food Palliatives for Constituents

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Desirous of fostering local talent development through grassroots football, the Secretary to the Local Council Development Area of Ojokoro, Community. Kola Omisore has concluded plans to host the 20th edition of the Kolatoons 5-aside Football tournament.

Scheduled to hold on Friday, 18th of April 2025 at Gbeleyi Primary School, Amje, Ojokoro, Lagos State, the tournament will bring together young football talents to compete in the beautiful game, nurture budding talents, and instill values of teamwork and discipline.

Highlighting the importance of the KOLAtoons Soccer Initiatives to the Ojokoro community, Omisore noted that “the tournament has evolved into a cornerstone event that celebrates not just the beautiful game, but also resilience, community spirit, and purposeful leadership.

“As we kick off the 20th edition of this tournament, we are also kicking off a new era of service, support, and shared progress in Ojokoro. For me, this day represents more than just football, it’s about care and commitment to a brighter future for the next generation.

“This landmark edition marks years of empowering the youth and empowering communities through sport. We are providing palliatives to 750 constituents that will be distributed to families in our dedication to inclusive development. I am proud to stand with my people in all aspects of life, and for the future we envision together,” He stated.

Omisore further noted that he will officially roll out his agenda aimed at delivering ‘’S.E.R.V.I.C.E to Y.O.U’’ nothing that the acronym “S.E.R.V.I.C.E” encapsulates his commitment to SECURITY & SOCIAL INCLUSION to a supportive community.

His words “Our goal is to ensure every individual feels safe and be a part of a supportive community. Our EMPOWERMENT scheme took centre stage as we strive to enable citizens reach their full potential. We uphold RELIGIOUS DIVERSITY & RETENTION and respect all beliefs, while maintaining a sense of unity. Our VALUES guide our actions and decisions, hence, promoting ethical governance and INNOVATION that fuels progress, and encourage creative solutions for societal challenges.

“We are focused on CARE & COMMITMENT which are demonstrated in our dedication to the well-being of all. We embrace EQUALITY for the YOUTH while ensuring that they have a voice and OPPORTUNITIES to thrive. Finally, we create opportunities for all, fostering an environment where everyone can succeed and drive UNCOMMON TRANSFORMATION.

“By implementing these strategic pillars, our vision is to make Ojokoro LCDA a role model for effective governance and sustainable development. He added.

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Health

FCT declares Free Health Insurance, C-Section Services for Pregnant Women

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) administration has declared a free health insurance scheme and caesarean section for all pregnant women living in the area.

The FCTA’s Mandate Secretary for Health, Adedolapo Fasewa, disclosed this on Monday while commemorating the 2025 World Health Day at the Gwarimpa District Hospital, Abuja.

Fasewa explained that for pregnant women to benefit from the free cesarean section, they have to register with the FCT Health Insurance Scheme (FHIS), adding that the scheme also comes with infant care after delivery.

Furthermore, she stated that Nigeria records the highest rate of maternal mortality in the sub-Saharan region.

But Fasewa said the present administration frowns at it and is already taking necessary steps to ensure the reduction as well as infant survival,

She urged all women to register for the free health insurance scheme, saying the fight against maternal mortality is not just for the Federal Government alone but requires collaborative efforts.

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Business

Fidelity Bank Distributes Food Packs to FCT Communities

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, recently donated food packs to Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja residents.

Themed, the Fidelity Food Bank initiative, the outreach saw the bank’s officials distribute the food items to seven communities in the Mabushi district of the FCT.

Speaking at the distribution event, the Executive Director, North, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Sufiyanu Garba, emphasized the bank’s commitment to community development and its alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 2, which seeks to eradicate hunger.

“This initiative stems from our deep-seated responsibility to support underserved communities and contribute to the fight against hunger in Nigeria,” said Mr. Garba. “At Fidelity Bank, we firmly believe that by addressing the root causes of poverty and hunger, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need. While we may not be able to solve all societal challenges, our contributions are making a difference, as evidenced by the positive feedback we continue to receive.”

