National
Energy Advocates, APC Group Urge Tinubu To Investigate Local Refineries
The Energy Reforms Advocates (ERA) and the APC Youth Vanguard for Change (APCYVC) have called on President Bola Tinubu to look into the ongoing failures of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) in restoring the Port Harcourt and other local refineries.
The organizations expressed alarm over the $2.9 billion allocated in 2021 for the rehabilitation of these refineries, which continue to remain inactive despite assurances from NNPCL.
In their letter to the President, they highlighted the deteriorating condition of Nigeria’s petroleum sector, attributing it to the persistent failures of NNPCL and its leadership, particularly Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari.
ERA Convener Opialu Fabian and APCYVC Convener Ezewanka Ugochukwu, who co-signed the letter, noted that these failures have resulted in economic sabotage, health hazards, and environmental risks stemming from the importation of substandard fuel.
They criticized NNPCL’s repeated commitments and ongoing inaction, pointing to systemic failures and corruption within its leadership.
The letter questioned how the funds designated for refinery rehabilitation have been utilized, suggesting a lack of accountability. Despite billions spent on maintenance over the past 25 years, there has been little to no fuel production.
The coalition has raised concerns regarding Mele Kyari’s leadership, urging President Tinubu to initiate a comprehensive investigation into his administration.
Among the demands, they called for a probe to uncover the truth behind the ongoing failures and alleged financial misconduct.
The groups proposed urgent measures such as overhauling the regulatory framework, reactivating local refineries, ensuring transparency in subsidy implementation, strengthening NNPCL’s leadership, and enhancing public access to information.
The letter stated: “Your Excellency, we are facing a critical situation. Despite the $2.9 billion approved in 2021 for the rehabilitation of these essential refineries, they remain inactive. NNPCL has consistently assured Nigerians that these facilities would soon be operational, yet these promises have not materialized.
“The refineries lie dormant while Nigeria, the largest oil producer in Africa, depends on foreign countries for its fuel needs. The ongoing importation of substandard fuel not only betrays public trust but highlights a systemic failure within NNPCL’s leadership.
“The influx of adulterated fuel undermines the health, safety, and economic stability of Nigerians. This low-quality fuel damages vehicles and agricultural machinery while citizens pay inflated prices, contributing to rising inflation and daily struggles.
“It is unacceptable that Nigeria, as a top oil-producing nation, must rely on imported petroleum products to satisfy domestic demand. This reliance threatens our foreign reserves while a corrupt few profit immensely, actively opposing efforts to rehabilitate our refineries.
“At the heart of this issue is the NNPCL leadership, which appears either unable or unwilling to meet its responsibilities. Mr. Mele Kyari must be held accountable for these failures.
“The importation of substandard fuel poses serious risks to the health of citizens and the environment. Vehicles, agricultural equipment, and generators are all vulnerable to damage from this inferior fuel.
“It is time for systemic reform. The challenges we face are complex, rooted in institutional corruption, regulatory shortcomings, and a culture of impunity. We propose immediate actions, including:
– Comprehensive investigation and accountability
– Revamping the regulatory framework
– Reactivating local refineries
– Ensuring transparency in subsidy implementation
– Strengthening NNPCL’s leadership and oversight
– Empowering the public with information and action.
“Mr. President, as Nigeria seeks to pave a path toward sustainable economic growth, self-sufficiency, and a brighter future for its citizens, energy security must be a priority. The current actions and inactions of NNPCL and its leadership are undermining our national interests. We urge Your Excellency to take swift and decisive action to address these enduring failures.”
National
Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire Congratulates Otunba Olufemi Pedro on LASU Honorary Doctorate
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SSAP-SDGs), Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, has congratulated former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency, Otunba Olufemi Pedro, on the conferment of an Honorary Doctorate Degree by the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo.
The honorary degree is being awarded as part of the institution’s 28th Convocation Ceremony, scheduled to hold on Thursday, 10th April 2025, at the Buba Marwa Auditorium, Main Campus, Lagos.
In a statement released on Wednesday by her Special Assistant on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communications, Desmond Utomwen, Princess Orelope-Adefulire described the honour as “well-deserved and long overdue,” noting that Otunba Pedro’s life and career reflect a legacy of excellence, innovation, and integrity in both the public and private sectors.
“Otunba Pedro’s remarkable journey—spanning the financial sector and public service—is a shining example of visionary leadership and selfless dedication to national development,” the statement read.
“As former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, he played a pivotal role in laying the foundations for the fiscal reforms that have contributed immensely to the state’s economic growth and transformation.”
