Category: Daily Trust

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has said Nigeria will demand a higher oil production quota at the next meeting of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) scheduled for November.

Lokpobiri disclosed this in a special bulletin published by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), where he reviewed Nigeria’s upstream oil performance four years after the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act and the establishment of the Commission.

He said the country’s current quota, pegged at about 1.5 million barrels per day, no longer reflects its true production capacity.

According to him, the upcoming OPEC meeting provides an opportunity for Nigeria to make a strong case for an upward review to at least two million barrels per day.

‘The OPEC quota is subject to periodic review, and by November, when we attend the annual meeting, we will certainly be making a case for a higher quota for Nigeria. And I believe that there’s no better time than now for us to make a strong case for Nigeria’s quota to be reviewed to two million and above,’ the minister said.

Daily Trust reports that Nigeria’s crude oil production has recorded significant increase in recent times, hovering around 1.7 mbpd.

But this is still short of the 2.2m barrel target by the federal government in the 2025 budget oil production parameter.

But the Minister expressed confidence that Nigeria’s improved output levels, strengthened infrastructure, and renewed investments in the upstream sector would support the country’s case for an increase.

Lokpobiri said the sustained recovery in production, improved regulatory environment, and fresh inflow of investment into the oil and gas sector have positioned Nigeria to make a strong case for a higher OPEC quota.

‘When I became Minister, the OPEC quota for Nigeria was 1.5 million barrels per day because our production then was below that.

‘Today, we are producing around 1.7 million barrels daily, including condensates, and we have the capacity to produce above two million barrels per day. It is time to review the quota upward,’ he noted.

He explained that Nigeria’s actual output includes condensates, a lighter, higher-value form of crude not covered by OPEC’s production limits, adding that this gives the country flexibility without violating its quota.

‘Condensate is not counted in OPEC production, yet it sells at a higher price,’ he said. ‘If we do 1.5 million barrels of crude and one million barrels of condensate, we are still within the rules. And because we have capacity, we are also going to show that we have capacity. Right now, there is something going on to assess our capacity, and that assessment is currently going on. And we believe that we will show the world that we have the capacity to produce more than two million barrels.’

The minister added that verifiable production data, domestic crude supply obligations under the PIA, and evidence of renewed capacity would form part of Nigeria’s case at the OPEC meeting.

Lokpobiri attributed the production rebound to improved security and better pipeline integrity across the Niger Delta.

‘Before now, companies were scared to produce because crude pumped into pipelines hardly got to the terminal,’ he said. ‘Today, if you put in crude, you get 100 per cent at the export point.’

He said years of pipeline vandalism and oil theft had crippled Nigeria’s production capacity, but recent interventions by security agencies and community partnerships had reversed the trend.

According to him, Nigeria’s rig count, a key indicator of upstream activity, has jumped from about 14 to nearly 50 and is expected to rise further by year-end.

Lokpobiri also hailed the recent wave of divestments by oil majors such as Shell, TotalEnergies, and ExxonMobil, saying they had opened opportunities for capable Nigerian operators.

.Upstream regulations restoring investors’ confidence

Speaking in the same vein during a visit by the NUPRC management as part of the four-year anniversary, the Minister stated that the narrative in the upstream oil and gas sector is restoring investors’ confidence in the petroleum industry.

He stated that the increase in rig count shows the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), 2021, has revived interest in Nigeria.

In a statement by the NUPRC’s Head, Media and Strategic Communications, Eniola Akinkuotu, Lokpobiri commended the Chief Executive of NUPRC, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, for outstanding leadership and effective delivery of his mandate as the commission marks its fourth anniversary.

Lokpobiri said, ‘Let me take the opportunity to congratulate you (Komolafe) and members of the team, for an excellent job over the last four years. The NUPRC is just four years old, but it looks like a 50-year-old. I don’t flatter myself when I talk. A four-year-old child will be in kindergarten, but the NUPRC’s achievements are like a 50-year-old. Today, the confidence is back and investments are coming.’

On his part, Komolafe described the anniversary as a special moment in the history of the commission and added that the achievements recorded are a product of the support of President Bola Tinubu, as well as support from the Minister of State for Oil.

The NUPRC boss thanked the minister for his leadership and support in the regulatory activities of the Commission. He reiterated that as part of its mandate, the Commission has functioned as a business enabler and opportunity marketer in the upstream sector.

