₦airaland Forum

phantom:
Precisely why your country is a failed state. Its not just because of the crooks who lead you but also dunderheads like you who defend their impunity.

"After God na Tinubu" indeed! How you don't find yourself nauseating is rather shocking!

The federal government has entered into a $328.81 million agreement with China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) aimed at enhancing electricity supply across Nigeria.
As reported by NAN, the contract encompasses engineering, procurement, construction, and financing for the rollout of transmission lines under phase one of the “presidential power initiative (PPI)”.

During the signing event in Abuja on Wednesday, Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu stated that CMEC would play a central role in executing the project.

He mentioned that the firm’s tasks would involve refurbishing and constructing “330 kilovolt (kV)” and “132kV” transmission lines.

Adelabu noted that the “FGN Power Company”, a federal government-established “special purpose vehicle (SPV)”, would oversee the execution of the initiative.

He explained that the project was structured to boost grid capacity and eliminate wasted potential, highlighting that it had been split into two critical segments.

According to him, “Priority one includes seven brownfield and 10 greenfield lines, totaling 544 kilometers with a load capacity of 7,140 megawatts.”

“These vital infrastructure projects will serve as the arteries to carry increased power generated through mid-stream transmission directly to homes, businesses, and industries powering our economy.

“This project is not an isolated effort. It is strategically designed to complement ongoing mid-stream transmission enhancements. Our vision is holistic—from generation to the last mile of distribution.

“By upgrading and expanding the transmission network,” he added, Nigeria would be directly tackling a major challenge within its power sector.

Adelabu emphasized that resolving such bottlenecks would lead to more reliable electricity for millions, spurring economic development, job creation, and improved living conditions.

“Today’s signing is a tangible demonstration of the federal government’s unwavering commitment, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, to deliver stable and reliable power to all Nigerians,” he said.

“We are determined to eliminate the obstacles that have hindered past progress and build a 21st-century-ready power sector.”

Also speaking at the event, Kenny Anuwe, Managing Director of “FGN Power Company”, underlined the need to modernize the transmission infrastructure in order to deliver electricity where it is most needed.

“At FGN Power Company, our mandate is clear: to deliver improved power supply to all Nigerians. A robust and reliable transmission network is the backbone of a stable power sector,” Anuwe said.

He described the alliance with CMEC as a well-thought-out strategy to reinforce the country’s transmission framework, ensuring that investments in electricity generation lead to meaningful improvements for citizens.

One of the global rating agencies, Fitch Ratings, has upgraded Nigeria’s Long-Term (LT) Foreign-Currency (FC) Issuer Default Rating (IDR) to ‘B’, from ‘B-‘.

It also assigned Nigeria a stable outlook.
According to its assessment on Nigeria obtained on its website yesterday, the upgrade of the West African country reflected increased confidence in the government’s broad commitment to policy reforms implemented since its move to orthodox economic policies in June 2023, including exchange rate liberalisation, monetary policy tightening and steps to end deficit monetisation and remove fuel subsidies.

“These have improved policy coherence and credibility and reduced economic distortions and near-term risks to macroeconomic stability, enhancing resilience in the context of persistent domestic challenges and heightened external risks,” Fitch added.

It pointed out that the Stable Outlook reflects its expectation that Nigeria’s macroeconomic policy stance would sustain improvements in the functioning of the forex (FX) market and support the move to lower inflation, “although it will likely remain far higher than rating peers.”

“Additionally, we anticipate a continued reduction in external vulnerabilities through further easing of domestic FC supply constraints, while renewed energy sector reforms should help sustain current account surpluses.

“Greater formalisation of FX activity including the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) recent introduction of an electronic FX matching platform and a new FX code to enhance transparency and efficiency, along with monetary policy tightening, has led to a greater rise in FX liquidity and general stability in the FX market after a 40 percent depreciation in 2024, closing the spread between the official and parallel exchange rates.

