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Refinery Saga: NNPC Supplies Insufficient Crude Oil to Us , Dangote

By
Uche Kingsley
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Amidst a lingering crisis, Dangote Refinery has revealed that the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) is supplying insufficient crude oil for its production demand, prompting plans to source from Brazil and the United States.

The President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, along with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and NNPC, has been embroiled in disputes ranging from monopoly allegations to crude supply, substandard fuel imports, and ownership of blending plants in Malta.

In a new revelation, Dangote stated that for the $20 billion refinery to meet its production demand, it must seek other sources of crude oil supply overseas as the NNPC allocation is insufficient. The refinery, with a capacity of refining 650,000 barrels per day, cannot rely solely on short supplies from Nigeria’s oil company.

Rabiu A. Umar, Group Chief Commercial Officer of Dangote Industries Limited, told newsmen in Kano on Friday that NNPC supplies only 33 percent of the crude needed by the refinery, necessitating the search for the remaining 67 percent from elsewhere to meet production capacity. Umar disclosed that the refinery had concluded plans to source crude oil from Brazil and the United States by August.

“First of all, the refinery is here in Nigeria. We have the crude oil here in Nigeria. We thought we would get the crude oil here and refine it here in our refinery for the benefit of the country and the citizens. Ironically, the country takes the crude oil overseas for refining while we have a refinery, one of the biggest in the world. So, we will not stay idle. We have to look for other sources to meet our production capacity. If we get the crude oil supply here in the country, we have no reason to go overseas. Even now, we are planning to supply crude oil from countries like Brazil and the USA,” he said.

Umar revealed that the refinery had commenced supplies to foreign countries since February, receiving orders from various countries for supply, especially aviation fuel. He also noted that the refinery needs 15 cargos of crude oil in September, but NNPC has promised only five, lamenting that the government’s lackadaisical actions towards the refinery appear to be sabotage.

He emphasized that the refinery, as the biggest employer of labor with over 50,000 workers, should be celebrated and embraced by the government rather than being painted negatively. Umar asserted that, contrary to the government’s false narratives, the refinery had started on a positive note, producing world-standard quality refined products. He mentioned that the House of Representatives, under its speaker’s leadership, visited the refinery, saw the difference, and was satisfied with the quality of the products.

“We are here to defend ourselves, and all the government narratives are not true. We urge the people to take samples of our products to ascertain their quality. We will not be deterred by the government’s criticism. We will continue until we reach the promised land,” Umar stated.

A business analyst in Kano, Abdussalam Kani, demanded an apology to Dangote from the federal government and the National Assembly. He also deemed NMDPRA boss Ahmed Farouk’s comments against the refinery a treasonable offense deserving punishment.

Pastor Ezekiel Odeyemi’s Stirring Sermon on Restoration Captivates Nigerians

By
Toyin Adebayo
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In a stirring sermon that has captured the hearts of many, Pastor Ezekiel Odeyemi, the Continent Overseer 2 of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), emphasized the biblical theme of restoration, urging Nigerians to hold onto faith amid economic and personal hardships.

He announced this on Saturday in Abuja during a prayer meeting titled “Morning of Joy” with the theme “Restore” organized by the RCCG FCT Province 7, Gwarinpa.

“The whole of the Bible is a single story of restoration. All you need to do is to take time to read through. In Genesis, humans lost the garden, and in Revelation, God restores it back,” Pastor Odeyemi began, addressing a packed congregation. “Whatever it may be that you might have lost through your carelessness or otherwise, the Lord will restore it in Jesus’ name.”

Reflecting on his personal journey, Pastor Odeyemi recounted a challenging period two decades ago when his health was failing, impacting his ability to fulfill his ministerial duties.

“I discovered that I was struggling to survive and yet had a lot of ministration to do. And I realized there was one thing I was not doing right. As soon as I corrected it, today, I am stronger than I used to be 20 years ago.”

Drawing from Luke 13:10-13, he spoke about a woman who had suffered for 18 years before Jesus healed her, using her story to highlight the importance of unwavering faith.

“We live at a time when our heads are bowed down by what the economic situation has done. This woman did not stop going to church, unlike people today. Under no circumstances must you stop coming to church, no matter what the enemy throws at you.”

Pastor Odeyemi structured his message into three key outlines: Restoration to Individuals, Restoration to Families, and Restoration to the Whole City.

Buttressing the Restoration of Individuals, he emphasized that Jesus’ healing power is absolute and nothing is too difficult for Him. “On a particular day, the Lord took notice of her and attended to her case, and that infirmity disappeared. Why did Jesus heal her? Because there is nothing absolutely difficult for Him to do. Luke 1:37 says, ‘For with God, nothing shall be impossible.’ Don’t put God in the same category as your government. You put all your faith in a government that at times does not know its way.”

