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Kogi, News, Politics

Dino Melaye Resigns from PDP, Cites Party’s Inability to Rescue Nigeria

Former Kogi West Senator, Dino Melaye, has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing the party’s failure to provide a viable alternative for national recovery. Melaye announced his resignation in a letter dated July 30, addressed to the PDP Chairman of Ward 1 in Aiyetoro Gbede, Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State. “This decision has become imperative due to the lack of potency and capacity by the party to deliver the Nigerian people from the prevailing political cankerworms that have eaten deeply into the fabric of our dear nation,” the former lawmaker wrote. Read Also: Why They Are Afraid of Dr. Ganduje A known ally of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Melaye is now a key member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which has emerged as a new rallying platform for opposition figures. His departure follows that of several other PDP stalwarts, including former Senate President David Mark, Atiku Abubakar, and Dele Momodu, amid growing momentum for the opposition coalition. David Mark currently serves as the interim national chairman of the ADC. He has warned members against disloyalty, emphasizing that the coalition will not tolerate anti-party activities. Melaye’s exit adds to the shifting political landscape ahead of future elections, as parties realign and opposition blocs seek greater cohesion.

National, News

Tinubu Extends Customs CG Bashir Adeniyi’s Tenure by One Year

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a one-year extension for the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, whose tenure was initially set to expire on August 31, 2025. The announcement was made on Thursday in a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. Read Also: Tinubu Appoints Olumode Adeyemi as New Fire Service Boss According to the statement, the extension is aimed at allowing Adeniyi to consolidate ongoing reforms and see through critical projects aligned with the administration’s priorities. Among the key initiatives listed are the modernisation of the Nigeria Customs Service, the implementation of the National Single Window Project, and the execution of Nigeria’s commitments under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) protocol. President Tinubu commended Adeniyi’s “steadfast leadership and commitment to service,” expressing confidence that the extension would further strengthen the Customs Service’s core mandate of trade facilitation, revenue generation, and border security.

Agriculture, Economy, National, News

FG to Establish Cattle Breeding Centres Across Six Geopolitical Zones

In a strategic move to modernize livestock production and bolster food security, the Federal Government has announced plans to establish cattle breeding centres in each of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, made the disclosure on Tuesday during the Citizens-Government Engagement and Midterm Performance Assessment of the Tinubu administration, held in Kaduna. The event was organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation. According to Abdullahi, the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and aims to transition Nigeria’s livestock sector from subsistence-based methods to structured, technology-driven practices. He noted that the new centres would serve as regional livestock hubs to enhance meat and dairy output while reducing tensions between farmers and herders. Read Also: Fixing the Forgotten Crisis: Solutions to Nigeria’s Herders-Farmers Conflict “The synergy among the ministries of agriculture, environment, water resources, livestock development, and marine and blue economy is crucial for achieving this national goal,” Abdullahi stated. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who also attended the event, shared updates about the programme on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle. He described the breeding centres as a cornerstone in the administration’s efforts to reform agricultural production and promote sustainable livelihoods. The Federal Government believes the project will help curb farmer-herder conflicts, improve yields, and contribute meaningfully to national food sufficiency targets. The initiative follows concerns raised earlier in April by the National Economic Council (NEC), which described Nigeria’s current livestock rearing practices as outdated and unsustainable. The council had called for urgent reforms, citing escalating violence in parts of the country—including Benue, Plateau, and Kwara states—where farmer-herder clashes have resulted in loss of lives and property. Briefing State House Correspondents after the NEC meeting, Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, stressed the need for a complete overhaul of the sector. “We cannot continue to live in the past. The time has come to embrace modern livestock production in Nigeria,” Diri stated. The cattle breeding centres are expected to form part of a broader roadmap toward achieving food security and rural development across Nigeria.

Kano, National, News, Politics

Tinubu, NNPP Rep Member Jibrin Meet Amid Defection Rumours

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday held a closed-door meeting with Hon. Abdulmumin Jibrin, former spokesperson for the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) 2023 presidential campaign and a key ally of Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso. The meeting, which took place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, comes amid growing speculation over possible political realignments within the NNPP and the potential return of prominent figures to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Read Also: Why They Are Afraid of Dr. Ganduje Jibrin, a lawmaker who represented Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency and has previously worked closely with both Tinubu and Kwankwaso, spoke to journalists after the meeting. He said discussions centered on national issues, but declined to confirm any concrete political moves. “I do not think it is time for that conversation. But everything is open, and everything is a possibility. The most important thing is the stability and unity of the country. I believe that when we get to the bridge, we’ll cross it,” Jibrin stated. His visit comes against the backdrop of recent criticisms by Senator Kwankwaso, the NNPP’s 2023 presidential candidate, who faulted President Tinubu’s handling of issues affecting northern Nigeria and national cohesion. When asked if his visit aimed at reconciling Tinubu and Kwankwaso, Jibrin responded “that the president is a first-class politician. The national leader of the NNPP is also a thoroughbred politician. I believe both are committed to the peace, unity, and prosperity of Nigeria. So, irrespective of the comments made, it shouldn’t be surprising that I’m seen at the Villa during this period.” Commenting on Tinubu’s performance in northern Nigeria, he added: “Every leader does his best, and it depends on how you want to rate him. You can decide to see the cup half full or half empty. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, it contributes to deepening national discourse. Sometimes, it might turn out to be a blessing in disguise.”

