Liu Bei, the owner of the Abuja-based Chinese supermarket recently sealed for discriminatory practices, has appeared before a tribunal at the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) following a summons notice issued by the commission.
The development comes after the FCCPC sealed the supermarket and issued a threat of sanctions against the owner on Monday. In response to the summons, Liu Bei attended the tribunal to address allegations of not allowing Nigerians to shop at the facility.
In an update provided by the FCCPC, it was stated, “Owners of the Abuja Chinese Supermarket facing allegations of discriminatory practices responded to our summons today to answer questions regarding the allegations. FCCPC operatives have conducted an inspection of the facility.”
The FCCPC further assured the public of providing updates as the investigation progresses.
The supermarket had previously implemented a policy that restricted entry solely to Chinese nationals, thereby excluding Nigerians from patronizing the establishment. This move sparked outrage and led to swift action by the FCCPC to address the discriminatory practices.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, welcomed Nigerian chess master, Tunde Onakoya, to the Lagos House, Ikeja, on Wednesday, following Onakoya’s remarkable achievement of setting a new Guinness World Record for the longest chess marathon of 60 hours in New York City.
Onakoya, who received a warm reception upon his return to Nigeria, was honored by Governor Sanwo-Olu for his outstanding accomplishment. Taking to his social media handle, Governor Sanwo-Olu hailed Onakoya’s journey as emblematic of Lagos’ resilient and ambitious spirit, driven by a passion for success and empowerment.
“Powerful visions birth movements that change lives. Today, we welcomed back #Tunde_OD, our chess champion, to Lagos,” Sanwo-Olu shared. “His journey embodies the spirit of Lagos—resilient, ambitious, and driven to succeed. As we celebrate his achievements, we’re inspired by his vision for empowering our children and youth.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu pledged the state’s support for Onakoya’s mission, ensuring that every child in Lagos has the opportunity to thrive through chess. “Together with Tunde and the transformative power of Chess, we’ll work towards a future where every child in Lagos has the opportunity to realize their full potential,” he affirmed.
Highlighting the state’s commitment, Governor Sanwo-Olu announced plans to provide resources to fuel Onakoya’s noble cause, both presently and in the future. “The state proudly supports his mission, purposefully providing resources to fuel this noble cause now and in the future,” he stated.
Onakoya, along with his United States partner, Shawn Martinez, surpassed the previous record set by Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flateb and Sjur Ferkingstad in 2018, playing for 56 hours and 9 minutes. Their achievement not only secured a place in the Guinness World Records but also exemplified the power of dedication and perseverance in pursuing excellence.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, H. E. Muhammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, has called on all African member states to come together and fight terrorism by preventing cross border influx of illegal arms in the continent.
The Minister made the call while speaking to Newsmen shortly after the close of the two- day High level Africa counter terrorism summit held in Abuja, as contained in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike,Director ( Information and Public Relations) Ministry of Defence.
The Minister said: “We have resolved amongst the participating countries that each sub regional body should organise itself and come together as a United Africa to develop means and strategies in partnership with the International Community to tackle terrorism and other related crimes in the continent.”
He said that the time to act to secure Africa from insecurity is now and God’s Willing that will be achieved in no distance time.
Furthermore, the Minister called for a collaborative approach in intelligence sharing and information gathering on the sources of funding and arms acquisition by the terrorists. “This will help in checkmating the scourge of terrorism and also in cross-checking the movement of terrorists across borders.”
In a bid to foster sustainable development and regional cooperation, Barrister Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), emphasized the importance of stronger ties among African countries. He made this call during a meeting with the Ambassador of Cote d’Ivoire to Nigeria, Mr. Kalilou Traore, in Abuja on Wednesday.
Wike stressed the need for ECOWAS countries to work together, citing Nigeria’s presidency in ECOWAS as a driving force for enhanced cooperation. “We will continue to strengthen our relationship,” he affirmed.
The Minister also commended Cote d’Ivoire for developing the plot allocated to its Embassy in Abuja, highlighting the FCTA’s commitment to ensuring all allocated land is utilized to prevent security challenges. “We don’t want to leave certain areas for miscreants, and so we thank you for the cooperation,” he stated.
Wike extended congratulations to Cote d’Ivoire on its recent victory in the African Cup of Nations, acknowledging the disappointment of not bringing the cup home. He also expressed appreciation for Cote d’Ivoire’s hospitality during the tournament.
