₦airaland Forum

Cristiano Ronaldo's wait for a first major trophy since moving to Saudi Arabia goes on after his Al Nassr side was beaten 1-0 by Japan's Gamba Osaka in the final of the AFC Champions League Two on Saturday.

Osaka scored with its only shot on target of the game, through Deniz Hümmet's goal in the 29th minute. Despite dominating possession and shots at goal, Al Nassr failed to find an equalizer.

Playing in front of 26,000 fans at their King Saud University Stadium, Saudi side Al-Nassr were favourites to win Asian football's second-tier club competition - equivalent to Europe's Europa League.

But Deniz Hummet scored for the visitors against the run of play in Riyadh on Saturday, latching on to Issam Jebali's through ball to fire home in the 30th minute.

Gamba Osaka then held on in the second half to become the first Japanese club to win the competition, while preventing Al-Nassr becoming the first Saudi winners.

The defeat in Riyadh means Ronaldo has now lost four finals since joining Al Nassr in December 2022. His solitary final success came in the Arab Club Champions Cup, an unofficial competition, in 2023.

Ronaldo's latest setback came four days after a last-gasp own goal by goalkeeper Bento kept the Portugal forward waiting for his first piece of major silverware since joining Al-Nassr in January 2023.

That allowed Saudi Pro League title rivals Al-Hilal to claim a 1-1 draw and remain within two points of leaders Al-Nassr with one game left.

However, Ronaldo's side will become Saudi champions for the 11th time - and first since 2019 - if they win at home to Damac on Thursday.

Al-Hilal, the 21-time champions, play their final game at Al-Fayha at the same time on Thursday.

"We didn't get what we wanted here but there is one more final for us, the Saudi Pro League title, which is very important to us," said Al-Nassr's coach Jorge Jesus.

"We have five days to recover and prepare and there is no time for grieving. We have to get going again."

A candidate, Owoeye Daniella Jesudunsin, has emerged as the overall top scorer in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), scoring 372 marks.

The result was contained in a list of top-performing candidates announced by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board(JAMB) during the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions to Tertiary Institutions held in Abuja on Monday.

Owoeye, who sat for the examination in Ogun State but hails from Ekiti State, chose the University of Lagos (University of Lagos) to study Medicine and Surgery (MBBS).

The ICIR reports that 2,243,816 candidates registered for the 2026 UTME, representing a 10.5 per cent increase when compared with those who registered to write the examination in 2025.

Lagos State recorded the highest number of registrations for the 2026 edition with 381,814 candidates, followed by Ogun (137,156), Oyo (122,662), Kaduna (103,498), and the Federal Capital Territory (102,961).

Outside Nigeria, candidates also registered from Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Burkina Faso, the United Kingdom, Ghana, Gambia, and South Africa, though in small numbers.

The 2026 UTME was conducted across about 966 Computer-Based Test centres nationwide, with examinations split into four daily sessions to ease congestion and improve monitoring.

The board described the exercise as one of the most coordinated large-scale examinations in the country, involving extensive logistics, personnel deployment, and digital verification systems.

According to the released data, top candidates scored between 367 and 372, with their performance spread across various institutions of choice and states of origin.

The candidate with the highest score, Jesudunni, was followed by Enwere Kingsley Ikenna, who scored 370 and chose NILE University for Computer Science, and Bamisile Ayomide Emmanuel with 369, who opted for the Federal University of Technology, Akure (Federal University of Technology Akure) to study Software Engineering.


Below is the verified ranking of the top candidates, including their State of Exam, State of Origin, institution choices, and scores:


Owoeye Daniella Jesudunsin
State of Exam: Ogun
State of Origin: Ekiti
UTME Score: 372
Institution: UNILAG
Course: MBSS

Enwere Kingsley Ikenna
State of Exam: Lagos
State of Origin: Imo
UTME Score: 370
Institution: NILE
Course: Computer Science

Bamisile Ayomide Emmanuel
State of Exam: Ogun
State of Origin: Ondo
UTME Score: 369
Institution: FUTA
Course: Software Engineering

Olabiyisi Olanrewaju Oluwatimileyin
State of Exam: Not clear
State of Origin: Oyo
UTME Score: 368
Institution: Pan-Atlantic
Course: Mechatronics Engineering

Victor-Onyeka Daniel Ifeanyi
State of Exam: Rivers
State of Origin:Imo
UTME Score: 368
Institution: UNIPORT
Course: Electrical/Electronics Engineering

Osagiobare Daniel Osahenrumwen
State of Exam: Edo
State of Origin: Edo
UTME Score: 368
Institution: UNIBEN
Course: Mechanical Engineering

Ademiluyi Adebowale Anthony
State of Exam: Osun
State of Origin: Osun
UTME Score: 368
Institution: OAU
Course: Computer Engineering

Azuike Kenechukwu Anthony
State of Exam: Lagos
State of Origin: Anambra
UTME Score: 368
Institution: ABUAD
Course: Software Engineering

Offorkile Michael Okechukwu
Gender: Male
State of Exam: Anambra
State of Origin: Abia
Score: 367
Programme: Computer Science

Adebisi Eniola Sonari
Gender: Male
State of Exam: Osun
State of Origin: Ogun
Institution: Covenant University
Programme: Computer Science
Score: 367

Umukoro Gift Orhenevovwero
Gender: Male
State of Exam: Edo
State of Origin: Delta
Institution: University of Lagos (UNILAG)
Programme: Electrical/Electronics Engineering
Score: 367

Security agents on Thursday night arrested Bello Bodejo, an aspirant for the Taraba Central Senatorial seat on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital.

Bodejo, who is the president of the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, had earlier arrived in Jalingo aboard a private jet through the Danbaba Suntai Airport at about 1:20pm.

He was received by thousands of supporters drawn from the five local government areas that make up the Taraba Central senatorial zone.

Speaking to Daily Trust in a telephone interview, Bodejo’s personal aide, Umar, said the APC aspirant was arrested after visiting some security agencies’ offices alongside close political associates.

According to him, the arrest occurred at one of the security offices shortly after Bodejo addressed supporters at the APC state secretariat in Jalingo.

Umar said the associates who accompanied him were asked to leave immediately, while Bodejo was detained.

“At the moment, we do not know where he has been taken to,” he said.

“The same security personnel that escorted and protected him from Abuja to Jalingo were the ones who later arrested him.

“We are yet to be informed of the reason for his arrest, and our major concern now is that we do not know where he is being detained,” Umar added.

Before his arrest, Bodejo had told journalists at the APC secretariat that he purchased the senatorial nomination form to contest the election and would not to step down for any aspirant.

He insisted that he remained committed to the race and would not bow to pressure to withdraw his ambition.

“I am in this race to win, and nobody is going to force me to step down,” he declared.

