Home Blog Page 77

Don’t Sack EFCC Boss, Go to Court Instead, Adebayo Tells Osun Govt

By
Toyin Adebayo
-

 

ABUJA – Presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has opposed calls for the removal of the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Olanipekun Olukoyede, insisting that the anti-graft agency must be allowed to operate independently.

Reacting to reports surrounding the freezing of the Osun State Government’s bank accounts, Adebayo said any aggrieved party should seek redress in court instead of demanding the removal of the EFCC chairman.

According to him, the commission is a statutory institution established to fight corruption and should not be subjected to political pressure.

“If the freezing of the Osun State Government’s accounts was done wrongly, the proper thing is to challenge it in court. That is what the rule of law demands,” he said.

The SDP standard-bearer stressed that the EFCC operates within the law and under judicial supervision, adding that anyone dissatisfied with its actions has the constitutional right to seek legal remedy.

He maintained that democratic institutions must be respected and allowed to perform their constitutional duties without interference.

Adebayo said the SDP has always embraced due process whenever it disagreed with actions taken by law enforcement agencies, choosing the courts over political agitation.

He assured Nigerians that an SDP-led administration would strengthen the independence of anti-corruption agencies while ensuring they remain accountable to the law.

On the recent meeting between President Bola Tinubu and Catholic bishops, Adebayo described the engagement as a positive step, saying regular dialogue between government and religious leaders would promote peace, unity and national development.

He also described Northern Nigeria as a major asset to the country, noting that the region’s vast human and natural resources could drive economic growth if properly harnessed.

According to him, Nigeria’s biggest challenge is not regional differences but poor leadership and weak governance.

Speaking on talks about presenting a single opposition presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections, Adebayo said Nigerians should focus on electing competent leaders capable of solving the country’s problems rather than political calculations.

He urged leaders and citizens alike to work together to strengthen democratic institutions, uphold the rule of law and promote good governance for the benefit of all Nigerians.

Nigeria Congratulates Jamaica on Independence Anniversary

By
Akeem Adebayo
-

The Federal Government has congratulated the Government and people of Jamaica on the occasion of their Independence Anniversary, reaffirming strong bilateral ties between both countries.

The message was conveyed in a statement issued by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.

Nigeria said it joins the international community in celebrating Jamaica’s achievements in democratic governance, socio-economic development and cultural influence on the global stage.

“Nigeria extends warm congratulations to the Government and people of the Republic of Jamaica on the joyous occasion of their Independence Anniversary,” the statement said.

The government highlighted the deep historical and cultural connections between both nations, noting that Nigeria and Jamaica share strong people-to-people ties rooted in a common African heritage.

It added that bilateral relations have continued to grow over the years through cooperation in key sectors, including diplomacy, trade, education, culture, tourism and sports.

Nigeria also pointed to ongoing collaboration within multilateral platforms such as the Commonwealth and the United Nations as evidence of the enduring partnership between the two countries.

The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening relations with Jamaica, particularly in areas of mutual interest such as investment, the creative economy, agriculture, education, technology, climate resilience and youth development.

The statement further noted Nigeria’s intention to deepen South-South cooperation as both countries pursue shared goals of sustainable development and economic prosperity.

“As the people of Jamaica celebrate this significant national occasion, Nigeria wishes the Government and people of Jamaica continued peace, unity, progress and prosperity,” the statement added.

Vinicius Jr Signs New Six-Year Deal with Real Madrid

By
Gladys Phillip
-

Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr has signed a new six-year contract with the Spanish giants after months of negotiations, securing his long-term future at the club.

Talks between the club and the Brazil international had stalled in recent months but were revived after Real Madrid presented an improved offer on Wednesday, which the player accepted.

Vinicius, who joined Real Madrid from Brazilian side Flamengo in 2018, had previously extended his contract three years ago but has now committed his future to the club he has described as his “dreams”.

