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Concerned marketers and stakeholders around the country has called on the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMPDRA) to strengthen oversight of fuel standards entering the country whether imported, refined or retailed and dispensed all over the country, warning against the influx of contaminated petroleum products that may have lacked proper octane ratings, sulphur contents and other pollutants. In a statement issued to newsmen, the marketers expressed concern that substandard fuel may have been imported, refined or sold in the country pose serious risks to consumers, vehicles, and public safety. The marketers emphasized that the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) mandates strict adherence to safety standards, and approved guidelines for fuel quality, including octane ratings, sulphur contents etc. They noted that fuel with poor octane ratings can damage engines, compromise efficiency, and increase the risk of fire outbreaks. Recent incidents of fires at filling stations across the country were cited as evidence of the dangers posed by contaminated fuel. “The standards of fuel imported, refined, supplied and distributed should not be compromised to the benefits of any player in the industry,” the statement read, underscoring the need for accountability. Read Also: Nigeria Must Integrate Innovation, Policy, and Research for Growth — Bindir The stakeholders urged the NMPDRA leadership under Engineer Saidu Aliyu to carry all stakeholders along as stipulated by section 216 of the PIA. They argued that transporters, refinery owners, and importers all have roles stipulated under the PIA. “The Chief Regulator was appointed to execute this mandate,” the group asserted. The statement further stressed that Nigerians deserve value for money when purchasing fuel. “Ultra-modern refineries, and depot facilities that import fuel must provide fuel with good octane ratings. It is not proper for such facilities to compromise standards,” the consortium said. They urged the NMPDRA to examine both imported and locally refined petroleum products to ensure compliance with safety and quality benchmarks.

In a move to modernise Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), in partnership with MTN Nigeria, has launched free high-speed WiFi services for passengers across selected international airports. The initiative was piloted on Thursday at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Terminal 2 in Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, officially unveiled the service at MMIA Terminal 2. She was represented at the event by the Director of Airport Operations, Capt. Abdullahi Mahmood, who described the initiative as a significant milestone for Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem. According to Kuku, the rollout sets a new benchmark in digital infrastructure and passenger experience across the country’s airports. She disclosed that the free WiFi service would be extended to the MMIA Temporary Terminal within weeks, before expanding to airports in Enugu, Port Harcourt, and Kano over the next three months. Read Also: Ganduje, Kuku Lead Nigeria’s Airports Into a New Era “In 21st century Nigeria, no airport should remain an offline island,” she said. “This collaboration with MTN Nigeria demonstrates how effective Public-Private Partnership alignment can modernise infrastructure and strengthen the nation’s digital economy.” Kuku reaffirmed FAAN’s commitment to bridging service gaps and improving operational efficiency nationwide. “This WiFi is our promise that FAAN is listening. While we have turned on the signal today, the message is clear: Nigerian aviation is entering a new phase of innovation, partnership, and commitment to excellence,” she added. She noted that the project aligns with the digital economy agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the reform-driven vision of the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo. Kuku also commended MTN Nigeria for its technical expertise and investment, describing the partnership as transformative and purpose-driven. Speaking on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria, Karl Toriola, the Chief Enterprise Business Officer, Lynda Saint-Nwafor, assured passengers of reliable, secure, and efficient connectivity. “This initiative reflects our shared commitment to enhancing passenger experience and expanding digital access across public infrastructure,” she said. She noted that airports serve as key gateways for business travellers, tourists, and service providers who rely on seamless internet connectivity. “With this service, passengers can stay connected while waiting to board, in transit, or upon arrival,” she added. MTN Nigeria also announced plans to commence on-ground engagement campaigns at the Lagos and Abuja airports in the coming weeks to drive awareness and encourage usage. The telecom company stated that the project reinforces its commitment to national infrastructure development and expanding digital inclusion in public spaces.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed the Electoral Act 2026 (Amendment) Bill into law, days after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) unveiled the timetable for the 2027 general elections. The signing ceremony took place on Wednesday at about 5:00 p.m. at the State House, Abuja, in the presence of principal officers of the National Assembly. The National Assembly had on Tuesday passed the Electoral Act 2026 (Amendment) Bill, paving the way for presidential assent. The latest amendment follows intense public debate over the electronic transmission of election results in real time, a contentious issue that has generated nationwide discussions among political stakeholders and civil society groups. Read Also: INEC Sets Dates for 2027 Presidential, Governorship Elections Last week, protests erupted at the National Assembly complex as civil society organisations and opposition figures urged lawmakers to mandate the live transmission of results directly from polling units to INEC’s central server. The protesters maintained that real-time electronic transmission would minimise manipulation of results and strengthen public confidence in the electoral process. However, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and some stakeholders expressed concerns over the technical feasibility of implementing live transmission nationwide, particularly in areas with poor telecommunications infrastructure. They advocated a phased or hybrid approach that would permit manual collation in instances where electronic systems encounter challenges. The new amendment is expected to shape preparations for the 2027 general elections, as INEC and political actors begin aligning with the revised legal framework.