The APC aspirant also disclosed that the consensus committee reportedly set up by Governor Agbu Kefas to engage aspirants across the three senatorial zones of the state had not contacted him.

“The consensus committee set up by the governor has not contacted me, and let me make it clear that I will not step down for anybody, no matter the pressure,” Bodejo said.

This is not the first time that he would be arrested. In 2024, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) arrested him over alleged creation of a vigilante group in Nasarawa State.

Bodejo was arrested at the Miyetti Allah Katal Houre’s Head Office at Tundun Maliya Cattle Market, Kilometre 22, Abuja-Keffi Expressway, Tundun-Wada, Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

The DSS operatives alongside some soldiers of the Nigerian Army, were said to have stormed the Miyetti Allah’s Head Office at about 3:40 pm, and they drove off after arresting Bodejo at the gate.

It is unclear if this latest arrest is political or has anything to do with security.

Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu on Friday officially assumed office as Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs following her elevation by President Bola Tinubu.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who previously served as Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, was elevated after the resignation of former minister, Yusuf Tuggar, who stepped down on March 30 to pursue his governorship ambition in Bauchi State ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement issued in Abuja, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the minister was received on arrival by senior directors of the ministry led by the Permanent Secretary, Dunoma Ahmed, alongside heads of agencies under the ministry.

The agencies represented included the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, the Technical Aid Corps, the Directorate of Technical Cooperation in Africa, and the Foreign Service Academy.

Welcoming the minister, Ahmed described her appointment as a reflection of her dedication and professionalism, expressing confidence in her ability to strengthen Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements and international partnerships.

He also assured her of the ministry’s support in advancing the Federal Government’s foreign policy priorities, including the protection of Nigerians abroad, promotion of peace and security, and attraction of foreign investment.

Goodwill messages were also delivered by heads of agencies under the ministry and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to Economic Community of West African States, Olawale Emmanuel Awe.

In her remarks, Odumegwu-Ojukwu thanked the ministry’s staff for the reception and pledged to consolidate the achievements of the ministry under the Tinubu administration.

The statement noted that she “reaffirmed her commitment to sustaining and consolidating the achievements of the Ministry under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

The minister also stressed the need for professionalism, institutional efficiency, innovation and unity in addressing global challenges and advancing Nigeria’s interests internationally.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been invited by the India government to attend the 2026 India-Africa Summit.

The Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Abhishek Singh, disclosed this yesterday, saying that the summit will serve as a platform to deepen trade, cultural and strategic relations between India and African countries.

The fourth edition of the summit has been scheduled to hold on May 31 in New Delhi, bringing together African leaders, ministers, business executives and cultural stakeholders, Singh announced during a media briefing.

He said both sides seek to strengthen cooperation after a decade-long pause in the summit process.

The High Commissioner disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had been invited by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the summit.

“We would be truly honoured to have the participation of His Excellency, the President,” he said.

“This will provide a platform to discuss several issues pertaining to security, political dialogue, economic and trade relations, developmental partnership, people-to-people exchanges and cultural exchanges,” the envoy said.

Singh described Nigeria as central to India’s engagement with Africa, citing its democratic credentials and economic influence on the continent.

“Nigeria is Africa’s largest democracy and one of the largest economies in Africa. We are looking at Nigeria as being emblematic of India’s Africa relationship,” he said.

According to him, the summit activities will begin with a senior officials’ meeting on May 28, followed by a foreign ministers’ meeting on May 29 before the main summit on May 31.

He added that business forums, music and dance festivals as well as Track Two diplomatic engagements would accompany the summit to broaden cooperation beyond government relations.

“One of them is the economic dialogue where we have invited Nigerian businessmen, industrialists and chambers to participate and redefine how they look at our engagement,” Singh said.

On economic relations, the envoy said bilateral trade between India and Nigeria currently stood between $8 billion and $9 billion annually, while both countries continued discussions on market access and trade barriers.

“We are doing fairly well, giving some room for improvement because there is immense potential,” he noted. Singh also stressed the growing influence of Nigerian culture in India, particularly Afrobeat music.

“The Afrobeats are becoming increasingly popular in India and names like Wizkid and Davido are not names which are popular only in Nigeria, but they are global icons and very popular in India as well,” he added.

He further highlighted India’s interest in expanding collaboration with Nigeria in information and communications technology, digital infrastructure and education.

“India is globally known to be a very strong power of information technology and ICT, and we look forward to more and more collaborations with partner countries like Nigeria in this sector,” the High Commissioner said.

The envoy noted that the last time the forum held was in 2015, and it is returning at a time when both India and Africa had witnessed significant political and economic transformation.

“As I mentioned, this is the fourth edition of the India-Africa Forum Summit and it is happening after a hiatus of 10 years,” Singh stated.This came as India indicated interest to support Nigeria’s textile sector revival and manufacturing growth.

The Indian High Commissioner disclosed this yesterday at the Textile Meet/B2B Nigeria–India engagement held at the premises of the High commission.

Singh said both countries possessed complementary strengths capable of transforming the textile sector into a flagship area of economic cooperation through technology transfer, investment partnerships, skills development and deeper bilateral trade cooperation.

Singh noted that despite longstanding economic ties between both countries, textile trade remained below its full potential, stressing that India was ready to support Nigeria’s textile revival agenda through investments across the value chain.

“Nigeria’s textile revival programme offers opportunities for Indian firms to establish ginning,

spinning and processing facilities in Nigeria’s cotton belts such as Katsina and Zamfara,” he said.

According to him, India could also provide “technology and skill transfer with regard to modern looms, digital printing and dyeing technology,”

while Indian machinery manufacturers could supply equipment backed by training and buy-back arrangements.

The envoy disclosed that India exported textiles and apparel worth $37.75 billion in 2024–25, supplying more than 200 global markets and accounting for 4.1 per cent of global textile trade.

He explained that Indian exports to Nigeria currently include cotton fabrics, polyester-viscose blends, carpets, traditional wear fabrics, affordable garments and textile machinery.

Singh, however, observed that Indian textile products still faced limited access to Nigeria’s market due to import restrictions, high logistics costs, forex shortages and competition from cheaper Asian suppliers.

“Statistics show that Nigeria’s total textile export in 2024 was at 25.69 million dollars, of which India’s share is merely five per cent,” he said.

The High Commissioner said India was also interested in collaborating with Nigeria’s fashion industry, which he valued at over 4.7 billion dollars.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted a former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman on a 12-count charge of money laundering in which he is accused of diverting about N33.8billion public funds.

Justice James Omotosho, in a judgement on Thursday, held that the prosecuting agency, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) effectively prove its case against Mamman beyond reasonable doubt as required by law.