Also, while speaking on Restoration at the Family Level, Pastor Odeyemi recalled the story of the widow in 1 Kings 17:8-15, who, despite facing famine, was instructed by God to feed the prophet Elijah. Her obedience led to abundant provision.

“There are several things you cannot change in life, so why worry about them? Like the dollar rising against the naira. Leave each day by faith; the Bible says ‘the just shall live by faith.’ How God will feed your family, I don’t know, but your blessings will come to your house. God will not let you be put to shame in this time of famine.”

Similarly, while hinting on Restoration of the Whole City, he cited 2 Kings 2:19-22, Pastor Odeyemi expressed hope for Nigeria’s future despite its current challenges. “The situation of Nigeria looks so hopeless, but I believe something good will come out of it. Elijah spoke the word, and the barren land was healed. The land of Nigeria will prosper you.”

Pastor Odeyemi urged Nigerians to study the word of God and embrace its power. “Every word possesses power. Take all stories as if they appear for you. When it is your time, the Lord will create a vacancy for you. Just receive it.”

In closing, he reminded the congregation of the transformative power of faith and divine intervention. “Our strength lies in our ability to come together, support one another, and work collectively toward a better Nigeria. Let us all remember the words of our Lord Jesus Christ: ‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God’ (Matthew 5:9).”

As Nigeria faces its current trials, Pastor Odeyemi’s message of restoration offers a beacon of hope and a call to unwavering faith, resonating deeply with individuals, families, and communities across the nation.

Transforming Abuja: Firm Presents Strategic Roadmap for Smart City by 2040

By
Toyin Adebayo
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In a landmark move towards digital transformation, Havel Corporate Concept, an affiliate of ioSafe Nigeria, unveiled a comprehensive Strategic Road Map for the Abuja Smart City Project during the 2024 Nigeria Data Expo and Conference yesterday in Abuja.

The event, which took place in Abuja, also saw the launch of the project’s logo and official website.

Dr. Ahmed Badanga, Chief Executive Officer of Havel Corporate Concept and convener of the project, articulated the ambitious vision to transform Nigeria’s capital city into a smart city by 2040.

This initiative is designed to align with and support the ongoing transformation efforts spearheaded by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike.

“Only a few services and transactions taking place in Abuja, from the studies and data we have collected, are being done digitally. So many services are being delivered manually and for that reason, we feel it is time to digitalise services in Abuja,” Badanga stated.

Highlighting the crucial role of data, Badanga noted that the data expo and conference aim to raise awareness about the integral link between data and the smart city project. “You cannot talk about smart cities without talking about data; they are intertwined. We have been promoting data awareness and promoting data issues in Nigeria for about 10 years now and we feel there is a need for us to also see how we can utilise the opportunity of having the right infrastructure to transit Abuja to a smart city,” he added.

Meanwhile,Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner of the Nigeria Data Protection Commission, underscored the indispensable nature of data in planning and policy-making. “Without data, you can’t plan; without data, you can’t have a policy. What we are doing here today is really important and strategic for national planning, socio-economic development, and sustainable development of the country,” Olatunji emphasized.

He also pointed out the rapid growth of Abuja and the necessity of planning to avoid future chaos. “If you plan, you will envisage the number of people that come in, you look at the kind of infrastructure you want to put in place. You will also look at the kind of social amenities you want to put in place, the kind of security that you want to put in place, business opportunities in the city, housing urbanisation, and the rest,”Olatunji elaborated.

Adding an international perspective, Mr. Robb Moore, a Data and Smart Grid Specialist from the United States, emphasized the need for innovative minds to drive the transformation. “If you don’t have the people here in Nigeria that are willing to take the chance, make the business, make it grow, risk everything, you won’t have the creators or the agents that make things grow. You must be able to listen to people who are telling you what others are not telling you to make a difference,” Moore advised

Mr. Nasiru Usman, Vice-Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), lauded the Abuja Smart City Initiative as crucial for transforming Abuja into a befitting capital city. He highlighted AMAC’s partnerships with relevant government agencies on data generation and management to address security concerns.

“Efforts are ongoing to empower residents of the council with information and communication technology skills. This will enable the people to tap from the opportunities the digital-driven world provides,”Usman concluded.

As the Abuja Smart City Project gains momentum, the collaborative efforts between government bodies, technology firms, and data specialists promise to usher in a new era of digital efficiency and urban sophistication for Nigeria’s capital.

