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Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Ltd., a leading consumer packaged goods company and a member of the Coca-Cola Hellenic Beverage Company (CCHBC), reaffirmed its leadership in promoting circularity and environmental sustainability by sponsoring an interactive session at the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit held in Abuja.

The session, themed ‘Driving Industrialisation Through Circular PET Packaging: Unlocking Nigeria’s Green Economy,’ brought together senior government officials, regulators, and industry leaders to discuss how circular practices can accelerate industrial growth, create jobs, and facilitate Nigeria’s transition to a green economy.

Delivering the keynote address, Senator John Enoh, Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, praised the Coca-Cola System for its ongoing leadership in recycling and packaging recovery. He described the company’s efforts as a model for how private sector innovation can complement government action in advancing sustainability.

‘In January this year, I visited the Nigerian Bottling Company’s packaging waste collection hub in Apapa,’ the Minister stated. ‘That initiative, along with efforts like the National Automotive Design and Development Council’s End-of-Life Vehicle Regulation, reflects our commitment to redefining our industrial landscape. Here, manufacturing and sustainability intersect, transforming industry from mere output to impactful engagement.’

He emphasised the government’s efforts to create frameworks that support the recycling and green manufacturing sectors.

‘The 20th-century model of produce, consume, and discard has reached its end,’ he remarked. ‘The circular economy presents a new path where what was once deemed waste is transformed into opportunities, turning developmental challenges into engines for new industries.’

Following the keynote address, the session included a fireside chat with the Minister and a panel discussion featuring thought leaders and policymakers. Panel members included Hon. Shehu Wada Sagagi, Commissioner, Ministry for Commerce and Investment, Kano State; Engr. (Dr.) Bahijjahtu Abubakar, FNSE, Director, Department of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Federal Ministry of Environment; Prince Adeyemi Adeniran, CEO, National Bureau of Statistics (represented by Ms. Christie Umuna, Head of the Energy and Environment Statistics Division); and Mr. Basheer Abdulkadri, Director of Technical Services, Federal Ministry of Finance, who was represented by Musa Umar, Deputy Director of Technical Services, Federal Ministry of Finance.

Through its nationwide collection hubs, strategic recycling partnerships, and community engagement programs, the Coca-Cola System in Nigeria continues to advance its global commitment to collect and recycle the equivalent of every bottle or can it sells.

By fostering collaboration among government, industry, and civil society, the Coca-Cola System is helping to shape a sustainable circular economy that supports livelihoods, protects the environment, and drives inclusive industrial growth across Nigeria.

THE Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has formed a strategic partnership with the Nigeria Police Force through a new initiative called the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV). This collaboration aims to create secure communities for young people.

Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, NECA’s Director General, stated that this partnership demonstrates a mutual commitment to fostering safer communities, empowering youth, and addressing the root causes of social vices through preventive and non-violent approaches.

Oyerinde announced that NECA would support the police in their upcoming International Day of the Girl Child Summit 2025, which is scheduled for Saturday, October 11, 2025, at the Nigeria Police Resource Centre in Jabi, Abuja.

The summit, organized by POCACOV under the global theme ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future’ and the Nigerian sub-theme ‘My Identity, My Power: Creating Safer Spaces for the Nigerian Girl Child,’ will bring together more than 500 secondary school girls, educators, parents, law enforcement officers, civil society organizations, and media partners.

He mentioned that NECA will provide facilitators for mentorship sessions across all panels and workshops, as well as grant all participants access to NECA’s AI Fluency Course, which is offered in collaboration with Microsoft through the International Organisation of Employers (IOE). This course enables participants to learn, onboard, and earn certification in digital skills.

Additionally, NECA will award a one-session scholarship to two outstanding girls-one from the junior class and one from the senior class-to promote academic excellence and leadership potential.

The organization will also provide 50 school bags for participating students as part of its support for their educational needs.