Justice Omotosho came down hard on Mamman for living large when he was Minister at the expense of Nigerians, noting that his action contributed to the country’s inability to overcome its power supply challenge. advertisement The judge said,

“The prosecution has established that, at least, N22 billion naira was siphoned by the defendant and his cronies.”

He held that Mamman’s conduct of diverting funds meant for other purposes such as the Zungeru and Mambila Hydroelectric Power Project to his own use was quite unfortunate.

Justice Omotosho said, “The sheer greed of the defendant and his comrades in crime is nothing but a downright shameful thing.

“For defendant, who held a critical position such as Ministry of Power, rather than being concerned with creating a legacy of solving the epileptic power supply in the country, the defendant began siphoning and converting monies for serious projects into private pockets.

“The defendant was living large at the expense of ordinary Nigerians who had suffered from the consequence of his malfeasance. Little wonder that Nigeria has remained in darkness now.

“I must say the defendant was ingenious in trying to hide his involvement by using proxy companies and accomplices to pick the funds for him.

“However, the diligent investigation of the prosecution was able to link him to the said funds.

“This court must salute the detailed nature of the investigation carried out in this matter and for presenting a coherent and cogent case against the defendant.

“The defendant on the other hand is condemned for greedily converting public funds to his own use. In the final analysis, the prosecution has established the 12-count charge against the defendant beyond reasonable doubt.

“Consequently, he is hereby convicted as charged,” the judge held.

Justice Omotosho suspended the sentencing aspect of the judgment till May 13 because, as against the standard practice, the ex-minister stayed away from Thursday’s court season.

His lawyer, Mohammed Ahmed told the court that he had no access to his client since Tuesday when the notice of the judgement got to him.

Ahmed said one of the associates of the convict informed him that the former minister is sick, which informed why he was absent in court.

Lawyer to the prosecution, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN) faulted Ahmed’s claiming, noting that defence lawyer failed to provide evidence to support his claim that the convict was ill.

Oyedepo then proceeded to pray the court to issue a bench warrant for the ex- minister’s arrest. advertisement Before issuing the arrest warrant.

Justice Omotosho referenced news items indicating that the defendant had been actively involved in political activities, having purchased a form to contest the governorship election in Taraba State.

The judge ordered the state to search for the convict, arrest him and produce him in court on May 13 for sentencing, having been convicted of the offenses for which he was charged.

Mamman was arrested in 2021, about four months after he was removed from office by ex-President Muhammadu Buhari.

The prosecution called 17 witnesses, who testified before the court and tendered 43 exhibits before closing its case.

Mamman was among others, accused of conspiring with staff members of the Ministry of Power to divert about ₦22bn that was meant for the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro Electric Power projects.

The anti-graft agency said its investigations revealed that Mamman and others used the funds to acquire choice assets, both within and outside the country.

Two allies of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who are also members of the Rainbow Coalition, have been tipped to contest the Rivers State governorship election in 2027.

Alabo Dakorinama George-Kelly is expected to run on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), while the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Kingsley Chinda, is expected to contest on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

It was gathered that the duo were advised by leaders of the Rainbow Coalition to purchase the governorship forms of the two parties.

The reported declaration by George-Kelly was said to have triggered excitement among some stakeholders in Rivers State.

Sources who spoke with Vanguard said the stakeholders were pleased that George-Kelly, who is from the Kalabari Ijaw axis of the state, had joined the governorship race.

George-Kelly is regarded as a political loyalist of Wike and a member of the coalition. His choice, if confirmed, would align with calls in some quarters that an Ijaw candidate should succeed Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

George-Kelly contested the PDP governorship primary in 2022 and came second behind Fubara.

He was later appointed Director-General of the Border Communities Development Agency by President Bola Tinubu.

Although there was no official confirmation as of press time, a source within the Rainbow Coalition claimed George-Kelly had purchased the APC nomination and expression of interest forms.

The source said, “Among all the coalition members, George-Kelly is the only one that has purchased the APC forms and we know that he would not have done so without the consent of the Minister.

“This is a sign that he has the blessings of the coalition leader and will eventually emerge as the candidate of the APC for the election.”



CHINDA REPORT CAUSED CONCERN

The source added that the coalition was monitoring public reactions to both George-Kelly and Chinda.

He said, “This is where this game gets interesting. The leader of the coalition is a political sage and master strategist. When the report of Chinda emerged, he weighed the reaction of members of the public.

“That report created some storm even in the coalition because Chinda hails from Obio-Akpor, and some people read the development as selfish. Apart from that, the name did not resonate with many stakeholders in the state.”

According to the source, the reported entrance of George-Kelly into the race calmed tension among stakeholders.

“But immediately the report of George-Kelly on APC platform broke out, there was jubilation across the state. The report calmed all nerves because the name resonated among all the stakeholders especially the youths.

“People are happy that George-Kelly has joined the governorship race. We believe that Wike is receiving reports about the duo and analysing their personalities,” the source said.

The source said the coalition’s aim was to present a loyal candidate who would appeal to stakeholders across the state, including those aligned with Fubara.

He added, “One thing is clear. The objective is to present a loyal candidate that will appeal to all stakeholders including those who are standing with Governor Fubara.

“But George-Kelly despite hailing from the riverine Ijaw area of the state, seems to have the expected mass appeal. It is not about ethnicity, it is more about personality.

"We know that the leader of the coalition knows what he is doing. One thing is sure, the coalition will produce the candidates for the APC and the PDP in the state and the leader will engage in consultations to select one of them.”



FUBARA’s SECOND TERM BID ADVANCES

Meanwhile, strong indications have emerged that Siminalayi Fubara, the incumbent governor of Rivers State, will seek a second term in office, despite reported political headwinds linked to his estranged mentor, Wike.

Per Guardian, the governor’s re-election ambition received a significant boost recently as stakeholders of the APC in Rivers State, alongside other political actors, purchased and donated his Nomination and Expression of Interest forms.

The move was announced by a delegation led by Awaji-Inombek Abiante, who represents the Andoni/Opobo-Nkoro federal constituency.

He described the gesture as a collective decision by elders and political leaders across the state, driven by what they termed the overriding interest of the people .

According to Abiante, the development reflects a well-established democratic practice in which stakeholders mobilise support for preferred candidates, noting that the action underscores growing confidence in Fubara’s leadership.
He said:

[b]“This is not new. Even at the national level, stakeholders have procured nomination forms for candidates. It is part of our democratic culture."

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a 30 per cent reduction in charges airlines owe aviation agencies, in a move aimed at easing mounting financial pressure in the sector.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed this on Thursday during a meeting with journalists, saying the approval was communicated during the meeting with airline operators.

“So this evening, Mr President just communicated to us through the Chief of Staff, whilst we were at the meeting, that he’s granting a 30 per cent discount to all airlines,” Mr Keyamo said.

