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Nigeria Imports 15bn Litres Of Petrol In 14months

October 23, 2025

Nigeria imported over 15 billion litres of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) between August 2024 and the first 10 days of October 2025, representing nearly 69 per cent of the total national petrol supply during the 15-month period. This is despite the fact that the Dangote refinery started petrol production in September 2024.

Figures from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority show that total PMS supply for the period stood at 21.68 billion litres, with 6.67 billion litres, or 31 per cent, coming from domestic refining. The data, titled Import vs Domestic Supply Performance (PMS Daily Average Supply – August 2024 to October 2025), captured supply trends over 15 months, highlighting the gradual rise in local production and a corresponding drop in imports.

According to the breakdown, imported petrol averaged 44.60 million litres per day in August 2024 and rose to 54.30 million litres per day in September 2024, marking the peak of import dependence during the period. This was a time when the Dangote refinery began PMS supply to the local market.

It was noted that imports began to decline steadily, falling to 24.15 million litres per day by January 2025, 19.26 million litres per day in September 2025, and 15.11 million litres per day within the first 10 days of October 2025.

The decline in petrol imports showed that the Dangote refinery is gradually taking a significant share of the market, but this comes with stiff competition from petrol importers, who repeatedly accused Aliko Dangote of stifling competitors with consistent price reductions.

As domestic refining grew consistently through the period, local production, which stood at 6.43 million litres per day in September 2024, increased to 22.66 million litres per day in January 2025 before stabilising around 20 million litres per day in subsequent months. By October 2025, the Dangote refinery was producing an average of 18.93 million litres per day, exceeding imports for that month.

The data also showed notable supply fluctuations across the months as total daily PMS supply peaked at 60.73 million litres in September 2024 before dropping to 44.08 million litres in April 2025 and further to 34.04 million litres by October 2025. The variations reflected shifts in both import availability and refinery operations.

This is an indication that daily consumption has dropped significantly from an average of 60.73 million litres per day in September 2024 to 51.57 million litres in July 2025, 41.86 million in August, 34.86 million in September and 34.04 million per day in the first 10 days of October 2025.

Recall that the Federal Government totally deregulated the petrol sector in September last year, stopping the controversial fuel subsidies which the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited was paying on imported petrol.

A month-by-month analysis revealed that the highest domestic output was recorded in January 2025, with a daily average of 22.66 million litres, while the lowest was in August 2024, when no local production was recorded because Dangote had yet to commence production at that time.

The highest total supply was in September 2024 at 60.73 million litres per day, followed by October and November 2024, when total daily supply averaged 56.01 and 55.75 million litres, respectively. By the end of the review period, cumulative petrol imports had reached 15,009.85 million litres, while domestic production amounted to 6,672.44 million litres, giving a combined total of 21,682.29 million litres supplied over the 445 days between August 2024 and October 1-10, 2025.

The figures underline the ongoing transition in Nigeria’s petrol supply structure, showing a gradual but measurable increase in the contribution of domestic refining. However, the data also confirmed that imports continued to dominate the national supply mix for most of the period.

It could be recalled that while marketers insisted on importation, the Dangote refinery has been exporting petrol to other countries, including the United States. The 650,000 refinery has consistently boasted of its capacity to meet local fuel demands while exporting to foreign countries.

Aliko Dangote’s plan for building the refinery was to end Nigeria’s dependence on imported fuel despite being an oil-producing nation. However, marketers have continued to import petrol into Nigeria, competing heavily with the refinery.

Recently, the Dangote refinery challenged marketers to bring their trucks for fuel loading, boasting that it has over 310 million litres of petrol in its ranks. The Vice President of the Dangote Group, Devakumar Edwin, stated that marketers were allowed to bring any trucks for loading at the gantry, as the refinery had enough fuel for the local market and for exports.

“I have more than 310 million litres of PMS as of today inside my tanks, apart from the production which is coming out every day. Bring your tankers. We will load. Any number of tankers you bring, we’ll load. It’s a challenge I’m throwing today. No one can come and tell me I’m not loading. We can load any number of tankers you bring. So, you can see whether I have the capacity to produce or not. We have more than 310 million litres as of now,” he stressed.

