Month: June 2024

The Federal Government says establishing the Africa Energy Bank (AEB) represents a bold and strategic move towards ensuring energy security, fostering economic growth and promoting sustainable development across Africa.

Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Oil), made this known at a dinner with Heads of Mission of African Petroleum Producers’ Organisation (APPO) Member Countries on Tuesday in Abuja.

The meeting with the envoys was a step further in the Federal Government’s bid to host Africa’s first energy bank and to convince them on why the facility should be located in Nigeria, the Africa’s biggest oil producer.

The idea of the bank was floated to ensure long-term energy efficiency and security for Africa following the hesitation of the West to continue to invest in fossil fuels on the continent.

Lokpobiri explained that Nigeria’s bid to host the bank’s headquarters was a testament to its unwavering commitment to these goals, adding that over the past months, the Ministry of
Petroleum Resources had worked tirelessly to prepare for the moment.

‘We have achieved significant milestones, including a comprehensive assessment by the APPO Afrexim-Bank inspection team. Their positive evaluation underscores Nigeria’s readiness and capability to host the AEB.

‘However, the journey does not end here. To secure the hosting rights, we need the collective support of all APPO Member Countries. Our competitors have intensified their efforts by appointing Special Envoys to lobby for their bids.

‘In response, we are appealing to each of you to recognise the advantages of situating the AEB headquarters in Nigeria. Nigeria offers a strategic geographical location, robust infrastructure and a dynamic energy sector,’ he said.

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According to the minister who described the dinner as not just a gathering, but a call to action, Nigeria is committed to fostering a collaborative environment that will enable the AEB to thrive and achieve its ma
ndate effectively, explaining.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Amb. Nicholas Ella, said that Nigeria’s strategic location at the crossroads of West Africa rendered Abuja an unrivaled nexus of connectivity and accessibility.

Ella said that with Abuja’s extensive network of transportation infrastructure and logistical capabilities, it offered a strategic gateway to the entire African continent, providing the bank with unparalleled access to key energy markets and decision-makers across Africa.

He said that Nigeria’s proactive approach to regulatory reform had also positioned the country as a paragon of stability and transparency within the global energy landscape.

‘Nigeria’s rich endowment of oil, gas, and renewable energy resources present an unparalleled opportunity for the bank to harness the continent’s vast energy potential and drive sustainable development,’ he said.

He said that Nigeria’s burgeoning renewable energy sector, characterised by abundant solar and
wind resources, held an immense promise for powering Africa’s future.

According to him, with huge oil and gas reserves, Nigeria seeks to leverage its energy wealth to catalyse innovation, investment, and economic diversification across the continent, ensuring energy security and resilience for generations to come.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Adamu Lamuwa, represented by Ben Okorie, described the event as a matter of extraordinary significance, explaining that the gravity of the decision cannot be overstated.

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‘It holds the power to shape the trajectory of energy cooperation and development across Africa for generations to come,’ he said.

Lamuwa expressed confidence at its collective ability to realise a future of prosperity and progress for all Africans, as Africa embarks on the transformative journey together, guided by the principles of cooperation, inclusivity, and sustainability.

Nigeria holds Africa’
s largest natural gas reserves and ranks ninth globally, boasting proven reserves of 200 trillion cubic feet and gas production capacity standing at 8.5 billion cubic feet per day.

Hosting the bank in Nigeria ensures proximity to key energy technocrats and experts, which is essential for formulating and implementing effective solutions to Africa’s energy challenges.

The bank’s share capital is expected to be five billion dollars to be subscribed over three years with an initial capital of1.5 billion dollars reserved for APPO member countries.

Afrexim Bank has been supporting APPO to establish the Bank and has approved an investment of 1.75 billion dollars for the bank.

The AEB will finance hydrocarbon, oil and gas infrastructure across the energy streams, with target shareholders as African governments, national oil companies, sovereign wealth funds, private and public sector institutional investors and international partners like the Middle East and Asia.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Nigerians have expressed mixed reactions as Nigeria celebrates 25 years of Democratic Government, saying they need to see more dividends of democracy.

