Category: Daily Trust

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed Nigeria’s formal admission as a National Member Committee of the World Energy Council (WEC), saying the development will strengthen the country’s participation in global discussions on energy security, equity and sustainability.

Tinubu also congratulated the inaugural leadership of WEC Nigeria, including Abdulrazaq Isa, who will serve as chairman, and Bala Wunti, the Chief Executive Officer.

In a statement on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Nigeria’s admission into the global energy body as a significant development for the country’s energy sector.

He said Nigeria’s membership of the century-old organisation, which has a presence in more than 100 countries, would provide the country with an opportunity to play a greater role in shaping global energy policies and conversations.

‘Nigeria has joined the World Energy Council to lead, not just participate – to ensure Africa’s voice shapes global energy decisions,’ Tinubu said.

The President also congratulated members of the inaugural board, drawn from the energy value chain, regulatory institutions, industry associations, finance, academia and the Future Energy Leaders community.

Tinubu said the composition of the board, bringing together industry operators, regulators, finance experts and young energy leaders, would provide the balance and credibility required for the organisation to carry out its mandate.

He described Isa as a ‘distinguished patriot and trailblazing industrialist,’ citing his investments in indigenous refining and industrial energy.

The President also described Wunti as ‘one of Nigeria’s finest energy strategists and reform champions,’ noting his more than three decades of service in the energy sector.

Tinubu pledged the Federal Government’s support for WEC Nigeria as a neutral and technology-agnostic platform for policy dialogue, investment mobilisation and innovation.

He also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to working with the World Energy Council and its global network towards improving access to secure, affordable and sustainable energy.

The President wished Isa, Wunti and other members of the inaugural board success in their assignments.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has admitted crisis within the party following the just concluded primaries that produced the candidates for the 2027 elections.

The party also admitted that time is running out to amicably resolve the issue.

Our correspondent reports that the party on Thursday moved to arrest the growing internal dissent by inaugurating a high-profile National Reconciliation Committee, chaired by renowned political economist, Prof. Pat Utomi.

The committee, tasked with harmonising a fractured party ahead of the January 2026 general elections, was unveiled Wednesday by the NDC National Chairman, Sen. Clopas Moses.

Our correspondent further reports that the party faces mounting pressure to resolve disputes stemming from recent congresses and primary elections.

The National Chairman of the party, Sen. Moses emphasized that the party has a narrow window to unify its ranks before the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) opens the campaign floodgates on August 19.

‘Time is short; time is running out,’ Sen. Moses told party faithful in Abuja. ‘We cannot waste our time and energy on individual ambition. We must all bring our best work together if we are to succeed in January.’

The National Chairman acknowledged that the party is currently battling allegations of bias and financial misconduct following the selection of candidates.

He warned that unresolved grievances-often amplified by social media-threaten to undermine the presidential bid of Mr. Peter Gregory Obi and his running mate, Engr. Dr. Musa Rabiu Kwankwaso.

Daily Trust reports that Engr. Buba Galadima is the co-chairman of the committee while Mrs Dudu Manuga, the party’s National Women Leader, will serve as the committee’s secretary.

The committee is expected to submit its preliminary findings by August 20, just one day after the commencement of official campaigns.

Accepting the mandate, Prof. Utomi pledged a transparent and fair process. ‘Parties succeed not because they never experience disagreements,’ he noted, ‘but because they have the wisdom to resolve them.’

Galadima, the committee’s co-chairman, admitted that reconciling aggrieved members would be ‘a very hard nut to crack,’ but insisted the committee would leave no stone unturned in restoring party cohesion.

He reminded aspirants that only one individual can emerge from any contest, stating, ‘Only one person can fly the flag of this party at a time.’

The veteran politician blamed Nigeria’s Electoral Act for fueling conflicts within opposition parties, arguing that the current framework makes peaceful primaries nearly impossible.

‘The process of candidate selection mandated by the Electoral Act makes it difficult for any opposition party to produce a flagbearer without rancor,’ he asserted.

Galadima recounted how disputes arising from CPC primaries once left him with a N150 million court judgment and years of legal battles, citing his personal ordeal as proof of the destructive consequences of unresolved internal party friction.