The Dangote refinery had in September exported more fuel to foreign nations when Saudi Aramco and others in the Middle East Gulf closed refineries for maintenance.

A senior officer at the Dangote refinery told our correspondent that the $20bn Lekki-based plant exported large volumes of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol), aviation fuel, and diesel to other countries in August.

The official, who spoke in confidence as he was not authorised to speak with the press, said, “We export PMS, diesel and aviation fuel.”

Our correspondent gathered that the Dangote refinery had supplied two long-range cargoes of fuel to the Mideast Gulf region between June and July. According to Argus Media, a heavy refinery turnaround season in the Mideast Gulf was expected to exacerbate an already tight gasoline market in the fourth quarter, prompting key regional suppliers to boost imports.

In February, the Dangote refinery said it sold two cargoes of aviation fuel to Saudi Aramco. Aliko Dangote announced that the refinery achieved a significant milestone by successfully exporting the two cargoes of jet fuel to Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil producer.

Dangote said the refinery was reaching the ambitious goals it set for itself as it ramps up production.

“We are reaching the ambitious goals we set for ourselves, and I’m pleased to announce that we’ve just sold two cargoes of jet fuel to Saudi Aramco,” he said in February, adding that since its production began in 2024, the refinery has steadily increased its output.

Some months ago, he disclosed that the oil refinery had begun exporting PMS to other countries of the world. According to him, between June and July 2025, the refinery exported up to one million tonnes of petrol.

“Today, Nigeria has actually become a net exporter of refined products. From the beginning of June to date (July 22), we have exported about one million tonnes of PMS within the last 50 days,” he said.

The NMDPRA also testified that the Dangote refinery supplies an average of 20 million litres of petrol into the local market.

“Without a shadow of a doubt, the operation of the 650,000-barrel-per-day Dangote refinery has changed the supply dynamics, with an average daily contribution of up to 20 million litres, undoubtedly with potential for a future ramp-up,” NMDPRA Chief Executive, Farouk Ahmed, said recently in Lagos.

The Punch

IMO Scribe Commends Nigeria’s Implementation of Maritime Safety Instruments

James Orji

October 23, 2025

The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, IMO Arsenio Dominguez, has commended Nigeria for strengthening its maritime administration and advancing the effective implementation of IMO instruments.

In a letter dated October 9, 2025, and addressed to the NIMASA DG/CEO, Dominguez lauded the efforts of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, particularly the impact of the Deep Blue Project in reducing piracy within Nigeria’s territorial waters and the wider Gulf of Guinea region.

“I was particularly pleased to see first-hand the important work being undertaken by NIMASA to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime administration and to advance the effective implementation of IMO instruments,” the IMO Secretary-General stated.

“Your Agency’s efforts to enhance maritime safety, security, and environmental protection clearly demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to upholding international standards and supporting the objectives of the International Maritime Organization. The Deep Blue Project continues to stand out as a major achievement, significantly improving maritime domain awareness and contributing to a safer and more secure Gulf of Guinea. I encourage NIMASA to maintain its focus on the long-term sustainability of the project so it may serve as a model for broader regional security frameworks.”

Dominguez also commended NIMASA’s leadership for Nigeria’s active participation in IMO’s technical cooperation and capacity-building programmes, noting the Agency’s engagement in key initiatives related to decarbonization, digitalization, and seafarer training.

“These efforts are instrumental in ensuring that Nigeria remains a strong example of maritime leadership and an active contributor to the work of the IMO,” he said.

He further expressed optimism for continued collaboration between the IMO and NIMASA in advancing shared goals for a safe, secure, and sustainable maritime sector.

The IMO Secretary-General also extended commendations to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, for his leadership and commitment to the sector.

“Nigeria is a strong example of maritime leadership and has always played an important and active role within IMO, contributing meaningfully to the Organization’s work and the advancement of global maritime governance,” Dominguez noted.

“I highly value your personal commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy sectors and your strong support for the work of the IMO. I was especially pleased to note the significant progress in maritime education, including the development of the new building for maritime studies at the University of Lagos, as well as the advances achieved through the Deep Blue Project. Your leadership in promoting collaboration on decarbonization and the transition to greener shipping is also commendable and greatly appreciated.”

