The Federal Government of Nigeria has extended heartfelt accolades to the Super Falcons following their exceptional performance in the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), describing the team’s triumph as a historic milestone that has permanently engraved Nigeria’s name in golden letters on the African football map. In a formal declaration issued by Mohammed Idris, the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, the government praised the unwavering determination and discipline exhibited by the national senior women’s football team, stating that the Falcons have once again made the nation proud on the global stage. The Super Falcons returned to Nigeria on Monday, just 48 hours after they delivered an unforgettable comeback by overturning a 2-0 deficit to defeat host country Morocco 3-2 in a dramatic final match that sealed their status as continental champions. “We heartily welcome our courageous Super Falcons back from Rabat, Morocco, where they emerged victorious as the champions of the 2024 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations,” the Minister’s statement read. Mohammed Idris noted that this monumental victory goes far beyond the boundaries of sports, symbolizing the enduring resilience, excellence, and unbreakable spirit of Nigerians, which the Super Falcons have consistently showcased. “Through their exceptional skills, world-class performance, unity, and unyielding discipline, these national heroines have written Nigeria’s name in gold on the continental landscape,” the statement emphasized. On behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the entire federal leadership, the Minister conveyed deep appreciation to the entire squad — including the players, coaching staff, and technical team — for their bravery, selflessness, and dedication. “You have reignited hope, inspired a new generation, and proven once again the transformative power of sports as a force for national unity and motivation,” Idris said. The statement also reassured Nigerians of the Tinubu administration’s unwavering dedication to investing in sports infrastructure, athlete development, and empowerment. The government affirmed that efforts will be intensified to provide adequate support and resources for Nigerian athletes to reach their full potential. As the triumphant Super Falcons landed in Abuja this afternoon, citizens were encouraged to line the streets and join the celebratory motorcade, which moved from the Abuja City Gate through Eagle Square to the Presidential Villa, where the champions were officially received by top government officials. “The Super Falcons have raised Nigeria’s flag high and filled the hearts of millions with pride. Welcome home, champions of Africa!”
Jason Jae has been officially crowned the inaugural Head of House (HOH) in Big Brother Naija Season 10, following an electrifying three-stage contest called the Sense of Peace challenge. The event took place shortly after the conclusion of the second launch show on July 27, 2025. In a display of impressive skill and mental focus, Jason Jae triumphed in the highly competitive HOH challenge, securing his place in the show’s history as the first to hold the coveted position this season. The Sense of Peace challenge unfolded in three distinct phases, each crafted to evaluate the 29 housemates on the basis of speed, physical strength, and mental resilience. The opening phase featured a Block Stacking Challenge, where contestants were required to replicate a pattern using wooden blocks. Only eight housemates progressed beyond this round, including Jason Jae, Thelma Lawson, Bright Morgan, Victory, Tracy, Joanna, Sultana, and Gigi. Moving on to the second phase — the Goldbar Collection round — housemates competed in pairs to gather gold bars under pressure. Ultimately, Jason Jae, Joanna, Bright Morgan, and Sultana emerged as the winners, advancing to the final round. In the last and most mentally demanding segment, titled the Treasure Challenge Box, the remaining contestants were tasked with unlocking a treasure box using a specific key. Jason Jae prevailed once again, outperforming the rest to earn the Head of House title. Securing this title gives Jason Jae a significant tactical edge in the ongoing game. He wasted no time in exercising his power, selecting Doris to enjoy the exclusive HOH lounge privileges alongside him. While the complete benefits and strategic influence tied to the HOH position in this season are still under wraps, fans and fellow housemates are already watching closely to see how Jason leverages this early advantage in the game.