According to him, the relief applies to debts owed by airlines to key aviation agencies, including the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).

He explained that the measure is intended to help airlines manage outstanding obligations such as parking fees, navigational charges and other operational costs.

The development comes amid growing concerns in the aviation sector following a sharp increase in the price of Jet A1 fuel, which operators say has significantly raised flight costs.

PREMIUM TIMES had earlier reported that airlines under the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) have warned that the surge in fuel prices could force them to either increase ticket fares or suspend operations if urgent interventions are not implemented.

Ivan Toney has launched a sensational attack on the integrity of the Saudi Pro League, suggesting that officials are biased toward Cristiano Ronaldo and Al-Nassr.

The England international was left fuming after his Al-Ahli side were held to a 1-1 draw by Al-Fayha, a result that severely dents their title aspirations.

TONEY QUESTIONS REFEREEING INTEGRITY

The controversy erupted following Al-Ahli’s 1-1 draw against Al-Fayha on Wednesday, a match in which Toney scored his 27th goal of a prolific campaign.

However, the striker was more interested in discussing "clear as day" penalties that he believes were ignored by the officiating crew.

The result leaves Al-Ahli third, trailing Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr by four points, with the league leaders also holding a game in hand.

"I think the very big talking point was the two penalties, it is as clear as day," Toney said in a post-match interview. "I don’t know what more you want him to do, if you pick the ball up with two hands are you going to give a penalty or not?

When we tried to talk to the referee, he told us to 'focus on the AFC [Champions League]'. How can the referee say this? We are talking about now and he is saying to focus on the AFC."

Asked about his team's title chances, Toney said:

"We move on, we do what we can do, hopefully we get some fair ones. If we have good referees, we play how we normally play and decisions go our way, we have a good chance. When it is like this, it's always going to be tough."

ACCUSATIONS OF BIAS

The situation took a darker turn when Toney was asked who would benefit from these questionable calls. The former Brentford man laughed and replied: "We know who, who are we chasing?"

This was clearly a direct reference to Al-Nassr and potentially to their talisman, Ronaldo. Toney further alleged that the referees seemed to have their minds elsewhere during the "crunch time" of the title race.

"If you want me to go deeper, I can go deeper, it might get me into trouble but I am a man that says it how it is. There are clear talking points with the referee, but his mind is elsewhere. Throughout the season, it was a clear penalty but now we get to the crunch time and they change it," Toney added.

He later took to social media to share clips of the incidents, stating:

"It's actually crazy how you can miss things like this in crucial moments or chose to turn a blind eye. It's clear what is being influenced here."



GALENO CALLS OUT LACK OF RESPECT

Toney was not the only Al-Ahli star to voice his frustration. Team-mate Galeno went even further, seemingly alleging that the league is actively trying to gift silverware to Ronaldo.

In a scathing social media post, Galeno suggested that the competitive fairness of the league had been completely compromised in favour of one individual.

"Hand over the trophy, that's what they want, they want to knock us out of the championship by any means necessary, they want to hand the trophy to one person, a total lack of respect for our club," Galeno wrote, per the Daily Mail.



Al-AHLI DEMAND REFEREE RECORDINGS

Backing their stars, Al-Ahli released a formal statement expressing "deep dissatisfaction" and demanding that the league release the audio recordings of the VAR communications.

The club’s hierarchy is seeking explanations for why their players were allegedly told to ignore the domestic game and focus on continental competition while crucial decisions were being made on the pitch.

"Al Ahli club company expresses its deep dissatisfaction with the refereeing errors that affected today's match of the first football team against Al Fayha in round 29 of the Saudi Roshn League," the club stated.

"The referee's decisions had a direct impact on the flow of the game and its final outcome, which in turn affected the team's position in the title race. Such errors raise legitimate concerns regarding the referee selection process and the criteria applied, particularly given the high technical and competitive level of the Saudi Roshn League."


The players' public outbursts have highlighted a growing tension in the Saudi Pro League as the campaign reaches its final stages and the pressure on Al-Nassr to secure their first title of the Ronaldo era intensifies.

Al Nassr have not won the Saudi Pro League title since the 2018-19 season. They are two points clear of second-place Al Hilal and play at Al Okhdood on Saturday.

Nigeria has made further progress in its diplomatic accreditation, as 33 of the 65 ambassadors named by President Bola Tinubu have secured agrément from host countries, while 32 await approval.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa told The PUNCH the cleared envoy count has now reached 33.

“Thirty-three ambassadors have now secured agréments from host countries,” Ebienfa said.

He added that the envoys would proceed to their respective missions after completing their induction programme, which commenced on Monday and is scheduled to end today (Wednesday).

Ebienfa said, “After the induction, those who have been accepted will proceed to their Missions”.

The ministry had earlier stated that over 25 ambassadors had secured agrément as of April 17.

Agrément refers to the formal consent granted by receiving countries following due diligence on nominated diplomats.

On Monday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs commenced the induction programme for the newly appointed envoys.

In her remarks at the opening session of the induction course for career and non-career ambassadors and high commissioners-designate in Abuja, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, urged the envoys to project a positive image of Nigeria while navigating limited resources and complex global realities.

She emphasised the critical role of diplomats in shaping Nigeria’s international perception and advancing national interests.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that while Nigeria faces numerous challenges, including insecurity, resource mobilisation and infrastructure deficits, ambassadors must not conceal these realities but instead draw constructive international attention to them.

She said, “Locally, our nation faces genuine challenges of insecurity, resource mobilisation, and infrastructure development.

“Your task is not to hide these realities but to secure international attention and partnership by amplifying the true picture that, despite these obstacles, this government’s commitment to resolving them remains unparalleled and consistent.”

Meanwhile, one of the 65 ambassador-designates, Mohammed Mahmud Lele, Nigeria’s appointed career diplomat to Algeria, died on April 23.

Concerns have also emerged that some nominees may face prolonged delays or may not receive agrément due to the late timing of their appointments.

Although President Tinubu assumed office in 2023, delays in appointing ambassadors left several key diplomatic positions vacant, with missions largely managed by chargés d’affaires.

To address the gap, the Presidency forwarded a list of 65 nominees to the National Assembly in late 2025. While they were screened in December, the delay has placed some nominees at a disadvantage with host countries due to limited processing time.

A former vice presidential candidate of the Labour Party in 2023, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has dismissed the possibility of a unified opposition candidate for the 2027 presidential election, describing the idea as impossible.

Baba-Ahmed made the remarks on Tuesday while speaking as a guest on Channels Television’s Politics Today.

He was reacting to the Ibadan Declaration by an opposition coalition, which agreed to field a single candidate to challenge President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

According to him, the Ibadan meeting was not attended by all opposition parties, but only the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Baba-Ahmed, who was the vice presidential candidate alongside Peter Obi under the Labour Party in 2023, described the idea of a single opposition candidate in 2027 as “a lie.”

