FG Dispatches CNG Conversion Kits to States, Boosts Autogas Initiative

The federal government of Nigeria, through the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGi), has begun distributing auto gas conversion kits to various states. This initiative aims to provide a more affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to petrol.

Key Details:

  • Distribution: The kits were dispatched from a NIPCO warehouse in Ibafo and are being delivered to states including Abuja, Kaduna, Lagos, and Ogun.
  • Cost and Savings: The government has set the price of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) at N230 per litre, compared to the current petrol price of up to N900 per litre. This move is intended to ease the financial burden on Nigerians, especially those in the transport sector.
  • Objective: The initiative targets the conversion of 1 million vehicles over the next 18 months. The program will offer free conversion kits and installation to commercial vehicles involved in transporting people, food, and goods.
  • Environmental Benefits: CNG is noted for being a cleaner fuel compared to petrol, which not only helps reduce emissions but also extends the lifespan of vehicles.
  • Implementation: The rollout is part of a broader energy diversification strategy, aiming to offer immediate relief to Nigerians and support the transition to more sustainable fuel options.

This initiative, launched under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the high cost of fuel and promoting cleaner energy solutions.

Peter Obi Criticizes Tinubu’s Subsidy Removal; Claims Government May Soon Charge for Air

Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its handling of subsidy removal reforms. Obi expressed concerns that the government might extend its subsidy cuts to essential services, jokingly suggesting they might even charge for air.

In an interview with News Central TV, Obi demanded transparency regarding the allocation of subsidy funds, stating, “We need to know where the removed subsidies are being redirected. It seems like everything is being stripped away—petrol, electricity—soon they might charge us for air if they had the chance.”

Obi’s remarks come amid ongoing debates about the impact of subsidy removals on Nigerians. He emphasized the need for clear accountability from the government.

Meanwhile, Yunusa Tanko, a prominent figure in the Labour Party, defended Obi against criticisms from APC spokesman Felix Morka. Tanko accused the APC of failing to address Nigeria’s issues and misleading the public. He pointed out ongoing problems like high rice prices and inadequate infrastructure, asserting that these issues are not caused by Obi.

Tanko also addressed claims that the government sponsors bandits, highlighting recent violence in Zamfara and other states. He argued that the APC’s attempts to shift blame onto Obi are misguided and unacceptable.

Tanko’s comments reflect ongoing tensions and dissatisfaction with the current administration’s handling of national challenges.

Peter Obi Open to Vice Presidency and Collaboration with Kwankwaso for 2027 Elections

Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has expressed his openness to collaborating with other politicians, including former NNPP presidential candidate Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, for the 2027 elections. Obi emphasized that any collaboration must focus on improving the lives of citizens rather than mere political gains.

In an interview with News Central, Obi stated, “I’m ready to collaborate with anyone interested in lifting people out of poverty. Collaboration must not be for state capture or just to win elections. It must be about addressing critical issues such as education and poverty alleviation.”

Regarding the possibility of serving as vice president, Obi mentioned he is willing to accept such a role if he believes someone else is more capable of leading. He clarified, “I am not desperate to be the Nigerian president. My priority is to see Nigeria function effectively. If someone else can do the job better, I am open to supporting them in any capacity.”

Obi also reaffirmed his commitment to the Labour Party, indicating he has no plans to leave the party and remains focused on collaborative efforts aimed at national progress.

Erling Haaland Clinches Premier League Player of the Month for August 2024

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has claimed the Premier League Player of the Month award for August 2024, following a blistering start to the new season. Haaland outperformed competitors such as Mohamed Salah, Bryan Mbeumo, Amadou Onana, Cole Palmer, David Raya, Bukayo Saka, and Danny Welbeck.

Haaland netted seven goals in just three games, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s top players. He now leads the race for the Golden Boot, four goals ahead of rivals Salah, Noni Madueke, Mbeumo, and Luis Diaz, who each have three goals.

His impressive form has been instrumental in maintaining Manchester City’s perfect start to the 2024-2025 season, with the team yet to drop any points after three matches. Upcoming fixtures against Brentford and Arsenal, alongside a Champions League clash with Inter Milan, will see Haaland’s contribution remain pivotal for City.

Kidnapped Babcock University Staff Regains Freedom After Abduction in Ogun State

A 66-year-old widow and Assistant Chief Nursing Officer at Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Elizabeth Uruakpa, has been freed after being abducted in the Ilisan Remo area of Ogun State. Uruakpa was kidnapped last week by armed men while returning from a church service.

She was reportedly dropped off at the university’s gate on Thursday, with police confirming her release and ongoing treatment at the hospital. Although reports suggest the kidnappers demanded ₦50 million in ransom, the exact amount paid remains unknown. An investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Notorious Bandit Turji Attacks Ex-Minister Pantami and Islamic Cleric in New Video

In a recent video, notorious bandit Bello Turji launched verbal attacks against former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, and Sokoto-based Islamic cleric, Murtala Asada. Turji criticized Asada, who has consistently condemned the bandit’s activities and urged the government to take stronger action against him.