Ex-Presidential Aide Says Kanu Prefers “Political Solutions” After His Lawyers Dropped His Case

James Orji

October 23, 2025

A former presidential spokesman, Laolu Akande says IPOB strongman Nnamdi Kanu is interested in a political solution to his case against the federal government.

Akande, a former spokesman to Vice President Yemi Osinbajo made the remark on Thursday on Channels Television Sunrise Daily, just as the dusts arising from the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest are just settling down.

On Monday, some Nigerians demonstrated in some major cities across the country, including Abuja, the nation’s capital demanding the unconditional release of the IPOB strongman from the Department of State Services, DSS custody. Kanu is currently standing trial on terrorism and treason felony charges.

According to Akande, the IPOB leader appears not interested any longer in the case, after he declared that he will represent himself as the federal government begins his trial on Thursday.

The lawyers representing him led by Kanu Agabi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN had announced that the IPOB leader had taken over the case from them, saying they will no longer represent him in the case.

The magazine had earlier reported that Kanu’s lawyer Aloy Ejimakor, was among 10 protesters arrested on Monday by the police after they participated in the #FreeNnamdiKanu Protest in Abuja.

Ejimakor has since been arraigned in court alongside others, including Kanu’s brother, Price Emmanuel Kanu by the police. They were charged for inciting disturbance, and breach of public peace in disobedience to a court order. They have been sent to Kuje Correctional Center pending their trial.

Announcing their decision to drop Kanu’s case today, his lead counsel, Agabi, informed the court that he has applied to withdraw from representing the detained leader of the proscribed IPOB, stating that the defendant had taken the case back from them.

He also notified that court that All the Senior Advocates of Nigeria, SAN, on the defense team have also withdrawn from the suit, a development Kanu himself confirmed when he appeared in court today.

The IPOB leader told the court that he would be representing himself for now, though that might change later. When the judge asked if he should be assigned a lawyer, he declined the offer.

Defending himself orally, Kanu argued that the court lacks the jurisdiction to try him.

The IPOB leader returned to the Federal High Court Abuja on Thursday to open his defence in the suit instituted against him by the Federal Government on alleged terrorism. The case is presided by Justice James Omotosho.

Kanu had listed former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, a former Chief of Army Staff, Gen Tukur Buratai (rtd), a former Minister of Defence, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), and others as part of his witnesses.

Meanwhile, Kanu’s brother wife, Favour has cried out over the arrest and detention of her husband, Prince Emmanuel Kanu. Lamenting what her family has been through following her husband’s arrest, Favour said the protest was peaceful, saying there was not need to arrest the protesters.

She said: “It’s still surprising and shocking because everything was peaceful from the beginning to the end.

“My husband and Barrister Aloy Ejimakor came out with Sowore and others. They were still converging when security vehicles pulled up. They told the officers it was a peaceful protest, no arms, no violence — but the next minute, they started shooting.”

She said she took things for granted until her husband’s Facebook Live stream went off during the protest.

“Immediately the live ended, I knew something had happened. I called his phones, no answer. Later, they went off completely. The lawyers later confirmed he had been arrested.”

She said it was at that time that the legal team searched a number of police stations and finally located her husband and others at the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) office in Abuja.

She lamented: “Tell me, what has a peaceful protest got to do with SARS? SARS is for robbery and violent crimes. This is clearly an attempt to silence those demanding justice.”

“I’m not pleading; I’m demanding justice. It is his right to protest peacefully. They informed the police before the protest and agreed to avoid restricted areas. Yet, by 7 a.m., security trucks arrived and opened fire. Why? Do they want to keep him locked up like his brother for years for doing nothing?

“My children have been crying since the incident. They should release my husband. He did absolutely nothing wrong.

“At this point, can they just arrest the whole Kanu family at once? I mean, two isn’t enough!”

Nnamdi Kanu’s Brother’s Wife Laments Remand Of Husband, Ejimakor In Kuje Prison

The Source

October 23, 2025

By Charles Igbo

Three days after the remand of her husband, Emmanuel Kanu and Barrister Aloy Ejimakor along with 10 others were detained at Kuje prisons over their participation in the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow peaceful protest in Abuja, Mrs Favour Kanu, Nnamdi Kanu’s sister-in-law, has cried out over the fate of her husband.

