Ewura warns businesses against building fuel stations without permits

Dar es Salaam. The Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (Ewura) has cautioned entrepreneurs planning to establish petrol stations across the country to secure official construction permits before commencing work, warning that failure to comply could result in heavy penalties.

The warning came in a press statement issued on Friday, October 3, 2025, during a consultative meeting in Iringa, amid reports that some investors, particularly in rural districts, were rushing to build stations without following due process. Ewura said such practices undermine regulatory standards and pose safety, health, and environmental risks.

Ewura Central Zone Manager, Ms Hawa Lweno, told stakeholders from the downstream petroleum, electricity, and water sectors that anyone intending to build a petrol station must first obtain a construction permit from the authority. “Failure to comply with this legal requirement will attract a fine of up to Sh20 million,” she stressed.

Ms Lweno explained that the permit process is more than a formality, noting that it enables Ewura’s technical teams to inspect sites to ensure compliance with national standards, including fire safety systems, environmental protection measures, and safe distances from schools, hospitals, and residential areas. “This permit is essential because it allows our experts to confirm that construction meets the required health, safety, and environmental benchmarks,” she added.

The government has recently encouraged investment in fuel retailing, particularly in underserved rural areas where access to reliable energy remains a challenge. However, officials insist growth must be orderly.

Observers note a surge in applications to build fuel stations, driven by expanding road networks and growing demand for transport and logistics. Yet, unregulated construction risks accidents, fuel leakages, and breaches of urban planning laws.

At the Iringa meeting, one participant, Mr David Mlyapatali, praised Ewura’s outreach, saying many entrepreneurs enter the fuel retail business without understanding their obligations. “This meeting has been very beneficial because it has given us clarity on the procedures and our responsibilities,” he said.

Under the Petroleum Act and Ewura regulations, investors must first apply for a construction permit and undergo technical reviews before receiving an operating licence. Noncompliance can lead to fines, closure orders, or legal action.

Ms Lweno emphasised that Ewura welcomes investment but will not compromise on safety. “Follow the law first.

Doing so protects your business and the community you serve,” she stressed. The Iringa session is part of Ewura’s nationwide drive to sensitise fuel station investors about construction and operational rules, signalling clearly that shortcuts will not be tolerated.

.

Tanzania to field four young cyclists at Grand Nairobi Jubilee ‘Live Free’ Race 2025

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania will be represented by four young cyclists at the Grand Nairobi Jubilee ‘Live Free’ Race 2025, set for October 5 in Nairobi, Kenya.

Organised by Jubilee Insurance, the event promotes healthy living, youth empowerment, and regional sporting unity. The Grand Nairobi Jubilee ‘Live Free’ Race 2025 is among East Africa’s premier cycling events, attracting competitors from across the region.

For Tanzania it presents an important platform to strengthen the country’s cycling culture and allow emerging athletes to compete internationally. The Tanzanian contingent comprises three men and one woman, selected through a rigorous national process by the Tanzania Cycling Association (TCA).

The participants are Ms Asnat Moris, Mr Frank Marik, Mr Hassan Sharif, and Mr Waziri Masoli. The Talent Development Committee at TCA, Chairperson, Dr Judith Mashala, said the team was chosen from a wide pool of talent identified through competitions held over the past two years.

“We are sending four young cyclists to represent Tanzania at the Grand Nairobi Jubilee ‘Live Free’ Race 2025. Our association organises competitions across the country, and these cyclists have proven themselves as the most capable,” she said. She noted the athletes recently competed in Rwanda and are now intensively preparing for Nairobi.

“This race is not just about competition. It promotes health, wellness, and community development,” she added.

Jubilee Health Insurance Chief Executive Officer, Dr Harold Adamson, said the partnership with TCA reflects the company’s commitment to the event and to youth development. “Our flag will fly high.

We are preparing well with this team of four. Sport promotes health and well-being, and we are creating opportunities for people to exercise and live healthier lives,” said Dr Adamson.

