Category: PM News

By Naomi Sharang

The Obidient Movement says it has intensified mobilisation of supporters for the presidential bid of Mr Peter Obi, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The movement expressed confidence that its presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) can provide the leadership needed to address Nigeria’s economic and governance challenges.

The call was made on Sunday in Abuja during the ‘FCT Obidient Movement Engagement Forum Towards 2027’ tagged ‘Building Unity, Strengthening Democracy, Shaping the Future’.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was organised by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Obidient Movement.

National Coordinator of the Movement, Yunusa Tanko, said Nigeria’s current economic hardship was worsened by the manner in which fuel subsidy was removed without adequate measures to cushion its impact on citizens.

According to him, the policy triggered increases in transportation costs, labour costs and the prices of goods and services, while the expected benefits of subsidy savings had not been visible to ordinary Nigerians.

Tanko urged leaders to prioritise investments that would improve the welfare of citizens through better public transportation, healthcare, education and other essential services.

He also called for a more equitable society where every Nigerians would have access to opportunities and public utilities regardless of social status.

Similarly, a chieftain of the NDC, Mr Peter Ameh, said that poor governance, corruption and mismanagement of public resources were responsible for Nigeria’s economic and infrastructural challenges.

Ameh, a former National Chairman of Inter-Party Advisory Council said Nigeria possessed sufficient human and natural resources but lacked leaders with the competence, vision and integrity required to manage them effectively.

He criticised what he described as wasteful public expenditure and called for prudent management of national resources to improve education, healthcare, infrastructure and security.

Ameh urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to remain actively involved in the democratic process to ensure accountable leadership.

Also speaking, the FCT Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Daniel Dumije, said the movement had inspired greater political participation among young Nigerians who previously regarded politics as a dirty game.

He said the movement remained committed to promoting integrity, accountability and active citizenship, adding that preparations had already begun toward the 2027 elections.

Dumije encouraged supporters not to be intimidated but to remain peaceful, organised and focused on achieving a ‘New Nigeria’ through democratic means.

A public policy expert, Sam Amadi, urged members of the movement to remain united, committed and strategic in their mobilisation efforts.

Amadi stressed the need for vigilance in the electoral process and expressed confidence that sustained citizens participation could strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and improve electoral outcomes.

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has said its offshore terminal currently receives 90 i8 about 75 tanker vessels every month and expects the figure to rise to between 900 and 1,000 tanker calls yearly as the refinery reaches full production capacity.

The company’s Head of Port Infrastructure and Marine Operations, Captain Satendra Singh Rana, disclosed this during a tour of the refinery’s marine facilities by participants of the Global CEO Africa Programme of Lagos Business School.

According to Rana, the refinery has handled about 1,100 tanker calls since it began operations, a development he said is helping to transform Nigeria’s energy and maritime sectors.

He explained that crude oil is delivered by large vessels to offshore terminals known as Single Point Moorings (SPMs). The crude is then transported through underwater pipelines to storage tanks onshore before being processed into refined petroleum products.

After refining, products such as petrol, diesel and aviation fuel are pumped through separate pipelines back to offshore terminals for export or local distribution.

Rana said the refinery operates five offshore SPMs. Two are used for receiving crude oil, while three are dedicated to loading refined products.

He noted that the offshore system allows very large vessels to dock in deep water without the need for expensive dredging, making operations more efficient and cost-effective.

According to him, some of the largest vessels visiting the terminal carry as much as three million barrels of crude oil. He added that Very Large Crude Carriers carrying about two million barrels regularly call at the facility, while Suezmax tankers often deliver one million barrels of crude from both local and international sources.

Rana also said the offshore location gives the refinery an advantage because it is less affected by severe weather conditions, allowing marine operations to continue throughout the year.

Speaking during the visit, the Academic Director of the Global CEO Africa Programme at Lagos Business School, Enase Akinwuntan, described the refinery as a major example of what African businesses can achieve through local investment.

She said the project, led by billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote, shows how private-sector investments can support industrial growth, create jobs, strengthen regional trade and reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.