“I think it is a lie (unified opposition candidate). There is no way they will agree; it is not possible. It is only two parties, PDP and ADC. Now the faction of PDP who went there are the runners-up to Wike,” Baba-Ahmed said.

“Two parties coming to say that they are the entire opposition in Ibadan doesn’t make sense to me and I think it should not even be a topic for you and I to dwell upon.”

Pharmacists under the aegis of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) have strongly advised the federal government on the need to establish a Presidential Committee to develop a clear roadmap and strengthen regulatory institutions for sustainable local production in the nation’s pharmaceutical sector.

ACPN Chairman, Ambrose Ezeh, who lauded government’s recent expansion of the list of prohibited imported drugs in the country, said that a Presidential Committee would consolidate the benefits of the policy, ensure the enforcement of the National Drug Distribution Guidelines, and strengthen laws against counterfeit drugs.

According to Ezeh, the decision to protect the local industry represents a critical opportunity to advance national self-sufficiency in healthcare, stressing that timely and effective execution would ultimately benefit Nigerians through improved access to safe, affordable medicines.

ACPN described the recent prohibition as a strategic step toward strengthening local pharmaceutical manufacturing and conserving foreign exchange.

The body called for the expansion of the pool of skilled professionals in the industry through pharmaceutical education and training for qualitative clinical, hospital and community practice.

It said the updated prohibition schedule covering drugs under HS Codes 3003.10.00.00 through 3004.90.00 signals renewed commitment to protecting domestic industry players.

The association specifically highlighted the ban on the importation of commonly used medicines such as paracetamol tablets and syrups, metronidazole, clotrimazole, chloroquine, multivitamins, aspirin and folic acid, as well as topical preparations like penicillin and gentamycin ointments.

It described the development as a “step in the right direction” which would boost investor confidence in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector.

‘’The policy effectively places the responsibility for meeting the country’s primary healthcare drug needs on local manufacturers, aligning with national economic priorities.

It also welcomed the inclusion of cocoa derivatives and sugar products on the prohibition list.

“The ACPN commends the Federal Government on the release of an update schedule of prohibited trade items, which is geared towards protecting the local manufacturing industry and managing scarce forex.

“This extensive list of prohibited drugs under HS Codes 3003.10.00.00 through 3004.90.00 brings hope to genuine investors in our sector. Specifically, the banning of the importation of drugs like paracetamol tablets and syrups, metronidazole, clotrimazole and chloroquine, multivitamin caps, aspirin, folic acid, as well as ointments like penicillin and gentamycin is certainly a step in the right direction.

“Critically, this development puts the mandate for the nation’s Primary Healthcare drug needs on the local pharmaceutical industry, which is in the national interest.’’

ACPN also noted with delight that the cocoa industry is protected, as cocoa butter, powder, and cakes, as well as chocolate preparations in blocks or bars exceeding 2kg, are listed as prohibited items.

The prohibition list covers cane or beet sugar in retail packs and chemical pure sucrose containing added flavouring and colouring.”

Ezeh expressed optimism that the government would enforce the new regulations diligently to prevent unnecessary seizures or penalties affecting legitimate operators. It added that the policy, when combined with reduced import duties on essential inputs, could enhance drug affordability and accessibility if properly implemented.

“We do anticipate and believe that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) will diligently enforce regulations in the pharmaceutical sector to avoid unwarranted seizures of products or penalties given this development.

The updated prohibition list, when juxtaposed with a drop-in duty on drugs, portends a good omen if well executed, as it promotes affordability and accessibility to drugs if well enforced,” he said.

ACPN also noted that local drug production currently accounts for just over 38 percent of national demand, far below the 70 percent target set in the National Drug Policy 2021.

It attributed this gap partly to continued dependence on imports, especially from China and India, which it said accounts for about 65 percent of the drug supply in the country.

“This development is significant because the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) and major stakeholders recently enjoined the federal government to do more to boost the increase in local manufacture of drugs.

Local production in drugs currently stands at slightly over 38 percent with waivers in import duty on raw materials and equipment to scale up the gains.”[/b]

The ACPN argued that strengthening local manufacturing would reduce pressure on foreign exchange, improve medicine security by shortening supply chains, and enhance regulatory oversight by agencies.

It further stated that increased domestic production would help curb the circulation of counterfeit medicines, create employment opportunities, and position Nigeria as a leading pharmaceutical hub in West Africa, where it already accounts for about 60 percent of local drug manufacturers in the ECOWAS region.

“Boosting local drug manufacturing is a big deal for the Nigerian economy as it will result in drop and reliance on imports, as well as save forex. At about 65 per cent imports of drugs from China and India in particular, we continue to fail in our bid to meet the target of 70 per cent local production of our essential drugs as prescribed in the National Drug Policy 2021.

“Local manufacture will ease forex demands due to the 200 per cent rise in imported drug costs. This is made worse by the importation of drugs that the local industry has the capacity to manufacture.

It further posited that it will ensure medicine security as local manufacturer of drugs will shorten the supply chains and prevent out-of-stock syndrome if well nourished.

“Quality assurance will be guaranteed as the PCN and NAFDAC can regulate and control manufacturing entities at source, a phenomenon that reduces huge costs of inspectorate activities abroad.

Local manufacture of drugs also reduces our vulnerability to global supply disruptions, as we witnessed at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria.

“Local manufacturing, when backed up by legislative action, will give more room to PCN and NAFDAC to ensure better oversight and therefore reduce the tendency to distribute fake and counterfeit drugs in Nigeria.”

The Federal Government has reaffirmed that the New Abeokuta 330/132 kV Transmission Substation at Toolu, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State, is progressing on schedule and will be delivered and commissioned by December 2026.

The assurance follows the recent inspection of the project site by the management team of FGN Power Company Limited, led by Managing Director/CEO Mr. Kenny Anuwe, accompanied by Chief Technical Officer Mr. Ebenezer Fapohunda and Chief Financial Officer Hon. Kola Olabiyi.

The Abeokuta substation is a flagship project under Phase 1, Batch 1 of the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), a partnership between the Federal Government of Nigeria and Siemens Energy of Germany to modernize and expand Nigeria’s power transmission capacity.

The project covers the engineering, procurement, and construction of five key substations nationwide — Abeokuta, Ayede-Ibadan, Offa, Onitsha, and Sokoto — with a combined capacity of 986MW.


The New Abeokuta Substation alone will inject 480MW into the national grid and upgrade transmission voltage from 132kV to 330kV.

Speaking after the inspection, Mr. Anuwe stated that the project was “progressing according to standard and remains on course for completion before the end of 2026”.