Jubilee Life Insurance Corporate Financial Officer, Mr Hillary Godson, emphasised the company’s commitment to youth through sport. “We are dedicated to standing with young people and helping them achieve their dreams.

Exercise is vital for daily life, enabling youth to live freely and without stress,” he said. “We work with communities to nurture talent.

Sport is talent, and we support the government’s efforts to empower youth through self-employment,” he added. The Grand Nairobi Jubilee ‘Live Free’ Race 2025 is expected to draw strong participation this year, with athletes from Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania vying for honours.

The event combines sport with community engagement, underscoring the values of unity, health, and youth development. For Tanzania, participation in the race is part of a broader strategy to raise the profile of cycling, nurture local talent, and inspire the next generation of sportspeople.

.

Diddy sentenced to four years in federal prison

Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs has been sentenced to 50 months in federal prison after being convicted on two counts of transporting individuals across state lines for prostitution. The ruling, delivered on Friday, October 3, 2025, by a Manhattan court, concludes a months-long trial that captivated the entertainment industry and the public alike.

Combs was arrested in September 2024 following a federal investigation into allegations of abuse, misconduct, and coercion, which culminated in his high-profile trial earlier this year. While acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering charges, prosecutors argued that Combs’ abuse of power and pattern of exploitation warranted a harsh penalty.

They had sought a sentence of more than 11 years, but Judge Arun Subramanian imposed a term of just over four years. Addressing the court, Combs described his past behaviour as “shameful and sick” and pleaded for leniency.

The judge acknowledged his philanthropic work but stressed that fame and success cannot excuse criminal conduct. Alongside his prison term, Combs was fined $500,000 and ordered to serve five years of supervised release.

The sentence marks a dramatic fall for the Bad Boy Records founder, who built a multibillion-dollar empire spanning music, fashion, and media. Combs’ legal team has vowed to appeal, signalling that the case is far from over.

His conviction comes amid broader scrutiny of the entertainment industry over exploitation and abuse. Legal analysts say the ruling could have lasting implications, potentially influencing how courts handle cases involving high-profile figures and abuse of power.

Supporters of Combs expressed shock at the sentence, while victims’ rights advocates described it as a measure of justice. The trial also sparked wider debate about accountability for public figures, the influence of celebrity culture, and the law’s reach.

Combs, once considered one of the most influential figures in global entertainment, now faces a future defined by his conviction. As the appeal process begins, the case is certain to remain a major talking point within legal and cultural circles.

.

Samia promises equitable development in Babati rally

Babati. The CCM presidential candidate, President Samia Suluhu Hassan, has reiterated her government’s commitment to ensuring that Manyara citizens equally benefit from development in key sectors such as internet access, agriculture, livestock keeping, and business opportunities.

President Hassan made the remarks on Saturday, October 4, 2025, during a campaign rally held in Babati District, Manyara Region. Addressing the rally, President Hassan said sectors like the internet, agriculture, livestock, and business are key components in driving local economies and improving livelihoods.

She also mentioned that such efforts “have been expanded through national development,” with education and schools receiving particular attention. “No one will be left behind.

We must all work together for collective progress,” she said, repeating the phrase “tasipana” several times during her address, calling for unity and shared responsibility. The ruling party’s presidential hopeful referred to the progress made in the tourism sector, noting that Tanzania has now reached five million tourist arrivals.

She said the figure was guided by the national development plan. Efforts will continue to attract more visitors to local destinations, further boosting the tourism sector’s growth.

“Tourism now contributes significantly, whether through honey or other resources,” said President Hassan, emphasising the need to continue promoting tourism-linked activities at the community level. In her speech, she also touched on water resource development, saying the government has already allocated funding to construct infrastructure that will address challenges in water access, particularly in lake regions, including Babati.

“This period may be slightly challenging, but we are moving forward. The government has disbursed funds for installing systems to manage water bodies, not only in Babati but across the lake regions,” she said.