Visitors were taken around key sections of the refinery, including the gantry, processing units, laboratory, control room and crude oil storage tanks. They also attended a session where company officials explained the refinery’s operations and logistics.

Meanwhile, the refinery recently confirmed that it raised $2.5 billion through a private placement ahead of its planned Initial Public Offering (IPO) later this year.

Group Executive Director of the refinery, Devakumar Edwin, said the funds would be used to support the next phase of expansion

. The refinery is currently valued at about $39.1 billion, and market observers are closely watching the planned IPO, which is expected to be one of the biggest listings in Nigeria’s capital market.

The Federal Government is stepping up efforts to reform the solid minerals industry by leveraging digital identity technology to improve oversight, identify mining operators and combat illegal activities across the sector.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, disclosed the plan while hosting the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Identity Management Commission, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, and members of her management team during a courtesy visit in Abuja.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the minister’s Special Assistant on Media, Lara Owoeye-Wise, the ministry said both organisations were exploring closer cooperation aimed at integrating digital identity solutions into the mining industry to enhance governance, transparency and security.

Alake described NIMC as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s development agenda, noting that modern governance depends heavily on reliable identity systems, technology and quality data.

‘NIMC occupies a critical position in translating policy into reality. It is pivotal to the development of any nation because governance today is driven by data, technology and credible identity systems,’ the minister said.

He explained that the ongoing transformation of the mining sector required strong collaboration with institutions responsible for identity management to improve accountability and strengthen regulatory enforcement.

According to him, establishing a robust identity framework would enable authorities to distinguish licensed operators from illegal miners while improving surveillance of mining activities nationwide.

‘Without identification, we cannot trace; we cannot track, and insecurity will flourish. In the solid minerals sector, we need effective tracking of both legal and illegal operations.

‘A credible identity ecosystem will strengthen regulation, improve enforcement and support our efforts to sanitise the sector,’ he said.

Alake also identified digital identity, technology, data collection and statistical analysis as essential tools for evidence-based policymaking, effective licensing processes, stronger regulation and attracting investment into the industry.

He added that dependable data would give government agencies clearer insight into activities within the sector, allowing them to formulate policies that promote sustainable growth.

The initiative forms part of broader government efforts to address persistent challenges in the mining industry, including illegal mining, weak regulatory oversight, insecurity and inadequate data on operators. Authorities believe that stronger regulation, supported by reliable digital information, will help unlock the sector’s economic potential while reducing unlawful activities.

Speaking earlier, Coker-Odusote outlined several areas where NIMC could support the ministry’s reform agenda.

She said the recently enacted NIMC Act 2026 had reinforced the country’s legal framework for digital identity management and opened the door for wider adoption of identity solutions across government institutions.

According to her, integrating NIMC’s digital identity infrastructure into the mining sector would facilitate database integration among government agencies, improve compliance with regulations and strengthen security operations.

She also said it would enhance the monitoring of mining operators and provide stronger support for the implementation of Community Development Agreements in mining host communities.

Coker-Odusote noted that dependable digital identity systems would enable government agencies to maintain more accurate records while improving transparency and service delivery.

She added that the new legislation would promote secure identity verification, enhance information sharing among government agencies and improve the delivery of public services to Nigerians and legal residents.

The NIMC chief said the commission’s digital infrastructure could help establish a more reliable identity ecosystem for the mining industry, enabling regulators to verify operators more effectively and strengthen nationwide monitoring.

Both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to working together on technology-driven initiatives designed to improve governance, transparency, accountability and security in the management of Nigeria’s mineral resources.

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Vice President Kashim Shettima, on Sunday arrived in Lungi, Sierra Leone to participate in the 69th Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Heads of State and Government Summit.

On arrival at the Sierra Leone International Airport, Lungi, Shettima was received by the Vice President of Sierra Leone, Dr Mohamed Jalloh, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Sola Enikanolaiye.

Also on ground to welcome the VP are the Nigerian High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, Amb. Ayo Luther-Ogbomode, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Gas, Ekperikpe Ekpo, the Nigerian Permanent Representative to the ECOWAS, Amb. Olawale Awe, among others.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the high-level gathering brought together Heads of State, government officials, diplomats and development partners from across West Africa.

