News From Nigeria
Business mogul, Chief Linus Obi, on Monday paid glowing tributes to President Bola Tinubu, who he described as “a man of integrity and principles”
Obi in a statement in Lagos expressed satisfaction with the level of transformation taking place in the country.
‘’President Bola Tinubu deserves commendation for promoting good governance, strengthening Nigeria’s economy, improving fiscal capacity and enhancing citizens’ quality of life.
The Igbo entrepreneur commended Tinubu for the investment in infrastructure, security, education and health in the country
‘’Even the blind can see the impressive achievements of President Bola Tinubu’’.
In the statement entitled 73 cheers to a pragmatic and purposeful leader, Obi applauded Tinubu for creating a conducive environment for businesses to flourish.
‘’President Bola Tinubu is working in the best interests of the country’’.
He lauded Mr. President for raising the bar of governance in Nigeria to enviable height, providing important political guidance on the development of the country and working selflessly for the prosperity of Nigeria.
The statement emphasized President Tinubu’s moral leadership, concern for the people, zeal for excellence and diversification of the economy.
‘’President Bola Tinubu is a true leader, bridge builder and stabilizer. He has shown excellence in governance’’
It also underscored Tinubu’s long trail of legacies in Lagos State, foreign exchange stability, oil and gas investment boom, electricity sector reforms, regional development and agriculture.
Ending the statement, Obi said ‘’Congratulations on this very important occasion, His Excellency, and may God bless you with good health, unlimited strength and long life’’
March 30, 2025
Press Statement
Eid-el-Fitr: PDP Urges Piety, Fear of God
…Charges Nigerians to Stand for Justice, Rule of Law
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) congratulates the Muslim Ummah on the successful completion of the Holy Ramadan fasting urging Nigerians to allow the divine lessons, values of love, unity, peace, patience, tolerance, restraint and total submission to the Will of the Almighty Allah among other virtues imbibed during the period to guide their daily dealings with one another.
Our Party urges Nigerians, especially those in leadership positions at all levels to re-dedicate themselves to the path of selfless service guided by love, truth, fairness, honesty and impartiality in all their activities and put away acts of corruption, arrogance, manipulation and insensitivity to the plight of the people.
Indeed, the Eid-el-Fitr offers us as a nation and humanity the divine portal to redeem our nation by standing up for justice, strict adherence to the Rule of Law and accountability in the polity.
The PDP is deeply disturbed that while citizens of other countries are celebrating the Eid-el-Fitr in plenty, Nigerians are dampened in spirit due to the unbearable hardship occasioned by the misrule of the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration which has worsened in the last two years.
Our Party however charges Nigerians not to relent but continue to apply the lessons of Ramadan in recharging their resilience, focus and love for one another in the pursuit of a God-fearing, secure and prosperous nation that we once had under the PDP administration.
The PDP calls on Nigerians to use the occasion as usual to reach out, uplift and share with one another especially the less, privilege, the displaced and those that are hurting due to one misfortune or the other so that the joy of Eid-el-Fitr can spread to all
Our Party as always prays for the nation and wishes Nigerians, especially the Muslim Ummah a happy Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
Signed:
Hon. Debo Ologunagba
National Publicity Secretary
STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU APPRECIATES NIGERIANS FOR BIRTHDAY WELL WISHES, REVEALS HE NEARLY QUIT 2023 PRESIDENTIAL RACE
President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep appreciation to Nigerians for their outpouring of goodwill and prayers as he marked his 73rd birthday.
At a special Iftar held in his honour at the Presidential Villa on Saturday night, President Tinubu thanked guests for their presence, prayers, and contributions to the nation’s development.
Acknowledging the challenges he faced on his path to the presidency, President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to advancing Nigeria’s progress.
The gathering included the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima and his wife, Nana Shettima, members of the Federal Executive Council, principal officers of the National Assembly, current and former governors, diplomats, business leaders, religious figures, and some of the President’s childhood friends.
Dr. Abdulkadir Salman Sholagberu, Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja, led special prayers seeking divine guidance and continued progress for the President and the nation.
Reflecting on his political journey, President Tinubu recounted a moment of doubt during the 2023 election campaign when he contemplated withdrawing from the race after an encounter with a close relative.
“Those close to me know that the odds were against me. During the campaigns, one of them came to my living room around 3:30 a.m. and said he needed just N50,000 to buy foodstuff for our uncle.
