Tinubu’s Reforms in Oil and Gas Regulation Worth Celebrating — Energy Governance Group

 The African Centre for Energy Governance and Accountability (ACEGA) has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it described as groundbreaking and well-coordinated reforms in Nigeria’s oil and gas regulatory framework.

The group said the Tinubu administration’s support for the effective implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and its deliberate push to increase crude oil production are signs of genuine transformation in the energy sector.

In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Dr. Usman Bello Idris, the group said Tinubu’s approach to reform has restored investor confidence, revived production targets, and positioned Nigeria as a more responsible and efficient oil-producing nation.

“For years, Nigeria’s oil and gas sector groaned under inefficiency, uncertainty, and dwindling output. But what we are seeing today under President Tinubu’s leadership is a bold reset — one that respects the sanctity of the Petroleum Industry Act while pushing for real, measurable growth,” Dr. Idris said.

One of the most visible outcomes of the reforms, ACEGA said, is the steady increase in Nigeria’s crude oil production. 

Since mid-2023, the country has seen a gradual climb in output levels, breaching 1.7 million barrels per day in recent months — a marked improvement from the lows of 2022 when output plunged below 1.2 million barrels due to theft, vandalism, and poor infrastructure.

Dr. Idris noted that this uptick did not happen by chance but was the result of deliberate interventions supported by Tinubu, including the relaunch of dormant assets, improved metering systems, and coordinated security efforts around critical pipelines.

“Nigeria’s crude oil production had been on life support, but through strategic regulatory leadership and presidential backing, the situation is reversing. Fields are coming back online, theft is being checked, and operators are regaining the confidence to produce,” he said.

ACEGA particularly hailed the president’s strong commitment to implementing the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), signed into law in 2021. 

The group noted that Tinubu’s government did not just inherit the legislation; it has gone further to empower the relevant agencies, notably the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), to deliver on its promises.

“We must commend President Tinubu for not sidelining the PIA or paying lip service to its provisions. Instead, he has supported a robust implementation strategy that is already yielding results in licensing, fiscal discipline, community development, and investor clarity,” Dr. Idris stated.

The PIA, which took nearly two decades to become law, was designed to overhaul Nigeria’s oil and gas governance by introducing a transparent fiscal framework, separating regulatory responsibilities, and ensuring that host communities benefit from oil proceeds.

“From the Host Communities Development Trust to new fiscal incentives for marginal fields, and clearer guidelines for environmental compliance, the PIA under this administration is not just a document — it is a living, working tool of reform,” Idris added.

The group also applauded the leadership of Engr. Gbenga Komolafe at the NUPRC noting that his commitment to professionalism and transparency has contributed immensely to the success of the reforms.

It cited the commission’s efforts in reducing production costs, introducing real-time production monitoring, and facilitating a transparent bidding process for oil blocks as exemplary.

“The president has given NUPRC room to work, and they are proving that competent leadership can deliver results. NUPRC’s moves to enforce better metering, clamp down on theft, and promote decarbonisation reflect a forward-thinking agenda aligned with global standards,” ACEGA said.

While commending the gains so far, ACEGA urged the Tinubu administration not to rest on its laurels. 

The group said there is a need for deeper investment in energy infrastructure, faster resolution of legacy disputes, and strategic planning for Nigeria’s energy transition in the face of global decarbonisation targets.

“The work is not done yet. Nigeria still faces challenges in refining capacity, gas monetisation, and energy access for its people. But what this administration has shown is that with political will, the sector can be revived. The future of oil and gas in Nigeria can be cleaner, more transparent, and more rewarding for all stakeholders,” Dr. Idris said.

ACEGA concluded by calling on stakeholders in the oil and gas industry — from international oil companies to local investors and host communities — to support the government’s reforms and work collectively to secure Nigeria’s energy future.

$5 Million Scandal: Coalition Accuses NMDPRA CEO Farouk Ahmed of Fleeing Nigeria Under Hajj Cover*

Fresh controversy has emerged over Engr. Farouk Ahmed, the embattled Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), who is now accused of fleeing Nigeria to evade arrest by anti-graft agencies.

According to a statement by the Coalition for Public Accountability (COPA), Ahmed left the country under the pretext of performing Hajj but diverted to a discreet location on an island in the United States.

The development comes amid mounting allegations of corruption, abuse of office, and unexplained foreign education expenses for his children, totalling over $5 million.

The group said Ahmed’s disappearance is a calculated attempt to avoid imminent prosecution following protests and petitions filed against him by civil society and legal advocacy groups.

“We have received credible intelligence that Engr. Farouk Ahmed is not in Saudi Arabia or the UAE as publicly claimed. Instead, he is currently hiding on a private island in the United States,” the statement read.