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Afrobeats sensation Ayra Starr was overjoyed to perform live at Coldplay’s iconic ‘Music of the Spheres’ tour stop at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida, on Sunday night, an event that turned even more unforgettable with global football legend Lionel Messi and his wife Antonela Roccuzzo in attendance. The acclaimed British band, Coldplay, delighted fans by bringing out the Nigerian music star Ayra Starr as a special guest performer halfway through their sold-out show. The presence of Inter Miami’s star forward Lionel Messi and his wife Antonela electrified the stadium, drawing thunderous applause and ecstatic cheers from the crowd as their faces appeared on the big screen during the show. Ayra Starr, whose music career continues to rise on the global stage, performed her collaborative single with Coldplay titled “Good Feelings” alongside their charismatic frontman, Chris Martin. She also captivated the audience with a powerful live rendition of her latest track “Hot Body”, a new release that is quickly gaining traction in both Nigerian and international music circles. The performance was a major career milestone for the Nigerian artist, and she couldn’t hide her excitement. Taking to social media shortly after the show, Ayra Starr shared her joy and disbelief over the surreal moment of performing live while Lionel Messi watched from the audience. In her words: “I just performed Hot Body on stage with Coldplay!! And Messi was in the audience.” This thrilling event marks another major achievement for Ayra Starr, solidifying her status as one of Nigeria’s fast-rising Afrobeats artists making waves on the global music scene.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church (1 Corinthians 14:4). Praying in the Spirit is a powerful spiritual exercise that produces remarkable results within you. One of the things God designed to keep you healthy, sound, and strong is prayer, especially praying in the Spirit. When you speak in tongues, you edify yourself; it’s like charging a battery. Your spirit is charged, energized and strengthened, enabling you to truly serve God. The Apostle Paul revealed something profound in Romans 1:9, saying, “For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son….” This means we serve God with our spirits. Therefore, for your spirit to function effectively, it must be charged, strengthened and continually refreshed. Praying in tongues achieves this. The human spirit can be weak or strong. To strengthen your spirit, you must spend time praying in the Holy Ghost. As you do, your spirit is built up and fortified: “But you, beloved, build yourselves up [founded] on your most holy faith [make progress, rise like an edifice higher and higher], praying in the Holy Spirit” (Jude 1:20 AMPC). God has His role, but you also have yours. The Holy Spirit is your Helper; He doesn’t do the work for you but works through you. Paul, in Ephesians 3:14-16 tells us, “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man.” The term “strengthened with might” refers to being infused with miracle-working ability by the Holy Spirit in your inner man. Paul understood this truth deeply, which is why he made a remarkable statement in 1 Corinthians 14:18, “I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all.” The Corinthian church was known for their enthusiasm for speaking in tongues, yet Paul stated that he spoke in tongues more than all of them. Paul’s consistency in praying in tongues was key to his continuous progress, victories and extraordinary accomplishments. It wasn’t something he did occasionally; it was a lifestyle. If you desire consistent growth, success, and advancement, then praying in the Spirit must be something you do consistently. It’ll help you make consistent progress as you experience continuous increase in grace and victory after victory. Hallelujah! PRAYERDear Father, I thank you for the blessing of praying in the Spirit through which I build up and strengthen my spirit to serve you effectively. Even now, my spirit is attuned to your guidance and direction, and I walk in perpetual victory, progress and ever-increasing grace, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYEphesians 3:14-16 AMPCFor this reason [seeing the greatness of this plan by which you are built together in Christ], I bow my knees before the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 For Whom every family in heaven and on earth is named [that Father from Whom all fatherhood takes its title and derives its name]. 16 May He grant you out of the rich treasury of His glory to be strengthened and reinforced with mighty power in the inner man by the [Holy] Spirit [Himself indwelling your innermost being and personality]. Ephesians 6:18 NIV[18] And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 1 Corinthians 14:4 AMPCHe who speaks in a [strange] tongue edifies and improves himself, but he who prophesies [interpreting the divine will and purpose and teaching with inspiration] edifies and improves the church and promotes growth [in Christian wisdom, piety, holiness, and happiness]. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanRomans 3:1-31 & Psalms 42-44 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 11:37-44 & Judges 2-3 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I use my mouth to create the glorious future I want to see. Even now, I release words of prosperity, strength, grace, victories and promotions about my family, job, business, academics, and health. I live in the reality of my heritage in Christ. I walk in God’s strength and glory, strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. I prevail over circumstances today, ruling and reigning by the power of the Holy Ghost. I function today and always with the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of God. I increase more and more in knowledge and in sound judgment, able to discern and function at all times in the centre of God’s will. My whole being is full of light, and I am making progress by the Word, and heaping up success upon success. I’m ever conscious and yielded to the ministry of the Holy Spirit in my personal life. There’s no disadvantage for me. I’m full of joy and I’m full of love and I walk in righteousness and in prosperity; goodness and mercy follow me every day of my life. I am vibrant and exuberant with praise at all times; I am more effective in my Christian walk, and circumstances are under my feet. The eyes of my understanding are enlightened to know God’s purpose and His destiny for my life. I am on a mission, I am running swiftly to win the prize of the high calling of God in my life. I am energized for victory and positioned for the transcendent life by the Spirit of God who lives in me! By Him I labour, striving according to the working of His power that works within me mightily. The Spirit of God has made me more than a man and my life is truly supernatural. I can do all things through Christ who enables me to live victoriously every day. I excel in every area of my life because the competence and excellence by which I function are by
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Big Brother Naija Season 10 continued its electrifying momentum with the second phase premiere on July 27, 2025, unveiling 14 vibrant male contestants who are poised to dominate the entertainment space in the BBNaija house. This latest addition to the house introduces a thrilling mix of personalities, drama-ready characters, and bold fashion styles, promising non-stop content for fans and followers across the country. Full List of Big Brother Naija Season 10 Male Housemates: Koyin At 21, this charismatic Ogun State native calls himself a “baby boy” and a “street boy.” His goal is to stir drama while exuding calmness and flair. Expect youthful mischief mixed with confident energy. Danboskid A 25-year-old from Ekiti State, he takes pride in his approach to relationships. Instead of chasing women, he claims they naturally gravitate toward him. Smooth and self-assured, Danboskid may bring subtle chaos to the house. Bright Morgan A 28-year-old Imo-born actor with a love for mirrors—literally. Bright Morgan believes his reflection is his companion and says he has no intention of falling in love within the house. He brings theatrics and vanity in equal measure. Rooboy At 29, this hype man from Ogun State is all about high energy. With charisma and a booming presence, Rooboy is ready to ignite the house with pure vibes. Faith This 25-year-old medical doctor from Osun State says he’s deeply passionate about love and is entering the house to deliver pure energy and romantic drama. His intellectual background may contrast with emotional vulnerability. Kaybobo Claiming to outshine chef Hilda Baci, this 26-year-old Ekiti native says he is not just a cook, but also a deliverer of drama and destruction. Bold and unapologetic, Kaybobo is ready to stir pots literally and figuratively. Denari From Anambra, 27-year-old Denari works alongside his father as a salesman. He plans to infuse the house with innovative entertainment ideas and creativity. Kayikunmi A 25-year-old banker from Ekiti State and a royal twin, Kayikunmi is expected to bring class, elegance, and calculated strategy to his gameplay. Victory This 28-year-old psychologist hailing from Akwa Ibom is argumentative by nature and promises to stay sharp throughout the show. Victory is ready to challenge thoughts, emotions, and fellow housemates. Jason Jae A 29-year-old creative artist from Ondo State, Jason is both a dancer and a musician. With his artistic flair, he aims to shine and stand out uniquely among the crowd. Kola This 28-year-old content creator from Ekiti State is promising fresh, relatable narratives and disruptive ideas to spice up conversations and dynamics in the house. Otega A 32-year-old tech expert from Delta State, Otega describes himself as “lowkey dramatic” but fully prepared to shake things up with intelligent play and subtle chaos. Kuture Hailing from Kogi State, 27-year-old Kuture is a music and fashion enthusiast. Single and ambitious, he proclaims he’ll only consider love after reaching success. Watch out for his stylish presence. Mensan From Rivers State, 29-year-old Mensan enters the house with swag, “ginger,” and intent to leave a lasting impact. He’s lively, confident, and undoubtedly a wild card. Competition Heats Up These 14 male contestants will be going head-to-head with the already revealed female housemates for a jaw-dropping ₦150 million grand prize—the biggest in BBNaija history.
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Portuguese attacking midfielder João Félix has reportedly sealed a two-year agreement to depart Chelsea Football Club and join forces with Cristiano Ronaldo at Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr. As disclosed by renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano, Félix has signed a deal that will run until June 2027, marking a new chapter in his career within the Middle East football scene. The former Atletico Madrid star spent the last season on loan at AC Milan, one of the top Serie A clubs, but has now opted for a fresh move away from Europe. The Portugal international is preparing to exit Chelsea’s West London squad this summer, having not been able to cement a consistent starting role since his arrival from La Liga. João Félix and Cristiano Ronaldo, both representing Portugal’s national team, are set to link up once again—this time at the Riyadh-based club Al-Nassr, where Ronaldo currently plays as the marquee striker. The 25-year-old initially joined Chelsea on a temporary basis from Atlético Madrid, hoping to revive his form and secure a permanent role, but has not lived up to expectations with the Blues. With this transfer, Félix will look to rediscover his top form alongside Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia, as the region continues to attract elite European talents.