“He told me, ‘The currency is gone because of you. People are jumping over bank counters because there is no cash. Our uncle, a wealthy man, doesn’t even have N10,000 in cash. What are you running for?'”
“I told him, ‘I am running for President, not for you and our uncle.’ I gave him the N50,000. As he walked out, he turned to me and said, ‘I don’t think you will make it.’ I replied, ‘I will make it.'”
The President disclosed that his uncle later called to confirm receiving the money but admitted that he had only given the messenger N10,000, keeping the rest.
“I was amazed. At that moment, I almost dropped the idea of running for President. But thanks to Aminu Masari and all of you who encouraged me. When I came to Abuja, Masari told me, ‘I am the Chairman of the North West Group; don’t look back’,” he said.
President Tinubu noted that he assumed office during a time of economic uncertainty and had to make immediate, difficult decisions, including removing the fuel subsidy.
“On the day of my inauguration, I had to decide on something not originally in my speech, and that was the fuel subsidy removal,” he said.
Noting that Nigeria had reached a point of no return on the issue, the President said:
“The hallmark of a great leader is the ability to make the right decision at the right time. That was the day I declared that the subsidy was gone. The following day, I was hounded and thoroughly abused in the media. But I stood firm, knowing it was the right thing to do for our nation’s future,” he said.
Vice President Kashim Shettima lauded the President’s sacrifices, stating that history will remember him as the leader who took on the nation’s most complex challenges.
“Thanks to his boldness, future presidents of Nigeria will not have to wrestle with the same ghosts that haunted past administrations, including fraud-ridden fuel subsidies, an unstable forex market, and the suppression of local government autonomy.
“These were the thorny issues that many before him sidestepped. But Asiwaju did not sidestep history; he came to rewrite it.
“And in rewriting it, Asiwaju has taken the bullets that many before him simply lacked the courage to face. But that is the thing about true leadership: it is not for those who seek comfort. It is for those who understand that the path to national greatness is lined with difficult choices,” he said.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised the President’s ability to forgive and his relentless passion for national development.
Akpabio described the President as a leader who thinks outside the box and as the ‘most audacious president’ in the country’s history.
He said that, under Tinubu’s watch, governors are getting more allocation.
“If I were a governor under your administration, I would have been a ‘supernatural governor’ and not an uncommon governor,” he said.
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, described President Tinubu as a leader who has broken barriers and uplifted future Nigerian politicians.
He noted that the President had taken a backseat to raising leaders for decades.
“Today, he is at the forefront because Nigeria needs him. In 2019, despite not being from his region, he supported me in my most difficult political moment. Nigeria needs leaders who rise above tribal considerations, and he has demonstrated that,” he said.
Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State commended the President’s decisive leadership at a time when Nigeria needed stability.
“Only a leader with deep conviction and love for the country could have taken the bold and yet necessary decisions that averted national collapse and now restoring hope and confidence across the federation,” he said.
Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy Dr. Bosun Tijjani shared his personal experience of being appointed by President Tinubu despite his past activism.
“Before my appointment, I had never met Mr. President. But after my confirmation, he told me, ‘I have looked at your records and activism, and I am giving you an opportunity to serve,'” he said.
The minister recounted a recent meeting at the World Bank, where a senior official described President Tinubu as the best reformist leader in Africa today.
Professor Shaffideen Adeniyi Amuwo, a childhood friend of the President, reminisced about their early years and how divine providence led Tinubu to the presidency.
“Our relationship did not just start in Chicago; we played soccer together as children. While I chose the library, my brother chose politics because he loved to speak. Today, Allah has shown His greatness by guiding him to lead Nigeria.
“The city of Chicago, founded by a Black man, has educated the man who now leads the most populous Black nation on earth. I pray that Allah continues to hold his hand and guide him as he works to save our country,” he said.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
March 29, 2025
STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU APPROVES TENURE EXTENSION FOR COMPTROLLER-GENERAL OF IMMIGRATION KEMI NANNA NANDAP
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved an extension of Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap’s tenure as the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) through December 31, 2026.
Mrs Nandap began her career in the Nigeria Immigration Service on October 9, 1989.
President Tinubu appointed her as Comptroller-General on March 1, 2024, to serve till August 31, 2025.
Under her leadership, the Nigeria Immigration Service has witnessed significant advancements in its core mandate, with notable improvements in border management, modernisation of immigration processes and national security measures.
