Category: PM News

Mr President, your intervention is urgently needed to halt what appears to be an orchestrated attempt by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to cancel legally binding cargo survey (CS) contracts still valid until 2029.

It cannot be swept aside as mere internal reorganisation when, in fact, this move carries the hallmarks of economic sabotage that will erode government revenue, dent investor confidence, and undermine port efficiency.

It is no secret that the performance of the current CS companies is a major factor behind the uptick in port revenues in recent years, revenues the NPA now uses in its projection of ?1.28 trillion for 2025 after generating ?894.86 billion in 2024. These CS firms have digitised their operations, enabling better monitoring, quicker turnaround times, transparency in billing and verification, and reduced leakage. These innovations strengthen the NPA’s bottom line and strengthen Nigeria’s standing in maritime trade.

Yet, the NPA did not invite any of these firms to discuss performance gaps; did not issue any notice of default; and did not present any documented evidence that the contractors were found wanting before initiating the cancellation drive. The abrupt termination push was imposed without dialogue.

At a time when Nigeria needs a strong revenue front to combat fiscal deficits, external debt, currency pressure, inflation, and security challenges, the NPA’s scheme will instead weaken the very institutions meant to raise those revenues and send a dangerous signal to investors.

I respectfully call on you, Mr President, to direct the Managing Director of the NPA to cease this cancellation scheme immediately and to adhere strictly to due process. I also urge you to direct the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to resist being railroaded by the NPA leadership, to uphold procurement laws, and to ensure that any move to cancel or re-tender these contracts is done transparently and in full compliance with the Public Procurement Act.

Your administration must make it clear that government agencies will not be permitted to renege on agreements. Consistency and respect for contracts must become watchwords, for potential domestic and foreign investors are watching, and will be discouraged if binding agreements are broken at will.

It would be a shame to see revenue growth reversed or litigations initiated over failed manoeuvres attributable to executive overreach instead of reasoned policy. As someone who is committed to Nigeria’s maritime integrity, I appeal to you to restore the rule of law at the NPA before this crisis worsens.

Abegunde, convener of the Maritime Integrity Movement, writes from Lagos.

Operatives of the Zone 2 Police Command, Lagos, have arrested two suspected land speculators, Toafeek Adebesin, 58, and Wasiu Adesina, 47, for allegedly defrauding a buyer of ?7 million under false pretence in the Oloye Village, Erunwen area of Ikorodu.

The duo were accused of collecting the sum from one Ogochukwu Ndidi Asota, claiming they were selling him three acres of land in the area.

However, police investigations revealed that the land did not belong to them, and they allegedly converted the money to their personal use.

Following a petition to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 2 Command, AIG Adegoke Fayoade, detectives led by SP Stanley Igbinovia launched a manhunt and eventually apprehended the suspects at a hideout in Lagos through intelligence tracking.

After investigation, Adebesin and Adesina were arraigned before the Igbosere Magistrate’s Court, sitting at the Tinubu Magistrate’s Court, Lagos Island, on a three-count charge of conspiracy, obtaining money by false pretence, and stealing, contrary to Sections 411, 314, and 287 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.

Police prosecutor, DSP Francis Igbinosa, told the court that the incident occurred in 2022 at Oloye Village.

He explained that the defendants fraudulently sold plots of land belonging to another family to the complainant.

The deception came to light when Asota began development on the site, and the rightful owners allegedly stormed the area, chased away the workers, and declared that they never sold the property.

Both defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The presiding magistrate, Mrs D.S. Amos, granted them ?1 million bail each with two sureties in like sum and ordered their remand at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending fulfilment of bail conditions.

The case was adjourned till 14 October 2025 for mention.

The Lagos State Safety Commission has sealed several chemical factories and shops in the Ojota area for breaching safety and environmental regulations.

The enforcement exercise, conducted in the early hours of Thursday, was carried out in line with the Lagos State Safety Commission Law of 2011.

Officials of the Commission, led by the Director-General, Mr. Lanre Mojola, said the facilities were shut after operators repeatedly ignored safety directives and failed to implement agreed measures despite warnings and a grace period.