.How feasible is a 2m quota?

While Nigeria has continued to meet its OPEC quota of 1.5m barrels per day of crude oil, there are doubts over the 2m bpd amidst uncertainty and volatility in the market.

Daily Trust reports that Nigeria failed to meet the 2025 production target of 2.2m bpd as projected in the 2025 budget presented by President Bola Tinubu as revised last year.

While Nigeria has continued to meet its OPEC quota which it has achieved consistently this year, the organisation may be forced to slash the quota again if the country fails to achieve the quota.

Experts say the current quota is within reasonable production limits and there are doubts if the country can cope with an additional 500,000 bpd quota.

An industry player told our correspondent the move for upward review of the quota ‘may be to satisfy supplies to the Dangote Refinery and still have enough to sell.’

‘Question is can we reach that level of production,’ the expert added.

‘It’s worth pursuing’

However, Dr. Garuba Dauda, an oil and gas expert said, ‘For me, it is worth pursuing. What we should be asking ourselves is: are we able to sustain what we are asking for? A closer review shows that there has been relative stability in the Niger Delta.

‘There have also been less reported cases of oil theft, although it may also have been driven underground.

‘However, there are good reasons to get OPEC to effect an upward review of Nigeria’s oil production quota to enable the country reflate the economy. So much belt-tightening has happened to the citizens in the name of reforms since 2023.

‘The people need to recover from the multi-dimensional devastations that have befallen them. Increased oil production quota may just be another opportunity to raise more money to be invested in the economy, while hoping that the common thieves in government will let it grow.’

.Nigeria on track to end gas flaring by 2030 – NUPRC

Meanwhile, the NUPRC has stated that the reduction of gas flaring will ensure the country meets its target of utilising all petroleum products produced by 2030.

Speaking during the International Conference on Hydrocarbon Science and Technology organised by the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) the of NUPRC, the CE of NUPRC, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe said Nigeria’s hydrocarbon future should not merely be about how many barrels of oil produced or how much gas can be monetised.

Komolafe who was represented by the commission’s Executive Commissioner, Corporate Services and Administration, Dr. Kelechi Onyekachi Ofoegbu, said it should be on how to govern the resources in ways that build trust, attract sustainable investment, uplift the people, safeguard the environment, and secure our rightful place in the global shift toward sustainable energy.

He added that across flare sites in Nigeria, gas that once burned wastefully into the sky is now being positioned for full utilisation to power homes, drive small industries, and provide clean cooking energy for millions.

‘Through the NUPRC’s flare gas commercialisation initiatives, the nation is making steady progress toward the Federal Government’s goal of achieving complete flare-out by 2030,’ he added.

He added that despite Africa having over 125 billion barrels of proven oil reserves and more than 620 trillion cubic feet of gas and Nigeria bestowed with.37.28 billion barrels of oil and 210.54 trillion cubic feet of gas, yet more than 600 million people lack access to electricity.

‘Why this contradiction? Obviously, it is not geology that failed us. It is governance, or rather, the lack of it. For decades, the promise of Africa’s vast resource wealth has been eroded by weak institutions, opaque practices, and missed opportunities.’

He however said a new dawn has emerged under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as Nigeria is charting a new course; one firmly anchored on integrity, transparency, and accountability.

‘This renewed national vision of govemance built on trust, transparency and stewardship found its clearest expression in a defining moment for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry: the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act in 2021.’

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum, Dr. Emeka Vitalis Obi, said Nigeria remains an oil- and gas-rich nation with considerable opportunity to further leverage its hydrocarbon endowment for sustainable socio-economic development.

‘Under the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, the Government of the Federation reaffirmed the sovereign ownership of petroleum resources and set out to restructure the legal, regulatory, fiscal and institutional framework of the petroleum sector to make it more efficient, transparent and investment-friendly.’

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Fire Service has said 18 residents lost their lives in different fire incidents recorded in the territory between January and September, 2026.

The Service also said it saved 69 human lives and rescued property worth over N14.4 billion from 338 incidents it was called for between the period.

This data is contained in a Fire and Rescue Statistics record made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) by the spokesperson of the FCT Fire Service, Ibrahim Mohammad, on Wednesday in Abuja.

Mohammad noted that property worth N6.07 billion were also lost within the nine-month period.

He provided a month-by-month breakdown of lives saved to include 30 lives in March, 22 in June, 13 in April and four in July.