Recall that Ejimakor, one of Kanu’s Legal Cousels, Kanu”s brother, Emmanuel, and 10 others were arrested by the Police on Monday, October 20, during the protest which was led by Omoyele Sowore, an activist, journalist and politician. They were arraigned before Kuje Magistrate Court and remanded at Kuje Prisons. The Police charged them with sundry issues including breach of peace. Their request for bail will be heard on Friday, October 24.

But Nnamdi Kanu’s sister-in- law, Favour is crying out over the arrest, arraignment, and remand of her husband husband at the Kuje prison.

In an interview with ABN TV, an outraged Mrs. Kanu said she was pained over what she described as an unjust and shocking development which culminated in the arrest of her husband.

She insisted that her husband’s only crime was that he dared exercise his constitutional right to the peaceful protest tagged

#FreeNnamdiKanuin Abuja. She said it was a peaceful call for justice but which was disrupted, violently, by security operatives who attacked the protesters by firing live ammunition and tear gas.

She said: “It’s still surprising and shocking because everything was peaceful from the beginning to the end.

She said she took things for granted until her husband’s Facebook Live stream went off during the protest.

“Immediately the live ended, I knew something had happened. I called his phones, no answer. Later, they went off completely. The lawyers later confirmed he had been arrested.”

She said it was at that yime that the legal team searched a number of police stations and finally located her husband and others at the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) office in Abuja.

She lamented: “Tell me, what has a peaceful protest got to do with SARS? SARS is for robbery and violent crimes. This is clearly an attempt to silence those demanding justice.”

“My children have been crying since the incident. They should release my husband. He did absolutely nothing wrong.

“At this point, can they just arrest the whole Kanu family at once? I mean, two isn’t enough!”

Nnamdi Kanu will open his defence Thursday, October 23 at the Honourable Justice James Omotosho’s Court having lost out in his bid to have the case against him thrown out. His Lawyer, brother and 10 others will appear at the Kuje Magistrate’s Court for the hearing of their bail request request.

PDP Convention: Ex-Minister Turaki Favoured To Replace Damagun

James Orji

October 23, 2025

A former Minister of Special Duties, Taminu Turaki is set to become the next National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, if everything goes as planned regarding the party’s National Convention slated for Ibadan, Oyo state capital next month.

The former minister is expected to succeed Umar Damagun, the current National Chairman if the Convention is allowed to hold.

The opposition party has slated November 15 and 16 for its National Convention where new officers will be elected to run the affairs of the party, except the court cancels the Convention.

A Federal High Court in Abuja is set to rule on October 31 whether the Convention should go ahead. If the judgment favours the party, Turaki will be the man to beat considering that PDP stakeholders from the 19 northern states have picked him the as the preferred candidate.

The PDP had during its recent National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja, the nation’s capital zoned the position to the north, having zoned the presidential ticket of the party to the South.

The decision of the PDP stakeholders from the region was announced on Wednesday in Abuja by Governor Umar Fintiri of Adamawa state after a meeting with key stakeholders of the party from the 19 northern states.

According to the governor, the stakeholders agreed to pick the former minister following deliberations among them, adding however that the position is still opened to any other aspirant who wants to contest the position of the National Chairman, saying the party will not prevent other aspirants from exercising their democratic rights.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholders from the North have unanimously adopted former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki (SAN) as the chairmanship candidate for the November 15 National Elective Convention of the party.

The Adamawa helmsman said the zoning arrangement is backed by the party’s Constitution

“That is what our constitution says. Anybody is still free to contest but our candidate is Turaki”, the governor stated.

There are still anxiety in the party on whether the Convention will still go ahead, as the opposition party would need to cross the legal hurdle currently before Justice James Omotosho of a Federal High court in Abuja.

Justice Omotosho had on Tuesday stated that he will deliver judgement in a suit seeking to stop the Convention over alleged violations of rules, warning the parties in the suit against unnecessary delay that could stall his judgment.

Three members of the party, the chairperson of the Imo State chapter of the party, Austin Nwachukwu; his Abia State counterpart, Amah Nnanna; and the party’s Secretary for the South-South zone, Turnah George are plaintiffs in the case.

