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Owing to the campaign on net zero emission, Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) Effurun has in collaboration with relevant agencies embarked on researches on renewable energy.

But the institute warned that despite the fierce campaign for energy transition, Africa not to abandon its 125 billion barrels crude oil reserves and 600 Trillion Cubic Feet (TCF) in a hurry.

According to the Principal and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Samuel Onoji, the continent should rather work harder in researches that will lead to the development of local technologies for the exploitation of crude oil in a sustainable way.

His words: ‘With an estimated 125 billion barrels of crude oil reserves and over 600tcf of natural gas reserves in Africa, it is our considered opinion that Africa should not hasten to abandon fossil fuel but should strive.

to deepen research and development of local technologies that enable the exploitation and utilization of our oil and gas endowment in a more environmentally friendly manner as the reality of global demand for fossil fuel is expected to linger for the next 50 years.’

Onoji spoke yesterday in the world press conference on the 4th Biannual International Conference on Hydrocarbon Science and Technology (I CHAT) in Abuja.

He revealed that PTI is reducing the carbon footprint in different ways, despite the fact that net zero emission as mirage.

According to him, emission of carbon is always reduced in the production of natural gas with a paltry 7 per cent flared.

He added that the Research and Development Directorate of the PTI is also developing a technology to assist in the reduction of carbon emission.

He said one of the measures for de-carbornisation of the hydrocarbon is through the Carbon Credit Mechanism that the institute is adopting.

Onoji said, ‘When you are talking about emissions, you are talking about natural gas. Of course, we you produce oil, you also produce natural gas.

‘And part of this natural gas is used in the field, part of it is refined in the Liquefied natural gas. So, it has actually reduced to about less than 7% of natural gas being flared.

‘Of course, in the research and development directorate of the Petroleum Training Institute is also developing technology that will help to reduce this emission.

‘And one of that ways is the carbon credit mechanism that we are also putting in place.’

Although the Research and Development Director, Dr. Tina Isichie noted that it is a mirage to think of net zero in 2060, PTI is conscious of balancing growth, environment and governance.

She said the institute is focusing on the production of crude oil in a manner that is not harmful to the environment.

She said carbon capture utilization and storage is now the global topical conversation.

According to her, the measure is still a pilot scheme in the laboratory while upscaling it requires a huge amount of money.

Isichie said PTI is partnering with other relevant agencies to reduce carbon footprint.

She said taking cognizance of energy transition, the institute is conducting a research on renewable energy.

Insisting that petroleum cannot be abandoned, she said there are other products from the hydrocarbon aside from fuels.

On her stand of net zero emission, she said, ‘The issue of fossil fuel being put aside by 2050 or 2060 is a mirage. And I say that because fossil fuel has come to stay.

‘We also realized that petrochemicals and other things used for other industries do come from the crude. So, it is not just from the crude. So, it is not just about fuel, whether aviation fuel or gasoline or kerosene, there are other aspects that come from crude oil. Even our pharmaceuticals. So you cannot completely abandon them.’

On the conference, Onoji said the essence of the conference is to pull together scientists, subject matter experts, researchers, government agencies, academia, students community and top players in the oil, gas and energy industry to examine topical issues with a view to presenting cutting-edge research, sharing field experiences and discussing policies that will shape the future of hydrocarbon in a fast-changing world.

He also said, ‘The theme of this year’s conference ‘Transforming Africa’s Hydrocarbon sector; Balancing Growth, Environment and Governance, according to him, is apt as it aims to provide a holistic future of the oil and gas industry with a view to guiding critical stakeholders towards embracing opportunities, addressing challenges and fostering sustainable development in the ever-dynamic industry.’

He said the conference will feature key note addresses from both Honorable Ministers of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil/Gas), Chief Executive Officers from sister agencies, panel sessions, exhibitions from partners and sponsors, as well as technical paper presentations.

Adele Ajosun Family of Lagos has urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene in the alleged unlawful capping of a ‘Baale’ on Igbologun Island.

It said the appointment is illegal, irregular and an assault on the legacy of the island.

In a statement by Moroof Adele, chair, and Okanlawon Adele, secretary, it said the action by Oba Maroof Oluwa, Olu of Iwa and Apapa, violated traditions.

The statement said: ‘Our family opposes this and will challenge same. The history of Igbologun does not support the illegalities of September 6.

‘Igbologun Island belongs to Oba Ologunkutere (fourth oba of Lagos), who put his son, then prince, and later Oba Adele Ajosun (fifth oba) as custodian of the island-forest when he was called upon to be capped as king of Lagos.”