“Net official FX inflows through the CBN and autonomous sources rose by about 89 percent in 4Q24, compared to an eight percent rise in 4Q23. We expect continued formalisation of FX activity to support the exchange rate, although we anticipate modest depreciation in the short term,” it added.

The CBN has tightened monetary conditions through a combination of policy rate hikes to 27.5% (up 875bp since February 2024) and use of prudential and operational tools such as open market operations (at rates closely aligned to the MPR) to strengthen monetary policy transmission after years of financial repression.

“We project inflation, which reached 23.2 percent year-on-year in February 2025 under the recently rebased CPI, to average 22% in 2025 (‘B’ median 4.3%) and 20% in 2026. Fitch does not anticipate a premature easing of monetary policy that would undermine the benign effects of the policy adjustment, given high inflation,” it added

In an apparent move to boost state energy planning within the States of the Federation, governors, on Thursday, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Energy China.

Energy China is a major Chinese company known for renewable energy and gas production in China.

Speaking on behalf of the chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), the governor of Gombe State who doubles as the chairman of Northern Governors’ Forum, Alhaji Inuwa Yahaya, said that the MoU and the ensuing relationship between the organisations will signal a critical step in strengthening the institutional framework for sub-national energy governance through fostering energy security, efficiency, and economic development across the States.

According to the Gombe State governor, ”It is crucial to acknowledge the transformative journey that Nigeria is embarking upon in the area of access to sustainable electricity which includes renewable energy, particularly in the wake of the recently passed Electricity Act of 2023.

”This groundbreaking legislation marked a pivotal moment for our energy landscape, introducing innovative structures that aim to boost investments and enhance the reliability of power supply across the country.
Since the passing of the Electricity Act, we have witnessed a surge of innovations and reforms aimed at revamping our energy sector.

”We are moving towards more decentralized energy solutions, encouraging the integration of renewable energy solutions that can provide sustainable and affordable electricity to our communities.

”The Act has also laid the groundwork for improving regulatory frameworks, enabling private sector investments, and fostering public-private partnerships, a vital component for the successful implementation of our renewable energy goals.”

However, he noted that, ”we must acknowledge that these advances come with their own set of challenges. Shortfalls in infrastructure, financing, and regulatory hurdles continue to impede progress. We must address these issues collaboratively.


”By fostering partnerships between the government, private investors, and international stakeholders, we can develop innovative financing models, improve capacity building, and enhance grid infrastructure to accommodate renewable energy sources effectively.

”In this context, I want to highlight some of the ongoing reforms within states in Nigeria as they pursue ambitious but worthwhile and achievable energy initiatives. States are crafting tailored policies that align with national objectives while addressing local needs. They are also establishing frameworks and instituting regulatory bodies to drive the electricity markets within their localities. These reforms are crucial as they leverage our unique resources and provide flexibility to implement localized solar solutions.


”The synergy between state and federal initiatives will be key to driving effective change and achieving our collective renewable energy targets. The NGF has a vibrant Power Desk which has played and continues to play a coordinating role in the efforts of the States as they strive to implement the Electricity Act. The Forum offers a one-stop platform in providing support to the States as they grapple with the enormous responsibility placed on their shoulders by the Electricity Act.

”We believe that this relationship with the China Energy International Group will foster a robust development in the acceleration of energy access in the country and the NGF would use its best endeavours in supporting these efforts.”

Also, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, explained the MoU, saying, ”This collaboration supports the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This partnership reflects our shared ambition to expand access to clean energy, strengthen energy planning at the state level, and promote sustainable technologies all in alignment with our National Energy Masterplan and national development goals.”

According to the Minister, ”The scope of this MoU includes: Deployment of renewable energy infrastructure (solar, wind, hydro), and
Establishment of a Nigeria-China Renewable Energy Research Centre to drive innovation, technology transfer, and capacity-building.

