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The Niger Delta Stakeholders Forum (NDSF) yesterday rose from an emergency meeting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State and appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to heed their counsel and decentralise the pipeline contracts across different states and influences that make up the region.

They, however, sounded a note of warning that they were on their final efforts to save the economy of the country from agitations over exclusion of stakeholders from the pipeline contracts as the present situation was threatening to erupt in protests and into violent actions.

The stakeholders, in a statement signed by Dr Tari Theophilus, condemned what they referred to as actions of the Presidential Amnesty Programme Coordinator, Dr Denis Burutu Otuaro, which they regretted threatens regional peace, national economic interests, and urgent reforms in pipeline / oil and gas infrastructure surveillance.

They regretted that their advocating for full decentralisation of surveillance contracts across the Niger Delta was misrepresented by Dr. Otuaro and his affiliates as an ‘assault’ on Tantita Security.

‘The Forum stresses, unequivocally, that our call is for the decentralisation of all surveillance contracts within the Niger Delta region to ensure local participation, equitable opportunities, and engagement of high-impact regional stakeholders, not to undermine any single operator.’

‘Reports indicate that some Phase 2 and Phase 3 leaders within the Amnesty Programme have been coerced and mobilised to participate in a protest tomorrow in support of Tantita Security and continued centralisation. The Forum warns these leaders not to allow themselves to be used by those who have vowed to subjugate the entire Niger Delta region.’

We urge you to act with wisdom and understand that the reforms we seek is full decentralisation of surveillance contracts that will be beneficial to you, your communities, and the region as a whole.

‘We are aware that some of you have been threatened with the suspension of your stipends and allowances should you fail to align. We assure you that the Forum will stand by you if you face any form of victimisation for supporting a vision of a prosperous, inclusive Niger Delta and a stronger nation.

The Presidential Amnesty Programme is not the property of any individual, group, or kingdom, but a national institution serving the entire Niger Delta region.

‘Dr Otuaro’s actions in leveraging his office to protect narrow interests will no longer be tolerated. Misusing the office jeopardises the peace the programme was designed to maintain and risks destabilising the fragile equilibrium of the region.

‘The Forum therefore demands that Dr Otuaro immediately separate Tantita Security from the Amnesty Office, or step aside for more competent management. Failure to act confirms obstruction of reform for personal or sectional gain, directly threatening regional stability and national economic interests.

The Forum restated its calls on President Tinubu to intervene to halt the misuse of the Presidential Amnesty Office by Dr Otuaro, to pursue and protect narrow interests at the expense of national and regional interests that threaten trust, peace, and effective governance.

‘His conduct undermines critical reforms aimed at decentralising pipeline / oil and gas infrastructure surveillance for the benefit of all Niger Delta communities.

We further urge Your Excellency to caution Dr Denis Otuaro against bullying or threatening Phase 2 and Phase 3 leaders to participate in protests defending centralised operations. The Amnesty Office was never established for such actions, and coercing its beneficiaries to serve narrow interests undermines the purpose of the office and the welfare of the region. These leaders must not be coerced into obstructing reforms that are designed for the long-term benefit of their communities and the entire Niger Delta’, they insisted.

According to them, ‘The Niger Delta will no longer tolerate narrow interests compromising national wealth and regional stability. Full decentralisation of all surveillance contracts is non-negotiable, urgent, and essential.’

A public affairs commentator, Olaore Stephen, has called on the Federal Government to consider a senior official of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, Ojo John Olusola, for higher national responsibilities. He cited his track record of competence and service.

Stephen, in a statement in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, described Ojo as a disciplined and forward-thinking professional whose contributions to national development have remained impactful.

He noted that Ojo, who currently serves as Chief Administrative Officer at Tertiary Education Trust Fund, has demonstrated strong administrative leadership acumen and strategic capacity in the discharge of his duties.

Stephen added that Ojo has been instrumental in coordinating institutional policies and development programmes within the agency, contributing to improved governance frameworks and operational efficiency in the tertiary education sector.