Oyerinde emphasized that the summit’s primary objectives include equipping girls with leadership and digital skills, offering mentorship from credible female role models, encouraging creative expression through the motto ‘My Identity, My Power,’ and fostering collaboration among schools, families, communities, and the Nigeria Police Force.

Through this partnership, NECA reaffirms its commitment to youth empowerment, gender inclusion, and creating a safe and supportive environment where every girl can thrive and realize her potential.

The Qur’an says: ‘Give the relative his right, and the needy and the traveler [as well]. That is better for those who seek God’s pleasure, and it is they who are the felicitous.’ (Qur’an – 30:38)

Charity is one of the attributes of the Allah-wary and real believers. The Qur’an says: ‘This is the Book, there is no doubt in it, guidance to the righteous, who believe in the Unseen, and maintain the prayer, and spend out of what We have provided for them.’ (Qur’an – 2:2-3)

‘The faithful are only those whose hearts tremble [with awe] when Allah is mentioned, and when His verses are recited to them, they increase their faith, and who put their trust in their Lord, maintain the prayer and spend out of what We have provided them. They are truly the faithful. They shall have ranks near their Lord, forgiveness, and a noble provision.’ (Qur’an – 8:2-4)

The fact that charitable giving serves as a way to bring justice, balance, and kindness to every society and community is well known, but more than that, charity has benefits for the donors themselves. Hence, the Prophet (SAW) said, ‘The upper hand is better than the lower hand.’

This world is in the form of an echo. There will be echoes of whatever we do, and it will return to us. Therefore, if we give, we will receive. The Qur’an says,

‘Whoever does righteous deeds, it is for his own benefit, and whoever does evil, it is against himself; your Creator and Nurturer is never unjust to His human creatures.’ (Qur’an – 41:46)

Almighty Allah said in a Qudsi hadith, ‘Spend in charity, O son of Adam, and I will spend on you.’

Although those who give in charity should do so without any hope of a return, and simply to please Allah SWT, there is nonetheless a noble reward for them. In other words, through charity, the giver does not lose his or her income and wealth, because Allah SWT guarantees that He will multiply it for the giver. The return may be increased to twice the amount given, or even more than 700 times the initial amount. The degree of the reward differs based on the significance of the charitable act and the sincerity of the giver.

‘The example of those who spend their money in the cause of Allah is like a seed that sprouts forth seven pods; in each pod there is one hundred seeds; and Allah multiplies for whoever He chooses, and Allah is Encompassing, Knowledgeable.’ (Qur’an – 2:261)

‘The example of those who spend their money seeking Allah’s grace and to save their souls is like the example of a garden on high ground which is subjected to a heavy rain, and because of that it produces double its crop! And if no heavy rain comes, then light rain is enough. And Allah is Seer over all you do.’ (Qur’an – 2:265)

‘To these We grant twice the reward for that they have been patient. And they counter evil with good, and from Our provisions to them, they give.’ (Qur’an – 28:54)

‘Indeed the charitable men and charitable women, and those who lend Allah a good loan – it shall be multiplied for them, and there is a noble reward for them.’ (Qur’an – 57:18)

‘That which you give in usury in order that it may increase people’s wealth does not increase with Allah. But any contribution that you have placed seeking His presence – it is they who will be given a manifold increase.’ (Qur’an – 30:39)

The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said, ‘Charity does not decrease wealth, no one forgives another except that God increases his honor, and no one humbles himself for the sake of God except that God raises his status.’

Moreover, Allah SWT will give the best reward in the Hereafter to those who spend out of their property:

‘Whatever you have been given are the wares of the life of this world, but what is with Allah is better and more lasting for those who have faith and who put their trust in their Lord; . Those who answer their Lord, . and they spend out of what We have provided them with.’ (Qur’an – 42:36-38)

Charity is an honorable act of kindness and an unselfish act of worship. It is a way to purify one’s heart and mind. The Prophet (SAW) said,

‘Give (regular charity) out of your property, for truly it is a purifier, and be kind to your relatives and acknowledge the rights of the poor, neighbors and (those in need who seek your help).’