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Manchester United head coach, Rúben Amorim, has highlighted a key concern regarding Bruno Fernandes’ on-field mentality, pointing out a recurring issue that affects his performance. According to Amorim, the Portuguese playmaker, despite his exceptional skillset, tends to become easily frustrated during matches, which often leads to a loss of focus. This behavioral trait, he noted, has occasionally disrupted his effectiveness on the pitch. A Season to Forget for Manchester United The 2024/2025 Premier League season will go down as one of the most underwhelming campaigns in recent Manchester United history. The Red Devils ended the season just above the relegation zone, finishing with only 42 points, derived from 11 victories, 9 draws, and 18 losses. Such a performance has left fans and analysts questioning the club’s direction and leadership. Hopes for redemption through European success also crumbled, as Manchester United’s journey in the UEFA Europa League ended in heartbreak. The club narrowly lost the final 0-1 to Tottenham Hotspur, missing out on UEFA Champions League qualification. Bruno Fernandes: Individual Brilliance, Collective Criticism While the club stumbled as a unit, Bruno Fernandes had a personally strong season, recording 19 goals and 19 assists in 57 appearances across all competitions. Statistically, this made him one of the team’s top contributors. However, the Portugal international was frequently criticized by fans and football pundits alike. Many believe that Fernandes’ tendency to shoulder all responsibilities often disrupted team flow. His habit of attempting to do everything on the field, although well-intentioned, raised questions about discipline and tactical adherence. Amorim Offers Constructive Criticism In a recent preseason friendly against West Ham, Fernandes netted both goals in Manchester United’s 2-1 win. After the match, Amorim shared his candid thoughts in an interview with MUTV, acknowledging the midfielder’s passion but also cautioning against certain habits. “Sometimes, the issue is that he becomes frustrated and loses focus on his specific role,” Amorim stated, according to a quote published by the Independent. “He tries so hard to assist his teammates that it ends up being counterproductive. Everyone must fulfill their role, and for Bruno, it often means waiting for the right moment rather than forcing situations,” he added. What’s Next for Bruno Fernandes and United? With the new season ahead, Amorim’s remarks serve as a clear signal that discipline, role clarity, and emotional composure will be central themes in reshaping the team’s mentality. For Fernandes, embracing these insights could be the key to elevating his influence even further—not just through statistics, but through leadership and cohesion.
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Newcastle United’s star striker, Alexander Isak, is reportedly on the verge of a surprising transfer to Liverpool Football Club following the finalized departure of Luis Diaz. As per renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Reds are ready to make a significant financial move to secure the Swedish forward, now that the transfer of Diaz to Bayern Munich is complete. The Colombian winger has reached a full agreement with the Bundesliga giants, officially ending his tenure at Anfield and preparing for a fresh start at the Allianz Arena. Meanwhile, Isak appears enthusiastic about the switch, as sources close to the player reveal that his sole desire is to join Liverpool, the current Premier League champions. Despite strong speculation surrounding a lucrative offer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, rumored to be worth an eye-watering £600,000 weekly wage, Isak has reportedly declined talks with any Middle Eastern club. The proposed deal was tax-free, making it one of the most attractive financial packages of the summer. At present, the next step lies with Newcastle United, who must decide whether to entertain Liverpool’s growing interest. The Merseyside club is believed to be preparing a record-breaking bid for the 25-year-old attacker, underscoring their intent to replace Diaz with a high-caliber forward. Should Newcastle approve negotiations, Isak’s move could become one of the headline deals of the summer transfer window, with implications for both domestic and European football.
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Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to apply the ‘Nigeria First’ initiative to the refined fuel sector, a suggestion that met immediate opposition from oil marketers and industry professionals on Sunday. While speaking at the Global Commodity Insights Conference on West African Refined Fuel Markets in Abuja, Dangote argued for a complete ban on the importation of refined petroleum products—including petrol and diesel—claiming that the ongoing influx of imported fuels is sabotaging local refineries and discouraging investment in Nigeria’s oil refining capacity. The Nigeria First policy, implemented in May 2024, restricts all government bodies from importing services or products that are already produced domestically. The directive requires justification and approval from the Bureau of Public Procurement before any foreign procurement can be considered. Referencing this regulation, Dangote maintained that the same protection should extend to local oil refiners, including his $20 billion Dangote Refinery, to limit the inflow of cheaper, often inferior, imported fuels. He further accused fuel importers of flooding Nigeria with substandard, toxic petroleum products, many of which are outlawed in Europe, giving them an unethical advantage and compromising public safety and fuel quality. “To make matters worse,” Dangote remarked, “we are now facing an increased volume of cheap, often harmful petroleum products, many of which are blended to unsafe levels that wouldn’t pass approval in Europe or North America.” Dangote also revealed that some imported fuels—particularly from Russia—are sold at subsidized rates. This undercuts local prices and pressures domestic producers into unsustainable pricing. “With Russian fuel price caps in place, discounted products from or made with Russian crude are now being dumped in African markets, undermining our local refining operations that pay full price for crude oil. This has caused pricing instability across Africa,” he stated. He noted that Nigeria is now selling fuel at about 60 cents per litre, lower than even Saudi Arabia, despite producing and refining oil locally—an indication of the damage caused by rampant dumping. To protect local investments and refine the market structure, Dangote called on African governments to adopt protective economic measures like those used in Canada, the United States, and the European Union to prevent unfair foreign competition. He dismissed accusations that his suggestion was an attempt to monopolize the sector, pointing instead to a lack of domestic commitment by wealthy Nigerians who, according to him, invest abroad but criticize local investors. “Too many Nigerians with the financial means choose to sit on the sidelines and invest their wealth overseas, while we put everything on the line to build at home,” Dangote said. He also emphasized that his refinery has the capacity to meet Nigeria’s fuel demands. Backing this claim, he disclosed that Nigeria has already become a net exporter of refined petroleum products, having shipped out approximately 1.35 billion litres of petrol within a 50-day period. “Before coming up here, I checked with my team—we’ve exported around 1 million tonnes of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) between June and July 2025, which is about 1.35 billion litres,” he stated. Oil Marketers Reject Dangote’s Proposal Despite Dangote’s assertions, key stakeholders in the downstream oil sector strongly opposed the proposed import ban. Speaking to The Punch on Sunday, Chinedu Ukadike, National Publicity Secretary of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), stated that independent marketers would reject any move to outlaw fuel importation. “We, the independent marketers, disagree with that idea. If the government enforces such a ban, it would stoke inflation and create a monopoly since only one refinery currently functions nationwide,” Ukadike warned. He added that Nigeria should maintain both importation and local production options to preserve market balance and consumer affordability. Ukadike also pushed back on Dangote’s argument that importation undermines local businesses. “It’s not true. Importation will enhance local capacity, not destroy it. It challenges refineries to improve. We don’t agree with Dangote’s position.” In the same vein, Billy Gillis-Harry, National President of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), rejected the call for an import ban, warning against giving any single company a dominant hold over the oil sector. He acknowledged that while banning some foreign goods makes sense, fuel should not be part of that list, especially in a country that depends on diverse energy sources. “We operate a free market economy. No single company should monopolize an entire industry,” Gillis-Harry emphasized. He added: “Importation is not what’s harming the economy. In fact, it stabilizes petroleum supply chains. While products that we can produce locally—like garri, toothpicks, or cassava—should be banned, refined petroleum products should remain open to importation. It ensures supply diversity and energy security.”