In response, Ambassador Traore outlined plans to develop the land allocated to the Embassy in Maitama, in line with directives to utilize allocated plots within specified timeframes. He also proposed twinning Abuja and Yamoussoukro, the political capital of Cote d’Ivoire, to promote mutual advancement.
The meeting between Wike and Ambassador Traore signifies a commitment to fostering bilateral relations and regional cooperation, paving the way for shared development and prosperity across Africa.
In a bold move to boost transparency and efficiency in Nigeria’s mining sector, the federal government has revoked a whopping 924 dormant licenses covering exploration, mining, small-scale mining, and quarrying.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, made the announcement on Wednesday, emphasizing that the revocation followed due process and adequate notice to all concerned parties.
Only 39 licensees out of 963 took immediate action or provided convincing reasons for their license dormancy, leading to the revocation of 928 licenses. This includes 528 exploration licenses, 20 mining leases, 101 quarry licenses, and 273 Small Scale Mining Licenses (SSML).
Dr. Alake stressed that the revocation aligns with the government’s “Use it or Lose it” policy, aimed at penalizing those who treat the sector as a commodity.
Investors worldwide can now apply for affected Cadastral Units on a first-come, first-served basis.
To provide a path for restitution, Dr. Alake announced fines for revoked licenses: N10 million for Mining Licenses, N7.5 million for Small Scale Mining Licenses (SSML), and N5 million for Exploration Licenses (EL). Licensees have 30 days to pay the fines to qualify for consideration.
Dr. Alake warned against license racketeering and speculative practices, affirming the government’s zero-tolerance stance.
He urged investors to initiate projects swiftly upon obtaining licenses, emphasizing Nigeria’s readiness to welcome serious investors who create employment opportunities.
This move marks a significant step towards revitalizing Nigeria’s mining sector, promoting accountability, and attracting responsible investment for sustainable development.
… Pass Vote of Confidence on NDDC MD Chief Samuel Ogbuku
By Martins Ogolo
Several youth groups across the Niger Delta region have endorsed the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Holistic Opportunity Projects of Engagement (HOPE). This was done during a robust engagement between Project HOPE handlers and all youth bodies in the Niger Delta Region.
Ambassador Blessing Fubara, who is the resource consultant of the Holistic Opportunity Projects of Engagement (HOPE), while making a presentation to the various youth representatives, said, “First, we must appreciate the sincerity of Dr. Samuel Ogbuku-led NDDC board for keying into our idea and showing willingness to fund it 100%. The idea for Project HOPE was birthed based on the need to turn around the fortunes of Niger Delta youths and engage them with meaningful activities so as to change the narratives and mindset of people who see Niger Delta youths as militants and misfits. What we started with was getting a database of every youth in the Niger Delta region, to ensure we know what each can do and see what suits who.”
He further opined, “Project HOPE covers several areas of human capital development, ranging from agriculture, science and technology, fish farming, vocational skills, and creative arts. It will interest you to know we have secured at least 100 hectares of land in the nine states of the Niger Delta region. We intend to go into full-scale mechanized farming and are projecting to employ at least 1,000 persons per state, which means 9,000 persons in the whole of Niger Delta. This is achievable because agriculture, though mechanized, will still need physical manpower at different stages.”
He further explained, “For the fish farming, we will procure large fishing vessels and employ Niger Delta youths to man and manage them. For science and technology, we will train youths between 6-9 months with globally accepted tech skills and set up tech hubs in each state in the region. When we approached the Rivers State Government, they graciously approved a property for us to set up the tech center because they know the importance of technology. A lot of the artists keep migrating to Lagos because of the market and enabling environment. We did a survey and several consultations with IPMAN and came to the conclusion that the solution will be to set up entertainment villages where artists, producers, skit makers, and cinematographers will be trained and funded afterwards. This is because we want to touch every category of Niger Delta youths.”
Several youth groups, which include Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Niger Delta Youth Movement (NDYM), and a host of others, took turns to endorse the current Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Chief Samuel Ogbuku, PhD, and the Holistic Opportunity Projects of Engagement (HOPE). They also promised to do all they can to ensure the project succeeds.
Despite concerns over the currency used for selling crude to Dangote Petroleum Refinery, oil marketers have confirmed that the refined petroleum products will be sold in Naira, the local currency, and not in U.S. dollars. This clarification comes amid speculation that the use of dollars for crude purchases could lead to refined products being priced in the foreign currency.
Ongoing Registration and Pricing Template Development
As the Dangote Petroleum Refinery ramps up operations, the registration process for marketers to lift and distribute products remains active, indicating robust participation from the sector. Additionally, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority is collaborating closely with the refinery’s management to finalize the pricing template, ensuring compliance and fairness in product pricing.
Local Currency Utilization Reinforced
Chief Ukadike Chinedu, the National Public Relations Officer for the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), addressed the currency issue directly. He reassured the public that although crude is procured in dollars due to its international market status, the refined products destined for the Nigerian market would be sold in Naira. He highlighted the consistency of Dangote Industries in conducting local transactions in Naira, drawing parallels with other Dangote products like cement and food items.
Implications for Local Market and Currency Stability
The decision to sell refined products in Naira is seen as a critical support mechanism for the local currency amidst ongoing foreign exchange rate challenges. This approach not only aligns with national economic strategies but also supports local consumption and accessibility.
The pricing strategy and its impending announcement are eagerly awaited by the market, as they will significantly impact various sectors dependent on diesel and aviation fuel. These developments are particularly noteworthy given the refinery’s capacity to process 650,000 barrels of crude per day and its potential to meet domestic demand more sustainably.
Engagement with Regulators and Future Expectations
With ongoing meetings between refinery officials, dealers, and regulators, there is an active effort to ensure that the pricing templates and operational strategies align with national standards and market needs. The anticipation of these templates suggests a strategic approach to market entry that could set new standards for product pricing and distribution in Nigeria’s oil sector.
As operations at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery continue to expand, the focus remains on enhancing the availability of high-quality refined products domestically, thus promising a significant shift towards greater self-sufficiency in the energy sector.
Dangote Petroleum Refinery has taken a further step in alleviating the economic hardships in Nigeria by announcing a significant reduction in the prices of diesel and aviation fuel. This latest move sets the price of diesel at N940 per litre for purchases of five million litres or more, and aviation fuel at N980 per litre.
The announcement comes shortly after a previous price cut two weeks ago, where prices were lowered to N1,000 per litre. The refinery has now introduced a tiered pricing strategy, offering diesel at N970 per litre for customers purchasing at least one million litres.
Strategic Partnership with MRS Oil and Gas
In a bid to make these lower prices accessible to more Nigerians, Dangote Petroleum Refinery has entered into a strategic partnership with MRS Oil and Gas. According to Mr. Anthony Chiejina, Head of Communication at the refinery, this collaboration aims to ensure that consumers across Nigeria, from Lagos to Maiduguri, can purchase diesel at N1,050 per litre and aviation fuel at N980 per litre at all major airports where MRS operates.
“The essence of this partnership is to ensure that retail buyers do not buy at exorbitant prices,” Chiejina explained. He added that plans are underway to extend this initiative to other major oil marketers.
Impact on Local Industries and Economy
The repeated price reductions are seen as a boost to various sectors including manufacturing, transportation, logistics, and agriculture. These sectors have been significantly affected by high energy costs and the general economic downturn in the country.
Mr. Ajayi Kadiri, the Director General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, lauded the refinery’s efforts, noting, “The decision of Dangote Refinery to first crash the price from about N1,750/litre to N1,200/litre, then to N1,000/litre, and now N940, is an eloquent demonstration of the capacity of local industries to positively impact the fortunes of the national economy.”
He emphasized that the reduction in fuel prices could potentially alter the energy cost dynamics significantly, contributing to easing the high inflation rate and reviving many struggling companies.
Government and Public Reaction
President Bola Tinubu has previously commended Dangote for its role in reducing fuel prices, describing it as an “enterprising feat” that sets a positive precedent for other corporations in the country.
With this new pricing strategy, Dangote Petroleum Refinery continues to play a pivotal role in addressing the economic challenges faced by Nigerians, providing much-needed relief as the country strives towards economic recovery and stability.
ABUJA—In a revealing interview on Tuesday, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, disclosed that the former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello, is accused of illegally transferring $720,000 from state funds to a bureau de change to cover his child’s future school fees before his tenure ended.
During the session with journalists in Abuja, Olukoyede expressed his dismay over the alleged misappropriation, emphasizing the gravity of such actions in a state grappling with economic challenges. “In a poor state like Kogi, and you want me to close my eyes to that under the guise of ‘I’m being used.’ Being used by who at this stage of my life?” he questioned.