He explained that prior to the closure, the Commission had inspected the factories and held several meetings with the executives of the chemical dealers.

During these engagements, Mojola said a letter of undertaking was signed on 9 May 2025, in which the operators agreed to conduct a comprehensive safety audit of the market, organise workshops on hazard identification and risk evaluation, provide serviced and accessible fire extinguishers, maintain an updated chemical inventory with expiry dates, ensure the consistent use of personal protective equipment, install proper safety signage and chemical labels, and develop a disaster management and business continuity plan.

According to Mojola, the chemical dealers failed to act on the agreement even after the ultimatum expired, leaving the Commission with no alternative but to seal the facilities to protect lives and property.

He stated that the affected premises would remain closed until full compliance is achieved, adding that the Commission would not compromise its enforcement duties.

Mojola urged manufacturers and business operators across Lagos to adopt proactive safety measures and ensure their workplaces meet the required safety standards.

In recent years, the Lagos State Safety Commission has intensified its surveillance and enforcement drive across factories, markets, and other high-risk facilities.

The initiative, Mojola noted, is part of the state government’s broader commitment to promoting public safety and preventing industrial disasters.

UK Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has unveiled an ambitious immigration plan that aims to deport up to 150,000 illegal migrants every year, in what she described as a decisive move to ‘restore control of Britain’s borders.’

Speaking at the 2025 Conservative Party Conference in Manchester, Badenoch announced that her government would create a new ‘Removals Force’, a dedicated immigration enforcement agency modelled after the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The agency will be tasked with dramatically expanding deportations from the current annual average of around 34,000 to 150,000.

According to the proposal, the new force will receive £1.6 billion in funding, giving it greater operational capacity, surveillance tools, and police support.

Officers will reportedly be empowered to conduct immigration checks during routine arrests and use technologies such as facial recognition to identify illegal entrants.

Badenoch said the reforms were necessary to end what she called ‘years of weak enforcement and legal loopholes’ that have allowed people to ‘remain unlawfully in the country.’

‘Britain will no longer be a soft touch for illegal migration,’ she told delegates. ‘We will find, detain, and remove those who have no right to be here.’

Badenoch’s plan also proposes withdrawing the UK from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) and repealing the Human Rights Act, both of which she argues have been exploited to block deportations through lengthy appeals.

Under the proposed legislation, asylum claims from people entering illegally would be automatically rejected, and legal aid for immigration cases would be curtailed.

Critics, however, have questioned both the feasibility and legality of the 150,000 deportation target.

Immigration lawyers and human rights groups warn that such mass removals could breach international law and strain relations with destination countries.

The Labour Party described the plan as ‘headline politics without substance,’ arguing that the UK currently lacks the infrastructure, detention capacity, and diplomatic agreements to achieve deportations at that scale.

Legal experts have also pointed out that withdrawing from the ECHR would require renegotiating multiple international treaties and could have far-reaching implications for citizens’ rights.

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Bono has resettled three more communities after residents resisted Boko Haram displacement in Banki, Bama Local Government Area.

The governor, who was in Banki, where the insurgents attacked military barrack and civilian locations, on Sunday, sympathized with residents and commended their resilience.

‘I purposely came to Banki to salute your courage; your act of bravery is really encouraging.

‘We should not allow a few bad elements to displace this town whose businesses and economic activities have been thriving.

‘I want to assure you that the insurgents will not succeed, Insha’Allah. We will strengthen the security of this border town and will support our youth volunteers, hunters, and vigilantes to further fortify this area,’ Zulum said.

He assured that robust security measures will be implemented to protect the border town from further attacks by Boko Haram insurgents.

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu for attending the funeral service of Mama Lydia Yilwatda, mother of APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, in Jos on Saturday.

Governor Mutfwang described the President’s presence in Plateau, despite his tight national schedule, as ‘a profound demonstration of respect and love for the people of the State’ and a reaffirmation of Tinubu’s commitment to national unity.

‘The President’s presence here today speaks volumes about his regard for the people of Plateau and his belief in the values of love, unity, and faith that Mama Lydia embodied,’ the Governor said.