They are asking the court to halt the planned 15 and 16 November convention of the PDP scheduled to hold in Ibadan, Oyo State, where new national officers are expected to be elected. They alleged breaches of the party’s constitution.

The nine defendants sued in the suit are the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC; the PDP; and the party’s National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu.

Others are the National Organising Secretary, Umar Bature; the National Working Committee (NWC); the National Executive Committee (NEC); the acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum; and two members of the party, Ali Odefa and Emmanuel Ogidi.

Okpebholo Sends Heads Of Edo LGs’ Administration On Compulsory Leave

Ayodele Oni

October 22, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Chairman of the Edo State Local Government Service Commission, Adjoto Kabiru, has announced that Heads of Local Government Administration (HoLGAs) across the 18 Local Government Areas in the state have been sent on compulsory leave.

Adjoto told journalists in Benin that the move was to revamp the local government administration in the state.

According to him “In line with the Shine Agenda of His Excellency Comrade Senator Monday Okpebholo, we moved around, made some observation and after our movement around the entire 18 local government, the commission met, and we have taken some decisions and those decisions, are part of what we are about to communicate to the general public.

“One of the decisions we have taken is directive to all local government administration HoLGAs to proceed on compulsory leave.

“They will proceed on compulsory leave starting from today in line with the ongoing restructuring and revamping of the local government council system aimed at strengthening administrative efficiency, promoting accountability, transparency and repositioning the local government service for improved service delivery.

“The local Government Service Commission has reviewed the existing administration framework across the councils that is, across the 18 local government council.

“Consequent upon this, the commission hereby directs all Heads of Local Government Administration across the 18 local government council to proceed on compulsory leave with effect from today.

“The measure has become very necessary to allow for thorough assessment for improved administrative operation at the local government level.

“It will also ensure a fair and objective review of posting, staff deployment and record management practices, encourage transparency and restore confidence in the local government system, provide opportunity for fresh administrative perspective as part of commission’s reform agenda.”

Adjoto further ordered the Director of Administrative and General Services to takeover and oversee the day to day administration of every local government pending further directive from the commission.

He asked all concerned officers to hand over properly and comply with this directive without delay.

While others are to go on compulsory leave, the Akoko-Edo HoLGA and its Director of Finance (DEFA) are to embark on compulsory leave and interdiction following an alleged petition leveled against them.

The chairman also stated that the commission has embarked on the digitization of the operations in the commission just as he said that training and retraining of local government staff will be pursued to the letter by this administration.

Yoruba Assembly Warn Against Coup, Says Restructuring Key To Nigeria’s Stability

Akinwale Kasali

October 22, 2025

By Akinwale Kasali

Emphasises Yoruba people may be forced to organise itself

The Yoruba Assembly has warned of dire consequences if the Military makes any attempt to stage coup in Nigeria.

The group after its extensive conference which drew over 1000 people to Lagos on Wednesday said military incursion into politics at this time has the potential of throwing Nigeria into turmoil. The group also warned about latest reports that Islamic State of West Africa is about to attack Ondo, Ekiti, Kwara and Osun States saying that the Yoruba people may be forced to organize itself to resist the invasion in their quest for survival.

The group said it is worried about armed opposition to democracy which appears to be sponsored by fascist elements who live under the illusion that the control and management of Nigerian political economy is their birth right.

“We warn military adventurists to stay away from politics. Any attempt to truncate democracy at this moment will end up creating unprecedented violence”, the Yoruba Assembly warned.

In a speech by former National Assembly Lawmaker, Hon. Wale Osun, the Yoruba Assembly said though the military denied allegations of military coup, it however noted it has been the pattern for a certain cabal in the country to destabilize democratic structures once they perceive the loss of the stronghold on the political economy.

Yoruba Assembly said military intervention at this time will scuttle the economy, undermine free speech and destroy the gains of democracy since 1999 while setting the tone for ethnic violence across the country.

The Assembly said the antidote to the lingering situation in Nigeria is to restructure the country along the pre-independence format.