The 25-year-old forward returned to Madrid earlier this week for pre-season training and medical assessments following his participation with Brazil at the World Cup.

Since arriving at the Santiago Bernabéu, Vinicius has scored 128 goals in 375 appearances across all competitions, establishing himself as a key figure in the club’s attacking line.

At international level, he has recorded 13 goals in 54 appearances for Brazil.

During his time at Real Madrid, Vinicius has won two UEFA Champions League titles, three La Liga titles and one Copa del Rey, underlining his role in one of Europe’s most successful squads.

The contract extension is expected to end speculation over his future, with Premier League side Arsenal reportedly monitoring his situation and ready to step up interest if negotiations had broken down.

Real Madrid’s announcement comes amid a busy transfer window, with the club confirming the signing of Ivory Coast winger Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig in a deal worth up to £120 million.

Diomande becomes Real Madrid’s sixth signing of the summer under new head coach Jose Mourinho, joining Bernardo Silva, Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries, Marc Cucurella and Carlos Espi.

The Spanish club is also said to be pursuing Manchester City midfielder Rodri, although they face competition from rivals Barcelona.

Vinicius’ renewal is seen as a major boost for Real Madrid as they continue to reshape their squad ahead of the new season.

Nigeria’s Youth Crucial to Digital Future, Says Minister, as Huawei Trains 100,000

By
Akeem Adebayo
-

Nigeria’s youthful population is central to the country’s digital transformation and long-term economic growth, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, has said.

Enikanolaiye made the remarks on Wednesday in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the management of Huawei Technologies Nigeria, as the company disclosed it has trained over 100,000 Nigerians in digital skills since 2018.

The development was contained in a statement issued by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“Nigeria’s young and vibrant population is the driving force behind innovation, entrepreneurship and national development,” the minister said.

He explained that the Federal Government is prioritising policies that harness the country’s demographic advantage to drive innovation, strengthen digital capacity and support national development.

During the engagement, Huawei’s delegation, led by Dr. Jim Zhang, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to Nigeria’s digital growth, particularly through talent development and infrastructure support.

Zhang said Huawei plans to train 120,000 Nigerians under its LEAP talent development programme by 2027, building on the more than 100,000 already trained.

“Huawei is fully committed to supporting Nigeria in building a digital-enabled economy through infrastructure, innovation and talent development,” he said.

Huawei, which has operated in Nigeria since 1999, continues to expand its presence across key areas including telecommunications, cloud computing and digital infrastructure.

The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration between Nigeria and Huawei in advancing digital skills, innovation and technology-driven growth.

The Ministry reiterated its commitment to partnerships that will enhance Nigeria’s digital capacity and position the country for a competitive role in the global digital economy.

Nigeria Promotes Structured Migration, Partners with Yakubu Gowon University

By
Akeem Adebayo
-

Nigeria is intensifying efforts to promote structured migration and evidence-based foreign policy, with the Federal Government moving to partner Yakubu Gowon University on research, training and diplomatic support.

The development was disclosed in a statement by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, following a high-level meeting between the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, and the university’s management in Abuja.

At the centre of the engagement is Nigeria’s push to manage migration in a way that protects citizens while maximizing economic and diplomatic benefits.

“The Ministry supports managed migration that protects the interests of Nigerians while maximizing benefits for both countries of origin and destination,” Enikanolaiye said.

He explained that ongoing engagements with partner countries are focused on structured migration arrangements, a move seen as critical amid rising global mobility and labour shifts.

Beyond migration, the minister emphasized the role of academic institutions in strengthening Nigeria’s foreign policy through data-driven research and strategic policy inputs.

“Foreign policy must be centered on the Nigerian people and must deliver tangible outcomes in prosperity, job creation, security, and overall well-being,” he said.

The proposed partnership will see Yakubu Gowon University contribute policy research, training programmes and institutional support to the Ministry, particularly through its Centre for Migration and Security Studies and Directorate of Foreign Studies and Languages.

The collaboration will also extend to regional integration efforts, with plans to establish ECOWAS Clubs in tertiary institutions to deepen awareness of West African cooperation frameworks among young Nigerians.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Hakeem Fawehinmi said the university is prepared to support the initiative through academic exchanges, postgraduate training and engagement with the diplomatic community.

He added that the institution’s size and strategic location in Abuja position it as a natural partner for national policy development.

Both parties agreed to establish a joint working team to implement the areas of cooperation, including facilitating regular interaction between students and members of the diplomatic corps.

Analysts say the move signals a broader shift toward integrating academia into Nigeria’s foreign policy architecture, particularly in areas such as migration, regional diplomacy and global competitiveness.

Wike’s Aide to Bode George: Stop Embarrassing Yourself, Answer Rivers Funds Allegation

By
Toyin Adebayo
-

ABUJA — The Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, Mr. Lere Olayinka, has launched a fresh attack on Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, chieftain, Chief Bode George, urging him to stop what he described as conduct unbecoming of an elder statesman and respond to allegations concerning the source of funds used to acquire his Abuja property.

Olayinka, in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, said the former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP should “take a rest” and desist from making public comments that, according to him, diminish his standing.

According to Olayinka, George, who served as Military Governor of the old Ondo State in 1988, ought to exhibit the maturity expected of someone of his age and political experience.

“For someone who was Military Governor 38 years ago, some level of decorum and maturity is expected. It is becoming embarrassing that a man who should be acting like an elder statesman is moving from one television station to another attacking people who are young enough to be his children,” he said.

The FCT Minister’s aide also questioned George’s political relevance in Lagos State, arguing that the PDP had failed to make electoral progress under his leadership.

He claimed that the opposition party had not won George’s polling unit since 1999, despite producing governors in other South-West states, including Oyo, Osun, Ogun, Ondo and Ekiti.

Rather than criticising others, Olayinka challenged the PDP stalwart to explain why the party had remained on the political margins in Lagos State for over two decades.

He further accused George of failing to fulfil repeated public promises to leave Nigeria if President Bola Tinubu became President.

Olayinka recalled that between 2015 and 2022, George made several public declarations that he would relocate abroad or renounce his Nigerian citizenship should Tinubu assume office, but had remained in the country more than three years into the administration.

“An elder who wants to be respected should honour his own words. He repeatedly promised to leave Nigeria if Tinubu became President, but he has failed to do so,” he said.

The spokesman also reaffirmed Wike’s allegation that funds from Rivers State were used to acquire an Abuja property linked to George.

According to him, George’s explanation that the property was purchased from a private owner through an agent did not address the central issue raised by the FCT Minister.

“Wike never said the issue was who sold the property or through whom it was purchased. The issue is the source of the money used to acquire it. Chief Bode George should answer that question,” Olayinka stated.

He insisted that Wike stood by his earlier position that George lacked the moral authority to lecture others on corruption until he addressed the allegations levelled against him.

The latest exchange marks another chapter in the prolonged public feud between the FCT Minister and the PDP elder, underscoring continuing tensions within the opposition party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

2027: Good Leadership Can Fix Nigeria in Three Years — Adebayo

By
Toyin Adebayo
-

 

Kaduna – Presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has declared that Nigeria’s insecurity, corruption and economic challenges can be tackled within three years if competent and honest leaders are elected to power.

Speaking at the Arewa Awareness Summit on Unity Against Insecurity in Kaduna, Adebayo said the country’s problems have lingered because of poor leadership, insisting that the solutions are already known.

“There is no problem we have in Nigeria that good governance and leadership cannot resolve in three years,” he said. “The problems are obvious to everyone. What we need now are leaders who are ready to provide solutions.”

The SDP standard-bearer described Northern Nigeria as the engine room of the nation’s future, saying the region’s huge population and vast natural resources should be harnessed to drive economic prosperity rather than viewed as a burden.

“The North is the future of Nigeria, the future of the Sahel and West Africa. Our population is an asset if we have the right leadership to manage it,” he stated.

Adebayo urged Nigerians not to see themselves as powerless, reminding them that democracy gives citizens the authority to choose leaders capable of addressing their concerns.

“We are not as powerless as we think. Nobody becomes President, governor or local government chairman without the votes of the people. We must elect leaders who understand our problems and are ready to solve them,” he said.

He maintained that the quality of leadership at all levels of government would determine Nigeria’s future, stressing that citizens must demand accountability from those they elect.

The former presidential candidate also identified corruption as one of the greatest obstacles to national development, warning that no reform would succeed if public officials continue to abuse public trust.

“It does not matter how well you design the system. If you don’t deal with corruption, development will continue to suffer,” he warned.

On education, Adebayo called for greater investment to reduce the number of out-of-school children, particularly in Northern Nigeria, saying education remains the surest path to ending poverty, unemployment and insecurity.

He also advocated increased investment in agriculture and other productive sectors to create jobs, improve food production and stimulate economic growth.

Adebayo urged Nigerians to move beyond lamenting the country’s challenges and begin to demand practical solutions from political leaders.

“We should stop believing that our problems cannot be solved. With the right leadership, accountability and commitment, Nigeria can become peaceful, prosperous and united,” he added.

The summit brought together traditional rulers, academics, political leaders and stakeholders from across Northern Nigeria to discuss practical solutions to insecurity and national development.

Nigeria Targets $30bn–$50bn from 22 Offshore Oil Projects — NUPRC

By
Akeem Adebayo
-

Nigeria is projecting between $30 billion and $50 billion in investments from 22 major offshore oil and gas projects expected between 2026 and 2030, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has said.

The projection was contained in a statement issued by Eniola Akinkuotu, Head, Media and Corporate Communications, NUPRC, following remarks by the Commission Chief Executive, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, at the Society of Petroleum Engineers’ Nigeria Annual International Conference and Exhibition (NAICE 2026) in Lagos.

“Twenty-two (22) major offshore projects are expected between 2026 and 2030 with an estimated investment potential of $30–50 billion,” Eyesan said in a keynote address delivered on her behalf by the Executive Commissioner, Development and Production, Engr. Enorense Amadasu.

She added that the expected investments would boost production, create jobs and strengthen Nigeria’s energy security.

“Beyond increasing production, these investments will create jobs, expand infrastructure, strengthen energy security and reinforce Nigeria’s position as a leading global upstream investment destination,” she said.

Eyesan revealed that since 2024, the commission has approved over $57 billion in Field Development Plans (FDPs), some of which have progressed to Final Investment Decisions (FIDs), indicating renewed investor confidence.

She noted that successive licensing rounds have continued to unlock access to Nigeria’s most prospective oil and gas acreages. In the 2025 Licensing Round, 31 companies emerged successful bidders for 37 blocks following what she described as a “robust, data-driven and technology-enabled evaluation process.”

“With preparations already underway for the 2026 Licensing Round, Nigeria is demonstrating that investment certainty is no longer an aspiration; it is becoming an enduring feature of our regulatory framework,” she stated.

Eyesan acknowledged infrastructure deficits across Africa but said Nigeria is addressing the challenge by expanding gas gathering systems, pipelines, processing facilities and export infrastructure, while promoting shared and open-access systems to reduce costs and accelerate delivery.

She added that improved collaboration among government, operators, host communities and security agencies, supported by the Host Community Development Trust, has strengthened the protection of critical oil and gas assets.

The NUPRC said the combined reforms are positioning Nigeria’s upstream sector for sustained growth and global competitiveness.

₦400m Payment Allegation Trails Adeyemi in Reps Probe

By
Gladys Phillip
-

A ₦400 million payment allegation has surfaced against Adeniyi Adeyemi as the House of Representatives intensifies its probe into the controversial Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC).

