Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Home Blog

Solid Minerals Boom: Tinubu–Alake Reforms Drive Revenue from N16bn to Over N70bn in Two Years

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

 

 

By Segun Tomori

 

It is no happenstance that revenue from solid minerals has surged astronomically since the advent of the President Bola Tinubu administration.

 

From a paltry N16bn generated from the sector in 2023, it moved to N38bn in 2024 and now set to cross the N70bn mark under the stellar stewardship of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake.

 

Since assuming office, Alake has redirected global attention to the nation’s mining sector in a manner quite unprecedented. Armed with the now famous 7-point agenda, he hit the ground running with reforms that included the revocation of 1,633 licenses for default in payment of annual service fees in late 2023, while another 924 dormant licenses were revoked early 2024 to free up space for serious investors.

 

Guidelines for Community Development Agreements (CDAs) were also revised to make consent of host communities an integral part of license applications process whilst the elephant in the room – illegal mining, is being tackled with the establishment of the mining marshals in 2024. Just over one year after, over 300 illegal miners have been apprehended; about 150 undergoing prosecution; 98 illegal mining sites recovered. Nationwide satellite surveillance of mining sites is billed to come on stream in 2026 to bolster the capacity of the marshals.

 

Though mining belongs to the exclusive legislative list, the minister creatively introduced the principle of cooperative federalism to encourage States to apply for mining licenses and operate as Limited Liability Companies . This has produced tremendous results as several states now have Joint Venture (JV) partnerships that has yielded several investments in Nasarawa, Kaduna, Abuja, Oyo amongst others.

 

Today, Lithium factories are springing up, a $400m rare earth metals plant is in the offing and it is estimated that close to $1.5bn Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has been attracted to the sector since 2023.

 

On the global stage, Alake’s advocacy for local value addition – a major component of his 7-point agenda, that seeks to make processing or some form of refining of minerals mandatory before exports, has caught continental attention, leading to the establishment of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG).

 

The AMSG, a body of African Ministers of Solid Minerals/Mining unanimously elected Dr. Alake as pioneer chairman – a testament to how his vision has thrilled his colleagues and positioned Nigeria as leading the continent’s mining sector renaissance.

 

To enhance the ease of doing business in the sector, the Nigeria Minerals Decision Support System (NMRDSS) – a web based platform was established to attract investments and serve as a repository of information on geo-scientific and geo-economic data on Nigeria’s mineral resources featuring interactive mapping, geological data, infrastructure details amongst others.

 

I can go on and on, therefore, it is no surprise that we are set to cross the N70bn mark in 2025. Though unprecedented, it is still a drop in the ocean, considering the vast potentials of the mining sector.

 

We go again in 2026 to surpass this record by consolidating on reforms to ensure solid minerals ultimately becomes a major contributor to our nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

 

Happy New Year, in advance!

 

*Segun Tomori*, anipr, FSCA

 

Special Assistant on Media to the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development

No Victory in Rivers Without Wike,’ APC Chieftain Tells Governor Fubara

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

GOKANA, Rivers State — A top chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared that Governor Siminalayi Fubara cannot secure political victory in Rivers State without the backing of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, whom he described as the state’s undisputed leader.

The National Vice Chairman of the APC for the South-South, Hon. Victor Giadom, made the assertion on Tuesday during a visit by Wike to Gokana Local Government Area, stating that every electoral contest in the state must pass through the former governor.

“I guarantee… the Gokana people are for Wike and Tinubu. There is no political force here other than Wike,” Giadom said.

“For Governor Fubara to win anything here, he must pass through Wike.”

The event, organized as a thank-you tour by Wike, drew a coalition of political figures from both the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), underscoring the minister’s cross-party influence in the oil-rich state.

Political Heavyweights Pledge Allegiance

Former Senator Magnus Abe reinforced Giadom’s position, stating that the people of Gokana had already chosen their political direction.

“Wike is a unifier, and that is why we are united. If you follow Wike, you will not go home empty-handed,” Abe said.