The participants gather to discuss key regional issues, including peace, security, economic integration and sustainable development.

Nigeria’s presence at the summits further demonstrates its commitment to regional diplomacy and its determination to strengthen cooperation among ECOWAS member states.

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) says it will establish an independent tribunal, comprising retired judges and other impartial officials, to hear broadcast violation cases.

The commission also disclosed that it will appeal the court judgment on its powers to impose financial sanctions on erring broadcast stations.

The Director-General of NBC, Dr Charles Ebuebu, made these known in an exclusive interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

Ebuebu clarified that the court did not prohibit the commission from imposing sanctions on erring broadcasters.

‘The court didn’t say NBC cannot sanction. It only said you cannot be a judge and jury in your own case,’ he said.

He explained that the judgment specifically addressed financial sanctions, which the court viewed as akin to criminal penalties imposed without an independent adjudicatory process.

According to him, NBC disagrees with the interpretation, insisting administrative fines differ from criminal fines, hence its decision to challenge the ruling on appeal.

‘There’s a difference between a criminal fine and an administrative fine.

‘That is why we have appealed the court’s decisions,’ Ebuebu said.

He said the commission was designing an independent tribunal within the regulatory framework but separate from NBC to determine broadcast violation cases.

Ebuebu said retired judges and other independent officials would serve on the tribunal to ensure fairness and transparency in adjudicating violations.

He likened the arrangement to the Federal Road Safety Commission’s mobile court system, where traffic offenders appear before an independent tribunal before sanctions are imposed.

‘If you’re caught, you go before a tribunal or a mobile court.

‘You don’t really have to go before a fully-fledged magistrate court,’ he said.

The NBC boss warned that removing sanctioning powers would weaken broadcast regulation, as some operators ignore warning letters until penalties are imposed.

‘We don’t want to go from warning letters to withdrawing a licence. That’s arbitrary.

There must be a process, and we are going back to court to appeal that decisions’ he said.

In May 2023, the Federal High Court in Abuja ruled that the NBC lacked the power to unilaterally impose financial sanctions on broadcast stations without judicial intervention.

The court held that imposing monetary fines without an independent adjudicatory process breached the principles of fair hearing, and consequently nullified fines earlier imposed on affected broadcasters.

The NBC appealed the decisions of the high court in the case institute against the commission by the Incorporated Trustees of Media Rights Agenda.

On April 2, 2026, the Court of Appeal in Abuja dismissed the NBC’s appeal and affirmed the Federal High Court’s judgment, holding that the commission’s appeal lacked merit.

The appellate court upheld the nullification of the fines imposed on affected broadcasters, reinforcing that the NBC cannot unilaterally impose financial penalties under the existing legal framework.

Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, has emerged as the 33rd President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), becoming one of the leading voices in Nigeria’s legal profession.

Called to the Nigerian Bar in 2002, Badejo-Okusanya obtained her law degree from the University of Lagos before beginning her legal career at Olaniwun Ajayi LP, one of Nigeria’s foremost commercial law firms. Over the years, she built a reputation as a skilled legal practitioner with expertise in litigation, dispute resolution and public sector law.

Her rise in the legal profession saw her attain the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) on September 29, 2025.

The SAN title is regarded as the highest professional distinction for legal practitioners in Nigeria and is awarded to lawyers who have demonstrated excellence, integrity and significant contributions to the development of the law.

Beyond private legal practice, Badejo-Okusanya has also served in public office. In 2007, she was appointed by former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, as a senior aide on Justice Sector Reform.

In that role, she contributed to initiatives aimed at improving the administration of justice and strengthening legal institutions in Lagos State.

She later served as General Counsel to the Lagos State Governor between 2011 and 2015, providing legal advice on government policies, governance matters and public administration.

Currently, Badejo-Okusanya is a partner at ALP NG and Co. (Africa Law Practice NG and Company), where she serves as Co-Head of the firm’s Litigation and Dispute Resolution Practice. Her work spans complex commercial disputes, arbitration and strategic legal advisory services.