President Hassan cited the current manifesto as a reference point for the plans being implemented in cooperation with local communities. “We must implement local strategies and development actions by working together with the people,” she stressed.

The rally in Babati was attended by party supporters, government officials, and residents from various parts of Manyara Region. The CCM parliamentary candidate for Babati Urban, Mr Emmanuel Khambay, pledged major reforms in the education sector and economic empowerment initiatives if elected in the upcoming general election.

He emphasised the need to modernise Tanzania’s education curriculum to meet current job market demands. “We must shift from outdated syllabuses and focus on practical skills that will empower our children to be employable or to employ themselves,” he said, adding that, unlike previous years, today’s youth must be given the tools to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.

Mr Khambay noted that the current curriculum does not fully prepare students for the realities of the job market. He stressed the importance of aligning education with technological advancements and modern-day challenges.

“This is no longer the era of theoretical learning alone. We must equip our youth with 21st-century knowledge and skills,” he said.

He promised to prioritise investment in infrastructure, including schools, health centres, and road networks, to unlock the region’s economic potential. “With better infrastructure and strong economic policies, the people of Babati will not only improve their living standards but also contribute meaningfully to national growth,” he said.

The rally, attended by hundreds of supporters, also featured remarks from the former Babati MP who served in the previous parliamentary term, Mr Christopher Ole Sendeka, who praised the people of Babati for their unity and resilience, urging them to remain focused on development. “We have had our share of challenges, but we have always stood together.

The people of Babati have shown unity, trust, and love for one another,” he said, insisting on the persistence of that spirit. Mr Sendeka endorsed Mr Khambay’s candidacy, expressing confidence in his leadership and vision for the constituency.

“I believe he has what it takes to bring progress to Babati Urban. Let us give him our full support,” he added.

.

Chinese firm Invests in Ogun’s power grid, industrial development in new deal

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has announced a strategic partnership with Chinese investors aimed at enhancing the state’s energy infrastructure and expanding its industrial capacity.

In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, the governor revealed that discussions were held with the Jiangsu-based energy company Cteec. Talks focused on financing opportunities, technical expertise, and the company’s readiness to deliver key energy projects in the state.

Governor Abiodun noted that the engagement centred around three major areas of collaboration: Strengthening power transmission and distribution across the state; establishing an Industrial Park designed to attract Chinese manufacturers and integrate power solutions, and installing a free 3MW power plant at the Gateway International Cargo Airport to support immediate operations.

‘Our discussions highlighted three critical components of our partnership: the reinforcement of Ogun’s electricity infrastructure, the creation of a manufacturing hub powered by reliable energy, and the installation of a 3MW power facility at our airport, which will immediately catalyse activity at that important location,’ Abiodun stated.

The governor also disclosed that the Chinese delegation would inspect ongoing distribution and power infrastructure projects executed by Sahara and Powergen, as part of wider efforts to secure a stable energy supply for the state.

According to Abiodun, Cteec already has an existing investment portfolio of 100MW in Nigeria and is now seeking to expand its footprint. The company’s interests include power generation and distribution, investment in a dedicated state transmission network, and the development of an Industrial Park to attract further Chinese manufacturers to Ogun State.

‘This partnership is yet another testament to our unwavering commitment to building the energy backbone that will support Ogun State’s industrialisation and long-term economic development,’ the governor added.

In related developments, the Gateway International Airport in Iperu-Ilishan is gearing up for commercial operations. Reports indicate that inaugural flights from the airport to Abuja have sold out, with tickets for subsequent days also fully booked , signalling strong demand and readiness of the facility to serve as a key aviation hub in Nigeria.

‘Our vision has always been to leave a legacy of sustainable development and inclusive growth. From constructing roads that ease transportation of people and goods, to developing affordable housing, we remain committed to improving the quality of life for our citizens,’ said Abiodun.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority officially granted the Gateway International Airport its Aerodrome Operational Permit in August 2025. Passenger flight services are scheduled to commence on 7 October 2025, with Value Jet Airline operating flights twice weekly.

Gani Fawehinmi lives on as Nigeria Weekly Law Report celebrates 40th Anniversary

Memories of legal icon, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN, came alive on Thursday, when lawyerss and workers of the Nigerian Weekly Law Report he left behind 16 years ago gathered at the Headquarters of the publication at Alausa Ikeja, Lagos to celebrate 40th anniversary of the publication.

The lawyers and other workers who have been with the company and its subsidiary for over 38 years told journalists that celebrating the enduring legacy of the legal icon is a reflection on four decades of consistent law reporting while unveiling future innovations aimed at strengthening access to justice.

A commemorative event to mark the 40th anniversary, according to the Chairman of the planning committee, Barrister Oluwole Kehinde, will feature the former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) who will deliver a key note address.

Besides, Barrister Kehinde, who is the Editor of NWLR hinted that he event which will be chaired by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun will also host jurists, legal scholars, publishers, and Judicial media professionals.

He said the theme of the anniversary, ‘Safeguarding the Legacy of Law Reporting and Embracing the Future in Technology,’ underscores the dual focus of preserving the rich heritage of law reporting while embracing digital innovations that shape modern legal practice.

He said, ‘the Nigerian Law Report, first published on October 1, 1985, holds the distinction of being the first dedicated law reports in Nigeria and across Africa, the publication succeeded where other publications that preceded it failed.’

‘Since its maiden edition released on Nigeria’s 25th Independence Day, the publication has provided weekly compilations of court decisions, thereby making the law accessible to judges, lawyers, researchers, and students.’

He also said the celebration was not only about looking back at the achievements of the past, but also about projecting into the future. ‘Forty years of uninterrupted publication is a rare feat in Africa’s publishing and judicial history. The Nigerian Law Report has become an indispensable tool for justice delivery, and today we celebrate both its legacy and its promise,’ he said.

The Chairman of the Editorial Board, Mr. Ayo Olanrewaju, described the NWLR as ‘the conscience of legal reporting in Nigeria,’ noting that it has consistently maintained editorial independence and a rigorous standard of accuracy.

Also present was Mr. Mojeed Ajao, immediate past Managing Director of the Nigerian Law Publications Limited, who highlighted the innovations the publication has embraced over the years.

The Acting Managing Director, Mr Gbenga Ogunleye, recalled that in 2019, the Nigerian Law Report launched its online platform, making thousands of judgments available digitally.

‘We realized that the future of law reporting must be driven by technology, and that step has allowed practitioners and researchers across the world to access Nigerian jurisprudence at the click of a button.’

Ogunleye, however, praised the Nigerian Law Report for ‘democratizing access to judicial precedents’ and called for further innovations, including artificial intelligence-driven search tools and wider open-access platforms.

From its humble beginnings in 1985 to becoming Africa’s longest-running specialized law report, the NLR has played a critical role in strengthening Nigeria’s legal framework. Its consistent weekly publications have ensured that court decisions an essential component of the nation’s laws are readily accessible to the bench, the bar, and the wider public.

‘As the Nigerian Law Report steps into its fifth decade, stakeholders pledged to uphold its founding vision while harnessing technology to advance justice delivery. The celebration not only highlighted a remarkable journey of consistency but also pointed the way to a more innovative and accessible future in Nigerian law reporting.’

Other notable attendees included members of the editorial board such as Senior Editor, Simon Evivie, Yinka Olatunji, Snr. Deputy Editor and Editorial Secretary, NWLR; Chidinma Ojigwe, Assistant Editor, NWLR and Secretary, 40th Anniversary Planning Committee, as well as representatives of the board of Directors.

16 Nigerian military officers to face trial for indiscipline – DHQ

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says a total of 16 officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria are to face military justice over alleged acts of indiscipline and breach of service regulations.

This is contained in a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, on Saturday in Abuja.