Turning his attention to the 2027 presidential race, Galadima renewed his criticism of President Bola Tinubu, insisting that the opposition must unite behind a common objective to succeed.

Elite Football Club emerged as the winners of the fourth edition of the D’Royal Off-Season Football Tournament (DOFT 2026) after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over defending champions, Olukayode FC.

Themed ‘Akara Na Senior Burger,’ the grassroots tournament concluded before a fully packed crowd in Akure, Ondo State, with Ambassador Olaniboji Olatunbosun performing the ceremonial kick-off for the final.

For their triumph, champions Elite FC received a grand prize of N1,000,000 alongside gold medals, while runners-up Olukayode FC earned N500,000 and silver medals.

In the third-place match that preceded the grand finale, King City overcame Velocity FC 2-0 to take home N200,000 and bronze medals.

This year’s edition also marked the exciting debut of the DOFT Women’s Cup, featuring Onimarg FC, K.D.O. FC, and Havilah Queens.

Onimarg FC topped the table, winning N200,000. K.D.O. FC finished second to earn a N100,000 cash prize, while Havilah Queens received N50,000 for finishing third.

In a push for sports inclusivity, the D’Royal Inclusive Foundation (DRIF) hosted its first-ever para-table tennis championship.

The seven participating athletes played a novelty match and were jointly awarded N300,000 in recognition of their dedication and contributions to sports.

During his closing address, DOFT President Mr. Olaniboji Mathew (D’Royal) extended his heartfelt appreciation to the teams, referees, scouts, medical personnel, media, and supporters.

He thanked partners and sponsors for their unwavering belief in the vision and assured fans that the fifth edition would be even more remarkable.

The tournament officially wrapped up with a dazzling fireworks display, leaving an unforgettable impression on players and spectators alike.

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, key political stakeholders, community leaders, and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the Kogi East Senatorial District have declared their full support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo.

Meeting under the banner of the Kogi East APC Strategic Leadership Conference in Abuja, chaired by Major Gen. Patrick Ademu Akpa (Rtd), the group resolved to mobilize the electorate across the district to ensure a decisive victory for the party in the upcoming polls.

The conference, held under the theme ‘Unity, Electoral Strength, and Power Rotation,’ emphasized the need for a structured and negotiated framework to ensure political equity.

The stakeholders advocated for a formal arrangement regarding power rotation, which they argue is essential for the long-term stability of the state.

The communiqué, signed by 26 prominent leaders-including Major Gen. Patrick Ademu Akpa (Rtd), Amb. Isaac A. Onu, Rt. Hon. Ismaila Inna Hussaini, Rt. Hon. Dr. Emmanuel Egwu, Hajia Salamatu Baiwa Umar-Eluma, AIG Abutu Iyaro (Rtd), Dr. Sani Teidi, and Hon. Dan Okolo-outlined the following core objectives:

A major pillar of the group’s agenda is the urgent need to reverse a 20-year decline in infrastructure across Kogi East.

The leaders expressed concern that, in the decade following the passing of the late Governor Prince Abubakar Audu, the region has suffered from both systemic neglect and a lack of unified leadership.

Consequently, the group declared its resolve to engage the state and federal governments directly to secure concrete development projects.

They emphasized that while they are fully committed to the re-election of Governor Ododo, they will proactively negotiate for sustainable development to improve the living standards of citizens in the district.y

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, directed investors to explore opportunities in Abuja’s satellite towns and emerging development corridors, saying the next phase of the capital’s growth would extend beyond the traditional high end districts.

Represented by the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, Wike said ongoing infrastructure projects across the territory were opening new areas for residential, commercial and industrial investment.

He spoke at the opening of the Abuja Business and Investment Expo (ABIE 3.0) organised by Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL) in Abuja.

‘The next phase of Abuja’s development will not be restricted to Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse or the Central Business District. It will include communities and investment opportunities across the entire Federal Capital Territory,’ he said.

Wike said roads, bridges and other infrastructure being developed across the six Area Councils were creating new investment corridors and improving access to communities, markets, schools and healthcare facilities.

He explained that the projects were aimed at opening up more districts for development while spreading economic activities beyond the city centre.

The minister urged investors to take advantage of opportunities in emerging districts, agricultural communities and satellite towns, saying they would play a key role in Abuja’s next phase of growth.