“This escape was carefully staged to mislead authorities and frustrate ongoing investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC),” it added.

The statement, signed by Comrade Ibrahim Adekunle, President of COPA, described Farouk Ahmed’s actions as a desperate flight from justice by a high-ranking public official who has abused the trust of the Nigerian people.

“This is not just a case of moral failure or financial mismanagement. We are talking about a coordinated abuse of public office to fund a luxury lifestyle and foreign education for his children in elite European schools, using mechanisms that appear to have involved financial proxies and undeclared accounts,” Adekunle said.

“His disappearance confirms our fears — that the man has no intention of facing justice and is exploiting diplomatic and procedural loopholes to escape the consequences of his actions.”

Farouk Ahmed had previously come under intense scrutiny following mass protests and detailed petition by the Concerned Lawyers Forum, which accused him of sponsoring the foreign education of four children through untraceable channels. The petition alleged that the funds were inconsistent with his official earnings, and that the transactions had not been declared in his asset filings.

The group also raised conflict of interest concerns, pointing to Ahmed’s alleged influence over the employment of his son, Faisal, at Oando PLC — a company under NMDPRA’s regulatory oversight.

“What we see here is not only a breakdown of accountability but the willingness of a public servant to mislead the nation and compromise national institutions. Nigerians deserve transparency, not cover-ups,” Adekunle said.

“We are calling on the EFCC, ICPC, and the CCB to immediately activate international extradition protocols to bring Farouk Ahmed back to Nigeria to face the law. No one should be above the law.”

The group further urged the Nigerian government to liaise with Interpol and the U.S. Department of Justice to track Ahmed’s exact location and ensure that justice is served.

The group also demanded the immediate freezing of all bank accounts and assets linked to Ahmed and his close associates, pending the conclusion of investigations.

KKU Orlu Football Tournament: Kelechi Kestermartins Ugoh Champions Youth Development Through Sport

In a stirring display of community solidarity and youth empowerment, Mr Kelechi Kestermartins Ugoh—a United States-based technology professional, human rights consultant, and philanthropist—together with the Stephen Ugoh Foundation (SUF), hosted the distinguished KKU Orlu Football Tournament from November to December 2024.

The tournament brought together promising young athletes from all eleven electoral wards of Orlu Local Government Area, fostering an atmosphere imbued with unity, anticipation, and shared aspiration.

Far surpassing the parameters of a mere sporting event, the tournament served as a platform for meaningful connection, the promotion of wholesome competition, and the reinforcement of communal spirit. Mr Ugoh and his team were notably present throughout the duration of the tournament, offering their support from the sidelines, engaging sincerely with players and supporters, and attentively listening to the stories, hopes, and challenges of the local populace.

“Sport possesses a singular capacity to unite individuals, transcend boundaries, and cultivate a sense of belonging,” Mr Ugoh remarked.

“This tournament was about far more than football. It was an endeavour in connection, encouragement, and a collective reaffirmation of our solidarity with young people and the restoration of unity amongst our people.”

Mr Ugoh’s involvement extended beyond the provision of financial and logistical assistance. He demonstrated an unwavering commitment through his physical presence and heartfelt engagement, exemplifying a rare and genuine interest in the well-being and advancement of the young athletes and their communities. His attentive presence, sincere interactions, and uplifting spirit left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

The KKU Orlu Football Tournament stands as a proud testament to Mr Ugoh’s profound dedication to grassroots development. Through the universal language of sport, he is helping to galvanise a generation, promote virtuous ideals, and reaffirm the strength of unity at the very foundation of society.

Islamic Group Slams Display of Alcohol, Indecent Dressing at Zamfara Governor’s Second-Term Anniversary Celebration

A prominent Islamic organisation in Zamfara has strongly condemned the events that characterised the celebration of Governor Dauda Lawal’s second year in office

.In a statement released to journalists in Gusau on Friday, the Zamfara Ulama Defence Forum (ZUDF) expressed deep concern over what it termed “an orchestrated reintroduction of vices” into a state widely known for its commitment to Islamic law and traditional values.

According to the group, the anniversary event held in the state capital, featured musical performances accompanied by skimpily dressed female dancers, and the open consumption of alcoholic beverages — acts considered unacceptable under Islamic law and cultural norms in Zamfara.

The president of the group, Sheikh Bashir Mu’azu Marafa, said the scenes that unfolded at the celebration were “unthinkable” in a state that pioneered the implementation of Sharia law in Nigeria.

