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First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Hosts Former First Ladies, Female Lawmakers to Ramadan Iftar

By
Gladys Phillip
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0

 

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday, hosted a special Iftar—the symbolic breaking of fast during Ramadan—with former First Ladies of Nigeria, female National Assembly members, and wives of lawmakers in attendance.

 

Speaking at the event, the First Lady reassured Nigerians that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains committed to improving the country and alleviating the challenges faced by citizens.

 

> “The government is doing all it can to improve the country and make life better for Nigerians,” she emphasized.

 

 

 

Call for Compassion and Unity

 

Senator Tinubu encouraged acts of kindness, urging everyone to lend a helping hand to those in need.

 

> “If each of us can take one person at a time and lend a helping hand, it will go a long way in ameliorating the hardship of others,” she advised.

 

 

 

She also highlighted the coincidence of Ramadan and Lent this year, describing it as divinely ordained and an opportunity for sober reflection across religious divides.

 

> “This is a time of sober reflection for our Muslim brothers and sisters, as well as our Christian brethren who are observing Lent. God ordained it to be so at this time in our nation,” she noted.

 

 

 

She urged the Muslim Ummah to uphold the virtues of Ramadan beyond the fasting period and continue seeking God’s mercy and guidance for the nation.

 

Wife of the Vice President Calls for Prayers for Nigeria

 

In her welcome address, the wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, expressed gratitude to the First Lady for hosting the gathering.

 

She called on attendees to continue praying for the President and the nation, stressing the power of prayer in shaping the country’s future.

 

Lecture on the Spiritual Significance of Ramadan

 

The Vice-Chancellor of Azman University, Kano, Professor Fatima Mukhtar, delivered a lecture on the spiritual significance and teachings of Ramadan, highlighting the virtues of patience, charity, and self-discipline.

 

The event concluded with special prayers for Nigeria, President Tinubu, and all citizens, as attendees reflected on the essence of faith, unity, and national progress.

 

SIR AZUKA OKWUOSA: A BEAM OF VICTORY AND A BEACON OF HOPE FOR NDỊ ANAMBRA SOUTH

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

*SIR AZUKA OKWUOSA: A BEAM OF VICTORY AND A BEACON OF HOPE FOR NDỊ ANAMBRA SOUTH*

The surest way of winning tough elections is to feature beams of victory. A careful scrutiny of the party’s Senatorial bye-election contenders has the pointer on Sir Azuka Okwuosa as the beam of victory. Why him? Simple – his positive attitudes, constructive beliefs and proactive choices. This paradigm shift paves the way for his personal and professional successes endearing him to the people. An Excellent Leader at all times!

Our Senatorial hopeful exhibits a high level of positive attitude- very optimistic and has a tendency to focus on the brighter side of life which makes him resilient, coming out of situations stronger and better. He is one of the Stalwarts in the party who have stayed longer than most people, painstakingly and enduringly seeking for how to better the lots of the party members.

Commendably, Sir Zukky’s constructive beliefs makes him promote positive adaptations and contribute to the wellbeing of people around him. Fostering compassion for others makes him happy… “Chinyelugo nwelụ obi mmadụ”.

Okwuosa’s proactive choices attribute makes him take initiative and make decisions that anticipate potential issues or opportunities, focusing on taking charge, shaping the future of his people and giving them hope of a better tomorrow.

Beams of Victory are Voters’ choice; Ndị APC Anambra South the ball is in your court, let’s pass the ball to Ndị Anambra South for them to score the golden goal and send Chinyelugo to the Senate to usher in well deserved progress and development into the Zone.

Support Sir Azuka Okwuosa for quality Representation of Ndị Anambra South.

*SIR AZUKA OKWUOSA MEDIA*

Interior Minister Warns Foreign Firms, Vows Action Over Alleged Shooting of Immigration Officer

By
Roland Edet
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0

 

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has issued a strong warning to foreign companies operating in Nigeria, emphasizing that while the country welcomes investment and collaboration, all businesses must abide by Nigerian laws.

 

Speaking at the Stakeholders’ Sensitization Workshop on the Nigeria Visa Policy 2025 on Thursday, the minister condemned an alleged shooting of a Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) officer in Minna, Niger State, reportedly on the orders of operatives of a Chinese company.

 

“An Attack on Nigeria” – Minister Declares

 

Dr. Tunji-Ojo described the incident as unacceptable, stating that no foreign company has the right to intimidate or obstruct NIS officers from carrying out their lawful duties.

 

> “That will never happen. I will not go to any country, open a company, and tell immigration officers they are not allowed. One of them shot one of our employees. The owner of a foreign company told the security attaché to shoot our officer. That happened a couple of weeks ago. We are taking it up with the Chinese Embassy.”

 

 

 

The minister further stated that such actions amount to an attack on Nigeria, vowing that the government would pursue the matter diplomatically and ensure justice.

 

> “These officers put their lives on the line. You will not come from anywhere and ask to shoot them in their fatherland. It will no longer happen. No agent, no company is above the law.”

 

 

 

Nigeria to Enforce Strict Visa Regulations

 

Dr. Tunji-Ojo also announced tighter visa regulations, warning that Nigeria will not be a safe haven for individuals with questionable characters. He emphasized that foreign nationals must respect the country’s immigration laws, adding that visa applications will now be processed based on a strict security framework.

 

> “We are automating our grey and black lists of immigration. If you keep violating our laws, Nigeria is not interested in you.”

 

 

 

The new visa framework will categorize applicants into three lists:

 

White List – Those who comply with immigration laws and can freely enter Nigeria.

 

Grey List – Individuals with minor infractions who must pay penalties.

 

Black List – Those involved in serious infractions, including security threats and immigration law violations, will be permanently barred.

 

 

Additionally, visa overstayers will now face penalties, and those exceeding a set period could face suspension or blacklisting.

 

Nigeria Visa Policy 2025: A Major Immigration Reform

 

In her opening remarks, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, described the Nigerian Visa Policy 2025 (NVP 2025) as a landmark reform aimed at balancing national security with economic development.

 

> “The NVP 2025 reflects the government’s commitment to an immigration system that strengthens security, attracts investment, and boosts tourism.”

 

 

 

The policy is built on four key pillars:

 

1. Enhancing National Security – Through biometric verification and digitized border management.

 

 

2. Facilitating Economic Growth – By streamlining visa procedures and reducing bureaucratic hurdles.

 

 

3. Improving Ease of Doing Business – Ensuring seamless experiences for investors, business travelers, and skilled professionals.

 

 

4. Promoting Safe and Legal Migration – Encouraging orderly immigration while preventing security threats.

 

 

 

The Nigeria Visa Policy 2025 has been developed in collaboration with key ministries, diplomatic missions, private sector stakeholders, and international development partners.

 

With these reforms, the government aims to make Nigeria more attractive to investors and skilled professionals while strengthening immigration enforcement.

 

House of Reps Advances Bill to Set 60-Year Age Limit for Presidential, Gubernatorial Candidates

By
Gladys Phillip
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0

 

The Nigerian House of Representatives has passed for second reading a bill seeking to bar individuals above 60 years from contesting for the offices of President and Governor.

 

If passed into law, the bill could disqualify major political figures such as President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Peter Obi from contesting in the 2027 presidential election, as all three exceed the proposed age limit.

 

Key Provisions of the Bill

 

The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to amend the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, to revise the eligibility criteria for individuals seeking election as President, Vice President, Governors, and Deputy Governors in Nigeria,” was introduced by Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere (PDP, Imo).

 

Proposed amendments include:

 

1. Educational Qualification:

 

A candidate for President or Governor must possess at least a university degree (Bachelor’s).

 

 

 

2. Age Limit:

 

President: Must not be more than 60 years at the time of election.

 

Governor: Must not be more than 60 years at the time of election.

 

 

 

 

The bill was among 31 legislative proposals that passed second reading during Thursday’s plenary session.

 

Other Key Bills Passed for Second Reading

 

1. Federal University Bills

 

Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education Bill (Imo State) – Sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Rep. Ugochinyere, seeking federal recognition and funding for the institution.

 

Federal University of Education, Zaria Bill – Co-sponsored by Speaker Abbas and Rep. Yusuf Gagdi to establish a teacher-training university in Zaria.

 

Yusuf Maitama Sule Federal University of Education Bill (Kano) and University of Nigerian Languages Bill (Aba) also scaled second reading.

 

 

2. Political Inclusion and Representation

 

Inclusion of Youths & Persons with Disabilities in Political Appointments Bill – Sponsored by Rep. Ugochinyere, seeking to mandate youth and disability representation in political appointments.

 

Reserved Seats for Women in National and State Assemblies Bill – Sponsored by Rep. Kafilat Ogbara, aimed at enhancing gender inclusivity in legislative representation.

 

 

3. Electoral and Economic Reforms

 

Trade and Commerce Bill – Seeks to move trade regulation to the concurrent legislative list, allowing both federal and state governments to regulate interstate commerce.

 

Judicial Reform Bills:

 

Timelines for Justice Administration Bill – Sponsored by Rep. Benjamin Kalu, aimed at improving efficiency in justice delivery.

 

Increase in Number of Supreme Court & Court of Appeal Justices Bill – Sponsored by Rep. Bello Kaoje, proposing an increase in the number of justices to speed up case resolutions.

 

 

 

4. State Creation Bills

 

Creation of Wan State (North Central) Bill

 

Creation of Gobir State (North West) Bill

 

 

Next Steps

 

The 60-year age limit bill and other proposed legislations will undergo further scrutiny in committee stages before being considered for final passage.

 

If enacted, the age limit amendment would mark a significant shift in Nigeria’s electoral landscape, potentially reshaping presidential and gubernatorial contests ahead of 2027.

 

Atiku Denies Allegations of Receiving Lagos State Funds, Calls It Political Smear

By
Saladin Babagana
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0

 

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly dismissed allegations that Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, through businesswoman Aisha Achimugu, provided him with funds allegedly belonging to the state.

 

In a statement issued by his media adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku described the claims as a blatant lie from the pit of hell, labeling them as a politically motivated attack orchestrated to serve the interests of President Bola Tinubu.

 

Atiku’s Response: “A Kindergarten Propaganda”

 

Ibe refuted the allegations, emphasizing that Atiku has never met or had any dealings with Governor Sanwo-Olu.

 

“This piece of kindergarten propaganda is beneath the camp of Tinubu. How is it possible for Atiku, who does not know and has no connection with Sanwo-Olu, to be involved in a financial transaction with him—especially during the 2023 presidential election in which Tinubu was a contestant? To what end would that be?” Ibe questioned.

 

 

A Plot to Discredit the Opposition?

 

The statement further suggested that the allegations are part of a larger political strategy aimed at:

 

1. Undermining Governor Sanwo-Olu

 

 

2. Discrediting opposition alliances forming ahead of the 2027 elections

 

 

 

“Their strategy is two-fold: to get rid of Sanwo-Olu and to discredit the coalition being put together by opposition political leaders, of which Atiku Abubakar is a key stakeholder,” Ibe alleged.

 

 

Challenge to EFCC: “Make Your Findings Public”

 

With reports suggesting that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) may be investigating the matter, Ibe challenged the agency to make public any findings, stating that Atiku has nothing to hide.

 

“Since the EFCC has been dragged into this political arena, we challenge the anti-corruption agency to make public the outcome of its alleged investigation.”

 

 

No Official Response from Sanwo-Olu or EFCC

 

As political tensions rise and speculation grows over rifts within the ruling party, neither the Lagos State Government nor the EFCC has issued an official statement on the matter.

 

Atiku’s media office called for an immediate halt to what it termed a smear campaign against opposition figures.

 

“This voyage of misadventure and campaign of calumny against Atiku Abubakar must be

halted immediately and with alacrity.”

 

 

Senate Advances Bill to Cut Election Costs, Mandate Same-Day Voting

By
Uche Kingsley
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0

 

The Nigerian Senate has taken a significant step towards electoral reform as the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025, seeking to reduce election costs and mandate same-day voting for all elective offices, passed second reading on Thursday.

 

Key Provisions of the Bill

 

1. Same-Day Elections for All Offices

 

The bill proposes that presidential, governorship, national assembly, and state assembly elections be conducted on the same day to cut costs and improve efficiency.

 

Sponsor of the bill, Sen. Saliu Mustapha (APC, Kwara Central), argued that staggering elections leads to unnecessary expenses and security risks.

 

 

 

2. Reducing the Cost of Elections

 

Mustapha highlighted the rising financial burden of elections in Nigeria, citing that the cost had surged from N1.5 billion in 1999 to N350 billion in 2023.

 

He emphasized that same-day elections would significantly cut election expenses, allowing funds to be redirected to infrastructure projects and governance improvements.

 

 

 

3. Shorter Campaign Periods

 

The bill seeks to limit the duration of election campaigns, arguing that prolonged campaigns increase financial pressures on parties and candidates.

 

“A shorter campaign period will curb excessive spending and allow politicians to focus more on governance rather than electioneering,” Mustapha noted.

 

 

 

4. Adhoc Delegate Rights for Elected Officials

 

The bill also seeks to grant the President, Vice President, Governors, and National Assembly members the right to serve as adhoc delegates at their party conventions.

 

Mustapha argued that excluding elected officials from party decision-making processes is unfair and counterproductive.

 

 

 

5. Global Best Practices

 

The senator cited successful models from democracies such as the United States, India, and Brazil, where same-day elections have proven to reduce costs and improve electoral efficiency.

 

“Nigeria must adopt a similar approach to save funds that can be redirected to critical infrastructure projects,” he urged.

 

 

 

 

Mixed Reactions in the Senate

 

While the bill received broad support, some lawmakers expressed concerns over INEC’s ability to conduct nationwide elections in a single day.

 

Sen. Adams Oshiomhole (APC, Edo North) warned against rushing the reforms without ensuring INEC’s logistical readiness.

 

“The bill has good intentions, but we must ask: Is INEC equipped to conduct all elections in one day?” Oshiomhole queried.

 

He also raised concerns about multiple ballot papers confusing voters, particularly those with low literacy levels.

 

 

 

 

NSITF Unveils Strategy to Enroll 1 Million Workers Annually in Employee Compensation Scheme

By
Grace Itodu
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0

 

The Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) has launched a Mass Advocacy and Sensitisation Campaign aimed at enrolling at least one million workers annually into the Employee Compensation Scheme (ECS).

 

Speaking at the campaign launch in Abuja, NSITF Managing Director, Oluwaseun Faleye, decried the widespread ignorance and non-compliance by many Nigerian employers and corporate organizations regarding the ECS.

 

Targeting the Informal Sector

 

Recognizing that 70% of Nigeria’s workforce operates in the informal sector, Faleye stated that the NSITF is now expanding its coverage to include these workers under the social security protection framework of the ECS.

 

“Many Nigerians, especially in the informal sector, are unaware of their rights under the Employee Compensation Scheme. We are rolling out new initiatives to ensure small and medium businesses, transport workers, and other informal sector participants benefit from compensation protection,” he said.

 

Challenges in Compliance and Enforcement

 

Faleye highlighted several obstacles affecting the scheme’s effectiveness:

 

1. Employer Manipulation: Some employers collude with workers to underreport salaries or declare fewer employees, thereby reducing their contributions to the NSITF.

 

 

2. Limited Enforcement Powers: NSITF officials face resistance during workplace inspections, with some employers blocking access to facilities, making it difficult to assess safety compliance.

 

 

3. Workers Undermining Their Own Protection: Employees, particularly accountants, finance directors, and payroll officers, sometimes assist employers in falsifying salary records, which ultimately reduces their entitlement to compensation in case of workplace accidents.

 

 

 

Faleye’s Warning to Workers

 

The NSITF boss warned employees against shortchanging themselves, stressing that compensation is strictly based on declared earnings.

 

“When accidents happen—and we pray they don’t—compensation is calculated based on the reported salary. If you undervalue your earnings, you receive far less than you should. Employees must stop enabling their own exploitation,” he cautioned.

 

Engaging KPMG for e-NSITF Review

 

Meanwhile, the NSITF has engaged KPMG to conduct an independent review of the stalled N15 billion e-NSITF digitalization project.

 

The e-NSITF project, launched in 2022, was aimed at upgrading the Fund’s digital infrastructure, but it has faced significant setbacks.

 

In 2023, the federal government approved the second phase of the project, but concerns over contract execution and accountability led to the current review.

 

Faleye assured that the new NSITF leadership is committed to transparency and efficiency, stating that KPMG will assess the contractor’s performance against the original project scope.

 

 

Way Forward

 

Faleye emphasized that beyond enforcement, public awareness and trust-building are crucial to increasing compliance.

 

“Every time we explain what NSITF stands for, perception and attitudes change. Our biggest challenge is a lack of awareness, and we are committed to bridging that gap,” he said.

 

He reaffirmed that the NSITF is working to strengthen its enforcement mechanisms, advocating for greater powers to ensure that organizations comply with employee protection laws.

 

SSDC Act: Rep. Abiante Commends Tinubu for Signing South-South Development Commission Bill into Law

By
Olajumoke Sanusi
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0

 

The lawmaker representing Andoni-Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency in Rivers State, Hon. Awaji-Inombek Dagomie Abiante, has expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for officially signing the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) Bill into law.

 

Abiante, who was the lead sponsor of the bill, described the President’s assent as a significant milestone for the South-South region, bringing an end to years of legislative effort that spanned both the 9th and 10th Assemblies.

 

Legislative Journey of the SSDC Bill

 

Speaking with journalists on Wednesday, the lawmaker outlined the long path the bill took before reaching its final approval:

 

The bill was initially passed by the House of Representatives in the 9th Assembly on November 16, 2021, but did not receive Senate concurrence.

 

In the 10th Assembly, Abiante reintroduced the bill on July 25, 2023.

 

The House passed the bill again on July 16, 2024, after which it was forwarded to the Senate.

 

A similar bill was introduced in the Senate by Senator Ekpenyong, leading to a conference committee reconciliation process.

 

The harmonized version was sent to President Tinubu, who has now signed it into law.

 

 

Need for Competent Leadership in SSDC

 

Rep. Abiante emphasized that for the SSDC to achieve its mandate, it must be managed by men and women of impeccable character who can effectively tackle the region’s infrastructural deficits and socio-economic challenges.

 

“Going by the experiences of similar agencies, Mr. President should appoint individuals with integrity to steer the Commission. The South-South has suffered deficits in infrastructure and other critical areas. If this is properly managed, President Tinubu will have written his name in gold,” he stated.

 

Difference Between SSDC and NDDC

 

Addressing concerns about overlapping roles, Abiante clarified that the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) is distinct from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

 

The NDDC includes states outside the South-South region, such as Ondo (South-West) and Imo (South-East), whereas the SSDC is exclusively for the six South-South states.

 

Other regions—North-East, North-West, and North-Central—also have their own development commissions, ensuring regional equity in addressing development challenges.

 

The SSDC’s focus aligns with similar agencies like HYPPADEC (for hydroelectric power-producing areas) and the proposed Solid Minerals Development Commission.

 

 

Challenges Facing the South-South Region

 

Abiante highlighted severe infrastructural gaps in the region, emphasizing that even major cities like Port Harcourt face basic water and electricity shortages.

