‘We Cannot Buy Oil From Dangote Refinery’ – IPMAN

The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has asserted that its members are still unable to purchase oil directly from the Dangote Refinery. In a recent interview, IPMAN Chairman Abubakar Maigandi clarified that they continue to rely on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for their oil supplies.

Maigandi stated that despite earlier reports suggesting the termination of NNPCL’s exclusive offtake agreement with the Dangote Refinery, the situation remains unchanged. He emphasized that the NNPCL still holds the exclusive right to purchase oil products from Dangote, while IPMAN members operate primarily in a retail capacity.

“There is no official confirmation that the NNPCL has ceased its role as a middleman in purchasing oil from the refinery,” Maigandi told BBC Hausa. He added that the NNPCL had recently requested IPMAN to send their tankers to the refinery for oil lifting, which they complied with by submitting the necessary waybills.

Maigandi highlighted ongoing discussions with Dangote Refinery leadership to facilitate future lifting operations. He reiterated that, at present, IPMAN members cannot directly buy oil from Dangote and must continue to source their products through the NNPCL.

Bandit Leader Bello Turji Calls for Negotiated Surrender Amid Intensified Government Offensive

In a surprising development, notorious bandit leader Bello Turji has requested negotiations for surrender. The move comes after a series of successful operations by Nigerian security forces, which have decimated his ranks. These operations, led by the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), have eliminated at least 76 bandit commanders and key allies of Turji.

The intensified offensive against banditry follows the restructuring of Nigeria’s intelligence agencies under President Bola Tinubu, with the appointment of Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi and Mr. Mohammed Mohammed as the new heads of the DSS and NIA. Their leadership has led to significant disruptions in the communication and operational networks of bandits in the North West and North Central regions.

Among the notable operations, several high-profile bandits, including Kachalla Lawali Dodo, Kachalla All Dan Oga, Kachalla Black, and Kachalla Sani Kwalba, have been neutralized. Security forces have also intercepted large arms caches and dismantled critical terrorist camps in states such as Kaduna, Kogi, and Niger.

The DSS’s new intelligence-driven strategies have weakened Turji’s influence, pushing him to seek negotiations as his operational capabilities dwindle. While the government has not yet confirmed whether they will engage in talks with Turji, the ongoing offensive indicates that Nigerian security forces are making considerable inroads into bandit-held territories.

With intensified pressure from the government, bandits and other criminal elements appear increasingly cornered, raising hopes for a reduction in violence in the region.

Major Marketers to Begin Direct Purchase of Petrol from Dangote Refinery as NNPC Withdraws as Sole Off-taker

Major oil marketers in Nigeria are set to begin purchasing petrol directly from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery as the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) pulls out as the exclusive off-taker of the product. This development, expected to take effect between Thursday and next week, marks a significant shift in the country’s fuel distribution.

Sources from both NNPCL and the Major Energy Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) confirmed that the decision allows other players in the downstream sector to directly access products from the $20 billion Dangote Refinery. Previously, NNPCL was the sole buyer of petrol from the refinery, shouldering subsidies estimated at N3.3 billion daily.

This shift likely signals the complete removal of petrol subsidies by the Federal Government, which had been under pressure to reduce its financial burden. On Tuesday, oil marketers received formal notification to stop buying through NNPCL and approach the Dangote Refinery directly.

While the directive has been issued, major marketers have yet to begin loading petrol from the refinery. As of now, no official prices have been released by the Dangote Refinery, though price hikes are anticipated. Industry insiders expect the price of petrol to increase significantly, with estimates suggesting a possible rise to over N1,000 per litre in some locations.

The move away from subsidized petrol means that prices will now be determined by market forces, leading to potential cost increases nationwide. This change could take full effect as early as next week, with marketers still awaiting official pricing information from Dangote.

The National Publicity Secretary of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Ukadike Chinedu, has advised Nigerians to brace for a rise in fuel prices, though there is hope that the sale of crude in naira may bring some relief to consumers.

Sporadic Shooting Erupts as Ikwerre LG Chairman Reclaims Burned Secretariat Amid Tensions

Newly elected Ikwerre Local Government Chairman, Israel Abosi, has successfully reclaimed the council secretariat in Isiokpo just hours after it was set on fire by unknown arsonists. Accompanied by his deputy, councillors, and a large group of supporters, Abosi made a bold entrance into the secretariat, backed by vigilante members who fired shots into the air as a show of strength.