Some Nigerians, who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday, said our leaders need to listen to the citizens which was what was obtainable in a true democracy.

Mr Isaac Ighure, a Former Secretary-General, Nigerian Guild of Editors, said there was need for leaders to firm up the country’s democracy and improve on it.

‘Democracy is yet to take a firm root in Nigeria. We keep describing our democracy as nascent.

‘We cannot remain young forever, after 25 years we should be standing firm in our democracy and see its dividends.’

Ighure said Nigerian leaders did not have a listening ear citing the removal of fuel subsidy and the floating of the naira as examples, which had led to hardship.

‘Our leaders need to listen to the people because the people voted for them. That is what democracy is. Our leaders do not tolerate alternative views.

‘They ne
ed to wake up to entrench free democratic practices, freedom of the press, and the right of the people to make their feelings known through peaceful protest without intimidation by security personnel.

‘The government needs to take away the hunger ravaging the land, improve the health and education sectors, provide adequate infrastructure, and tackle insecurity in the land.

‘Nigerians can no longer feed properly, Nigerians are living in IDP camps in their own states, farmers can no longer go to the farms because of bandits.

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‘The Chibok and Dapachi School children are still missing, and other students are being kidnapped from their schools. These are not things that make up a democratic setting,’ he said.

He said the government must tackle corruption at all levels, and prosecute any corrupt person irrespective of who they were.

‘We claim to model our democracy after the U. S., which is a largely free society. Former U. S. President, Donald Trump h
as been convicted of a felony, that is a true democracy. Can that happen in Nigeria?

‘Leaders should not live in opulence while the citizens live in penury. Our leaders should give us a sense of worth.

‘Your children cannot be sick at home or unable to go to school while you and the parents are looking for money to buy a new car or travel abroad.’

Ighure urged the government to pay the minimum wage proposed by labour, saying it was long overdue, especially with the present economic situation which had led to hardship.

Femi Ogunshola, a public servant, said the country had witnessed some dividends of democracy, however, things could be better after 25 years of democracy.

‘The press is relatively free compared to the military era and Nigerians can now exercise their democratic right to vote and be voted for.

‘Nigerian youths have now been given the opportunity to occupy leadership positions as well.

‘However, we still have a long way to go, this is not where we are supposed to be as a nation.

‘Nigeria c
an be better if we have the right leaders, who listen to the people and consider the citizens’ interests above their personal interest. ‘

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Mrs Gloria Okafor, a businesswoman, said Nigeria had witnessed some dividends of democracy but a lot more could be done to achieve more.

‘In the area of freedom of speech, we have made good progress. Also, we have a system of government where citizens can vote for their leaders who represent them in parliament.

‘However, we are not where we are supposed to be yet after 25 years. if you compare other countries practising democracy and see what they have achieved in terms of development.

then you know Nigeria still has a long way to go.

‘Democracy is a good thing but part of the problem is that the people are not holding the government accountable.

‘Government must listen more to the people and after listening they should act on what the people have said.

‘ It is one thing to listen and
another to take action. We need a responsive government,’ she said.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has called for activation of emergency response teams of the Nigeria Security Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) towards a disaster free 2024.

NEMA Director General, Mrs Zubaida Umar, made the call during a courtesy visit to the NSCDC Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.

She said the call was necessary in anticipation of predicted floods, which would be affecting 148 LGAs in 31 states this rainy season.

Umar emphasised the importance of enhancing collaboration among government agencies, .

‘Specifically, 148 LGAs in 31 States are predicted to be within the high flood risk areas.

‘249 LGAs in 35 states and the FCT are considered to fall within the moderate flood risk areas during the 2024 rainy season.

‘I seek for your collaboration with NEMA in the onerous task of saving lives and livelihoods.