He added that no life was loss in January, February, May, August, and September.

The record further indicates that March and April recorded the only fatalities, with 10 and 8 persons lost, respectively, while the other seven months had no lives lost.

Mohammad stated that the Service received a total of 338 fire calls during the period.

The month with the highest number of calls was February (64), followed by January (59), April (51), June (35), March (33), May (31), July (24), August (21), and September (20).

‘We also recorded a total of nine rescue calls within the period,’ he concluded. (NAN)

Leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from North, including governors from the region, have unanimously endorsed former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki, as their consensus candidate for the position of national chairman ahead of the party’s November convention.

Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, disclosed this after a meeting of Northern PDP leaders held on Wednesday night in Abuja.

He, however, clarified that the endorsement does not preclude other aspirants from contesting, noting that the party’s constitution guarantees every member the right to test their popularity at the convention.

Despite the Federal High Court in Abuja scheduling October 31 to rule on whether the convention should proceed, the party has continued its preparations. Present at the meeting were Governors Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), and Dauda Lawal (Zamfara). Others included former Senate President Bukola Saraki, former Governors Ahmed Makarfi (Kaduna) and Ibrahim Shekarau (Kano), Professor Jerry Gana, and members of the National Working Committee from the North led by Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum.

Governor Fintiri said the endorsement aims to ensure a smooth and successful convention, adding that other party positions would be discussed at the zonal level.

The PDP National Executive Committee (NEC) has scheduled the convention for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The Nigerian Army has said that the late Commanding Officer 202 Battalion, Lt Col Abdullaahi Saidu Paiko, and other gallant soldiers had decisively dealt with the Boko Haram insurgents before falling in the line of duty.

Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North East ‘Operation Hadin Kai’, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, stated this when he paid the last respect to the gallant officer and soldiers in Maiduguri, on Wednesday.

He said the deceased served the nation with unwavering dedication and honour, but were all called to eternal rest, on 17 October 2025.

‘They fought with valour, side by side with their commander, upholding the finest traditions of the Nigerian Army. Their collective sacrifice will never be forgotten. They exemplified what it means to serve with honour. Men who, in the face of danger, stood firm and refused to yield, even unto death.

‘Today, we are gathered with a heavy heart, to pay our last respect to one of our own, a gallant senior officer, a brilliant mind and a patriot, Lt Col Abdullaahi Saidu Paiko, the Commanding Officer 202 Battalion, and other gallant soldiers who served the nation with unwavering dedication and honour, but all called to eternal rest on 17 October 2025 after a fierce battle with terrorists where they decisively dealt with the insurgents before falling in the line of duty for country.

‘We cannot question the will of the Almighty God. Their passing is not only a great loss to their families and loved ones, but also to the AFN, Nigerian Army, the Theatre, and indeed the entire nation they so selflessly served with unwavering dedication.

‘Before the late Lieutenant Colonel Abdullahi Saidu Paiko’s demise, he was a courageous commander, a dedicated leader, and a selfless patriot. He led from the front and inspired his troops with exceptional bravery and professionalism. His leadership at 202 Battalion was marked by discipline, commitment, and empathy,’ he said.

‘He embodied the very best values of the military profession, discipline, respect, duty and service. His operational acumen, calm under pressure, and tactical foresight stood out in numerous engagements against the insurgents,’ he said.

He sympathised with families of all the deceased, stressing that their loved ones did not die in vain.

The sorrowful ceremony held at Maimalari Cantonment in Maiduguri, was attended by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Hon. Bukar Tijjani, who represented Governor Babagana Zulum.

Thailand is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of ancient culture, stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and pristine beaches. If you’re planning your first resa till Thailand, this ultimate travel itinerary will guide you through the must-visit places and unforgettable experiences the country has to offer.

Bangkok: The Vibrant Capital

Start your journey in Bangkok, the bustling capital city known for its glittering temples, bustling street markets, and delectable street food. Visit the Grand Palace, a magnificent complex that showcases Thai architecture and houses the revered Emerald Buddha. Explore the lively Chatuchak Weekend Market, where you can find everything from souvenirs to local delicacies.

Chiang Mai: The Cultural Gem of the North

Next, head north to Chiang Mai, a charming city surrounded by lush mountains. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage by visiting ancient temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh. Take a cooking class to learn the secrets of Thai cuisine or embark on a jungle trek to encounter elephants and hill tribes.

