EFCC Detains Former NCDMB Executive Over Alleged $35 Million Fraud in Brass Project

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained Timber Kesiye Wabote, the former Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), in connection with an alleged $35 million fraud related to the Brass Project. This development follows ongoing investigations into a failed refinery project for which the substantial funds were allocated.

Sources reveal that the arrest is linked to previous detention of Akintoye Adeoye Akindele, Managing Director of Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited. Akindele is under scrutiny for alleged misappropriation, money laundering, and the diversion of public funds amounting to $35 million.

Wabote is currently being held at the EFCC’s Abuja facility as investigations continue.

According to reports, Akindele was the driving force behind the Energy Infrastructure Park project, located in Okpoama Community, Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The NCDMB, under Wabote’s leadership, reportedly committed $35 million in counterpart funding to support the development of the project, which included a 2,000-barrel-per-day refinery, a jetty, gas plant, power plant, data center, and tank farm.

Wabote served as the Executive Secretary of the NCDMB from 2016 to 2023 and was actively involved in overseeing the board’s investment in the Brass Free Trade Zone (FTZ) project.

Investigative reports indicate that despite the significant funding disbursed by the NCDMB in December 2020, the project has seen minimal progress. Akindele, who received the funds to spearhead the construction, allegedly abandoned the project, raising concerns about the management of the substantial financial resources.

The EFCC’s preliminary findings reveal that during Wabote’s tenure, the NCDMB financed a total of 17 projects, including the stalled 2,000 BPD refinery and associated facilities at the Brass FTZ. The investigation aims to determine the extent of financial discrepancies and the role of those involved in the allocation and management of the funds.

This high-profile case underscores the EFCC’s commitment to probing instances of financial mismanagement in Nigeria’s energy sector as the agency continues to scrutinize the use of public resources in various development projects.

Lakurawa: Rising Terror Threat in Northwestern Nigeria Following Niger Coup

The Nigerian military has recently identified Lakurawa, a relatively new terror group, as a growing threat infiltrating Sokoto and Kebbi states from the Niger Republic, particularly after the recent coup in Nigeria’s neighboring country. Despite the recent attention, reports indicate that Lakurawa, linked to al-Qaeda, has been active since before last year’s political upheaval in Niger.

Last Thursday, Major General Edward Buba, a spokesperson for the Nigerian Defence Headquarters, highlighted Lakurawa as a significant security concern in the North-west. He noted that the group’s origins can be traced to Mali and Niger, with its emergence coinciding with the breakdown of military collaboration between Nigeria and Niger after the coup.

Though some social media narratives associate Lakurawa with the Islamic State in the Greater Sahel (ISGS), past studies suggest otherwise. A 2022 study conducted by Murtala Rufa’i, James Barnett, and Abdulaziz Abdulaziz links the group more closely with al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), rejecting associations with Boko Haram.

The Lakurawa militants, similar to Ansaru—a known al-Qaeda affiliate—often claim to protect local communities but have been involved in violent attacks on military installations and civilians deemed adversaries. They have reportedly extended their influence into areas of Kaduna, such as Birnin Gwari, raising concerns over the spread of jihadist ideologies in the troubled North-west.

In 2017, Lakurawa was initially brought into Sokoto State by local leaders from Gudu and Tangaza LGAs to counter the threats posed by Zamfarawa bandits. The group started with fewer than 50 youths but has since expanded to over 200 members, mainly young men aged 18–35, according to research by Rufa’i.

Initially welcomed by some traditional leaders to restore order, Lakurawa’s violent shift began with the murder of a Tangaza district leader who had originally supported them. Since then, they have imposed strict rules, collected “Zakat” (charitable donations), and punished those engaging in activities deemed un-Islamic, such as music and dancing.

Joint military operations in late 2018 briefly suppressed the group, but local support allowed Lakurawa to persist. Community leaders who had initially enlisted them turned against the group as their actions diverged from their stated mission.

Following the recent coup in Niger, Lakurawa’s activities have intensified, capitalizing on the weakened military cooperation between Nigerian and Nigerien forces. Their latest resurgence has been marked by a new alignment with bandits and some Fulani communities, challenging the outlawed Yan Sakai vigilante group.

Lakurawa’s evolution from a bandit-countering militia to a violent, ideologically-driven insurgency poses an ongoing challenge to Nigerian security efforts in the region. The complex ties with local communities and broader jihadist networks underscore the difficulties in fully addressing the threat they represent.

Okpella king congratulates Governor Okpebholo, prays wisdom, strength, courage

The Okuokpellagbe II of Okpella, His Royal Highness, Engr. Lukman Akemokue has congratulated Edo State Governor, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo on his swearing-in as the sixth democratically elected governor of the state

In a statement, the Okpella King says he is filled with hope and expectation as the governor embarks on this noble journey, and pray that God grants him wisdom, strength, and courage to lead Edo State to greater heights.