Gusau said the officers were apprehended during a routine military exercise following investigations into various acts considered inconsistent with military discipline and service ethics.

According to him, findings revealed that some of the officers’ grievances were linked to perceived career stagnation arising from repeated failure in promotion examinations and other service-related issues.

‘Some of the apprehended officers had earlier been under jurisdiction for various offences, either awaiting or undergoing trial.

‘Their conduct was found incompatible with the standards of the military service,’ he said.

Gusau explained that upon conclusion of investigations, all indicted personnel would face appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with the Armed Forces Act and established military justice procedures.

He said that the ongoing action was purely disciplinary and part of routine efforts to preserve order, discipline and professionalism in the armed forces.

He assured the public that the military remained committed to upholding its core values of loyalty, integrity, and constitutional obedience under democratic authority.

‘The Armed Forces of Nigeria will not tolerate any behaviour that undermines its cohesion or threatens its constitutional role.

The military remains fully committed to professionalism and the defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty,’ he added.

Nigerian troops kill scores of terrorists, rescue 180 from kidnappers

Nigeria’s military has listed killing of many terrorists, arrest of 450 suspects, and rescue of 180 kidnapped victims among the achievements of its troops involved in ongoing counter-insurgency and anti-banditry operations nationwide in September.

Also, 39 terrorists voluntarily surrendered, while troops recovered 63 assorted arms, and 4,475 rounds of ammunition within the month, Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, stated this in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.

Kangye listed some of the items recovered to include grenades, IED-making materials, communication gadgets, vehicles, motorcycles, and logistics supplies used in perpetrating crimes.

Giving breakdown of the operations, Kangye said in the North East, troops of Joint Task Force (JTF) North East, Operation HADIN KAI, had sustained momentum against Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States.

He said the troops operations led to the elimination of several terrorists and the arrest of 21 collaborators, informants, and sympathisers, with a large cache of arms and ammunition in Konduga, Gwoza, Mafa, Monguno, Damboa, Biu, and Kukawa.

Kangye said the troops also dismantled terrorist camps, intercepted logistics networks, and supported the safe return of displaced persons to their ancestral homes.

In the North West, Kangye said the troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA carried out clearance and rescue operations in Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, and Kaduna States.

He added that troops killed many bandits and apprehended 46 suspects, including a wanted terrorist kingpin, Ali Saidu.

According to him, a total of 13 kidnapped victims were rescued during these operations, which also disrupted key bandit supply routes in Maradun, Isa, and Sabon Birni Local Government Areas.

‘Under Operation ENDURING PEACE, troops responded to distress calls and conducted clearance operations in Plateau and Kaduna States, where several extremists were neutralised, 12 suspects arrested, and 4 kidnapped victims rescued.

‘Similarly, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE neutralised criminals and arrested six suspects in Benue, Taraba, Kogi, Nasarawa States, and parts of the FCT, rescuing two kidnapped victims,’ he said.

In the South East, Kangye said the troops of Operation UDO KA neutralised terrorists and apprehended four others, with weapons, ammunition, vehicles, and improvised explosive devices recovered in Anambra and Imo States.

Kangye reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to restoring peace and stability across all parts of the country, working closely with other security agencies and Hybrid Forces.

‘Our gallant troops will continue to sustain offensive operations and intelligence-driven missions until lasting peace is achieved in all troubled parts of Nigeria,’ he said.

Chief Adeoluwa Adeshola Michael to Receive Two Prestigious Egba Chieftaincy Titles

It is with immense joy and pride that we announce the conferment of two prestigious chieftaincy titles on Chief Adeoluwa Michael Adeshola (popularly known as Billionaire), the Group Chief Executive Officer of Arzikin Noma Nigeria Limited, by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo III, The Alake of Egbaland, in commemoration of the monarch’s 20th Coronation Anniversary.

On Saturday, 26th October, 2025, Chief Adeoluwa Michael Adeshola will be formally conferred with the title of Fiwagbayi of Ijaye-Kurunmi Egba.