The lead speaker at the conference was Hon Osun and Other speakers that included renowned journalist, Adewale Adeoye, leaders of Pan Yoruba Groups, Rasaq Arogundade, Wasiu Afolabi, Rasaq Olokooba and Taofik Adeyemi, alongside representatives from Itsekiri in Delta State, Akoko Edo, Kwara and Kogi States.

The Summit cautioned desperate politicians not to exploit the socio-political situation to instigate military coup warning that the consequences are unpredictable if the military were to stage a comeback.

The Assembly condemned the invasion and killings in Yoruba ancestral land in Kogi and Kwara States warning that the people cannot continue to tolerate the brazen assault on the culture and heritage.

On Security, the Yoruba Assembly said the marauding terrorists, bandits and criminals in-spite of diverse kinetic and non kinetic efforts of the security agencies still manage to thrive and drive fear in the citizens.

“I believe the circulating news about their activities are more real than unreal, and the Oke Ode implosion in Kwara state is a dire warning to each of the Yoruba states in our region.

“Have we not been silent witnesses to the murder of a traditional ruler, Onikoro of Ikoro in our domain? Have some communities not been overrun by these terrorists wrongfully described as herdsmen, in pursuit of a livelihood, when in reality they are a nationality alien to Nigeria in pursuit of land conquest, occupation and political domination?

The Assembly however questioned what the governors and governments of the Yoruba states are doing.

“Does any of them think or is any in a position to contemplate that he acting by himself can protect his people?

“Even when the mighty force of the Federal government and her military sometimes wary under the onslaught of these terrorists! I doubt if the governors’ many internal and external travels would allow them concentrate on tackling the issue of insecurity under their nose.

“It cannot all be the responsibility of the Central government particularly when we speak of the need and inevitability of subnational policing system that is allowed to kit its formation and stand up to the marauders. The governors working together across the country should make the issue of subnational policing become a reality and degrade the cartel that had turned the National Police Agency into more or less an occupational police”.

The Group further said it was important in resolving the issue of insecurity in Yorubaland and in providing solutions to many developmental problems that face our people is the role of traditional fathers.

“The Obas know themselves, and they must unite their acts if truly they are the custodians of our spirit and heritage. Without any delay a conference of all titular thrones in existence in 1960 to be joined by the Olubadan of Ibadan and Soun of Ogbomosho should quickly be co-convened by the Ooni of Ife and Alafin of Oyo before long.

“This should mark the beginning of positioning Yoruba traditional institutions for the ancestral roles marked out for them.

It emphasized agriculture, security and primary industrial productivity.

“Equally important is the place of Industrial Extension centers which in the days of yore, the Federal government groomed as Industrial Development Centers (IDCs) enabled states to play similar role as provided for the Agriculture Extension Centers.

The IDCs rally round potential small scale producers, masons, and furniture makers, auto mechanics operating fully from industrial parks, offer technical and investment advice, and more than often, deploy the then Bank for Commerce and Industry to support their investment activities”.

Osun further contend that at the center of governance all the indices of growth are claimed; not by the federal government alone but by international agencies who for once could see a deliberate effort to revamp the nation’s economic policies: viz a steadily growing revenue earnings, a Gross Domestic Product, marked to grow at 3.4% in 2024 and 3.8% this quarter; even if regrettably driven more by the financial services sectors rather than the real and or productive sectors.

The group identified a declining inflation which in mid 2024 was 34% but has steadily come down to 22% by September, according to the latest figures by the National Bureau of Statistics( NBS . )

“We can reel out positive figures on the Nigerian economy, but how are they being translated to growth and development felt by the ordinary citizen, rather than just stories of growth disbelieved and spurned by a grumbling populace?

“By my own assessment, the economic iron is already in a blistering furnace, what is left is the additional determination and will to ensure that all citizens benefit from the products of the blast furnace. That is all we can describe as development.’On governance in the South West states, Osun said the State Governors need to do more.

“That you need to collaborate with one another, really lean on one another to grow our region. And is the reason that each one of you should work with other interests towards supporting a complete rework of the 1999 Unitary Constitution to a Federal and regional Constitution where the federating units will have the autonomy to advance the wellbeing of their citizens”.