By sacrificing part of one’s wealth and giving it in charity, the individual guarantees protection from tragedy and misfortune and removes the problems of ordinary life and beyond. The Prophet (SAW) said,

‘Verily charity appeases the wrath of Allah and avoids bad death.’

The giver will obtain Allah’s protection on the Day of Judgment. In the well-known Hadith about the seven types of people who will receive Allah’s shade or protection on that Day, one of those listed is:

‘A man who gives charitable gifts so secretly that his left hand does not know what his right hand has given.’

On the day when all other shade will be gone, Allah SWT will shade and shelter those who give charity and care for the poor.

Charity is not just giving money, but like all righteous deeds, there are some conditions for the acceptance of charity. The Qur’an says:

‘Piety is not to turn your faces to the east or the west; rather, piety is [personified by] those who have faith in God and the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets, and who give their wealth, for the love of Him, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler and the beggar.’ (Qur’an – 2:177)

Charity should be for the sake of Allah and in His way. In many verses of the Qur’an about charity, it has been emphasized that it should be in the way of Allah.

It should be for the welfare of the poor and without any expectations of reward. It should not be followed with reproaches or harm. It should not be given for the purpose of pretense or to show off.

‘Those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah and then do not follow up what they have spent with reproaches and affronts (with insult nor harm), they shall have their reward near their Lord, and they will have no fear, nor will they grieve. An honourable word with pardon is better than a charity followed by affront. Allah is all-sufficient, most forbearing. O you who have faith! Do not render your charities void by reproaches and affronts, like those who spend their wealth to be seen by people and have no faith in Allah and the Last Day. Their parable is that of a rock covered with soil: a downpour strikes it, leaving it bare. They have no power over anything of what they have earned, and Allah does not guide the faithless lot.’ (Qur’an – 2:262-264)

The Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) has intervened in the ongoing leadership crisis within the Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN).

To address the disputes, FTAN President Dr. Aliyu Badaki has established a five-member Dispute Resolution Committee comprised of seasoned professionals from the tourism sector, nominated by the FTAN National Executive Council.

The committee’s mandate includes investigating the root causes of the conflict between the two leadership factions, hearing submissions from all relevant stakeholders, reviewing ATPN’s legal and constitutional provisions concerning the dispute, facilitating mediation between the opposing parties, and recommending a fair resolution along with preventative measures for future disputes.

The committee members are Alh. Mohamed Sheriff, Mrs. Uloma Kemabonta, Dr. Emmanuel Jeminiwa, Mr. Precious Okonji, and Rev. Akindele John.

This initiative follows the recent suspension of Mr. Femi Fadina as President and Mr. Ayo Arokoyo as Acting President by ATPN’s Governing Council, which cited Fadina’s alleged violations of the association’s constitution.

In response, Fadina has declared that the suspension is unconstitutional, insisting he remains the legitimately elected president.

He emphasised the importance of adhering to due process and constitutional order within the organisation, warning against creating a legacy of illegality for future tourism practitioners. Fadina reiterated his authority, claiming that any leadership claims opposing his are unauthorised and lacking legitimacy.

In the ever-evolving landscape of leadership, few women stand out as distinctly as Chief (Mrs.) Olayinka Adesunbo Latinwo, the revered Iya Oba of Isin Kingdom. Her journey from Lagos Island to the corridors of influence in the United States of America is a story defined by resilience, excellence, and compassion for humanity.

Born on October 20, 1970, at the Lagos Island Maternity Hospital, Lagos, to Chief Adegboyega Alade and Mrs. Atinuke Alade, Olayinka’s early life reflected the values of hard work and service that would later shape her life’s purpose. She began her education at Ebire Nursing and Primary School between 1976 and 1981, before proceeding to Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, where she studied Accountancy from 1987 to 1991.

Her quest for knowledge and global exposure took her to the United States of America, where she enrolled at Excelsiors University, earning a Nursing Degree that set the foundation for a distinguished career in healthcare.