 

“It’s alarming that, in 2025, many South-South cities still lack access to clean drinking water and consistent electricity. If we cannot guarantee basic amenities in urban areas, what happens to the rural communities?” he questioned.

 

He stressed that industrial growth and economic development are impossible without stable power supply, urging the federal government to prioritize energy solutions for the region.

 

Call for Urgent Action

 

The lawmaker reiterated that the SSDC Act is a step forward, but its success will depend on effective implementation, accountability, and a commitment to regional development. He urged President Tinubu to ensure that the right individuals are appointed to drive the commission’s mission of transforming the South-South.

 

Tinubu at 73: Presidency Schedules Special Prayers for President’s Birthday

By
Roland Edet
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0

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will mark his 73rd birthday on Saturday, March 29, 2025, with a special prayer session organized at the National Mosque in Abuja on Friday, March 28.

 

A statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, noted that the prayer session would be an opportunity for President Tinubu to thank God for preserving and supporting him in his leadership of the country.

 

A Birthday Marked by Spiritual Reflection

 

According to Onanuga, Tinubu’s birthday coincides with the holy month of Ramadan and comes just two months before the second anniversary of his administration. The President has chosen a prayer session over elaborate celebrations, emphasizing spiritual reflection and supplication for Nigeria’s continued peace, progress, and prosperity.

 

“Choosing a prayer session reflects President Tinubu’s dedication to Nigeria’s spiritual and moral well-being, as well as his commitment to seeking divine guidance, insight, and strength in leadership,” the statement read.

 

Tinubu believes in the power of collective prayers to guide the nation toward progress and harmony and has invited Nigerians to join the prayer session in spirit, whether at places of worship or in their personal spaces.

 

Renewed Hope for Nigeria

 

Expressing gratitude for the support of Nigerians, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s focus on economic reforms, national security, and expanding opportunities for all citizens.

 

“I am deeply thankful to Allah for the gift of life and the privilege to serve this great nation,” the President was quoted as saying.

 

“As I mark another birthday and look forward to our second anniversary, my heart is filled with Renewed Hope for Nigeria. I urge all citizens to pray for divine guidance, unity, and healing for our land. Together, we shall overcome challenges and build a nation where every citizen thrives.”

 

Commitment to National Progress

 

The President restated his commitment to:

 

Consolidating Nigeria’s democratic gains

 

Fostering economic recovery

 

Promoting national cohesion

 

 

He urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their belief in Nigeria’s destiny, describing the country as a beacon of hope in Africa.

 

NNPC Ltd Nears Capital Market Listing, Engages Partners for IPO Process

By
Shehu Danladi
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0

 

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) is in the final stage of securing its listing on the capital market, in compliance with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.

 

The company’s Chief Finance and Investor Relations Officer (CFIO), Mr. Olugbenga Oluwaniyi, disclosed this at a consultative meeting with partners at the NNPC Towers in Abuja on Thursday, according to a statement by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye.

 

As part of preparations for the Initial Public Offer (IPO), NNPC Ltd has launched an engagement process with potential partners through an exercise tagged the “NNPC Ltd. IPO Beauty Parade.”

 

Strategic Partnerships for IPO Readiness

 

Oluwaniyi explained that the IPO Beauty Parade aims to assess potential partners and identify how they can support the company in its journey to becoming a publicly listed entity.

 

Key partnership areas required for the listing include:

 

Investor Relations

 

IPO Readiness Advisers

 

Investment Banking Partners

 

 

The CFIO noted that NNPC Ltd would select the most competitive offer in each category to ensure a seamless and successful IPO process.

 

An Initial Public Offering (IPO) is a public offering in which shares of a company are sold to institutional investors, providing a pathway for the company to raise capital from the stock market.

 

The Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 mandates NNPC Ltd to list its shares on the capital market, in alignment with the provisions of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 1990.

 

With this move, NNPC Ltd is set to transition further into a commercially-driven energy company, opening up investment opportunities and enhancing transparency in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

 

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