Turji sarcastically suggested that the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, appoint Asada as a military commander, mocking his criticism. In response, the Chief of Defence Staff assured that the military was closing in on Turji and would soon capture him alive.

Turji also accused Pantami of hypocrisy, referring to an old video where Pantami allegedly labeled government officials as non-believers. Pantami had faced public outcry in 2021 over past extremist comments, although the presidency defended him, stating his views had evolved.

Turji has been responsible for numerous attacks across northwestern Nigeria, including killings, kidnappings, and cattle rustling. His group recently looted an armoured vehicle abandoned by military forces in Zamfara State and has carried out deadly raids in Sokoto.

Embrace Technology and Innovation to Tackle Insecurity, Lagbaja Urges Soldiers

Lt. General Toareed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has urged the Nigeria Army to prioritize technology and innovation in addressing the nation’s security challenges. Speaking at a seminar titled “Leveraging Digital Transformation for Enhanced Operational Effectiveness in the Nigerian Army Operations Safe Haven (OPSH) in Perspective,” Lagbaja emphasized the necessity for officers to adapt to the evolving operating environment.

Represented by Major General Abdusalam Abubakar, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3rd Division and Commander of OPSH, Lagbaja highlighted the critical role technology plays in advancing military operations. He commended OPSH for their contributions toward ensuring national security.

“It is essential to understand that transformation involves more than just adopting new technologies; it requires fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability in a rapidly changing environment,” he remarked. Lagbaja expressed his delight that junior and mid-level officers, who are key to driving technological progress within the Army, were the primary participants in the seminar.

NNPC and Dangote Refinery in Final Talks for Naira-Based Crude and Product Deal

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and Dangote Petroleum Refinery are finalizing discussions on a crude oil sales agreement in naira, alongside a product buy-back arrangement in local currency. This deal involves NNPC supplying crude oil to the Dangote refinery, while refined products will be bought back by NNPC. Devakumar Edwin, Dangote Industries’ Vice President of Oil and Gas, announced that discussions may conclude next week.

The collaboration aims to address Nigeria’s foreign exchange challenges. Aliko Dangote emphasized his willingness to accept losses for the nation’s benefit by conducting transactions in naira. However, the refinery faces challenges with local oil marketers boycotting its diesel, despite Dangote lowering prices. As a result, the refinery has been forced to export its diesel and aviation fuel, with little patronage domestically.

Edwin also revealed that NNPC will station a permanent team at the Dangote refinery to oversee production. Despite the struggles, the refinery remains capable of meeting Nigeria’s petrol demand, with the first local petrol delivery expected soon. However, Edwin noted that marketers continue to import fuel, limiting the refinery’s local sales.

In response to these challenges, Dangote has begun exporting petroleum products and may continue to do so if local demand remains low.

NERC Fines Abuja Electricity Company N1.69bn for Overbilling Customers

The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has imposed a fine of N1.69 billion on the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) for overbilling its customers. The penalty was issued as part of NERC’s September 2024 Supplementary Order, detailed in Order NERC/2024/114, and published on NERC’s website on Thursday.

According to NERC, the fine stems from AEDC’s non-compliance with previous guidelines on capping estimated billing, following investigations that revealed customers were overcharged between January and September 2023. As a result, NERC ordered a deduction of N1.69 billion from AEDC’s annual operating expenditure, equivalent to 10% of the overbilled amount.

The commission also directed AEDC to improve service delivery and ensure better compliance with service-based tariffs. AEDC is required to procure 61MW of embedded generation, including at least 30MW from renewable sources, by April 2025 to enhance electricity reliability in its franchise area.

NERC emphasized that customers on Band A feeders must be compensated if the company fails to provide at least 20 hours of average electricity supply daily.

Nigerian Air Force Officer, David Sangokoya, Receives Sword of Honour at UK’s Royal Air Force College

Nigerian Air Force officer, David Sangokoya, has been awarded the prestigious International Sword of Honour for 2023 at the Royal Air Force College Cranwell (RAFCC) in the United Kingdom. This recognition was announced via a statement shared by the Nigerian Air Force on Facebook.

Sangokoya attended the Modularised Initial Officers’ Training (MIOT) Course 22 from March to September 2023 and was named the Best International Cadet. The Sword of Honour, awarded annually to the top international cadet, was presented to him by Prince William, the Prince of Wales, on behalf of King Charles III, during the graduation ceremony on September 12, 2024.

In response, Nigeria’s Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, praised Sangokoya for his dedication and hard work, noting that the achievement highlights the excellence of both the Nigerian Air Force and the nation.