He commended President Tinubu for using the solemn occasion to call for religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians, saying the President’s message reinforces the need for unity in diversity.

‘The President’s testimony about harmony within his own family reminds us that our diversity is not a weakness but a divine strength,’ Mutfwang added. ‘It is through mutual respect and understanding that we can truly build a peaceful nation.’

Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to peace, unity, and development across Plateau State, assuring that his government will continue to promote coexistence among its diverse communities.

He also revealed that he briefed the President on the State’s ongoing developmental strides – including initiatives in agriculture, infrastructure, and urban renewal, such as the Tin City Metro Buses project – which, he said, align with Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

‘We are rebuilding the Plateau economy and investing in projects that touch lives,’ Mutfwang noted. ‘Our efforts complement the President’s vision, and we look forward to deepening collaboration with the Federal Government for the benefit of our people.’

The Governor expressed deep appreciation to the President and the First Lady for standing with the Yilwatda family and the people of Plateau at a time of mourning.

‘Your visit once again reaffirms Plateau’s place as a symbol of unity and hospitality in our nation’s history,’ he said. ‘Together, we shall continue to build a Plateau and a Nigeria where every citizen can live, worship, and thrive without fear or division.’

Acting Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at First Bank of Nigeria, Olayinka Ijabiyi, has explained the bank’s motivation for sponsoring the E1 Lagos Grand Prix.

He described the event as a perfect blend of First Bank’s innovation, sustainability, and excitement, values that align with the bank’s 131-year legacy.

Speaking in an interview at the conclusion of the E1 Lagos GP held on Victoria Island, Lagos, Ijabiyi said the bank’s decision to sponsor Africa’s first-ever all-electric powerboat race stemmed from its heritage of constant reinvention and leadership in promoting progress across sectors.

‘Innovation, sustainability, excitement, speed, we are a heritage bank that has been around for 131 years, and for every one of those years, we have constantly renewed ourselves,’ he said.

‘When this (E1) opportunity presented itself, who else could bring the first GP to Nigeria but First Bank? We presented Lagos and Nigeria to the world, and it has been such an exciting experience,’ he added.

Ijabiyi added that the event showcased Lagos’ potential for hosting world-class sports, tourism, and lifestyle experiences.

‘It’s been amazing to see this kind of magic happen here in Lagos-the crowd, the energy, the fun. This sport is a great sport, and First Bank is super glad and delighted to have been the sponsor of this event.’

On the bank’s broader involvement in sports, Ijabiyi noted that First Bank has a long-standing tradition of supporting athletics across generations.

‘We’ve been in the sporting space for decades, over 60 years supporting basketball, football, and other traditional sports. We have a female basketball team and a male football team in the Nigerian leagues,’ hhe explained.

‘But we’re also evolving, going electric, going sustainable. That’s why E1 made perfect sense. It’s not just sport, it’s clean, green innovation,’ he added.

He emphasised that First Bank’s commitment to sustainability guided its involvement in the E1 race, noting that the event produced zero emissions.

‘This race is a net-zero emitter. We’re very strong on sustaining the environment and supporting a cleaner, greener future,’ he said.

Looking ahead, Ijabiyi said First Bank plans to continue its support for lifestyle and entertainment events as the festive season approaches.

‘December is the vibe. We’re in the Ember months, and this is just a taste of what’s to come-fun, fashion, food, and lots of lifestyle events. It’s going to be amazing,’ he stated.

The Nigerian Armed Forces have confirmed the arrest of 16 officers for alleged acts of indiscipline and violations of service regulations.

In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the military explained that investigations revealed most of the detained officers were frustrated by repeated failures in promotion examinations, which they blamed for their perceived career stagnation.

Gusau said the affected officers’ behaviour was found to be inconsistent with military standards, noting that some of them were already facing disciplinary proceedings for other offences.

‘The Armed Forces of Nigeria wishes to inform the public that a routine military operation led to the arrest of 16 officers for various acts of indiscipline and breaches of service rules,’ the statement read.

