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Reps Launch Probe into National Health Insurance Failures, Mourn Killing of 13 Kaduna Travellers

By
Saladin Babagana
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The House of Representatives on Tuesday ordered a sweeping investigation into the persistent failures of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and its affiliated Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), citing poor service delivery, corruption, and inadequate access to care for Nigerians.

This decision followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance by Hon. Dr. Billy Osawaru, who decried the dismal performance of the NHIA despite reforms introduced through the NHIA Act of 2022.

> “Only about five percent of Nigerians are enrolled in the scheme—this is unacceptable,” Osawaru said. “Enrollees are routinely denied access to life-saving procedures like cesarean sections and appendectomies, while providers go unpaid for months.”

He accused HMOs of frustrating the goals of universal health coverage through delays in payments, limited access to essential drugs, and rising out-of-pocket costs that leave vulnerable Nigerians in despair.

The House subsequently mandated the Director-General of the NHIA to work with its Committee on Healthcare Services to examine the system’s failures and propose reforms. The Committees on Healthcare Services and Health Institutions were also directed to investigate the NHIA and report back in four weeks.

Meanwhile, the House condemned the brutal killing of 13 unarmed travellers from Unguwan Rimi in Sabon Gari LGA of Kaduna State, who were ambushed and murdered in Mangu LGA of Plateau State on June 20, while en route to a wedding.

Raising the motion, Rep. Sadiq Ango Abdullahi described the massacre as a “heinous, senseless act” and blamed worsening inter-state insecurity for the tragedy.

“These were innocent Nigerians on a peaceful journey, yet they became victims of growing criminality and unchecked violence,” he said.

Lawmakers observed a minute’s silence for the slain victims and demanded immediate action from the Inspector-General of Police, the DSS Director-General, and the Chief of Army Staff to investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The House called on the Federal Government to strengthen inter-state security frameworks to protect travellers and urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the victims’ families.

An ad-hoc committee was set up to investigate the recurring violence on that route and report back within two weeks, while relevant committees on security were tasked with ensuring compliance with all resolutions.

“The security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government,” the House reaffirmed, citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution.

PDP Crisis Deepens as Metuh, Ologbondiyan Slam Damagum Over Attack on Ologunagba

By
Uche Kingsley
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Tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) escalated on Tuesday as former party spokespersons and senior members condemned Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, for disowning a statement made by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba.

Ologunagba had, during a media parley on Sunday, reiterated the party’s stance that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) could not stop the PDP’s 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for June 30. However, in a surprise move, Damagum issued a statement on Monday distancing the party from Ologunagba’s remarks, claiming the spokesman acted without authorization from the National Working Committee (NWC).

“The comment by Hon. Debo Ologunagba was made without the authority or approval of the NWC,” Damagum said in the statement.

The fallout drew sharp reactions from prominent PDP figures, including former National Publicity Secretaries, Kola Ologbondiyan and Olisa Metuh, who described Damagum’s action as an affront to party leadership structures and a threat to internal cohesion.

> “Damagum came after Ologunagba for re-echoing the unanimous resolution of our NEC. This is completely unacceptable and a major affront to the authority of NEC, the NWC, and the sensibility of all PDP members,” Ologbondiyan wrote on Facebook.

He warned that the Acting Chairman’s statement undermines the party’s constitution and could damage its credibility. He urged PDP leaders to act quickly to prevent further internal sabotage.

Olisa Metuh, who also took to social media, said the development was deeply troubling and could erode public trust in the party’s communication channels.

> “I hope this is fake news. Otherwise, it’s an act capable of bringing the party into great disrepute. This is a cardinal offence against the party’s constitution,” Metuh stated.

He expressed concern for the future of the PDP, recalling his 17 years of dedicated service to the party.

“How can the public believe future statements from the National Publicity Secretary if the leadership openly discredits him?” he queried.

The National Ex-Officio Members of the PDP also weighed in, backing Ologunagba and expressing shock at Damagum’s response. In a statement jointly signed by Hon. Chief Faboyede Clement and Hon. Comfort Yassan, they said Ologunagba acted within his constitutional role as party spokesman.

