₦airaland Forum

Some of the 497 Nigerians repatriated from Niger Republic on Friday have recounted the harsh experiences they endured while attempting to migrate illegally to Libya in search of better living conditions.

The returnees, who were received by the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, at the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano around 12:40 p.m., included 174 men, 97 women, 137 boys and 89 girls from states such as Kano, Jigawa, Borno and Kaduna.

One of the returnees, Sani Hamisu from Kano State, said he left Nigeria in search of economic opportunities after struggling financially at home.

According to him, he hoped to improve the welfare of his family and also raise enough money to get married.

“I wanted to support my family as the first son and also get married, so I decided to travel to Libya,” he said.

Hamisu described the journey through the desert as traumatic, saying many migrants lost their lives due to lack of food and water.

“In the desert, there was no water and no food, many died. Once your water finishes, nobody can help you even with a cup of water,” he added.

He disclosed that he spent six years in Libya doing menial jobs but eventually returned to Nigeria without achieving his goals.

“IOM rescued us in the desert and took us back to Niger Republic before we were brought to Nigeria,” he said.

Another returnee, Harira Muhammad, a mother of two from Borno State, said she travelled to Libya eight months ago in a bid to support her husband, who suffered a leg fracture after being hit by a vehicle during a Boko Haram attack.

“My husband was knocked down by a car during a Boko Haram attack and has had a leg fracture since then.

“I travelled to Libya in search of greener pastures, but we were attacked by bandits who collected our money,” she said.

Harira appealed to the government to assist returnees with business support and empowerment programmes to help them rebuild their lives.

Speaking on the exercise, the Head of Operations at NEMA’s Kano Office, Dr. Nura Abdullahi, explained that the repatriation was voluntary and not a forced deportation.

“It is a voluntary repatriation of Nigerians from Niger Republic. The returnees were brought back by the Federal Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” he said.

Abdullahi stated that the operation was coordinated through a collaboration involving the Nigerian Mission in Niger Republic, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the International Organisation for Migration, IOM.

According to him, the arrangement was aimed at ensuring the safe and dignified return of stranded Nigerians.

He added that NEMA and relevant agencies provided support services for the returnees immediately after arrival, while the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons supplied medication to the Nigerian Red Cross medical team for those with health challenges.

Abdullahi noted that most of the migrants embarked on the journey in search of better economic opportunities but later realised the route was unsafe.

The NEMA official also advised Nigerians against embarking on dangerous migration journeys in search of greener pastures abroad.

[b]“No country is better than their country of origin,” he said.

Troops of 12 Brigade, in collaboration with local vigilantes, have arrested two suspected terrorists during a fighting patrol in Ajaokuta Local Government Area of Kogi State.

This was made known in a post on X by Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency and security expert in the Lake Chad region.

Makama stated that the operation was conducted at about 9:00 a.m. on May 19 along the Eganyi–Atabatam–Epiri–Ebatoto–Idebe axis following sustained surveillance and patrol activities in the area.

According to him, the troops reportedly carried out a coordinated sweep of the general area as part of ongoing efforts to curb criminal activities and restore security along vulnerable routes.

He added that during the operation, two suspected terrorists were apprehended.

The security expert further revealed that items recovered from the suspects included one motorcycle, one machete, and one mobile phone, among other sundry items.

“The suspects and recovered items were subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation and necessary action.

“The patrol formed part of continued operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks operating within Kogi State and its surrounding axis,” he said.

jom28gy:
What else does APC know how to do

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has asked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigeria’s security chiefs to address insecurity immediately following the recent abduction of school pupils and teachers in Oyo State.

NLC President, Joe Ajaero, made the demand known in a statement on Wednesday.

Recall that at least 30 pupils and seven teachers were abducted by bandits from Community High School and L.A. Basic School, Ahoro Esinele, and First Baptist School (Nursery and Primary), Yawota, all in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Thereafter, one of the teachers was reportedly decapitated by the bandits.

The development has stirred reactions from Nigerians demanding immediate action to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers.

Reacting, the union said the Nigerian government at all levels must wake up.

“Our security agencies should do a thorough soul-searching. It is superfluous to say it is their sacred duty to protect lives and property. We believe where there is a will, there will be a way. Address this challenge before it is too late.

“We demand action now. We have had enough of sermons and condolence messages. For how long should we continue to bleed like this?” the labour union stated.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja, has stopped the proposed demolition of about 186 houses at Isokan Estate Extension, Alao-Akala, Elebu area of Ibadan in Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Checks by The PUNCH revealed that the private residence of the Olubadan in Ibadan North Local Government Area was besieged on Sunday, around 12:30 p.m. by truckloads of Isokan Extension landlords, who informed the monarch that the rooftops of their houses had been removed between Thursday and Friday ahead of a planned demolition following an Ibadan High Court judgment in favour of one Mogaji Olopade Taofeek Abiola, also known as Mogaji Oloyin.

In a bid to save the affected houses, many of which had already been marked for demolition, the Olubadan gave the landlords the opportunity to repair their damaged rooftops after a second meeting with relevant stakeholders held at his Bodija residence on Tuesday.

The monarch also warned land grabbers to stay away from the area, insisting that the disputed land was not available for illegal acquisition.

The PUNCH recalls that Ladoja, on Tuesday, October 15, 2025, inaugurated a five-member committee on land grabbing and other related offences.

The committee, tasked with addressing land-grabbing issues from a legal perspective, includes Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Niyi Akintola and Musibau Adetunmbi. Other members are Yinka Okunade, Rahman AbdulRaheem and Tunji Thomas.

Olubadan stated that both the Oyo State Government and the Olubadan-in-Council were united in their resolve to rid Ibadan of land grabbing.

“Land grabbing is like an interlocking web of complex connections involving diverse interests that need to be unravelled. I know each of you very well. While we entertain no illusion as to the gravity of your responsibility, I have no doubt in my mind that you have the capacity to carry out the responsibility,” the monarch said.

Also, on Wednesday, April 2, 2026, the paramount ruler received the report of the land-grabbing committee, which proposed legal backing to curb the activities of land grabbers in the city.

Ladoja said, “The proposed legal framework would entail the passage of bye-laws by local government councillors, in accordance with the Land Use Act, to provide for the creation of special tribunals that would give accelerated hearing to cases of land grabbing in Ibadan and specify sanctions.”

However, at Tuesday’s meeting, stakeholders agreed that fresh ground markings should be carried out by independent surveyors to determine the exact boundaries of the disputed land, with the exercise to be monitored by the state Ministry of Lands, Housing, Survey and Urban Development.

“By so doing, we would be able to know who is trespassing on whose land and determine the next line of action to take,” the Olubadan said.

He also commended the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Olugbemiga Abimbola, for ensuring prompt police intervention in the area and preventing the situation from escalating.

Confirming the development in a statement issued in Ibadan on Wednesday, the Olubadan’s media aide, Adeola Oloko, said the monarch’s residence was flooded by landlords from Isokan Extension seeking intervention.

“The Olubadan residence was besieged by truckloads of Isokan Extension landlords at about 12:30 p.m. on Sunday. They informed Kabiyesi that their house rooftops had been removed between Thursday and Friday ahead of demolition following an Ibadan High Court judgment in favour of Mogaji Olopade Taofeek Abiola, also known as Mogaji Oloyin,” the statement read.

Oloko added that Mogaji Oloyin had maintained that the 31 acres of land at Isokan Extension belonged to his family and that he possessed a valid court judgment and survey plan.

“He contended that he had made efforts to bring the reality of the matter to the attention of those concerned and invited the landlords for dialogue, but his efforts were rebuffed,” Oloko stated.

According to the spokesman of the Isokan community, Isiaq Olatunji, some fences had already been demolished in addition to the removed rooftops.

“Apart from the rooftops removed, some house fences have also been pulled down, leaving residents in fear. Unless Kabiyesi intervenes, we may be displaced unjustly,” Olatunji said.

Oloko further disclosed that neighbouring communities such as Alausa, Aromokun and Oluyedun, which were not covered by the court judgment, were also under threat, with fears that more than 400 houses could eventually be demolished.