Forecasting a Brighter Future: FCTA Launches Climate Change Adaptation Campaign for Farmers

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched a farmer sensitization campaign to equip farmers with vital climate information to mitigate the impact of climate change on agricultural activities.

The campaign, flagged off in Gwagwalada, aims to downscale the 2024 NiMeT Seasonal Climate Prediction to farmers, providing them with timely and accurate information on weather conditions, planting schedules, and crop selection.

Mandate Secretary, Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat, Lawan Kolo Geidam, emphasized the critical impact of climate change on agriculture, citing unpredictable weather patterns, global warming, drought, and extreme weather conditions that threaten food and nutrition security.

The campaign, in partnership with NiMeT, aims to enhance farmers’ capacity to adapt to climate-related risks, boost agricultural productivity, and achieve food self-sufficiency.

The FCTA assured its commitment to fostering a conducive environment for the agriculture sector, citing successful partnerships with projects like ACReSAL, JICA, and IITA.

The NiMeT Seasonal Climate Prediction report provides comprehensive information for all states in the federation and the FCT, including detailed data at the Area Council level.

The Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone Project in the FCT is supporting the downscaling exercise, providing institutional support to ensure critical climate information reaches all six Area Councils and 17 chiefdoms of the FCT.

Mobilizing for a Smart Abuja: Havel Corporate Concept Backs Wike’s Vision

By
Toyin Adebayo
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The Havel Corporate Concept, an affiliate of ioSafe Nigeria, has announced its support for Mr. Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), in transforming Abuja into a smart city. Dr. Ahmed Badanga, CEO of the group and convener of the Abuja Smart City Project, made this declaration following a roadwalk in Abuja on Monday.

The roadwalk was organized to raise awareness among Abuja residents about the upcoming Nigeria Expo Conference and the unveiling of the Strategic Road Map for the Abuja Smart City Project. Dr. Badanga praised Minister Wike’s investments in infrastructure development and other sectors, which are rapidly enhancing the city’s status as a befitting capital.

“Beyond infrastructure, we need technology to drive the city and make access to critical services automated and smart,” Dr. Badanga emphasized. The Abuja Smart City Project, developed in collaboration with key stakeholders, aims to enhance 40 services, including governance, transport, tourism, health, business, and residential areas.

Scheduled for July 23, the conference will focus on leveraging data to transform Abuja into a smart city, impacting all six Area Councils. “Abuja has the necessary infrastructure to become smart like other global cities,” Dr. Badanga stated.

“The essence of tomorrow’s discussion is to bring stakeholders together to unveil the strategic roadmap for the smart city project. This roadmap will outline our plans to make Abuja a smart city, comparable to the best in the world,” he added. The project, set to be delivered in phases from 2024 to 2040, envisions transforming Abuja into a technologically driven city like Dubai and Hong Kong by 2040.

Key partners in the project’s implementation include Galaxy Backbone, the National Information Technology Development Agency, the Nigerian Communications Commission, and the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, the Federal Capital Territory Administration, and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) are also crucial collaborators.

Mr. Robb Moore, founder of ioSafe Nigeria, expressed his enthusiasm for the project during his first visit to Abuja. “We are excited to talk about smart cities and smart data at the conference and how to make Abuja and Nigeria grow,” he said. “I will share my experiences from Silicon Valley on growing companies and using technology to strengthen Nigeria.”

Mr. Sunday Ichedi, Director of the Communication and Public Relations Department at NBS, emphasized the critical role of data in the project’s success. He assured that NBS is committed to providing all necessary data for the initiative.

Mr. Johnson Oke, Head of ICT at FCDA, highlighted the authority’s pivotal role in automating infrastructural development and municipal services. “Developed countries drive their services and infrastructure through the smart city initiative, and we aim to do the same in Abuja,” Oke stated.

The collaboration between Havel Corporate Concept, ioSafe Nigeria, and various federal and local agencies promises to propel Abuja into a future where technology seamlessly integrates with daily life, creating a smart city that serves all its residents efficiently and effectively.

Your Appointed Time is Now: Embrace God’s Waiting Room

By
Toyin Adebayo
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RCCG Pastor’s Wife Inspires Singles, Mingle Event in Abuja

During the Single Mingle event on Sunday in Abuja, Pastor Mrs. Moyomola Okemuyiwa, the wife of the pastor in charge of The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) FCT Province 7, delivered a powerful sermon titled “The Waiting Room,” drawing inspiration from Habakkuk 2:3.