“The media interaction was in line with his duty to communicate the resolutions and activities of the party. We reaffirm our confidence in him and express our full support,” the Ex-Officio members stated.

They further reminded Damagum that as Acting Chairman, he is expected to uphold the party’s constitution and implement decisions made by its organs.

With the 100th NEC meeting approaching, the public fallout signals a growing internal struggle for control and direction within Nigeria’s main opposition party. Observers say how the PDP manages this controversy could shape its image and unity ahead of the 2027 elections.

2027: Barau Rejects VP Campaign, Urges Northern Groups to Back Tinubu’s Agenda

By
Uche Kingsley
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Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has firmly distanced himself from calls by some northern groups urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider him as a potential running mate in the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, on Tuesday, Senator Barau warned against such premature political campaigns, particularly those led by the Northern Nigeria Progressive Youth Assembly (NNPYA), describing them as misplaced and counterproductive.

“My attention has been drawn to various posts on social media and in some national dailies by groups including the Northern Nigeria Progressive Youth Assembly (NNPYA), urging President Tinubu to pick me as his running mate in 2027. This is out of place and not in our collective best interest at this moment,” Barau said.

The Kano-born lawmaker, who also serves as the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, appealed to his supporters and political groups to direct their energy toward supporting the current administration’s efforts to address Nigeria’s numerous challenges.

> “If you are truly my supporters, please desist from this unnecessary clamour and join the train to restore the glorious days of our country under the able leadership of President Tinubu. Let us rally around him to continue delivering on his lofty programmes under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he added.

Barau reiterated his unwavering commitment to the success of President Tinubu’s administration, urging Nigerians to focus on national progress rather than political positioning.

> “This is not the time for such political distractions. What should be paramount to all of us now is the success of the President. He is genuinely committed to turning around our country’s fortunes positively,” the statement read.

The Deputy Senate President emphasized that the policies of the Tinubu administration were beginning to bear fruit and called on all Nigerians to be part of the effort to restore the country’s prosperity.

“Let us support the President in continuing his programmes and policies. Together, we can build a better Nigeria,” he said.

Nigeria Taps Brazil’s Health Blueprint to Fast-Track Universal Health Coverage, Local Drug Manufacturing

By
Toyin Adebayo
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Nigeria is seeking to deepen health sector collaboration with Brazil as part of a broader strategy to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC), expand local pharmaceutical production, and reform its healthcare system under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

This was the focus of discussions at the 2nd Session of the Nigeria–Brazil Strategic Dialogue Mechanism held Tuesday in Abuja, where the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, outlined Nigeria’s ambitious health reform agenda and proposed a new bilateral framework to drive progress.

“President Tinubu’s administration is committed to prioritizing health through increased investments and strategic policies,” Salako said. “With a 52% rise in health budget over two years and 21 policy reforms, we are laying the foundation for a resilient and inclusive health system.”

Salako emphasized the need to learn from Brazil’s Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) a globally lauded public healthcare model that delivers free services to over 70% of Brazilians and has contributed to a 77% decline in infant mortality since 1990.

“Brazil’s achievements in public health, generic drug legislation, and pharmaceutical production provide valuable lessons as we work to unlock our healthcare value chain and expand access to care,” he said.

Nigeria’s Key Health Sector Gains (Q1 2025):

Primary Health Reach: Over 37 million Nigerians served.

Workforce Expansion: Reduced hiring delays, increased capacity through task-shifting and training.

Health Insurance Growth: Coverage up by over 15% in one year, with new packages for vulnerable groups.

Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) Reform: Improved transparency and timely disbursements.

Pharmaceutical Boost: 87 local manufacturers now benefit from incentives under the Presidential Value Chain Initiative.

WHO Recognition: Two Nigerian-made medicines received WHO prequalification — the first in West and Central Africa.

Hospital Projects: 12 new tertiary hospitals and over 500 projects across 61 institutions, including six new cancer centres.

Digital Innovation: Launch of the Nigerian Digital in Health Initiative.

Preventive Health: Rollout of HPV and malaria vaccines, and renewed cervical cancer elimination efforts.

Salako described the NASENI–Troment Biotechnology Factory as a success story in local manufacturing and called for deeper cooperation with Brazil in joint pharmaceutical ventures, vaccine production, research, and health workforce development.

