Category: Daily Trust

Hours after Omoyele Sowore, human rights activist and former Presidential Candidate, led some protesters in parts of Abuja demanding freedom for the detained leader of the outlawed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, the separatist leader agreed to enter his defence.

The detained IPOB leader had last Thursday filed a motion of preliminary objection challenging the jurisdiction of the court to continue with his trial.

He filed the objection the same day a team of medical experts enpanelled by the court to determine his health status, turned in a report that he was medically fit to stand trial.

In a fresh motion he personally filed on Tuesday, October 21, Kanu assured the court that he was prepared to begin his defence ‘pursuant to the order of this honourable court made on the 16th day of October 2015, directing the defendant to commence his defence on the 24th day of October 2025.’

Kanu informed the court, presided by Justice James Omotosho, of his plan to call a total of 23 witnesses divided into two categories.

The first category, he said, would be those he called ‘ordinary but material witnesses’.

He further informed the court that his second category of witnesses would be ‘vital and compellable’ and shall be ‘summoned under Section 232 of the Evidence Act, 2011.’

In the notice Kanu personally signed, the IPOB leader told the court that, in view of the number of witnesses he intends to call, the court should consider granting a 90-day timeframe to enable him conclude his defence.

He told the court that he would ‘testify on his own behalf, providing a sworn account of the facts, denying the allegations, and explaining the political context of his statements and actions.’

Among those Kanu listed as ‘compellable witnesses’ are a former Minister of Defence, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), a former Chief of Army Staff, Gen Tukur Buratai (rtd), as well as Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Hope Uzodinma, Governors of Lagos and Imo States respectively.

He further listed current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Nyesom Nwike, his Works’ counterpart, Dave Umahi, and the immediate past governor of Abia State, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu.

He also listed the immediate past Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, the immediate past Director General of the National Intelligence Agency, NIA, Ahmed Rufai Abubakar, his then-collegue at the State Security Service, SSS, Yusuf Magaji Bichi, and several withnesses whose identities he didn’t reveal.

Kanu, in the notice, promised to ‘provide the sworn statements of all voluntary witnesses to this honourable court, and to notify the prosecution within a reasonable time.’

He assured that ‘no precious time of the honourable court would be delayed,’ stressing, ‘and it would interest the honourable court that and the general public that justice is not only done but manifestly seen to have been done.’

Kanu’s motion offering to open his defence came on the same day a

magistrate court in Abuja ordered the remand of his special counsel, Aloy Ejimakor and 12 others who were among those protesting against Kanu’s continued trial.

The police charged the 13 persons with various offences, including criminal conspiracy, disobedience of a lawful order, inciting disturbance, and disturbance of public peace, contravening sections 152, 114, and 113 of the Penal Code Law.

The 13 defendants named in two separate first information reports (FIRs) are Ejimakor, Kanu’s brother, Emmanuel, Joshua Emmanuel, Wilson Anyalewechi, Okere Kingdom Nnamdi, Clinton Chimeneze, Gabriel Joshua, Isiaka Husseini, Onyekachi Ferdinand, Amadi Prince, Edison Ojisom, Godwill Obioma, and Chima Onuchukwu.

The magistrate, who stood down the case, later ordered that the defendants be remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre and adjourned the case until October 24 for arraignment.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has stated that it generated N4.26tr revenue in the month of September.

This is a decrease from the N4.40trn it generated in August and this is due to the reduction of crude oil the company produced during the month which dropped to 1.61m barrels per day consisting of 1.37m (bpd) of crude oil and 240,000 condensate.

However, its profit after tax increased to N216bn from the N185bn it made in August.

It added that it made statutory payments from January to August to the tune of N10.073tr. while 6.28bn (mmscf/d) natural gas was produced.

‘Production levels during the period were temporarily moderated due to planned maintenance activities including those at NLNG alongside the phased recovery of previously shut-in assets and delays in the commencement of operations at OMLs 71 and 72.’

It added that there is sustained focus on the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano pipeline being directed towards completion of the mainline works with substantial progress being recorded.

On OB3 (River Niger Crossing), it said the implementation of revised execution strategy is underway to ensure delivery within target timelines.

The 113km portion of OB3 Gas Pipeline has been commissioned and flowing circa 300mmscf/d of gas from the following gas producers: *AHL – 250mmscf/d *Platform, Chorus and Xenergi – 50mmscf/d.