Economy, National, News

NNPCL Drills Four Oil Wells in Kolmani, Constructs Gas Plants in Kogi

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has disclosed that it has successfully drilled four oil wells in the Kolmani area of Bauchi State as part of its ongoing exploration and development initiatives in northern Nigeria. This was revealed by the company’s Director, Yusuf Usman, during a two-day interactive session on Government-Citizens Engagement, organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in Kaduna on Wednesday. Read Also: NNPC Rules Out Sale of Port Harcourt Refinery, Reaffirms Commitment to Rehabilitation “So far, the NNPCL has drilled four wells in the Kolmani area of Bauchi State,” Usman stated. “We are currently evaluating the appropriate technology to be deployed for the next phase of drilling operations.” He also highlighted the company’s broader efforts to expand oil and gas infrastructure in the northern region, including the construction of five gas processing facilities in Kogi State. “In support of President Tinubu’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative, five CNG and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plants are under construction in Kogi,” he said. “These plants are expected to significantly boost gas supply and accessibility across northern Nigeria.” Usman noted that the projects align with NNPCL’s mission to drive energy development nationwide, especially in previously under explored region.

Abuja, Health, News

FCTA to Begin Mandatory Hepatitis Screening for Food Handlers Across Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced plans to commence mandatory hepatitis screening for all food handlers operating in Abuja, as part of a renewed drive to promote public health and ensure food safety in the capital. The initiative, which targets food vendors in restaurants, markets, bakeries, and canteens, is aimed at curbing the spread of foodborne illnesses—particularly Hepatitis A and E, which are transmitted through contaminated food and water. The policy was unveiled in a statement marking World Hepatitis Day 2025, delivered on behalf of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, by the Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe. Read Also: Photos: Tinubu Inaugurates Greater Abuja Water Project to Expand Clean Water Access Dr. Fasawe emphasized that Abuja’s rapidly expanding and diverse population demands proactive health interventions. She warned that poor hygiene practices among food handlers could endanger public health, adding that Hepatitis B and C—spread through blood and bodily fluids—also pose risks in unsanitary environments. “To us, food handlers are not just service providers; they are essential public health stewards,” the Minister said. The screening programme will be rolled out through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework, combining private sector efficiency with regulatory oversight from the government. It aligns with the National Policy on Food Safety and Quality and will include routine Hepatitis B and C screening for all registered food handlers. Complementary measures under the initiative include free Hepatitis B vaccination at public health centres, mandatory food safety training incorporating hepatitis education, and stricter licensing, hygiene inspections, and medical requirements for food business operators. Minister Wike called on stakeholders—government agencies, healthcare providers, and food vendors—to support the effort and help eliminate the stigma associated with hepatitis. “Hygiene cannot wait. Screening cannot wait. Action cannot wait,” he said. “Together, let’s ensure the FCT leads by example, turning our food industry into a symbol of health, safety, and excellence.”

Benue, News, Politics

Benue Governor Dissolves Cabinet, Appoints New Chief of Staff

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has dissolved the Benue State Executive Council, marking a significant restructuring of the state’s administration. The announcement was made at the conclusion of the 12th Executive Council Meeting of 2025, where the Governor also confirmed the appointment of Barrister Moses Atagher as the new Chief of Staff. Atagher, a two-time former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in the state, is a seasoned administrator with a notable track record, including his previous role as Acting Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank. His appointment takes immediate effect. Read Also: Why They Are Afraid of Dr. Ganduje Governor Alia expressed appreciation to the outgoing Commissioners for their service over the past two years. He urged those who may not be reappointed to remain loyal to the party and continue contributing to its progress, noting that their exit paves the way for others to serve. “The dissolution affects only Commissioners. All former Commissioners are directed to hand over to the Permanent Secretaries of their respective Ministries without delay,” the Governor stated. Speaking on behalf of the former Commissioners, Barr. Bemsen Mnyim thanked the Governor for the opportunity to serve. “At every stage in life, everywhere you are called to serve is a school. We have learnt a lot while working with you,” he said. The development signals a fresh phase in Governor Alia’s administration, with expectations of new appointments in the coming days.

