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MDGIF Partners Chinese Firm for 500 CNG Stations Nationwide in Three Years

Toyin Adebayo
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MDGIF Partners Chinese Firm for 500 CNG Stations Nationwide in Three Years

The Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF) has finalized talks with China’s Endurance Group to deploy 500 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) refuelling stations across Nigeria over the next three years, marking a significant boost to the nation’s clean energy transition.

In a briefing following the Abuja meeting, MDGIF Executive Director Oluwole Adama outlined the formation of a government-backed Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV)—the Compressed Natural Gas Auto Mobility Infrastructure Company (CAM InfraCo)—involving MDGIF, the Bank of Industry (BOI), Endurance Group, and Séquor Investment Partners.

“This partnership reflects our shared resolve to bridge infrastructure deficits in Nigeria’s CNG ecosystem,” Adama said. “Through CAM InfraCo, we’ll roll out 500 fully integrated CNG stations, develop liquefied CNG (LCNG) supply networks, and supply CNG/LNG transport trucks equipped with cascades, creating a virtual pipeline to reach every state.”

Adama emphasized that the expansion will alleviate persistent queues at current CNG outlets by enhancing refuelling access and streamlining supply chains via advanced logistics.

Oluwatoyin Subair, Senior Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Special Duties and Domestic Affairs, hailed the project as a cornerstone of the administration’s energy security agenda. “It advances the President’s blueprint for greater CNG adoption in transport, curbing reliance on premium motor spirit (PMS) and automotive gas oil (AGO),” Subair noted. The initiative also aligns with economic reforms to deliver affordable, eco-friendly energy while generating jobs in the gas sector.

Endurance Group’s CEO, Eric Lin, detailed the SPV’s blueprint: a comprehensive network for CNG refuelling, maintenance, and logistics, centered on leasing equipment to vetted operators and guaranteeing steady gas delivery via a cutting-edge virtual pipeline. “Our approach prioritizes underserved northern regions and booming southern markets, building on existing and upcoming hubs for broad, sustainable coverage,” Lin explained.

The leasing model aims to foster a financially robust CNG infrastructure, promoting nationwide market penetration and resilience against supply disruptions. This collaboration positions Nigeria to accelerate its shift toward greener fuels, potentially transforming transportation affordability and environmental sustainability.

Oluyole LG Chairman Felicitates Arapaja on PDP National Secretary Role

Ola Akinola
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Oluyole LG Chairman Felicitates Arapaja on PDP National Secretary Role

Engr. Akeem Olatunji, Executive Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, has extended warm congratulations to Ambassador Taofeeq Arapaja on his election as National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In a press statement released to journalists in Ibadan on Sunday, Olatunji praised Arapaja’s extensive political trajectory, describing it as rich with the expertise the party desperately requires for reconstruction. He noted that Arapaja has long been admired across generational lines in political circles.

Labeling the appointment “a round peg in a round hole,” Olatunji highlighted Arapaja’s hallmark qualities: steady guidance, composed leadership, and a proven ability to fortify any institution he joins.

The election took place on Saturday during the PDP National Convention in Ibadan, which assembled the party’s prominent figures from nationwide. Arapaja, who previously held the position of National Deputy Chairman (South), now advances to a key spot on the National Working Committee (NWC).

“His distinguished public service remains integral to his legacy,” Olatunji remarked. “As a former Deputy Governor of Oyo State and ex-Nigerian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Jordan, he is widely regarded as one of the PDP’s key institutional anchors.”

The chairman emphasized that Arapaja’s elevation underscores the party’s reliance on seasoned leaders. He added that residents of Oyo State, particularly in Oluyole, feel immense pride in one of their own assuming such a pivotal national role.

Olatunji expressed strong confidence in Arapaja’s ability to leverage his deep experience and grasp of national dynamics to revitalize the PDP, ensuring it is strategically poised for electoral success in upcoming cycles.

Judge Rejects Recusal Bid in N300m Gold Jewelry Theft Trial

Ola Akinola
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Judge Rejects Recusal Bid in N300m Gold Jewelry Theft Trial

Justice Chioma Nwosu-Iheme of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Wuse has declined to step down from presiding over a high-profile case involving the alleged conspiracy and theft of gold jewelry worth N300 million, ruling that the defendants failed to substantiate claims of judicial bias.