Phuket: The Island Paradise

No trip to Thailand is complete without experiencing its stunning beaches. Phuket, the largest island in the country, offers a perfect blend of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lively nightlife. Relax on the famous Patong Beach, explore the historic Old Town, or take a boat tour to the nearby Phi Phi Islands for snorkeling and diving adventures.

Ayutthaya: The Ancient Capital

Step back in time and visit Ayutthaya, the former capital of Siam. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to impressive ruins of ancient temples and palaces. Explore the iconic Wat Mahathat, where a Buddha head is entwined in the roots of a tree, and marvel at the towering prangs of Wat Chaiwatthanaram.

Krabi: The Limestone Cliffs and Emerald Waters

Head south to Krabi, a picturesque province known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and idyllic islands. Take a longtail boat to the famous Railay Beach, accessible only by sea, and enjoy rock climbing, kayaking, or simply relaxing on the pristine shores. Visit the Tiger Cave Temple, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Chiang Rai: The Serene North

For a more laid-back experience, venture to Chiang Rai, a serene city in the far north of Thailand. Visit the stunning White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), an unconventional contemporary art exhibit in the form of a Buddhist temple. Explore the Golden Triangle, where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar converge, and learn about the region’s infamous opium trade history.

Koh Samui: The Tropical Getaway your journey on the tropical island of Koh Samui, known for its palm-fringed beaches, luxurious resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Relax on the popular Chaweng Beach, visit the Big Buddha temple, or take a day trip to the nearby Ang Thong National Marine Park for snorkeling and kayaking among the stunning archipelago.

Thailand offers an endless array of experiences that cater to every traveler’s taste. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the serene beaches of the south, this ultimate itinerary covers the highlights of the country. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, natural beauty, or simply a relaxing getaway, Thailand has it all. Start planning your resa till Thailand today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Land of Smiles.

Former governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, has warned graduating students of the University of Ilorin against the lure of fast and easy wealth.

He said such pursuits often come with grave consequences.

He disclosed this at the 40th Convocation Lecture of the university with the topic ‘The Gen Z Playbook: Navigating Work and the Real World’.

Fashola told the 11,886 graduating students that discipline, hard work, and integrity remain the only sustainable pathways to success in life.

The former Minister of Works, Housing and Power said the younger generation must resist the growing social pressure to acquire wealth through dishonest means.

He urged them to avoid relationships or ventures that flaunt unexplained riches, stressing that no shortcut to wealth comes without a price.

‘There is no easy and fast money anywhere in the world that does not have consequences,’ he warned.

Fashola advised the students to face life’s challenges with patience and embrace the values of diligence and prudence.

‘Work very hard because your life depends on it. Respect the spaces of your hosts, do not abuse their hospitality, and make friends with your colleagues during your NYSC exercise,’ he added.

He urged them to embrace their posting during the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme, describing it as an opportunity to learn from Nigeria’s cultural and social diversity.

According to him, ‘You will meet different foods, cultures, and traditions. Embrace them. I still maintain friendships I made during my youth service 38 years ago’.

Fashola further cautioned the graduands to stay humble after the service year and prepare for life without the monthly allowance.

‘After service, there will be no more stipends. Stay close to your family because they will help you rise when you are down,’ he said.

He encouraged them to cultivate the habit of saving at every stage of life, noting that financial discipline is key to stability.

He advised that to ‘Always find opportunities in difficulties and never engage in acts they will later be ashamed of.

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Mr. Abiodun Aluko, in his remarks, appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to support indigent students.

He also thanked the President for approving the payment of the N50 billion academic earned allowance, describing it as a resolution of a long-standing agitation since 2022.

In his report, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Wahab Egbewole (SAN), announced that ten of the university’s academic staff were recently ranked among the most cited scholars on Google Scholar.

He added that the university secured full accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC) for 36 of its 37 programmes, while one received interim accreditation.

Egbewole disclosed that a total of 11,868 students graduated this year, including 316 with First Class, 4,120 with Second Class (Upper Division), 5,939 with Second Class (Lower Division), 1,078 with Third Class, and eleven with Pass.

The convocation also produced 175 MB;BS graduates, 94 in Nursing, 40 in Optometry, 36 in Veterinary Medicine, 64 in Physiotherapy, and 13 with Diplomas.