He identified real estate, transportation, agriculture and agro processing, tourism, healthcare, education, renewable energy, technology, digital services, entertainment, waste management and urban infrastructure as sectors with investment opportunities.

Wike said the FCT Administration was also strengthening land administration, expanding digital processes and simplifying approval procedures to improve the investment climate.

‘We are working to simplify applications and approval processes so that investors can obtain accurate information and receive timely decisions,’ he added.

He noted that while the administration would continue to support investors, compliance with regulations remained a condition for doing business in the territory.

‘We will support and protect genuine investors, but we will not protect land speculators, fraudulent developers or businesses that disregard the law,’ he said.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, said the capital market could provide long term financing for infrastructure projects needed to support Abuja’s expansion.

He said strengthening collaboration between the FCT Administration and the capital market would help mobilise funds for infrastructure and broaden investment opportunities in the territory.

Earlier, the Group Managing Director of Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL), Amb. Maureen Tamuno, said the expo was designed to connect investors with opportunities across key sectors of the FCT economy.

She said participants would engage in investment forums, exhibitions, business networking sessions and policy dialogues covering infrastructure, real estate, technology, renewable energy, solid minerals, sports and the creative economy.

Tamuno added that the expo was expected to facilitate partnerships between government and private investors to support economic activities in the Federal Capital Territory.

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve not to negotiate with or yield to criminals as part of efforts to tackle banditry in the state.

Lawal stated this on Thursday when he visited Bungudu Local Government Area to commiserate with families and residents affected by a recent bandit attack.

The governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed details of the visit in a statement on Thursday.

The governor, who began the condolence visit at the palace of the Emir of Bungudu, Alhaji Hassan Attahiru, said the state government remained committed to deploying resources and efforts towards restoring security and peace.

‘I am here to express my sympathy and offer condolences to the families, the Emir, and the people of Bungudu following last week’s bandit attacks,’ Lawal said.

‘This is a test from Almighty Allah, and we will overcome it. The state government is dedicating resources and efforts to end the threat of banditry.’

The governor urged residents to remain patient, describing the security situation as a sensitive issue that requires perseverance and prayers.

‘I encourage everyone to remain patient, as this sensitive issue requires both perseverance and steadfast prayers,’ he said.

Lawal also assured families of those injured and abducted during the attack that the government would continue to provide necessary support.

‘We will continue to provide all necessary assistance to those injured and will do everything possible to secure the safe return of all kidnapped victims,’ the governor said.

He prayed for the families of those killed in the attack, saying, ‘I pray that God grants the victims’ families the strength to endure this loss. May Allah forgive those who lost their lives.’

Responding, the Emir of Bungudu, Alhaji Hassan Attahiru, commended the governor’s efforts towards addressing insecurity in the state.

Attahiru, who said he was a member of the state’s security council, expressed confidence that the challenge of banditry would be overcome.

‘As a member of the state’s security council, I am aware of the governor’s efforts. I am confident that we will overcome the challenge of banditry,’ the monarch said.

‘We appreciate your condolence visit. It means a lot to the people of Bungudu LGA.’

During the visit, Lawal also visited the family of the late Alhaji Bello Umar Bungudu and other families affected by the attack to offer his condolences.

For many young Nigerians, turning 30 has become more than a milestone, it feels like a deadline to achieve financial success, build a career, own a home, and meet society’s expectations.

But who defined this timeline, and does it still reflect today’s economic realities?

Join us in this episode of Nigeria Daily as we explore why so many young Nigerians feel the pressure to ‘make it’ before 30.

The 46th session of the King Abdulaziz International Competition for Memorising, Reciting and Interpreting the Holy Qur’an kicked off in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, on Thursday.

The competition is being held under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman.

The competition that runs through Rabi Al-Awwal 6, corresponding to Aug. 19, is organised by the Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance.

A total of 334 male and female contestants from 133 countries are participating in the event, marking the largest turnout in the competition’s history.

The competition aims to encourage young Muslims to memorise, comprehend, and reflect upon the Holy Qur’an, foster honourable competition, and highlight Saudi Arabia’s efforts in serving the Qur’an and honouring its memorisers.

