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As the global efforts toward clean energy rises, Nigeria the giant of Africa though not left out, stands at a critical crossroads. One where economic ambition and environmental responsibility must find common ground. With a growing population, expanding industries, and deep reliance on fossil fuels, the nation faces the delicate challenge of powering its future without compromising the planet’s sustainability. The question is not whether Nigeria will transition to cleaner energy, but how and how fast.

The Challenge of Dual Realities: Nigeria remains Africa’s largest oil producer, and petroleum exports continue to be a backbone of the national economy. Yet, while oil revenues drive government income, they also expose the nation to price shocks and global energy market volatility. Meanwhile, millions of Nigerians still lack access to stable electricity. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), over 85 million Nigerians about 40% of the population live without electricity. For many, kerosene lamps and petrol/diesel generators remain the norm. This paradox vast energy wealth but limited access underscores the urgency of an inclusive energy transition.

Steps toward a Cleaner Future: The Nigerian government has begun taking steps toward a greener energy pathway. The Energy Transition Plan (ETP) launched in 2022 aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2060, while expanding access to affordable energy for all Nigerians. Key pillars of the plan include investing in solar power, natural gas as a transition fuel, electric mobility, and clean cooking solutions for households. The ETP also emphasizes the creation of green jobs, targeting over 300,000 new opportunities in the renewable sector by 2030. The private sector is already playing a vital role. Solar mini-grid projects are lighting up rural communities in some states in the country. Also Companies like Arnergy, Lumos Nigeria and Schon Peesol Energy are helping various businesses and organisations power operations through solar systems, while startups such as Rensource are pioneering decentralized renewable energy models. These efforts show that clean energy is not only about protecting the climate, it’s about unlocking economic empowerment and social progress.

The Role of Natural Gas: Given Nigeria’s rich gas reserves, the largest in Africa, natural gas is positioned as the ‘bridge fuel’ between dirty and clean energy sources. Experts argue that gas can support industrial growth and electricity generation while reducing reliance on more polluting fuels like diesel and coal. However, the success of this strategy depends on investment in infrastructure; pipelines, distribution networks, and storage facilities alongside strict environmental safeguards to prevent methane leakage, a potent greenhouse gas.

Policy, Partnerships, and People: Nigeria’s transition cannot succeed on government policy alone. It requires strong partnerships between Federal and State authorities, private investors, international donors, and most importantly, local communities. The federal government’s recent partnership with the African Development Bank and the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa aims to mobilize billions in renewable energy investments. Meanwhile, community led solar cooperatives are emerging as a grassroots solution to Nigeria’s chronic power deficit. Public education also plays a role. As renewable energy expands, citizens must understand its benefits not just for the environment, but for household budgets and national resilience. A shift in mindset, from dependence on generators to adoption of sustainable technologies, will define the success of this journey.

Transitioning from fossil fuels to renewables will not be easy. It demands large-scale funding, technological capacity, and political will. Yet, the cost of inaction is far greater worsening pollution, rising fuel costs, and missed economic opportunities in a rapidly decarbonizing world.

Nigeria’s energy future must balance ambition with realism. The path forward is not about abandoning oil overnight, but about diversifying energy sources, investing in innovation, and ensuring that no citizen is left behind. As the sun sets on the age of oil, a new dawn of clean energy is rising across Nigeria. The nation’s challenge and opportunity lies in ensuring that this light shines on every home, business, and village. If managed wisely, Nigeria’s energy transition could become a global model proving that growth and sustainability are not opposing goals, but twin engines driving the nation toward a brighter, greener tomorrow.

A former Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO) of First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, has hailed President Bola Tinubu and his Economic Management Team for what he described as a rebound and upward swing of the economy.

Noting that it would amount to loss of professionalism for anyone who fail to recognise the ongoing efforts of the current administration, Adeduntan noted that although, there is room for improvement, there is no doubt that economy has been turned around.

The business executive and financial expert spoke while featuring as a guest at the state-owned Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), Bashorun, Ibadan live television and radio show which was monitored by The Nation.

Appearing as the Guest of the Month, the interview focused on the state of the Nation.