“Tell President Tinubu not to bother campaigning in Gokana; we are already for him.”

The Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Dumle Maol, and the Chairman of Gokana Local Government, Mr. Confidence Deko, also pledged total loyalty to Wike and President Bola Tinubu, describing the area as a “no-go zone” for opposing forces.

Wike Preaches Unity, Patience

In his response, Wike said his visit was solely to appreciate the people for their longstanding support and commended their unity behind the Tinubu administration.

“When you are united, good things will come,” Wike stated, urging the community to remain patient and follow their leaders when the time is right.

He also highlighted the collaborative political atmosphere in the state, noting the presence of both PDP and APC members at the gathering as evidence of cohesion under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The statements from key figures in Gokana signal deepening political realignments in Rivers State and present a direct challenge to Governor Fubara’s autonomy ahead of future elections.

 

Wike Vows Political Correction for Rivers by 2027, Signals Shift from Past ‘Mistake’

By
Ola Akinola
-
0

BORI, Rivers State — The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has declared that Rivers State will not repeat what he termed a “leadership mistake” in the 2027 elections, pledging that the error would be corrected when the time is right.

Wike, a former governor of Rivers, made the declaration on Thursday during a thank-you visit to Khana Local Government Area, where he expressed appreciation for the community’s support during the 2023 general elections.

“We will not make the same mistake again at the state level in 2027, but we will talk about it when the time comes,” Wike stated before a crowd of supporters in Bori, the traditional headquarters of Ogoniland.

“Just follow your leaders. Anywhere you see them going, that is where we are going.”

Though he did not specify the nature of the alleged error, Wike emphasised that leadership must reflect the collective will of the people rather than personal ambition, adding that elected officials are meant to serve, not pursue selfish agendas.

The minister insisted his visit was not for political campaigning but to thank the people of Khana for standing with him and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during what he described as a difficult political period.

“During the turbulent time, Khana stood with us when others were afraid,” he said. “Today, you are benefiting from good roads to the University of Environment and other projects because of the support of Mr President.”

He highlighted increased federal attention to Ogoniland under the Tinubu administration, including appointments and infrastructure projects, with more expected to follow.

Wike also noted a shift in political behaviour in Rivers, suggesting that future votes would be based on unity, trust, and development under the Renewed Hope Agenda rather than strict party loyalty.

Local Leaders Reaffirm Support

In his remarks, Rep. Dumnamene Dekor (APC–Khana) praised Wike and President Tinubu for restoring pride to Ogoniland and assured the minister of the people’s readiness to follow his political direction.

“Whatever you ask us to do, we shall do, and wherever you ask us to go, we shall go,” Dekor said.

Mrs. Barile Nwakoh, speaking for the women of Khana, said Wike continues to enjoy broad support in Rivers due to his sincerity and goodwill, adding that women in the area are prepared to mobilise for President Tinubu.

The Chairman of Khana Local Government, Dr. Thomas Bariere, thanked Wike for his consistent support, noting that backing Tinubu had brought tangible benefits to the area.

“When the right people are in office, good things happen,” Bariere said.

The event concluded with local leaders reaffirming their support for Wike and the Tinubu administration ahead of the next electoral cycle.

FCTA Launches Major Crackdown on Scrap Markets to Halt Vandalism of City Solar Lights

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched a major enforcement offensive against scrap and “pantaker” markets across Abuja, following a surge in theft and vandalism targeting newly installed solar-powered streetlights and other critical public infrastructure.

The operation, spearheaded by the Operation Sweep Joint Task Force, is focusing on markets suspected of being receiving points for stolen government property—including solar streetlight batteries, armoured cables, and manhole covers.

Director of the FCTA Security Services Department, Adamu Gwary, disclosed the move during an inspection tour of the International Scrap Market, Apo, and the Jabi Pantaker Market on Wednesday. He was represented by the Secretary of the Command and Control Centre, Dr. Peter Olumuji.