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…Disputes Intensify on Tariff Subsidy and Regulation Autonomy The recent shift by several Nigerian state governments to assert authority over electricity market regulation in line with the amended Electricity Act 2024 has escalated tensions across the nation’s power industry, Business Hallmark has learned. The Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission (EERC), along with other state-based regulatory bodies, has begun setting independent electricity tariffs within their territories. This move has ignited fierce resistance from stakeholders in the power sector who are unhappy with the abrupt departure from the existing national pricing order. State regulators insist they are legally empowered by the new Electricity Act to manage electricity supply, pricing, and distribution locally. However, operators, supported by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), argue that these state-level actions overstep their bounds and contradict national policies. Industry experts warn that unless this dispute is swiftly resolved, it could derail federal efforts to reform Nigeria’s long-struggling electricity sector. Electricity Act 2024: Empowering States or Worsening Chaos? President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in February 2024, signed into law the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill 2024, which fundamentally restructured the Nigerian power system by granting states the authority to manage electricity generation, transmission, and distribution within their boundaries. Following its passage through the House of Representatives in July 2023 and the Senate in November 2023, the law came into force in mid-2024, allowing NERC to license state commissions. As of now, states like Enugu, Ondo, Ekiti, Imo, Oyo, Edo, Kogi, Lagos, Ogun, Niger, and Plateau have successfully secured regulatory rights to oversee electricity affairs within their borders, while others are still in the process of meeting NERC’s conditions. Enugu Sets a Precedent with New Electricity Tariff Emboldened by its regulatory mandate, Enugu State on July 19, 2025, through its Electricity Regulatory Commission, issued a new pricing order to MainPower Electricity Distribution Limited—successor to the former Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC). Tariff Order No. EERC/2025/003 mandates MainPower to reduce the electricity tariff for Band A consumers from N209 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) to N160/kWh, effective from August 1. The EERC defended its action, citing compliance with the Enugu State Electricity Law of 2023, which grants it the power to oversee energy distribution and pricing in the state. Subsidies and the New Tariff Model According to EERC Chairman Engr. Chijioke Okonkwo, the revised tariffs reflect the federal government’s ongoing electricity generation subsidies. He explained that the commission, using the 2024 Tariff Methodology Regulations and a tailored Distribution Tariff Model, derived an average cost of N94/kWh. This lower rate was possible due to an N45 federal subsidy out of an actual production cost of N112 for Enugu State. He noted, “We calculated a cost-reflective tariff based on the assumption that the federal government will continue subsidizing power generation.” FOCPEN Throws Its Support Behind EERC The move by Enugu State has drawn backing from other states. The Forum of Commissioners of Power and Energy in Nigeria (FOCPEN) expressed solidarity with EERC’s decision. FOCPEN leaders, Prince Eka Williams of Cross River and Omale Omale of Benue, stated that Enugu’s move aligns fully with the 1999 Constitution, the Electricity Act 2023, and relevant state laws. They emphasized that state regulators have the legal backing to determine fair electricity tariffs that balance consumer protection with investor interests. They also clarified that the tariff review process was rigorous, involving a detailed assessment of MainPower’s capital and operational expenditures as well as their regulatory asset base and customer classifications. Anticipation Among Consumers Spurs Confusion Across Nigeria, consumers are reacting to the anticipated drop in electricity prices. Many with prepaid meters are limiting their purchases, hoping to benefit from lower tariffs in August, while those on estimated billing are refusing to settle their current bills. One such consumer, Rafiu Adepoju, a cobbler in Agege, Lagos, shared, “I only bought N5,000 electricity this week. I heard the price is going down soon.” Despite being reminded that the new tariffs apply solely to Enugu, Rafiu insisted that Ikeja Electric would follow suit based on a yet-unconfirmed memo from the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission (LERC). Business Hallmark investigations revealed that these claims were not substantiated. National Electricity Stakeholders Push Back Major operators and regulators have rejected the idea of each state setting its own pricing, warning that it could severely destabilize the electricity market. The Association of Nigerian Electricity Distributors (ANED) said that Enugu’s independent action has led to increased pressure on other distribution companies to cut their prices as well. ANED’s CEO, Sunday Oduntan, explained that many customers across Nigeria are threatening to stop paying bills, expecting similar tariff reductions. Oduntan criticized the EERC for issuing the order without consulting with NERC or the wider industry. He warned that such disjointed policies could reduce payment remittances to the national grid and affect power generation companies (GenCos) and other stakeholders. Power Generators Reject EERC Tariff Model Echoing ANED’s stance, the Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC), led by Joy Ogaji, denounced the tariff cut, stating that it’s based on flawed financial projections. Ogaji cautioned that if states continue to follow EERC’s lead, it could threaten national energy sustainability. She questioned whether Enugu expects the federal government to continue subsidizing its electricity or if it plans to independently manage accumulated sector debts and liabilities. NERC Warns States to Respect Wholesale Cost Realities NERC has issued a strong warning, stressing that states do not have the legal mandate to regulate power stations operating under federal licenses or interfere with national grid dynamics. The commission insisted that any deviation from wholesale pricing structures must be matched with adequate subsidies from the state to avoid destabilizing the electricity market. NERC cited Order No. EERC/2025/003 and criticized the reduction of Band A customer tariffs to N160.4/kWh, highlighting a risky assumption that N66.85/kWh of the cost will be subsidized. Citing Section 34(1) of the Electricity Act, NERC reminded stakeholders of their statutory obligation to promote a stable and viable electricity market, urging sub-national regulators not to make unilateral decisions that jeopardize market stability. Energy Experts Call for
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Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed from Abuja on Sunday, en route to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to officially represent Nigeria at the second edition of the United Nations Food Systems Summit (UNFSS). The summit is scheduled to hold from July 27 to 29, and is expected to convene world leaders to evaluate ongoing progress since the maiden event held in 2021. This high-level global summit will serve as a platform for countries to intensify efforts and coordinate initiatives aimed at building resilient, inclusive, and sustainable food systems that benefit all nations. Leaders will focus on accelerating reforms and sharing strategic models for food security in alignment with global sustainability goals. A statement issued on Sunday by Stanley Nkwocha, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), confirmed Vice President Shettima’s participation. According to the statement, he is set to feature in multiple strategic events, most notably a dialogue session centered on transforming the global coffee value chain. Additionally, Shettima will attend ministerial-level roundtable discussions that will address critical themes such as: Beyond formal sessions, the summit will also include side events such as field excursions, networking engagements, and interactive knowledge-sharing forums, designed to promote collaboration among stakeholders. Nkwocha emphasized that Nigeria’s goals for attending the summit are three-pronged: The United Nations is organizing the event in collaboration with the governments of Ethiopia and Italy, alongside a coalition of development partners under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework. Vice President Shettima is expected to return to Nigeria upon conclusion of his official engagements in Addis Ababa.