Adeduntan, who is also the Pro-Chancellor, Abiola Ajimobi Technical University, however urged the President not to lose focus but keep accelerating on the mission of transforming the economy.

He added that, people at the grassroots will feel the direct impact of the Economic improvement when the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) doubles.

According to him: ‘There is being a rebound in the economic. One will loss his professionalism if you fail to recognise what is going on with the economy.

‘One must give a lot of credit to what has been achieved by the current administration. The economy is on an upward swing.

‘There are areas for improvement but you can’t but acknowledge President Bola Tinubu and his team efforts on the economy. They are ding a lot and improving the economy despite challenges.

‘For the country to fully feel the impact of the growth, we need to do like the rate of GDP growth.

‘The Federal and State Governments have both been involved in massive constructions all around. Their policy choices, sequences could be a challenge but the directions need to be harmonised.

‘What has been done is pushing growth beyond where it has been over there years. When we start growing at eight or nine percent, we will see more impact. The growth rate is stronger now than what it used to be.’

Speaking on the agriculture and other sectors, Dr Adeduntan also noted that, the country has made significant progress in the sector, noting that years back, the country spend huge foreign exchange (forex) on rice importation, but that production, especially in rice cultivation has improved.

‘In truth, the country has made significant progress in agriculture. Some 10 to 15years ago, we spend huge forex on rice importation, but in the last few years, we have improved our production especially in rice cultivation.

‘A number of the transformation ongoing are not short term basis but medium and long term so we may not have started feeling the impact. The journey into diversification Is what will take time, but the good things is that the journey has started and we are on course.

‘I agree with the direction the government is going. What I think that the President needs to do more is to keep Accelerating and remain focus. The government has been pushing aggressively policies that are right,’ he added.

He urged the government to allow more price liberalisation than price control.

‘Parts of that needs to happen is price realisation, not regulation. liberalisatuon of prices as it relates to subsidy removal and currency harmonisation is that people now have the privilege to enjoy realistic gains.

‘I have seen significant returns come to people in the agricultural sector. Our agriculture is not where it should be but it is not where it used to be.

‘Things are moving forward even though we need to move faster. If government can replicate what has been done done with rice sector of agricultural, things would be lot better. Our agriculture needs to be done at industrial scale and the government is also a bit more into the livestock sector.’

Ghana’s Jospong Group of Companies-has positioned itself as one of the continent’s strongest advocates for a circular economy that transforms garbage into economic opportunity.

It is reshaping how Africa manages its waste. What began as Ghana’s response to a growing urban waste crisis has expanded into a continental model that cleans cities, creates jobs, and generates wealth from materials once regarded as useless.

Founder and Chief Executive Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, said the Group’s mission is rooted in the belief that waste should not be seen as a burden but as an asset that can drive industrialization and prosperity. ‘We built this company on the idea that waste is not a nuisance to be discarded but a resource to be harnessed. Every plastic bottle, food residue, or electronic component has economic value if handled properly,’ he stated.

As cities across Africa face mounting environmental challenges, Jospong has built a system that treats waste management as a full-value chain-from collection to recycling and re-use. The group’s flagship company, Zoomlion Ghana Limited, is now one of Africa’s largest waste management firms.

With a vast fleet of trucks and thousands of sanitation workers, Zoomlion operates across all 16 regions of Ghana, ensuring that cities remain clean while waste is converted into raw materials for new industries.

‘Our philosophy is simple: to turn a problem into an opportunity,’ Dr. Agyepong said. ‘By integrating technology and manpower, we are not just cleaning up our environment-we are building a sustainable economy that benefits everyone.’

In a bid to advance menstrual hygiene, cleanliness, and dignity for the girl child, the Queen Jennifer Ephraim Foundation has launched the Pad-A-Girl Campaign initiative in Abuja.

The campaign, themed ‘She Matters,’ is part of the foundation’s commitment to building a healthier, stronger, and more compassionate society through education and support.

It underscores the importance of ensuring that every girl receives love, care, and equal opportunities to thrive.

During a visit to Government Junior Secondary School, Dutse Sagwari, the founder, Jennifer Ephraim, said the initiative was conceived to educate young girls on proper menstrual hygiene practices.

She noted that many women in her generation were denied such awareness because menstruation was often treated as a taboo topic.