The commentator said the Ekiti-born administrator had built a career spanning over two decades across both the public and private sectors, with experience in strategic planning, administration, finance, marketing and operations management.

He added that Ojo had worked across key sectors, including oil and gas, telecommunications, manufacturing and public service, which are critical to Nigeria’s economic growth.

Stephen also highlighted Ojo’s performance during his time at African Petroleum Plc, now Forte Oil Plc, where he reportedly recorded significant growth in lubricant sales and expanded the company’s market share.

He further hailed Ojo’s interpersonal and negotiation skills, describing them as vital assets in modern governance and leadership.

Stephen urged President Bola Tinubu to prioritise merit and competence by appointing professionals with proven records like Ojo into key national positions, saying such appointments would strengthen institutional effectiveness and promote a culture of performance-driven leadership in the country.

Ojo John Olusola, PhD: A Quiet Force of Excellence Deserving National Assignment

In a nation continually searching for competent, disciplined, and forward-thinking public servants, true distinction often emerges not from noise, but from substance. Dr. Ojo John Olusola exemplifies this rare quality a man whose career and character reflect quiet excellence, intellectual depth, and an unwavering commitment to national development.

My encounter with Dr. Ojo was both humbling and instructive. It reaffirmed a widely held perception about indigenes of Ekiti State a culture deeply rooted in scholarship, discipline, and an almost instinctive drive for self-improvement. In Dr. Ojo’s case, this ethos is not merely present; it is remarkably pronounced and consistently demonstrated.

Born in Ado Ekiti in 1970, Dr. Ojo has built a distinguished career spanning over two decades across both public and private sectors. His professional trajectory reflects both versatility and depth, with expertise in strategic planning, administration, business development, finance, marketing, and operations management. He has made meaningful contributions across key industries, including oil and gas, telecommunications, manufacturing, and public service-sectors central to Nigeria’s economic development.

Currently serving at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Dr. Ojo holds the position of Chief Administrative Officer and a member of the management team. In this capacity, he provides high-level administrative leadership and coordination, ensuring the effective implementation of institutional policies, strategic initiatives, and development programmes. His role is central to strengthening governance frameworks, improving operational efficiency, and supporting the sustainable advancement of Nigeria’s tertiary education system.

Dr. Ojo is not merely an administrator; he is a strategist with a demonstrable record of impact. His tenure at African Petroleum Plc (now Forte Oil Plc) remains a compelling example. Tasked with market expansion under challenging conditions, he delivered exceptional results, growing lubricant sales by over 3,400 percent while significantly expanding the company’s market reach. Such outcomes underscore a rare combination of analytical insight, disciplined execution, and strategic foresight.

His academic journey is equally distinguished. From his early education in Ado Ekiti to advanced degrees, including a PhD and M.Phil in Business Administration, Dr. Ojo embodies the principle of lifelong learning. Notably, his intellectual pursuits remain active, with continued aspirations toward professorial attainment and broader global engagement-an uncommon but commendable commitment at this stage of his career.

Beyond his credentials and professional milestones lies perhaps his most defining strength: an exceptional capacity for human relationship management and strategic negotiation. These are indispensable attributes in modern governance, where leadership increasingly demands the ability to align institutional priorities with human capital development. In this regard, Dr. Ojo stands out as both a bridge-builder and a results-driven thinker.

It is therefore both timely and appropriate to advocate for greater national recognition and responsibility for individuals of Dr. Ojo’s calibre. As the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues to emphasize competence, innovation, and performance-driven leadership, the inclusion of proven professionals like Dr. Ojo in national assignments would reinforce meritocracy while strengthening institutional effectiveness.

Ekiti State has long been celebrated as the ‘Fountain of Knowledge,’ and Dr. Ojo stands as a compelling embodiment of that legacy. His story is one of discipline, quiet resilience, and sustained excellence-qualities that Nigeria urgently requires in its journey toward sustainable development.