“It is both unfortunate and shameful that on the second-term anniversary of a sitting governor in a core Islamic state like Zamfara, alcohol was served, and women of questionable character were paraded on public stages in revealing clothes,” the statement reads.

“This is a clear departure from the values we hold dear as a people. Zamfara has long stood as a model for Islamic governance in Nigeria. What happened during that event is nothing short of a betrayal of the trust of the people who expected better from their leaders.”

Sheikh Marafa, a respected Islamic scholar in the state, noted that the presence of entertainers on stage with female dancers dressed in body-fitted attire and short skirts would have been enough to spark outrage in any conservative society, let alone in a state like Zamfara where modesty is a fundamental value.

“Zamfara is not Las Vegas. It is a land of honour, a land of religious discipline. For these kinds of immoral scenes to be playing out in broad daylight under the watch of our leaders is a disgrace,” the Islamic cleric said.

The group warned that the incident could signal a dangerous shift that undermines the efforts of Islamic clerics, scholars, and moral reformers who have worked tirelessly to preserve the values of modesty, morality, and spiritual uprightness in the state.

“What message are we sending to our children and the next generation when those at the top are encouraging moral decay in the name of celebration. If this is what the next four years hold, then Zamfara is on a fast path to losing its identity,” he added.

ZUDF also called on Islamic clerics across the state to speak out against what it described as “the creeping secularisation of Zamfara under Governor Lawal’s administration,” adding that silence from religious leaders at this time would amount to complicity.

“We cannot remain silent and watch Zamfara turn into a hub of entertainment and sin. This is a time for the righteous to raise their voices. We are calling on the governor to offer a public apology for this embarrassment and make a clear commitment to restoring the moral sanctity of public events in the state,” the group added.

The forum urged the state house of assembly, traditional institutions, and community-based organisations to demand accountability from the governor and his team over the coordination and content of the celebration.

“Leadership must be guided by wisdom and humility. The optics of that event were poor and have sparked dismay across the Muslim community not just in Zamfara, but across the north,” the statement added.

The group expressed appreciation to members of the public who raised concerns on social media, especially young people in the state who, it said, were “more conscious of what is right and wrong than the officials entrusted with setting the moral tone”.

“The Zamfara Ulama Defence Forum remains committed to protecting the moral integrity of our communities. We will continue to hold those in authority to account, and we will not stop speaking out against actions that threaten our values and identity as a people.”

Oyo Lawmaker, Yusuf Adebisi Congratulates Team Oyo At Just Concluded National Sports Festival; As Team Oyo Clinches 38-Gold, 38 Silvers Others

Chairman House Committee on Youth and Sports at the Oyo State House Of Assembly, Honourable Yusuf Adebisi representing Ibadan Southwest State constituency has send a congratulatory message to the contingents that represent Oyo State at the just concluded National Sports Feastival , Abeokuta, Ogun State for demonstration of skills and talents which has put the pacesetter state on high at the tournament.

Team Oyo concluded the 22nd National Sports Festival with a strong performance on the final day, adding to their impressive medal haul. The state’s athletes showcased their prowess across multiple events, securing a total of 126 medals: 38 gold, 38 silver, and 50 bronze, landing them in 6th position on the final medal table.

“I am thrilled to extend my heartfelt congratulations on the athletes and other contingents’ remarkable performances at the National Sports Festival, their dedication, hard work, and perseverance have truly paid off, and have made us all in Oyo State incredibly proud”.

Honourable Adebisi continued, “Each one of them has demonstrated not just skill and talent, but also the spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship that inspires those around them. The team commitment to excellence and relentless pursuit of goals are commendable and serve as a shining example for aspiring athletes everywhere in home and abroad”.

He expressed satisfaction to the coaches and support staff for hard work and guidance which he described as been invaluable, and it is evident that behind every great athlete stands a team of dedicated individuals who believe in them, together they have created an environment that fosters growth, learning, and success.

However, Honourable Yusuf Adebisi added that they should remember that this is just the beginning. Each competition they participate in and medals earn, and every challenge faced builds the foundation for an even brighter future.

“Keep pushing the boundaries of what you can achieve; keep dreaming big and never lose sight of your goals”. He advised

The reports have it that in kickboxing, Adegboyega Aminat clinched a gold medal in the women’s 52KG category, while Oshoba Pelejah claimed gold in the men’s 75KG event. Hassan Tiamiyu earned a silver in the men’s 71KG category, and Godwin Ambrose secured a bronze in the men’s 91KG division.

Also in Cycling, Yekeen Tawakalt taking silver in the women’s 30KM point race and Azeez Abass earning bronze in the men’s 40KM point race. In table tennis, Azeez Wasiu added a bronze in the men’s singles event.