Princess Orelope-Adefulire further stated that the conferment by LASU is not just a recognition of Pedro’s achievements, but an affirmation of the enduring values he represents: humility, integrity, and service to humanity.
She commended the Lagos State University for recognising one of its most distinguished alumni, adding that the honour would serve as motivation for emerging leaders and professionals across Nigeria and beyond.
“This award is a timely reminder that true greatness is measured not only by accomplishments, but by the positive impact one has on people, institutions, and society at large,” she added.
She prayed for God’s continued guidance, strength, and good health for Otunba Pedro as he continues to contribute meaningfully to the development of Lagos State, Nigeria, and the global community.
A civil society organisation in Zamfara State has strongly criticised Governor Dauda Lawal, accusing him of gross incompetence and failure to secure the lives and property of the citizens under his watch.
In a scathing statement signed by the group’s Publicity Secretary, Dr Suleiman Ibrahim Usman, the organisation alleged that Governor Lawal has abandoned his responsibilities, choosing instead to blame his predecessor, Dr Bello Matawalle, for the state’s persistent security challenges.
“Governor Lawal has failed woefully in his primary duty of safeguarding the people of Zamfara,” the group said.
“Rather than tackle the escalating insecurity, he spends his time pointing fingers at his predecessor, all while living lavishly and ignoring the plight of his people.”
The group criticised what it described as the governor’s “luxurious lifestyle”, claiming that while communities in the state suffer from hunger, sickness, and fear of bandit attacks, Governor Lawal is busy acquiring exotic vehicles.
“It is disgraceful for a leader of a traumatised state to indulge in such extravagance,” the statement read.
The statement further accused the governor of mismanaging the state’s increased federal allocation and internal revenue, questioning what tangible security investments have been made since he assumed office.
“Under Governor Matawalle, despite limited funds, security agencies received over 200 Hilux vehicles and motorcycles. What has Governor Lawal done with the increased allocation?” the group queried.
The civil society group also criticised the ongoing road projects in the state, describing them as mere reconstructions of long-standing roads rather than the development of new infrastructure.
“These are not new roads; they are just politically motivated renovations focused mostly on his own local government area,” the statement alleged.
It condemned aides of the governor for attacking the current Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, saying he had contributed to improved security in the state.
“Thanks to Matawalle’s interventions, many villages are now able to sleep with both eyes closed, and farming activities are gradually returning,” Dr Usman claimed.
“It is only hypocrites or those who have never stepped foot in Zamfara that would commend this administration. We challenge anyone to visit the state and see the suffering of the people firsthand.”
National
Enugu Ministers’ Roundtable To Equip Church Leaders for Spiritual Harvest, Says KARM Leader
The Kingdom Apostolic Revival Ministries (KARM) has unveiled plans for a significant gathering dubbed the Enugu Ministers’ Roundtable, aimed at equipping church leaders and workers for what its convener describes as an “imminent harvest of souls.”
The announcement was made on Tuesday by Apostle John Enelamah, leader of KARM, in a statement released to journalists,on Tuesday.
The conference, scheduled for 11-12 April 2025 at the Jesus the Way Gospel Mission Auditorium in New Era Layout, Akwunanu, Enugu, is expected to draw ministers and church workers from across Nigeria’s South East and South South regions.
Apostle Enelamah emphasised that the event would not only address the spiritual needs of attendees but also tackle their temporal concerns, while fostering discussions on expanding the reach of the Christian faith.
“The Ministers’ Roundtable is a forum where ministers and church workers will come together to fellowship and receive the Word of God, equipping them for the great work ahead,” Enelamah said.
“God’s move and revival are sweeping across the nations, and Nigeria has a pivotal role to play in these end times.”
Enelamah highlighted Enugu’s strategic importance in the South East as a key reason for hosting the event there, noting that the conference would serve as a springboard for further outreach in the region.
He also revealed plans for a future gathering, the Mission To West Africa (MTWA) Conference, set to take place in Umuahia in February 2026.
The Enugu Ministers’ Roundtable will feature prominent Christian leaders, including Archbishop Chris Ede of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Enugu Archdiocese; Bishop Obi Onubuogu of Rock Family Church; and Apostle Chuks Alozie of the Abia Apostolic Intercessory Team.
The event will be hosted by Rev John Uga, with sessions running from 9am to 4pm on 11 April and resuming at 9am on 12 April.
In his statement, Enelamah urged ministers “thirsty and hungry for greater exploits in their ministry” to attend, promising a spiritually enriching experience that would “build up our most holy faith.”
He added that KARM intends to collaborate closely with ministers in Enugu and other parts of southern Nigeria to strengthen the church’s mission.