In recognising Dr. Ojo, we are reminded of an enduring truth: the progress of any nation rests not solely on political authority, but on the competence, integrity, and vision of those entrusted with its service.

Over 2,000 members of the Ondo State Chapter of the Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle, Tricycle, Repairers, and Riders Association of Nigeria (ACOMORON) have endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the next year’s presidential election.

ACOMORON expressed their readiness to work for the second term of President Tinubu.

The state Chairman of the transport union, Comrade Akinlolu Olumonrin, said they decided to support Tinubu because of the development he has brought to the state through the construction of roads and the appointments of prominent indigenes of the state into his government.

Speaking at a rally organised by the Asiwaju Mandate Group (AMG), Olumorin said the union members believe that once Tinubu is reelected, the good jobs he has embarked upon in the state would not be abandoned.

According to him, ‘We look into everything. All he did in Nigeria, in every state, we discovered he is the only person who can continue the job so that the programme will continue. On our own ends in ACOMORAN, we tried a lot to make ACOMORAN visible in Ondo State. We wrote many letters and even sued the government, but we did not achieve anything. We discovered that if we go through the President, our union may come to reality.’

Nigeria Women’s U-19 will look to complete a dominant tournament run when they face Rwanda in today’s final of 5th Nigeria Women’s Invitational WT20i (Patricia Kambarami Cup), after dismantling South Africa with a ruthless seven-wicket victory in the semi-finals.

The Nigerians never broke a sweat against South Africa, reducing the Proteas Women’s U-19 to five wickets down for just 6 runs inside four overs. South Africa limped to 66 all out in 17 overs – a total Nigeria overhauled in fewer than 10, with captain Lucky Piety killing the contest by smashing two sixes off her first two deliveries.

It was a performance that sent a message. Lilian Ude claimed 3 wickets for 6 runs in 4 overs and was named Player of the Match. In doing so, she reached the career milestone of 150 wickets. Nigeria’s bowling attack has been the most suffocating in the tournament, and Rwanda will have watched Thursday’s semi-final with concern.

Rwanda, for their part, showed they can dig deep. Their semi-final against Zimbabwe went down to the wire – the East Africans chasing 136 in 20 overs and crossing the line in the penultimate over to win by 5 wickets. Captain Marie Diane Bimenyinmana’s 34 off 41 balls held the chase together when it mattered most, while Giselle Ishimwe’s 37 off 24 balls gave Rwanda the early momentum they needed.

The final is a clash of contrasting styles – Nigeria’s disciplined bowling attack against Rwanda’s ability to bat under pressure and find match-winners at the biggest moments.

Nigeria arrive as clear favourites. But Rwanda have already shown they know how to win ugly. The final promises fireworks.

Toyin Abraham’s highest-grossing film, ‘Oversabi Aunty,’ has been honoured by the Dr Shaibu Husseini- led National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB).

The recognition is coming for her film, ‘Oversabi Aunty,’ which grossed over N1 billion at the Nigerian box office. The award celebrates Abraham’s ‘outstanding box office performance’ as a first-time director.

The ceremony took place at the board’s South West Zonal Office in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Thursday, March 20, 2026.

Guests at the ceremony included Olori Temitope Ogunwusi, the National President of the Association of Movie Producers in Nigeria, Blessing Ebigieson, Head of Operations at Viva Cinemas, Patrick Lee, Vice President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria, and Grace Edwin-Okon.

Speaking at the celebration of Abraham’s achievement, Dr Husseini said, ‘Today we gather to honour an exceptional talent. An actress, producer and debut director. We are here to celebrate Toyin Abraham, whose film ‘Oversabi Aunty’ has achieved an extraordinary milestone, surpassing N1 billion at the Nigerian box office.