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In a renewed effort to address rising security concerns, the Bauchi State Government has revealed plans to construct a state-of-the-art Divisional Police Station in Duguri, the hometown of Governor Bala Mohammed. This initiative is aimed at strengthening the overall internal security framework within the state. The announcement was made over the weekend during a groundbreaking ceremony for the new police facility in Duguri. Speaking on behalf of the governor at the event, Deputy Governor Mohammed Auwal Jatau emphasized the critical importance of security collaboration between the government and law enforcement agencies. Alongside the new development in Duguri, the government also disclosed plans to carry out extensive renovations at the Futuk Divisional Police Headquarters, while simultaneously upgrading the operational base in Mansur. These improvements are part of a broader mission to enhance the reach and responsiveness of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) across the state. Deputy Governor Jatau reiterated that partnerships with security agencies, particularly the Police, are essential in driving sustainable progress and safeguarding the lives and properties of citizens. He extended gratitude to the Bauchi State Police Command, led by Commissioner Aliyu Sani-Omolori, for its unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions to public safety. Governor Bala Mohammed, through his deputy, reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to bolstering law enforcement by investing in modern security infrastructure and operational tools. He noted that these efforts reflect a deliberate strategic move by the Bauchi administration to ensure that police personnel are fully prepared to meet evolving security threats across various communities. Speaking at the event, Police Commissioner Aliyu Sani-Omolori lauded Governor Bala Mohammed for his continued support of the Nigeria Police. He described the Duguri project and accompanying renovations as significant milestones in boosting the Police Force’s operational efficiency. The commissioner stressed that the modern facility will enhance the Police’s capacity to react swiftly to incidents, ensure officer safety, and ultimately increase public confidence in the Force. According to Sani-Omolori, such infrastructural upgrades are critical in equipping officers with the necessary tools to effectively perform their constitutional duty of protecting lives and property, especially amid the increasing security challenges facing Nigeria today.