Proposed Nigeria–Brazil Health Collaboration Areas:

Joint Ventures: In pharmaceuticals and vaccine manufacturing.

Research and Innovation: On infectious and non-communicable diseases.

Training Exchanges: Capacity building for Nigerian health professionals.

Disease Surveillance: Leveraging Brazil’s expertise in vector control and public health response.

Policy Framework: Creation of a Nigeria–Brazil Health Cooperation Framework and a Five-Year Joint Action Plan.

The Minister expressed optimism that ongoing engagements with Brazilian officials, including the Vice President’s visit, would lead to a formal partnership that advances healthcare delivery in both countries.

“We are confident that this partnership, backed by political will and a shared vision, will deliver long-term benefits for the people of Nigeria and Brazil, and contribute meaningfully to global health equity,” Salako concluded.

The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare says it views this collaboration as a key driver in achieving Nigeria’s goal of building a strong, resilient, and self-reliant health system by 2030.

BREAKING: Chaos Erupts at SDP Headquarters as Punch Reporter Assaulted, Arise TV Camera Seized

By
Toyin Adebayo
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A meeting of the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) National Working Committee (NWC) descended into chaos on Tuesday as journalists were assaulted and equipment vandalized at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.

The incident occurred at the party’s headquarters located at 16 Nairobi Street, Off Parakou Estate, Wuse II, where reporters had gathered to cover the high-stakes meeting amid the suspension of the party’s National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, over allegations of financial misconduct.

During the melee, Francis Adebayo, a journalist with The Punch, had his shirt torn in a scuffle, while the camera of Arise TV was seized by unidentified individuals. The camera was only recovered after swift intervention by a correspondent from The Nation newspaper.

Though the exact trigger of the violence remains unclear, eyewitnesses linked the chaos to mounting tensions within the party over recent leadership controversies and increased media scrutiny.

Party officials have yet to release an official statement on the incident, but the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and other media advocacy groups are calling for a thorough investigation and sanctions against those responsible for the attack on members of the press.

The incident has sparked outrage among media professionals, raising concerns over press freedom and the safety of journalists covering political events in Nigeria.

Tinubu Commissions Key Abuja Expressway to Decongest City, Drive Investment

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

As traffic pressure and population growth intensify across Nigeria’s capital, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that road infrastructure is designed to decongest Abuja’s road network and unlock economic potential.

Represented by Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, President Tinubu on Tuesday inaugurated the newly completed right-hand service carriageway of the Inner Northern Expressway (INEX), linking Route 3 to the Murtala Mohammed Expressway.

“It is with great pride and fulfillment I stand before you today to commission this project,” he said while delivering the President’s remarks. “This road is more than concrete and asphalt it is a symbol of progress and a cornerstone of our infrastructure renewal agenda.”

The President described the project as a critical component of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Master Plan, aimed at easing congestion, enhancing connectivity, and improving urban mobility for millions of residents and businesses.

He praised the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for his leadership and swift delivery of the project, saying the minister’s vision is helping shape a more livable and future-ready city.

“You have contributed to something larger than a roadway you’ve contributed to the future of our capital,” Tinubu noted.

The expressway is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce travel time, and open up access to housing, commerce, and investment opportunities in adjoining districts.

“This road will not only decongest key junctions but also facilitate safer, faster movement within Abuja’s transportation corridors,” the President said. “It is a direct boost to economic activity and quality of life.”

Reaffirming his administration’s broader commitment to infrastructure-driven development, Tinubu said similar projects will be replicated across all regions of the country.

“We are determined to replicate these successes in every part of Nigeria roads, bridges, railways and more ensuring that no region is left behind.”

He also appealed to residents to protect the infrastructure and use it responsibly.

“Obey traffic rules and safeguard public assets. These roads belong to all of us and future generations,” Tinubu advised.

Earlier, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to infrastructural renewal as he commissioned the 16-kilometre Idu-Zuba Expressway a long-abandoned project now completed at a revised cost of N31 billion.

According to him, the road, initially awarded in 2014 at N7 billion but stalled for over a decade, was delivered under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Wike said the project was revived and fast-tracked because of the President’s resolve to complete critical infrastructure that has direct economic impact.

