₦785.6 Billion Investment at Risk The Federal Government’s initiative to shift Nigeria’s transportation sector from petrol to gas-powered vehicles is encountering significant obstacles. Stakeholders express concerns over supply shortages and a lack of infrastructure, leading to frustration among users and investors. Despite the availability of petrol nationwide, the scarcity of CNG is causing some users to revert their vehicles back to petrol. In many states, the presence of the CNG scheme is minimal or non-existent, with some areas having the necessary equipment but lacking operational activity. The Presidential CNG Initiative acknowledges these challenges but maintains that the program remains on track, with efforts underway to address the issues. Government Incentives To promote the adoption of CNG, the government has implemented several incentives, such as removing Value Added Tax (VAT) on CNG equipment and infrastructure. In May 2024, President Bola Tinubu directed all federal entities to purchase CNG vehicles. Additionally, the government funded the free conversion of one million commercial vehicles to CNG, aiming to reduce public transportation costs. However, delays in approving licenses for new CNG stations contribute to the scarcity of refill stations, particularly in Abuja and other regions. Some users allege sabotage, suggesting that stakeholders benefiting from petrol imports may be hindering the CNG rollout. A truck driver expressed frustration over the lack of accessible CNG stations, questioning why the government isn’t facilitating the establishment of more stations. Similarly, a taxi operator noted that long queues at gas stations are discouraging many from continuing with CNG, leading them to revert to petrol. In Abuja, a truck driver reported spending an average of six days to refill his CNG-powered truck, highlighting the inadequate number of functional stations. The situation is similar for car owners and taxi operators, who also endure long waits. Regional Situations Abuja/Nasarawa: Along the 38-kilometer Abuja-Keffi Road, there are over 49 petrol stations but only one non-functional CNG station in Ado, Karu Local Government Area. The only operational CNG station in Nasarawa is in Lafia. Motorists express frustration over the lack of conversion centers and refill stations, deterring them from adopting CNG. Lagos: Visits to stations in Ikeja, Mushin, and Apapa revealed that CNG was not being dispensed due to stock shortages. Sources indicate that efforts are being made to address the crisis, though challenges like delays at ports and shipment issues persist. Additionally, government-approved outlets report a lack of equipment for CNG conversions. South East: In Enugu State, the government has procured 50 CNG buses, with plans for an additional 50. However, these buses are currently parked and not in operation. Ebonyi State has purchased some CNG luxury buses but has yet to deploy them. Abia State plans to introduce electric buses instead of CNG, while Anambra State’s Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company has embraced CNG technology, though local adoption remains low. South South: Despite being rich in gas resources, states like Delta, Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, and Cross-Rivers have not seen significant implementation of the CNG initiative. Labor leaders and residents report a lack of CNG buses and infrastructure. In Delta State, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed for a CNG conversion center, but progress has been slow. Akwa-Ibom State launched a CNG initiative but has yet to establish the necessary infrastructure.
A recent windstorm has caused significant destruction in Fika Local Government Area of Yobe State, Nigeria, damaging at least 209 homes, including public buildings. This information was disclosed by Dr. Mohammed Goje, Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Emergency Management Agency (YOSEMA), during a stakeholders’ engagement on the National Disaster Preparedness and Response Campaign organized by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Damaturu. Dr. Goje highlighted that in 2025, a single windstorm event in Fika affected approximately 209 households, encompassing both private residences and public structures. He emphasized that YOSEMA is actively monitoring the situation to determine appropriate support measures for the impacted communities. Data from YOSEMA reveals that in 2024 alone, 28,977 households, totaling 68,954 individuals, were affected by windstorms and flooding across Yobe State. Additionally, 544 individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries due to building collapses caused by floods. The disasters also resulted in 47 fatalities across 601 communities in all 17 local government areas of the state. During the stakeholders’ engagement, NEMA’s Director General, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, represented by the North East Zonal Director, Yakubu Suleiman, underscored the importance of engaging states in the region. This initiative follows the release of the 2025 seasonal climate prediction by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) and the annual flood outlook by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA). The engagement aims to implement proactive measures to mitigate disaster impacts in high-risk communities. The campaign is themed “Strengthening resilience, enhancing preparedness and response: Taking disaster risk management to the grassroots to save lives, restore normalcy, and build communal resilience across Nigeria.” National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned (Matthew 12:37). Not realizing their value and power, many misuse words. They don’t speak correctly. Speaking correctly means speaking in consonance with the Word of God; saying what God has said. Hebrews 13:5-6 says, “…for he hath said…So that we may boldly say….” Words are “things”; they’re living; they’re powerful; they’re creative. Words shape destinies, define realities, and determine outcomes. If you want to understand why your life is the way it is, review your words; listen to yourself. The words you speak determine your health, your appearance, and even your future. Your thoughts and words shape not just your life but even your physical appearance. That’s because words are thoughts clothed in vocabulary, and every person is a reflection of their thoughts. Therefore, if words are an expression of thoughts, then your words reveal your character. No one can live beyond the character of their words; your words define you. Have you seen people who constantly look worried, even when they’re not frowning? Their faces carry the imprint of their thoughts and words. Their health, their emotions, and even their physical features are affected by what they’ve been saying and thinking. That’s because your words are the forces that mould your life. When you speak words of faith, victory, power, success and divine health, your life will align with those words. Proverbs 15:4 says, “A wholesome tongue is a tree of life….” Proverbs 18:21 declares, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” 1 Peter 3:10 takes it to a climax; it says, “For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile.” Speak the right words, for you’re what you say. What you say is what you get (Mark 11:23). Praise God! PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the power of words and the ability to speak and shape my future in line with your perfect will. My words are filled with faith, strength and divine wisdom, bringing health to my body, joy to my spirit and success to my path. I walk in victory always, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYProverbs 18:21 AMPCDeath and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it [for death or life]. James 3:5-6Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! 6 And the tongue [is] a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. Mark 11:23For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanJohn 16:17-33 & 1 Chronicles 7-8 2-Year Bible Reading PlanMark 14:32-42 & Numbers 35 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: Victory is my heritage and my life! I was born to be triumphant always and in every place. Regardless of the challenges that I may face, I will always win. It makes no difference what happens, where I find myself or who’s against me; I am more than a conqueror! I can never be disadvantaged. God has given me everything it takes to live victoriously every day. I know who I am: chosen, royal, and peculiar! I experience the supernatural in my body every day by the power of God’s Spirit. I am in Christ! I reign in righteousness; thus, no weapon formed against me shall prosper. I dwell in the secret place of the Most High God, and I function with the ability of the Spirit always. I’m living in health 24hrs a day, 7 days a week. My body is the temple of the Holy Ghost; therefore, every organ, tissue and cell in my body complies with the Word of God. My body is not sustained by blood, but by the vitalizing power of the Holy Spirit in me. I declare that the Holy Spirit is at work in me. Good health, success, and prosperity are the hallmarks of my daily life. I enjoy life to the full always, to the glory of God the Father. I walk in supernatural strength, supernatural health, supernatural supply, and supernatural abilities every day. I am making progress with giant strides as I fulfill the ministry and destiny that God has for me. I unleash health, prosperity, and victory in my life. I walk in victory and dominion over Satan, as well as the world and its systems. Whatsoever is born of God overcomes the world. I am born of God; therefore, I have overcome the world. It makes no difference the difficulties that may come my way, I am victorious in all things. Christ lives in me! I’m the expression of His reality, His grace, glory, kingdom, power, and personality! I’m the expression of His fullness; He is my completeness. It makes no difference what challenges I face in life; there’s a force – an empowerment – at work in me to blaze through the barriers. Everything and anything I could ever need is inside the greater One that lives in me. Hallelujah! Speak in tongues.
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Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique has expressed his belief that Ousmane Dembélé deserves to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or, following PSG’s emphatic 5–0 win against Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League final on Saturday. Speaking during a post-match interview with TNT Sports, Enrique praised Dembélé’s outstanding contribution despite the winger not registering a goal during the final. The French international’s performance, particularly his defensive efforts, drew high commendation from the manager. “If I could award the Ballon d’Or, it would go to Ousmane Dembélé,” Enrique said. “His defensive work tonight was simply extraordinary — that alone justifies a Ballon d’Or recognition. “This is true leadership. Goals, titles, commitment, pressing — the full package. “He’s my Ballon d’Or without a doubt.” Though Dembélé didn’t find the net in the final match, Enrique emphasized his all-around impact, including his work rate, tactical discipline, and ability to lead from the front. Dembélé is now regarded as one of the frontrunners for the Ballon d’Or, joining the likes of Barcelona stars Lamine Yamal and Raphinha in the conversation for football’s most prestigious individual award. During PSG’s phenomenal season — where they achieved a historic Treble — Dembélé contributed significantly, scoring 33 goals and providing 15 assists across all competitions.