In her ruling, Justice Nwosu-Iheme dismissed the recusal application, affirming her impartiality and directing that the trial proceed without delay. The defendants—Rukhayat Abbeyson, Lauretu Ahmed, and Sagir Ahmed—had sought her withdrawal, but the judge held that no credible evidence of prejudice was presented.

The case stems from an incident on March 23, 2024, when the trio allegedly conspired to steal the jewelry from the residence of complainant Hajia Halima Suleiman at No. 26A Etang Obuli Crescent, Jabi, Abuja. The charge, filed by the Commissioner of Police, accuses Abbeyson, Suleiman’s former personal assistant, of masterminding the theft. As the only individual besides Suleiman with access to the safe’s combination, Abbeyson is alleged to have exploited her position to facilitate the crime.

During the latest court session, C.G. Okafor, standing in for lead prosecutor Adama Musa, informed the court that the prosecution was ready to present its first witness but sought an adjournment due to counsel’s sudden illness. The request, unopposed by the defense, was granted, with Okafor emphasizing the need for all proceedings to be accurately recorded.

The defense team, led by Ishaka Dikko (SAN), maintains the defendants’ innocence, describing the accusations as fabricated. In their statements to investigators, the accused have denied involvement, insisting they are victims of a wrongful setup.

Prosecution evidence, already front-loaded, includes witness and defendant statements, a compact disc with voice notes and call recordings, bank statements, purchase receipts, photographs of the stolen items and the safe, and printed chat message excerpts—painting a detailed picture of the alleged plot.

Justice Nwosu-Iheme has scheduled the matter for a definitive hearing on January 19 and 20, 2026, urging all parties to arrive fully prepared to avoid further postponements. The ruling underscores the court’s commitment to expeditious justice in a case that has drawn attention for its financial stakes and implications for trust in domestic employment.

How Turaki Was Elected PDP National Chairman, Arapaja as Secretary at Ibadan Convention

Toyin Adebayo
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How Turaki Was Elected PDP National Chairman, Arapaja as Secretary at Ibadan Convention

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has elected Dr. Kabiru Tanimu Turaki (SAN) as its new National Chairman and Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja as National Secretary during its elective national convention at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.

The event, attended by 2,725 delegates from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, is being hailed as a pivotal step toward party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The convention began on November 15 and continued into the early hours of November 16, proceeding smoothly with high levels of organization and enthusiasm among party members.

Senator Ben Obi, who oversaw the electoral process, guided delegates through a transparent and credible voting procedure, bolstering the PDP’s commitment to internal democracy.

Dr. Turaki’s election was nearly unanimous after his main rival, Senator Yakubu Lado, withdrew from the contest, solidifying Turaki’s position as the consensus candidate for the party’s highest office.

Supporters celebrated the result as a vital chance for the PDP to regroup, restructure, and mount a strong challenge against the ruling party in 2027.

Prior to the elections, the convention expelled several prominent members for anti-party activities, including FCT Minister and former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike; former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose; and former National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu.

Also expelled were former National Legal Adviser Kamaldeen Adeyemi Ajibade (SAN); Senator Mao Ohuabunwa; George Turner; and Hon. Umar Bature.

Chief Olabode George, former PDP Deputy Chairman (South), moved the expulsion motion, stating that the individuals had engaged in actions intended to undermine the party.

Senator Ben Obi, Secretary of the National Convention Organising Committee, proposed and secured approval for the event to proceed as an elective convention, with the motion seconded by Emmanuel Enoidem (SAN).

Governor Seyi Makinde moved for the ratification of state executive committees formed through compliant congresses monitored by INEC and security agencies, excluding Imo, Abia, Enugu, and Rivers states. The motion was seconded by Daniel Obiechina Okechukwu.

The convention further approved the dissolution of the existing National Working Committee (NWC) and amendments to portions of the party’s constitution.

FG Approves NIDCOM Initiative to Link Diaspora Businesses with Nigeria’s Top Talent

Toyin Adebayo
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FG Approves NIDCOM Initiative to Link Diaspora Businesses with Nigeria’s Top Talent

New Program Targets Remote Jobs for Youth, Boosting Skills and Economic Ties

The Federal Government has endorsed a groundbreaking partnership led by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) to link thousands of young Nigerian professionals with remote job opportunities in diaspora-owned enterprises across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

In a statement from Remy Chukwunyere, Director of the InnoPower Africa Foundation, the program is positioned as a strategic response to Nigeria’s rising youth unemployment, providing graduates and early-career individuals with essential exposure and skills to excel in the international digital economy.