A serial entrepreneur and visionary leader, Chief Mrs. Latinwo is the Chief Executive Officer of several reputable healthcare organizations in the United States, including Reliant Home Healthcare Services, Reliant Hospice Inc., Sympathy Home Healthcare, and TLC Healthcare.

Over the past 25 years, she has built a sterling reputation for excellence and innovation in healthcare service delivery, providing quality care and creating employment opportunities within and beyond the United States.

Her leadership reflects an unwavering commitment to professionalism, empathy, and community-centered service.

Beyond the boardroom, Chief Mrs. Latinwo is driven by an uncommon passion for humanity. Through her non-profit organisation, the Shamrock Foundation Incorporation, she has provided hope and support to the less privileged and homeless in Los Angeles, California.

The foundation’s mission goes beyond charity, it creates a sustainable system of refuge and reintegration. Through food distribution, clothing drives, medical aid, and the provision of safe shelters, Shamrock Foundation continues to restore dignity and purpose to countless lives, particularly the elderly and disenfranchised.

Chief Mrs. Latinwo’s entrepreneurial influence also spans real estate, finance, and agriculture.

She serves as Chairman/CEO of Evergreen Estate, a thriving real estate company based in California, United States.

In addition, she is the Chairman/CEO of multiple companies, including Capsend Finance Services, Capsend BDC, Shamrock Agro, and Riley Homes and Properties, reflecting her versatility and strategic leadership across diverse sectors.

Chief (Mrs.) Olayinka Adesunbo Latinwo’s story is that of a woman who defied limits to create a life of impact and significance. From her humble beginnings in Lagos to becoming a respected healthcare executive, philanthropist, and community leader in the United States, her achievements stand as a beacon of inspiration.

Her journey underscores a timeless truth, that with vision, compassion, and commitment, one can touch lives, build legacies, and uplift communities. Indeed, Chief (Mrs.) Olayinka Latinwo’s rising profile is not just a personal success story, it is a celebration of excellence, leadership, and humanity.

Chief (Mrs.) Latinwo is married to Engineer Olanrewaju Latinwo, and the union is blessed with three children and a grandchild, a testament to her belief in strong family values even amid a demanding professional life.

At the prestigious ‘Touchlines of Fortitude II’ group exhibition, held at Teddington, London, visual artist Hillary Emetuche emerged as the winner of the Best Drawing Award, earning recognition for his remarkable charcoal portrait titled ‘Drawing of Ezinne.’

The ‘Touchlines of Fortitude’ series – now in its second edition – is a celebrated open-call exhibition platform that showcases exceptional artistic talent across diverse media, including painting, ceramics, sculpture, photography, and yarn art. The 2025 edition was curated and judged by a distinguished panel comprising leading art critic Tabish Khan, award-winning figurative artist Karen Turner, curator Agnieszka Lokaj, and The Beach Gallery owner Mark Vellacott. Written works were additionally reviewed by renowned sports journalist Alison Kervin OBE, Dr Anna Johnson, and Millie Walton.

Hillary Emetuche’s winning piece, ‘Drawing of Ezinne,’ captivated the judges and audience alike with its expressive depth and technical mastery.

Executed in charcoal, the work was praised for its emotive realism, nuanced tonal balance, and the artist’s ability to ‘capture both physical and psychological presence with quiet intensity.’

Speaking after the announcement, Emetuche said,

‘Drawing of Ezinne was inspired by my sister, Ezinne who has a kind heart and reflects the gracious feminine heart. Her name, meaning good mother or virtuous mother, solidifies my quest to express her in work.’

The ‘Touchlines of Fortitude II’ exhibition, organised by Fortitude Touchlines in partnership with The Beach Gallery, brought together some of the UK’s most promising and established creatives for an evening of art, dialogue, and cultural exchange.

The private preview held on 24 September 2025 drew art professionals, critics, collectors, and enthusiasts from across London’s creative community.

For Emetuche, this accolade adds to a growing record of artistic distinction.