.shortfall linked to upstream assets maintenance

Credible industry sources say NNPC Limited has embarked on a series of scheduled maintenance activities across key upstream assets, including facilities linked to the Nigeria LNG (NLNG) network.

These planned interventions, which also coincide with the phased recovery of previously shut-in fields and the onboarding of new assets, are part of a broader strategy to optimize output and enhance infrastructure reliability.

While recent production levels reflect a temporary moderation, industry insiders view this as a necessary recalibration to ensure stronger performance in Q4 and beyond.

‘You don’t build resilience by pushing volume only, you build it by maintaining integrity of your assets,’ one senior regulatory official noted.

With most of the maintenance now nearing completion, stakeholders anticipate a rebound in crude and gas volumes as systems come back online, according to some officials.

The move also underscores NNPC Limited’s proactive approach to asset stewardship and its role in sustaining industry-wide collaboration for production recovery.

Rather than a setback, this phase marks a strategic reset- one that positions Nigeria’s energy sector for more consistent and secure output in the months ahead.

There are concerns that the trend might continue this month following the strike embarked upon by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) over its issue with the Dangote Refinery.

The NNPCL GMD, Engr. Bayo Ojulari had indicated that Nigeria lost 200,000 barrels per day of crude oil to the recent strike action embarked upon by the nation’s oil workers, culminating in a total of over 600,000 barrels during the three-day supply disruption.

The GMD said, ‘I think it was unfortunate that the Dangote and PENGASSAN issue led to strike and whenever there is strike and critical staff manning critical facilities are not available and optimum production is almost impossible. In this particular case, we actually lost significant production of over 200,000 bpd that was deferred.

‘We also have gas production that was deferred, we also have power generation that was impacted by about 1.2 megawatts of power that was affected by that strike,’ he said.

Ojulari added: ‘I’m very pleased that the federal government through the leadership of the Minister of Labour and full support of the National Security Adviser was able to put together everyone into a dialogue and brought everybody to the table and now there has been a communiqué that has been agreed on the way forward.

‘We are all very hopeful that everyone will abide by the communique, since then we have been able to return production back to status quo, there has been one or two areas that we are still trying to catch up with. Overall, we have gradually gone back to restore lost production and the deferment that we have as of today,’ he added.

Ojulari further stated that Nigeria has been able to step up crude oil production with effect from last month, saying 1.68 million barrels per day were produced in September, 2025 while 7 billion cubic feet of gas was also produced per day during the same period.

.Reps move to resolve Dangote Refinery, PENGASSAN face-off

Even as the crisis between The House of Representatives on Tuesday resolved to wade into the recent face-off between the management of Dangote Refinery and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), which recently resulted in a strike action that disrupted operations at the $20 billion refinery in Lagos.

The decision followed a motion of urgent national importance jointly sponsored by Alhassan Ado Doguwa (APC, Kano) and Abdussamad Dasuki (PDP, Sokoto) raised on the floor of the House, where the lawmakers expressed concern over the implications of the industrial action on Nigeria’s oil production, fuel supply, and investment climate.

Doguwa, who moved the motion, noted that the strike, which disrupted activities at the refinery located in the Lekki Free Trade Zone, led to an estimated loss of about 200,000 barrels of crude oil per day over a three-day period.

He added that the shutdown worsened the already fragile fuel supply situation across the country, causing scarcity and long queues at filling stations in several states.

The lawmakers described the Dangote Refinery as a strategic national asset with the potential to ensure energy security, reduce import dependence, generate employment, and conserve foreign exchange.

They further observed that the refinery, being situated within a Free Trade Zone, falls under the regulatory authority of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), in line with Section 18(5) of the NEPZA Act, which stipulates that employment within such zones shall be governed by the rules and regulations of the Authority and not by general labour laws.

The lawmakers expressed concern that labour actions that ignore these legal provisions could discourage future local and foreign investments, create instability in the business environment, and undermine national economic growth.

Consequently, the House resolved to urge the leadership of the House, under Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, to wade into the matter and facilitate a peaceful resolution between PENGASSAN and the management of Dangote Refinery.

.Only dialogue will resolve issues

Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom in Bayelsa State, Nigeria and Chairman of Bayelsa Traditional Rulers’ Council, King Bubaraye Dakolo reiterated that dialogue is imperative to resolve any issue between the management of the refinery and the unions.