‘Investigations have shown that their grievances arose mainly from perceived stagnation due to repeated failure in promotion exams. Some of them were already under investigation or trial for other offences.’

He emphasized that any officer found guilty after the ongoing investigations would face appropriate disciplinary measures as stipulated by military law.

‘Upon completion of investigations, indicted officers will face the full military disciplinary process to ensure accountability and uphold professionalism within the ranks,’ Gusau added.

‘The Armed Forces will not condone any conduct that undermines its integrity or threatens its constitutional responsibilities.’

The statement further noted that disciplinary actions are routine within the military structure, stressing that similar measures have previously been taken against personnel involved in mutiny, desertion, and other serious misconducts.

The Armed Forces reassured the public that the arrests were purely disciplinary and aimed at maintaining order, loyalty, and discipline within the system.

Operatives of the Zone 2 Police Command, Lagos, have arrested a 44-year-old estate manager, Ayodele Solanke, for allegedly defrauding several companies of a total sum of ?99 million under false pretence.

According to the police, Solanke’s arrest followed multiple complaints from victims who accused him of collecting large sums of money under the guise of securing office and accommodation spaces but allegedly diverting the funds for personal use.

Trouble reportedly began when Solanke allegedly collected ?25 million from the management of Moore Bishop and Brooks Abvisor, promising to provide office space for the firm, a promise he failed to fulfil.

Investigators said he later received another ?63 million from six organisations-Mortgage Banking Association of Nigeria (MBAN) Chapters, Heights Finance Limited, Silvercuum Cooperative Society, Push Africa, Mutual Specialist Investment Co., and Orisun Biotech Limited, under similar pretences.

Instead of remitting the funds to Unicorn Group, the company said to have contracted him for the deals, Solanke allegedly converted the money for his personal use.

Following the failed attempts by the victims to recover their money, the case was reported to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 2, AIG Olatunji Fayoade, who ordered a tactical team to track down the suspect.

Solanke was eventually arrested at a hideout in Lagos.

After investigations led by ASP Francis Achua, the suspect was charged before the Igbosere Magistrate’s Court sitting at the Tinubu Magistrate’s Court, Lagos Island, on a three-count charge bordering on obtaining money by false pretence and stealing.

The prosecuting counsel, ASP Jimoh Joseph, told the court that the offences were committed in June 2025 at 362 Herbert Macaulay Way, Yaba, and contravened Sections of the Criminal Law of Lagos State.

Solanke pleaded not guilty to all charges. The presiding Magistrate, A.O. Alogba, granted him ?2 million bail with two sureties in like sum.

He was ordered to be remanded at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre pending the fulfilment of his bail conditions, while the case was adjourned for further hearing.

Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has outlined the steps the South East must take to secure the release of detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, urging the region to remain law-abiding and appreciative as talks for a political solution continue.

Umahi made the remarks in Aba, Abia State, during the inauguration of multiple projects executed by Governor Alex Otti, an event he attended on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

His statement came amid renewed optimism surrounding Kanu’s release, with Governor Otti assuring that President Tinubu is ‘favourably disposed’ to resolving the issue.

‘I can assure you that I am engaging with Mr. President, and he is favourably disposed to it. I’m confident that in no distant future, Nnamdi Kanu will regain his freedom,’ Otti said.

The call for Kanu’s release also gained support from Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South), who publicly appealed to President Tinubu during the event.

‘Mr. President has done so much for us, but there is one thing left, please, release Mazi Nnamdi Kanu so we can have absolute peace in the South East,’ Abaribe said, drawing loud applause from the audience.

Responding, Umahi noted that leaders from across the South East were already working quietly to achieve a peaceful resolution.

‘The governors of the South East, our senators, House of Reps members, and ministers including even those outside the region – are seriously working on a political solution,’ Umahi said. ‘But we must be law-abiding and appreciative. The President has love for the South East and is listening.’

Kanu has been in detention at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility in Abuja since June 2021, following his controversial extradition from Kenya. Despite several court rulings, including a United Nations advisory opinion, ordering his release, the Federal Government has maintained that he must face treason-related charges.