He further reiterated the bank’s commitment to empowering communities, stating, “We recognize the importance of fostering growth and prosperity within the communities where we operate. By investing in their well-being, we contribute to the creation of a more sustainable and equitable society.”

The Fidelity Food Bank is one of the key pillars of the bank’s CSR strategy, focusing on health and social welfare. As a nationwide project, the initiative seeks to provide food relief to underserved communities across Nigeria, with a particular focus on supporting women and children.

Expressing appreciation for the initiative, the District Head of Mabushi Community, Mr. Hassan Danagna, commended Fidelity Bank for its generosity and its impact on the community.

“Fidelity Bank’s support to our community is unprecedented, and we are deeply grateful for this initiative, which provides relief to vulnerable households and less privileged families,” said Mr. Danagna. “Given the current economic challenges, this support is timely, particularly as we approach the holy month of Ramadan.”

One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Mukhtar Mohamed, also expressed his gratitude to the bank, acknowledging the significant impact of food distribution.

Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged commercial bank with over 9.1 million customers who are serviced across its 251 business offices and various digital banking channels in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine.

Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

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Business

Crude Oil Price Crash May Push Petrol Below N400/Litre – Refiners

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Crude Oil Refinery Owners Association of Nigeria has said that the price of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) can drop below N400 per litre with the current crash in crude oil prices.

CORAN argued that there is no reason petrol should not be sold at NN350 per litre if crude prices eventually fall to $50 per barrel.

However, CORAN said petrol prices will continue to rise despite the crash in crude prices and the reduction in its landing cost.

CORAN feared that unless the Federal Government continues the naira-for-crude deal, the price of petrol will be on the rise even if the price of crude oil falls to $50 per barrel.

The PUNCH reports that oil prices plunged last week to $65 per barrel as the United States import tariffs and an unexpected OPEC+ supply hike erased $10 per barrel from global benchmarks.

The price had appreciated earlier when US President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on any country that buys crude from Venezuela.

However, oil prices turned the corner as of Friday, with Brent falling to $65, the first time since 2021.

According to oilprice.com, the combined effect of Trump’s import tariffs, OPEC+’s inopportune decision to speed up the unwinding of production cuts, and China’s retaliatory actions wiped off $10 per barrel from global oil prices, “with ICE Brent falling below $65 per barrel for the first time since August 2021.”

The US West Texas Intermediate crude futures lost $4.96, or 7.4 per cent to end at $61.99.

China’s retaliatory tariffs on US goods were said to have escalated a trade war that has led investors to price in a higher probability of recession.

China, the world’s top oil importer, announced it will impose additional tariffs of 34 per cent on all US goods from April 10.

According to Reuters, nations around the world have readied retaliation after Trump raised tariffs to their highest in more than a century.

Aside from the tariffs, another factor that further pressured oil prices was the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and Allies’ decision to advance plans for output increases.

The group now aims to return 411,000 barrels per day to the market in May, up from the previously planned 135,000 bpd.

In a bulletin released by the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria, it was disclosed that the landing cost of petrol has dropped from N885 the week before to N865 as of Saturday.

However, despite the landing cost reduction, the ex-depot price of petrol rose from N860 to N900 per litre in Lagos, signalling the failure of the Nigerian market to react positively to the market forces.

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Headlines

Fake News: INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu Not Sacked – Presidency

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The presidency has debunked the rumors that the INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu has been replaced, describing it as ‘fake news.’

“Disregard any fake news making the rounds about the replacement of the INEC Chairman.

“Any such announcement will come from the SGF’s office or the any other official source.” – O’tega Ogra, Senior Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Digital Media and New Media.

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Headlines

2025 Hajj: Saudi Arabia Suspends Visas For Nigeria, 13 Other Countries

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended Umrah, business, and family visit visas for citizens of 14 countries, including Nigeria, Egypt, and India, as part of preparations for the upcoming Hajj season.

Officials speaking to ARY News said, “The suspension of Umrah, business, and family visit visas is aimed at preventing unregistered individuals from attempting to perform the pilgrimage.”

The move comes amid concerns over the rising number of pilgrims attempting to join Hajj without official permits. In recent years, many visitors have overstayed their visas, contributing to overcrowding and serious safety risks, News Arab reports.

Authorities also expressed concern over the misuse of business or family visit visas by individuals who enter the Kingdom and work illegally, a violation that “disrupts the labour market and breaches visa conditions.”

The Saudi foreign ministry stated that the new measures were implemented “to streamline travel procedures and enhance safety during Hajj.

It added, “Individuals found to be staying in the Kingdom illegally may face a five-year entry ban.”

The countries affected by the ban are India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, Yemen, and Morocco.

Despite the suspension, ARY News reported that Umrah visa holders will be allowed to enter the Kingdom until 13 April. The restrictions are expected to remain in place until mid-June when the pilgrimage concludes.

During the 2024 Hajj season, at least 1,301 pilgrims died—most from heat-related causes. A large proportion of the deceased did not hold official Hajj permits.

Saudi authorities reported that approximately 400,000 unregistered pilgrims participated in the Hajj last year, with a significant number coming from Egypt.

Each participating country is allocated a limited number of Hajj permits under a quota system distributed by lottery. However, due to the high cost of official packages, many people seek alternative, unauthorised routes.

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Headlines

SSG’s convoy escapes terrorists attack as Bandits unleash terror in Plateau

by Folarin Kehinde
written by Folarin Kehinde

The convoy of the Secretary to the Plateau State Government, Mr. Samuel Jatau, narrowly escaped an ambush by suspected terrorists on Sunday in Bokkos Local Government Area of the state.

The terrorists, believed to be planning fresh attacks on local communities, laid an ambush near Hurti community in the Monguna district.

The SSG was on a visit to Bokkos, which had been severely impacted by gunmen attacks the previous Wednesday.

As the convoy approached, the terrorists fired shots at the vehicle, prompting the security detail to return fire.

The attackers, overwhelmed by superior firepower, retreated into the nearby bush and surrounding mountains.

Our correspondent, who witnessed the incident, saw armed terrorists fleeing into the mountains after the skirmish.

Following the ambush, the SSG condemned the attack, describing it as an act of impunity and calling on the Federal Government to address the security concerns in the affected communities.

“I lack words to express my sorrow and anger. We just tested what these communities are feeling. We were almost ambushed. I was looking at my phone in the car when I suddenly heard gunshots. When I looked up, I saw two young men running into the bush, armed with guns,” the SSG said.

Describing the devastation in the area, Jatau continued, “We saw the destruction firsthand. Over 40 people were killed, homes were destroyed, and entire livelihoods were wiped out. The terrorists looted essential goods like 26 bags of potatoes worth N80,000 each from one home. These are peasant farmers; how do they recover from this? We must do better than this as a country.”

The SSG also highlighted the need for increased security in the region, which he said was a major concern for the state government.

“The Governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, has directed that we bring relief materials to the affected communities and look at long-term solutions. We also need more security forces to ensure the safety of our people. While we appreciate the efforts of our security agencies, there is still much more to be done.”

In his remarks, the Village Head of Hurti, Maren Arondong, and the District Head of Monguna, Alo Raymond, expressed gratitude to the state government for the relief materials but voiced concerns over the persistent attacks that had left many residents displaced.

They called on the Federal Government to step in and prevent further attacks on their communities.

Meanwhile, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, assured that the Federal Government was actively addressing the recent security breaches in Bokkos LGA.

Ribadu made the remarks on Sunday during an operational visit to Plateau State at the headquarters of Operation Safe Haven in Jos.

Ribadu explained that he was in Plateau following a directive from President Bola Tinubu to restore peace to the affected communities.

He commended the timely response of the security agencies in curbing the situation.

“We will ensure that all those arrested in connection with the recent attacks are brought to justice. The Federal Government is committed to improving security in the region, and we will not tolerate impunity,” Ribadu said.

He added that under President Tinubu’s administration, over 2,000 terrorists had been prosecuted or are facing prosecution.

Ribadu also urged Plateau residents to prioritise peace and unity, emphasising that disputes should be resolved through dialogue and not violence.

He praised the efforts of Governor Caleb Mutfwang in maintaining peace and promised that security measures would continue to improve in the state.

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