This will also restore normalcy in the event of floods and associated secondary disasters as the rainy season intensifies,’ she said.

According to her, the visit follows a Me
morandum of Understanding (MOU) signed on Feb. 2, by NEMA and NSCDC, aimed at bolstering disaster preparedness and response.

She underscored the need for continuous engagement to ensure the safety, security, and dignity of Nigerians during disasters.

Umar praised the NSCDC for its consistent support in providing security during disaster response operations, highlighting their role in safeguarding relief interventions and protecting vulnerable groups.

‘NEMA distribution of relief materials can not have been a success without the NSCDC providing safety and security to our staffers, the beneficiaries, and the items distributed.

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‘The NSCDC has provided safety and protected the dignity of women, children and the elderly living in Internally Displaced Persons Camps and those forced to take refuge in host communities as a result of disaster situations,’ she said.

Responding, the NSCDC Commandant General (CG), Ahmed Audi, expressed the org
anisation’s commitment to enhancing its partnership with other agencies.

The CG highlighted the importance of collaboration in disaster preparedness, distribution of materials, and training.

According to him, NSCDC would deepen the collaboration and ensure a more robust approach to addressing the current security challenges in the country.

He also emphasised the need for coordination and cooperation among agencies to provide solutions to the ongoing conflicts.

Additionally, the CG assured NEMA of its organisation’s support in terms of workers’ safety and security during material distribution.

He reiterated NSCDC’s dedication to working together with its partners to ensure peace and security in the country.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

The Sole Administrator of Ideato North Local Government Area in Imo, Hon Chidubem Ozigbo, has pledged to run a fair and inclusive administration.

Ozigbo made the pledge on Wednesday, in a goodwill message to commemorate the 2024 Democracy Day.

He said that his administration would prioritize the principles of democracy, ensuring that every decision and action taken would be in the best interest of the community.

‘Democracy Day is a momentous day in our nation’s history. It serves as a reminder of our collective struggle, resilience, and the enduring spirit of our people to uphold the principles of democracy.

‘It is a day to celebrate the freedom, rights, and responsibilities that democracy bestows upon us.

‘As I step into the role of Sole Administrator, I am deeply humbled and honoured by the trust and confidence placed in me by the Imo State Governor, Distinguished Sen Hope Uzodimma, and love shown to me by people,’ Ozigbo stated.

He pledged to uphold the values of fairness, justice, and inclusiveness
in all endeavours, adding that together, he would work towards building a prosperous, peaceful, and united Ideato North.

He urged the people to remain steadfast in their commitment to the democratic ideals and to actively participate in the governance process.

‘Let us use this Democracy Day as an opportunity to reflect on our achievements and to renew our dedication to the progress and development of Ideato North.

‘By working together, we can overcome any challenges and create a brighter future for our children and generations to come.

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‘May this Democracy Day bring us renewed hope and inspire us to strive for excellence in all our undertakings.

‘Happy Democracy Day!!!! Ideato North!,’ Ozigbo said.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola says the Federal Government will increase the three thousand kilometres navigable waterways across the nation to five thousand kilometres.

Oyetola made the assertion on Tuesday in Lokoja during his working visit to the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and the inauguration of landmark projects embarked upon by the management of the authority.

According to him, elongating waterways will advance the effectiveness and efficiency of navigation on waterways for the passage of goods and people.

‘ I am aware that of the 10, 000 kilometres of our waterways, only 3,000 kilometres are navigable. We are determined to increase them by at least 2,000 kilometres more.

‘This is why it is desirable for us to embark on a holistic dredging of strategically important inland waterways for the passage of goods and people.

‘This is a task that must be accomplished to create positive change, and leave a lasting legacy for generations to come, ‘ he said.

O
yetola said the ministry was currently engaging relevant stakeholders to finalise the arrangement for the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) for the development of the maritime sector.

‘As a ministry, we will continue to create enabling environment, develop policies and offer necessary support to grow inland waterways segment of the maritime sector in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration.