Olumuji explained that while significant gains had been made in curbing vandalism over the past year, a fresh wave of thefts had forced the administration to tighten surveillance.

“The Honourable Minister has continued the installation of solar streetlights across the FCT. Unfortunately, some unscrupulous individuals have been removing batteries from these facilities,” Olumuji stated. “We cannot allow this to continue, which is why we have intensified monitoring of pantaker markets.”

He emphasised that the crackdown is not only about arrests but also about sensitisation. Market leaders and traders have been warned against accepting stolen public assets, with a clear message: “If such items are found in any market, the leadership and shop owners will be held accountable.”

During the inspection, the task force verified the documents of a vehicle being dismantled for parts, confirming it was legitimately acquired. Olumuji said the exercise sent a strong signal that “there is no hiding place for criminal elements” in the FCT.

In a recent incident, operatives intercepted a vehicle loaded with suspected stolen armoured cables. The occupants attempted to flee but crashed into a ditch and escaped on foot. The vehicle and items were recovered and handed to the police for investigation.

Market Leaders Pledge Cooperation

Responding to the enforcement drive, the Vice Chairman of the Apo Pantaker Market, Hassan Mohammed, said the market’s own task force and intelligence unit routinely verify ownership documents for items brought in.

“We do not tolerate government property here,” Mohammed insisted. “Prohibited items are displayed at the entrance, and our traders are regularly sensitised on the consequences of handling stolen goods.”

The FCTA has assured residents that the operation will be sustained across the territory to protect public infrastructure and maintain the security gains achieved in recent months.

AMAC Launches Automated Single Account, Bans Cash Payments from Jan 1, 2026

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

The Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) has announced a sweeping reform of its revenue collection system, mandating a full transition to automated payments and banning all cash transactions effective from January 1, 2026.

AMAC Chairman, Hon. Christopher Maikalangu, unveiled the policy on Tuesday in Abuja, describing it as a decisive move to eliminate revenue leakages, foster transparency, and boost funds for public services.

End of an Era, Start of Automation

“For too long, our revenue system has been undermined by manual processes that created loopholes. By the grace of God, that era ends today,” Maikalangu declared at a press conference.

Under the new policy, all payments due to the council—including taxes, levies, and fees—must be processed exclusively through the official AMAC Smart Tax platform (amactax.ng/payment). All funds will flow directly into a central council Single Account.

“We are eliminating cash payments completely. No official is authorised to collect cash. Every naira paid will go straight into the council’s single account,” the chairman stated.

Strict Enforcement and Public Warning

To ensure compliance, Maikalangu announced the inauguration of a Special Tribunal Monitoring Task Force in early 2026. The task force, supported by environmental cadets and enforcement officers, will monitor compliance across business districts and communities.

“Any individual or business that attempts to bypass this automated system will be apprehended and prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” he warned.

He explicitly cautioned residents against fraudulent collectors: “If anyone asks you to pay cash or into a private bank account, report it immediately. Any account outside AMAC Smart Tax is fake.”

Addressing a Multi-Billion Naira Gap

The chairman revealed that despite generating over ₦5 billion from January to date, AMAC’s revenue falls far short of its potential, given its jurisdiction over high-value areas like Maitama, Asokoro, Gwarinpa, Nyanya, and the Abuja airport axis.

“With the number of hotels, banks and estates in AMAC, there should be no excuse for revenue shortfalls. That is why we are taking these tough decisions to end leakages,” Maikalangu explained.

He warned that defaulting businesses, including hotels, risk being sealed by mobile courts and publicly named and shamed.

Transition Guidelines for Taxpayers

The council has outlined clear procedures for the transition:

· Primary Method: Payments must be made via the AMAC Smart Tax mobile app or website (amacsmarttax.ng) to generate instant electronic receipts.

· For Market Traders: Special provision is made for traders without smartphones, who can pay directly into the designated AMAC account at any Zenith Bank branch.