Those present at the meeting included the Chairman of the Association of Ibadan Mogajis, Asimiyu Ariori; the Land Committee Secretary, Mogaji Odeku; Baale Apena; and personal aides to the Olubadan.

Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday arrested a former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman.
Mamman, who has remained in hiding even after being sentenced to 75 years in prison, was arrested in Rigasa, Kaduna State.

Ola Olukoyede, the chairman of the anti-graft agency, who disclosed this to journalists during a press briefing in Abuja, explained that he was arrested at about 3:30am.

Daily Trust reports that a Federal High Court in Abuja had last week sentenced Mamman to 75 years in prison in absentia, a few days after he was convicted.

Justice Omotosho convicted him of all 12-count charges, which bordered on money laundering and fraud amounting to N33.8 billion, connected to the diversion of funds from the Mambilla and Zungeru hydropower projects.


Olukoyede revealed that Mamman was nabbed alongside two others who were protecting him, adding that the house where he was arrested is currently being investigated.
“I’m happy to announce to Nigerians that at about 3:30 a.m. this morning, we arrested Mr Saleh Mamman.

“This is a test of the commitment of the Federal Government of Nigeria to the fight against corruption in Nigeria and to assure Nigerians that anyone who has dipped into government or national resources will not go unpunished.
“The eagle eye of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission will always catch up with you wherever you are hiding,” Olukoyede said.

After the briefing, Daily Trust’s further findings revealed that Mamman was nabbed after he was tracked to the location in Kaduna, where he was being protected.
A high-placed source confided in our correspondent that the former minister continued to change his phone and use different SIMs, a development that made the tracking difficult before he was finally arrested.
“The convict continued to change his phone number. He continued using different phone lines. But as God would have it, operatives closed in on him, and he was finally arrested,” the source said.

Speaking further, Olukoyede warned that anyone involved in the diversion of public resources would eventually face justice, assuring Nigerians that the EFCC would continue to investigate both public and private individuals accused of corruption.

Silentgroper:
Where is national park??


Where In oyo state did this happen??

The Lagos State Government says it is planning to phase out the classification of electricity customers into different bands as introduced by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission in 2024.

In April 2024, NERC placed electricity customers into bands A to E. Band A customers are premium customers mandated to pay the real cost of electricity while enjoying a minimum of 20-hour stable power supplies. Customers in other bands still enjoy government subsidies but with fewer electricity supplies.

Speaking at a ministerial press briefing in Alausa, Ikeja, on Monday, the Lagos State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Biodun Ogunleye, said the Lagos State Government is eyeing stable electricity for all without any need for the banding system.


As the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission now oversees the Lagos electricity market, Ogunleye said Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is interested in ensuring stable power in all homes.


“Let me say this: Part of what we are trying to enable is an environment that eliminates banding. Banding says that you have 3, 8, 12, or 21 hours of electricity.

“What we are saying is, is it impossible to have a continuous power supply? The governor has thrown the challenge and even repeated it again this morning. Is it impossible to have a 24-hour power supply?


“I strongly believe that we can do it. We have seen it before in this city. Banding is not what we want to focus our attention on,” he said.

Ogunleye had earlier said that the Lagos State Government would not allow an electricity subsidy, saying consumers in the state would pay the real cost of electricity as directed by the governor.

He said the state had expanded solar streetlight deployment, strengthened electricity infrastructure, and accelerated clean energy initiatives as part of efforts to transform Lagos into a reliable 24-hour economy.

Ogunleye said the state had intensified implementation of the Lagos State Electricity Law 2024 to establish a competitive electricity market driven by private sector participation.

According to him, the state has updated its Integrated Resource Plan and finalised a Strategic Implementation Plan aimed at eliminating the single-buyer electricity model and encouraging bilateral energy trading.

He said the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission had strengthened licensing and enforcement activities, while the Lagos Independent System Operator was being positioned to improve grid stability and market performance.

On renewable energy deployment, Ogunleye said the government had replaced 22,000 conventional streetlights with smart solar-powered systems across major highways and roads, including Gbagada-Oshodi Expressway, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Ikorodu Road, and Funsho Williams Avenue, adding that another 20,000 solar streetlights had been installed, bringing the total number of operational smart solar streetlights in the state to about 42,000.

The commissioner said critical public facilities had also benefited from improved power supply interventions. He noted that Gbagada General Hospital now enjoyed between 21 and 22 hours of daily electricity following the installation of 2MVA and 1MVA transformers.

According to him, lithium-ion battery storage systems had been deployed across 11 primary healthcare centres and 52 secondary schools, while the Lagos State Television had been equipped with a 200KVA solar-powered energy system.

Fresh facts have emerged over the abduction of school pupils and the killing of two teachers alongside an okada rider in Ahoro-Esiele, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, as investigators uncovered how suspected informants allegedly maintained communication with the abductors through telephone conversations.

The Oyo State Police Command disclosed that investigators traced the suspects through calls believed to have been exchanged with the bandits during and after the operation.

According to the police, the conversations allegedly contained details on how the criminals could successfully navigate routes within the National Park to hidden locations used as safe havens.

The breakthrough led to the arrest of no fewer than six suspects, who are currently in police custody and assisting security agencies with ongoing investigations into the gruesome incident.

Confirming the development on Tuesday morning, the State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Olayinka Ayanlade, said the suspects were apprehended during coordinated security operations across different locations in the state.

“We have six suspects in custody and they are assisting the investigation,”[/b]Ayanlade said.

He added that preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly served as informants to the bandits responsible for the abduction and killings.

[b]“Our findings showed that some of the suspects were in contact with the abductors through telephone conversations and investigators are analysing those communications as part of efforts to uncover the full network behind the crime,” he stated.

Ayanlade further disclosed that security agencies uncovered discussions allegedly centred on routes through the National Park and locations believed to have been used by the criminals as hideouts.

“The conversations contained information on how the abductors could move through the National Park undetected and reach safe locations,” he added.

The police spokesman explained that the suspects were arrested during joint operations involving the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the Western Nigeria Security Network codenamed Amotekun, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and Agro-Rangers.

“The arrests were made possible through intelligence-driven operations carried out by joint security operatives working collaboratively to dismantle the criminal network,” Ayanlade said.

He assured residents that security agencies were intensifying efforts to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate linked to the attack.

“We are committed to ensuring that every individual connected to this criminal act is identified, arrested and brought to justice. Investigations are still ongoing,” he said.

The incident, which claimed the lives of two teachers and an okada rider while school pupils were abducted last Friday, has continued to generate concern among residents of the affected communities and neighbouring areas in Oyo State.

DomPerignon:
Natasha is gone be that.

Bello will win her by a landslide.

A former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has won the All Progressives Congress senatorial primary for Kogi Central in a decisive victory on Monday.

The direct primary election was conducted across the five local government areas that make up the Kogi Central senatorial district.

The Returning Officer, Dr Sadiq Mohammed, announced the results at the collation centre in Okene, describing the exercise as orderly and credible.

Mohammed said Bello polled 72,399 votes, defeating Ibrahim Adoke, who scored 319 votes, and Momoh Yusuf Obaro, who garnered 188 votes.

He added that Bello recorded overwhelming victories across all five local government areas in the district.

In Adavi Local Government Area, Bello secured 18,341 votes, while he scored 10,298 votes in Ajaokuta Local Government Area.


He also garnered 5,146 votes in Ogori Local Government Area, consolidating his wide margin in the contest.

Further results showed Bello polled 8,943 votes in Okehi and 29,621 votes in Okene, his strongest base.

The returning officer said the total of 72,399 votes confirmed a clear and decisive mandate for Bello across the district.

He noted that the process reflected the party’s commitment to internal democracy and peaceful conduct during the primary election.

The outcome positions Bello as the APC flagbearer for the Kogi Central senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections. (NAN)

DESPITE decades of reforms, huge public spending, and the privatisation of Nigeria’s power sector, millions of citizens and businesses continue to grapple with poor electricity supply, rising tariffs, and failing infrastructure. More than a decade after the unbundling of the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria, PHCN, the crises persist. In this interview, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and General Secretary of the National Union of Electricity Employees, NUEE, Joe Ajaero, describes the sector as “the biggest scam in the country,” alleging that it has become a preserve of powerful interests. He speaks on the failed privatisation, DisCos’ challenges, tariff controversies, and pathways to lasting reforms.