‘ In line with the mandate of the ministry, we will continue to vigorously pursue the development of the shipping and maritime related sectors in order to ensure sustainable development of our marine resources.

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‘I call on the private sector to explore and utilise the opportunities inherent in the sector for possible investment and partnership with the government to enhance growth and ensure sustainable development, ‘ the minister said

According to him, President Bola Tinubu `s policy agenda is
the need to improve Nigeria’s balance of trade to strengthen the value of the Naira and create employment.

He said the ministry was determined to ensure the maximisation of the comparative advantages that maritime resources present.

‘ NIWA has also keyed into the concerted efforts at achieving the economic goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration led by our President.

‘ I must commend the management of NIWA for their visionary intervention in ensuring that the Water Transportation Code comes alive after several years of being in the pipeline,’ he said.

While officially unveiling the national transportation code, Oyetola said it would guide the boat operators, regulate the conduct of passengers and provide a framework for potential investors in water transportation.

The minister said the code by the NIWA would enhance the ministry to standardise water transportation to reduce accidents on nation`s waters to the barest minimum.

Other projects inaugurated by Oyetola were, 15 boats of
varying capacities and uses, comprising three boats with 150 Horsepower each for surveillance, to ensure that the NIWA Police officers are more visible.

Five boats with doubles 75 Horsepower each for enforcement of safety rules and regulations; one Gun Patrol Boat (combat ready) with 115Horsepower for emergency response to security threats.

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Others are, one 62-seater passenger boat as a pilot scheme to replace the wooden passenger canoe, three fully equipped water ambulances for prompt response to emergencies and two hydrographic survey boats with multi-beam echo sounders among other projects.

In his opening remarks, the NIWA`s Director- General, Mr Bola Oyebamiji, said the management had put in place some efforts to reposition the agency for greater efficiency.

Oyebamiji, however, said the agency was confronted with many challenges including inter-agencies rivalry occasioned by overlapping functions that called for speedy action on th
e NIWA Act currently before the National Assembly.

‘Sir, we recognise your efforts at ensuring that the Cabotage Fund is disbursed for the greater good of the sector.

‘We therefore plead that NIWA be supported to benefit maximally from this fund and its administrative set-up,’ he said

The director- general plead for minister`s support in facilitating funding for NIWA`s major Key Performance Indicators; the Capital dredging of 2000 km and the completion of the ongoing inland port at Ganaja, Lokoja.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Mr Okorie OKorie, President, Nigeria Youth Organisation (NYO) on Wednesday said that improved and speedy judicial process were key to strengthening democracy.

Okorie said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on the occasion of Democracy Day.

He urged the country’s judiciary to rise to the occasion of not only defending democracy but also sustaining it with equitable, fair and timely dispensation of justice.

‘May I use this medium to call on our judiciary to help protect our democracy with timely and just dispensation of judgments.

‘Justice delayed is denied they say. We should try to dispense justice at expected times with equity and fairness,’ he said.

He called on the judiciary to always nullify elections that lacked integrity and transparency.

According to him, the courts should make verdicts that condemn electoral malpractices without fear or favour.

The NYO president who congratulated Nigerians on celebration of 25 years of uninterrupted democracy called for a youth-
inclusive at all tiers of government.

He explained that such inclusion was necessary for national development and prosperity.

Okorie also commended the Attorney General of the Federation, Mr Lateef Fagbemi, for rising in defence of local government autonomy.

The NYO boss said that local governments, as the third tier of government, should not be stifled in true democracies because they remained the closest to the people.

Okorie identified financial and political autonomy as fundamental in engendering development in local governments.

The NYO president advised the Federal Government to ensure that political autonomy was granted local governments by allowing INEC to conduct elections for them.

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He urged Nigerians to support the Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, to restore the autonomy of local governments for rural development.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Fagbemi recently instituted a suit against 36 state gove
rnors over local governments autonomy at the Supreme Court.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria