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Turning Ondo State into a Global Tourist Destination 

Posted on by admin50

 

By Ayo Oyoze Baje

 

 

Turning Ondo State into a Global Tourist Destination

 

Quote:

 

“We have a lot of tourist sites in the state that would help us create more jobs for our people, boost our economy and generate revenue.

 

-Gov. Lucky Aiyetadiwa ( Speaking at the 9th Annual General Meeting and Conference of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP ), July, 2025 )

 

 

That tourism remains an untapped gold mine across Nigeria’s socio-economic and cultural landscape is stating the obvious. But what might not be so known to millions of the citizens, including the policy makers are the pragmatic policies, programs and projects to serve as the right steps to take; to bridge the gap which currently exists between the immense natural potentials and the actualized revenues and inputs from the significant sector. Though the most visited destinations by international tourist arrivals in 2024 as revealed by Lewis Nunn, the Senior Travel Editor with Forbes Magazine include France with 100 million visitors, Spain with 94 million, the United States,72.4 million, Italy 69.5 million followed by Turkey with 52.6 million while the Travel industry pumped $11.1 trillion into global economy Nigeria did not rank amongst the top 10

most visited countries, even in Africa in 2024.

 

 

On the continent Morocco topped with 17.4 million tourists, followed by Egypt, 15.7 million; Tunisia, 10.25 million and South Africa, 8.92 million In fact, Nigeria ranked 12th with 1.2 million tourists mostly driven by diaspora visits, business, and cultural events.While the country recorded a total of 528,000 tourists in 2022, ranking 88th in the world that figure increased to 1.2 million international visitors, and three million domestic trips equating to 20% rise in 2023. That was according to the then Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Lola Ade-John. She disclosed this during the 20th edition of the AKWAABA African Travel and Tourism Market, held in Lagos.

 

 

Of significance is that Ade-John envisioning growth also emphasized that tourism contributed 3.65% ($17.3 billion) to Nigeria’s GDP in 2022, and the sector currently employs 1.91 million people annually, with the potential to grow even further. But one state that is poised to be a game-changer in Nigeria’s tourism spectrum is none other than the acclaimed Sunshine State, Ondo located in the South-West geo-political zone.

 

 

Given its scenic, diverse landscape with the tempting terrain from the rolling hills,verdant valleys across the fertile forests to the aquatic splendor of the Atlantic ocean boasting of the largest coastline in West Africa, Ondo state is considered a prime tourism investment destination. That is more so due to its wealth of natural and cultural resources, offering an enticing opportunity for tourism investors. Name them; from the

Araromi White Sand Beach to the Idanre Hills Tourist Centre and the Ebomi Lake Tourist Centre,Obdo state has all these and more. Places such as Igbo Olodumare.

Smokin Hill Golf Resort and

Oke Maria (Christian Pilgrimage center) are spell-binding places as memorable treats for visitors from across the globe. In fact, Idanre is an ideal site for high altitude sport, training, gaming, adventure, relaxation, picnicking, leadership training and holidaying. Idanre and Oak Hills. But how do we harness them for the state’s sustainable economic growth? That is the million-naira, sorry, dollar question.

 

 

Well aware of these huge potentials, the state governor, Lucky Aiyetadiwa has pledged that his administration was ready to maximize the tourism potentials for economic growth of the Ondo. He gave the assurance at the 9th annual general meeting and conference of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), held at the International Culture and Events Centre (The Dome) in Akure, in July,2025. He acknowledged the immense contribution of tourism to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of any nation. Represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, the governor said his administration was deeply focusing on preserving the existing tourist sites in Ondo state in order to attract local and foreign tourists.

 

 

In specific term, he stated that: “Sites like the Idanre Hills, Araromi Beach, Igbo Olodumare and Ebomi Lake, among others, would soon receive attention. We will maximize our tourism potential for economic growth.”

 

 

And walking the talk on the promises made, Governor Aiyetadiwa has gone ahead to award contract based on Public Private Partnership ( PPP ) for massive construction of recreation centres as well as hotels, chalets to accommodate visitors to Idanre Hills from across the globe. It is a similar one for the Araromi Obuh at the Atlantic Bar Beach as a world tourist site. Located close to the state”s modular oil refinery with a capacity of 500,000 barrels per day, it will no doubt attract tourists. Of interest too is the springing up of several top-class hotels in places such as Akure,Ondo,Okitipupa, Ikare and Ore, that connects the South West to the South East. All these, as confirmed by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku will assist to open up the cities to harness their potentials as cultural destinations.

 

 

Speaking on how Ondo state could leverage on the available tourism potentials, an indigene who happens to be the Convener, Destination Nigeria Governors’ Tourism Conference ( DNGRC ), Ambassador Ayo Omotoso insists that the state has a beautiful place in the global tourism map, that is, if properly harnessed. That is more so in the development and showcasing areas of tourist destinations, cultural spectacles and agritourism.

 

 

Describing tourism as universal and a tool to create wealth; which contributes to the nation”s GDP he believes that Ondo state in particular and Nigeria at large have what it takes to be reckoned with as places such as Malaysia, Jordan, Scandinavian countries, South Africa, Jerusalem, Mecca, and Dubai, all of which earn huge incomes from tourism.

 

 

According to him, the tourism template of Ondo State is worth 29 billion dollars and can generate employment for one million youths. The major tourism signature among them is Idanre Hills, which is 3,000 ft. above sea level and is listed on a UNESCO heritage site. He wants it to be properly marketed around the scenic beauty of the hilly town of Idanre, celebrating nature’s gift and providing a viable destination for tourists.

 

 

Similarly, Oke Maria is a religious destination waiting for branding and other tourism embellishments

similar to how Israel sells major religious tourist centres, including Jerusalem to the rest of the world.

 

 

On the cultural attractions of Ondo state there are colorful ones like the Igogo festival which is already on the world’s tourism map as well as the Eginmogun Festival.

 

 

Notably, the eco-tourism potential ranges from mineral resources to the beach coastline. The coastal area development too will generate funds similar to what happens in Florida, in the United States flourishes through tourism.

 

 

On agritourism the idea of Ile-Oluji Cocoa Powder, a tea with a good natural taste is a welcome development. With it the people can mix it with a tourism as it is done in Kenya and many East African countries. .Farmers and ranchers use this interest to develop traffic at their farms or ranch and interest in the quality of their products.

 

 

Tourism, as Omotoso views it is New Opinion Essay for the Week

 

By

 

Ayo Oyoze Baje

 

 

Turning Ondo State into a Global Tourist Destination

 

Quote:

 

“We have a lot of tourist sites in the state that would help us create more jobs for our people, boost our economy and generate revenue.

 

-Gov. Lucky Aiyetadiwa ( Speaking at the 9th Annual General Meeting and Conference of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP ), July, 2025 )

 

 

That tourism remains an untapped gold mine across Nigeria’s socio-economic and cultural landscape is stating the obvious. But what might not be so known to millions of the citizens, including the policy makers are the pragmatic policies, programs and projects to serve as the right steps to take; to bridge the gap which currently exists between the immense natural potentials and the actualized revenues and inputs from the significant sector. Though the most visited destinations by international tourist arrivals in 2024 as revealed by Lewis Nunn, the Senior Travel Editor with Forbes Magazine include France with 100 million visitors, Spain with 94 million, the United States,72.4 million, Italy 69.5 million followed by Turkey with 52.6 million while the Travel industry pumped $11.1 trillion into global economy Nigeria did not rank amongst the top 10

most visited countries in Africa in 2024.

 

 

On the continent Morocco topped with 17.4 million tourists, followed by Egypt, 15.7 million; Tunisia, 10.25 million and South Africa, 8.92 million In fact, Nigeria ranked 12th with 1.2 million tourists mostly driven by diaspora visits, business, and cultural events.

 

 

While the country recorded a total of 528,000 tourists in 2022, ranking 88th in the world that figure increased to 1.2 million international visitors, and three million domestic trips equating to 20% rise in 2023. That was according to the then Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Lola Ade-John. She disclosed this during the 20th edition of the AKWAABA African Travel and Tourism Market, held in Lagos. But one state that is poised to be a game-changer in Nigeria’s tourism spectrum is none other than the acclaimed Sunshine State, Ondo located in the South-West geo-political zone.

 

 

Given its scenic, diverse landscape with the tempting terrain from the rolling hills,verdant valleys across the fertile forests to the aquatic splendor of the Atlantic ocean boasting of the longest coastline in West Africa, Ondo state is considered a prime tourism investment destination. That is more so due to its wealth of natural and cultural resources, offering an enticing opportunity for tourism investors. Name them; from the

Araromi White Sand Beach to the Idanre Hills Tourist Centre and the Ebomi Lake Tourist Centre,Obdo state has all these and more. Places such as Igbo Olodumare.

Smokin Hill Golf Resort and

Oke Maria (Christian Pilgrimage center) are spell-bing places as memorable treats for visitors from across the globe. In fact, Idanre is an ideal site for high altitude sport, training, gaming, adventure, relaxation, picnicking, leadership training and holidaying.. But how do we harness them for the state’s sustainable economic growth? That is the million-naira, sorry, dollar question.

 

 

Well aware of these huge potentials, the state governor, Lucky Aiyetadiwa has pledged that his administration was ready to maximize the tourism potentials for economic growth of the Ondo. He gave the assurance at the 9th annual general meeting and conference of the Nigeria Association of Tour Operators (NATOP), held at the International Culture and Events Centre (The Dome) in Akure, in July,2025. He acknowledged the immense contribution of tourism to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of any nation. Represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, the governor said his administration was deeply focusing on preserving the existing tourist sites in Ondo state in order to attract local and foreign tourists.

 

 

In specific term, he stated that: “Sites like the Idanre Hills, Araromi Beach, Igbo Olodumare and Ebomi Lake, among others, would soon receive attention. We will maximize our tourism potential for economic growth.”

 

 

And walking the talk on the promises made, Governor Aiyetadiwa has gone ahead to award contract based on Public Private Partnership ( PPP ) for massive construction of recreation centres as well as hotels, chalets to accommodate visitors to Idanre Hills from across the globe. It is a similar one for the Araromi Obuh at the Atlantic Bar Beach as a world tourist site. Located close to the state”s modular oil refinery with a capacity of 500,000 barrels per day, it will no doubt attract tourists. Of interest too is the springing up of several top-class hotels in places such as Akure,Ondo,Okitipupa, Ikare and Ore, that connects the South West to the South East. All these, as confirmed by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku will assist to open up the cities to harness their potentials as cultural destinations.

 

 

Speaking on how Ondo state could leverage on the available tourism potentials, an indigene who happens to be the Convener, Destination Nigeria Governors’ Tourism Conference ( DNGRC ), Ambassador Ayo Omotoso insists that the state has a beautiful place in the global tourism map, that is, if properly harnessed. That is more so in the development and showcasing areas of tourist destinations, cultural spectacles and agritourism.

 

 

Describing tourism as universal and a tool to create wealth; which contributes to the nation”s GDP he believes that Ondo state in particular and Nigeria at large have what it takes to be reckoned with as places such as Malaysia, Jordan, Scandinavian countries, South Africa, Jerusalem, Mecca, and Dubai, all of which earn huge incomes from tourism.

 

 

According to him, the tourism template of Ondo State is worth 29 billion dollars and can generate employment for one million youths. The major tourism signature among them is Idanre Hills, which is 3,000 ft. above sea level and is listed on a UNESCO heritage site. He wants it to be properly marketed around the scenic beauty of the hilly town of Idanre, celebrating nature’s gift and providing a viable destination for tourists.

Similarly, Oke Maria is a religious destination waiting for branding and other tourism embellishments

similar to how Israel sells major religious tourist centres, including Jerusalem to the rest of the world.

 

 

On the cultural attractions of Ondo state there are colorful ones like the Igogo festival which is already on the world’s tourism map as well as the Eginmogun Festival.

 

 

Notably, the eco-tourism potential ranges from mineral resources to the beach coastline. The coastal area development too will generate funds similar to what happens in Florida, in the United States flourishes through tourism.

 

 

On agritourism the idea of Ile-Oluji Cocoa Powder, a tea with a good natural taste is a welcome development. With it the people can mix it with a tourism as it is done in Kenya and many East African countries. .Farmers and ranchers use this interest to develop traffic at their farms or ranch and interest in the quality of their products.

 

 

Tourism, as Omotoso views it is like a flame that once you light it, it brings development to the whole geographical space. Good enough, Gov. Aiyetadiwa is lightening up the space by the partnership the state has with the World Bank, Federal Ministry of Agriculture, and Food Security, to train and empower over 34,000 livestock farmers of the state on livestock productivity. It also has one with the Czech Republic for a strategic diplomatic engagement aimed at enhancing economic growth, technological transfer, and international cooperation, involving global investors and entrepreneurs, aimed at unlocking the state’s vast economic potentials.

 

 

With massive infrastructural development opening up the tourist destinations down to the rural areas and peace guaranteed the dream of turning Ondo state into a global destination has started to see the light of the day. flame; the moment you light it, it brings development to the whole geographical space. Good enough, Gov. Aiyetadiwa is lightening up the space by the partnership the state has with the World Bank, Federal Ministry of Agriculture, and Food Security, to train and empower over 34,000 livestock farmers of the state on livestock productivity. And of course, that with the Czech Republic for a strategic diplomatic engagement aimed at enhancing economic growth, technological transfer, and international cooperation, involving global investors and entrepreneurs, aimed at unlocking the state’s vast economic potentials.

 

 

With massive infrastructural development opening up the tourist destinations, down to the rural areas and peace guaranteed the dream of turning Ondo state into a global destination has started to see the light of the day.

STATEMENT BY HIS EXCELLENCY, BOLA AHMED TINUBU, PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA, ON THE CESSATION OF THE STATE OF EMERGENCY IN RIVERS STATE

Posted on by admin50

 

By Ebinum Samuel

 

 

My Fellow countrymen and, in particular, the good people of Rivers State.

 

I am happy to address you today on the state of emergency declaration in Rivers State. You will recall that on 18th March, 2025, I proclaimed a state of emergency in the state. In my proclamation address, I highlighted the reasons for the declaration. The summary of it for context is that there was a total paralysis of governance in Rivers State, which had led to the Governor of Rivers State and the House of Assembly being unable to work together. Critical economic assets of the State, including oil pipelines, were being vandalised. The State House of Assembly was crisis-ridden, such that members of the House were divided into two groups. Four members worked with the Governor, while 27 members opposed the Governor. The latter group supported the Speaker. As a result, the Governor could not present any Appropriation Bill to the House, to enable him to access funds to run Rivers State’s affairs. That serious constitutional impasse brought governance in the State to a standstill. Even the Supreme Court, in one of its judgments in a series of cases filed by the Executive and the Legislative arms of Rivers State against each other, held that there was no government in Rivers State. My intervention and that of other well-meaning Nigerians to resolve the conflict proved abortive as both sides stuck rigidly to their positions to the detriment of peace and development of the State.

 

It therefore became painfully inevitable that to arrest the drift towards anarchy in Rivers State, I was obligated to invoke the powers conferred on me by Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, to proclaim the state of emergency. The Offices of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and elected members of the State House of Assembly were suspended for six months in the first instance. The six months expire today, September 17th, 2025.

 

I thank the National Assembly, which, after critically evaluating the justification for the proclamation, took steps immediately, as required by the Constitution, to approve the declaration in the interest of peace and order in Rivers State. I also thank our traditional rulers and the good people of Rivers State for their support from the date of the declaration of the state of emergency until now.

 

I am not unaware that there were a few voices of dissent against the proclamation, which led to their instituting over 40 cases in the courts in Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Yenagoa, to invalidate the declaration. That is the way it should be in a democratic setting. Some cases are still pending in the courts as of today. But what needs to be said is that the power to declare a state of emergency is an inbuilt constitutional tool to address situations of actual or threatened breakdown of public order and public safety, which require extraordinary measures to return the State to peace, order and security. Considered objectively, we had reached that situation of total breakdown of public order and public safety in Rivers State, as shown in the judgment of the Supreme Court on the disputes between the Executive and the Legislative arm of Rivers State. It would have been a colossal failure on my part as President not to have made that proclamation.

 

As a stakeholder in democratic governance, I believe that the need for a harmonious existence and relationship between the executive and the legislature is key to a successful government, whether at the state or national level. The people who voted us into power expect to reap the fruits of democracy. However, that expectation will remain unrealizable in an atmosphere of violence, anarchy, and insecurity borne by misguided political activism and Machiavellian manipulations among the stakeholders.

 

I am happy today that, from the intelligence available to me, there is a groundswell of a new spirit of understanding, a robust readiness, and potent enthusiasm on the part of all the stakeholders in Rivers State for an immediate return to democratic governance. This is undoubtedly a welcome development for me and a remarkable achievement for us. I therefore do not see why the state of emergency should exist a day longer than the six months I had pronounced at the beginning of it.

 

It therefore gives me great pleasure to declare that the emergency in Rivers State of Nigeria shall end with effect from midnight today. The Governor, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara, the deputy governor, Her Excellency Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly and the speaker, Martins Amaewhule, will resume work in their offices from 18 September 2025.

 

I take this opportunity to remind the Governors and the Houses of Assembly of all the States of our country to continue to appreciate that it is only in an atmosphere of peace, order, and good government that we can deliver the dividends of democracy to our people. I implore all of you to let this realisation drive your actions at all times.

 

I thank you all.

 

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Saudi authorities free 3 Nigerian pilgrims arrested for alleged drug trafficking

Posted on by admin50

 

By Ebinum Samuel

 

Marwa commends Saudi counterpart, attributes success of NDLEA interventions to President Tinubu’s commitment, HAGF, Foreign Affairs, Aviation Ministers, NSA’s support

Saudi Arabia authorities have released three Nigerian pilgrims who were detained in Jeddah, since last month following their arrest over alleged drug trafficking
The three Nigerians who were freed from detention after four weeks in custody include: Mrs. Maryam Hussain Abdullahi; Mrs. Abdullahi Bahijja Aminu; and Mr. Abdulhamid Saddieq. Their freedom came following weeks of relentless engagements by the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) with the leadership of the General Directorate of Narcotics Control (GDNC) in Saudi Arabia with the full support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the assistance of the Hon Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; the Hon. Minister of Foreign Affairs Amb. Yusuf Tuggar and the Hon. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo SAN, as well as the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
A syndicate operating at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) Kano had tagged bags containing illicit drugs with the names of the three unsuspecting Nigerians who travelled on an Ethiopian Airline flight ET940 which departed Kano on 6th August 2025 to Jeddah on lesser hajj. They were later arrested in Saudi for alleged drug trafficking.
Following complaints to the NDLEA boss by families of the three victims over the detention of their family members in Saudi Arabia after the completion of their lesser hajj on an allegation of trafficking in illicit substances, an investigation was launched to unravel what happened. The probe led to the arrest of 55-year-old drug kingpin Mohammed Ali Abubakar alias Bello Karama and three other members of the syndicate including the airline officials behind the shipment of the illicit substances for which the three innocent pilgrims were arrested and detained in Jeddah. Charges had since been filed against Mohammed Ali Abubakar and other members of the syndicate: Celestina Emmanuel Yayock; Abdulbasit Adamu Sagagi and Jazuli Kabir.

 

Armed with the outcome of NDLEA investigation and charges filed against members of the syndicate as well as other evidences to prove the innocence of the three Nigerian pilgrims, Marwa engaged with his Saudi counterpart at multiple levels and different locations including Saudi Arabia in compliance with President Tinubu’s agenda that no Nigerian suffers unjustly in a foreign land.
Following the series of engagements one of the three Nigerians was released from custody on Sunday 14th September and the remaining two on Monday 15th September 2025.
Expressing happiness over the development, Marwa commended his counterpart at the Saudi GDNC for upholding the essence of the Memorandum of Understanding between NDLEA and GDNC on collaboration and partnership. “The biggest support of our effort on this case came from President Tinubu who is committed to ensuring that every Nigerian gets their deserved respect and fair treatment wherever they are across the world. And that is what has come to play in this case, that no Nigerian is unjustly punished for crimes they know nothing about anywhere in the world. We equally appreciate the assistance provided by the Hon. Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN; the Hon. Minister of Foreign Affairs Amb. Yusuf Tuggar and the Hon. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo SAN, as well as the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who were with us all the way on the matter.”

Why Ajaokuta steel company will never work – Dangote

Posted on by admin50
  Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has cast doubt on the future of the troubled Ajaokuta Steel Company, saying he does not believe the facility will ever function as intended. In a video shared on the TVC X handle on Tuesday, the president and CEO of the Dangote Group stressed the importance of a vibrant steel sector for Nigeria’s industrial growth and economic development. However, he argued that Ajaokuta’s long-standing challenges have left it beyond revival. Dangote compared efforts to resuscitate the steel plant to attempting to run outdated technology in a world dominated by modern advancements, insisting that the project has been overtaken by time and innovation. “There is no nation that you can build without a steel industry and honestly within us here, Ajaokuta will not work. We can keep deceiving ourselves and keep being passionate about it, but it’s not possible. “It like you now, if you remember those vehicles we used to produce from Volkswagen (Igala) if you bring Igala now, would you now compare it to the current Kia. No, things have changed,” Mr Dangote said. He emphasised the need for adaptation in a rapidly evolving world. “Things have changed and all of us have to keep changing or you will become archaic. You have to change, now, when you carry something like Ajaokuta is like you going to the grave yard to bring a dead person or you go to the hospital to bring somebody who is on the dying bed to come and run 100 metres. It’s totally impossible,” he added. Ajaokuta Steel’s chequered history The steel company, located in Ajaokuta, Kogi State, was built between 1979 and the mid-1990s. It was not completed and has never operated optimally. It has been moribund for over two decades despite the efforts of different governments. In September 2022, the Nigerian government agreed to pay $496 million to settle an Indian firm’s claim over the facility. The dispute followed the federal government’s revocation in 2008 of an agreement that handed control of the steelworks and the National Iron Ore Mining Company to the Indian firm. In cancelling the deal, the Umar Yar’adua administration said the terms of the concession at the time were not favourable to the country. In December 2022, the government said 11 companies had indicated interest in taking over the steel company on a concession basis. Three of the 11 bidders were Russian companies, the then Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Olamilekan Adegbite, said while listing his ministry’s achievements. Upon assuming office in August 2023, the Minister of Steel Development, Shuaibu Audu, promised to revive the steel company. At the time, he added that he would set a roadmap for the development of the steel sector, aggressively pursue the completion of Ajaokuta Steel company, and enact the required bills to regulate the sector. In September last year, the Nigerian government signed an agreement with a Russian Consortium Company for the rehabilitation, completion and operation of the Ajaokuta Steel Plant and National Iron Ore Mining Company in Kogi State.

2 killed, victims rescued as police foil kidnap attempt in Abuja

Posted on by admin50

 

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has announced that its operatives successfully thwarted a kidnapping attempt in Kobi Village, a suburb of Abuja, on Monday.

According to the command, the swift response of its officers prevented the criminals from executing their plan, ensuring the safety of residents in the community.

Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the Command, SP Josephine Adeh, in a press statement, late on Tuesday night, said: “On September 15, 2025, at about 9:15 p.m., the FCT Police Command received a distress call reporting gunshots along Kobi Village Road in Kpaduma III. “Acting swiftly, the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, CP Ajao S. Adewale, psc, mnips, personally led a response team comprising the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of the Rapid Response Squad, and the Divisional Police Officer, Asokoro Division, to the scene.

“On sighting the police team, the assailants opened fire, using two female victims as human shields to escape. The Police team however, continued to engage them in a fierce chase, successfully rescuing the two female victims unhurt.

“Regrettably, two local security from the community vigilante sustained gunshot injuries. They were immediately evacuated to the National Hospital, where one was confirmed dead by a medical doctor, while the other remains under medical care and is responding to treatment.”

She said the CP has commended the bravery of the officers involved, while extending heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased vigilante.

“He further urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report strange faces or suspicious activities within their environment for a swift police response through the Command’s emergency lines: 08032003913, 07057337653, 08061581938,” the spokesperson added.

Dangote Refinery Ends 50 Years of Fuel Queues in Nigeria

Posted on by admin50

 

… we’re creating jobs, not displacing anyone
… industrialisation, not importation will grow Africa’s economy

President/Chief Executive, Dangote Petroleum Refinery, Aliko Dangote, has declared that since the refinery began producing petrol a year ago, Nigeria’s five-decade-long struggle with fuel queues has finally come to an end.

Speaking at a conference to mark the first anniversary of the launch of petrol from the 650,000 barrels-per-day refinery, Dangote highlighted that Nigerians have endured persistent fuel queues since 1975.

However, this issue has been steadily resolved since the refinery commenced production on 3rd September 2024.

“We have been battling fuel queues since 1975, but today Nigerians are witnessing a new era,” he said.

Acknowledging the numerous challenges the refinery has faced since its inception, Dangote emphasised the company’s unwavering commitment to Nigeria and Africa.

“The journey has been challenging because we sought to transform the downstream sector in Nigeria. Some believed we were taking food from their tables, which simply isn’t true.

What we have done is to make our country and continent proud. Previously, only two African countries were not importing petrol, but regrettably, they have since resumed imports. This is detrimental to Africa,” he added.

Reflecting on the challenges faced during the refinery’s development, Dangote disclosed that the project involved enormous risk.

He received repeated warnings from industry experts, investors, local and foreign government officials, who argued that only sovereign nations undertook such large-scale refinery ventures. He admitted that had the project failed, he would have lost all his assets to lenders.

“The decision to build the refinery was not easy. If it had gone wrong, lenders would have taken our assets. But we believed in Nigeria and Africa,” he said.

Despite opposition and economic headwinds, the refinery has successfully reduced the price of petrol from nearly N1,100 before production began to N841 in the Southwest, Abuja, Delta, Rivers, Edo, and Kwara. With the gradual rollout of CNG-powered trucks, Dangote anticipates this price reduction will soon be felt nationwide.

He noted that the refinery has sufficient capacity to meet Nigeria’s domestic demand while also generating foreign exchange through exports.

He revealed that between June and first week of September 2025, the facility had exported over 1.1 billion litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), underscoring its capacity to meet domestic demand and contribute significantly to foreign exchange earnings.

Emphasising job creation, he stated that the refinery has no intention of displacing workers but is instead generating thousands of new employment opportunities. The deployment of 4,000 CNG-powered trucks is expected to create at least 24,000 jobs across Nigeria.

“We have not displaced any jobs; we are creating many more.

The CNG trucks will not be operated by robots,” he said. “Our employees earn salaries three times the minimum wage. Our drivers receive a living wage, life insurance, health insurance covering themselves, their spouses, and up to four children, as well as a lifelong pension.

We are not only employing drivers but also mechanics, fleet managers, and other professionals to support the CNG fleet.”

Dangote clarified that while the company respects trade unions, membership is a personal choice for each driver.

He reaffirmed his commitment to Nigeria’s industrialisation, describing it as essential for the continent’s development. Dangote emphasised the urgent need for Nigeria to protect its local industries and discourage the dumping of cheap foreign goods, citing the collapse of the once-thriving textile sector as a cautionary example.

He noted that Nigeria’s path to sustainable economic growth lies in industrialisation, which not only boosts local productivity but also supports a circular economy.

“Other nations were not industrialised by outsiders. We must build and industrialise our own economies.

Without this, how can others invest? That is why I believe the National Assembly should enact legislation to support the Federal Government’s ‘Nigeria First’ policy.

My goal is to see Africa prosper, as we have the fastest-growing population in the world. Relying on imports means exporting jobs and importing poverty.

Many individuals with greater financial resources than myself want to invest, but the challenges we face discourage them. Numerous sectors are still in urgent need of industrialisation,” he said.

He reiterated that with the introduction of CNG trucks, the refinery can deliver products to consumers anywhere in Nigeria, mitigating all associated risks.

Dangote reiterated that the refinery remains open to partnerships and collaborations with other stakeholders in the downstream sector, stressing that the industry stands to gain more through collective effort and cooperation.

He also clarified that the refinery has no plans to enter the retail market, noting that he declined opportunities to acquire filling stations when they were offered for sale.

Dangote Trucks

Looking ahead, Dangote announced that the refinery’s capacity would be expanded to 700,000 barrels per day in its second year of operation, with the aim of further supporting economic growth and job creation.

“Nigeria has now become the refining hub of Africa. We are set to become the largest exporter of polypropylene and are aiming to make Nigeria the world’s leading producer of fertiliser.

These initiatives will generate substantial foreign exchange, create employment, and stimulate growth in other sectors,” he said.

“We are fully committed to supporting the government in adding value, creating jobs, and building a stronger economy.”

He also expressed his gratitude to the Federal Government, the refinery’s partners, dedicated workforce, and the Nigerian public for their continued support.

In particular, he commended the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) for encouraging its members to register for the free distribution initiative utilising CNG-powered trucks.

Dangote also used the occasion to showcase some of the CNG-powered trucks currently loading petrol from the refinery, emphasising that the company will successfully deploy all 4,000 trucks across the country soon.

Dangote Trucks

He allayed any fears of potential attacks on the drivers or the trucks, stressing that Nigeria is a country governed by the rule of law and that security agencies are fully empowered to protect its citizens and infrastructure.

President, Dangote Petroleum Refinery, Aliko Dangote, has declared that since the refinery began producing petrol a year ago, Nigeria’s five-decade-long struggle with fuel queues has finally come to an end.

PRESIDENCY COUNTERS ATIKU ON ECONOMIC REFORMS, SAYS ATIKU OUT OF TOUCH OF CURRENT DEVELOPMENT

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The presidency yesterday, insisted that Nigeria is moving in the right direction under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

This assertion came on the heels of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s claim that the country is being ravaged by hunger and that President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms were not working.

In a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the Presidency maintained that the current administration is proud of the progress made so far noting that many of the challenges they are working to resolve were created during the years of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), when Atiku served as Vice President.

“RESPONSE TO A STATEMENT ISSUED BY FORMER VICE PRESIDENT ATIKU ABUBAKAR ON SEPTEMBER 15

Talk is cheap. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and his handlers are clearly out of touch with the positive developments currently unfolding in our country.

Their claim that hunger is ravaging Nigeria, and their comparison of our situation to the unrest in France before the 1789 Revolution or the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution in Russia, is grossly misleading.

Their latest statement demonstrates a disconnect from the authentic Nigerian reality, as recent data tells a different story. Just today, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) released its figures for August, showing that headline inflation has declined for the fifth consecutive month. Over the weekend, the NBS also reported a record trade surplus, with the contribution of non-oil exports to our trade balance now nearly matching that of crude oil at a ratio of 48:52 per cent.

Our foreign exchange reserves are on the rise, now approaching $42 billion. When President Tinubu assumed office, reserves stood at $32 billion, much of it encumbered. This administration has since cleared over $7 billion in arrears, including $800 million owed to airlines.

Under President Tinubu, Nigeria is recording unprecedented revenues. States are now able to pay salaries and gratuities promptly and still have surplus funds for capital and social projects—an achievement not previously witnessed at this scale.

Nigeria is moving in the right direction. In contrast, Atiku and his party remain stuck in the past, fixated on doomsday scenarios and revolutionary rhetoric. Ironically, many of the challenges we face today stem from the economic mismanagement during the PDP years, when Atiku was Vice President. President Tinubu and his team are working relentlessly to correct those errors, with bold reforms.

After just two years and five months in office, we are proud of the progress being made under President Tinubu’s leadership. Atiku and his allies may choose to ignore these gains, but Nigerians can see and feel the positive changes taking place across the nation.

Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy

September 15, 2025″

PSC Chair X-rays The Future of Policing And Security In Nigeria

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By Ebinum Samuel   The Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd, mni, has said that a Police Officer in all circumstance must have a thorough understanding and knowledge of the law, and of Police orders and instructions and must develop the attributes of efficiency, courtesy, tact, integrity and impartiality. DIG Argungu in a key note address presented to the participants of an ongoing high-level workshop which began in Abuja yesterday, September 15th 2025 and organised for security personnel by the United Nations Development Programme, UNDP, Development Partners and Governments of Bornu, Adamawa and Yobe States also noted that current threats to the future of Policing and security in Nigeria are no longer primarily coming from the conventional (traditional) factors of the usual narrative – unemployment, poverty, out-of-school children, etc. The Commission’s spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani said that Argungu spoke on “Ethics, Mental Health and the Future of Policing and security in Nigeria” with theme “Command Leadership for Ethical and Trauma-Informed Security Response” where he noted that it is important for Police Officers to study ethics and professional code of ethics since according to him they are the bedrock of Policing code of conduct. DIG Argungu said ethics training will help Police departments/institutions recognise their full potential since Officers use a lot of discretion in the conduct of their duties which include the enforcement of the law at appropriate time or place. The PSC Chairman also spoke on the implications of medical health requirements for enlistment into the Nigeria Police Force adding that medical health examination will help evaluate “if the candidate is medically fit to meet the physical requirements of the job”. He said deformities and abnormalities test must be carried out as part of the medical health requirements, adding that a candidate for admission must be free of impediment in speech, gross malfunction of teeth or jaw preventing proper mastication of food, knock knees, bent knees, bant knees, flat feet, bent arms. Others include; deformed hands, defective eye sight or squint eyes, amputation of any kind etc. DIG Argungu explained that Police stress stems from operational factors like trauma exposure and dangerous incidents, organizational issues such as poor management, shift work and lack of peer support and external societal pressures “which can lead to issues like burn out, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder PTSD)”.He noted the categories of stressors which he said includes operational stressors which is inherent in the nature of police work including exposure to violence, traumatic events and the potential to danger; Organisational stressors that comes with issues of insufficient staffing, poor leadership, excessive overtime, lack of proper equipment and strict or poorly enforced policies. Others include Personal/External stressors such as factors like financial difficulties, social and family pressures, societal influences as well as internal factors related to individual Officers’ emotional well being. DIG Argungu said the consequences of Police stress is that it can lead to various mental and physical health problems including; mental health disorder, burn out, substance misuse and suicide. On the future of Policing and security in Nigeria, the PSC Chairman said the key challenges and threats that the country is facing now are”social media as well as digital channel which can also be used for malicious content and propaganda and “hooligans, employed by undesirable elements to recruit and mobilise followers ” The PSC Chairman noted that at this era of 21st Century, “all security Officers will have to have training in the recognition of offences committed by computer and how electronically based technology affects businesses and everyday life.

NUPENG Denies Allegation of Collections At Depots

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By Ebinum Samuel 

 

 

Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, yesterday, described allegation of collections at the depots as a blackmail calculated to tarnish the good image of the union and bias public opinion against them.

The union, which is smarting from disagreement with Dangote Refineries over unionization stated unequivocally that there are lots of blackmail going on on social media against them as well as distortions of facts and misinformation.

They stated: “They are pained by our victory over Unionization battles against them, and they are out for revenge by attacking our reputation and activities .

“Please don’t be depressed by all these negative things they are writing because social media is full of ignorant people who have access to phones and data to post anything the most recent include the lies that we are aiding smuggling, collecting N1.00 on every litre of products brought into Nigeria and that we are part of the cabal that destroyed and make all government refineries not to work.

“Some are just throwing figures all over about the collections at the various depots. You should know that the employees in the downstream sector are purely in the informal sector, they don’t have structured jobs/ employment. These employees include Tanker Drivers, Depot workers, Employees of Marketers stationed at various depots. “There are also associations at the various depots as well, these include, Truck Owners association, the Independent Marketers Association, Major Marketers Association, all these are the Trade Unions that are collecting dues from their members in the value chain but they are not seen but only PTD- NUPENG members are seen and heard. Why?

“Nigerians do not share empathy with any other person and because they feel highly inconvenient by the power and impact of our strike, notwithstanding the reasons for the industrial action, they want us out of the way at all costs. ASUU, NASU, NMA,etc can go to strike for years, Nigerians don’t care as long as it doesn’t affect their businesses, movements and income.

“Employers too hate to deal with us and everything must be thrown at us. There are many Trade Unions/ Associations at the Petroleum depots and each one of them has their roles and responsibilities to be there and they depend on our representatives at the depots to assist them to collect their dues from members who usually never wiling to pay.

“We actually command lots of influence and respect which infuriates many others. It should also be noted that PTD- NUPENG is a trade Union and the members are employees of the owners of trucks. “They pay union dues to NUPENG . The dues and levies being paid are being used for:

Trainings on safety on the wheels, which are done quarterly in every Zone with FRSC, Police, Fire service men, State VIO, and other Traffic Enforcement agencies in each zone,all these cost fortune

“No employer provides health insurance for tanker drivers and they travel for hours with inflammable materials and we believe a sick truck driver is an accident in- waiting, so we set up Health Insurance with LEADWAY Health Insurance for each of those Petroleum Truck Driver on the wheels

” Further more, we have dedicated funds for Security on the highways because we have to always mobilize these security agencies on the highways against truck hijackers, kidnappers and community areas criminals, nobody does that for free.

d- Union dues itself .

“The Association of Truck owners also collect fees from their members who are Owners of the trucks whenever they load at the depots. Marketers, which is IPMAN for Independent Marketers also have their employees belonging to NUPENG. These employees pay dues to the Union, and the members of IPMAN also pay dues to their association.

“Major Marketers Association has employees who are members of NUPENG and they also have members of the association. All these are collected at a single point at the depots on behalf of every stakeholder by PTD- NUPENG and the money is paid by truck owners and the Marketers.

In this struggle, major marketers, Independent Marketers and Truck Owners, are interested parties as well waiting to be liberated from the imminent takeover by DANGOTE. They cannot do anything about it but are excited that NUPENG is taking up the fight.

“The issue of collections at the depots is a blackmail being thrown at us, and there is no way we can defend them against an already biased public opinion.” They stated.

Anambra Police Arrest 54 Suspects, Recover Large Quantity of Hard Drugs in Anti-Cultism, Drug Raids

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The Anambra State Police Command has stepped up its campaign against cultism, drug abuse, and other criminal activities, arresting 54 suspects and recovering a large cache of hard drugs in recent operations across the state.

The arrests, which involved 39 males and 15 females, were made in separate raids carried out by operatives of the command between September 12 and 14, 2025.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the command is deeply concerned about the growing moral decline among youths, particularly those aged between 18 and 26 years.

Ikenga recalled recent incidents of fake kidnappings orchestrated by young people to extort their parents, describing the trend as alarming.

In one case, a young lady and her boyfriend staged her abduction and collected ₦3 million ransom from her parents, after initially demanding ₦10 million. In another incident, a couple collected ₦1 million in a similar self-orchestrated kidnap scheme.

The command also condemned a recent cult-related shooting at a burial ceremony in Ezi-Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area, which left four people dead and 15 others seriously injured.

“These disturbing developments highlight the growing menace of cultism, drug abuse, and moral decay in our society,” Ikenga stated. He added that poor parental supervision was partly to blame.

To address the situation, the command has intensified surveillance, patrols, and intelligence-led operations aimed at disrupting criminal networks.

On September 12, operatives of the Special Anti-Cult Squad (SPACS), Enugwu-Ukwu, arrested a 25-year-old suspect, Chiderah Obochi, at Ifitedunu along the Old Onitsha-Awka Road. He was found in possession of dried leaves suspected to be cannabis.

Upon interrogation, Obochi confessed to being a drug courier in Umudioka Village, Dunukofia LGA, and led police to the residence of another suspect, Ginika Okeke. Although Okeke was not at home, operatives recovered 11 bags of cannabis from the premises.

The seized substances will be handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and action.

In a separate operation on September 14, police raided a suspected cultist hideout at Ogidi, Idemili North LGA, arresting 53 persons comprising 38 males and 15 females.

The suspects are currently undergoing screening and profiling, with those found culpable to be prosecuted in court.

On behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, the command reassured residents of its commitment to safeguarding lives and property while ensuring Anambra remains safe for all law-abiding citizens.