In a historic first, independent competitions for female participants will be held at the Makkah Hilton Hotel and Convention, while male category finals and the closing ceremony will take place at the Grand Mosque.

The competition comprises five categories, with a total prize pool of SR10,260,000 (N3.7bn), the highest since the competition’s launch. (Saudi Gazette)

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has admitted crisis within the party following the just concluded primaries that produced the candidates for the 2027 elections.

The party also admitted that time is running out to amicably resolve the issue.

Our correspondent reports that the party on Thursday moved to arrest the growing internal dissent by inaugurating a high-profile National Reconciliation Committee, chaired by renowned political economist, Prof. Pat Utomi.

The committee, tasked with harmonising a fractured party ahead of the January 2026 general elections, was unveiled Wednesday by the NDC National Chairman, Sen. Clopas Moses.

Our correspondent further reports that the party faces mounting pressure to resolve disputes stemming from recent congresses and primary elections.

The National Chairman of the party, Sen. Moses emphasized that the party has a narrow window to unify its ranks before the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) opens the campaign floodgates on August 19.

‘Time is short; time is running out,’ Sen. Moses told party faithful in Abuja. ‘We cannot waste our time and energy on individual ambition. We must all bring our best work together if we are to succeed in January.’

The National Chairman acknowledged that the party is currently battling allegations of bias and financial misconduct following the selection of candidates.

He warned that unresolved grievances-often amplified by social media-threaten to undermine the presidential bid of Mr. Peter Gregory Obi and his running mate, Engr. Dr. Musa Rabiu Kwankwaso.

Daily Trust reports that Engr. Buba Galadima is the co-chairman of the committee while Mrs Dudu Manuga, the party’s National Women Leader, will serve as the committee’s secretary.

The committee is expected to submit its preliminary findings by August 20, just one day after the commencement of official campaigns.

Accepting the mandate, Prof. Utomi pledged a transparent and fair process. ‘Parties succeed not because they never experience disagreements,’ he noted, ‘but because they have the wisdom to resolve them.’

Galadima, the committee’s co-chairman, admitted that reconciling aggrieved members would be ‘a very hard nut to crack,’ but insisted the committee would leave no stone unturned in restoring party cohesion.

He reminded aspirants that only one individual can emerge from any contest, stating, ‘Only one person can fly the flag of this party at a time.’

The veteran politician blamed Nigeria’s Electoral Act for fueling conflicts within opposition parties, arguing that the current framework makes peaceful primaries nearly impossible.

‘The process of candidate selection mandated by the Electoral Act makes it difficult for any opposition party to produce a flagbearer without rancor,’ he asserted.

Galadima recounted how disputes arising from CPC primaries once left him with a N150 million court judgment and years of legal battles, citing his personal ordeal as proof of the destructive consequences of unresolved internal party friction.

Turning his attention to the 2027 presidential race, Galadima renewed his criticism of President Bola Tinubu, insisting that the opposition must unite behind a common objective to succeed.

The Kano State Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling thuggery, drug trafficking and other related crimes across the state.

Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Adamu Bakori made the pledge while receiving the Chairman of the Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drugs and Illicit Trafficking, Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, during a working visit to the Command Headquarters.

Bakori said tackling drug abuse and illicit trafficking requires a robust multi-agency approach and pledged the command’s full support through joint operations, real-time intelligence sharing, technical guidance and deployment of tactical resources to rid the state of drug peddlers, traffickers and thugs.

He noted that substance abuse has been identified as a major driver of thuggery, popularly known as Fadan Daba, particularly within the Kano metropolis, and vowed to tackle the menace decisively.

The commissioner also urged parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other community stakeholders to support security agencies by providing timely information and promoting preventive measures against drug abuse.

Speaking earlier, Rimin Gado said the visit was aimed at briefing the command on the task force’s mandate and operational plans, as well as strengthening collaboration in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking in the state.

He commended the police for their proactive and intelligence-driven approach to crime fighting and assured the command of the task force’s commitment to supporting police operations through advocacy, community engagement, public enlightenment and credible intelligence gathering.

The Kano State Police Command reiterated its commitment to building a drug-free and crime-free society, warning that anyone involved in illicit drug trafficking or thuggery would face the full weight of the law.