The group chanted messages of solidarity, signaling their determination to overcome acts of violence and intimidation. “We will not be intimidated by acts of violence,” Abosi declared, emphasizing his commitment to serving the people of Ikwerre and advancing the local government.

The attack on the newly constructed council secretariat came after the withdrawal of police officers who had been securing Rivers State’s 23 council secretariats, leaving them vulnerable. The Emohua Local Government Council secretariat was also set ablaze in a related incident, with youths protesting and blocking access, chanting in support of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, and opposing the new chairman David Omereji from assuming office.

Tensions remain high in the area as local authorities work to restore order.

PDP Leaders Trade Blame as Party Crisis Deepens After 2023 Election Defeat

At a tense conference in Abuja, top leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) clashed over the lingering internal crisis that has troubled the party since its controversial presidential primary. The division within the PDP, Nigeria’s main opposition party, is widely seen as contributing to its defeat in the 2023 general election by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

During the event, titled “Fix PDP to Fix Nigeria,” Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, a member of the House of Representatives, blamed Nyesom Wike, current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former governor of Rivers State, for the ongoing party crisis. Ugochinyere also criticized the PDP’s Acting National Chairman, Amb. Umar Damagum, for his role in the party’s struggles, questioning why he remains in his position.

“Before we can fix Nigeria, we must fix our own leadership problems,” Ugochinyere said. He accused Wike of abandoning the PDP and working for the APC, further straining the party’s unity.

However, Ibrahim Abdullahi, the PDP’s Deputy National Publicity Secretary, directed the blame at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Abdullahi claimed Atiku’s actions had deepened the party’s fractures, including his failure to address the threats posed by the G5 governors before the election.

The public exchange of accusations reflects the deepening divisions within the PDP, raising questions about its ability to resolve internal conflicts and rebuild for future elections.

Naira Slumps Against Dollar in Parallel Market as Nigeria and Brazil Push for Direct Flights

Naira Falls Further in Black Market

As of October 8, 2024, the Naira has weakened against the US dollar in the parallel market. According to sources at Bureau De Change (BDC) in Lagos, traders buy dollars at N1670 and sell at N1680. This depreciation highlights the ongoing volatility of the Naira. However, it’s important to note that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) does not officially recognize the parallel market and advises people to use formal banking channels for foreign exchange.

Here are the updated rates for the black market:

  • Buying Rate: N1670
  • Selling Rate: N1680

Meanwhile, the CBN’s official rate for the US dollar stands slightly lower:

  • Buying Rate: N1628
  • Selling Rate: N1629

Please remember that exchange rates can vary depending on location and transaction volume.

Nigeria and Brazil Strengthen Aviation Ties With Direct Flights

In other developments, Nigeria and Brazil are gearing up to launch direct flights as part of the Bilateral Air Service Agreement (BASA). Following the directive from President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, met with the Brazilian Ambassador to Nigeria, Carlos Garcete, to accelerate the implementation of the 2018 agreement.

This collaboration, which aims to enhance economic cooperation and aviation connectivity, builds on discussions held between President Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva earlier this year.

The new direct flight routes could operate four to five times a week, promising to bolster trade and cultural exchanges between the two nations. However, Ambassador Garcete highlighted that the completion of the Open Skies Agreement is crucial for seamless flight operations.

These efforts mark a significant step in Nigeria’s global aviation strategy.

Youths Pass Vote Of Confidence On Sanwo-Olu Over Groundbreaking Developments

Youth Bureau has passed a vote of confidence on Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu for accelerating development in education, environment, Infrastructure, and transportation in the state since assuming office.

Governor Sanwo-Olu is also receiving commendations for empowering initiatives and the planned return of the monthly sanitation programme in the state.

Youth Bureau’s Advisory Chairman, Razak Olokoba gave the remarks following a periodic governance review under Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday in Abuja.

In his assessment, Olokoba described the governor as a trailblazer and leader whose legacies is impacting the country as a whole. Adding that Sanwo-Olu has set a high standard with the level of transformation going on in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

He noted that the World Bank’s recent commendation of Sanwo-Olu for the significant transformation witnessed in the state over the past five years was a clear testament that the governor is doing exceptionally well. At the same time, highlighting Sanwo-Olu’s exploits in the education sector, environmental protection, youth employment, and entrepreneurship, amongst others.
12“When a global financial institution like the World Bank is singling out a governor for praise that says a lot, and I can confirm without a doubt that Gov. Sanwo-Olu has performed in enhancing the quality of life for residents and his commitment to upgrading infrastructure to boost socio-economic development is second to none.