‘This accomplishment is not only a personal triumph for her, but it is a testament to great strength, resilience, and the global potential of Nollywood. At the National Film and Video Censors Board, we take pride in supporting a thriving film culture that entertains, informs, and contributes meaningfully to our national economy. This recognition is part of our commitment to celebrating those who continue to raise the bar in storytelling and production. Today, we are also presenting her with an award for outstanding box office performance as a first-time director. Please, you must give Toyin Abraham a round of applause.

‘And to Toyin Abraham, we celebrate your vision, your hard work. You work very hard. The only place she has not done a skit is on my back. Your unwavering dedication to your craft cannot be compared. Congratulations to you.’

In the same vein, Olori Temitope Ogunwusi, one of the wives of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, shared how Abraham’s film prompted her to rethink her family life.

‘The movie isn’t just entertainment. It gave me the time to reflect on my family, my children across the world. I started calling them, telling them, ‘I’m not too busy for you.’ Toyin Abraham has taught me that even in our busy lives, we must be intentional about our loved ones. For those who haven’t seen ‘Oversabi Aunty,’ you need to see it. It is a must watch for all parents, especially religious people. You can’t watch it and remain the same. It’s a wake up call,’ she said.

Not fewer than 38 Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters were killed in a coordinated operation involving ground troops and the air component of Operation Hadin Kai, a military offensive against terrorists in North-East Nigeria.

The fighters were neutralised in the early hours of Saturday, March 28, while attempting to attack the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mandaragirau, Sector 2.

The Media Information Officer of the Joint Military Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, disclosed this in a statement.

Uba explained that the troops engaged the terrorists through well-coordinated ambushes and a deliberate offensive-defensive response, forcing them into a disorderly withdrawal.

The military spokesperson added that the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai provided close air support, as well as intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) feedback to enhance targeted kinetic operations.

He said, ‘Subsequent exploitation along the terrorists’ withdrawal routes inflicted further heavy losses.

‘A total of about 38 terrorists were neutralized with 8 bodies recovered so far within the immediate engagement area and human intelligence from locals confirming over 30 additional terrorists’ bodies and weapons strewn along Garin Mallum-Garin Gajere axis into the Timbuktu Triangle.

‘This was evidenced by blood trails and abandoned equipment.’

According to him, troops recovered seven AK-47 rifles, eight magazines, four RPG bombs and assorted ammunition after the engagement.

Uba said the military recorded no fatalities, but one personnel was injured, and one Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle was hit by Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG) fired by enemy forces.

He said, ‘The scale of enemy losses has triggered widespread jubilation among local communities and highlights the sustained dominance of OPHK troops in denying terrorists freedom of action.’

Uba said the troops have continued exploitation operations along the Garin Mallum and Garin Gajere axis, at the fringes of the Timbuktu Triangle, to ‘recover the terrorists’ corpses left behind and consolidate gains.’

The Lagos State Government has held special prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of his 74th birthday and his re-election bid.

It was held at the Lagos Secretariat Community Central Mosque (LSCCM), Alausa.

The event featured clerics offering prayers for Nigeria, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Dr Kadri Hamzat and other political leaders.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General, Lawal Pedro, SAN, thanked Lagosians and Nigerians for their support for President Tinubu.

The governor expressed optimism that the country would overcome its current challenges under Tinubu’s leadership.

He urged residents not to be complacent about the president’s political future but to remain actively engaged.

He called on eligible voters to obtain their Permanent Voters’ Cards and participate fully in future elections.

He called for sustained mobilisation ahead of the 2027 polls.

He noted that the president remains committed to reforms aimed at improving security and strengthening the nation.

Sanwo-Olu also referenced ongoing discussions around the creation of state police, noting that proposals on its operational framework have been submitted to the National Assembly. He urged Nigerians to remain patient and trust the administration’s long-term vision, adding that national development requires time and consistency.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters (Islam), Dr Abdullahi Jebe, said the prayer session was necessary in recognition of Tinubu’s contributions to society. He described the president as a leader who has mentored many and contributed to the development of others.