The collaborative effort establishes a comprehensive talent pipeline, incorporating key Nigerian institutions such as ITANA, the University of Lagos’ African Research Universities Alliance Centre of Excellence for Unemployment and Skills Development, and the National Talent Export Program.

Under this framework, promising talents will be scouted, upskilled, and placed in global firms through a protected digital business platform, emphasizing advanced training in technical proficiencies, professional etiquette, and remote-work protocols.

“Nigerian talent is world-class, innovative, and primed to deliver outstanding value on the global stage,” remarked Emil Ekiyor, Founder of InnoPower Africa and a key collaborator. “The gap has never been in ability, but in access, readiness, and pathways to opportunity. Partnering with NIDCOM and our ecosystem allies, we’re constructing the systems to render Nigerian professionals discoverable and indispensable in high-demand markets.”

Leveraging Nigeria’s status as Africa’s youth powerhouse—boasting the continent’s largest cohort of tech-savvy and driven individuals—the initiative channels this demographic toward diaspora-led ventures in need of virtual assistants, digital marketers, administrative experts, and similar remote roles, fostering mutual economic gains for the homeland and its expatriate networks.

A standout component is a compensated internship at the University of Lagos, tailored to immerse top-performing students in real-world projects with overseas partners, equipping them with cross-border business acumen and paving a direct route to permanent remote positions post-graduation.

Central to the recruitment process is Fast Track Virtual (www.fasttrackvirtual.com), InnoPower’s dedicated placement hub, which delivers rigorous screening, targeted skill enhancement, cultural orientation, and ongoing performance monitoring for aspiring global workers.

Additionally, diaspora enterprises registered in NIDCOM’s database stand to benefit from a substantial first-year discount on services when committing to a 12-month engagement with a Nigerian hire.

“NIDCOM takes immense pride in spearheading this endeavor, which aligns seamlessly with our foundational mission: harnessing the Nigerian diaspora as vital allies in addressing domestic hurdles,” stated Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, NIDCOM’s CEO. “Our compatriots overseas serve as employers, guides, and advocates, uniquely positioned to forge pathways for their kin back home.”

SDP Commends Prince Adewole Adebayo on Honorary Doctorate

Toyin Adebayo
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SDP Commends Prince Adewole Adebayo on Honorary Doctorate

Award Recognized as Testament to His Vision for National Progress

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has extended heartfelt congratulations to its 2023 presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, following the conferment of an honorary Doctor of Political Science (D.Pol) degree by Western Delta University in Oghara, Delta State.

In a statement issued by Acting National Chairman Dr. Sadiq Umar Abubakar Gombe, the SDP described the accolade as thoroughly merited and a source of inspiration, underscoring Adebayo’s profound contributions to Nigeria’s advancement.

The party highlighted that the honor acknowledges his multifaceted roles as an international lawyer, influential political leader, public intellectual, media entrepreneur, businessman, philanthropist, and dedicated champion of human capital development.

The SDP further praised Adebayo for his generous donation of a new postgraduate facility to the university—the Macualay and Margaret Omugbe Postgraduate Block—named in tribute to his father and mother-in-law.

Expressing gratitude for Adebayo’s steadfast backing of the party’s national and sub-national frameworks, the SDP reiterated its faith in his blueprint for a revitalized Nigeria, anchored in robust institutions, economic renewal, peace, security, and sustainable growth.

The statement also applauded his relentless efforts to combat poverty and advance the greatest good for the greatest number of citizens, endeavors that continue to garner acclaim both domestically and internationally.

Concluding on an optimistic note, the SDP extended warm felicitations to Prince Adewole Adebayo on this milestone and voiced anticipation for further accomplishments in his ongoing service to the nation.

PDP Expels Wike, Fayose, Anyanwu and Others in Major Pre-2027 Purge

Ola Akinola
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PDP Expels Wike, Fayose, Anyanwu and Others in Major Pre-2027 Purge

IBADAN, OYO STATE – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday expelled high-profile members including Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, former Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose, suspended National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), Hon. Austin Nwachukwu, and several others over alleged anti-party activities.

The sweeping decision, ratified by an overwhelming majority of delegates at the party’s 2025 National Convention in Ibadan, aims to restore unity, discipline, and focus ahead of the 2027 general elections. PDP leadership described the expulsions as a “landmark move” to eradicate internal divisions that have hampered the party’s progress.

Wike, a vocal critic of PDP leadership since defecting to support President Bola Tinubu in 2023, and Fayose, a longtime party stalwart turned vocal dissenter, were among the most prominent targets. Anyanwu’s removal follows his earlier suspension, while the others were accused of undermining party directives and aligning with opposing interests.

Party insiders say the action signals a broader crackdown on factions linked to the “G5 governors” and other anti-Atiku elements, potentially reshaping PDP’s internal dynamics. No immediate reactions were available from the expelled members as of press time.

The convention, attended by thousands of delegates, also endorsed reforms to strengthen electoral readiness and counter perceived sabotage. PDP National Chairman Umar Iliya Damagum hailed the move as essential for reclaiming the party’s position as Nigeria’s main opposition force.

Political analysts warn the expulsions could deepen rifts or galvanize loyalists, with implications for PDP’s performance in key states like Rivers and Ekiti.

Benue APC Zone C Crisis: Stakeholders Blame Chair, Och’Doma for 2027 Loss Risk

Toyin Adebayo
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Benue APC Zone C Crisis: Stakeholders Blame Chair, Och’Doma for 2027 Loss Risk

A coalition of All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders in Benue South (Zone C) has delivered a blistering ultimatum to Governor Hyacinth Alia, warning that the state party chairman, Dr. Benjamin Omale, and the Och’Doma of Idoma Land, His Royal Highness John Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji, bear responsibility if the APC suffers defeats in the 2027 elections due to their alleged meddling in party affairs.

In a strongly worded statement signed by Dr. Mathew Achigili (Chairman), Hon. Simon Adanu (Secretary), and Hon. Mrs. Grace Inalegwu (Woman Leader), the group accused the duo of sowing discord by imposing party officials and manipulating appointments across the zone, leading to widespread disarray.

“The exclusive right to appoint point men in any local government belongs to the governor; however, in Apa-Agatu, we firmly believe the governor was misinformed by the state party chairman, who acts as the errand boy of the Och’Doma,” the statement asserted. “As it stands, the APC in Apa-Agatu, Ohimini, Otukpo, and Ogbadibo is in complete disarray. Without urgent action, the party risks total anarchy.”

The coalition singled out Apa-Agatu as a flashpoint, alleging the leaders are scheming to favor recently decamped lawmaker Hon. Ojotu Ojema. While vowing to stay within the APC, the group issued a stark threat: “We vow not to leave the party but remain to sabotage it from inside.”

Six Key Demands
The stakeholders laid out a series of demands to avert further fallout, including:
– Mandatory consultation with Zone C stakeholders before any appointments or political decisions.
– An immediate halt to the intimidation of local government chairmen who voice dissent.
– A call for the Och’Doma to uphold political neutrality, akin to his counterpart, the Tor Tiv.
– A ban on imposing ward and local government executives ahead of upcoming APC congresses.
– Safeguarding existing zoning arrangements, particularly for the Apa-Agatu and Otukpo-Ohimini federal constituencies.
– Protection against the alleged handover of party structures to the Och’Doma, which they claim has pushed some members toward the Action Democratic Congress (ADC).

The group further charged that Omale has effectively ceded control of Zone C structures to the traditional ruler, exacerbating internal fractures in the nine-local-government-area region—a perennial hotspot for rivalries among elected officials, monarchs, and party operatives.

Palace Rebuttal: Allegations ‘Politically Motivated’
In a rapid response, the Palace of the Och’Doma dismissed the claims as a baseless smear campaign against a revered traditional leader.

Palace Secretary Mr. Adegbe Uloko emphasized that His Royal Highness—a PhD-holding pastor renowned for his integrity—remains staunchly apolitical and has never sought to sway electoral outcomes in Benue State.

“The House of Representatives member referenced is the younger brother of the Och’Doma’s wife; his political choices are his own,” Uloko stated. “The Och’Doma avoids politics entirely. His track record is spotless, and he will not be derailed by those spreading rumors for political advantage.”

Broader Implications for APC’s 2027 Prospects
Political observers caution that the deepening rift—particularly the coalition’s pledge to undermine the party internally—poses a grave threat to APC’s hold on Benue South ahead of the 2027 polls. The zone’s volatility could ripple across the state if Governor Alia fails to broker reconciliation.

The coalition implored Alia and top APC brass to step in “to restore order, fairness, and stakeholder consultation” in Zone C without delay.

As of press time, neither the Governor’s Office nor the State APC Secretariat had responded to requests for comment.

Nigeria Signs Expanded UHC Compact, Extends Accountability to Private Sector and LGAs

Toyin Adebayo
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0
Nigeria Signs Expanded UHC Compact, Extends Accountability to Private Sector and LGAs

Nigeria took a landmark step toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC) on Friday as the Federal Government and stakeholders signed the expanded UHC Compact Addendum, for the first time binding private sector actors, local government authorities, traditional institutions, and other ministries to shared accountability obligations.

The historic signing capped the 2025 Health Sector–Wide Joint Annual Review (JAR), held from November 12–14 at Transcorp Event Centre, Maitama, Abuja. Nearly 1,000 participants—double last year’s turnout—gathered, representing federal and state governments, development partners, private sector, academia, civil society, traditional leaders, ALGON, and the media.

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, hailed the renewed commitments as “a decisive step to build a health system that delivers measurable results for every Nigerian, no matter who they are or where they live.”

Co-chaired by Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, the three-day Review endorsed the Compact expansion, new digital tools, and performance resolutions to accelerate the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative (NHSRII) and advance UHC.

The Addendum introduces a transparent “Ask-and-Offer” framework and responds to evolving global health financing trends by integrating non-state actors into Nigeria’s accountability architecture.

Key Progress Under NHSRII Spotlight Sessions:

  • Maternal mortality reduced by up to 17% in early-implementing LGAs under the MAMII initiative
  • Enhanced PHC functionality, emergency referrals, and health insurance enrollment
  • Growth in local pharmaceutical and diagnostics manufacturing
  • Strengthened surveillance, laboratory systems, and emergency operations
  • Data-driven governance reforms amid anticipated declines in external funding

Digital Innovations Showcased:

  • BHCPF digital platform
  • National e-learning system for health workers
  • PHC revitalization dashboards
  • SAVE MAMA (RESMAT)
  • NHIA digital claims platform

Stakeholders emphasized that digitalization is central to transparency and real-time monitoring.

In a groundbreaking move, the JAR hosted an open dialogue on corruption, reviewing BHCPF utilization and cross-agency audits. Participants confronted persistent challenges: ghost workers, irregular payments, double expenditures, and weak fiscal tracking.

Anti-Corruption Resolutions:

  • Biometric verification across all PHCs and insurance platforms by Q1 2026
  • Digital expenditure tracking in BHCPF facilities by Q3 2026

An expanded Inter-Agency Coordinating Committee (ICC) session tackled immunization performance, vaccine financing, and data quality, stressing the need for predictable counterpart funding and reliance on validated data sources.

The JAR Learning Exhibition featured over 45 abstracts and exhibits, while the People’s Pulse Town Hall amplified citizen voices on cost, service quality, health worker conduct, and facility responsiveness.

Newly Launched National Frameworks:

  • National CEmONC Facility Readiness Assessment Report
  • Climate and Health National Adaptation Plan
  • Second National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS-2)
  • N-CAS Strategy for harmonized campaigns
  • Mini-DHS Framework for annual outcome tracking
  • Data visibility tools: HSSB, NHFR, NHMIS Assessment, MSDAT

Prof. Pate concluded: “The Review highlighted strong gains but also clear gaps. With renewed accountability, digital rigor, and collective resolve, Nigeria is building a health system that truly delivers for everyone.”

Brigade Commander Leads Troops Out of Wajiroko Ambush in Borno

Ola Akinola
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0
Brigade Commander Leads Troops Out of Wajiroko Ambush in Borno

Damboa, Borno State – The Commander of 25 Task Force Brigade, Brigadier General M. Uba, personally led his patrol team to safety after insurgents ambushed them near Wajiroko in Azir Multe, Damboa Local Government Area, on Friday.

The joint patrol—comprising soldiers from 25 Task Force Brigade and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF)—had just completed a successful security sweep along the fringes of Sambisa Forest when it came under intense fire while returning to base.

Outgunned but undeterred, the troops responded with overwhelming firepower, forcing the attackers to flee in disarray and abandon their assault.

The fierce exchange claimed the lives of two soldiers and two CJTF members. The Nigerian Army High Command commended the patrol’s gallantry while extending condolences to the families of the fallen.

Military authorities have strongly refuted online reports falsely claiming the Brigade Commander was abducted, urging the public to dismiss such misinformation.

In a statement, Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu (Nigerian Army Medal) praised the troops’ “uncommon bravery, resilience, and sacrifice” in one of the nation’s most perilous conflict zones, reaffirming their critical role in safeguarding Nigeria.

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