“Lagos State Government under his leadership is transforming the transportation landscape of Lagos, which has become a model for a modern city. The administration’s delivery of intra-city rail infrastructure and investment in waterways have greatly enhanced the state’s economic prospects.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to improving education was a central promise of his campaign and today has been actualized through the EKOEXCEL program, designed to address the learning crisis in Lagos public primary schools.

“As we talk, the program has uplifted pupils from low-income families to performance levels comparable to their peers in upper-middle-income countries. In over five years, EKOEXCEL has dramatically reduced learning poverty, transforming the educational landscape of Lagos State.
“Lagos government under Sanwo-Olu also aligned with the urgency for actions to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce carbon footprints. The signing of two waste conversion initiatives secured significant foreign investments.
The idea of returning to monthly clean-up exercises in Lagos state is a cheery development and shows that the Lagos state governor is a listening leader.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu also came up with a novel idea which has the potential to transform the fortunes of the youths. The initiative tagged, ‘EMPOWER LAGOS’ was part of economic efforts to curb youth unemployment and empower artisans, indicating that residents have the chance to learn technical and vocational skills that open the door to employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
I can confirm to you that millions of Lagosians are benefitting from this programme, jobs have been created in millions since the initiative took off, “He stated.

Infrastructure: Group Lauds Sanwo-Olu For Transforming Lagos

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been commended for raising the bar in governance and giant strides in infrastructure, education, empower initiatives as well as the planned return of the monthly sanitation program in the state.

Convener, Transparency Initiative Project Yemen Ngutor, gave the remarks following a periodic review of governance under Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday in Abuja.

In his assessment, Ngutor described the governor as a trailblazer and leader whose legacies is impacting the country as a whole. Adding Mr Sanwo-Olu has set a high standard with the level of transformation going on in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

He noted that the World Bank’s recent commendation of Sanwo-Olu for the significant transformation witnessed in the state over the past five years was a clear testament that the governor is doing exceptionally well. While highlighting Sanwo-Olu’s exploits in the education sector, environmental protection, youth employment and entrepreneurship, amongst others.

“When a global financial institution like the World Bank is singling out a governor for praise that says a lot, and I can confirm without a doubt that Gov. Sanwo-Olu has performed in enhancing the quality of life for residents and his commitment to upgrading infrastructure to boost socio-economic development is second to none.

“Lagos State Government under his leadership is transforming the transportation landscape of Lagos, which has become a model for a modern city. The administration’s delivery of intra-city rail infrastructure and investment in waterways, which have greatly enhanced the state’s economic prospects.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to improving education was a central promise of his campaign and today has been actualised through the EKOEXCEL program, designed to address the learning crisis in Lagos public primary schools.

“As we talk, the programme has uplifted pupils from low-income families to performance levels comparable to their peers in upper-middle-income countries. In over five years, EKOEXCEL has dramatically reduced learning poverty, transforming the educational landscape of Lagos State.

“Lagos government under Sanwo-Olu also aligned with the urgency for actions to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce carbon footprints. The signing of two waste conversion initiatives secured significant foreign investments.
The idea of returning to monthly clean-up exercises in Lagos state is a cheery development and shows that the Lagos state governor is a listening leader.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu also came up with a novel idea which has the potential to transform the fortunes of the youths. The initiative tagged, ‘EMPOWER LAGOS’ was part of economic efforts to curb youth unemployment and empower artisans, indicating that residents have the chance to learn technical and vocational skills that open the door to employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
I can confirm to you that millions of Lagosians are benefitting from this programme, jobs have been created in millions since the initiative took off, “He stated.

Infrastructural Devt: Women Group Brands Gov Sanwo-Olu ‘Trailblazer’

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been commended for raising the bar in governance and giant strides in infrastructure, education, empower initiatives as well as the planned return of the monthly sanitation programme in the state.

Executive Director, Women Democratic Foundation Awakulu Galadima gave the remarks following a periodic review of governance under Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday in Abuja.