According to him, the birth of the refinery sounded a death knell to those he called ‘subsidy racketeers.’

‘The real oil thieves are not in the Niger Delta but the subsidy racketeers,’ he said, adding that efforts must be geared towards making existing refineries to work.

He said, ‘You cannot have a group of people somewhere earning billions every year for literally doing nothing. If for close to 20 years, our refineries have just been there in name and not producing anything and apart from that, they have gulped about N18bn, so what are they there for?

‘So the right thing has to be done, which is what I call the needful. Let those who are responsible do what Nigerians would consider a responsible action.

‘Apart from that, change must come and change has come in Dangote refinery and those who are interested in change would also do something similar somewhere.’

A Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed November 19 for the continuation of the trial of Ansaru leaders, Mahmud Usman and Abubakar Abba, charged with terrorism.

Justice Emeka Nwite adjourned the matter on Tuesday after the counsel to the Department of State Services (DSS) was announced to be absent from the court.

In a letter to the court, the lawyer apologised and requested a new date.

The judge had at the last hearing on September 11 sentenced one of the defendants, Mahmud Usman, to 15 years’ imprisonment for illegal mining.

Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a, who was arraigned by the Department of State Services (DSS) after his recent arrest, pleaded guilty to the charge of illegal mining activities for arms acquisition and kidnapping.

Usman, who hails from Okene Local Government Area of Kogi State, was arrested alongside Abubakar Abba, alias Isah Adam or Mahmud Al-Nigeri from Daura, Katsina State. They were arraigned on 32 charges bordering on terrorism.

Following the plea of guilty to count 10, which is on illegal mining, the trial judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, convicted and sentenced him on the count and ordered his remand in DSS custody pending his trial for 31 other charges preferred against him by the service.

In the charges, the defendants were alleged to have committed acts of terrorism in 2022 by attacking Wawa Cantonment of the Nigerian Army in Kainji, New Bussa, in the Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, which led to several deaths.

The governor of Lagos state, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has stressed that the state remains the epicentre of innovation and creativity.

He stated this during the courtesy visit by the Bodex Social Media Hangout (BSMH) team, led by its Convener, Bodex Hungbo, highlighting the administration’s commitment to keep the state evolving.

He emphasized on the encouragement for homegrown talent making global impact, expressing commitment to support platforms that amplify voices, shape narratives, and promote responsible digital engagement.

The Convener, Bodex Hungbo, appreciated the governor, noting that the digital forward policies and open engagement with citizens have set the state apart as a model for digital governance and media inclusion in Africa.

She described the visit 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.’

‘This year’s event continues the platform’s mission to promote responsible media use, foster digital literacy, and empower social media users across Nigeria,’ she said.

She expressed heartfelt appreciation to the governor for his administration’s continuous support of media innovation and youth focused initiatives in the state.

In addition, the governor 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.

In acknowledgment of his unwavering contributions to digital innovation, inclusivity, and youth empowerment, the governor was officially conferred as the Grand Patron of the Bodex Social Media Hangout Initiative.

The governor accepted the honor, commending the BSMH team for their efforts in bridging the gap between social media and societal progress.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote responsible media use and digital growth across the state.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the extension of the tenure of the Surveyor-General of the Federation, Mr AbuduGaniyu Adebomehin, by two years.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.

Onanuga said the extension, which takes effect from January 5, 2026, was necessitated by the recent transfer of the Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation (OSGOF) to the Presidency.

He said the Surveyor-General has already initiated reforms across critical sectors of geospatial data systems, which the President is keen to see completed.

The President expects Mr Adebomehin to consolidate the reforms within the next two years, focusing on national land management and administration, highways and abutting land infrastructure coordination, reclamation and erosion control programmes, and other related matters of strategic national importance.

Adebomehin was appointed the Surveyor-General of the Federation (SGoF) by the late President Muhammadu Buhari on January 5, 2022.

Travel rewards credit cards have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. By strategically using these cards for your everyday spending, you can accumulate points and miles that can be redeemed for free flights and hotel stays. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and tricks to help you maximize your rewards and turn your daily expenses into unforgettable travel experiences.

Understanding Travel Rewards Credit Cards

Before diving into the strategies, it’s essential to understand how travel rewards credit cards work. These cards typically offer points or miles for every dollar spent on the card. The earned rewards can then be redeemed for travel-related expenses, such as flights, hotel stays, rental cars, and more. Some cards even offer bonus points for spending in specific categories, like dining or travel.