British Firm Injects $40 Million Into Rehabilitation Of Cocoa Plantations In Ondo

Ayodele Oni

October 22, 2025

Mr Jonny Baxter with Ondo Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa

By Ayodele Oni

British International Investment has invested over $40 million in Ondo state to rehabilitate cocoa plantations.

British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr Jonny Baxter, disclosed this on Wednesday in Akure, during a visit to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

Baxter disclosed that “Our relationship with Nigeria is now a partnership of equals.

“For instance, the British International Investment (BII) has invested over $40 million in JohnVents here in Ondo to rehabilitate cocoa plantations. We are focused on investments that will benefit both countries.”

He added that BII also provides funding to Nigerian banks to help reduce interest rates and expand credit access for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

“The aim is to make capital more affordable and accessible for Nigerian businesses. If we can reduce the cost of capital, more Nigerian institutions will grow stronger and drive economic development.”

Baxter noted that the UK government was eager to understand Ondo’s public-private partnership models and identify areas where British institutions could complement the state’s economic agenda.

Responding, Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, urged British investors to tap into the state’s abundant natural and economic resources, reaffirming his administration’s readiness to deepen development ties with the United Kingdom.

The Governor, who described Ondo as a land of vast opportunities, told the delegation that the state remains Nigeria’s largest cocoa producer, contributing about 40 per cent of the country’s total output.

The Governor noted that Ondo is endowed with bitumen, coal, gold, gas and other mineral resources, alongside expansive arable land suitable for agriculture.

“This is the land of coco. It was from cocoa that the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo developed the Western Region, building Africa’s first television station, the Cocoa House and several other infrastructures. Ondo is still leading in cocoa production today.”

Welcoming the visiting team, which included the Deputy Political Commissioner, Janet Baxter; Senior Political Adviser, Wale Adebadu; Private Sector Adviser for Finance and Investment, Ms Tevi Hake Demadi; and Digital Communication Lead, Ms Ifeoluwa Hatuludu, the Governor said the state’s population stands at 5.3 million, with a landmass of 15,500 square kilometres and a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) that is approximately ₦5.1 trillion, ranking seventh among Nigeria’s 36 states.

Highlighting the state’s strategic advantages, he noted that Ondo has the longest coastline in Nigeria, which serves as a major gateway to international trade, adding that plans were underway to develop a deep seaport to boost exports and unlock the state’s blue economy potential.

The Governor emphasised that Nigeria’s relationship with the United Kingdom had evolved from colonial and donor dependency into a partnership centred on investment and institutional collaboration.

Governor Aiyedatiwa commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reforms, noting that while the policies initially caused hardship, they had begun to stabilise the economy, enabling states like Ondo to perform better financially.

He also revealed that his administration had established a one-stop investment office to assist new investors from documentation to full operations, assuring that the state had significantly improved its security architecture to support business stability.

The Governor mentioned new projects, including a modular refinery and an upcoming chemical plant, both backed by investors working with the Ondo State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (ONDIPA).

Terror Attack Alert: Ondo Re-assures Residents, In Touch With Security Agencies

Ayodele Oni

October 22, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

The Ondo State Government has assured residents of their safety following a leaked security memo from the State Security Services (SSS) warning of possible terrorist attacks in some parts of the state.

The memo, addressed to the 32 Artillery Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Akure, listed Eriti Akoko and Oyin Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, as well as Owo town in Owo Local Government Area, as potential targets.

The Department of State Services (DSS) had stated in a memo that it’s personnel uncovered plot by terrorists to attack parts of Ondo and Kogi States by suspected fighters of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP).

This is coming after June 22 terrorists attacks of a Catholic Church, at Owo, which claimed lives and destroyed properties.

In a confidential memo dated October 20, 2025, and addressed to the Brigade Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery, Owena Cantonment, Akure, the DSS warned that credible intelligence confirmed plans by the insurgents to launch coordinated assaults on several communities.

The memo, signed by Hi Kana, Director of Security, DSS Ondo State Command, specifically listed Eriti Akoko and Oyin Akoko in Akoko North-West Local Government Area, as well as Owo town in Owo Local Government Area, as potential targets.

According to the secret service, ISWAP operatives have already commenced surveillance on soft targets in the identified areas, prompting a call for the immediate strengthening of security operations to avert tragedy.