President Tinubu commended the Comptroller-General for her exemplary leadership and urged her to continue dedicating herself to the Service’s strategic priorities, which align with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Nigeria Immigration Service in fulfilling its mandate to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and promote safe, legal, and orderly migration.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
March 31, 2025
STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU RECONSTITUTES NNPC LIMITED BOARD, APPOINTS NEW CHAIRMAN, GROUP CEO
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a sweeping reconstitution of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited board, removing the chairman, Chief Pius Akinyelure and the group chief executive officer, Mallam Mele Kolo Kyari.
President Tinubu removed all other board members appointed with Akinyelure and Kyari in November 2023.
The new 11-man board has Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari as the Group CEO and Ahmadu Musa Kida as non-executive chairman.
Adedapo Segun, who replaced Umaru Isa Ajiya as the chief financial officer last November, has been appointed to the new board by President Tinubu.
Six board members, non-executive directors, represent the country’s geopolitical zones. They are Bello Rabiu, North West, Yusuf Usman, North East, and Babs Omotowa, a former managing director of the Nigerian Liquified Natural Gas( NLNG), who represents North Central.
President Tinubu appointed Austin Avuru as a non-executive director from the South-South, David Ige as a Non-executive director from the South West, and Henry Obih as a non-executive director from the South East.
Mrs Lydia Shehu Jafiya, permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance, will represent the ministry on the new board, while Aminu Said Ahmed will represent the Ministry of Petroleum Resources.
All the appointments are effective today, April 2.
President Tinubu, invoking the powers granted under Section 59, subsection 2 of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, emphasised that the board’s restructuring is crucial for enhancing operational efficiency, restoring investor confidence, boosting local content, driving economic growth, and advancing gas commercialisation and diversification.
President Tinubu also handed out an immediate action plan to the new board: to conduct a strategic portfolio review of NNPC-operated and Joint Venture Assets to ensure alignment with value maximisation objectives.
Since 2023, the Tinubu administration has implemented oil sector reforms to attract investment. Last year, NNPC reported $17 billion in new investments within the sector. The administration now envisions increasing the investment to $30 billion by 2027 and $60 billion by 2030.
The Tinubu administration targets raising oil production to two million barrels daily by 2027 and three million daily by 2030. Concurrently, the government wants gas production jacked to 8 billion cubic feet daily by 2027 and 10 billion cubic feet by 2030.
Furthermore, President Tinubu expects the new board to elevate NNPC’s share of crude oil refining output to 200,000 barrels by 2027 and reach 500,000 by 2030.
The new board chairman, Ahmadu Musa Kida, is from Borno State. He is an alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he received a degree in civil engineering in 1984. He also obtained a postgraduate diploma in petroleum engineering from the Institut Francaise du Petrol (IFP) in Paris
He started his career in the oil industry at Elf Petroleum Nigeria and later joined Total Exploration and Production as a trainee engineer in 1985.
Musa became Total Nigeria’s Deputy Managing Director of Deep Water Services in 2015. Last year, he became an Independent Non-Executive Director at Pan Ocean-Newcross Group.
Apart from his oil industry career, Ahmadu Musa Kida is a former basketballer and the president of the Nigerian Basketball Federation(NBBF) board.
Ojulari, the new NNPC Limited Group CEO, hails from Kwara State. Until his new appointment, He was Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Renaissance Africa Energy Company. His Renaissance recently led a consortium of indigenous energy firms in the landmark acquisition of the entire equity holding in the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC), worth $2.4 billion.
Like Kida, Ojulari is also an alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He worked for Elf Aquitaine as the first Nigerian process engineer to begin a stellar career in the oil sector. From Elf, he joined Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd in 1991 as an associate production technologist.
Apart from working in Nigeria, he worked in Europe and the Middle East in different capacities as a petroleum process and production engineer, strategic planner, field developer, and asset manager. In 2015, he became the managing director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCO).
During his career, he was chairman and member of the board of trustees of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE Nigerian Council) and a fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers.
President Tinubu thanked the old board members for their dedicated service to NNPC Limited, particularly their efforts in rehabilitating the old Port Harcourt and Warri refineries, which enabled them to resume petroleum product production after prolonged shutdowns. He wished them well in their future endeavours.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
April 2, 2025
Nigerian women task Tinubu on Akpoti-Uduaghan
Nigerian women on Monday spoke out against the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the signatures to recall the Kogi Central representative.