Adele Ajosun also left Igbologun Island to succeed his father, Oba Ologunkutere, as the fifth Oba of Lagos, and he subsequently installed his son, Prince Iworu Amore, to be in charge of Igbologun Island as ‘Baale’.’

The royal family alleged that the capping involved a surveying expedition conducted by Olu of Iwa and Apapa, in collusion with one of Oba Ologunkutere’s customary tenants, the Olaleye family.

Condemning the exercise, the family said members had been prevailed on to remain calm and peaceful, while pursuing legal avenues to assert their historical rights over the island.

‘Apart from the historical inadequacy of this illegality, we also view this as an injustice that must be fought and defeated, no matter the costs. Nevertheless, as a law-abiding royal family, we have prevailed on all members of our family to be calm and peaceful, as we run this marathon to formally establish our family’s interest,’ the statement added.

Beiersdorf, through its global social-mission, NIVEA Connect, has partnered SOS Children’s Villages to combat the challenge of social isolation and loneliness, especially among the vulnerable and young people.

As part of this partnership, Nivea presented N96.686 million to SOS, a foremost NGO that has championed the cause of family, trust, and togetherness for over 50 years.

Dele Adeyole, Country manager of Beiersdorf, reaffirmed the brand’s heritage of care and dedication to addressing social issues that affect well-being.

‘This partnership is part of our global social mission, in more than 60 countries. It’s important that we fight social isolation and loneliness, a silent epidemic today.’

The collaboration highlights Beiersdorf’s belief that care extends beyond skin to include bonds and support.

Choosing SOS reflects its commitment to creating safe, stable, and nurturing environments for children, in line with Nivea’s mission to promote inclusion and belonging.

Celebrated Nigerian actress Linda Ejiofor Suleiman has been nominated for Best Leading Actress at the upcoming Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) for her riveting performance in the critically acclaimed film Serpent’s Gift.

The nomination marks a major milestone in her career and a triumphant return to the big screen after years of being best known as a leading face on the iconic Nigerian soap opera, ‘Tinsel’.

Her portrayal in Serpent’s Gift has been praised by critics for its emotional depth, subtlety, and powerful screen presence.

‘Linda fully came prepared for the role, and she deserves her flowers,’ a viewer says. ‘Serpent’s Gift had a packed cast, and it was wonderful to see Linda shine through.’

Serpent’s Gift, directed by Kayode Kasum, explores themes of grief, resilience, and family legacy, with Linda playing the lead role of Ijeoma, a young widow navigating the murky line between tradition and truth.

Ejiofor Suleiman first captured hearts with her long-running role as Bimpe on Tinsel, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated television series. Her transition from TV staple to big-screen heavyweight has been years in the making, and this AMAA nomination is widely seen as a deserved recognition of her range and growth as an actress.

The 2025 AMAA Awards will be held in Lagos on November 8, celebrating outstanding achievements in African cinema.

Linda’s nomination puts her in the running alongside some of the continent’s most respected and dynamic performers.

Linda Ejiofor Suleiman is a Nigerian actress known for her breakout role in Tinsel and films like The Meeting and A Soldier’s Story. With over a decade in the industry, she has built a reputation for versatile, heartfelt performances across both television and film.

The UK Supreme Court has unanimously ruled in favour of Nigeria in a long-standing legal dispute with Process and Industrial Developments Limited (P and ID) over £44 million in legal costs.

The court’s decision, delivered on October 22 by Lord Reed (President), Lord Hodge (Deputy President), Lord Stephens, Lord Richards and Lady Simler, affirms that Nigeria is entitled to recover its legal costs in sterling (GBP) rather than naira (NGN).

The dispute arose from a contract between P and ID and the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the construction of a gas processing facility in Nigeria.

P and ID commenced arbitration proceedings against Nigeria, resulting in two awards totalling US$6.6 billion plus interest at seven per cent in 2015 and 2017.

However, Nigeria successfully challenged the awards under section 68 of the Arbitration Act 1996, citing fraud and public policy violations.

The UK Supreme Court held that an order for costs ‘is not intended to compensate for loss’ but rather represents a statutory indemnity for expenses incurred in litigation.

Since Nigeria incurred liability and made payments in sterling, the court ruled that a costs order in sterling was appropriate.

The court’s decision reaffirms the principle that costs are to be awarded in the currency in which the legal services were billed and paid, unless there are exceptional or abusive circumstances.