Choosing the Right Card for Your Spending Habits

Not all travel rewards credit cards are created equal. It’s crucial to select a card that aligns with your spending habits and travel goals. For example, if you frequently fly with a particular airline, a co-branded airline credit card might be the best fit. On the other hand, if you prefer flexibility in your travel plans, a general travel rewards card that allows you to redeem points with multiple airlines and hotels might be more suitable.

Maximizing Your Rewards Through Everyday Spending

One of the keys to accumulating a significant amount of travel rewards is to use your credit card for as many everyday expenses as possible. This includes groceries, gas, dining out, and even recurring bills like utilities and subscriptions. By consistently using your travel rewards card for these purchases, you’ll be surprised at how quickly your points or miles can add up.

Taking Advantage of Sign-Up Bonuses

Many travel rewards credit cards offer generous sign-up bonuses to entice new customers. These bonuses can often be enough for a free flight or multiple hotel nights. To qualify for the bonus, you typically need to meet a minimum spending requirement within the first few months of opening the card. And, if you signup for My10x, you can keep track of all your rewards and miles portfolio in one place.

Utilizing Shopping Portals and Dining Programs

In addition to earning rewards through credit card spending, many airlines and hotels offer shopping portals and dining programs that allow you to earn even more points or miles. By simply clicking through the portal before making an online purchase or linking your credit card to a dining program and eating at participating restaurants, you can double-dip on rewards and accelerate your progress towards free travel.

Redeeming Your Rewards Wisely

Once you’ve accumulated a significant amount of travel rewards, it’s important to redeem them wisely to get the most value. This means being flexible with your travel dates, destinations, and even the airlines or hotels you choose. By doing your research and comparing redemption options, you can stretch your rewards further and enjoy more travel experiences for less out-of-pocket cost.

Keeping Track of Your Rewards and Expiration Dates

Finally, it’s crucial to keep track of your rewards balances and expiration dates. Many travel rewards programs have points or miles that expire after a certain period of inactivity, so it’s important to keep your accounts active by earning or redeeming rewards regularly. Additionally, keeping a spreadsheet or using a rewards tracking app can help you stay organized and ensure that you’re making the most of your hard-earned rewards.

By following these strategies and consistently using your travel rewards credit card for everyday spending, you can turn your daily expenses into incredible travel opportunities. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical beach getaway or an adventurous city escape, travel rewards can help make your wanderlust dreams a reality without breaking the bank.

Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has called for a comprehensive and multifaceted strategy, hinged on broader regional cooperation, to tackle the escalating security and humanitarian crisis in the Sahel region.

Zulum made the appeal while delivering a keynote address at the roundtable discussion of the 5th Aswan Forum for Sustainable Peace and Development held in Aswan, Egypt.

The governor whose state has been at the epicentre of Boko Haram insurgency in the Lake Chad Basin, argued that a purely military solution has proven insufficient.

He emphasised that lasting peace can only be achieved by simultaneously addressing the root causes of the conflict.

‘The crises of instability, terrorism and displacement that plague the Sahel cannot be solved by kinetic means alone,’ Governor Zulum stated. ‘We must look beyond the battlefield. There is an urgent need for a multifaceted approach that combines security, development, and humanitarian assistance in a synchronised manner.’

Zulum also called for broader cooperation among countries in the Sahel region, stressing that extremist groups and other criminal networks operate across borders with impunity, and the response must be equally transnational.

He said, ‘In the Sahel context, you cannot address the challenges by just looking at two or three countries. You need to look deeper into the political region of the Sahel as defined by the United Nations Strategy, which covers 10 countries, including Mauritania, Gambia and Guinea, among others. Collaboration among the larger Sahel communities is paramount.’

Governor Uba Sani has approved the appointment of Mr Bature Sunday Likoro as the new Agwom Kamuru, following the death of His Highness, Mr Yohanna Sidi Kukah on December, 18, 2024.

A statement signed by Hon Sadiq Mamman Lagos, the Commissioner of Local Government Affairs, on Tuesday, said Mr Likoro had been appointed as a 3rd Class Chief.

According to the statement, the new Agwon Kamuru was born on 15th August, 1958, and holds a Higher National Diploma in Business Administration from Kaduna Polytechnic.