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Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has proclaimed Monday, June 2, 2025, as a public holiday in honor of the 22 athletes from Kano who tragically lost their lives in an accident while returning from Ogun State. The announcement was made during the governor’s pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia for the 2025 Hajj, where he instructed that the day be set aside for mourning, prayers, and solidarity with the bereaved families. A statement released late at night by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, conveyed the governor’s deep sorrow and commitment to supporting the affected families. “It is with a profoundly sorrowful heart that I received the heartbreaking news of this unfortunate tragedy that resulted in the deaths of 22 innocent individuals and caused injuries to several others,” the governor said. “On behalf of the Kano State Government and its people, I extend our sincerest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. We grieve with you and stand with you in this painful time,” he added. The state government further urged Muslim clerics and worshippers, both within and beyond the borders of Kano, to offer prayers for the souls of the deceased athletes and for divine strength to their families during this difficult period.
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Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the former Governor of Kano State and National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of 22 Kano State athletes who tragically lost their lives while returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State. According to official reports, the unfortunate incident occurred when the team’s vehicle plunged off a bridge at Dakatsalle, near Kura Local Government Area in Kano State. In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje described the tragedy as an enormous loss—not just to the victims’ families and Kano State but to the entire Nigerian nation. “This is a deeply sorrowful moment. These young athletes travelled with a spirit of unity and national pride to represent their state. Losing them so suddenly and tragically is a huge blow to the country,” he said. Ganduje praised the athletes for their dedication, describing them as symbols of hope and the bright future of Nigerian sports. He acknowledged their commitment and the honor they brought to Kano State. The former governor extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the Kano State Government, and Nigeria’s sports community. He also offered prayers for the souls of the departed and strength for their grieving loved ones. Furthermore, he urged the relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the root causes of the accident. He also called for the establishment of stricter safety measures to safeguard the welfare of Nigerian athletes during future national events. “May Almighty Allah (SWT) comfort the bereaved families and grant the deceased eternal peace,” Ganduje added.
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The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has expressed deep sorrow following the tragic loss of 22 young athletes from Kano State. These athletes tragically lost their lives in a devastating auto crash while returning from the National Sports Festival held in Abeokuta, Ogun State. In an official statement released through his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje conveyed his heartfelt grief over the incident, calling it a national tragedy that has significantly affected not just the bereaved families and the people of Kano, but the entire country. Ganduje referred to the deceased as highly committed and talented youths who represented the bright future of Nigerian athletics and the pride of Kano State. “This is a deeply painful moment for all of us. These athletes embarked on this journey with courage and determination, embodying the values of unity, patriotism, and sporting excellence. Their sudden and untimely death is a painful blow to our national aspirations,” Ganduje stated. The APC leader extended his deepest condolences to the grieving families, the Government of Kano State, and Nigeria’s sports community as a whole. While praying for the eternal rest of the departed souls, Ganduje also prayed for strength and solace for the families and loved ones left behind in this moment of sorrow. Currently in Saudi Arabia performing Hajj, Ganduje urged concerned authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. He emphasized the need to enforce stricter safety guidelines to ensure the security of Nigerian athletes during official assignments. “May Almighty Allah (SWT) strengthen the affected families to bear this immense tragedy and grant eternal peace to the souls of the deceased,” he concluded.