Excerpts:

What do you see as the biggest structural failure in Nigeria’s power sector today? Do you think it is generation, transmission, or distribution?

Well, I think it is none of these in isolation. I cannot say that any one of these areas is the major problem. It is collective. We have three sectors that work together. The truth is that if there is a problem in one sector or another, then you are going to suffer for it.

If you generate 10,000 megawatts and transmission capacity is 5,000 megawatts, it is not guaranteed that you will even wheel 5,000 megawatts. You may get to distribution, and the distribution capacity may not even take 10,000 megawatts. So, you suffer either way.

If you have distribution capacity that can take 10,000 megawatts, but transmission cannot meet that capacity, it is a problem. If you have transmission and distribution capacity that can take 10,000 megawatts, but generation has not provided 10,000 megawatts, then that is also a problem. Every sector must match the other.

But the greatest challenge is that these three sectors believe they can handle 10,000 megawatts, yet the supply is not stable. Distribution cannot say it can consistently handle 4,000 megawatts. They may do so today, but tomorrow they may not. The same thing applies to transmission and generation. Generation may tell you there is no gas or that the water level has dropped.

I think this is a challenge we have created in this country because we do not have a conscious master plan for the power sector. The stakeholders are investors whose motive is simply to make money. Until the stakeholders sit together and plan for the future, the problem will remain.

So, are you saying this is the reason why, after 10 years of privatisation, electricity supply has not improved significantly?

Was privatisation meant to improve electricity supply? It is important that we realise this. Privatisation was never meant to improve power supply.

Before the eventual privatisation, licences were given to some individuals to generate electricity, but they did nothing. We told them that the total capacity of NEPA, later known as the PHCN, was 4,000 megawatts. It is scandalous and criminal that the total capacity today is still about 4,000 megawatts.

At the time, I led the union and we warned them that if they privatised and split the system into 20 companies, it would still be the same 4,000 megawatts they were sharing. And that is exactly what happened. Eko, Ikeja, Ibadan, Enugu DisCo, and others are all still depending on the same 4,000 megawatts.

The unbundling and privatisation were not meant to increase capacity. The plan was simply to divide the system so that you would have 20 managing directors and several executive directors, all being serviced from the same 4,000 megawatts. The plan was not to increase generation, transmission, or distribution.

They claimed they wanted to privatise NEPA because it was obsolete. Yet they were all fighting to buy the same supposedly obsolete equipment. They also claimed NEPA was inefficient, but it was that same NEPA that was divided into 20 entities and sold. How did they expect that to improve power supply?

If they truly privatised for the purpose of improving the power sector, they should have shown examples of countries where privatisation improved generation, transmission, and distribution.

Do you think government policy is the challenge, or is it inefficiency in the private sector?

You have to balance the two. You cannot simply generalise that the private sector is inefficient. For example, you can assign the private sector a place like Abuja Central Area. They can handle independent generation there. They can use solar to generate, transmit, and distribute power within that area effectively.

You can also go to Zungeru, which can provide about 900 megawatts, and build a power plant there. We are not talking about politically motivated power stations, as were built when Olusegun Agagu was Minister of Power.

Then you go to the Niger Delta, to places like Bayelsa and Rivers, where gas is constantly being flared. The gas being flared there can power gas-fired stations. Instead, we build political power plants in places like Papalanto and Omotosho and then construct expensive gas pipelines from Bayelsa to those locations. More money is spent on pipelines when the plants could simply have been built where the gas already exists. Once there is any disruption along the pipeline route, the gas supply is affected.

So, we need diversification. We need an energy mix. When people discuss climate change, some countries talk about reducing non-environmentally friendly sources. But you must first have enough electricity before transitioning. Countries like Germany still use coal significantly. In fact, Germany depends on not less than 40 per cent coal for its electricity supply.

In Nigeria, we have no coal-fired power plants despite our large coal deposits. Why? I visited one or two coal-fired plants in South Africa, and a single plant generated 2,000 megawatts. If we combine coal plants with hydro projects like Mambilla and Zungeru, we could generate around 5,000 megawatts from those sources alone. Gas stations could then serve as supplementary or emergency plants.

But instead, we overload gas-powered stations and charge Nigerians based on the cost of gas. That is why I advocated for a Ministry of Energy, where the minister in charge of gas would also oversee transmission and generation. In that case, gas supply and pricing issues would be better coordinated.

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Joseph Tegbe as Power Minister. What are your thoughts?

I have stopped advising government on the people they appoint because they have their own considerations. To them, they believe those people will deliver, so we simply watch.

Even the person appointed as Special Adviser on Power, Mr Rilwan Lanre Babalola, is a former minister. He was at the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) when they designed the privatisation modalities for PHCN. After that process failed, perhaps Mr President is bringing him back to make the system work.

So let us wait and see, 12 or 13 years later, whether they can finally get it right. The man, Babalola, is also the chairman of a newly established Presidential Task Force on Power Sector Reset and Restoration. But I do not know its exact assignment.

Is it meant to improve generation, transmission, or distribution?

Because if the focus shifts away from those core areas, Nigerians will not get electricity.

Is there any power plant Nigeria plans to commission this year? That is the important question. If we start building power plants today, they will only be commissioned in the next three years. Are there any plants currently being built for commissioning next year, in two years, or in three years? If there are none, then the power situation will not improve.

You cannot achieve stable electricity by magic. If we begin now, then in the next four years we can expect improvement. But if no projects are ongoing, even reinforcing existing lines will not solve the problem permanently.

What are your thoughts on the banding system: Band A, Band B, and Band C, where Nigerians pay more for electricity but still do not get supply?

Nigerians are too docile. Why should somebody classify me as Band A and classify another person differently? Is it not my right to have electricity for 24 hours?

As long as this banding system exists, many parts of the country will continue to suffer poor supply. If you go to some villages now, many communities hardly receive electricity supply. The authorities focus on areas designated as Band A because they can pay morɓe. To that extent, electricity is no longer treated as a social service.

People in villages and rural communities are effectively abandoned because they cannot afford the high tariffs. Band A, Band B, and Band C are unfair, and people should not accept the arrangement.

Most Nigerians, including government officials, have said the privatisation of the power sector is not working. Why is it difficult to reverse it?

The privatisation policy originated under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Since the All Progressives Congress (APC) came into power from Muhammadu Buhari to Bola Tinubu, they have not clearly presented their own power or energy policy. They have simply continued with privatisation.

Ordinarily, a new government should assemble experts to review the previous policy and produce a new blueprint. The late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua actually set up a Power Sector Reform Committee headed by Rilwanu Lukman, and I served on that committee. He suspended the privatisation for three years because he said, “How can I privatise something that is not available?”

The 4,000 megawatts Nigeria currently generates was largely achieved during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration. When Obasanjo came in, generation was around 2,000 megawatts. Through rehabilitation and the installation of turbines, it was increased to 4,000 megawatts without building entirely new plants. Later, they started projects like Papalanto and Omotosho.

However, some plants such as Geregu were commissioned using generators, and many eventually ran into problems. At least they attempted to build power plants. But when these plants were sold, some transactions were questionable. For example, Geregu was sold under willing buyer, willing seller arrangements without proper bidding.

Now ask yourself—since the takeover, have these companies increased capacity beyond what they inherited? That alone is enough to show whether privatisation has worked or not.

In every power station, there are simple improvements that can be made. For instance, if you have turbines, you can increase capacity. Ask any of them: have they increased capacity? Are they even operating optimally?

Even if they are operating optimally, countries still plan ahead. If Nigeria has 500 houses this year, next year that number could rise to 550. Those additional 50 houses will need electricity connections and power. So how many megawatts are we supposed to generate next year? Are we not supposed to be building more plants?

Because by the time you have additional houses competing for the same 4,000 megawatts, the number of hours of electricity supply people receive will reduce. As demand rises and supply remains stagnant, the situation naturally worsens.

Organised Labour in the sector has complained about casualisation, pension issues, and lack of working tools. How have these issues affected the sector?