“This is the example of tyranny, harsh and unfair decisions”
They also asked President Bola Tinubu and Senator Godswill Akpabio to use their good offices to protect and defend the rights of women in Nigeria.
“The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan disgusted many people. The dispute in the senate caused much doubt about the honesty of male politicians in the country”
The influential women reformers at a meeting to discuss the social, civil and religious conditions and rights of women in Nigeria urged the senate to lift the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan.
‘It has been established that suspension and recall processes are not appropriate responses to disagreement concerning a senate president and a member of the senate.
They called upon God to afflict people behind Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recall processes with madness and imbecility.
Particularly, the women condemned the violation of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s rights and the treatment of women politicians as children and instruments of emotional satisfaction in the country’s politics.
Chairperson of South-South Women Rights Movement, Mrs Alice Anene presented the stance of the women to local and foreign journalists.
The highly intelligent and spirited women advised Akpabio to conduct himself honourably as Senate president.
“Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is a great fighter and remarkable public servant. She is also the most trusted and best informed person to ever represent Kogi Central”
The crusaders of women rights denounced the plot by desperate chieftains of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to get rid of Akpoti-Uduaghan.
“They hired fake people and poured money into destroying Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan”
The women argued that the recall process was not necessary because it might lead to more harm than good for women, Kogi Central and the nation’s democracy.
“History is recited in favour of those who have won. But in this case, recall agitators and those behind the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan Uduaghan should be ashamed of themselves”
The Joint Congress of the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU) and the Amalgamated Union Public Corporations, Civil Service, Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE) on Thursday expressed deep concerns over the troubling state of affairs at the National Theatre Complex.
‘’At the inception of the renovation of the National Theatre, the then Honourable Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, assured all stakeholders, including organized labour that the renovation would be completed within eighteen months and that no single job would be lost as a result of the process. These assurances were meant to inspire confidence, safeguard institutional integrity and protect workers’ rights during the transformational phase of this iconic national asset. However, five years after the commencement of the said renovation project, we regret to inform you that these promises have remained largely unfulfilled and the realities on the ground are now completely at variance with the assurance given’’
They also condemned the denial of access to designated offices within the National Theatre complex.
‘’This continued restriction has not only affected administrative productivity but has also subjected our members to psychological discomfort, professional displacement and operational stagnation. The absence of access to official workspaces is in direct contradiction to earlier commitments and undermines the fundamental principles of fairness and workplace inclusion’’
At a world press conference in Lagos, the Labour Unions lamented the sidelining of the management of the National Theatre, particularly the General Manager/Chief Executive Officer.
‘’The General Manager is often not informed about high-level visits and official tours within the complex. A recent example is the visit of the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the delegation recently. Such visits occurring without the knowledge of the substantive management, represents a serious breakdown in institutional protocol, coordination and transparency. This anomaly has become recurrent and portends a threat to the autonomy and operational integrity of the management structure of the National Theatre’’.
The stance of the unions was presented to journalists in Lagos by Comrade Ishola Adejumo, RATTAWU Chairman, Lagos State, Comrade Bimbola Oluyeye, RATTAWU Secretary, Lagos State, Comrade Olatunji Omodolapo, AUPCTRE Chairperson and Comrade Omotola Babatunde, AUPCTRE Secretary.
‘’The National Theatre is the nation’s heritage and it will be not be ceded to any person or groups as some have chosen to frame it. That the renovation is to restore the National Theatre back to its former glory and it will cost N25, billion to do that. That no single job will be loss as more jobs will be created’’ the unions recollected the words of Alhaji Lai Mohammed.
They said workers were abandoned in the course of the memorandum of understanding signed by Lai Mohammed and the then Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr Godwin Emefiele.
Particularly, the unions decried the inhibition of internally organized programmes despite official payments.
‘’Equally troubling is the recurring refusal to allow National Theatre Staff and departments to organize internal programmes within the complex, even when such programmes have been duly approved and paid for through the Treasury Single Account (TSA). This deliberate suppression of legitimate institutional programing not only affect revenue generation but also contradict the very essence of the National Theatre as a hub for cultural expression and creativity’’
NEC/OHC/250314
March 15th, 2025
OKAKURO ROBERT ONOME SHOULD ATTEND TO FEDERAL HIGH COURT CONTEMPT PROCESS INSTEAD OF SHOPPING FOR FORA TO SAVE HIMSELF
The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union had an Emergency Meeting on March 15, 2025 to deliberate on the outcome of the application by Okakuro Robert Onome, former President General of the Okpe Union at the Delta State High Court, Orerokpe.