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Four days after the catastrophic flood that devastated Tiffin Maza and Anguwan Hausawa in Mokwa Local Government Area of Niger State, families continue to search desperately for the bodies of their loved ones to ensure they receive proper burials. Official reports indicate that at least 151 people have died, with over 100 still missing. The flood, triggered by prolonged heavy rainfall and exacerbated by the collapse of a nearby dam, led to the destruction of 50 houses and displaced approximately 3,018 individuals. Many of the displaced are currently taking refuge at Mokwa Central Primary School, which has been converted into a temporary shelter. WikipediaWikipedia The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) reported that the disaster affected 265 houses across three communities, destroyed two roads and two bridges, and injured 11 people. The suddenness and magnitude of the flood caught the community off guard, leading to significant loss of life and property. Eyewitnesses recount harrowing experiences, with some families losing multiple members. Alhaji Belle Ibrahim, a resident who lost his entire family, expressed his anguish, stating that he is still searching for their remains to provide them with proper burials. Others, like Musa Adamu and Hauwa Kudu, continue to comb through debris and floodwaters in hopes of finding missing relatives. The floodwaters, which began rushing in around 6 am on Thursday, quickly overwhelmed Unguwan Hausawa while most residents were still asleep. The disaster also blocked the Tatabu Bridge in the Mokea area, a critical link between the North and South-West, causing significant traffic disruptions. Local authorities, including the leader of the Hausa community, Mal Tanko Bala, report that over 100 bodies have been buried, with more than 100 individuals still unaccounted for. Entire families have been wiped out, and the community is calling on the government for immediate assistance. In response, the Niger State Deputy Governor, Comrade Yakubu Garba, confirmed ongoing search and rescue operations and the provision of relief materials to victims. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is coordinating response efforts, and President Bola Tinubu has directed that all available federal resources be deployed to address the situation. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, conveyed the President’s deep concern over the loss of lives and emphasized the need for public sensitization campaigns to prevent future disasters. The Minister for Humanitarian Affairs, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatdo, pledged to assess the needs of internally displaced persons and provide necessary support. The state government has approved the distribution of 6,000 bags of rice and other essential materials to cushion the effects of the disaster on victims. Efforts are also being intensified to construct stem water drainage systems in Mokwa and Mashegu council areas to mitigate future flooding risks. As the community grapples with the aftermath, many corpses remain trapped under collapsed buildings, and a significant number of almajiri (Quranic school pupils) are still unaccounted for. The government and emergency responders continue to work tirelessly to provide relief and prevent further loss of life.
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In a significant political development, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has presented brand new SUVs to 17 acting local government chairmen who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This gesture comes three months after their transition to the ruling party. The acting chairmen, previously legislative leaders in their respective councils, assumed their roles following the suspension and subsequent impeachment of the elected chairmen and their deputies. The Edo State House of Assembly had suspended all 18 local government chairmen and their deputies on December 17, 2024, citing insubordination and gross misconduct due to their refusal to submit financial records for scrutiny, as detailed in a petition by Governor Okpebholo dated November 16, 2024 . Before the suspension period concluded, the legislative arms of the various councils impeached the chairmen and deputies, appointing the legislative leaders as acting chairmen. These acting chairmen officially joined the APC on March 17, 2025 . Governor Okpebholo stated that the provision of new SUVs is aimed at enhancing effective service delivery at the grassroots level. He remarked: “I want to thank God for making today possible as chairmen now have the privilege to drive brand new vehicles in the state. New things are beginning to happen in Edo State under the watch of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. I know how much you are receiving in the councils, and we will measure your success rate if it is commensurate with what you are receiving. My administration has not interfered with your funds and resources.” Commissioner for Local Government, Community, and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lucky Eseigbe, noted that this is the first time in the state’s history that brand new SUVs have been purchased for local government chairmen. He emphasized that the vehicles are intended to facilitate the chairmen’s responsibilities. Notably, Tom Obaseki, the elected chairman of Oredo Local Government Area, and his deputy were not impeached by the legislative arm. However, the council’s affairs are currently managed by the Head of Local Government Administration, Dr. Igbinigie Osaheni.
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Peter Ameh, National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), has openly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration, asserting that the President has dismantled the nation’s economic foundations within his two-year tenure. In a recent interview on Arise News, Ameh expressed concern over the abrupt removal of fuel subsidies, labeling the decision as insensitive and lacking foresight. He emphasized that such a significant policy shift should have been accompanied by a comprehensive plan to mitigate its impact on the populace. “The removal of the fuel subsidy without a clear policy direction has led to unprecedented hardship,” Ameh stated. He highlighted the surge in fuel prices from N197 to approximately N1,000 per liter, attributing this spike to the government’s hasty actions. Ameh also questioned the ruling party’s awareness of the citizens’ struggles, suggesting that they might be disconnected from the realities on the ground. He pointed out that the liberal economic policies adopted have disproportionately affected the underprivileged, leading to increased transportation costs and inflation. Furthermore, Ameh criticized the administration’s failure to implement its promises, such as cultivating 500,000 hectares of land to boost agriculture. He argued that the lack of a structured approach to policy implementation has exacerbated the nation’s economic woes. In conclusion, Ameh called for a more thoughtful and inclusive approach to governance, urging the administration to consider the plight of ordinary Nigerians in its policy decisions.