Ephraim reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to empowering young Nigerian girls and helping them reach their full potential through continuous support and education.

In her remarks, the school’s Vice Principal (Administration), Mrs. Okafor Fidelia, expressed gratitude to the foundation for selecting the school as one of the beneficiaries of the outreach.

Veteran actress Tonto Dike joined the outreach team, demonstrating to students how to properly use and dispose of sanitary pads.

Also part of the team was Abuja-based PR consultant and media personality, Alex Nwankwo, popularly known as AlexReports, among others.

The students expressed excitement and appreciation, not only for the free sanitary kits distributed but also for the valuable awareness created through the interactive session.

Jennifer Chisom Ephraim, a fast-rising Nollywood actress and founder of the foundation, leverages her influence and creativity to promote social causes and contribute to the growth of the Nigerian entertainment industry.

Alhaji Dr. Mutiu Adewale Badmus, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Al-Haytq Travels and Tours Ltd,and Chairman and Managing Director of Freefly Travel Management turned 49 recently.

Family members, friends, associates, and well-wishers across Nigeria and beyond, joined in celebrating this visionary entrepreneur, humanitarian, and role model, whose impact continues to inspire hope and excellence in countless lives.

Over the years, Badmus has built an outstanding reputation as a trailblazer in the travel and tourism industry, transforming Al-Haytq Travels into one of Nigeria’s most trusted and reputable travel brands. His leadership style-anchored on integrity, innovation, and service-reflects his deep belief in hard work, faith, and the power of opportunities.

Beyond his professional achievements, Badmus has distinguished himself through philanthropy and youth empowerment initiatives that uplift communities and create pathways for others to succeed.

His unwavering support for educational development, vocational training, and charitable causes stands as a testament to his compassionate spirit and commitment to nation-building.

At 49, Badmus continues to inspire a new generation of dreamers and doers, reminding Nigerian youth that success is built on discipline, consistency, and the courage to pursue one’s purpose despite challenges. His journey from humble beginnings to national recognition underscores the values of resilience and grace that define true greatness.

The Voice of African Universities (VAU) has condemned what it described as a ‘malicious and targeted blackmail attempt’ against a faculty member and the Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria (MAAUN), Kano.

In a statement by the organisation’s Vice President for Higher Education Development, Fafana Khalidou, the incident arose after a parent and student allegedly attempted to bypass standard examination procedures.

The parent reportedly appeared uninvited at an examination venue, demanding that his daughter be allowed to sit for an exam without the requisite exam clearance card.

When the supervising lecturer, Dr. M. Adamu, insisted on compliance with university regulations, the situation allegedly escalated into a verbal confrontation.

The parent and student were accused of covertly recording the exchange, editing the footage to misrepresent the lecturer’s actions, and circulating it on social media in an apparent bid to discredit both the academic and the university.

VAU described the act as ‘a calculated attempt to undermine institutional integrity and academic governance.’

‘No individual – regardless of wealth, family background, or social connections – is above institutional rules,’ the statement reads. ‘Respect for ethics and due process is the foundation upon which higher education stands.’

VAU praised Dr. Adamu’s ‘measured and principled response,’ which it said exemplified professionalism under provocation.

The organisation expressed zero tolerance for attempts to intimidate or blackmail educators performing their lawful duties, adding that such incidents threaten the very fabric of academic freedom and fairness.

‘The lecturer’s response – reminding the parent that ethics must be respected regardless of status – was both appropriate and commendable,’ Khalidou said. ‘It is unacceptable for educators to be vilified for upholding standards.’

VAU also commended MAAUN for taking prompt disciplinary and legal measures to address the matter. The body called for a thorough investigation and appropriate sanctions against those responsible, in accordance with university statutes.

‘We will continue to monitor developments and advocate for stronger safeguards across African universities against similar abuses,’ the statement noted.

The incident, VAU warned, reflects a growing trend of individuals using influence or social media manipulation to subvert academic rules.

The organisation urged universities across Africa to stand together in defending merit-based systems and protecting educators from undue pressure.