According to the statement, the Okuokpellagbe of Okpella admonished the governor to adopt inclusive governance for unity and progress and assemble a team of noble men who possess integrity, experience, and a passion for service that resonates his campaign slogan of a new Edo State

The monarch says Okpella Kingdom as the industrial hub of the state, looks forward to working closely with the governor to ensure prosperity and unity of Edo State.

Military Warns of New Terrorist Group ‘Lakurawa’ Recruiting in Northern Nigeria

The Defence Headquarters has issued a warning about the recruitment efforts of Lakurawa, a new terrorist group targeting youths in northern Nigeria, particularly in Sokoto and Kebbi states. According to Major General Edward Buba, Director of Media Operations, Lakurawa entered Nigeria from the Niger Republic and Mali regions, ramping up concerns in northern communities.

Last Friday, the group launched a violent attack in Mera town, Kebbi State, killing 15 people and seizing around 100 cows. The military has condemned local communities for not reporting suspicious activities, with some allegedly assisting the terrorists.

Lakurawa is reportedly attracting recruits through a combination of social media outreach, sermons, and welfare incentives. Security forces, including the military and local governments, are working to counteract these efforts.

A former DSS Director, Mike Ejiofor, clarified that Lakurawa has existed since 2018 but was relatively inactive until recently. He emphasized the need for stronger intelligence efforts and community cooperation to prevent the group from gaining ground in the region. Security expert Timothy Avele pointed out the economic hardships that make recruitment attractive and called for targeting the group’s financial and leadership structures to weaken it.

Dollar to Naira Black Market Exchange Rate for November 13, 2024

Today’s Exchange Rates

  • Buying Rate: N1730 per USD
  • Selling Rate: N1740 per USD

As of November 12, 2024, the dollar-to-naira rate in the Lagos black market stands at N1730 for buying and N1740 for selling. These rates are sourced from Bureau De Change (BDC) operators.

Please note that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) does not officially recognize the parallel market. For foreign exchange needs, the CBN advises individuals to use commercial banks.

Rising Costs in Building Materials Show 100% Increase

A new report indicates that building material prices in Nigeria have surged over the past year, with costs for essentials like cement, blocks, and paint more than doubling. The increase has been driven by supply chain issues, labor costs, and higher wholesale prices.

  • Cement: Up from ₦4,000 to ₦8,800 per bag
  • Blocks: Now between ₦550 and ₦600 per piece, from ₦250
  • Iron Rods (10mm-16mm): From ₦800,000 to over ₦1,600,000 per ton
  • Paint: Large containers rose from ₦23,000–₦25,000 to ₦46,000–₦50,000

These hikes pose challenges for the construction industry, impacting both large-scale developers and individual homeowners.

Top Nigerian News Highlights for Wednesday, November 13, 2024

1. Tinubu Directs State Funeral for Late Army Chief Lagbaja
President Bola Tinubu has ordered a state burial for the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja. The announcement was made during a condolence visit by Major General Kamal Yusuf, who shared details of the upcoming ceremony at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.

2. Saudi Crown Prince Commends Tinubu’s Economic Reforms
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia praised President Tinubu’s economic initiatives during a meeting at the Arab-Islamic Summit in Riyadh. The two leaders discussed strengthening ties in sectors like oil, gas, agriculture, and infrastructure, with plans for a $5 billion bilateral trade facility.

3. EFCC Chair Blames Corruption for Power Instability in Nigeria
EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede revealed that corruption in project contracts, particularly the use of substandard materials, is a major cause of Nigeria’s power supply issues. He stated that Nigerians would be shocked by the findings of recent investigations.

4. Oil Marketers Urge Dangote Refinery to Lower Fuel Prices
The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has called on Dangote Refinery to reduce petrol prices, claiming production costs are now less than ₦600. They argue the refinery should adjust prices due to government concessions.

5. Okpebholo and Idahosa Sworn In as Edo Governor and Deputy
Senator Monday Okpebholo and Dennis Idahosa have been inaugurated as the Governor and Deputy Governor of Edo State. The ceremony took place in Benin City, two months after Okpebholo’s election win.

6. FG Bars Flight Crew from Multiple Airline Jobs, Citing Safety
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has restricted licensed flight crew members from working with multiple airlines, citing safety concerns and adherence to specific airline SOPs.

7. Plateau Governor Dismisses Rumors of Jos Bomb Explosion
Governor Caleb Mutfwang clarified that no explosion occurred at the old Jos University Teaching Hospital. He urged responsible use of social media to avoid spreading false information.

8. Edo Governor Orders Investigation into Obaseki’s Administration
Governor Okpebholo announced a probe into the previous Edo administration under Godwin Obaseki, focusing on legislative delays and the handling of judge appointments.