Background
On October 3, 2020, HRM Orhue I, Orodje of Okpe, purportedly dissolved the elected NEC of the Okpe Union which was then headed by Okakuro Robert Onome and imposed his own Interim National Executive led by one Prof. Emurobome Idolor. As Okakuro Onome had just then been appointed by the Orodje as the District Head of Ughoton District (which made him a sub-traditional ruler), he, rather than protecting the autonomy of the Okpe Union according to hi its Constitution, opted to publicly support the taking over of the administration of the Okpe Union by the palace and pledged to work with the Interim Executive that the Orodje had imposed. The Interim Executive in turn appointed Okakuro Onome as one of the trustees of the Okpe Union which they submitted to the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
Following the purported dissolution by the Orodje, members of NEC previously headed by Okakuro Onome before his abdication of office and betrayal, resolved to abide by the provisions of the Okpe Union Constitution by rejecting the attempt to take over the administration of the Union by the palace. Mr. Patrick Akpotor, the next in hierarchy, according to the Okpe Union Constitution, assumed the position of Acting President General and presided over the already fixed General Assembly of the Okpe Union which took place on November 14, 2020. The General Assembly, being the highest decision making organ of the Union resolved to reject the attempted take-over of the Okpe Union by the palace; directed the elected NEC to complete its tenure; set up an Electoral Committee to organise elections as soon as the tenure completes and also directed the NEC, headed by Mr. Akpotor, (who was Deputy to Okakuro Onome), to seek legal redress over the actions of the Orodje if mediation fails.
On May 15, 2021, a new NEC headed by Prof. Igho Natufe was elected at the expiration of the tenure of the NEC that the Orodje purportedly dissolved. Rather than recognising the new executive, the palace continued funding the imposed faction to undermine the newly elected leadership. As three different attempts to get the Orodje to understand that his interference in the administration of the Okpe Union was unlawful failed, the Prof. Natufe led NEC opted to implement the General Assembly resolution to seek legal redress at the Federal High Court, Lagos which gave judgment on January 19, 2023 in favour of the elected NEC. Incidentally, the illegal faction had surreptitiously procured a new certificate for the Okpe Union with a new Board of Trustees which included Okakuro Onome (the former President General that abdicated office). The illegal Interim Executive had also in anticipation of a loss in the Federal High Court case arranged a kangaroo election and handed over to another group headed by Okakuro Joseph Aboze. The Prof. Natufe led leadership promptly filed an application before the Federal High Court, Abuja, which the illegal group had approached to authorise the appointment of the trustees. The Abuja Court vacated the authorising order, nullified the Board of Trustees and directed the CAC to expunge their names (including Okakuro Onome), from the records of the CAC relating to the Okpe Union.
After the illegal faction represented by Prof. Emurobome Idolor led group and later Okakuro Joseph Aboze stepped aside in response to the judgment of the Federal High Court, Lagos and the ruling of the Federal High Court Abuja, Okakuro Onome declared himself President General describing himself as the beneficiary of the judgment of the Federal High Court, Lagos. He filed a case at the Delta State High Court, Orerokpe, asking the court to interpret the judgement of the Federal High Court, Lagos in his favour and claimed that six of the members of the current NEC led by Prof. Natufe are also part of his EXCO.
As a law-abiding organisation, the Okpe Union led by Prof. Natufe entered an appearance at the Orerokpe High Court. In response to Okakuro Onome parading himself as President General of the Okpe Union after his tenure had ended on November 16, 2020, and the tenure of the NEC after him is even nearing completion, the Prof. Natufe leadership got the process of Contempt of Court (Form 48) of the Federal High Court, Lagos, which gave the judgement over which he seeks interpretation, served on him so that he would be at the proper forum to argue that he is the beneficiary of the judgment. It is therefore shocking that the Delta State High Court, Orerokpe, has given a ruling on March 14, 2025, endorsing Okakuro Onome as President General. In light of the above, the NEC of the Okpe Union, at its Emergency Meeting on March 15, 2025, reviewed the events at the Delta State High Court, Orerokpe and resolved as follows:
NEC Resolutions
Okpe! Agbamueni!
Long live Okpe Union.!
Long live Okpe Kingdom!