This ruling marks another significant legal victory for Nigeria in the long-running dispute with P and ID, following the country’s landmark success in overturning the US$11 billion arbitration award in 2023.

The decision also provides clarity on the currency in which costs should be awarded in international arbitration cases.

The Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has thrown his heavy weight behind the Bodex Social Media Hangout (BSMH) team to become the initiative’s grand patron.

Sanwo-Olu made this known during a courtesy visit to the Governor by the team led by the convener, Bodex Hungbo, as part of activities leading up to the sixth edition of the Bodex Social Media Hangout (BSMH 6.0).

Themed ‘Social Media and A.I Influence: Transforming Yourself, Services, and the Society,’

The 2025 edition continues the platform’s mission to promote responsible media use, foster digital literacy, and empower social media users across Nigeria.

During the visit, the BSMH team expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Governor for his administration’s continuous support of media innovation and youth focused initiatives in Lagos State.

Hungbo noted that the Governor’s digital forward policies and open engagement with citizens have set Lagos apart as a model for digital governance and media inclusion in Africa.

Speaking at the meeting, the Governor emphasized that Lagos remains the heartbeat of innovation and creativity, and as a Governor who celebrates homegrown talent making global impact, he will continue to support platforms that amplify voices, shape narratives, and promote responsible digital engagement.

The highlight of the visit was the formal presentation of an official invitation to the Governor to attend BSMH 6.0 as a Keynote Speaker during the Grand Finale and the Grand Patron Award Ceremony.

In a statement, Hungo noted that Sanwo-Olu will be presented with the award for ‘Most Digital Media Friendly Governor of the Year’ during the grand finale in recognition of his visionary leadership and commitment to leveraging technology for public engagement and transparency in governance.

The Governor warmly accepted the honor, commended the BSMH team for their efforts in bridging the gap between social media and societal progress, and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote responsible media use and digital growth across Lagos State.

Benin City, the Edo State capital, will come alive from December 21, 2025 to December 24, 2025 when it plays host to the Edo Carnival 2025, a four-day cultural fiesta showcasing music, dance, fashion, food, and tradition.

The event, which will be held at Garrick Memorial on Ekehuan Road, is expected to draw thousands of visitors, including culture enthusiasts, tourists, and residents.

Organisers said the carnival will feature cultural parades, traditional masquerades, live music concerts, and fashion shows celebrating Edo and African styles. Dance competitions and street performances will also add colour to the city.

Food lovers will enjoy a festival of delicacies that blends Edo favourites with Nigerian staples, while educational programmes such as seminars and training sessions will run alongside the entertainment.

One of the highlights will be the Miss Edo Carnival 2025 pageant, described as a platform to celebrate grace, intelligence, and cultural pride.

The festival will climax with a grand finale and fireworks display across the Benin skyline.

According to the organisers, Edo Carnival is designed not only as entertainment but also as a celebration of the state’s heritage and a platform to boost tourism and community

North Korea said yesterday that its latest missile tests involved a new hypersonic system aimed at strengthening its nuclear war deterrent, as leader Kim Jong Un continues to build up weapons designed to overwhelm South Korea’s defenses.

The report by North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency came a day after South Korea’s military said it detected the North firing multiple missiles from an area south of the capital, Pyongyang, and said they flew about 350 kilometres (217 miles) northeast before falling on land.

The tests came days before world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, are expected to gather in rival South Korea for the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings.

The U.S. Forces Korea said in a statement that it was ‘fully aware’ of North Korea’s ballistic launches and also its ‘relentless pursuit of long-range missile capabilities.’ It urged the North to refrain from ‘unlawful and destabilising actions’ in violation of U.N. Security Council sanctions, adding that the U.S. commitment to its alliance with Seoul remains ‘ironclad.’

KCNA said the launches involved two hypersonic projectiles that accurately struck a land target in the country’s northern region. It described the system as strategic, implying that the missiles were designed to be armed with nuclear warheads.

KCNA didn’t specify the name of the missile system it tested. At a military parade earlier this month, Kim unveiled some of his military’s newest weapons, including what appeared to be a short-range ballistic system fitted with hypersonic glide vehicles.

North Korea in recent years has been testing various missile systems tipped with hypersonic weapons, which are designed to fly at more than five times the speed of sound. The speed and maneuverability of such weapons are meant to help them evade regional missile defense systems, but experts have questioned whether they have consistently flown at the speeds the North claimed during tests.