9. IPMAN Confirms Plans to Lift Fuel from Dangote Refinery
The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association (IPMAN) stated they are prepared to lift petrol from Dangote Refinery, with pricing expected to be announced soon.

10. Sowore Accuses Oshiomhole of Fuel Price Hikes
Activist Omoyele Sowore alleged that former Edo governor Adams Oshiomhole collaborated with past leaders to increase fuel prices, claiming his actions contradict genuine activism principles.

For more updates, follow Nigeria Times News.

Many 2024 WAEC, NECO Candidates at Risk of Missing Admission Due to Core Subject Failures

Many candidates who sat for the 2024 National Examination Council (NECO) and West African Examination Council (WAEC) exams may face challenges gaining admission into tertiary institutions due to low pass rates in key subjects. Dr. Iyela Ajayi, the Executive Secretary of the National Senior Secondary Education Commission (NSSEC), announced that a significant number of students failed to secure the required credits in Mathematics and English, critical for admission.

Dr. Ajayi explained that 40% of NECO candidates and 28% of WAEC candidates failed to earn credits in both English and Mathematics, lowering their chances of further education. Speaking in Calabar at a workshop aimed at enhancing teaching skills, he stressed the importance of supporting teachers as the “backbone” of the education system, highlighting ongoing efforts to train teachers in these core subjects to improve student performance.

Dr. Ajayi noted, “Neglecting teacher training undermines education, which can be counterproductive to our goals.” This five-day workshop will focus on enhancing assessment techniques, collaborative skills, and pedagogical knowledge to strengthen education in Nigeria.

Bandits Destroy Over 200 Bags of Maize in Kaduna, Leaving Farmers Devastated

Farmers in Kaduna’s Birnin Gwari Local Government Area are reeling after suspected bandits invaded multiple farms, setting ablaze over 200 bags of harvested maize. The attack, which took place on Sunday night in Kwaga village and Unguwar Zako, destroyed the anticipated yields of numerous farmers.

Local reports, including a video by Daily Trust, depict the charred remains of the farms, where owners offered each other comfort in the face of overwhelming loss. Among the affected farmers is Kabiru Halilu Kwaga, who had harvested over 160 bags of maize last year and expected an even larger yield this season. Others, like Surajo Kwaga and Malam Dan Gido, also suffered total losses, with Gido’s anticipated 65-bag yield ruined by the flames.

The community has attributed this attack to bandits led by the notorious kingpin Yellow Jamboros, who has instilled fear across local villages. Ishaq Usman Kasai, Chairman of the Birnin Gwari-Niger Inter-boundaries Communities Association, confirmed the incident and expressed deep sorrow over the destruction inflicted on these farmers.

The Kaduna State government has yet to release an official statement on the incident. Meanwhile, the affected farmers are seeking solace through prayer as they cope with the destruction of their hard-earned harvests.

UK Announces 45,000 Seasonal Worker Visas for 2025 to Address Labour Shortages

The UK government has introduced 45,000 Seasonal Worker visas for 2025 to alleviate labour shortages in the agricultural and poultry sectors, essential for food production during peak seasons. This program includes 43,000 visas for horticultural roles such as fruit picking, vegetable harvesting, and flower cultivation, and 2,000 visas for poultry processing jobs available from October to December.

To qualify, applicants must be at least 18 years old, have sponsorship from a licensed UK employer, meet health and safety criteria, show sufficient funds for their stay, and possess health insurance. Visa holders are required to return home after their employment period and cannot switch to other visa types.

The Seasonal Worker visa scheme will help fill critical roles: horticultural workers focus on planting, pruning, harvesting, and packing, while poultry workers handle bird care, egg collection, and processing. Candidates must secure sponsorship before applying through the UK’s online immigration portal. Applications for poultry processing roles close by November 15, while horticulture applications remain open year-round.

To complement the scheme, the UK government will invest £50 million in agricultural automation, such as robotic harvesting, to enhance productivity and reduce dependence on seasonal labour. The visa scheme, renewed in 2024, will run until 2029, offering businesses time to adopt sustainable, technology-driven workforce solutions.

Fire Destroys FCT Minister of State’s Residence in Asokoro

A devastating fire engulfed the private residence of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, on Sunday afternoon in Asokoro, Abuja. The blaze, which took place at No. 9, Justice Roseline Ukeji Close, left the property entirely destroyed, with no items salvageable from the ruins.

Confirming the incident, Austine Elemue, media aide to the minister, expressed disappointment over the delayed response by firefighters. “The house was completely razed, and nothing could be recovered,” Elemue stated.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and authorities are expected to investigate further.

In a separate incident, a fire in Ilorin, Kwara State, destroyed a building containing approximately 25 shops. The blaze, which erupted early Saturday morning at Adeta roundabout, was swiftly managed by Kwara State fire officers, though three shops suffered significant damage due to a reported power surge.

These incidents highlight ongoing concerns over fire safety and response time in residential and commercial areas.