“Do many of us have visions? Today is the appointed time for you. Your vision will no longer tarry again. You must fulfill your purpose,” Pastor Mrs. Okemuyiwa declared, emphasizing the urgency and certainty of God’s timing. “Though it tarries, wait for it. Wait for the promise of God to be fulfilled in your life because it will no longer tarry.”

Drawing further inspiration from Isaiah 40:31, she likened God’s waiting room to a place where believers can hear from God and grow spiritually. “A waiting room could be a room where God speaks to you. You must open your ears attentively to hear from God. Some of you are going through emotional torture; God will speak for you,” she reassured the attendees.

Pastor Mrs. Okemuyiwa stressed the spiritual significance of waiting on the Lord, encouraging singles to embrace calmness, trust in God, and not focus solely on the end result. “God’s waiting room is a spiritual thing. You find favor in your waiting room. Wait on the Lord; your appointed time is now.”

She urged attendees to spend time growing in their faith and allowing God to direct their paths. “Embrace calmness, trust Him, don’t focus on the end result, spend time to grow, and let God direct you.”

The event left many inspired and encouraged, reminding them that their appointed time is now, and their visions will no longer tarry.

Revolutionizing Healthcare: Dr. Adam Calls for Ethical Overhaul in FCT’s Healthcare System

By
Toyin Adebayo
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In a passionate and no-holds-barred address at the recent Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) One Day Conference, Dr. Baba Gana Adam, Permanent Secretary, called for an urgent ethical revolution within the FCT healthcare system.

His panel discussion on the topic “Patients, Voice, and Participant, Human Dignity, and Reducing Patients’ wait period for a more friendly Primary Healthcare Delivery” resonated deeply with attendees, emphasizing the need for accountability, transparency, and grassroots healthcare reform.

Dr. Adam’s approach is grounded in practical, patient-centered accountability, stressing the importance of addressing healthcare needs at the grassroots level.

He highlighted the potential of smartphone technology in rural areas and urged less dependency on foreign donors.

Dr. Adam’s vision for reform includes stringent training and a culture of accountability, calling for a comprehensive commitment from all stakeholders.

He called for a comprehensive commitment from all stakeholders government, citizens, and communities. “When recruiting for primary healthcare centers, ensure that locals with the necessary skills are trained and engaged. There would be accountability in the system.”

Dr. Baba Gana Adam’s candid and powerful address serves as a clarion call for an ethical revolution in FCT’s healthcare system. His emphasis on grassroots involvement, digital innovation, and stringent accountability lays a solid foundation for transforming healthcare delivery, ensuring it truly serves the people it is meant to protect and heal.

FG Clamps Down On Illegal Gold Site, Arrests 7 Suspects

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The nationwide onslaught of the federal government against illegal mining has gathered momentum with the arrest of several suspects allegedly involved in the illegal mining of gold in Yagba East LGA, Kogi State.

This was contained in a statement made available to newsmen on Friday by Mr Segun Tomori, the Special Assistant on Media to the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development.

The operation, carried out by the mining marshals in Iyeh Odogbe, Isanlu community of Yagba East LGA, involved dislodging illegal miners whose activities have prevented lawfully authorized miners with licenses covering four cadastral units from accessing the site for 16 years. Reports indicate that the nefarious activities have gone unhindered for over 20 years.

The well-coordinated operation, led by Commander, Mining Marshals, ACC Attah John Onoja, resulted in the arrest of seven (7) suspects heading different groups of illegal miners in the area.

Following the successful operation, site workers were given 5 days to completely vacate the site as operations to effectively secure the area and ensure it is fully recovered for lawful mining activities will continue in earnest.

It will be recalled that a similar operation was carried out recently by the mining marshals in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, leading to the arrest of eight (8) Chinese nationals and a Nigerian, suspected to be involved in illegal mining.

The trial of the suspects commenced last week at the Federal High Court, Abuja division, and they were remanded in Kuje prisons until the adjourned date.

The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, under the leadership of Dr. Dele Alake is committed to fighting the menace of illegal mining headlong and bringing culprits to book

Economic Crisis Threatens Nigeria’s Healthcare System, Warns Dr. Christopher Otabor

By
Toyin Adebayo
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***Healthcare Chief Urges Government Action , Innovation Amidst Growing Health Crisis

Dr. Christopher Otabor, Chief Medical Director of Alliance Hospital, has sounded a grave warning about the impact of Nigeria’s economic crisis on the nation’s healthcare system, stating that it is resulting in an alarming increase in deaths.