Pak Jong Chon, one of Kim’s top military officials who attended Wednesday’s tests, lauded the performance of the ‘new cutting-edge weapon system’ and said the North would continue efforts to bolster its war deterrent and defense capabilities.

During the Oct. 10 parade, Kim also unveiled a new intercontinental ballistic missile that state media described as the country’s most powerful nuclear asset, adding to his growing collection of weapons with potential range to reach the U.S. mainland. Experts say the North could be preparing to test the missile in the coming weeks, ahead of a major ruling party conference in early 2026, when Kim is expected to announce key policy directions, potentially including his approach toward the United States.

Kim has been sharply accelerating the pace of weapons tests since his high-stakes nuclear diplomacy with Trump fell apart in 2019 due to wrangling over the U.S.-led economic sanctions.

Wednesday’s launches were North Korea’s first ballistic missile tests since liberal South Korean President Lee Jae Myung took office in June, pledging to restore peace on the Korean Peninsula. But Kim has so far rejected Lee’s offer for talks and has said he won’t resume diplomacy with the United States unless Washington abandons its goal of denuclearizing the North.

The Federal Government has announced a uniform price for all the houses under the Renewed Housing Programme.

The government yesterday stated that the prices across the country now stand at N8.5 million for a one-bedroom semi-detached bungalow, N11.5 million for a two-bedroom semi-detached bungalow and N12.5 million for a three-bedroom semi-detached bungalow.

The adoption of uniform selling prices aimed at promoting affordability, transparency, and fairness.

Also, it will ensure that Nigerians across all regions have equal opportunities to benefit from the Renewed Hope Housing Programme.

Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, said that priority in the allocation of the housing units will be given to low- and middle-income earners, civil servants at all levels of government, employees in the organised private sector with verifiable sources of income, and Nigerians in the Diaspora who wish to own homes in the country.

The Ministry further announced that the sale of the completed housing units across the northern and southern regions will soon commence and encouraged the public to be part of it.

On payment options, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, explained that several payment options have been provided to make the houses affordable and flexible. These include outright (full) payment, mortgage, rent-to-own scheme, and instalment payment plans. This according to him is to enhance affordability and ensure fairness for qualified Nigerians

Renewed Hope housing projects is a Federal Government housing initiative under President Bola Tinubu to provide affordable housing across the country. The programme includes large-scale ‘Renewed Hope Cities’ in each geopolitical zone and ‘Renewed Hope Estates’ in 30 states, with a total target of 34,500 units across the nation. Financing options like mortgages, rent-to-own, and public rental are available, and a new online portal has been launched to facilitate the process.

The nation’s current housing gap is estimated at 28 million units, with some experts suggesting the number could be as high as 50 million. This deficit is driven by factors like rapid urbanisation, a lack of affordable mortgage options, and high construction costs, making homeownership unattainable for many citizens.

Considering the gaps in the sector the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development approved and announced uniform sale prices for housing units under its Renewed Hope Estate Programme across all states of the federation.

MEYER PLC, paint manufacturer, has upskilled painters and others, in an interactive and empowernent outing, called the Painters’ Forum, in Lagos. It brought together painters from Abeokuta, Ibadan, Lekki, Badagry, and others.

The event served as a platform for the company to deepen its relationship with painters while unveiling innovations in its product range.

Managing Director, Henshaw Nwaorgu, introduced the firm’s latest product, Meyer Sleek Emulsion, and highlighted modern safety practice for painters as part of the company’s 2025 technical update.

Nwaorgu noted that the Meyer brand had undergone improvement over the years, assuring that the company would attain the apex of quality and customer satisfaction.

‘Meyer paints have improved, and this progress will not stop until we achieve the highest quality and ensure full satisfaction,’ he said.

He lauded painters for their loyalty and contribution to the company’s growth, describing them as ‘indispensable partners’ in Meyer’s success story.

The interactive session saw Technical Head, Makendi Ayodeji; National Sales Manager, Curtis Adekunle; and Eniola Kehinde engage participants on issues from product performance and safety standards to marketing strategies and the firm’s wall-satin paint.

Participants took part in a gift bonanza and lucky-dip, where winners got protective gear, tools, and other items.

A beneficiary, Mr. Ola, a Meyer user, described the forum as ‘one-of-a-kind.’ Having won a modern spray machine, he praised the brand’s quality and affordability, noting that his new tool now enables him to complete a three-hour job in just ten minutes.

Other participants lauded the forum for its practical insight, strong networking, and demonstration of Meyer’s commitment to uplifting the painting profession in Nigeria.