Adamawa, News

Heavy Rainfall Submerges Parts of Maiduguri, Leaves Residents Homeless

Several parts of Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, were submerged on Wednesday following a torrential downpour that lasted more than three hours, displacing residents and crippling movement across the city. The heavy rainfall flooded major roads and residential areas, leaving vehicles stranded and forcing residents to wade through rising waters. A correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) who visited affected areas reported severe impacts in neighborhoods such as Moro-Moro, Damboa Road, Customs, Bulumkutu, Dubai near Maimalari Barracks, and the Pompomari By-pass. Read Also: NiMet Forecasts Thunderstorms, Warns of Flash Floods Across Nigeria Many residents scrambled to salvage belongings from their homes and shops as floodwaters surged into buildings. “We did not expect anything like this,” said Ibrahim Goni, a resident of Moro-Moro. “Our drainage systems are completely blocked, and water from the roads just flowed straight into our homes. Many people have lost their properties.” In Bulumkutu, people used planks and old tyres to navigate flooded roads, attempting to avoid being swept away by the current. Aisha Hassan, a trader, lamented the loss of her shop and goods. “It rained non-stop for over three hours. Water started entering our houses before we could pack our things. Women are crying over foodstuffs, clothing, and other items washed away,” she said. At Pompomari By-pass—a major route linking various parts of the city—commercial vehicles and tricycles were forced to abandon the flooded road due to the high water level. Motorists and pedestrians waded through knee-deep water, while some residents erected makeshift barricades in an attempt to redirect the flood away from their homes. Mr. Sirajo Aliyu, Zonal Coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), said the agency is working closely with the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the military, police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Borno State Emergency Management Agency (BOSEMA) to assess the extent of the damage. “We have received reports from several flashpoints across Maiduguri, and we have already mobilised response teams. We have visited some areas around Moro-Moro along Customs,” he said. Aliyu added that the team was currently at Alau Dam to assess the water level, while the State Committee on the Prevention of Flood had begun preliminary checks in other affected locations.

National, News

NNPC Rules Out Sale of Port Harcourt Refinery, Reaffirms Commitment to Rehabilitation

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has dismissed speculations regarding the sale of the Port Harcourt Refining Company, reaffirming its commitment to completing the plant’s rehabilitation and retaining it under national control. The Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPC Ltd, Mr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, made this known during a company-wide town hall meeting held on Tuesday at the NNPC Towers in Abuja. Ojulari clarified that the decision was not a change in direction but rather the result of ongoing technical and financial evaluations of the Port Harcourt, Kaduna, and Warri refineries. According to him, the earlier plan to operate the Port Harcourt refinery prior to full completion of its rehabilitation was “ill-informed and sub-commercial.” Read Also: FG Approves 37 New Oil Evacuation Routes to Tackle Theft, Boost Production — NUPRC While acknowledging progress across the three refineries, he noted that the emerging realities require more advanced technical partnerships to complete and upgrade the Port Harcourt plant. As a result, the sale of the refinery has been ruled out, with Ojulari warning that divestment could lead to further value erosion. The announcement follows widespread speculation after Ojulari’s comments during an interview at the 2025 OPEC Seminar in Vienna, Austria, where he said “all options are on the table.” That remark had prompted media reports about a possible sale of national refining assets. His latest statement was met with applause from hundreds of staff at the town hall meeting, who welcomed it as a clear and reassuring signal of a business-focused direction for the company. More than just a performance review, the meeting provided a platform for frank discussions and strategic realignment. Executive Vice Presidents from various business units including Upstream, Downstream, Gas, Power, Finance, and New Energy delivered progress reports detailing reforms, operational gains, and areas requiring attention. Ojulari acknowledged past challenges and missteps while outlining a clear roadmap for the future. He emphasized that NNPC Ltd remains committed to its role as the strategic custodian of Nigeria’s energy infrastructure. “This decision supports our mandate to ensure energy security, retain critical national assets, and operate with transparency and professionalism,” he said. The announcement also aligns with the Federal Government’s broader objective of strengthening national energy independence. Feedback from staff during and after the session reflected renewed enthusiasm, with many describing the engagement as “transformational” and “hope-inspiring.” NNPC Ltd, Ojulari added, will continue its repositioning as a commercially-driven and professionally-managed national energy company focused on performance and the interest of its primary stakeholders, the Nigerian people.

National, News

Tinubu Appoints Olumode Adeyemi as New Fire Service Boss

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Deputy Controller General (DCG) Olumode Samuel Adeyemi as the new Controller General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS). The announcement was made through the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), following the imminent retirement of the current Controller General, Engr. Abdulganiyu Jaji Olola, who is due to leave office on 13th August, 2025, upon attaining the age of 60. In a statement signed Wednesday in Abuja by the Board Secretary, Abdulmalik Jibril, DCG Olumode Adeyemi was described as a seasoned officer with vast experience, having transferred from the FCT Fire Service to the Federal Fire Service, and rising through the ranks to become Deputy Controller-General in charge of Human Resources at the Service Headquarters. Read Also: Kano Gets Major Slots in Tinubu’s New Appointments He has completed all mandatory in-service and command courses, and attended training programs both locally and internationally. He is also a member and fellow of several professional bodies, including the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), Institute of Corporate Administration, Institute of Public Administration of Nigeria, and the Chartered Institute of Treasury Management. The Board commended the outgoing CG, Engr. Olola, for his dedication and for initiating impactful reforms in the Federal Fire Service during his tenure.

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