Team Oyo’s remarkable performance has further cemented their competitive spirit and dedication, solidifying their standing as one of Nigeria’s top sporting contingents at this year’s festival.

Delta State, hosts, Ogun and Bayelsa State completed the top three spots on the medal table. Next will be 23rd edition of the National Sports Festival which Enugu State will be hosting in 2026.

 

 

 

 

 

 

*Midterm Performance: North-West Group Slams Zamfara Governor Dauda Lawal over Poor Performance Despite Massive FAAC Allocations

Two years after Dauda Lawal took the reins as governor of Zamfara State, a civil society group in the northwest has described his administration as a “monumental failure,” accusing him of squandering the billions received from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) with no visible development to show for it.

The group, Zamfara Progressive Coalition (ZAC), in a statement signed by its president, Alhaji Ibrahim Dan-Azumi, said the people of Zamfara are worse off than they were in 2023 when Lawal assumed office. 

The group said despite receiving billions in FAAC allocations within two years, the governor has “chosen pageantry over performance,” spending more time in Abuja than in the state he was elected to govern.

“It is heartbreaking that two years after the election of Dauda Lawal, Zamfara remains a state defined by hunger, fear, and neglect. Billions have come in, but not one major road, hospital, or school has been built or rehabilitated. The people have been abandoned,” the group said.

ZAC said Zamfara has remained one of Nigeria’s most troubled states, facing incessant attacks by bandits, displacement of rural communities, and the collapse of basic public services. 

The group pointed to the growing number of out-of-school children, unpaid salaries in local governments, and the worsening security situation as signs of failed leadership.

“We expected a leader who would tackle insecurity with urgency, invest in agriculture, create jobs, and rebuild our broken systems. What we got instead is a part-time governor who prefers the comfort of Abuja to the cries of his people,” Dan-Azumi said in the statement.

“Go to Tsafe, Bungudu, and Maru LGAs — the people are living like refugees in their own land. Bandits collect taxes from farmers, while the government sits idle. Our people are being kidnapped weekly, yet the governor keeps attending ceremonies in Abuja.

“Hospitals across the state lack basic drugs. Pregnant women are dying from avoidable complications. Schools have no chairs, no roofs, and no teachers. Where has the money gone? We demand an audit of all FAAC allocations since 2023.

“The poverty level in Zamfara is among the highest in the country. Young people roam the streets with nothing to do. There are no empowerment schemes, no vocational training centres, and no industrial plans. This is governance by negligence.

“Governor Lawal promised a new Zamfara. What we got is a ghost governor. He shows up in Abuja more than in Gusau. Leadership requires presence, empathy, and accountability. We have seen none of these.

“This is a state with potential. We have gold, agriculture, and a youthful population. But none of this has been harnessed. Instead, what we see is a government that celebrates IGR growth on paper, while the people remain poor, hungry, and forgotten.”

The group said it will begin publishing monthly scorecards of the governor’s activities to keep citizens informed and pressure the government to act. 

The coalition also called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate how funds allocated to Zamfara in the last 24 months have been spent.

Nigerians Navy Forward operating Base Badagry organised Medical Rhapsody Outreach in Topo Community to Celebrate 69th Anniversary of Nigerian Navy

The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry has organised a free Medical Rhapsody Outreach for residents of the Topo Community and its environs in Badagry, Lagos State.

This outreach is part of the celebrations marking the 69th Anniversary of the Nigerian Navy and reflects our commitment to our corporate social responsibility. It is designed to provide essential medical care and support to the good people of Topo Community, with particular attention to the less privileged.

Our team of devoted medical personnel is delivering free healthcare services, including medical consultations, blood pressure checks, and the distribution of vital medications. This initiative not only addresses immediate healthcare needs but also fosters a deeper connection between the Nigerian Navy and the host community.

As we commemorate the Nigerian Navy’s 69th Anniversary, this outreach reaffirms our unwavering commitment to humanitarian service and national development. While our primary duty remains the protection of Nigeria’s maritime domain, we are equally devoted to improving the welfare of the communities we serve.

At this juncture, we wish to express our heartfelt appreciation to our tireless and dedicated medical personnel, whose efforts have been instrumental in the success of this outreach. We also extend our sincere gratitude to our partners and the gracious people of Topo Village for their cooperation and warm hospitality.

In the spirit of this momentous milestone, we reaffirm our pledge to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and service to the nation. We remain steadfast in our responsibility to ensure maritime security, in accordance with the Strategic Directive 06-23 of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.

To our host community, the wonderful people of Topo Village: it is truly our honour and privilege to serve you. We look forward to building a healthier, safer, and more prosperous future together.