The issue in the power sector also concerns human rights and conditions of service. In fact, we were able to secure conditions of service in some areas, but many of those who came in had no intention of respecting workers’ rights.

Let me tell you what happened recently. The new management that took over one of the DisCos sent a document to all workers in the form of an oath of secrecy. They circulated it and gave all workers within their coverage area a deadline to sign it. The document leaked and got to us. We wrote to them, warning that if they failed to withdraw the form, they would have us to contend with. The following day, or two days later, they withdrew it.

They had attempted to circulate the same kind of form around 2003, and we resisted it then as well. The essence of that document was to compel workers to distance themselves from unions, thereby allowing management to do whatever they wanted. They could convert workers into casual staff and impose all kinds of unfavourable conditions. That is what you are seeing in the power sector today.

Even the people currently managing some of these DisCos are not the original owners. The first people who bought these companies resold them, and the companies have since changed hands several times. In truth, many of those initial buyers lacked both the financial and technical capacity to manage them. They did not have the money required.

If you observe closely, some banks have effectively taken over many power companies because they financed their acquisitions through loans. The original buyers of these power assets had little or no capital of their own. They borrowed heavily from Nigerian banks, and this contributed to the liquidity challenges the banks later faced because of the power sector. No foreign capital came into the country to purchase these DisCos. The acquisitions were financed largely with local bank loans.

That is why, if you look at Abuja Electricity today, banks have effectively taken over because the operators could not repay their loans. Since then, everything has revolved around profit. Human rights abuses began to emerge. Not long ago, we saw what happened at one of the DisCos where almost 900 workers were sacked. That is the kind of abuse taking place.

The operators lack the financial muscle and technical competence required to run these companies effectively. At the time, if you and I had agreed, we could simply have registered an electricity company, gone to a bank, obtained a loan, and acquired either Abuja or Ikeja Electricity. If we failed to service the loan, the bank would step in and seize the company.

As we speak, almost eight or nine DisCos have been taken over by banks. Many of these companies are facing serious challenges because of this arrangement. That is the problem we have today. We failed to ensure that only investors with genuine technical expertise and real financial capacity took over these DisCos. Now, the banks are effectively running them. But banks are not electrical engineering companies. They are now hiring personnel here and there just to keep operations going.

Is this the kind of privatisation process Nigeria intended to pursue?

The whole idea behind privatisation was to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), technical competence, and managerial expertise. At the time, apart from the Nigerian Electricity Supply Corporation (NESCO) Limited in Plateau State, Nigeria had virtually no indigenous electricity company with such experience.

Unfortunately, some individuals simply emerged and took over these companies without the necessary capacity. That is why they are still experimenting. One of these DisCos has had almost six managing directors in succession. Each new management comes in, sacks workers, and focuses mainly on increasing tariffs—and they are succeeding.

They use these arguments to convince the Federal Government to grant subsidies and financial support. Now they are talking about six trillion naira. Yet before privatisation, the government was not even subsidising PHCN with N100 million or N50 million. Government was practically giving nothing. So why is government now paying trillions after privatisation?

That is the question Nigerians should ask.

How much was government spending on PHCN before privatisation, when it was still fully government-owned? The assets were privatised for about N400 billion, and these operators were already collecting substantial revenues from day one. Yet between then and now, government has reportedly committed trillions of naira to support the sector.

That is why it is difficult to break the clique controlling the power sector. I have spoken before about regulatory capture. This clique can influence, if not determine, who becomes Minister of Power, who becomes Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), and who occupies other strategic positions. That is what is happening today.

I had a serious debate with the last minister in his office. He was defending the decision for his office to use solar power. I told him he could not justify that unless he no longer wanted the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) or the DisCos to remain profitable.

If government offices use solar power, and citizens like me also switch to solar at home, while billions are still being invested in the grid, how then do you expect DisCos to recover costs by charging ordinary Nigerians who often do not even enjoy stable electricity supply? Why would the Minister of Power set such an example?

If a large percentage of Nigerians eventually switch to solar, then what exactly would the Minister of Power still be managing?

I understand that a presidential task force has now been set up. But if that task force is not focused on how Nigeria can sustainably move from about 4,000 megawatts to a significantly higher capacity, then it serves little purpose.

It is not enough to celebrate achieving 5,000 megawatts today if by the next morning generation drops back to 3,000 megawatts because the improvement is not sustainable.

Let us stop pretending we do not have ambition. Let us, for example, set a target and ask ourselves how to achieve it sustainably, so that it becomes the minimum available capacity at any given time.

Following the coordinated attacks on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on Friday, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, on Sunday expressed dismay and charged state governments, saying, “Yorubaland is now under siege.”

The leader of the group, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, disclosed this in a statement released by the organisation’s National Publicity Secretary in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.

He lamented that the incident occurred the same week he marked his 100th year on earth.

The PUNCH reports that terrorists on motorbikes attacked Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Ahoro-Esinele; and L.A. Primary School, all in Oriire Local Government Area on Friday, May 15.

Fasoranti sympathised with the victims and their families, praying for the quick recovery of those injured.

He expressed hope that a total stop would be put to the life-threatening insecurity situation in the country without further delay.

The statement read, “Afenifere Leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, was saddened to hear this unfortunate incident which occurred the same week he marked his 100th year on earth.”

It added, “To list some incidents of terrorism in recent times to underscore his (Fasoranti’s) call for urgent action to stem the tide. Among the instances he cited were the confirmation by the Ogun State Police Command on Tuesday, May 12, of the abduction of three members of a family by suspected gunmen at Ipojo Golden Estate, Oke-Eri, in Ijebu Ode. On Wednesday last week, the Police and vigilante operatives disrupted an alleged ₦10 million ransom collection operation by a suspected kidnapping gang in Otefon Village Forest, Atiba Local Government Area, Oyo State.

“On April 18, heavily armed gunmen invaded a church during an open-air crusade in Eda Oniyo, Ekiti State, killing a pastor and abducting several worshippers. Gunmen stormed Woro and Nuku in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State on February 3 and 4, killed many and abducted more than 170 people.

“On May 2, gunmen invaded a Police Mobile Force camp in Tenebo, Kaiama LGA, killing three police officers. On the same day, a 60-year-old trader was kidnapped in the Jinarere area of Ibadan by four masked gunmen, just as one Alhaji Aleshinloye, a businessman, was kidnapped in Irawo, Atisbo Local Government Area of Oyo State last week. Earlier, a schoolgirl was kidnapped in the Challenge area of Ibadan, while a retired teacher was killed on his farm in Ago Area, Oke-Ogun, Oyo State.

“On November 18, 2025, Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, Ekiti LGA of Kwara State, was attacked by terrorists during a Tuesday evening service, killing three worshippers and abducting 38 others, including a pastor.

“Four passengers were abducted along the Igbeti–Kisi Road, though they were later rescued by police, Amotekun and Operation Burst. The list of terror acts keeps growing,” he lamented.

Afenifere declared that the latest attacks reinforced growing fears that the terrorists appeared determined to overrun the South-West and, ultimately, the entire South.

“The chilling reality thus detonated the earlier notion that the southwestern part of Nigeria was a safe haven considered relatively insulated from extremist violence that is prevalent in some other parts of the country.”

He added that what was happening now seemed to have been anticipated, going by actions taken by South-West governors under the leadership of the late Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, who established the South-West Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, on January 9, 2020.

“The initiative was designed to safeguard the six states of the region,” he added.

Afenifere commended the swift visit of the Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu, to Oriire following Friday’s kidnap incident, and the inauguration of the Police’s Violence Crime Response Unit in Ibadan by Governor Seyi Makinde on Saturday, May 16, 2026. It expressed hope that the initiatives would help prevent crimes, including banditry.

It, however, said, “The actions of South-West governors in recent times do not suggest that they appreciate the enormity of the responsibility they shoulder concerning the security of their land.”

The group recalled that governors of Ondo, Ekiti, Osun, Ogun, Lagos and Oyo met in Ibadan on Monday, November 24, 2025, in what was described as a Security Summit.

“The objective of the meeting was mainly on how to secure the South-West. In February, the Ogun State Government launched closed-circuit television hubs for security purposes, just as Ondo and Ekiti State governments also announced various steps to stem insecurity in their respective states.

“Earlier in the year, Oyo announced the purchase of two DA 42 MNG Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance aircraft at a cost of N7.7 billion. Announcing the purchase, Governor Makinde said the aircraft, when fully operational, would provide wide aerial coverage across Oyo and extend surveillance to vulnerable corridors linking Oyo and Kwara states, areas often exploited by criminal elements due to the porosity of the borders.

“Were the aircraft deployed, what happened last week would have been nipped in the bud because the planes were reported to be fitted with sophisticated surveillance technology capable of identifying targets from both high and low altitudes, which allow for real-time intelligence gathering, improving rapid response and precision security operations.”

Afenifere wondered what had become of the resolutions by the six governors, the CCTV installations in Ogun, the surveillance aircraft purchased by Oyo, and other security measures announced by Ondo at various times.

It recalled reports of bandits sending notices in English and Yoruba of planned attacks to some communities in Oriire LGA shortly after the killing of five forest guards at Oloka village in January this year.

“In view of the fact that the primary duty of government is the security and welfare of the people, governments in South-West states of Nigeria must prove that they are alive to their constitutionally assigned responsibilities. Everything must be done to ensure that no area in the region experiences attacks by kidnappers and bandits anymore. Yorubaland has been infiltrated.”

Afenifere called on the six governors in the region to make the security of their people their top priority.

“Every necessary step must be taken to ensure that terrorists do not have a place, not to talk of a foothold in Yorubaland — from Lagos up to Kogi, including Edo and Delta States,” the group said.

It added that while the Federal Government has the onerous duty of ensuring the security and welfare of Nigerians, governors have the responsibility of using resources at their disposal to secure their people and guarantee their welfare.

President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to see tax payment as a civic obligation necessary for national development.

Tinubu spoke on Friday at the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali.


He said many citizens demand better roads, hospitals and social amenities while resisting taxation and other development-driven policies.

The president said taxes remain essential for financing infrastructure, healthcare, education and welfare programmes targeted at vulnerable citizens.


“Nobody wants to pay taxes. Yet everyone expects development. You want good roads and well-equipped hospitals, but you don’t want to contribute through taxes. The question is: how do we fund development and secure the future of our children?,”[/b]he said.

Tinubu maintained that both individuals and corporate organisations must contribute to national growth through compliance with tax obligations.

“A citizen who pays tax is a citizen. If you are not paying taxes and not exempted, then you are not fulfilling your obligation,” he said.

[b]The president also defended the economic reforms introduced by his administration, including the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market, describing them as difficult but necessary measures aimed at stabilising the economy.

According to him, Nigeria could no longer sustain subsidy payments and policies that encouraged corruption and smuggling.

“It was necessary to reset and reform the economy. We were spending future generations’ resources before they were born,” Tinubu said.

Reflecting on the state of the economy before the reforms, the president said several states struggled to pay salaries despite Nigeria’s oil wealth.

“You are producing oil, spending heavily on fuel subsidy, yet your refineries are not working. That trend was unsustainable,” he noted.

Tinubu acknowledged that the reforms initially triggered hardship and criticism but said early signs indicated that the policies were beginning to produce positive outcomes.

He stated that the naira had become more stable and predictable, making it easier for businesses and government institutions to plan effectively.

The president further explained that savings from the reforms had enabled the government to expand intervention programmes for students and vulnerable households through educational support and direct assistance initiatives.

Despite ongoing economic challenges, Tinubu expressed confidence in Nigeria’s long-term prospects, assuring that his administration would continue to pursue policies aimed at economic recovery, stability and sustainable growth.

phemmie06:
This man doesn't want to wait for 70 virgins anymore

Cyberterror:
Is Makinde aware that Wike's faction is still sitting pretty on INEC's website?

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, 81, has been sworn in for a seventh term, extending his 40-year tenure following a landslide victory in controversial January elections.

One of Africa’s longest-serving leaders, Museveni took the oath of office on Tuesday at an event at the Kololo Independence Grounds in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, while being cheered by thousands of attendees.

The election in January took place amid a nationwide internet blackout and reports of intimidation and abductions of the opposition.
Museveni won 71.65 percent of the vote, according to Uganda’s Electoral Commission.
Opposition leader Bobi Wine, an entertainer whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, received 24.72 percent and said “massive” ballot stuffing had taken place.

Since taking office in 1986, Museveni has twice changed the constitution to remove term and age limits.

The former rebel leader once said Africa’s problem was leaders who overstayed their welcome.

He is credited by Ugandans with overseeing rapid economic growth and ending a period of post-independence chaos that followed the end of British colonial rule in 1962.

Museveni first came to power as a rebel leader in 1986 but since then has won seven elections.
He is among the few African leaders in power for more than 40 years. Others include Congo-Brazzaville’s Denis Sassou Nguesso, Equatorial Guinea’s Teodoro Obiang and Cameroon’s Paul Biya.

In his address, Museveni said that his government would use revenue from planned oil production to grow the economy and alleviate poverty.

African leaders who attended the ceremony included Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Félix Tshisekedi, South Sudan’s Salva Kiir and Somalia’s Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

Uganda has one of the world’s youngest populations, with the majority of the people having known no other president.
Museveni has not indicated when he intends to retire, but analysts say this is likely to be his last term.

A Fulani group, the Kautal Pulaaku Fulbe Association, has reacted to an order from Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang to security agencies to shoot-on-sight anyone found destroying farmlands in any part of the state.

Mutfwang had, during a security meeting on Tuesday, given the order to security operatives not to spare any criminal element, especially those who invade farming communities, killing the people and destroying their means of livelihood.

But in a statement on Wednesday morning signed by its National President Dr. Muh’d Hussaini Buzaye, the Fulani group said the order by the Governor was extreme and should be rescinded immediately as it has the potential of further escalating insecurity in the state.


Bazuye stated that the order for security operatives to shoot every destroyer of farmlands while remaining silent on ethnic militias who attack, kill herders, and poison their cattle was a testament that the Plateau State government was not concerned about the lives of Fulani people in the state.

In the statement, Buzaye made a strong appeal to Gov. Mutfwang to reverse the order, urging him to ensure that all security directives and enforcement measures in the state are applied with strict fairness, justice, and equal treatment for all communities without any form of bias or discrimination.

He stated that the association’s call comes in reaction to recent statements by the Governor ordering security agencies to take decisive action against individuals found destroying farmlands.

“While acknowledging the importance of protecting agricultural livelihoods and ensuring food security, the Kautal Pulaaku Fulbe Association also calls for justice and consistency in implementing any executive order and such must remain central in the enforcement of any security policy,” he said.
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‎According to the association, if such stringent measures were to be implemented against those who destroy farmlands, then equal and comparable action must also be taken against all other forms of criminal activity that continue to threaten peace and stability in the state.

“These include cattle rustling, the poisoning of livestock, unlawful road blockages, attacks on innocent citizens, destruction of military checkpoints, and other acts of violence that undermine public safety and order,” the statement noted.
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‎The group further raised serious concerns over the persistent loss of lives and property affecting its members, stating that many herders are often attacked and killed while carrying out their daily activities of rearing animals. It also noted that cattle rustling remains a major challenge, with many livestock being stolen, killed, or forcefully taken away, describing the situation as a deeply troubling and recurring security crisis.
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“These incidents frequently occur while our members are on transit or in the course of their legitimate livelihood activities, making the issue a matter of urgent humanitarian and security concern.

“‎The association emphasizes that these challenges require immediate and decisive attention from the Plateau State government and security agencies. The continued inaction from the state government and security agencies could worsen tensions and deepen mistrust among affected communities.
‎
‎”The directive by Gov. Mutfwang appears to focus mainly on farmers and those involved in farmland-related disputes, while raising concern over what they described as a lack of equal emphasis on addressing the equally serious challenges faced by herders.

“What are the measures being taken regarding the protection of herders, especially in cases involving attacks, cattle rustling, and loss of lives? Justice must be applied evenly to all sides for lasting peace to be achieved.

“The Kautal Pulaaku Fulbe Association is also concerned over rising incidents of hate speech, tribal incitement, and divisive rhetoric within communities. Such behaviour significantly contributes to tension and mistrust among different groups in the state. We hereby, call for equal accountability for anyone found engaging in such acts, regardless of background or affiliation.
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‎”The Kautal Pulaaku Fulbe Association reaffirms its commitment to peaceful coexistence and calls on all stakeholders in Plateau State to work collectively with government and security agencies in addressing insecurity, restoring trust, and strengthening unity across all communities in the state and Nigeria at large,” it concluded.

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has vowed that Akwa Ibom State will deliver the highest number of votes for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the South-South geo-political zone during the 2027 presidential election.

Akpabio stated this during the consultation with critical stakeholders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) at the Government House, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, where Governor Umo Eno formally consulted party members on his return bid to the Government House in 2027.

A statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, quoted Akpabio as saying, “The event of today shows that Governor Eno is a peaceful governor, a man of God in words and in deeds.

“His peaceful disposition and ability to carry everybody along have given us the assurance that, in the South-South geo-political zone, Akwa Ibom will deliver the highest number of votes.

“Despite the fact that he has no one challenging him for the sole ticket of the party, he is humble enough to still consult party members and critical stakeholders in the state. That is very instructive of the kind of person he is.


“If you also go around the state, you will know that there is a government in place. Projects are being initiated, completed and commissioned for the use of the people. Even abandoned projects are being completed and commissioned.

“That is a governor who has the progress of his people at heart. I congratulate him on the recent commencement of international flights to and from the Victor Attah International Airport.”

Speaking further, Akpabio stated that the people and government of Akwa Ibom State were very grateful to President Bola Tinubu for supporting one of their sons to the exalted position of President of the Senate and would show their gratitude at the polls next year.

In Zamfara State, according to a security report prepared for the United Nations and seen by AFP, yesterday, travellers were ambushed by an armed group referred to locally as “bandits,” who killed “30 individuals, including civilians, hunters and a community protection guard,”[/i] the report said.

It noted that the suspected terrorists operating around the Dansadau axis of Zamfara State ambushed commuters travelling along the Magami-Dansadau road, killing 30 and abducting several others.

A resident of Magami, who pleaded anonymity for security reasons, said the incident occurred on Sunday between 4a.m., and 5p.m., when the attackers opened fire on vehicles travelling along the notorious route.

According to him, so far, 10 dead bodies have been recovered.

“As you are aware, the road from Magami to Dansadau requires the escort of security agents to safely lead commuters to their communities.

”The commuters waited for about seven hours on Saturday after the security operatives came to escort them to Dansadau. While they were going on their way, suspected bandits launched an attack on their convoy, targeting the operational vehicle.

“The convoy reached Dogosatsin village when the bandits opened fire on the operational vehicle of the security forces who were escorting the commuters to Dansadau, killing both security agents and civilians, CJTF, and leaving several others with different degrees of injuries.

[i]“We recovered 10 dead bodies and are still searching for others. Those injured were admitted to the Magami General Hospital but were later referred to Gusau.


”However, they are still in the hospital because there is no escort yet to evacuate them to Gusau Hospital.

“The bandits also whisked away an unspecified number of people, as they were going to various villages in the area.

”It took the tremendous efforts of the troops to chase the bandits into the bush with their firepower, which reduced the casualties of the incident.”

While the spokesperson of the Zamfara Police Command, Yazid Abubakar, said he was aware of the attack, he noted that casualty figures were still being verified at the time of filing this report.

The Gusau-Magami-Dansadau road has remained one of the most dangerous routes in Zamfara State, frequently plagued by banditry, kidnappings and deadly attacks by armed groups.

Panic in Makurdi as suspected cult war claims 10 lives

In Makurdi, no fewer than 10 persons were reportedly killed, while several others sustained injuries, following a bloody clash between rival cult groups in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.

The latest incident came barely one week after a similar attack in the Agwan Jukun area of the town, where three persons were killed.

It was gathered that the renewed attack, which occurred between late Sunday night and the early hours of Monday in the High-Level and Wurukum areas of Makurdi threw residents into panic as many fled their homes for fear of being attacked.

An eyewitness disclosed that armed youths invaded parts of the town, including Owerri and Onitsha Streets, targeting victims in their homes.

According to the eyewitness, “10 persons were killed in the attacks which took place between 10p.m., on Sunday and 2a.m., on Monday around the Wurukum and High-Level areas.


“At Owerri Street, some young men arrived on motorcycles and shot a man who was sitting outside his house chatting with friends.

“Also, on Onitsha Street, they stormed the residence of a popular shoemaker near City Bay and shot him dead.

“In a house in High Level, they killed eight persons. Four of the victims were their targets while four others lost their lives for being close to the original targets.


“They fired several gunshots, creating panic in the area. As we speak, many residents have fled their homes for fear of further attacks.

“It appeared to be a coordinated attack by a rival cult group. After carrying out the attacks, the assailants disappeared without a trace.”

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Makurdi Local Government Area, Mr. Joseph Keffi, decried the killings, describing them as “ugly, pathetic and condemnable.”

Keffi explained that reports available to him indicated that some armed youths riding motorcycles stormed a compound where four persons were sleeping, called them out and shot them dead.

He added that four other persons who came out after hearing gunshots were also killed.


When contacted, the Benue State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ifeanyi Emenari confirmed the incident but said the command had recorded six fatalities so far.

He added that the command’s spokesperson would provide further details on the incident.

2 killed in Plateau attack

Meanwhile, two persons were killed in an attack on Kyeng village in Bachi District of Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Vanguard gathered that the gunmen stormed the community at 8p.m., on Sunday night and started shooting sporadically.

The Berom Youth Moulders-Association, BYM, confirmed the sad development to newsmen in Jos, yesterday.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Rwang Tengwong, the association identified the victims as Peter Dung, 22, and Amos Bele Danbwarang, 19.

According to the statement, the two youths were ambushed and shot dead about 8:20p.m., before the attackers fled into nearby bushes.

The association described the incident as barbaric, inhuman, and part of the continued attacks on innocent native communities in Plateau State.

“The Berom Youth Moulders-Association strongly condemns the killing of two Berom youths by armed terrorists at Kyeng village in Bachi District of Riyom Local Government Area,” the statement read.

BYM called on security agencies to immediately go after the perpetrators and ensure justice is served.

The group also urged governments at all levels to take decisive measures towards ending the persistent killings and attacks in Plateau communities.

It further extended condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Bachi District over the incident.

The Federal Government has stepped up engagement with the World Bank for a fresh $1.25bn loan to support economic reforms, job creation, and competitiveness, as findings by The PUNCH showed that the facility has reached a critical stage in the lender’s approval process

The proposed loan, titled Nigeria Actions for Investment and Jobs Acceleration, is expected to be presented for approval on June 26, 2026, about six months and 21 days before the January 16, 2027, presidential election, according to the revised timetable of the Independent National Electoral Commission.

If approved, the loan will rank as the second-largest single World Bank facility secured under President Bola Tinubu, behind only the $1.5bn Reforms for Economic Stabilisation to Enable Transformation Development Policy Financing approved in June 2024.

At an exchange rate of N1,361.4 to the dollar, the proposed $1.25bn facility translates to about N1.70tn, showing the scale of external financing being pursued by the Federal Government amid ongoing economic reforms.

If approved and fully disbursed without any delay, the proposed $1.25bn World Bank loan, equivalent to about N1.70tn at an exchange rate of N1,361.4/$, will raise Nigeria’s external debt from N74.43tn ($51.86bn) as of December 31, 2025, to at least N76.13tn ($53.11bn).

The country’s total public debt would also rise from N159.28tn to at least N160.98tn. In dollar terms, Nigeria’s total public debt could rise from $110.97bn to about $112.22bn if the facility is eventually approved and fully disbursed.

Details of the facility were contained in a World Bank Programme Information Document obtained by The PUNCH on Monday, which showed that the loan has progressed beyond the initial concept and appraisal phases.

Crucially, The PUNCH confirmed that the operation is now at the decision meeting stage of the World Bank’s project cycle, a point at which the lender’s management reviews the final appraisal package and determines whether the project should proceed to the Board of Executive Directors for approval.

This stage typically comes after appraisal and negotiations have been substantially concluded, meaning that key policy actions, financing terms, and reform commitments have already been agreed in principle between the borrower and the World Bank team.