The London-based Nigerian artist held his debut solo exhibition at the Dugdale Arts Centre, Enfield Art Circle, and other showcases, where his portraits have been celebrated for their storytelling power and technical precision.

His win at ‘Touchlines of Fortitude II’ underscores his rising influence within the UK’s visual arts scene.

Executive Secretary, Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, has decried the secrecy in the energy sector, pointing out that the global energy transition towards cleaner fuels, gas optimisation, and renewable energy requires openness, responsibility, and innovation at every stage of the value chain.

According to him,the era of secrecy in resource governance is over, adding that at NEITI, the philosophy is clear and uncompromising: ‘Data builds trust, and trust drives investment.’

He stressed that the path to Nigeria’s sustainable energy future rests on three interlocking values of transparency, accountability, and sustainability.

Orji disclosed this during the NAEC Energy Conference 2025, themed: Nigeria’s Energy Future: Exploring Opportunities and Addressing Risks for Sustainable Growth,’ held in Lago.

He argued that transparency was not a bureaucratic exercise, but an economic imperative that attracts capital, technology, and partnerships.

‘As Nigeria positions gas as its transition fuel and renewable energy as its future, governance must keep pace with innovation. Our energy future must rest on verifiable data, open contracts, measurable emissions, and accountable institutions,’ he said.

According to him, NEITI 2021-2022 Oil and Gas Industry Reports revealed that Nigeria earned $23.04 billion in 2021 and $23.05 billion in 2022 from the sector.

He added the organization also identified outstanding remittances of N1.5 trillion owed to the federation by some companies and government agencies, saying there were funds that could significantly support energy infrastructure, education, and healthcare if recovered.

‘Our findings also exposed the devastating cost of poor accountability. In 2022 alone, Nigeria lost 13.5 million barrels of crude oil valued at $3.3 billion to theft and sabotage. That is revenue that could have financed a full year of the federal health budget or provided energy access to millions of households,’ he said

According to him, these losses were not just economic, but represented broken trust, institutional weaknesses, and missed opportunities for national progress.

‘This is precisely why transparency and accountability are not optional. They are existential,’ he said.

For this purpose, he disclosed that NEITI evolved from an auditing agency to a governance reform institution.

‘We have institutionalised regular audits of oil, gas, and solid minerals sectors, tracking production, payments, and remediation; developed Nigeria’s Beneficial Ownership Register, unmasking the true owners of over 4,800 extractive assets, and helping government combat corruption and illicit financial flows; launched the NEITI Data Centre – a national open-data infrastructure that provides real-time public access to industry information.

Others are strengthening partnerships with NUPRC, NMDPRA, and NCDMB to promote transparency in licensing, metering, and host community trust management; and introduced the Just Energy Transition and Climate Accountability Framework, to ensure that Nigeria’s shift to cleaner energy is transparent, inclusive, and fair.

‘These are not ceremonial milestones. They are practical governance instruments designed to make transparency the DNA of Nigeria’s extractive sector.

‘NEITI envisions a sector where every dollar is traceable, every contract is public, every decision is transparent, and every Nigerian citizen can see how natural resources translate into national prosperity,’ orji said, adding that the organization is committed to ensuring that every barrel produced, every cubic foot of gas commercialised, and every kobo earned contributes to national development are in full public view.

The ancient city of Ile-Ife welcomed the world to the grand finale of the 2025 Olojo Festival on Saturday, September 27. Recognized as one of the most sacred celebrations in Yoruba land, this year’s edition was elevated by the presence of Seaman’s Schnapps – Nigeria’s leading original prayer drink – which proudly served as the official beverage for libations and prayers.

Earlier, His Imperial Majesty, Oonirisa Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), received the Seaman’s Schnapps team ahead of his sacred seclusion and expressed gratitude for the brand’s consistent support of the festival and its role in promoting Yoruba heritage.

He stated, ‘Seaman’s Schnapps has stood with us year after year, demonstrating a dedication to this festival and the upliftment of our culture.