· Key Instruction: Residents are warned not to honour any demand notices issued before 2026. “Do not pay any demand notice issued before January 2026. Wait for the official council notice… If you pay elsewhere, you will pay twice,” the chairman cautioned.

A “Non-Negotiable” Reform for Development

Maikalangu framed the automation as critical for funding essential services. “This system must work, and it will work. We are determined to build a transparent, accountable revenue system and leave a lasting legacy for our people,” he said.

He called on all residents and business owners within AMAC to support the initiative, promising a seamless payment process and greater accountability in the council’s use of public funds from January 2026.

Wherever Wike Goes, Emohua Will Follow’ — Rivers Monarch Declares Support

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

The Paramount Ruler of Emohua Kingdom in Rivers State, Eze Ohna Sergeant Chidi Awuse, has declared the unwavering loyalty of his domain to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, promising to follow his political lead without hesitation.

Awuse, who also chairs the South-South Monarchs Forum, made the declaration on Monday during Wike’s special Christmas visit to the Rumuche community in Emohua Local Government Area.

A Pledge of Unconditional Loyalty

In a powerful endorsement, the traditional ruler described Wike as an indispensable leader and ally. “I want to put it on record: you are a man to be followed, a dependable ally, a friend of the Emohua people and our leader,” Awuse stated.

He left no room for ambiguity regarding the community’s political alignment, declaring, “Emohua owes you everything. We will not wait for you to tell us what to do when the time comes. Wherever you put your leg, Emohua Local Government will follow you.”

Commending Tinubu’s Economic Management

The monarch also used the occasion to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, arguing that his administration’s economic performance merits the support of Rivers people. Drawing from his background in accounting, Awuse cited positive indicators.

“From my understanding of accounting and finance, the indices are very clear. The value of the Naira has gone up, and Nigeria’s external reserves have increased to over 47 billion dollars,” he stated.

He further noted that Tinubu’s leadership had provided the enabling environment for Wike to execute transformative projects in Abuja.

Advice to Wike: Critics Are a Sign of Success

Addressing the minister directly, Awuse advised him to disregard detractors, framing criticism as an inevitable consequence of impactful leadership.

“If you expect not to have enemies, then you are a master of nobody. Only a man who is doing well is spoken about,” the monarch said.

He praised Wike’s tradition of annual end-of-year visits to appreciate his people, calling it a mark of gratitude and strong leadership, and thanked him for his consistent interventions in Emohua’s affairs.

Consolidating a Political Fortress

This public declaration by a key traditional ruler in Rivers State represents a significant consolidation of Wike’s grassroots support base. It comes just days after the minister himself warned that political power in Rivers “is not for dash” and must be earned through loyalty and credibility.

The monarch’s pledge to follow Wike “wherever” he goes adds substantial traditional authority to Wike’s political machinery, strengthening his position as the central figure in Rivers politics as alignments for the 2027 elections begin to take shape.

Official Statement Confirms Anthony Joshua Stable After Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Accident

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

The Governments of Ogun and Lagos States have issued a joint statement confirming that British-Nigerian boxing champion Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious road traffic accident earlier today along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The statement provides the first official details of the incident, which resulted in two fatalities but left Joshua and another passenger in stable condition.

Official Details of the Accident

According to the statement signed by the Special Adviser on Information in Ogun State, Kayode Akinmade, and the Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotoso, the accident occurred when the vehicle conveying Joshua and a team of four collided with a stationary truck.

The statement reads: “We sympathise with the families of those involved in the accident, and pray that God will grant them the strength to go through this difficult time.”

Medical Condition: “Stable” and Under Observation

Anthony Joshua and another passenger were immediately evacuated to a specialised medical facility in Lagos. After multiple clinical assessments, doctors have confirmed that both patients are “stable and do not require any emergency interventions at this time.”

A comprehensive medical team has been convened to monitor them closely. The statement also confirmed that “Anthony Joshua has since been relating well with his family.”

Government Response and Investigation

Both state governments have assured the public that they are “keenly monitoring the situation and will ensure that the two persons receive the best medical care.” They have also commenced investigations into the exact circumstances of the crash.