The Commissioner noted that Mr Likoro wields a lot of influence in his locality, due to his records of service and community development activities, where he interacted with several stakeholders.

The statement said that although the appointment is with immediate effect, ”all other arrangements for the installation ceremony and presentation of staff of office would be announced in due course.”

Hon Mamman Lagos said that Governor Uba Sani has congratulated the new Agwom Kamuru ”for a well deserved appointment and wishes him success and God’s guidance.”

Ammasco International Limited, a leading indigenous lubricant manufacturer, has donated a fully built and furnished national headquarters to the National Automobile Technicians Association (NATA) as part of the company’s continuous support to the automotive industry.

The new complex, commissioned in Abuja, marks the end of decades of operating from rented offices by the association that represents thousands of automobile technicians and mechanics nationwide.

Speaking during the event, Ammasco Group Managing Director, Alhaji Ibrahim Mustapha Ado, said the project reflects the company’s continued commitment to empowering local technicians and strengthening the country’s auto-service ecosystem.

‘For more than two decades, Ammasco has partnered with NATA to promote technical excellence and the use of high-quality lubricants. Providing this new headquarters is our way of giving back and ensuring the association has a home befitting its national status,’ Ado said.

Similarly, NATA National President, Engr. Dr. Magaji Uba Sani, described the donation as a historic milestone for the association, expressing deep appreciation to Ammasco for its sustained partnership and corporate support.

Lisbon, the charming capital of Portugal, is a city that captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. If you’re planning a short trip to Lisbon, you might be wondering how to make the most of your time without missing any of the must-see attractions. In this guide, we’ll show you how to spend an unforgettable 3 days in Lisbon, ensuring you experience the best the city has to offer.

Day 1: Explore the Historic City Center

Start your Lisbon adventure by exploring the historic city center. Begin at Praça do Comércio, the grand square that was once the gateway to the city. From there, wander through the narrow streets of the Alfama district, the oldest neighborhood in Lisbon. Take in the colorful houses, the lively fado music, and the stunning views from the Miradouro de Santa Luzia viewpoint.

Next, make your way to the Sé de Lisboa, Lisbon’s imposing cathedral. After admiring its architecture, head to the nearby Castelo de São Jorge, a medieval castle that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Day 2: Discover Belém and the Waterfront

On your second day, venture west to the district of Belém. This historic area is home to some of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks, including the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. Both are stunning examples of Manueline architecture and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

While in Belém, be sure to sample the famous Pastéis de Belém, a delectable custard tart that has been made here since 1837. After satisfying your sweet tooth, take a leisurely stroll along the Tagus River, enjoying the waterfront views and the refreshing sea breeze.

Day 3: Experience the Charm of Sintra

For your final day, take a short train ride to the enchanting town of Sintra. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its fairytale-like palaces and lush gardens. Visit the colorful Pena Palace, the medieval Castelo dos Mouros, and the elegant Quinta da Regaleira.

After exploring Sintra, return to Lisbon and spend your evening in the lively Bairro Alto neighborhood. This area comes alive at night with its numerous bars, restaurants, and fado houses. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a delicious Portuguese meal and soak up the local atmosphere.

Where to Stay

To make the most of your 3 days in Lisbon, consider staying in a centrally located vacation rental. Lisbon rentals offer a wide range of options, from cozy apartments to spacious villas, allowing you to find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs and budget. Staying in a rental property not only provides you with more space and privacy but also allows you to experience the city like a local.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

To ensure you have the best possible experience during your 3 days in Lisbon, here are a few additional tips:

Wear comfortable shoes as Lisbon’s streets are hilly and cobblestoned.

Purchase a Lisboa Card for free or discounted entry to many attractions and free public transportation.

Try the local cuisine, including fresh seafood, hearty stews, and the famous Pastéis de Nata.

Take advantage of Lisbon’s lively nightlife, with its numerous bars, clubs, and fado houses.

Conclusion

Lisbon is a city that offers something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies to adventure seekers. By following this 3-day itinerary, you’ll be able to experience the best of Lisbon without missing a thing. Whether you’re exploring the historic city center, discovering the charm of Belém, or venturing to the enchanting town of Sintra, Lisbon is sure to leave a lasting impression on you. So, pack your bags, book your Lisbon rental, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this captivating Portuguese city.