‘Such loyalty is worthy of honor and strengthens our resolve to preserve these traditions for generations to come. We deeply appreciate this commitment,’ he said.

The festival reached its spiritual peak as the Oonirisa emerged from seclusion in a symbolic procession. With chants echoing through the city, Seaman’s Schnapps was poured in prayers and blessings, reinforcing its place in Yoruba spirituality and tradition.

At the Seaman’s experience stands, elegantly branded hostesses welcomed guests while traditional chanters and ewi performers filled the air with rhythm and reverence. Visitors enjoyed Seaman’s Schnapps, creating a rich fusion of flavor, culture, and celebration.

Mr. Gbemileke Lawal, Marketing Manager of Nigeria Distilleries Limited, stated, ‘The Olojo Festival is a timeless celebration of Yoruba identity and heritage. Seaman’s Schnapps is proud to serve as the prayer drink at its center. Our role is to honor tradition and strengthen the link between the past and present.’

Mrs. Nnenna Uche-Onyenacho, Senior Brand Manager of Seaman’s Schnapps, added, ‘Seaman’s Schnapps is more than a drink – it is a cultural icon. Seeing people connect with our brand during this sacred festival reinforces our responsibility to protect heritage while creating meaningful experiences.’

The 2025 Olojo Festival brought together Yoruba monarchs, dignitaries, cultural enthusiasts, and visitors from around the world. Through every libation, chant, and raised glass, Seaman’s Schnapps reaffirmed its role as the drink of honor, prayer, and blessings – a true bridge between the ancestors and today’s generation.

THE Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Mr. Thompson Oludare Sunday, has called for enhanced collaboration between the Corporation and the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) in addressing emerging risks and challenges within Nigeria’s banking sector.

The MD/CE made the call during a courtesy visit by the President/Chairman of Council of the CIBN, Prof. Pius Deji Olanrewaju, and members of his executive team to the NDIC Head Office, Abuja. The NDIC Chief Executive emphasized the need for stronger partnership between both institutions in critical areas such as digital banking, cyber-security, fraud and forgery prevention, and sound risk management.

A statement signed by Hawwau Gambo Head, Communication and Public Affairs Department of NDIC noted that Mr. Sunday said that while the phenomena of the emerging issues are on the rise, regulators and operators must come together to proffer solutions which help build a stronger financial ecosystem that withstands the vagaries of the innovations to deliver value to the economy.

While commending the growth of the CIBN as a professional body over the years, and its positive impact on the banking system, the NDIC Boss further called on the Institute to take critical interest in working more closely with regulators to fashion innovative failure resolution strategies that strengthen the overall resilience of the banking sector.

The NDIC boss reiterated the Corporation’s commitment to supporting professional institutions such as the CIBN in developing and implementing programs that foster innovation while maintaining sound risk management frameworks and financial system stability.

President/Chairman of Council of the CIBN, Prof. Pius Deji Olanrewaju congratulated Mr. Sunday on his appointment as Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Corporation. He expressed confidence in the capacity of the MD/CE to uphold the trust reposed in the Corporation by the public based on his sound track record and expertise.

He particularly commended the NDIC for its notable milestone achievements, highlighting the upward review of deposit insurance coverage aimed at strengthening public confidence in the banking system; the deployment of technology to expedite the reimbursement of depositors of the failed Heritage Bank; and the commencement of liquidation dividend payments within one year of the bank’s closure. Prof. Olanrewaju noted that these accomplishments have significantly enhanced depositor and investor confidence in the financial system.

The CIBN President also expressed appreciation to the NDIC for its invaluable contributions and active role as a member of the Institute’s Governing Council, noting that its participation has greatly strengthened the Council’s oversight functions, policy direction, and ethical leadership.

Reform driven citizens under the umbrella of the Citizens Connect Conference has praised President Bola Tinubu’s achievements in the oil and gas sector.

Speaking at the 1st Citizens Connect Conference in Lagos, the Convener of the group, Charles Abakpa Onoja, said the President has restored national confidence in the oil and gas sector.