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The current Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has publicly confirmed that the Commission is actively investigating 18 sitting governors across various states of Nigeria for financial-related misconduct. However, he emphasized a significant legal limitation: while investigations are ongoing, no legal prosecution can take place until the respective governors vacate their offices. Olukoyede stated, “We don’t wait until governors finish their term before commencing investigations. As of now, we are conducting thorough probes on 18 sitting governors. Once their immunity expires, we will move forward accordingly.” This was disclosed during a recent public engagement program, seemingly serving both as a notice and deterrent. Although the EFCC is empowered to investigate and prevent financial crimes, critics argue that merely investigating without immediate accountability is ineffective. This is often compared to locking the stable after the horse has already escaped. The inability to prosecute while a governor remains in power complicates anti-corruption efforts, especially when dealing with Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs). For this reason, there are growing calls for a constitutional review of the immunity clause shielding public officials. Back in 2007, during the tenure of the EFCC’s pioneering chairman, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, similar revelations were made. He had completed probes into several governors and awaited the end of their tenures to commence prosecution. Sadly, nearly two decades later, a majority of those cases have yet to reach any conclusive judgments. Ribadu’s reports included allegations such as money laundering, manipulation of local government allocations, and inflation of contract values. In some cases, the wives of governors were allegedly involved in laundering illicit funds. For example, a governor from the South-East region reportedly used family members—his wife, daughter, mother, and brother—to misappropriate N35 billion, which was allegedly used to establish a private airline, a pharmaceutical company, and a media house. In another shocking case, a different governor, along with four aides, was arraigned on a 16-count charge of misappropriating N60.85 billion in public funds. Some governors worked hand-in-hand with local government officials to siphon off state funds. In oil-rich South-South states, EFCC reports indicate that 13% derivation funds meant for development were funneled into foreign accounts. From the North-West, another governor allegedly diverted a N1 billion loan intended for developmental projects. The EFCC’s journey has been described as a “mirage”—the more you examine, the less tangible the results become. Public confidence in the agency has waned over time, with many Nigerians disillusioned by drawn-out court cases, ambiguous plea bargains, and inconclusive investigations. A few notable convictions stand out: Joshua Dariye and Jolly Nyame were sentenced but later received presidential pardons from Muhammadu Buhari. Former Delta State governor, James Ibori, was jailed in the UK for corruption, while Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, former governor of Bayelsa State, was also convicted. Alamieyeseigha was found with $1.5 million hidden in his London apartment and $2.7 million in a foreign bank account. These few high-profile convictions were mostly achieved with international cooperation. Following the exit of President Olusegun Obasanjo, whose administration took an aggressive stance on anti-corruption, many pending corruption cases lost momentum. Ribadu, once the poster face of the EFCC, also fled the country under political pressure. Obasanjo had shown firm political will. In 1999, after his electoral victory, Dr. Peter Eigen of Transparency International described Obasanjo as “a principled anti-corruption crusader” and called on the international community to support Nigeria’s reforms. Obasanjo had previously lamented that young Nigerians now idolized corrupt leaders, warning that unchecked corruption could destroy the nation’s future. Obasanjo’s policies led to the formation of the EFCC, with Ribadu playing a crucial role. Despite holding the relatively junior rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police, Ribadu managed to prosecute high-profile figures like former Inspector-General of Police, Tafa Balogun, who was convicted for mishandling N5.7 billion. Ribadu famously claimed that he feared no man, only God. Between 2007 and 2015, the anti-corruption campaign lost vigor. Under Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, governance was hampered by health issues, while Goodluck Jonathan’s administration displayed little resolve to combat corruption. Funds designated for military operations in the North-East were reportedly diverted for political campaigns. Deziani Alison-Madueke, the former Minister of Petroleum, allegedly enjoyed unchecked access to public resources during this period. Jonathan’s lax anti-corruption posture gave opposition parties material to campaign with. The prevailing rhetoric was, “If Nigeria doesn’t kill corruption, corruption will kill Nigeria.” Despite actions against figures like National Security Adviser Sambo Dasuki, the Buhari administration’s anti-corruption efforts became selective. Several politicians evaded EFCC investigations by switching allegiance from the PDP to Buhari’s APC. Those who supported APC campaigns enjoyed political cover. This pattern persisted throughout Buhari’s presidency. Notably, APC’s former National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, once infamously declared that defectors would have their “sins forgiven”—a statement he later attempted to deny, despite widespread public memory. Senate President Godswill Akpabio is a prominent example. Before joining APC, he was investigated by the EFCC for allegedly embezzling N108.1 billion while serving as Akwa Ibom governor. Later, as Niger Delta Affairs Minister, allegations of over N86 billion in contract fraud surfaced during his oversight of the NDDC. A National Assembly inquiry into N40 billion worth of questionable expenses followed. When invited by the EFCC in 2023, Akpabio claimed to be too ill to attend—diagnosed with pneumonia and cardiac arrhythmia. That was the end of the matter. Given this backdrop, one can sympathize with the current EFCC leadership. While the intention to investigate 18 sitting governors appears noble, past experiences offer little hope for meaningful outcomes. The issue is not necessarily EFCC’s commitment but the broader political environment, which often undermines justice. The case of Yahaya Bello, former Kogi governor, further illustrates the challenges. Rather than face corruption charges, he evaded law enforcement for months, eventually reappearing under convenient conditions. Authorities took no visible punitive action. Among the 18 current governors under EFCC probe, those outside the ruling APC may interpret the situation as an invitation to switch parties. PDP governors with 2027 ambitions are watching carefully. Only those who govern transparently and avoid corrupt practices