Dr Jebe said that praying for national leaders remains an important responsibility, noting that Tinubu’s tenure as governor of Lagos laid foundations that continue to shape governance in the state. He urged Nigerians to reflect on the president’s leadership and support efforts aimed at national progress.

Chairman of the mosque, Afis Gbolahan LSCCM Chairman, Mr Hafis Toriola, an engineer, said the initiative was not only to honour the president but also to pray for the country’s stability and growth.

Toriola, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing, explained that the gathering aligned with religious teachings which encourage prayers for leaders, adding that the session focused on seeking divine guidance, protection and wisdom for those in positions of authority.

He said that the prayers extended beyond the president to include key state officials and the Nation.

According to him, the goal was to ask for wisdom and direction for leaders at all levels, with the hope that their decisions would promote development and improve the welfare of citizens.

An aspirant for the Osun West senatorial ticket on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Waliyulai Adebayo Oladosu, has explained that he was in the race to offer quality representation to his people at the National Assembly.

Also, Oladosu, who’s popularly referred to as Rovet, expressed the optimism that the party’s gubernatorial candidate, Alhaji Bola Oyebamiji(AMBO), would emerge victorious at the polls, assuring as well that Asiwaju Bola Tinubu would be reelected as President of the country in 2027.

In a statement released by his Media Office, the Iwo-born politician, while appealing to APC leaders, stakeholders and members to ensure his emergence as the senatorial candidate of the party, maintained that his candidature would attract more votes to the party in the upcoming elections.

‘To replicate the wonderful job of President Bola Tinubu, I am assuring that if I am given the APC Osun West senatorial ticket, we shall win. This will offer me the ample opportunity of further serving our people who have been yearning for good and quality representation all this while,’ he stressed.

According to him, as an individual familiar with the needs of the people and the areas in the senatorial district, he would readily apply his knowledge, exposure and connections to attract the needed attention from the Federal Government and corporate bodies to mitigate the challenges being faced by them.

While calling for massive support for APC at the coming elections later this year and in 2027, Alhaji Oladosu promised a direct link with the people at the grassroots who have always been left out in the scheme of things.

‘I can assure you that my presence at the National Assembly will largely factor in the interest of our people at the grassroots, who always give so much but get little in return. Above all, if given the opportunity as from next year, by the grace of God, my voice in the hallowed chamber will be for the betterment of the senatorial district and the state,’ he added.

Oladosu, who is currently holding consultations across the ten local governments in the senatorial district, urged party members not to rest on their oars in their mobilisation quest so as to ease the success of APC at the polls.

While calling for a unity of purpose among the party members across the state, he implored the people to always be peaceful and law-abiding in order to achieve the envisaged progress in society.

Burundian Ambassador to Nigeria, Edward Nduwimana, has pleaded with Nigeria to resume the supply of crude oil to his country.

Burundi and Nigeria had signed an agreement leading to the supply of 45,000 barrels per day of crude oil between 2008 and 2014 before the agreement was suspended.

Nduwimana attributed the suspension to Nigeria’s desire to restructure the sector.

Nduwimana, however, disclosed that moves are ongoing to revive the agreement.

In a session with some selected journalists in Abuja, the envoy also reaffirmed Burundi’s commitment to further strengthening its cooperation with Nigeria.

He said: ‘Burundi wishes to express its gratitude to the Nigerian people, through their institutions, for the support provided since 2008 through the supply of crude oil. In return, Burundi has remained faithful to its diplomatic commitments toward Nigeria from that time to the present and is committed to strengthening this loyalty.

‘This support has helped mitigate the effects of the energy deficit in my country.

‘We understand that the suspension that occurred in 2014 took place in a particular context, driven by the government’s desire to restructure the sector.

‘However, Burundi remains convinced that Nigeria, true to its values of African solidarity and shared prosperity, will be able to consider resuming this cooperation in a spirit of mutually beneficial partnership.’

Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Ltd (PINL), the surveillance contractor for the Trans-Niger Pipeline (TNP), has cautioned that any team found involved in sabotage risks contract termination and legal action.

Dr Akpos Mezeh, PINL’s General Manager for Community and Stakeholder Relations, gave the warning during a meeting with host communities in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. He highlighted a rise in vandalism and crude oil theft along the pipeline.

Mezeh noted that preliminary investigations into two recent oil theft incidents indicate a ‘coordinated conspiracy,’ and emphasized that all responsible parties will be held accountable once the investigation concludes.

His words, ‘we’re currently faced with an unpleasant situation, and I must use this opportunity to sound a strong warning to all our contractors and surveillance teams. Recently, at Atali axis – zone 4, two tankers were intercepted while attempting to load crude. It was only through the effectiveness of our backup intelligence system that this operation was foiled, otherwise, those trucks would have successfully loaded.

‘Preliminary findings point to a possible coordinated conspiracy. Let me be clear, once investigations are concluded, everyone found culpable will be brought to justice, and no one will be spared.

‘Furthermore, in Bayelsa State, at Otukpoti axis zone 9, we recorded yet another case of sabotage arising from negligence on the part of our surveillance guards. This is unacceptable. Let this serve as a clear and firm warning to all contractors and operatives that, any act of negligence, compromise, or collusion will not be tolerated.

Continuing, ‘ Going forward, any contractor found wanting will not only lose their contract but will also face full prosecution under the law. At the same time, we must continue to strengthen collaboration. The community intelligence systems have significantly enhanced information flow and improved response times’.

He promised to sustain advocacy for the provision of floating petrol and gas stations in riverine communities in Bayelsa state.

He called for enhanced collaboration between host communities, security agencies, government institutions, and pipeline operators to ensure success of securing critical national assets.

He said, ‘At PINL, we hold firmly to one guiding principle-Community Partnership is National Security. When Communities Protect Infrastructure, they Protect Livelihoods, National Revenue, and the Future of our Country’.

Mezeh highlighted the role of the nation’s energy sector in national development and economic stability.

‘According to the latest operational report released by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the national oil company recorded a profit after tax of N385 billion in January 2026, generating N2.571 trillion in revenue and remitting N726 billion to the Federation Account during the same period after 1.64 million barrels per day production.

‘These figures demonstrate renewed operational efficiency and improved performance across Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. This improvement was driven largely by the successful completion of maintenance operations at key onshore facilities.

‘Nigeria also recorded encouraging progress in natural gas production, which increased to 7,283 million standard cubic feet per day, compared to 6,914 million standard cubic feet per day recorded in December 2025. Gas sales strengthened as well, reaching approximately 4,978 million standard cubic feet per day, reflecting improved supply to power plants, industrial consumers, and export markets’.

Mezeh said the firm will remain committed to promoting initiatives that improve the welfare of host communities and foster inclusive participation, including capacity building training for community-based contractors, prioritizing collaboration just as he noted that security was a shared responsibility

‘We’ll have more youth participation in pipeline protection activities, women-focused economic empowerment programmes, educational support through scholarship schemes.

‘Several interventions have been implemented, including, Scholarship programmes for students, Women empowerment initiatives, Medical outreach programmes, Distribution of humanitarian support and palliatives, We recognize that young people remain critical stakeholders in the future of our communities and for this reason, PINL is proposing a comprehensive Youth Skills Acquisition Programme in 2026 across our states of operations.

‘We also acknowledge stakeholder feedback regarding the women empowerment programme, particularly the need for faster disbursement. And so we’ re currently working closely with Premium Trust Bank, and payments will commence as soon as possible’, Mezeh reiterated.

In a goodwill message, Chairman of the State’s Traditional Rulers Council, HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo(Agada IV), praised the firm on its relentless efforts in developing oil and gas host communities for the better.

He praised the firm for its various initiatives aimed at bringing succour and awareness to host communities, calling on other oil and gas companies to emulate PINL to give relief to communities within their catchment areas.