She is also widely recognised in the international legal community through her memberships in several prominent organisations, including the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA), the International Council for Commercial Arbitration (ICCA), the African Arbitration Association, Arbitral Women, the International Bar Association (IBA), and the Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA).

With more than two decades of legal experience across private practice, public service and international arbitration, Badejo-Okusanya’s emergence as NBA President marks another significant milestone in a distinguished legal career.

As part of his ongoing consultations with critical stakeholders ahead of the 2027 Ogun State governorship election, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), on Friday met with the Egba League of Imams and Alfas at the Egba Central Mosque, Kobiti, Abeokuta.

The engagement was aimed at strengthening dialogue, promoting unity, and discussing the future development of Ogun State.

The meeting attracted prominent Islamic clerics led by the Chief Imam of Egbaland, Sheikh Muhammed Sa’ad Alade Bamgbola, alongside respected sons and daughters of Egbaland.

Introducing Senator Adeola and the APC deputy governorship candidate, Mrs. Abiodun Adegunwa-Balogun, to the gathering, Ogun State APC Chairman, Alhaji Yemi Sanusi, described the Muslim community as a dependable pillar of support for the party over the years.

He recalled that the prayers and backing of Islamic leaders contributed significantly to the victories recorded by the APC in the 2019 and 2023 elections and appealed for similar support ahead of the 2027 governorship poll.

‘Your prayers and support were invaluable in 2019 and 2023. We have come again to seek your prayers and support for Senator Adeola Yayi to become the next governor of Ogun State. By the grace of God, when we assume office, we will return to seek your continued prayers for a successful administration,’ Sanusi said.

Addressing the gathering, Senator Adeola said his aspiration to govern Ogun State is driven by a genuine desire to serve every resident, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or political affiliation.

He praised the religious leaders for their contributions to peace and social harmony, stressing that sustainable development can only thrive in a peaceful environment.

‘My visit today is not about campaigning but about listening and reassuring our respected religious leaders that our administration will be inclusive, fair and people-centred. Ogun State belongs to all of us. Whether in the cities or rural communities, my commitment is to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach every household.

‘Throughout my years in public service, I have executed projects across Ogun State because I believe leadership is about meeting the needs of the people. God has given me the opportunity to serve, and I remain committed to using that privilege for the benefit of our people,’ Yayi said.

The senator also announced a personal donation of N150 million towards the renovation and expansion of the Egba Central Mosque.

‘I have been informed about the plan to renovate and expand this historic mosque. I am making a personal donation of N150 million, which will be transferred immediately into the mosque’s account. In addition, I will facilitate the rehabilitation of the road leading to this mosque, and work will commence as soon as possible.

‘Everything I have achieved today is by the grace of Almighty God and the prayers of people like you-our Imams, Alfas and Muslim faithful. I ask for your continued prayers and support as we work together to build a more prosperous Ogun State,’ Yayi added.

Responding on behalf of the Muslim community, the Chief Imam of Egbaland, Sheikh Muhammed Sa’ad Alade Bamgbola, commended Senator Adeola for his humility, respect for traditional institutions and commitment to engaging stakeholders.

He prayed for the success of the senator’s aspiration, while urging him to fulfil his promises if elected governor.

‘If your plans for Ogun State and Egbaland are sincere, may Almighty God grant your heart’s desires. Egbaland constitutes a significant part of Ogun State and deserves fair treatment. When you become governor, ensure you fulfil your promises to Egbaland while also ensuring fairness to every other part of the state,’ the Chief Imam said.

Among dignitaries present at the meeting were Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Olusegun Elemide; former Deputy Governor, Alhaja Salmot Badru; Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu (Omoyayi); Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako; Ogun State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan; and Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government, Hon. Lanre Oyegbola.

The Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, has expressed sadness over the passing of Dame Ezinne Mary Oduah Amaechi, mother of former Governor of Rivers State and former Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi.

The former Abia state governor in a statement on Saturday, described the late Dame Amaechi as a devoted mother, woman of faith, and respected matriarch whose life was defined by humility, compassion, and commitment to her family, community, and humanity.

He said her passing was a painful loss not only to the Amaechi family but also to all who had the privilege of knowing her, noting that she lived an exemplary life of service, dignity, and grace worthy of emulation.