The statement concluded by appreciating the public’s concern but asking for “privacy for Anthony Joshua and his family during this time.”

This official confirmation follows earlier eyewitness reports of the accident, which had sparked a global outpouring of concern for the former unified world heavyweight champion’s well-being.

Fubara Not Rivers APC Leader – Wike

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has dismissed the notion that Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has become the leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state following his defection to the ruling party.

Speaking during a media parley in Port Harcourt on Monday, Wike insisted that party leadership is defined by grassroots structure, not by political office or a title like “001.”

Leadership Flows from the Ward, Not the Government House

Wike argued that true political authority is rooted in the party’s operational base. “There is nothing like 001 in the state. You register in your ward, and your local government is in your ward… You could be the first person to register, but not in the sense that by becoming governor you automatically become leader of the party,” he stated.

While acknowledging that governors often become party leaders in principle, Wike stressed that the title must be earned. “Leadership is not because I am a governor. You must have something that makes you a leader,” he added, implying that Governor Fubara has yet to establish this foundational authority within the APC’s structure.

 

Attributing Tension to Broken Commitments

The minister directly linked the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State to a failure to uphold agreements, specifically referencing the peace accord brokered by President Bola Tinubu to resolve the feud between the governor and the state House of Assembly.

According to Wike, Governor Fubara was fully aware of all reconciliation efforts. “The governor cannot say there was no meeting between the speaker and the leadership of the House. He was present. I don’t like politicians who don’t say the truth,” he stated, expressing displeasure over the governor’s recent televised accusations.

A Lesson in Political Courtesy

Wike suggested that Fubara’s actions lacked the basic courtesies that signal genuine political engagement and respect for party structures.

“Nobody told me to go and visit the Assembly to say thank you for their support. I don’t need anybody to tell me to call the speaker and say Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. These are steps you take to show seriousness,” Wike said, framing the governor’s approach as disengaged.

On FCT Governance and Senate Relations

Shifting focus to his role as FCT Minister, Wike downplayed reports of a broken relationship with Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory. He referenced a letter from the senator commending his work on infrastructure.

“She commended me for making Abuja a modern city. If there are two areas she thinks have not been done well, it does not mean Abuja is not doing well,” he noted, asserting that security and infrastructure have improved under his tenure.

Reaffirming Loyalty and a Final Jab

Wike concluded by reaffirming his loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and his focus on governance. His remarks on Rivers politics, however, delivered a clear message: in the battle for the soul of the state’s APC, Governor Fubara’s new party membership and high office do not, in Wike’s view, automatically translate to control. The real leadership, he insists, will be determined by the entrenched ward structures and the loyalty of party members—a domain where Wike himself has historically held significant sway.

The statement is a direct challenge to Governor Fubara’s political authority and sets the stage for an intense internal struggle within the Rivers State APC as the 2027 elections draw closer.

Power in Rivers Won’t Be “Dashed” by Sudden Slogans, Loyalty Must Be Earned — Wike

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has issued a stark political warning in his home state of Rivers, declaring that power in the 2027 elections will not be gifted based on last-minute loyalty or slogan-chasing, but must be earned through demonstrated trust and grassroots credibility.

Speaking on Monday during a thank-you visit to Omuma Local Government Area, the former Rivers governor set the tone for what promises to be a fiercely contested political season, distancing himself from campaign rhetoric and asserting his alignment with President Bola Tinubu.

A Warning Against Opportunism

In a clear message to aspirants, Wike dismissed political opportunism, stating that relevance cannot be bought or assumed through media hype. “Power is not given freely. Politics is not a gift. Mandates are earned, defended and protected. Nobody dashes power,” he declared.

He stressed that his visit was apolitical in nature, focused solely on gratitude. “I did not come here to play politics. I came here for one clear reason: to say thank you. All this while, you have stood with us, even when many believed we were finished politically,” Wike told supporters.