He disclosed that civil works will be completed between June and July 2026, after which electrical installations will commence ahead of commissioning in December.

Project Director, Siemens Energy, Mr. Elie Akiki, also confirmed that “work at the Abeokuta site was progressing as planned,” expressing confidence that the substation would be delivered and commissioned within the agreed timeline.

The Federal Executive Council had in December 2024 approved the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction contract for Phase 1, Batch 1 of the PPI, with civil works mobilisation and concurrent equipment manufacturing now finalised across all five locations.

Upon completion, the new facility will complement existing infrastructure and significantly improve electricity supply to Abeokuta and surrounding communities, while stimulating socio-economic growth across Ogun State and the South-West region.

It will provide more bulk power for Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company to serve homes, businesses, and industries.

Mr. Anuwe emphasized: “Electricity is the lifeblood of our economy, and the mandate from Mr. President is clear — ensure this project is delivered within 2026 so Nigerians can begin to feel the impact of ongoing reforms in the power sector”.

The PPI has already delivered results under its Pilot Phase, with Siemens Energy successfully delivering and commissioning 10 units of 132/33kV mobile substations and 10 power transformers nationwide, adding 984MW of transmission capacity to the grid.

President Tinubu, who signed the accelerated PPI agreement with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz at COP28 in Dubai in December 2023, has consistently prioritized power sector reform under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The Abeokuta substation represents a tangible deliverable in the administration’s commitment to achieving stable, reliable, and expanded electricity supply for all Nigerians.

With civil works set for completion by July 2026, the project will move into the electrical installation and testing phase from August to November 2026, ahead of final commissioning in December 2026.

The Federal Government commends Siemens Energy, FGN Power Company, and all stakeholders for maintaining momentum and urges contractors to sustain progress to meet delivery timelines. Two of the five substations under Batch 1 are targeted for completion by the end of 2026.

TCN begins upgrades of Alaoji–Onitsha transmission Line to Boost South East Power

https://www.nairaland.com/8649361/tcn-begins-upgrade-138km-alaojionitsha

The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese and Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam, Anambra State, Most Rev. Dr Matthew Kukah, has urged Nigerians to stop addressing him as a Hausa man.

Kukah added that he is a typical Nigerian, but not a Hausa man by origin, as he is often addressed wherever he goes.

He stated this while speaking at the 16th convocation ceremony of the university, held at the institution’s auditorium on Saturday.

He charged the graduating students to be of good character to their parents, the university community, Anambra State, the South-East region, and Nigeria as a whole.

The new Chancellor commended the state government for its significant investment in education, adding that statistically, “Anambra is performing well in education among the 36 states.”

He said, “I am a typical Nigerian from Anchuna, Ikulu Chiefdom in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State, but not a Hausa man by origin. Nigerians should stop addressing me as a Hausa person.

“As the new Chancellor of this institution, we will not only strive to achieve the university’s goals, but surpass them.”

He appreciated the state governor, Chukwuma Soludo, for appointing him as the Chancellor of the university.

He was formally installed as Chancellor of the varsity by the governor during the ceremony.

Also speaking, the Anambra State governor expressed excitement while decorating Kukah as the new Chancellor of the university, expressing confidence that his wisdom, experience, and moral leadership will further strengthen the vision and standing of the institution.

Soludo said, “It was a great honour to be present at the 16th Convocation Ceremony of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University as a visitor to this great institution.

“The ceremony was a celebration of excellence, hard work, and the power of quality education. It was also a reminder of the critical role universities play in training skilled manpower, shaping character, advancing knowledge, and preparing young people to contribute meaningfully to society.

“I was particularly delighted to decorate the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Matthew Hassan Kukah, as the new Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University.

“I am confident that his wisdom, experience, and moral leadership will further strengthen the vision and standing of the university.

“In recognition of exceptional academic achievement, I announced a ₦4 million cash gift to Somtochukwu Augustus Ume of the Economics Department, who emerged as the overall best graduating student at COOU’s 16th Convocation with an outstanding CGPA of 4.85 out of 5.0.

“I also offered scholarships to 37 first-class graduates of the university’s 16th Convocation to support their postgraduate studies up to the highest level at any public university of their choice.” He charged the university to remain focused on producing problem-solvers rather than mere enumerators.

“Our institutions of higher learning must go beyond awarding certificates; they must raise innovative, solution-driven, and globally competitive graduates who can respond to the challenges of our time.

“To the graduands, I urged them to seize the moment and emerge as beacons of hope, disruptive thinkers, and agents of change in society. The future belongs to those who are prepared to lead with courage, creativity, and purpose,” he added.

Lagos State Government has signed a landmark Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with three electricity generation companies in a strategic move to significantly boost energy supply and strengthen the state’s power infrastructure.

The agreement, signed on Sunday at Lagos House, Marina, was witnessed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, while the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Abiodun Ogunleye, signed on behalf of the state government.

The partner firms—Mainland Power Limited, Akute Independent Power Plant and Fenchurch Power Limited are among the independent power producers operating within the state, with Fenchurch emerging as a new entrant in the partnership.

Speaking after the signing, Sanwo-Olu described the agreement as a people-focused initiative aimed at improving quality of life through reliable power supply. He urged all parties to uphold the terms of the deal with professionalism and commitment.

“This agreement is about the people and how easily we can solve problems. Let’s keep promises from both sides. When people benefit, life becomes easier. This marks the beginning of the reforms we are seeing in the energy sector,” the governor said.

Ogunleye explained that the agreement is designed to ramp up generation capacity and revive dormant assets without placing additional financial strain on the state.

According to him, the three firms currently generate about 60 megawatts (MW), with projections to scale up to between 200MW and 400MW within the next two to three years.

He disclosed that Mainland Power Limited, which operates the Ikeja GRA plant, has an installed capacity of 8.8MW and a contracted capacity of 5.8MW, supplying electricity to areas from Ikeja to Oshodi.

Key beneficiaries include Lagos State University Teaching Hospital and the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency, among other critical facilities.

The commissioner added that the Akute Independent Power Plant, now under Fenchurch Power Limited has a contracted capacity of 26MW and is being repositioned as a major energy hub.

Once dormant for about five years, the facility is undergoing rehabilitation and upgrade to supply power to surrounding communities, including the Adiyan Water Works.

On the Island corridor, Viathan Engineering, operators of the Island Power Limited/Peninsula Integrated Power Project, currently manage a combined installed capacity of 21MW—6MW in Lekki and 15MW in Marina.

The project is expected to power vital public infrastructure, including Lagos House, the deputy governor’s residence, and major health institutions such as Lagos Island General Hospital.

The participating firms commended the Sanwo-Olu administration for creating an enabling environment for infrastructure development, noting that the initiative sends a strong signal to investors about Lagos’ readiness to deepen its energy market and attract sustainable investments.