“Intelligence confirmed plans by members of ISWAP to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Ondo and Kogi States anytime soon.

“The level of security alertness across the identified communities should be immediately scaled up to prevent loss of lives and property.”

However, in a a statement, Ondo state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Idowu Ajanaku said the government is aware of the security alert and is working closely with security agencies to prevent any attack.

According to him, necessary precautions are being taken to ensure the safety of residents, particularly those in border communities.

The government urged residents to remain calm and vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the nearest security agency.

“We want to reassure you that every measure is being taken to prevent any attack in Ondo State.

“The Ondo State government, led by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, is in constant contact with security agencies and is taking several steps to protect residents.

“The government is working to maintain peace and security in the state and appeals to residents to cooperate with security agencies and provide any information that may help prevent any threat.

“The government appreciates the importance of collaboration between security agencies and the public in preventing and responding to potential threats.

“Residents are encouraged to go about their normal daily activities while remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity to the authorities.

Bauchi Creates 14 New Emirates, Chiefdoms

Ayodele Oni

October 22, 2025

Bala Mohammed - Governor of Bauchi State — Governor Bala Mohammad

By Ayodele Oni

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has explained that the creation of additional Emirate Councils in the State is to make them serve as centre for grassroots governance, conflict resolution, and socio-economic advancement in line with the principle of leaving no one behind.

Speaking in Bauchi during the signing into law two landmark bills, namely the Bauchi State Emirates and Chieftaincies Law, 2025, and the Zaar Chiefdom Law, 2025, the governor declared that “This is not an act of politics, but of policy, not a reward for loyalty, but a recognition of merit and necessity.”

The signing of the bills held at the Government House, Bauchi, marks a defining moment in the state’s governance history as it formally creates 14 new Emirates and Chiefdoms, including the much-anticipated Zaar Chiefdom with headquarters at Mhrim.

Governor Mohammed pointed out that “We are strengthening traditional governance to promote inclusion, peace, and sustainable growth.”

He noted that the Bauchi of 2025 is vastly different from that of 1976, adding that the evolving population and governance demands require reforms that renew tradition while ensuring relevance to modern realities.

The process, the governor explained, began after numerous appeals from communities across the twenty local government areas.

“In response, the state government set up a High-Powered Committee chaired by Hamza Koshe Akuyam on July 17, 2025, to review all requests and make recommendations based on fairness, historical facts, and community consensus.

“The committee received hundreds of memoranda, conducted public hearings, and consulted with experts and traditional leaders.

“Its recommendations were later forwarded to the Bauchi State House of Assembly, which subjected the bills to extensive deliberation and public scrutiny before unanimously passing them into law.”

The Governor commended the legislature for its patriotism and partnership, describing the collaboration between the executive and legislative arms as a model of democratic governance.

The newly created traditional councils are located in Burra, Dambam, Darazo, Duguri, Gamawa, Giade, Toro, Warji, Ari, Jama’a, Lame, Bununu, Lere, and the Zaar Chiefdom.

According to him, the reform is also expected to boost local revenue generation, enhance data collection, and improve access to developmental interventions from both national and international partners.

Mohammed warned against any attempt to undermine or politicize the implementation of the new laws, stressing that peace and order must prevail.

“Any person or group found spreading misinformation or attempting to disrupt public peace will face the full consequences of the law. Leadership is a trust from Almighty Allah, and we will all account for how we use it” he said.

In addition to the chieftaincy laws, the governor also assented to two other significant bills, the Bauchi State Supplementary Appropriation Law, 2025 and the Bauchi State Local Government Contributory Pension Scheme Law, 2025 — aimed at improving fiscal responsibility and social welfare administration.

He expressed appreciation to the State Executive Council, the Akuyam Committee, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders for their support and cooperation throughout the process.

“As Bauchi State prepares to mark its 50th anniversary in 2026, the reforms serves as a gift to posterity, a foundation for inclusion, and a framework for sustainable governance that aligns with the state’s long-term development plan and the global SDG agenda.

“We have proven that reform can be done with consultation, consensus, and compassion. We did not divide our people; we brought them closer. We did not impose change; we guided it.”

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