In her assessment, Galadima described the governor as a trailblazer and leader whose legacies is impacting the country as a whole. Adding that Sanwo-Olu has set a high standard with the level of transformation going on in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

He noted that the World Bank’s recent commendation of Sanwo-Olu for the significant transformation witnessed in the state over the past five years was a clear testament that the governor is doing exceptionally well. At the same time, highlighting Sanwo-Olu’s exploits in the education sector, environmental protection, youth employment, and entrepreneurship, amongst others.

“When a global financial institution like the World Bank is singling out a governor for praise that says a lot, and I can confirm without a doubt that Gov. Sanwo-Olu has performed in enhancing the quality of life for residents and his commitment to upgrading infrastructure to boost socio-economic development is second to none.

“Lagos State Government under his leadership is transforming the transportation landscape of Lagos, which has become a model for a modern city. The administration’s delivery of intra-city rail infrastructure and investment in waterways, which have greatly enhanced the state’s economic prospects.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to improving education was a central promise of his campaign and today has been actualized through the EKOEXCEL program, designed to address the learning crisis in Lagos public primary schools.

“As we talk, the programme has uplifted pupils from low-income families to performance levels comparable to their peers in upper-middle-income countries. In over five years, EKOEXCEL has dramatically reduced learning poverty, transforming the educational landscape of Lagos State.

“Lagos government under Sanwo-Olu also aligned with the urgency for actions to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce carbon footprints. The signing of two waste conversion initiatives secured significant foreign investments.
The idea of returning to monthly clean-up exercises in Lagos state is a cheery development and shows that the Lagos state governor is a listening leader.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu also came up with a novel idea which has the potential to transform the fortunes of the youths. The initiative tagged, ‘EMPOWER LAGOS’ was part of economic efforts to curb youth unemployment and empower artisans, indicating that residents have the chance to learn technical and vocational skills that open the door to employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
I can confirm to you that millions of Lagosians are benefitting from this programme, jobs have been created in millions since the initiative took off, “She stated.

CSO Joins World Bank, Hails Sanwo-Olu’s Groundbreaking Achievements In Lagos

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been commended for raising the bar in governance and giant strides in infrastructure, education, empower initiatives as well as the planned return of the monthly sanitation programme in the state.

A civil society group, Pan African Society for Social and Economic Change gave the remarks following a periodic review of governance under Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday in Abuja.

In his assessment, the Executive Director of the group, Basah Mohammed described the governor as a trailblazer and leader whose legacies is impacting the country as a whole. Additionally, Sanwo-Olu has set a high standard with the level of transformation going on in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

He noted that the World Bank’s recent commendation of Sanwo-Olu for significant transformation witnessed in the state over the past five years was a clear testament that the governor is doing exceptionally well. At the same time, highlighting Sanwo-Olu’s exploits in the education sector, environmental protection, youth employment, and entrepreneurship, amongst others.

“When a global financial institution like the World Bank is singling out a governor for praise that says a lot, and I can confirm without a doubt that Gov. Sanwo-Olu has performed in enhancing the quality of life for residents and his commitment to upgrading infrastructure to boost socio-economic development is second to none.

“Lagos State Government under his leadership is transforming the transportation landscape of Lagos, which has become a model for a modern city. The administration’s delivery of intra-city rail infrastructure and investment in waterways have greatly enhanced the state’s economic prospects.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to improving education was a central promise of his campaign and today has been actualized through the EKOEXCEL program, designed to address the learning crisis in Lagos public primary schools.

“As we talk, the programme has uplifted pupils from low-income families to performance levels comparable to their peers in upper-middle-income countries. In over five years, EKOEXCEL has dramatically reduced learning poverty, transforming the educational landscape of Lagos State.

“Lagos government under Sanwo-Olu also aligned with the urgency for actions to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce carbon footprints. The signing of two waste conversion initiatives secured significant foreign investments.
The idea of returning to monthly clean-up exercise in Lagos state is a cheery development and shows that the Lagos state governor is a listening leader.

“Governor Sanwo-Olu also came up with a novel idea which has the potential to transform the fortunes of the youths. The initiative tagged, ‘EMPOWER LAGOS’ was part of economic efforts to curb youth unemployment and empower artisans, indicating that residents have the chance to learn technical and vocational skills that open the door to employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.
I can confirm to you that millions of Lagosians are benefitting from this programme, jobs are created in millions since the initiative took off, “He stated.