Long live the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom!
Prof. Igho Natufe
President General, Okpe Union (Worldwide).
Barr. Kingsley Ehensiri Akpederin
General Secretary, Okpe Union (Worldwide).
Julius Berger marks International Women’s Day with calls for action on gender equality
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc marked International Women’s Day (IWD) with events in Abuja, Lagos, Warri, Port Harcourt, and Uyo, reinforcing its commitment to gender equality and workplace inclusion. In a display of companywide unity, employees across these locations gathered for keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive sessions under the global theme #AccelerateAction for Gender Equality, with a focus on allyship and leadership.
Gathered at the event were leaders from financial services, the Nigeria Institute of Quantity Surveyors, and regional and functional heads from Julius Berger, all reinforcing the shared responsibility of advancing gender equality. The Director General of the NIQS Foundation, Dr. Celestina Eke, delivered the keynote speech at the Abuja event, while Alhaji Dr. Abdulaziz Kaita, Julius Berger’s Director of Administration, underscored the company’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and progress.
Eke, speaking on men as allies, called for a shift beyond affirmative action to transformative change. Gender equality is not just a women’s issue; it is a strategic imperative for economic growth, sustainable development, and global competitiveness,”she said; adding, for real progress, we must move from support to action. Allyship is not about stepping aside, it is about stepping up. It requires men to use their influence, privilege, and leadership to challenge biases, break barriers, and drive systemic change.
She praised Julius Berger for excelling not only in infrastructure and engineering but in fostering diversity and empowerment. She described the IWD movement as a call to rethink, reimagine, and reconstruct the foundations of industry, institutions, and society.
Alhaji Dr. Abdulaziz Kaita did not mince words in affirming the importance of International Women’s Day and the role of women in every society. Today, we celebrate the countless contributions of women in every sphere of life—politics, science, business, arts, sports, education, and within our own families. We honour the trailblazers who have shattered ceilings and defied expectations, as well as the everyday heroes—mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends—who uplift and inspire us daily, Kaita said.
While acknowledging the progress made, Kaita called for continued reflection and action. Women still face barriers to leadership, unequal pay, and gender-based violence. In some parts of the world, access to education and healthcare remains a distant dream for many girls, he said.
In Lagos, a panel of female leaders within Julius Berger explored how women can balance professional growth with family responsibilities while embracing leadership opportunities. The discussion, featuring senior figures from commercial, legal, and engineering functions, emphasized the strengths women bring to the workplace, particularly in multitasking and strategic decision-making.
Senior Executive Manager, Ndifreke Nkocho encouraged women to speak up, seek mentorship, and create support networks, proposing regular forums for women to discuss career challenges and development opportunities.
In Warri, employees took part in an engaging keynote session, team-building games, and a sip-and-paint activity, reinforcing the spirit of empowerment and unity. The Branch Manager of UBA Warri-Sapele Road, Mrs. Abimbola Erivona, shared her personal journey navigating the corporate world, highlighting both the challenges and triumphs of leadership as a woman. She urged attendees to strive for excellence and embrace opportunities for career growth.
Julius Berger ensured that female employees across all regions had time to celebrate the global event, with activities in Warri, Port Harcourt, Uyo, Lagos, and Abuja. The company’s commitment to diversity, equity, and leadership development continues to shape its workplace culture, as its women reaffirmed their resolve to break barriers and accelerate action for progress.
In an industry historically dominated by men, particularly at senior leadership levels, the comprehensive engagement seen across Julius Berger’s IWD events underscored the company’s commitment to shifting that narrative. From candid discussions on career advancement to calls for greater allyship and systemic change, the event went beyond celebration; it reinforced the urgency of action. As Nigeria continues to push for greater representation of women in leadership, Julius Berger’s efforts serve as a reminder that progress requires deliberate and sustained commitment.
Niger Delta women on Wednesday decried human rights abuses and disrespect for women in the country.
They also called the suspension of the senator Representing Kogi Central, Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan ‘’silly and callous’’.
“This is the height of wickedness. We cannot agree with the Senate Ethics Committee.”
The women in a statement in Calabar denounced the Senate leadership and demanded that the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan be lifted immediately.
“The presiding officer is difficult and dictatorial. He is well known for his contemptuous, dismissive and sarcastic ways. His leadership style is causing dissention and distress.”