The celebrations will then reach their height on Friday, 15th November, 2025, when His Imperial Majesty will bestow upon him the distinguished title of Aare Akinfimitotolu of Egbaland, during the grand anniversary event at Ake Palace, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

As Group CEO of Arzikin Noma Nigeria Limited, Chief Adeshola has carved a strong reputation as a visionary leader and an innovative entrepreneur. Under his stewardship, the company has expanded its footprints in agribusiness, fostering partnerships across Africa to promote food security, sustainable farming, and job creation. Most recently, Arzikin Noma entered into strategic collaborations with international agribusiness partners to scale production, empower thousands of smallholder farmers, and introduce cutting-edge processing technologies into Nigeria’s agricultural value chain.

His numerous achievements in business and philanthropy are a testament to his resilience, ingenuity, and passion for excellence. These honors by the Alake are a recognition of his contributions not only to industry but also to community development, culture, and the enduring legacy of Egbaland.

We warmly invite family, friends, associates, and well-wishers to join us in celebrating these historic moments.

The event is to take place at the Ake Palace, Abeokuta, Ogun State on the 26th of October, 2025. Aare Akinfimitotolu Title and 20th Anniversary of The Alake: 15th November, 2025. Come and rejoice with us as we honor tradition, celebrate leadership, and pay tribute to the rich heritage of Egbaland.

BBNaija Season 10: Why Imisi will win the $150,000 star prize

Imisi’s fans can’t get enough of her. She has continued to serve content, back-to-back, in Biggie’s house. This is the stuff of winners. This is how winners are made, not born. This is how stars are hewn from stone and immortalised.

Welcome to Opeyemi Ayanwale, the 23-year-old, Lagos-born, Ebute-Meta-bred BBNaija Season 10 housemate, better known as Imisi. If her performance, vibes, and content-whether acted or real, staged or spontaneous-are anything to go by, she is undoubtedly the winner of this year’s BBNaija Season 10 reality show.

At the end of the day, when all the chips are down, when the dust has settled, and all eyes are clear, she will cart away the $150,000 star prize.

Still, the question on everyone’s lips is: Who is this Imisi who, as she rightly told a fellow housemate, is a ‘nemesis’? Who is this Yoruba girl from Ebute-Meta who often finds it difficult to express herself in English and prefers speaking her mother tongue, Yoruba-a trait that earned her Biggie’s big stick and a temporary punishment of silence? Who is this girl that many find hard to figure out?

The truth is, Imisi stole the hearts of her fans and arguably won the reality show the very first day she stepped into Biggie’s house. That singular act of removing her wig as she entered the house got everyone’s attention. ‘This is a star to watch,’ they all seemed to be saying.

Throughout the 10 weeks she spent in the house, she never disappointed. She consistently delivered content to her numerous fans across the African continent.

This year’s competition is undeniably stiff, with equally talented housemates like Faith (who has since been disqualified), Koyin, Jason Jae, Sultana, and Dede, to mention a few. But the truth remains: Imisi stands head and shoulders above them all.

No matter how hard her competitors’ fans try to stop her from clinching the prize, it will amount to nothing. Imisi’s weapon of mass destruction-her intercontinental ballistic charisma-knows no borders. Her appeal cuts across the entire African continent.

There’s something uncanny about her-something that makes her fans burst into laughter whenever she speaks, acts, or makes facial expressions. These are the traits that endear her to them. And in return, they simply can’t get enough of her.

At the moment, her fans are anxious. They are waiting with bated breath for the D-Day, now just a few hours away. They are praying that she doesn’t make a mistake or slip up-a fate that has previously befallen fan favourites in earlier seasons.

Other housemates who are strong contenders this season, as mentioned earlier, include Koyin, Jason Jae, Sultana, and Dede. These, alongside Imisi, make up the top five. But at the end of the day, it is ‘victoria e certa’-a certain victory-for the girl with the red dot on her forehead, her signature look.