“This project was awarded in 2014 for N7 billion, and 11 years later it is finally completed at N31 billion. If we had committed just N500 million monthly from our IGR, this could have been finished in a year. That’s simple arithmetic,” Wike said.

Area Council Polls: Show Your Scorecard, Wike Tells Political Opponents at Idu-Zuba Road Commissioning

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has dared political aspirants eyeing seats in the upcoming Area Council elections to show tangible evidence of development, warning that only those with real achievements can win the people’s trust.

Wike issued the challenge on Tuesday while commissioning the newly completed 16-kilometre Idu-Zuba Expressway a project first awarded in 2014 but stalled for years and now delivered at a revised cost of N31 billion under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“We will show roads, bus terminals, and schools. The work we’ve done is our campaign. The project is the rigging when you give the people what they want, the result is clear,” Wike declared.

The Minister said the Idu-Zuba road, once neglected, is now a key artery for industrial and economic expansion in Abuja, particularly with its direct access to the Idu Industrial Park, which he said could create over 40,000 direct jobs if fully operational.

“This is Abuja’s industrial hub. But for years, companies couldn’t move forward because they had no C-of-O. When we came in and saw the setback, we issued the certificates in two weeks. Today, activities have resumed,” he said.

Wike criticised past delays in the project’s execution, noting that with steady funding from Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), the road could have been completed in just one year.

“If N500 million was paid monthly from IGR, this would’ve been done in a year. But it dragged for 11 years. That’s unacceptable,” he said.

He also revealed that the contractor has offered to complete the left-hand side of the expressway if the federal government provides tax concessions a proposal already sent to the Ministry of Finance for consideration.

Wike further raised concerns about bureaucratic bottlenecks, such as the years-long delay in approving the contractor’s request to cross the railway line for project completion.

“No investor will come if basic infrastructure is lacking. It’s our duty as government to create the enabling environment,” the Minister emphasized.

He lauded President Tinubu for his commitment to infrastructure renewal, noting that within just 10 days, the President and his representatives have commissioned 10 major projects across the FCT.

“Mr. President has come five times himself and delegated the Senate President, Speaker, and Deputy Senate President on other occasions. That’s real leadership,” Wike said.

Using a local proverb, Wike attributed the success of the FCT projects to strong presidential support.

“When you see a monkey jumping from tree to tree, it’s because the trees are close. If the trees are far apart, the monkey falls. We’re achieving results because Mr. President is backing us,” he quipped.

The completion of the Idu-Zuba Expressway is expected to ease traffic congestion, enhance access to industrial areas, and boost inclusive development across Abuja and its satellite town reinforcing the Tinubu administration’s focus on infrastructure-led transformation.

Wike Hails Tinubu as Rural Transformer, Says Over 150km of Roads Delivered in Satellite Towns

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

…Minister lists completed projects across six FCT area councils, calls for real farmers to boost food security

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has declared President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a true champion of rural development, revealing that over 150 kilometers of roads have been constructed and commissioned in the FCT’s satellite towns since May 2023.

Wike made the remarks on Saturday during the commissioning of the newly completed A2 Junction–Pai Town Road, a project he described as one of the most significant among several infrastructure interventions carried out under Tinubu’s administration.

“Today, of all the commissions, this one, for me, I consider very, very important,” Wike said.
“I recall telling Mr. President it would be great if he could visit just one of the rural roads and see how joyous the people would be. If you look opposite you today, you will see that the people are very, very, very happy.”

The Minister explained that the construction of the Pai-Gomani axis became critical when the road beyond Pai was already under construction. He thanked the contractor for completing the stretch in time to mark the President’s second year in office, and announced that the next phase from Gomani to Yangoji (13 km) is set to begin.

Wike, who gave a detailed breakdown of completed rural road projects under President Tinubu’s watch, said:

“When we were appointed in August 2023, in your supplementary budget, you approved our request for emergency roads. You provided funds, and today I want to inform you that all six emergency roads across the six area councils have been commissioned.”

The six completed roads include: Paikon Kore–Ibwa Road (9 km) in Gwagwalada; Gaba–Tokulo Road with bridge in Bwari Area Council; Garage Junction–U.S. Secretariat Road (5 km) in Kuje; Yangoji–Sukuku–Ebo Road (11 km) in Kwali; Saburi 1 & 2 Access Road (5 km) in AMAC; and A2 Junction–Pai Town Road in Kwali Area Council

He further announced upcoming projects for this year’s commissioning, including: 10 km Aguma Palace–Radio–New Market Road in Gwagwalada; 18 km Nyanya–Karshi Dual Carriageway; 7.4 km Old Ushafa Road and rehabilitation of Lower Usuma Dam; and 16.4 km Dualisation from Ushafa War College to Kaduna Checkpoint

“When you calculate all the completed and ongoing roads in the satellite towns, you have done not less than 150 kilometers. People should not think everything happens only in the city,” Wike emphasized.

He linked the rural road network to security and food security, stating that inaccessible rural areas are no longer vulnerable due to improved infrastructure.

“Assuming there is a crime, how would the police enter here before? It was not possible. But with these roads, we are opening up rural communities for prosperity and peace,” he said.

On agriculture, the Minister urged genuine farmers to take advantage of available farmlands, promising government compensation and support.

“We are willing to pay compensation to communities and give land to real farmers not political farmers who will sit on land and speculate. We want to solve food problems, and your support has given us the ability to act.”

Wike expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu for trusting him with the responsibility and backing him with resources and political will to execute.

“You can give someone an appointment, but if you don’t give him support, he can’t succeed. You have given us both appointment and support, and we are grateful,” he said.
“When the people are happy, you will be happy. And I’m sure as you leave here today, you will be very, very happy even when you get to the Villa.”

The event, which drew applause from community leaders and residents, is part of a series of project inaugurations marking President Tinubu’s second year in office.

Tinubu: We’re Turning Rural Challenges into Gateways for Prosperity

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

…Commissions A2–Pia Road, Lauds Wike’s Rural Projects, Pledges More Inclusive Development

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to transform Nigeria’s rural communities into vibrant hubs of prosperity through sustained infrastructure development and agricultural expansion.

Speaking on Monday at the official commissioning of the newly constructed 15-kilometre A2 Junction–Pia Town Road in Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the President described the project as a game-changer for rural connectivity and economic revitalization.

“Rural communities such as Pia contribute immensely to Nigeria’s economy, particularly in agriculture and local enterprises,” Tinubu said. “But for too long, they have suffered isolation and neglect. Today, that narrative is changing.”

He stressed that infrastructure projects must not be limited to urban centres, but should be deliberately targeted at improving the livelihoods of rural dwellers.

“The road and infrastructure development are meaningless if we don’t develop them for the benefit of our people. This project will elevate lives as we continue to prioritize infrastructure development across all zones.”

The President also used the occasion to call for the establishment of ranches and grazing corridors, pointing to their role in ending conflicts and improving food production.

“I observed the need for our great farmers and livestock owners to establish grazing opportunities. We will help you. We will work with you. What used to be a source of conflict can now become a channel of prosperity,” he said.

Addressing the residents directly, Tinubu urged the Pia community to take full ownership of the new infrastructure.

“This is your road. Guard it. Maintain it. Let it serve as a bridge to a better life for your youth, farmers, traders, and students.”

He commended the contractors for their professionalism and high-quality delivery, describing them as vital partners in Nigeria’s development agenda. The President also assured citizens that rural development would remain a key pillar of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“We will ensure development is not lopsided. It will be inclusive, balanced, and focused on lifting lives. Every Nigerian must feel the touch of meaningful governance,” Tinubu concluded.

Earlier in his remarks, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike, described Tinubu as a “true champion of rural development,” revealing that more than 150 kilometers of roads have been constructed and commissioned in the FCT’s satellite towns since May 2023.

“Today, of all the projects commissioned, I consider this one very important,” Wike said. “I told Mr. President that visiting just one rural road would show how deeply the people appreciate his efforts. And if you look around today, you’ll see the joy in their faces.”

Wike recalled how the need to connect the Pai-Gomani axis became critical after construction had already commenced beyond Pai, making this particular stretch a priority. He confirmed that the next phase of the project Gomani to Yangoji (13 km) is already in the pipeline.

The Minister listed six emergency rural roads that were approved and funded under the President’s 2023 supplementary budget and have all been completed: Paikon Kore–Ibwa Road (9 km) – Gwagwalada Area Council; Gaba–Tokulo Road with bridge – Bwari Area Council; Garage Junction–U.S. Secretariat Road (5 km) – Kuje Area Council; Yangoji–Sukuku–Ebo Road (11 km) – Kwali Area Council; Saburi 1 and 2 Access Road (5 km) – AMAC; and A2 Junction–Pai Town Road – Kwali Area Council

Wike also announced upcoming projects for the 2024 commissioning calendar, including:10 km Aguma Palace–Radio–New Market Road – Gwagwalada; 18 km Nyanya–Karshi Dual Carriageway; 7.4 km Old Ushafa Road and rehabilitation of Lower Usuma Dam; and 16.4 km Dualisation of Ushafa War College–Kaduna Checkpoint Road

“We’ve opened up communities that were once inaccessible. These roads don’t just connect places — they improve security, open economic opportunities, and pave the way for real farmers, not speculators, to thrive,” Wike said.

He thanked President Tinubu for the unwavering support that has made such progress possible.

“You gave us the appointment, but more importantly, you gave us the backing. Without that, none of this would be possible,” he said.
“When the people are happy, you are happy. And today, I’m certain you will leave here very, very happy even when you get back to the Villa.”

The ceremony was attended by government officials, traditional rulers, and hundreds of jubilant residents, marking another milestone in the ongoing rural renewal drive under the Tinubu administration.

FG Backs $400m Investment, 10,000 Jobs in View

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

***Nigeria to Host Africa’s Largest Rare Earth Plant

The Federal Government has endorsed a $400 million foreign direct investment (FDI) by Hasetins Commodities Limited to establish Africa’s largest rare earth and critical minerals processing plant in Nasarawa State — a transformative project expected to generate over 10,000 jobs nationwide.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, who received the management team of Hasetins Commodities in Abuja, described the initiative as a bold response to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s value-addition policy aimed at reviving Nigeria’s mining sector through local processing and beneficiation.

“With your collaboration, we are witnessing the birth of Africa’s biggest rare earth metals plant right here in Nigeria,” Alake said. “This project is a testament that our reforms are working, attracting the right investments, and creating opportunities for Nigerians.”

Hasetins Commodities, a firm specializing in critical metals for advanced technology and defence industries, plans to triple its existing 6,000 metric tonnes processing capacity by adding another 12,000 metric tonnes through the new facility. The company is also setting up regional mineral separation plants across the country to support artisanal miners and foster community development.

Alake commended the company for aligning its business model with the federal government’s drive for in-country mineral processing and industrialization. He noted that the project will not only boost job creation and skills development, but also stimulate investor confidence and economic diversification.

On behalf of President Tinubu and the Nigerian people, the Minister pledged full institutional support for the project, which he described as a game-changer in the nation’s solid minerals value chain.

In his remarks, Prince Jidayi, Managing Director/CEO of Hasetins Commodities Limited, credited the Minister’s leadership and sector-wide reforms for creating a more transparent and investor-friendly environment.

“The introduction of mining marshals to tackle illegal mining, and the simplification of licensing processes, gave us the confidence to commit to this major investment,” Prince Jidayi said. “Beyond this plant, we are investing in early-stage beneficiation to empower local miners, including training, safety equipment, and direct community engagement.”

Echoing this, the company’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Peter Butt, said Hasetins’ decision was further driven by the Ministry’s emphasis on value addition, structure, and long-term sustainability in the mining ecosystem.

“This is more than a business investment — it’s a shared vision for national development,” Butt said.

Hasetins Commodities’ rare earth plant will focus on metals essential for high-tech sectors, including green energy, aerospace, and electronics. With construction plans underway, the facility is expected to place Nigeria at the forefront of Africa’s critical minerals economy and reduce dependence on raw mineral exports.

The initiative represents a significant step in Nigeria’s plan to transform solid minerals into a pillar of industrial growth, innovation, and inclusive development.

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