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At a public lecture commemorating his 60th birthday in Abuja, former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, openly declared his refusal to support or collaborate with President Bola Tinubu, citing concerns over Tinubu’s capacity to govern Nigeria effectively. Amaechi recounted a conversation with Tinubu in Yola, stating, “I told Tinubu in Yola, I will not support you; I will not work for you. I did not work for him; I did not vote for him. It was the issue of capacity.” He criticized the prevalent practice of voting based on ethnic and religious affiliations, emphasizing that such tendencies have led to the current state of the nation. He remarked, “Some of us who are here are also those who vote on an ethnic or religious basis. Innocent, uneducated people are manipulated to vote based on ethnicity and religion—that’s why we are here.” Highlighting the government’s approach to poverty, Amaechi accused the administration of weaponizing poverty by misappropriating funds meant for essential services. He stated, “They are weaponising poverty by stealing the money they should have used to build hospitals and schools. The benefit of the fuel subsidy removal is in their pockets.” Expressing his disillusionment with the current leadership, Amaechi called for collective action to address the nation’s challenges. He asserted, “For us in opposition, if you want us to remove this man, we can remove this man from power. We want to submit to the opposition if the opposition will take us out of this problem.”
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The Nigerian Navy has intensified its efforts to combat maritime crime by commissioning a new fleet of advanced ships and helicopters. This move, announced by Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, underscores the government’s commitment to securing Nigeria’s maritime domain and promoting economic activities along the nation’s coast. During the induction ceremony in Lagos, Matawalle emphasized that the federal government is serious about enhancing the Navy’s capability to monitor, deter, and respond to threats at sea. He highlighted that the new platforms demonstrate President Bola Tinubu’s determination to protect national interests and boost economic prosperity under the Renewed Hope agenda. The newly commissioned vessels and aircraft are equipped with advanced surveillance technologies and rapid response capabilities. These enhancements will enable the Navy to maintain continuous surveillance over Nigeria’s territorial waters, thereby limiting criminal activities. Notably, the fleet includes long-range helicopters capable of extended surveillance missions, complementing existing platforms for effective monitoring. Matawalle described the fleet renewal and operational capability enhancement as a significant milestone, coinciding with the Nigerian Navy’s 69th anniversary celebrations. He also announced that additional naval platforms from international partners are expected to arrive later this year, further strengthening the Navy’s capacity to patrol offshore waters and safeguard critical national assets. Beyond hardware acquisition, the Ministry of Defence is prioritizing human capital development. Plans are underway to enhance technical training, ensuring personnel can effectively operate and maintain new capabilities. Additionally, efforts are being made to improve morale and welfare activities to keep personnel motivated and mission-ready. In conclusion, Matawalle issued a stern warning to thieves, pirates, and other maritime criminals operating within Nigerian waters, stating that the country’s naval forces are now more capable than ever of enforcing maritime law to protect Nigeria’s economic resources.
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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged Nigerian state governors serving their second term to exercise caution in choosing their successors. While speaking during the inauguration of the first 30 kilometers of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway in the Lekki axis of Lagos, Akpabio warned that selecting a successor based solely on submissive behavior may lead to regret and betrayal in the future. He emphasized that true leadership requires foresight and readiness, not mere flattery or superficial loyalty. Leadership Requires Vision, Not Flattery – Akpabio Akpabio stated that many leaders often misjudge loyalty by giving power to individuals who display exaggerated respect, like kneeling or having their spouses roll on the floor. According to him, such actions do not equate to preparedness for leadership or good governance. “We have a President who possesses both sight and vision. I must advise our second-term governors, especially those under the All Progressives Congress (APC), not to hand over power to someone who is unprepared or uninterested in leadership,” Akpabio said. He continued, “Do not assume that someone who consistently kneels before you, or whose spouse behaves with extreme reverence, deserves to be entrusted with governance. These gestures don’t reflect readiness or capability. Choosing successors based on such shallow reasons is often the root of betrayal.” Akpabio reiterated that proper governance and sustained development stem from electing capable, visionary leaders—not those chosen out of blind loyalty or personal favoritism. Akpabio Commends Progressive Leadership Commending the APC leadership, Akpabio noted that Nigeria’s progress is driven by a visionary President who exemplifies leadership with purpose. He advised governors to emulate this example by endorsing individuals with strategic focus and competence. According to him, “The progressive governors are performing well because they are guided by a leader who not only sees the present but also envisions the future.” Key Attendees at the Event The commissioning event was attended by notable dignitaries, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister of Works David Umahi, and several second-term governors such as Governor Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Governor Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos).