”This initiative will not only improve energy access, especially in off-grid communities, but also support job creation, investment, and our climate commitments. To the Governors’ Forum, I commend your proactive involvement. Your citizens will benefit directly from this long-term vision.

”The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology stands fully behind this initiative and will ensure its swift and transparent implementation.

”Together, we are building a cleaner, smarter, and more resilient energy future for Nigeria.”

The chairman of the China Energy Commission, Dr. Song Liang, pledged full implementation of the MoU and ensured full cooperation between Nigeria and China.

He further said that there was the need to prioritise the development of the energy sector as well support sharing of intelligence on issues relating to renewable energy promotion

He promised to improve energy storage in all sector, including green energy, promising to turn Nigeria-China relationship to a new phase of cooperation.

Likewise, the Director General of the Nigeria Governors Forum, Dr. Abdullateef Shittu, said that, ”Since the passing of the Electricity Act, the NGF has being playing a pivotal role supporting and coordinating the efforts of States in their implementation of the Act.

”In addition, the NGF has established a robust Power Desk which is saddled with the critical role of coordinating the efforts of the States as they strive to implement the Electricity Act. The NGF Secretariat also facilitated the establishment of a Forum of Commissioners of Power and Energy, a platform for all the 36 States energy actors. This platform is designed to institute a community of best practices in the energy ecosystem as a means of advancing our journey to universal energy access.

”The NGF offers a one-stop platform in providing support to the States as they grapple with the enormous responsibility placed on their shoulders by the Electricity Act.
We have opened up strategic partnerships with relevant stakeholders and donor organisations in the energy space all in our bid to develop and sustain the growth of electricity in the country.”

”There is no doubt that this relationship with the China Energy International Group and Energy Commission of Nigeria will further a robust development in the acceleration of energy access in the country and we assure you that the NGF would work with you in supporting these efforts,” he stressed.

A chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, Buba Galadima, has alleged that former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is a placeholder for the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, ex-presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, in the Social Democratic Party, SDP.

Galadima made the revelation during an interview with AIT.

He wondered why Atiku would agree to work with El-Rufai, considering his previous attacks on the Vice President.

Stressing that El-Rufai has no political relevance, Galadima said the intending SDP coalition was ineffective and merely noisemaking.

Galadima said: “Did El-Rufai win one local government in Kaduna in 2020? He was a sitting governor in Kaduna when PDP won all three senatorial elections.

“He was a sitting governor in Kaduna when the PDP won 12 out of 14 House of Reps seats, and they won only one, while the other one was won by the Labour Party. That is, as a sitting governor. Now that he’s out and even fighting the governor from outside, how many votes do you think he can win?”

“The SDP coalition is ineffective; their activities are merely noisemaking. El-Rufai is actually serving as a placeholder for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar within the SDP.”

“I am surprised at Atiku’s willingness to work with El-Rufai. El-Rufai had previously advised Atiku to save his money for his children and declared that Atiku would never become president in Nigeria.”

“The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) would emerge as the larger vehicle to unite opposition parties in the 2027 presidential election.”

Atiku, El-Rufai, and some eminent politicians had announced the birth of a coalition under the SDP.

Following the declaration, a former presidential candidate of SDP, Adewale Adebayo, said Atiku, Peter Obi, and some eminent politicians are in talks to join the party. Adebayo said the coalition would wrest power from President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

Federal Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu and her daughter represented the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the prestigious Freedom of the City of London Award Ceremony Dinner.

The event was held in the grand Ballroom of the Dorchester Hotel and attracted high-ranking dignitaries, international guests, and members of the Nigerian diaspora.

The Freedom of the City of London is one of the oldest and most symbolic honors in the United Kingdom, dating back to 1237.

It is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to society, leadership, or the promotion of goodwill. By standing in for the First Lady, Bianca Ojukwu and her daughter reinforced Nigeria’s presence on the global stage and conveyed Senator Tinubu’s appreciation for the recognition bestowed.