Senator Kalu extended his heartfelt condolences to Rt. Hon. Amaechi, the entire Amaechi family, friends, and associates, praying that Almighty God grants them the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

The former Governor of Abia State urged the bereaved family to take solace in the enduring legacy of love, discipline, faith, and selfless service that the late Dame Amaechi left behind.

‘On behalf of my family and the good people of Abia North Senatorial District, I extend my deepest condolences to my dear brother, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, and the entire Amaechi family. I pray that Almighty God grants you the strength to bear this painful loss and grant the soul of your beloved mother eternal rest,’ Senator Kalu said.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of the deceased and asked God to continue to comfort the entire Amaechi family during this period of mourning.

United States President Donald Trump has joined the debate over England’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, questioning manager Thomas Tuchel’s decision to use captain Harry Kane in a defensive role during the closing stages of the match.

England suffered a painful 2-1 defeat after surrendering their lead against Argentina, with Lionel Messi inspiring a late comeback that sent the South Americans into Sunday’s final against Spain.

The tactical decisions made by Tuchel after England went ahead through Anthony Gordon have attracted criticism from pundits and supporters, with many questioning the decision to switch to a defensive approach instead of pushing for a second goal.

Trump, speaking during a reception at Trump Tower, said England may have made a mistake by limiting the influence of their captain.

‘You have a great player in England who I’ve played golf with. And he is Harry [Kane] who has been fantastic,’ Trump said.

‘I think they perhaps made a mistake when they made him a defensive player. They took their best player and put him on defence.’

The US president added: ‘We got to be a little offensive, right? But no, I’m not going to call it, what do I know about coaching? But that was a little unusual.’

Tuchel had introduced a number of defensive-minded changes as England attempted to protect their advantage, moving to a back-five formation as Argentina increased pressure in search of an equaliser.

However, the move backfired as Argentina found spaces late in the game and scored twice to complete a dramatic turnaround.

The defeat has placed attention on Tuchel’s tactical choices, with some England players reportedly disappointed with how the team was instructed to finish the match after taking the lead.

Tuchel, however, dismissed Trump’s comments when asked about the president’s criticism, insisting that decisions made during matches are based on the demands of the game.

Trump also spoke about his involvement in the controversy surrounding USA striker Folarin Balogun’s suspension during the tournament.

Balogun had initially been handed a one-match suspension after receiving a straight red card for a challenge on Bosnia-Herzegovina defender Tarik Muharemovic, leaving him set to miss the last-16 clash against Belgium.

But FIFA later suspended the automatic ban for 12 months, allowing the striker to feature in the knockout stage.

Trump said he contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino over the matter, adding that he wanted the situation reviewed.

The president also praised the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, describing it as one of the biggest sporting events ever staged.

FIFA president Infantino said the tournament had exceeded expectations, describing it as a global celebration of football.

Meanwhile, England must now reflect on another missed opportunity after their semi-final exit, while Argentina prepare to face Spain in the World Cup final.

Human rights lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to learn from the ongoing Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) national election, saying it proves that secure electronic voting can work in Nigeria.

Speaking after voting in the NBA election, Adeyanju praised the Nigerian Bar Association Electoral Committee (ECNBA) for conducting what he described as a smooth, transparent and efficient electronic voting process.

According to him, the entire process, from registration and verification to voting, took less than two minutes.

He explained that the voting system used each lawyer’s unique Supreme Court enrolment number and a One-Time Password (OTP) for verification, helping to ensure security and credibility.

Adeyanju said the success of the NBA election shows that electronic voting is possible in Nigeria when the right technology and safeguards are put in place.

He called on INEC to closely study the process and adopt similar innovations to improve the country’s electoral system.

‘The NBA election has shown that secure electronic voting is achievable with the right systems. INEC should closely observe this process and learn from it,’ he said.

The activist also expressed hope that the INEC Chairman, who is a Professor of Law and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), would take part in the NBA election to see firsthand how effective the electronic voting system is.

Adeyanju added that the adoption of such technology could greatly improve the credibility, transparency and efficiency of elections in Nigeria.