The Federal Government, through the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), has flagged off a 2-megawatt solar hybrid power project worth N3.8 billion at Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology (ADUSTECH), Wudil, Kano state.

The project, under the Renewed Hope Solarisation Programme, includes the commissioning of 200 solar-powered streetlights within the university.

The ceremony was led by ECN Director-General Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi and Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Kingsley Tochukwu-Udeh, SAN.

Dr. Abdullahi said the contract, awarded to Safiatu Global Resources Limited, has a three-month completion deadline with no provision for cost variation.

The project aims to cut the university’s N22.4 million monthly electricity bill and provide sustainable power.

Energy audits showed ADUSTECH, with 24,339 students and staff plus 5,200 hostel bed spaces, has an energy demand of 12.3MW–16.4MW against a connected load of only 8.26MW. Its diesel backup capacity is just 2.07 MVA.

“This energy reality is unacceptable, and it is what we are here to begin addressing,” Abdullahi said.

He noted that while ECN’s technical recommendation for ADUSTECH is a 7MW solar mini-grid, the 2MW Phase 1 system flagged off is “a foundation designed for expansion.”

The Phase 1 system will include a Battery Energy Storage System and be installed in decentralised clusters.

Abdullahi added that the Wudil groundbreaking follows similar projects at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital and Bayero University Kano, as part of a national programme targeting hospitals and tertiary institutions in all 36 states and the FCT.

Minister Tochukwu-Udeh described the project as “strategic national policy, not philanthropy,” to support innovations addressing Nigeria’s challenges.

ADUSTECH Vice-Chancellor Prof. Musa Tukur-Yakasai called it “a bold step toward sustainable energy, innovation, and academic excellence.”

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving N68 billion operational supports for the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant (MEPP).

The emergency plant project, initiated in 2021 as a presidential intervention, was a critical response to the prolonged power outage caused by insurgents who vandalised power infrastructure, leaving the state without electricity for nearly two years.

In a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dauda Iliya, Zulum said the swift intervention by the Federal Government is not only timely but will also mitigate security challenges and improve the economic livelihoods of the people of Borno State.

“On behalf of the government and people of Borno State, I wish to most profoundly appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) for approving N2 billion monthly OPEX intervention funding from March 2026 to December 2028, totalling N68 billion to bridge the existing funding gap in the operations of the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant (MEPP),” Zulum stated.

He noted that the MEPP intervention by the Federal Government through the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has been pivotal in restoring power supply to Borno State.

Governor Zulum added that the power plant, commissioned in 2021 and upgraded to 50MW in December 2023, has catalysed socio-economic development, created employment opportunities, and supported small and medium enterprises across the state.

He added that improved electricity supply has enhanced security by strengthening economic resilience and reducing vulnerabilities associated with insurgency and criminal activities.

The governor further stated that the presidential approval would ensure a sustainable power supply to Maiduguri and the surrounding areas, reinforcing the state’s resilience.

Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working with the Federal Government to promote sustainable development in the energy sector and ensure lasting peace and stability in the state.

The wife of President Bola Tinubu, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday ianugurated the newly completed Lodge Road in the Government Reserved Area of Nasarawa Local Government Area of Kano State and flagged off the construction of Sarkin Yaki Road in the Sabon Gari area of Fagge Local Government Area.

Mrs Tinubu, who was in the state to inaugurate the Energise Commercialisation Now initiative, was accompanied by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, his wife, and other top government officials and dignitaries.

According to a statement issued on Friday by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mustapha Muhammad, the projects are part of efforts to improve infrastructure and enhance economic activities in the state.

Speaking at the event, the First Lady emphasised the importance of road infrastructure in driving development.

“Quality roads remain essential for easier movement of people and goods, improved security access, and stronger state and national economies,” she said.

She also called for sustained collaboration among the federal, state and local governments to ensure that more communities benefit from impactful projects.

In his remarks, Yusuf described the visit as a testament to the partnership required to achieve development goals, noting that his administration remained committed to supporting initiatives that promote growth and modernisation.

He added that the projects would boost transportation, create business opportunities and contribute to urban renewal in Kano metropolis.

The event was attended by senior government officials, traditional leaders and political stakeholders, including the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, members of the National Assembly and representatives of North-West governors.

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has declared that Nigeria is in capable hands under President Bola Tinubu, calling for his re-election to consolidate ongoing reforms and development efforts.

Fubara made the call on Thursday while declaring open the meeting of the Southern Traditional Rulers Council in Port Harcourt on Thursday, where monarchs from the 17 southern states converged to deliberate on issues of unity, security, and economic development.

The governor said the current administration is making notable progress in reviving the economy and delivering critical infrastructure, including coastal road projects, despite existing challenges.

He stressed that continuity in leadership is necessary, noting that “it is not ideal to change the goalposts in the middle of the game.”

Governor Fubara urged stakeholders across the region to work collectively toward shared aspirations, insisting that the South must remain united to achieve sustainable development.

He added that the gathering of monarchs underscored the peaceful disposition of Rivers State and its readiness to host high-profile national engagements.

Earlier, the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, who chairs the Southern Traditional Rulers Council, said the meeting was convened to foster peace and strengthen unity across the region.

He noted that the council reflects Nigeria’s diversity, with over 400 dialects spoken across the southern states, describing the gathering as a demonstration of unity in diversity.

According to him, the Port Harcourt meeting is the fourth in the series, following earlier sessions held in Imo, Ogun, and Lagos states.

He said the forum provides an opportunity for traditional rulers to discuss shared values and common interests that bind the people together.

The monarch added that the council would also deliberate on ways to support the current administration in addressing security and economic challenges, emphasising that participation in the meeting is voluntary but crucial for repositioning the region and the country at large.

The meeting is attended by eminent traditional rulers across the South-South, South-East, and South-West, including the co-chairman of the council, the Obi of Obinugwu, Eze Cletus Illomuanya, and the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

The federal government has moved to reduce transportation costs by accelerating the adoption of compressed natural gas (CNG) as an alternative to petrol, which is sold at N380 per litre, compared to over N1,200 per litre for fuel.

The initiative, led by the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (Pi-CNG), is part of efforts to lower transport costs for millions of low-income operators across Nigeria .


CREDIT SCHEME FOR TRANSPORT WORKERS

To achieve its objective, Pi-CNG has partnered with financial institutions to expand access to affordable credit for vehicle conversion to CNG.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Abuja on Wednesday, April 22, Ismaeel Ahmed, the Chief Executive Officer of the initiative, said affordability remains the biggest obstacle to CNG uptake.

The initiative includes a partnership with the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative and Electric Vehicles, Moniepoint Microfinance Bank Limited, Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation, and National Credit Guarantee Company Limited.