The Allegation:
Olukoyede highlighted that this transfer was made in anticipation of Bello’s departure from office, framing it as a preemptive misuse of public funds for personal benefit. This act is part of a larger case against Bello, who faces 19 counts of alleged money laundering and misappropriation of funds totaling N80.2 billion.
EFCC’s Approach:
The EFCC chairman also shared details of his personal outreach to Bello, offering him an opportunity to explain his side of the story in a dignified manner. According to Olukoyede, Bello declined the offer, citing fears of harassment by an unspecified woman allegedly mobilizing a crowd against him. Bello instead suggested that EFCC officials visit his village for the inquiry, a proposal that Olukoyede found less practical.
“I said if that is the issue, I’m going to pass you through my own gate, and you will come to my floor. We will accord you that respect. I will invite my operatives; they will interrogate and interview you in my own office. What could be more honourable than that to allay the fear?” Olukoyede recounted. Bello’s response was still non-committal.
EFCC’s Record Under Olukoyede:
Highlighting the successes under his leadership, Olukoyede noted that the EFCC has secured over 1,600 convictions and recovered approximately 120 billion Naira in six months. “We have wiped tears off their eyes, people that have been swindled in their millions. Every day, we keep recovering money for victims,” he stated, underscoring the importance of the EFCC’s mission in Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape.
Implications and Public Response:
The public and political response to these revelations will be crucial. Olukoyede has previously vowed to resign if Bello is not prosecuted, setting a high stake for the outcome of this case. This declaration has heightened interest in Bello’s prosecution, seen as a litmus test for Nigeria’s judicial and anti-corruption systems.
As the situation unfolds, the EFCC’s efforts to hold influential figures accountable are being closely watched both domestically and internationally, highlighting the ongoing challenges and efforts in combating corruption within Nigeria.
ABUJA—In a bold assertion of commitment to anti-corruption efforts, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has declared his intention to resign should the prosecution of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, fail to proceed. This statement was made during a discussion with editors at the EFCC headquarters in Jabi, Abuja.
Olukoyede, whose tenure has been marked by vigorous anti-corruption campaigns, expressed his resolve to see the case against Bello, who faces 19 counts of alleged money laundering and misappropriation of N80.2 billion, to a conclusive end. He emphasized that the prosecution of Bello is a critical test of the agency’s integrity and effectiveness.
Details of the Case:
Yahaya Bello, who served as the Governor of Kogi State, is accused by the EFCC of engaging in extensive financial misconduct involving public funds. The charges, which involve the misappropriation of a staggering N80 billion, highlight a broader issue of governance and accountability in Nigeria.
During the briefing, Olukoyede lamented the challenges faced by the agency, including attempts to obstruct the arrest and prosecution of high-profile figures like Bello. He warned that those interfering with the judicial process would also face the law.
Court Proceedings:
The recent court session concerning Bello’s prosecution saw a notable development. Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja ordered that the charge sheet be served to Bello’s lawyer, Abdulwahab Mohamed, after Bello failed to appear for arraignment. The court’s decision, supported by sections of the Administrative and Criminal Justice Act 2015, underscores the judiciary’s flexibility in ensuring that justice is served even when defendants evade court sessions.
National Implications:
The EFCC chairman’s stance is seen as a crucial litmus test for the country’s fight against corruption. Olukoyede highlighted the broader impact of their efforts on the Nigerian economy, noting improvements in the value of the naira and stability in foreign markets as a result of rigorous enforcement against economic crimes.
“The success of the EFCC is vital not just for justice but for the economic stability of Nigeria,” Olukoyede stated. “If the EFCC fails, Nigeria fails,” he added, stressing the importance of public support in these endeavors.
Public and Governmental Reaction:
This declaration from the EFCC has sparked a wide range of reactions. While many citizens applaud the agency’s determination, others are skeptical about the potential for political influences affecting the outcome. The government, on its part, has reiterated its support for the EFCC’s mandate, emphasizing that the rule of law must prevail irrespective of one’s political or social status.
Looking Forward:
As the nation watches closely, the outcome of this case could either strengthen public confidence in the anti-corruption campaign or lead to significant leadership changes within the EFCC. The commitment demonstrated by Olukoyede sets a precedent for accountability that could define the future of anti-corruption efforts in Nigeria.
This high-stakes legal battle against corruption underlines the ongoing struggle within Nigerian society to redefine governance and uphold the principles of justice and integrity in public office.