A key moment during the evening was a cordial meeting between Bianca Ojukwu and former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo. Their brief interaction sparked interest among attendees, marking a symbolic moment of unity and mutual respect between notable figures in Nigerian history and politics.

Her role at the event reflects ongoing efforts to promote Nigeria’s image through diplomacy, cultural exchange, and international engagement.

PressMyButton:
True talk, for me, anything banditry/terrorism, I am not bothered anymore. Have you observed that whenever amnesty was announced, you'd see all these bandits coming out from their hiding place to partake. How were they communicating with them?, you even saw individuals like Gunmi inside bandits territories discussing with them. We have seen bandits being given traditional titles. But whenever these same bandits attacked and ran back inside the forest and then you won't see anyone cooperating to disclose their locations to the military. Turji Bello is gallivanting around in different communities but they won't tip off the military about his movement. We have read in the news at many times where local people including women, were caught supplying terrorists with arms, food items, drinks, drugs, etc. Vigilantes, emirs, police have been caught collaborating with them. And you want me to be bothered?. The guys collect ransom of 20, 30, 50 million, where do you think the money is going to?, who are those collecting these money?. When these bandits are caught, do they look like someone collecting millions?. Na local issue and na local solution go settle am.

Over 50 per cent of Nigeria’s earnings in the last few years is being spent on fighting insurgency.

Senator Sunday Karimi, Chairman of the Senate Services Committee, has responded to allegations made by his counterpart from Borno South, Senator Ali Ndume, who accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of making lopsided political appointments favoring his Yoruba ethnic group.

Karimi, who responded to Nudume’s allegations in a statement on Tuesday, expressed surprise at Ndume’s claims, advising him to focus on more pressing issues like the nation’s insecurity.

Sen. Karimi expressed surprise that Ndume, a former Chief Whip of the 10th Senate, often chose to “play to the gallery” by leaving “real development challenges like the insecurity confronting Nigeria, to promote sentiments.”

The Kogi-West Senator cited the devastation caused to Nigeria’s existence by Boko Haram insurgency, saying that it cost the nation “over 50 per cent of its earnings” in recent years in counter-terrorism spending.

Karimi urged Ndume to redirect his energy towards finding local solutions to the insurgency, rather than criticizing the government and “constantly projecting” himself as a critic of Tinubu’s Administration.

“Over 50 per cent of Nigeria’s earnings in the last few years is being spent on fighting insurgency.

“Rather than playing to the gallery and criticising the government, Senator Ndume as a leader of his people should go back home, liaise with his people on solving Boko Haram problems.

“Insecurity has a local solution”, he stated.

Senator Karimi highlighted his efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping, and violent crimes in Kogi-West by citing a notable example, when he facilitated the construction of a Military Base in Egbe Town, Yagba West Local Government Area, and provided additional logistics to support security initiatives.

Karimi stressed that this proactive approach demonstrates his commitment to addressing the region’s security challenges.

“The country has lost a lot of his soldiers and trillions of Naira fighting insurgents in Senator Ndume’s Senatorial district in the last decades.

“In fact, I lost one of the young officers, a captain in the Nigerian Army from my Senatorial District serving in his community three weeks ago.

“Lots of young Nigerians had lost their lives fighting to defend the territorial integrity of our country. Those are more serious and compelling issues threatening our collective existence”, he added.

The Kogi-West lawmaker was reacting to the latest comments made by Ndume when he appeared as a guest on Arise TV’s ‘Prime Time’ on Monday, where he alleged that Tinubu had been unfair to other parts of the country in the appointments he made so far.

Section 14(3) of the Constitution, which deals with federal character, Ndume argued that so far, Tinubu had breached it in his appointments.

Ndume said: “Appointments, especially political appointments, should reflect the federal character, and that is not the case here.

“I think I have a better personal relationship with most of these people, but that does not stop me from speaking the truth. I have an obligation to do that.”

Everyone, each one of us, will stand before God and account for what he is responsible for.”