In the World Bank process, the decision meeting represents a near-final internal clearance, after which the project is prepared for formal Board consideration, where final approval is granted.

Supporting this position, the World Bank document stated, “The review did authorise the team to appraise and negotiate,” indicating that the project has successfully passed earlier internal checks and is advancing toward final approval.

The borrower is listed as the Federal Republic of Nigeria, while the Federal Ministry of Finance will serve as the implementing agency.

According to the World Bank, the loan is designed “to support the government’s efforts to expand access to finance, digital, and electricity services, and strengthen competitiveness through tax, trade, and agriculture reforms.”

The fresh borrowing move comes amid growing scrutiny of Nigeria’s rising reliance on multilateral financing under Tinubu. Findings showed that the World Bank has approved about $9.35bn in loans and credits for Nigeria between June 2023 and May 2026.

These approvals span multiple sectors, including power, education, healthcare, agriculture, social protection, renewable energy, MSME financing, and economic reform support. Key packages include the $2.25bn RESET and ARMOR reform financing in June 2024, $1.57bn for HOPE and SPIN programmes in September 2024, and $1.08bn for education and resilience programmes in March 2025.

If the proposed $1.25bn facility is approved next month, total World Bank approvals under Tinubu would rise to about $10.6bn, reinforcing the bank’s role as a major external financier for Nigeria’s reform agenda.

However, The PUNCH observed that many of the approved loans are not immediately disbursed, as fund releases are tied to the fulfilment of specific policy and reform conditions, often resulting in delays.

Govt warns

The Accountant-General of the Federation, Dr Shamseldeen Ogunjimi, earlier warned that Nigeria may reject loan facilities from the World Bank if delays in approval and disbursement persist, saying prolonged timelines could undermine the country’s willingness to proceed with such arrangements.

The warning was contained in a press statement last week by the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, Bawa Mokwa.

Ogunjimi, who spoke in Abuja during a courtesy visit by a World Bank delegation led by Mrs Treed Lane, stressed that Nigeria expects timely processing of funding requests, given that the facilities are loans and not grants.

He said, “If approvals take more than six months, the Nigerian Government may no longer honour such arrangements,” highlighting concerns over bureaucratic delays in accessing development financing.

The AGF noted that as a responsible borrower, Nigeria should not be subjected to prolonged approval processes that could affect project execution timelines and broader development objectives. He therefore urged the World Bank to “expedite the approval and disbursement of project funds to Nigeria” to support the country’s priorities.

Ogunjimi emphasised that the loans carry repayment obligations, making it imperative that disbursement processes align with project schedules and fiscal planning frameworks.

However, the Senior External Affairs Officer at the World Bank, Mansir Nasir, earlier told The PUNCH that funds for projects financed by the institution were not disbursed at once but in instalments, depending on the nature of the project and financing instruments.

The PUNCH also reported that Nigeria’s debt to the World Bank rose by $2.08bn in one year to $19.89bn as of December 31, 2025, according to an analysis of external debt stock data released by the Debt Management Office.

The figure represents an 11.7 per cent increase from the $17.81bn owed to the global lender as of December 31, 2024. The World Bank debt comprises loans from the International Development Association and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

IDA provides concessional grants and loans to low-income countries, while IBRD provides financial products and policy advice mainly to middle-income and creditworthy developing countries.

DMO data showed that Nigeria’s IDA debt rose from $16.56bn in 2024 to $18.51bn in 2025, an increase of $1.94bn or 11.73 per cent. IBRD exposure also increased from $1.24bn to $1.38bn, representing an increase of $141.84m or 11.41 per cent.

The increase means World Bank loans accounted for 38.36 per cent of Nigeria’s total external debt stock of $51.86bn as of the end of 2025.

The proposed loan is aligned with the World Bank’s Country Partnership Framework and forms part of a broader package of interventions, including FINCLUDE, BRIDGE, AGROW, ARMOR, and DARES programmes.

According to the bank, the facility is expected to drive growth through multiple channels, including reduced food and input costs, improved agricultural productivity, expansion of digital services, deeper financial markets, increased private investment, improved electricity access, and stronger tax revenue mobilisation.

“The $1.25bn standalone operation builds on recent progress in restoring stability and underpins the Government’s shift toward an inclusive growth model,” the document stated.

Implementation of the programme will be coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Finance, working with key agencies including the Central Bank of Nigeria, Securities and Exchange Commission, National Agricultural Seed Council, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, and the Ministry of Power.

However, it warned that the operation carries significant risks. “Overall, the risk to this DPF is assessed as high. Political and governance risks are elevated ahead of the 2027 elections, with pressures that could delay or reverse sensitive reforms,” the bank stated.

Economists speak

Economists warn that the rising loan pipeline, while potentially beneficial for long-term development, could deepen fiscal pressures if not matched with stronger domestic revenue mobilisation and prudent expenditure management.

Lagos-based economist, Adewale Abimbola, reacting to the rising World Bank commitments to Nigeria, said loans from multilateral institutions such as the World Bank are largely concessionary, with interest rates typically below market levels and longer repayment tenors

He noted that the critical question is not whether Nigeria should be borrowing, but whether the loans are structured and deployed effectively. “If it’s concessionary and tied to viable projects with medium-term revenue prospects, I don’t think it’s a bad idea,” Abimbola explained. “Borrowing isn’t bad; what matters is utilisation.”

He stressed that the economic impact of such loans depends on how well they are channelled into projects that can generate sustainable growth, strengthen revenue, and improve public services over time.

Development economist and CEO of CSA Advisory, Dr Aliyu Ilias, has expressed strong reservations about Nigeria’s rising debt profile amid rising World Bank loans.

While acknowledging that borrowing is not inherently bad for an economy, he questioned the rationale for taking on more debt at a time when the government claims to have higher revenues.

Ilias pointed out that, following the removal of the fuel subsidy, Tinubu had announced increased revenue inflows, further suggesting that the government should be able to fund projects without resorting to heavy borrowing.

Economist and CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise, Dr Muda Yusuf, stressed that borrowing should always be backed by sound economic reasoning and clear development priorities.

Yusuf emphasised that the key issue is debt sustainability, which depends primarily on the country’s revenue capacity to service its obligations.

Without a strong cash flow to meet repayment schedules, he warned, Nigeria risks falling into a vicious cycle of borrowing to service existing loans, perpetuating fiscal vulnerability. He said it is essential that projects funded by loans directly support the economy’s capacity to repay.

According to him, Nigeria should be cautious with foreign loans due to the exchange rate risks they pose, noting that domestic debt is generally easier to manage. Excessive foreign borrowing, he warned, could put pressure on the country’s reserves and further weaken the exchange rate.

He stressed that a disciplined approach to debt sustainability will be crucial for Nigeria to avoid long-term fiscal distress.

Debt outlook fragile

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Economic Summit Group has warned that Nigeria’s debt outlook remains fragile despite signs of surface-level improvement, stressing that underlying fiscal pressures are still elevated and could worsen with continued borrowing.

In its Debt Burden Monitor report released on Monday, the NESG said while headline indicators suggest some stabilisation, the country’s debt position remains “a nuanced but concerning picture” as structural weaknesses persist beneath the surface.

The group noted that Nigeria’s Debt Burden Index declined to 70.9 points in 2024 from 83.6 points in 2023, which could give the impression that debt stress is easing. However, it cautioned that the improvement was largely driven by a temporary moderation in debt service pressures rather than any real strengthening of fiscal capacity.

It further pointed out that public debt-to-GDP rose to 40.6 per cent in 2024, reflecting continued reliance on borrowing to finance fiscal deficits and weak revenue generation, highlighting what it described as persistent fiscal vulnerability.

According to the NESG, recent data reinforces concerns, as the Debt Burden Index remained elevated and volatile throughout 2025, fluctuating within a high-stress range and ending the year at an estimated 79.2 points.

“This pattern indicates that debt pressure has not structurally eased but instead fluctuates within a high-stress band,” the report stated.

The group added that the seeming improvement in conventional debt ratios masks deeper structural imbalances, noting that valuation effects, rather than genuine fiscal strengthening, were responsible for the changes.