Principles Over Party: Revisiting 2023

Wike revisited the principles that guided his much-debated stance in the 2023 presidential election, framing it as a matter of national equity rather than partisan loyalty.

“It was not about party politics. It was about equity, fairness and justice… Equity demanded that the presidency return to the South, and we stood firmly on that principle,” he explained, justifying his support for Tinubu, the southern candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Showcasing Strength and Issuing a 2027 Battle Cry

Highlighting the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) continued dominance at the state level in Rivers, Wike pointed to its sweep of the Senate, House of Representatives, State Assembly, and governorship seats as proof of enduring political strength.

Looking ahead, he issued a clear battle cry for 2027, warning allies to be prepared and removing any ambiguity about his national alignment.

“From January, politics begins. Be prepared… Whatever the President says, know that is exactly where I stand. There is alignment. There is clarity. There is no ambiguity,” Wike stated, firmly tying his political fortunes to Tinubu’s agenda.

The Paramountcy of Trust and Integrity

The minister concluded by emphasizing the non-negotiable value of integrity and loyalty in politics. “Trust is everything. Agreements matter, whether written or verbal. No amount of money should make anyone abandon integrity,” he stated, drawing a line between steadfast allies and fair-weather followers.

His final warning reiterated the core message: “If you choose one direction or another, that is your decision. But understand this clearly: power is not for dash.”

The speech solidifies Wike’s position as a kingmaker who will demand proven loyalty, while also formally announcing his full political alignment with President Tinubu as the battle for 2027 begins to take shape.

NNPC Restores Escravos-Lagos Pipeline in Record Time After Explosive Blast

By
Ola Akinola
-
0

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has successfully repaired and recommissioned the critical Escravos-Lagos Pipeline System (ELPS), restoring it to full operation just weeks after a devastating explosion crippled the infrastructure.

In a statement on Monday, the state oil company’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, hailed the rapid restoration as a “testament to the company’s resilience” and a significant boost to the nation’s fragile energy security.

A Swift Response to a Critical Blow

The ELPS, a major artery for transporting natural gas from the Niger Delta to power plants and industries in Lagos and the southwest, was severely damaged by an explosion on December 10, 2025. The blast contributed to a severe drop in gas supply, exacerbating Nigeria’s ongoing electricity crisis and leading to multiple national grid collapses.

NNPC stated that it activated its emergency response protocol immediately, deploying multidisciplinary teams for “containment, repairs, pressure testing, and safe restoration.”

“Today, the critical pipeline stands fully operational, bolstering Nigeria’s energy security amid ongoing supply challenges,” Odeh stated.

Collaboration Credited for Record Turnaround

The company credited the swift turnaround to a broad collaborative effort. According to the statement, the successful repair was achieved through “robust collaboration, including support from host communities, regulatory guidance, security agencies, partners, and dedicated staff.”

NNPC emphasized that the operation “prioritized safety and environmental protection,” aiming to turn “a major setback into a success story in record time.”

A Reprieve for the National Grid

The restoration of the ELPS is expected to provide immediate relief to Nigeria’s beleaguered power sector. The pipeline’s outage had drastically reduced gas supply to thermal power plants, directly contributing to the nationwide blackouts experienced over the past month. Its return to service should enable a significant increase in electricity generation capacity.

Ongoing Challenges and Commitments

While celebrating the achievement, NNPC acknowledged the persistent challenges of pipeline vandalism and energy disruptions that plague the sector. The company reaffirmed its “dedication to asset integrity, community safeguards, and environmental stewardship moving forward.”

The rapid repair of the ELPS marks a crucial operational victory for NNPC Ltd. However, it also underscores the continued vulnerability of Nigeria’s energy infrastructure to attacks and technical failures, highlighting the need for more durable solutions to ensure stable power supply for the nation.

123...431Page 1 of 431

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

Newsfocus is your news, sports,politics, entertainment, music fashion website. We offer you the latest breaking news and videos straight from the sports and entertainment industry across the world.

Contact us: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

© 2020 Focus Media . All Rights Reserved