The claim was made by businessman Gbenga Collins, Managing Director of Divine Dopacy Nigeria Limited, during a hearing on Tuesday before an ad hoc committee investigating the PFIPC, which was allocated ₦1.3 billion in the 2026 Appropriation Act despite being described by the Presidency as a fictitious agency.

Collins told lawmakers that Adeyemi presented himself as Director-General of the PFIPC and the Presidential Economic Advisory Council, and leveraged that position to demand a “facilitation fee” tied to a contract for the renovation and furnishing of a residence described as official.

“I had to pay ₦400 million for the facilitation of that project to show my strength that I would be able to handle the project,” Collins said. “He also said it would fast-track mobilisation.”

According to his testimony, the payments were made in five instalments between May and July 2025 into bank accounts linked to World Entrepreneurs Limited and Sunshine Confectionery and Catering Services.

Collins further alleged that Adeyemi operated from an office within the Federal Secretariat in Abuja, used vehicles with government number plates, and moved with security personnel—factors he said gave the impression of official authority.

He added that despite receiving contract documents, including an award letter and scope of work, the promised mobilisation funds never materialised.

The businessman told the panel that the failed deal caused severe financial strain, forcing him to raise funds from associates and dispose of personal assets.

The allegations form a central part of the ongoing investigation into the PFIPC, as lawmakers seek to determine how the entity—now widely described as non-existent—secured budgetary allocation, office space, and apparent government backing.

The House committee is continuing its inquiry to establish the facts surrounding the alleged payments, the legitimacy of the contract claims, and whether any laws were violated.

TCN, Police Arrest Suspect Over Vandalised Yola–Jalingo Power Towers

By
Akeem Adebayo
-

The Nigeria Police Force has arrested a suspect linked to the vandalism of six transmission towers along the Yola–Jalingo 330kV power line, the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has announced.

TCN disclosed that the affected towers—T995, T998, T999, T1002, T1003, and T1004—were discovered vandalised during a routine patrol by its engineers on July 29, 2026, with critical structural components removed.

According to the company, vandals stripped about 130 bracing members from the towers, posing a serious threat to their structural integrity and the stability of power supply in the region.

Following the discovery, TCN carried out a joint operation with the police on July 30 within the host community, engaging local leaders and demanding cooperation in identifying those responsible.

The breakthrough came on August 1, when the police confirmed the arrest of a principal suspect and the recovery of part of the stolen materials.

“The Police have obtained solid leads from the suspect in custody and remain committed to tracking down the remaining members of the syndicate,” TCN said.

Officials of the company subsequently visited the site to verify the recovered items and called for the full prosecution of those involved.

TCN condemned the repeated attacks on power infrastructure, warning that such acts undermine national investments in the electricity sector.

“We strongly condemn the continued vandalism of power transmission infrastructure as it undermines years of investment in the sector,” the statement read.

The company urged host communities and the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around transmission installations to security agencies or the nearest TCN office.

The incident highlights ongoing challenges facing Nigeria’s power infrastructure, particularly vandalism, which continues to disrupt electricity supply and grid stability.

1...767778...724Page 77 of 724

Niger Detainees’ Deaths: Alake Sends Probe Team to Minna

Toyin Adebayo -
ABUJA — Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has ordered the deployment of a high-powered ministerial team to Niger State to investigate the...

ICPC Grills Ekiti APC Reps Candidate Over Contract, False Declaration Allegations

33 Miners’ Deaths: Survivor Alleges Suffocation, Says ‘We Begged for Fresh...

Ikpeazu, Spanish Minister Seek Stronger Farm Technology, Investment Ties

Editor Picks

Must Read

Hot Topics

About Us

Newsfocus delivers accurate, timely, and fact-based news on Nigeria, covering politics, economy, security, and governance with clarity and credibility.

Contact us: contact@newsfocusng.com

Follow Us

© Copyright - NewsFocus Media