The statement issued in Calabar by the Chairperson of Niger Delta Women Forum (NDWF), Mrs. Comfort Bassey, accused the Senate President of undermining family ties and resisting the voice of honour and reason.
“We conjure you to look into your heart and to hearken to the secret voice of conscience.”
The highly respected women applauded Akpoti-Uduaghan for taking significant steps to improve the quality of life for the people of Kogi Central.
“Your courage is an inspiration to all of us.”
Principally, the women accused some male political office holders of abusing the human rights of women and harming national, ethnic and religious groups in the country.
The statement denounced arbitrary rules, culture of betrayal and ferocious spirit of despotism.
“The Senate is not a place in which leaders get away with being mean and nasty.
It also condemned trace of bitterness, vicious, crude and inhuman punishments.
Two respected families in the South-South geo-political zone on Monday highlighted the humble background, personality and contributions of Chief Veronica Ekpera Ebireri to the country.
‘’It is no gain-saying that Chief Veronica Ekpera was an epitome of kindness’’
The prominent Agbon and Okpe families in a statement entitled ‘’ The life and works of a pragmatic woman, transporter, saw miller, fish and rice dealer ’’ highlighted Veronica Ebireri’s extraordinary life, pleasant upbringing of many and all she did to instill self-respect in her children.
‘’Throughout her sojourn, Mrs. Veronica Ebireri led an exemplary and worthy life. She gave her life serving others’’
The statement delivered on behalf of the families of Ebireri and Umukoro by Media and Political Consultant, Henry Ovie Ebireri applauded Chief Veronica Ekpera Ebireri for performing her duties as daughter, wife, mother and sister excellently.
The statement recalled her words and the few times she raised her voice.
‘’When the Chief Executive Officer of Oghene-Ochuko Motors died, many people dropped tears. They felt the deep vacuum that her unfortunate death created’’
The modest and humble daughter of a proud Agbon parents, Chief Veronica Ebireri married a highly respected Niger Delta business tycoon, Chief Festus Omajemite Ebireri.
The statement applauded Chief Veronica Ekpera Ebireri for displaying great energy and zeal as a businesswoman.
‘’Mrs. Veronica Ebireri was ambitious, her eyes on the big chance for economic advancement’’
The statement praised her for shouldering the responsibilities of the Ebireri, Umukoro, Diegholo, Ochu and Erove families.
The statement emphasized moral integrity, her sense of responsibility towards the husband, sisters, brothers, children and grandchildren.
The statement highlighted her contributions to her native Agbon Kingdom, problems and the tragedies after her demise.
The families also expressed shock at the recent legal action of cousins and grandchildren over the possessions of Veronica Ebireri and Oyavbewe Diegholo, describing the action of these people as another aspect of greed and madness.
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the Senate President Mr Godswill Akpabio to “immediately rescind the patently unlawful suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, as the purported suspension is based solely on the peaceful exercise of her constitutionally and internationally recognized right to freedom of expression.”
SERAP said, “The Senate should immediately reinstate Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan, and revise parliamentary procedures that unduly restrict senators’ human rights.”
The Senate last week suspended Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, after she reportedly ‘spoke without permission’ and ‘refused her new seat in the upper legislative chamber.’ Her salary and allowances will not be paid for the duration of the suspension and she was banned from representing herself as a senator.
In the open letter dated 8 March 2025 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “No one should ever be punished for ‘speaking without permission’. Being a senator does not deprive Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan of her fundamental human rights.”
SERAP said, “The Senate should be setting an example by upholding the rule of law and promoting and protecting fundamental human rights, not stamping them out.”
According to SERAP, “Punishing Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan solely for peacefully expressing herself is unlawful, unnecessary and disproportionate. Her suspension would also have a disproportionate chilling effect on the ability of other members of the Senate to freely express themselves and exercise their human rights.”
SERAP also said, “Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension is based solely on the peaceful exercise of her right to freedom of expression in the Senate. All the other grounds cited by the Senate for her suspension seem to be a pretext to further restrict her fundamental human rights.”
The letter, read in part, “We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 48 hours of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel you and the Senate to comply with our requests in the public interest.”
“Any application of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 by the Senate must conform with constitutional and international human rights norms and standards relating to freedom of expression and should not jeopardise the right itself.”
“Suspending Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan for peacefully exercising her right to freedom of expression has made her opinion in the Senate ineffective.”
“No member of the Senate should suffer any consequences for peacefully exercising their freedom of expression. A higher degree of tolerance is expected when it is a political speech and an even higher threshold is required when it is directed towards government officials including members of the Senate.”
“The unlawful restriction of Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan’s right to freedom of expression has indirectly violated Nigerians’ right to receive information and ideas and seriously undermined the right of her constituency to political participation.”
“Given the impracticality of direct participation of all citizens, article 13 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights provides that a citizen shall exercise political power either directly or through freely chosen representatives.”
“The suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Senate has restricted and seriously undermined the ability of the residents of her Kogi Central Senatorial District to effectively participate in their own government. The suspension therefore constitutes a violation of article 13 provisions.”
“The Senate has the obligations to uphold the rule of law and the provisions of section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution and Nigeria’s obligations under article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.”
“Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] provides that, ‘(1) Every person shall be entitled to freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference.’”
“Under Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights: ‘1. Every individual shall have the right to receive information. 2. Every individual shall have the right to express and disseminate his opinions within the law.’”
“Article 9 (1) and (2) are substantively similar because the right ‘to receive information’ is derived from the ‘right to express and disseminate’ one’s opinions.”
“The Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression in Africa, in Principle II (2) provides that ‘any restrictions on freedom of expression shall be provided for by law, serve a legitimate interest and be necessary and in a democratic society’.”
“Article 13 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights provides that, ‘Every citizen shall have the right to participate freely in the government of his country, either directly or through freely chosen representatives in accordance with the provisions of the law.’”
“The right to express one’s opinion is of paramount importance, not only because it oils the engine of a representative democracy but also because it creates a free and open environment.”
“The right to freedom of expression is a fundamental individual human right which is also a cornerstone of democracy and a means of ensuring the respect for all human rights and freedoms.”
“The Human Rights Council, the body charged with monitoring implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights has stressed that any limitations or restrictions to freedom of expression should be applied strictly so that they do ‘not put in jeopardy the right itself.’”
“Article 19(1) of the Covenant establishes the right to freedom of opinion without interference. Article 19(2) establishes the Senate’s obligations to respect and ensure ‘the right to freedom of expression,’ which includes the freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, either orally or in writing.”
“The Senate Standing Orders 2023 (as amended) should not and cannot set aside Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan’s right to express herself and disseminate her opinions which is clearly guaranteed in section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended], and under the human rights treaties to which Nigeria is a state party.”
“According to our information, Mrs Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was recently suspended for allegedly speaking without permission. She was also accused of “persistent acts of misconduct, blatant disregard for the provisions of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 and gross indiscipline.”
“Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan was found guilty of violating Sections 6.1 and 6.2 of the Senate Rules including repeated violations of legislative decorum, such as allegedly speaking without being recognised by the presiding officer in clear violation of parliamentary practices and procedures and refusing to sit in her assigned seat during plenary on 25th February 2025, and an act of open defiance.”
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
9/03/2025
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
Abuja, the capital city of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is now aglow.
The smart leaf solar streetlight was installed in the Federal Capital Territory last week.
‘’The smart leaf solar streetlight has changed outdoor lighting in Abuja, particularly the Airport roundabout’’ a statement Friday said.
The statement issued by the Managing Director of Akogate Group, Mr. Felix Aganbi, stressed the efforts of the company to brighten Nigeria through high quality customized solar solutions.
Aganbi said the company got franchise from the SunMaster Solar Lighting Company Limited, the most professional and reliable solar LED lights manufacturer in the global market in 2025.
‘’Jinhua SunMaster Solar Lighting Company Limited is a Zhejiang based enterprise specialized in supplying solar streetlights, solar garden lights, wind & solar hybrid lights, small & medium solar generating system, solar home lighting system and solar pump system’’.
He emphasized the gains of alternative sources of electricity supply, the features, benefits, and applications of Smart Leaf solar streetlights as well as the desire of Akogate Engineers to light all the streets in the country.
He explained that streetlight was one of the priorities of the current administration.
‘’We supply high quality solar streetlights, solar garden lights, wind and solar hybrid lights, mobile solar lights towers and solar pump system’’
He also stressed on facilities for catching the rays of the sun and converting their energy to electrical power.
‘’Smart Leaf solar streetlights integrate advanced technology with sustainable design to offer superior performance and reliability in urban and rural settings.
Aganbi explained how these innovative lights leverage smart technology to optimize energy usage, enhance illumination, and improve overall functionality.