It warned that Nigeria has not yet made a decisive shift toward debt sustainability, stressing that the economy remains in what it described as a “high-risk fiscal environment”

‎‎Less than 24 hours after President Bola Tinubu visited Plateau State on April 3, 2026, and assured residents that recurring killings in the state would not happen again, a fresh wave of attacks began to unfold across several communities, leaving scores dead and many others injured.
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‎An analysis of reported incidents following the presidential visit shows that Plateau recorded at least 14 separate attacks with no less than 50 casualties, clashes or major security incidents between April 3 and May 10, spanning Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bassa, Mangu and Jos South local government areas.
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‎Tinubu had visited Plateau after deadly attacks in parts of Bokkos and surrounding communities that sparked national outrage and renewed concerns over insecurity in the North-Central state.
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‎During the visit, the President promised that the Federal Government would work towards restoring lasting peace to the state.
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‎Addressing community leaders and victims, Tinubu expressed sympathy over the killings and acknowledged that no compensation could truly replace lives lost in the attacks.
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‎“There is nothing I can give you, whether in billions, that can replace the lives lost. But we will do everything possible to ensure that such tragedy does not happen again,” the President said.
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‎However, violence has continued in the weeks that followed.
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‎On the same day as the presidential visit, April 3, at least three persons were reportedly shot dead in Nyango Gyel community of Jos South Local Government Area.
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‎Three days later, on April 6, reports indicated that security forces repelled an attack on Pwomol village in Heipang District of Barkin Ladi LGA. But barely 24 hours later, another assault on the same community reportedly left three youths dead and one injured after gunmen attacked the village at night.
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‎Security tensions escalated further on April 18 when troops reportedly arrested nine suspected militia members following renewed clashes in parts of Plateau.

‎On April 20, coordinated attacks were reported in Kpasho, Hurum Gashish and Shonong Bachi communities located across Bassa, Barkin Ladi and Riyom LGAs. Reports said several persons were killed or injured during the assaults.
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‎Another deadly incident was reported on April 26 in Riyom LGA, where a pastor, his wife and their two children were allegedly killed in the Rim community.
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‎By April 30, local reports referenced another ambush along the Aloghom–Yilpo road in Mangu LGA, where a youth miner was reportedly killed while two others sustained injuries.
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‎The attacks intensified in May
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‎On May 4, reports claimed that no fewer than nine persons, including a soldier, were killed in separate attacks across Mangu, Bassa and Barkin Ladi local government areas.
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‎A day later, gunmen reportedly attacked Nding Susut community in Barkin Ladi, killing six persons, including a family of five.
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‎On May 6, mourners returning from a burial ceremony in Rim community of Riyom LGA were reportedly ambushed by gunmen, further heightening fears among residents already grappling with repeated attacks.
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‎Fresh violence again erupted between May 8 and 9 in Bassa and Riyom LGAs. Reports indicated that between 12 and 13 persons, including three pregnant women, were killed in attacks on Ngbra Zongo community in Kwall District and Gwa Rim village.
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‎The latest reported incidents occurred on May 10 when coordinated attacks reportedly hit Sabon Layi, Rakung and Gangare communities in Barkin Ladi LGA, leaving at least 7 persons dead, including a police officer.

Also, on May 10, gunmen invaded Furyam Takzul community in Kantana Ward of Kanam Local Government Area of Plateau State, killing two people and abducting five others, including women and children.
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‎The repeated attacks have renewed concerns over the worsening security situation in Plateau despite federal assurances and increased security deployments.

Presidential Intervention

Tinubu with Plateau Stakeholders
Two weeks ago, the President hosted a 32-member delegation from Plateau at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

At the meeting which had Governor Mutfwang, former governors, traditional rulers and political leaders in attendance, discussions focused on addressing the root causes of violence such as indigene-settler tensions, religion, ethnicity and farmer-herder conflicts

“No protocols, no hindrances, we are here to speak our minds and find a permanent solution to a recurring conflict and chaos. I have heard the leaders. Everybody here is seeking peace. How do we chart our path to that peace?”

“Let us first of all accept one resolution – tolerance for every inhabitant. If people are being recruited to provoke anger, conflict and killings, it is you, the leaders, that should first of all examine yourselves,” Tinubu said.

He underscored the need for leaders to champion a concerted effort to achieve enduring peace in the state, given that Plateau State was known for peace and for its receptiveness to other tribes across the nation.

“We all must find a way to accommodate one another. We must stop the situation where people are recruited to instigate tribal conflict and killings. I am glad that I listened to the youth,” he added.

He also called on the state government to identify and name agent provocateurs so they can face the full wrath of the law.

The President urged the governor to draw on the pool of enlightened leaders available to him across all spheres of life to foster harmony in the state.

But shortly after the meeting, the killing spree continued.

‎‎For decades, Plateau has remained one of Nigeria’s major flashpoints for recurring communal and armed violence, often linked to disputes over land, grazing routes, ethnicity and religion. Communities in Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bassa, Bokkos and Mangu have repeatedly suffered deadly attacks, displacement and destruction of property.
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‎Civil society groups and community leaders have repeatedly called for stronger intelligence gathering, improved security presence and prosecution of perpetrators, warning that the cycle of violence continues largely because attackers are rarely brought to justice.

Accord has condemned the killing of Kolade Eluyera, son of the party’s Woman Leader in Irewole Local Government Area of Osun State on Friday.

Eluyera was reportedly killed on Friday near Onireke Mosque in Ikire.

The party, in a statement signed by Barrister Maxwell Mgbuden, its National Chairman, said it is devastated over the cruel murder of a promising young man.


The statement added, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the members of his family, trusting God to console, comfort and strengthen them in this trying time.

“Certainly, his death will not be in vain. Kolade Eluyera has paid the supreme price in our collective quest for a better, greater and prosperous Osun State.”


Accord demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators and their sponsors.

It added, “We are deeply saddened over the failure of security agencies to prevent this bloodshed, harassment of our members and destruction of public properties, Imole Campaign and Accord’s billboards across the state by thugs associated with the All Progressives Congress in the state. Security agencies should sit up and take their statutory duties seriously.

“Accord abhors politics of bitterness, rancour and violence and will resist anti-democratic and reactionary forces that want to destabilize the state conscious of the fact that the people have rejected them, and now resort to wanton killing, harassment of our members, destruction of public properties, Imole Campaign and Accord’s billboards which will not give them any political advantage.


“The poor performance of the past APC regime in the state is still fresh in the minds of the people who suffered misrule, oppression and marginalization under its watch.

“For long, APC in the state is afraid and frozen over the general acceptance and growing influence of our great party in the state.

“Governor Ademola Adeleke is a man of the people, a servant-leader with abundant milk of human kindness. The good people of Osun State have never had it so good in government’s delivery of dividends of democracy in spite of deliberate acts of sabotage to frustrate its transformative leadership.

“The masses are with Governor Adeleke, accordingly they have remained in one accord in building a better, greater and prosperous Osun State.

“Accord stands with our action governor in moving Osun State forward. The people want continuity of Adeleke’s good work in the state and are ready to re-elect him on August 15, 2026.

“There is no competition in destiny. Osun people should take their collective destiny in their hands, vote for Accord and protect their votes as the price of liberty, sustainable development and good governance is eternal vigilance.

“It is time to jettison garrison politics and embrace issue-based politics that will deepen and strengthen the nation’s democracy.

“The Accord-led government in Osun State has done well and deserves a second term to implement its pro-people policies, programmes and projects that will bolster citizens’ well-being.

“Bloodshed, harassment of Accord members and destruction of billboards of a governor seeking re-election cannot add a single vote to the main opposition party in the state, instead it will drastically reduce the little sympathy votes it will manage to get from some of its members.

“The APC plot to rig the election is common knowledge in the state. It will fail woefully as the people who celebrated its defeat in 2022 as good riddance to bad administration will massively vote for Accord on August 15.

“Election is the beauty of democracy, let us deepen representative governance by making the upcoming governorship poll credible and transparent. Let us make the people’s votes count. Let us refuse to mortgage our collective destiny for a mess of electoral porridge that will be offered as vote-buying. Let us vote for Governor Adeleke we know and trust.”