According to GTI Asset Management and Trust Limited , the TNFF is designed to transform Nigerian football into a profitable enterprise and a national asset. In pursuit of this goal, GTI recently convened key stakeholders from the NPFL, the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), and various media agencies in Lagos to discuss the football economy and strategies to promote the NPFL nationwide.

According to NPFL chairman, Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye, GTI’s involvement is crucial for the league’s revival. He acknowledged that the NPFL had faced significant challenges in the past but assured stakeholders of a renewed commitment to transparency and reform, essential for attracting investment.

‘ GTI is God-sent to the NPFL,’ NPFL chairman, Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye, said matter-of-factly, assuring that with constant reforms and transparency, the domestic league would in no distant future becomes financially viable and stable.

He continued: ‘For investors to come into the system, there must be transparency. ‘When StarTimes came, they wanted a 10 year deal but we insisted on a shorter period in order to prove our worth.

‘Now, the world can see that we are capable of running a quality league.’

Elegbeleye highlighted the importance of discipline within the league, stating that strict measures have been implemented for referees and clubs to ensure fairness, which has improved the league’s competitive nature.

‘Any referee found guilty of misconduct will be sanctioned immediately. Likewise, any club that fails to comply with league rules will lose points. For instance, Kano Pillars lost three points after breaching the rules. These steps have helped restore sanity and discipline in our league,’ he said.

He also noted a significant increase in the prize money for league champions, rising from ?100 million to N200 million, demonstrating a commitment to rewarding excellence in Nigerian football. Furthermore, he emphasized the vital role of media in conveying positive narratives about the league, which can facilitate discussions on media rights and attract sponsors.

‘Without journalists, we would not be here,’ Elegbeleye further said. ‘You have projected our league to a confident level and with more positive engagements on the league, investors will take us seriously.’

Nelson Ine, Executive Director at GTI, stressed the necessity for collective investment in the NPFL through the TNFF, referencing the extensive reach of Nigerian football, with approximately 380 matches held annually across various locations.

‘ We have to pull together for the survival of NPFL and ultimately, the Nigerian football economy,’ the well-versed Ine said.’ But if you don’t invest, you can’t expect.

‘But we can all invest (in TNFF) today and reap bountifully in the future.’

He said with Nigeria’s huge population, sponsors and advertisers can take advantage of reaching out to the masses through the FRCN live commentaries for instance.

‘Though we all agreed that ‘football is Nigeria and Nigeria is football’ because of the deep emotional attachment to the game yet the NPFL has no single big sponsor and even a small African country, Tanzania, has invested about $12 million USD for five years on their league ,’ he said.

He called on both individuals and corporations to seize the investment opportunity presented by the TNFF and highlighted Nigeria’s large population as an advantage for potential sponsors and advertisers.

He added: ‘At GTI, we have accepted to be the ‘burden bearer’ with the launch of the TNFF and it’s about time individuals and Corporate Nigeria, stand up to invest in the NPFL. In tears and pains, we are doing this because we believe that if we don’t stand up, who is going to stand up for Nigerian football as we are currently doing for the NPFL and The President Federation Cup.

‘Our media agencies, have a lot of work to do because this league, NPFL, is your responsibility and it’s you that can intervene with advertisers and investors because if you continue to tell them positive stories about the league, they would come and invest in the league.’

The management of FRCN is also on board, promising to utilize its extensive network to promote the NPFL and benefit advertisers. They are broadcasting match commentaries in multiple Nigerian languages to engage a broader audience.

Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed condolences to President of Belemaoil Group, Tein Jack-Rich over the death of his uncle, Dr. Harrison Tiger.

Shettima, who led tributes for the late Tiger, described Jack-Rich as a friend and a good man devoted to serving humanity.

Other dignitaries who paid condolence visits include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Moroccan Ambassador Moha Ouali Tagma, Emir of Borgu Kingdom Dr. Muhammed Sani Dantoro, former Governors Rabiu Kwankwaso and Attahiru Bafarawa, business mogul Alhaji Dahiru Mangal, and former Minister Dr. Emeka Nwajiuba.

The leadership of Arewa 100% Focus, a prominent northern youth group, also visited, underscoring Jack-Rich’s widespread respect and admiration.