Ahmed said the programme is designed to eliminate the upfront cost barrier that has slowed the adoption of alternative energy vehicles.

He said: “This is a very significant partnership. The barrier is the cost of the conversion kit and installation.

“We are reducing that barrier. The kits are being supplied at cost, with no profit margin, because the goal is mass adoption.”


HOW WILL THE CNG CREDIT UP FRONT?

Under the new framework, motorists will be able to spread the cost of CNG conversion o ver several months through structured credit facilities, instead of paying up front.

Ahmed said repayment flexibility would vary depending on borrowers’ capacity.

He said: “Instead of paying, for example, N100,000 upfront, you can now spread it over one month, six months or shorter periods depending on agreement. “That flexibility makes adoption easier for everyday Nigerians.”

He added that the shift to CNG is expected to significantly reduce transport expenses for commercial operators such as tricycle and taxi drivers.

According to him, a typical keke rider could cut fuel expenses by 60 to 70%, while maintenance costs could also fall sharply.

Ahmed said: “If a rider spends about N50,000 weekly on petrol and maintenance, CNG could reduce that drastically. Fuel costs drop significantly, and maintenance reduces from weekly to monthly spending.”

Also, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation, Uzoma Nwagba, said the programme will translate macroeconomic reforms into tangible relief for ordinary Nigerians, the Nation reports.

Nwagba said: “When this administration began, reforms such as exchange rate unification and subsidy removal improved the macroeconomic environment.

“The question has been how those gains reach people at the bottom. This initiative is part of that answer.”


NNPC RELEASES LOCATIONS OF CNG FILLING STATIONS

According to the NNPC, motorists in Lagos can now access premium CNG fuel at the following retail outlets:

Lagos Locations:
–Fola Agoro
–Amuwo Odofin
–Marina
–Agege By Pass
–Lakowe
–Odogunyan

Abuja Locations:
–Gaduwa
–Olusegun Obasanjo Way
–Gudu
–Dei Dei
–Gwagwalada
–Ushafa

Welby visited Mrs Tinubu ahead of a major interfaith dialogue convened by the Global Forum for Peace in Abu Dhabi under the patronage of Sheikh Abdallah Bin Baya, scheduled to be held next week in London, United Kingdom.

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on the international community to stop misreading the security crisis in Nigeria.

Speaking during the meeting at her office in Abuja, Senator Tinubu said proper understanding of the country’s realities was essential to finding lasting solutions to its challenges.

In a statement by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady noted that while Nigeria continued efforts to promote peace and harmony among different groups, the global community must support such initiatives by avoiding what she described as inaccurate framing of the nation’s security situation.

“The world must get the right perspective of the various challenges in the nation to be able to proffer appropriate solutions.

“Listening to one side of the story and then concluding is a wrong approach to conflict resolution.”

Mrs Tinubu kicked against the tendency to attribute Nigeria’s security crises to religious or ethnic fault lines.

She accused external observers of doing that without proper verification. The former senator said the Nigerian government has consistently raised concerns in response to international coverage of farmer-herder clashes and insurgency in the North-East and Middle Belt.

The First Lady commended the former head of the Anglican Church for acknowledging that Nigeria’s challenges were best understood and resolved by Nigerians themselves.

“Listening to one side of the story and then concluding is a wrong approach to conflict resolution,” she said.

She also welcomed moves to deepen interfaith dialogue, urging that security agencies be included in such engagements.

“Thank you for opening up this interfaith dialogue, and I believe that you should also invite not just the Christians and Muslims but also the Nigeria Security to the dialogue to know what they have been doing,” she added.

Senator Tinubu used the opportunity to praise Nigeria’s Armed Forces for their continued sacrifices and gallantry in tackling insecurity across the country.

She also called on churches in Nigeria and around the world to continue preaching values that encourage responsible living and peaceful coexistence.

In his remarks, Welby said he was bringing his experience to bear on issues relating to peace and security in Nigeria, while also highlighting the country’s image as a nation that protects freedom of worship.

He disclosed that an interfaith dialogue meeting would be convened next week in London by the Global Forum for Peace, Abu Dhabi, under the patronage of Sheikh Abdallah Bin Baya.

According to him, the dialogue would host 12 Christians and 12 Muslims aimed at fostering understanding and finding workable solutions to interfaith conflicts in Nigeria and beyond.

“We want to contribute to what President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing to promote peace, interfaith wise. All we are after is enduring peace,” Welby said.

“I am here to smooth the way ahead of the interfaith dialogue and make sure the meeting addresses all that it should.”
Welby was accompanied on the visit by Richard Montgomery.

The meeting came barely a month after President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to the United Kingdom, where the First Lady participated in sessions on interfaith dialogue and attended a church service at Lambeth Palace.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has dissociated himself from any complicity in supporting violence or terrorist activities.

A statement on Thursday, signed by Prince Bashir Adefaka, on behalf of the media team of the Sultan, also cautioned an American identified as Mac Arnold against spreading false and baseless claims against the traditional ruler, who also doubles as the Leader of the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria.


The statement disclosed that Mac Arnold has made a series of allegations and commentaries aimed at drawing public attention through sensational and unsubstantiated claims against the person and office of the Sultan.

It, however, submitted that the claims are baseless, misleading, and unsupported by credible evidence.

While warning the American citizen to desist from such claims, the Sultan threatened to take legal action in line with both Nigerian and international laws if the individual continues making such derogatory remarks.

The full statement reads: “The attention of the Media Team of Sultan of Sokoto His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar CFR, mni, who is the Leader of the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria, has been drawn to recent video claims and statements made by an American commentator, Mac Arnold.

“For some time, we have observed with restraint a series of allegations and commentaries attributed to the said individual, which appear aimed at drawing public attention through sensational and unsubstantiated claims against the person and office of the Sultan.

“We categorically state that these allegations—particularly those suggesting any form of complicity in violence or terrorism—are baseless, misleading, and unsupported by credible evidence. Similar accusations have previously surfaced in public discourse and have been widely contested and dismissed as divisive narratives capable of inflaming tensions.

“The Sultan of Sokoto remains a respected national and religious leader known for promoting peaceful coexistence, interfaith dialogue, and national unity across Nigeria and globally.

“Accordingly, we find it unnecessary to dignify such claims with further engagement. However, we urge members of the public and the international community to exercise caution, verify information from credible sources, and refrain from amplifying content that may undermine social cohesion.

“We also reaffirm that any material deemed defamatory or capable of inciting discord will be subjected to appropriate legal review, in line with both Nigerian and international laws.

“The Sultanate remains committed to peace, justice, and the unity of Nigeria, and will continue to work with all stakeholders toward these enduring goals.”