“The economy is taking a direct hit on our health system, and people are dying in their numbers. We can’t hide from that, and we cannot afford to keep quiet, fold our hands, and do nothing. We must respond,” Dr. Otabor declared during his keynote address at a lecture organised by the Medical and Dental Consultant Association of Nigeria (MDCAN) on Thursday in Abuja.

Dr. Otabor called for innovation among healthcare professionals to mitigate the crisis. “We must think of new ways of doing things and improve the health situation to make the best out of the already bad situation,” he emphasized. He urged the government at all levels to take responsibility and act decisively, noting, “We cannot continue to behave like drunken sailors in a sinking ship. There is a crisis in the land, and things cannot continue as usual.”

Highlighting the severe impact of the economic downturn, Dr. Otabor explained, “Whenever there is an economic crisis, it takes a terrible toll on healthcare. We are facing inflation rates we haven’t seen in recent years, compounded by a high misery index. When you have inflation coupled with unemployment, that’s misery.

Additionally, there’s stagflation due to the lack of economic growth, inflation, and unemployment. These three factors are hitting the system hard, affecting the health of the population.”

Dr. Otabor detailed the cascading effects of the crisis, including disruptions in the healthcare supply chain, reduced demand for healthcare services, malnutrition, late presentation at hospitals, and increased incidence and complications of both communicable and non-communicable diseases.

“People are not able to access healthcare, and even the supply chain is affected. Many companies are folding up and leaving the country, making the cost of healthcare supplies even more out of reach for ordinary people.

People are committing suicide over a thousand naira anti-malarial medicine because they can’t afford it. Most now patronize quacks because they can’t afford to come to the hospital,” he lamented.

Dr. Otabor called for innovative solutions to reach as many people as possible. “We must come up with new ways to enable us to provide care to the masses despite the economic challenges,” he urged. He also highlighted the broader impacts of the economic crisis on population health, including increased domestic violence, mental health problems, suicide rates, and overall mortality.

“We must take responsibility at both government and hospital levels to ensure we make the best out of the little resources available and address this crisis head-on,” Dr. Otabor concluded.

The Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre, Prof. Saad Aliyu Ahmed, who hosted the event, revealed that the hospital management is seeking collaborative partnerships to drive research programs, including signing an MoU with Base University. Represented by the Head of Clinical Services, Dr. Muftau Bioku, Prof. Ahmed expressed unwavering support for the Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), emphasizing, “Our doors are open to all.”

In her welcome speech, MDCAN Chairman Dr. Eziechila Bassie highlighted the relevance of this year’s theme, “Crisis Response: Strengthening Health Systems During Economic Uncertainty,” considering the current economic challenges in the country. “We are experiencing unprecedented economic hardship,” Dr. Bassie stated. “The inflation rate is soaring, severely impacting the masses and affecting every aspect of our lives, including health.

Although the Nigerian government has made efforts to reach common Nigerians through the National Health Insurance Act, the percentage of Nigerians, especially the most vulnerable, who have benefited remains alarmingly low. One wonders what our health indices will look like in a couple of years if the economic situation is not adequately addressed.”

Defence Minister Calls For Synergy With F.U.D On Conflict Resolution , Military Equipment Production

By
Victor Obabunmi
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0

…Our doors are open for possible collaboration- Badaru.

The Honourable Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, has urged the Federal University Dutse, Jigawa State (FUD) to partner with the Ministry Defence on Conflict resolution and
research on Military equipment production and repair through Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria.

Receiving the Vice Chancellor of FUD, Professor Abdulkarim Sabo Mohammed and Management Staff of the University in Ship House, Abuja, the Minister said the Ministry is open for possible collaboration with the Federal University Dutse and other indigenous companies in areas of conflict resolution and production of defence equipment.He emphasized the importance of collaboration in conflict resolution studies and research for defence hardware production.

“With our DICON Bill, we are encouraging our indigenous companies to be involved in the production of weapons, ammunition and spare parts for our military hardware,” he said.

The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) is a Nigerian company responsible for the production of military equipment and hardware for the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Its main objective is to achieve self-sufficiency in military equipment production, reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, and enhance Nigeria’s defence capabilities.

The Minister commended the Vice Chancellor for his leadership and innovations, urging for sustained collaboration for national benefit.

On his part, the Vice Chancellor of Federal University Dutse, Professor Abdulkarim Sabo Mohammed congratulated the Minister on his achievements, acknowledging his contributions to the University’s development during and after his tenure as Jigawa State Governor, including the establishment of the University’s Teaching Hospital and flagship structures. “Your contributions to the development of our University as the Executive Governor
of Jigawa state is enormous and unprecedented and also your continued contributions to date” he said.

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