He further stated that 1,520 higher degrees would be awarded, comprising 182 Postgraduate Diplomas, 916 Master’s degrees, 188 Professional Master’s, and 234 PhDs.

A former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Victor Ochei, who is running for the presidency of the Nigerian Tennis Federation (NTF) has been tipped to clinch the top position.

Only recently, the National Sports Commission (NSC) nominated Ochei as the Sponsorship/Philanthropist representative on the board of the federation.

Elections into most of the sports federations under the supervision of the NSC are billed to be held on Saturday, October 25, in Abuja.

While Ochei who has sponsored the Wheelchair Tennis Championship in Nigeria for so many years is tipped for the presidency, the stakeholders are reportedly working hard to get former Nigerian tennis super stars, Nduka Odizor, David Imonitie and Sadiq Abdullahi to join the board.

Speaking on the choice of Ochei, a leading tennis stakeholder, Caleb Tsav, said it is important for tennis to get it right this term to put the federation on the path of growth.

‘The question we are asking every contestant is ‘what have you done for tennis to qualify you for leadership on the board?’

‘It is very important because our apathy towards the elections in the past brought tennis to where it is now.

‘Ochei has faithfully and diligently committed about N200 million in sponsoring the yearly Davnotch Open Tennis Championship for half a decade (2021-2025),’ he said.

Tsav also listed the candidate’s contributions to other sports to include the yearly sponsorship of Onicha-Olona Unity Cup Tournament, and the construction of Donald Ochei mini-stadium in his hometown Onicha-Olona in Aniocha North LGA, Delta State.

Tsav concluded by saying that consideration for election into sporting federations must be based on candidates’ in-depth knowledge and avowed affinity to the sport.

The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the $460 million Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) project in Abuja, following rising insecurity in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) despite the huge investment.

The resolution followed a motion of urgent national importance moved on Tuesday by Hon. Amobi Godwin Ogah (Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency, Abia State), who expressed concern that the multi-million-dollar project, funded through a Chinese loan, has failed to deliver the intended security outcomes.

Ogah recalled that in 2010, the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan initiated the CCTV installation across strategic parts of Abuja to enhance surveillance, deter crime, and improve public safety.

He said the project was financed through a $460 million loan from the China EXIM Bank as part of a $600 million financing portfolio, with a 10-year grace period and another 10 years for repayment.

He noted that the contract for the project was awarded to ZTE Communications, a Chinese firm, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding led by the then Minister of Finance, Dr. Olusegun Aganga, in Beijing.

However, the lawmaker lamented that despite the huge financial commitment and years of repayment obligations, the CCTV infrastructure has remained largely non-functional.

‘Rather than improving security, the situation in Abuja has deteriorated, with frequent reports of killings, abductions, and other violent crimes,’ Ogah stated.

‘It is disturbing that Nigeria continues to service this loan for a project that has yielded no tangible results, leaving the nation in a lose-lose situation,’ he added.

Adopting the motion, the House resolved to mandate an ad hoc committee to investigate the implementation of the $460 million CCTV contract, determine the status of the project, and identify reasons for its failure to deliver on its objectives.

The committee is expected to report back to the House for further legislative action.

Detained leader of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has sacked all members of his legal team.

At the resumed hearing of the matter on Thursday, Kanu told the court that he was prepared to defend himself.

Based on his position, all the senior advocates in the team led by Kanu Agabi (SAN), announced their decision to withdraw their continuous participation in the case.

Kanu then proceeded to address the court from the dock, challenging the court’s jurisdiction to continue to try him.

Ahead of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention scheduled for November, former presidential candidate and party chieftain Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim has embarked on a reconciliation mission across the North Central zone aimed at strengthening the party’s unity.

Hashim has so far met with several key party leaders, including former Senate President Bukola Saraki and former Minister of Sports Damishi Sango, in what observers describe as a strategic effort to rebuild trust and cohesion within the PDP.

On his meeting with the former Senate President, Gbenga-Hashim said, ‘We agreed to work together for the greater interest of Nigeria, to rebuild the PDP in the North Central zone and the nation at large.’

Political observers see Hashim’s renewed engagements as part of a broader move to consolidate the PDP’s North Central bloc, which has long been regarded as the moral conscience of the party. With his outreach, Gbenga-Hashim, who has indicated interest in running for president on the platform of the PDP, is believed to be growing his profile as a unifying voice and consensus builder within opposition politics.