In his opening address, Onoja said: ‘Let us begin where much of Nigeria’s story has always been written-our oil and gas sector. For decades, this sector symbolised both our promise and our pain.

‘We have heard stories of corruption, inefficiency, and missed opportunities. Yet today, there is a new story unfolding – a story of reform, renewal, and restoration.

‘Under the administration of President Bola Tinubu, and through the diligent leadership of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) led by Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, the sector has been reborn on the firm foundation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). What Nigerians are witnessing today is not luck; it is leadership – structured, deliberate, and data-driven.

‘In just two years, NUPRC has demonstrated what happens when political will meets professional excellence. The Commission has generated over ?12.25 trillion in revenue for the federation within this short span – an unprecedented achievement reflecting the efficiency of new monitoring systems and enforcement mechanisms.’

Participants at the conference came together from the six south Western states came together to examine the reforms being championed by the President and critical agencies in the Oil and Gas sector.

The guest speaker, Prof Yemi Oke SAN and other speakers took turn to praise the upstream petroleum sector in the implementation of the PIA. They all agreed that Mr. President is working hard for the nation.

Prof Oke outlined the gains of subsidy removal and said that the policy has led to 200 per cent increase in allocations to states and local governments, road projects, hospital projects, power sector development, student loan scheme and increment in NYSC allowances.

He listed the multiplier effects of oil subsidy removal to transition to net exporter of petroleum resources, private refineries investment, gas development projects, LPG and CNG revolution, foreign exchange savings, stability and gradual strengthening of the Naira and fertilizer production.

He said: ‘Dormant oil blocks are returning to productivity, production reporting is now electronic, and field development plans are strictly monitored for compliance. The era of discretionary approvals and rent-seeking is fading away, replaced by process, predictability, and performance.

‘Equally important is the focus on gas-the transition fuel for Nigeria’s economic future. Under the Gas Flare Commercialisation Programme, investors are now turning environmental liability into economic opportunity. We are reducing waste, protecting our planet, and creating jobs.

‘These are not abstract policy shifts. They are the building blocks of a more transparent and sustainable energy future-and they are happening under President Tinubu’s watch.’

According to Oke, a reform is only meaningful when it touches lives. He said the Petroleum Industry Act did not only restructure institutions; it redefined relationships-between government, industry, and the communities that bear the weight of extraction. He said under Komolafe’s leadership, the Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs) have become the bridge between promise and delivery.

‘More than ?358 billion has so far been remitted to these trusts, funding over 500 community projects in education, healthcare, road construction, and youth empowerment across oil-producing regions. For the first time, host communities are not treated as afterthoughts-they are partners. The principle is simple: those who live with the consequences of resource extraction must share in its benefits.

‘This is what President Tinubu envisioned when he speaks about Renewed Hope. Hope that is not poetic but practical; hope that builds hospitals, powers schools, and brings opportunity to communities long forgotten.

‘Transparency has also become a defining feature of the new order. NUPRC’s electronic reporting platforms allow real-time production tracking and cargo declaration-cutting out leakages that once drained our national purse. The days of guessing how much crude Nigeria produces are gone. The data now speaks for itself.

‘The Commission has also introduced robust systems for measuring flare gas, tracking royalty payments, and enforcing environmental standards. This is governance at work-silent, methodical, transformative.

‘The world has noticed. International rating agencies and investors now describe Nigeria’s oil regulatory framework as more predictable and investor-friendly than at any time in the past decade. The reforms have positioned our country as an emerging energy investment hub on the continent.

‘These achievements did not emerge in a vacuum. They are the product of a reform-minded administration that prioritised competence over complacency. But every reform is a journey, not an event-and journeys can be interrupted.

‘The truth is that what we have gained in the last two years can easily be lost if the focus shifts from reform to rhetoric. Nigeria cannot afford to go backwards. We must protect this momentum by ensuring that the same political will that birthed these achievements is renewed in 2027.’