‘I’m here to commiserate with Jack-Rich over the sad demise of his uncle. May God grant the family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,’ Shettima said, highlighting Jack-Rich’s philanthropic efforts in drilling boreholes and empowering communities.

‘He is a bridge builder who deserves to be celebrated,’ the vice president added.

As the Sarkin Ruwan Hausawa, Jack-Rich is admired for his compassion, humility, and dedication to humanity.

His philanthropic efforts in education, healthcare, and empowerment have transformed countless lives.

Jack-Rich expressed gratitude to Vice President Shettima and President Bola Tinubu for their condolences.

He said: ‘I want to thank Mr. President for sending the Vice President to condole the family on account of the demise of my uncle, who was like a father. And also thanking the Vice President, my great friend, for coming despite his busy schedule.’

In a statement, Jack-Rich thanked everyone for support, saying, ‘Today is a great outcome, not just for me, but also for the greater good of believers in the movement of our party.

‘I want to thank the ambassadors for coming, thank all the well-meaning Nigerians, thank my former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, Kwakwanso and other great Nigerians and lovers of peace, and lovers of the good of this country.’

Renowned leaders have lauded Jack-Rich as a paragon of unity and generosity, a man whose bridge-building spirit and deep sense of service reflect the true essence of Nigeria’s diversity.

Legendary Afro-Juju musician, Sir Shina Peters, has revealed the unusual strategy used to rebuild his public image after he left Prince Adekunle’s band.

According to the ‘Ace’ star, the unusual strategy involved being styled like a madman and paraded in public to change the public narrative.

The veteran musician made the shocking revelation during his appearance on ‘The Honest Bunch podcast,’ where he opened up on the backlash he faced after parting ways with his former band.

‘When I left Prince Adekunle’s band, people protested against me, saying that I left my father because of money,’ Sir Shina Peters recounted. ‘Then, the owner of my record label, Tunde Savage, who was the marketing director of Daily Times, alongside the weekend editor of Concord Newspapers and Evening Times editor, all came up with an idea.’

According to the ‘Ace’ crooner, his record label boss designed a publicity stunt that would evoke sympathy and reshape public perception about him.

‘The owner of the label called me one day and said I would plate my hair and not loosen it for three days. He also asked me to tear some of my old clothes, which I did,’ he narrated. ‘On the third day, they loosened the hair but didn’t comb it. Then I wore the torn clothes, and they took me to Oyingbo Market to buy ewedu. As I was buying it, they captured everything on camera, but I didn’t know what they were up to.’

The dramatization didn’t end there. Sir Shina Peters said they later took him to Badagry, where Julius Berger was constructing an overhead bridge, and instructed him to act like a mentally unstable person in public.

‘They asked me to eat like a madman all because the first day I left Prince Adekunle, people didn’t find it easy and were mad at me. So all the gimmicks were to change the narrative and earn empathy from fans,’ he explained.

The National Assembly Joint Committee on Constitution Review has unanimously endorsed the request for the creation of an additional State in the South East geopolitical zone.

The South East is the only zone with five States while others have six States with the exception of the North West with seven States.

The lawmakers endorsed the request at a two-day retreat in Lagos, where the committee reviewed 55 proposals for state creation across the country.

The session, chaired by the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, and co-chaired by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, deliberated extensively on the matter.

Kalu and other lawmakers from the South East have consistently championed the demand for an additional state for the region, reiterated that the request was anchored on principles of equity, justice, and fairness.

Members of the Committee who unanimously approved the request later took turns to deliberate on the issue, speaking in favour of granting the South East an additional state.

Following the deliberations, Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) moved a motion for the creation of the new state, which was seconded by Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka (Ifo/Ewekoro, Ogun State).

The motion received the unanimous support of committee members and was adopted.

In a related development, the joint committee also established a subcommittee to further consider the creation of additional states and local government areas across all six geopolitical zones, noting that a total of 278 proposals were submitted for review.

IJibrin urged members to rally support among their colleagues at the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly to ensure the resolutions sail through during voting.

‘We need to strengthen what we have started so that all parts of the country will key into this process,’ Jibrin said.

‘By the time we get to the actual voting, we should already have the buy-in of all stakeholders-from both chambers and the State Houses of Assembly.’