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OVERSIGHT OR OVERREACH: HOW FEDERAL AGENCIES UNDERMINE KANO STATE GOVERNMENT

OVERSIGHT OR OVERREACH: HOW FEDERAL AGENCIES UNDERMINE KANO STATE GOVERNMENT

“In principle, the role of EFCC, ICPC and other security agencies is to serve the Nigerian people by ensuring that no public officer abuses office or mismanages resources. However in Kano State – they have fully become political weapons.”

By Aminu Hussaini Sagagi

In recent years, Nigerians have witnessed a troubling trend in the nation’s democratic practice – in the increasing use of federal oversight agencies as political tools. Nowhere is this dynamic more glaring than in Kano State where the federal government’s top officials appear to have systematically deployed regulatory and security institutions to weaken the state government and tilt the balance of power for partisan advantage.

Whereas, in theory, government oversight is the lifeblood of accountability. In practice – at least in Kano State – it has fully become a political weapon. Across a series of investigations, lawsuits and injunctions, federal institutions have been accused of using their powers not to promote good governance, but to undermine it.

“There is increasing use of federal oversight agencies as political tools. Whereas, in theory, government oversight is the lifeblood of accountability. In practice – at least in Kano State – it has fully become a political weapon”

Investigations, eyewitness accounts and review of events reveal disturbing patterns with agencies such as the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and federal security bodies constitutionally mandated to uphold accountability and the rule of law. In principle, their role is to serve the Nigerian people by ensuring that no public officer abuses office or mismanages resources.

However, in Kano State, these agencies often seem to operate with selective vigour. Investigations, arrests and public pronouncements tend to target state government officials or its allies, while federal appointees and political actors’ aligned with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) largely appear untouched. This pattern not only undermines public trust but also suggests a strategic effort to destabilize the current Kano’s political leadership.
Why Kano? The Political Stakes and Political Calculations behind Oversight Overreach
Kano is a political prize in Nigeria. With its vast population, it plays a decisive role in national elections. Weakening the state government or creating the perception of dysfunction serves a clear political purpose and electoral logic: it reduces the ability of local leaders to mobilize support, while strengthening the hand of federal-aligned opposition figures.

By leveraging oversight bodies, federal authorities gain the dual advantage of projecting themselves as anti-corruption champions while quietly eroding the political base of their rivals. This is not accountability; it is a calculated suppression.

The Democratic Cost of Targeting State Government Officials in Seemingly Selective and Politically Motivated Anti-Corruption Crackdowns
The instrumentalization of federal oversight agencies for political gain carries dire consequences. First, it delegitimizes the agencies themselves, turning them from impartial guardians of accountability into partisan weapons. Second, it erodes federalism, denying states the space to govern effectively without constant interference. Third, it risks alienating citizens, who see law enforcement not as a shield for justice but as a sword of politics.
Ultimately, this cycle deepens mistrust between federal and state institutions, widens political divisions and undermines the spirit of Nigeria’s democracy.

A Path Forward
For Nigeria to strengthen its democracy, oversight bodies must be insulated from political manipulations. Appointments should be transparent, tenure secure and operations subject to bipartisan legislative scrutiny. Equally, civil society and the media must continue to expose selective enforcement and call for reforms that restore the credibility of these institutions.

Kano State’s experience is a cautionary tale and also an opportunity. By confronting the misuse of federal power, Kanawas and Nigerians can insist on a democracy where oversight agencies serve citizens, not partisan interests.

This personal opinion is contributed by Aminu Hussaini Sagagi, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State on Justice/Constitutional Matters

Baptist Conference Commends Tinubu, Uba Sani; Seeks Justice for Victims of Violence

Baptist Conference Commends Tinubu, Uba Sani; Seeks Justice for Victims of Violence

The Baptist Theological Seminary, Kaduna, has reaffirmed the authority of Scripture and urged the Church in Northern Nigeria to lead by example in promoting honesty, compassion, and national transformation.

This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the Seminary’s 65th Annual Ministers’ Conference, held from October 6–10, 2025, under the theme “The Authority of Scripture and the Mission of the Church in Troubled Times.”

The conference, organized by the Nigeria Baptist Convention for pastors across the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, brought together over 4,000 pastors and 5,000 churches representing about four million Baptist members.

Delegates at the week-long meeting reaffirmed that obedience to God’s Word remains the only path to moral renewal, national peace, and spiritual revival. They also emphasized that the Church must not only preach salvation but live out biblical values that challenge corruption and promote integrity in society.

The communiqué was jointly signed by Rev. Joseph John Hayab, Chairman of the Board of Governors, and Rev. Dr. Mannaseh Panpe, Acting President of the Seminary, decried the extravagance in weddings and burials, describing it as a distortion of Christian values. It urged ministers to model moderation and godly contentment rather than promote burdensome cultural practices.

Expressing concern over the silence of some church leaders in the face of moral decay and injustice, the ministers called on clergy to “speak truth to power with courage and wisdom,” insisting that the Church must remain the conscience of the nation.

The Board of Governors of the Seminary pledged continued investment in theological education and leadership development, commending the management for hosting a spiritually enriching conference. It also announced plans to appoint a substantive President soon, while lauding the Seminary’s partnership with Bethel High School as a model for Christian education.

On national matters, the Conference lamented the low voter participation among Christians and directed pastors to encourage members to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing political engagement as both a civic and moral duty.

Delegates also acknowledged the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani in improving national security and unity but urged governments to sustain reforms and ensure justice for victims of violence.

Reacting to the United States Senate’s move to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over religious freedom concerns, the ministers warned that such action could worsen insecurity and hinder access to needed security support. They appealed to international partners to pursue constructive engagement instead.

The Conference further called on government to address the growing economic hardship and insecurity in the country, urging leaders to govern with the fear of God and prioritize people’s welfare above political interests.

KEPA Intensifies Enforcement of Waste Management Laws Under New Leadership

KEPA Intensifies Enforcement of Waste Management Laws Under New Leadership

Mobile Court Tours Corporate Premises, Sanctions Violators Across Kaduna

By Usman Luka

The Kaduna State Environmental Protection Authority (KEPA), under the energetic leadership of its new Acting General Manager, Yahaya Yakubu Victor, has intensified enforcement of the state’s waste management laws to ensure that solid waste in Kaduna and other towns is properly handled.

Since assuming office, Victor has rejuvenated the agency’s operations, placing emphasis on compliance, environmental education, and partnership with licensed waste management firms to restore the state’s environmental integrity.

On Wednesday, 9 October 2025, KEPA launched a mobile court tour, visiting several corporate organizations in Kaduna to enforce its directive that all companies must register and work with authorized waste management teams.

The mobile court addressed multiple organizations — including Sapphire, Rittys, FCMB, Synlab, Mussafir Hotel, and United Surgical Ltd — issuing fines and sanctions for various environmental violations.

Sapphire Fined ₦150,000

The case involving Sapphire was adjourned, with the court ordering the company to pay a fine of ₦150,000 before the next hearing.

Rittys Allowed but Warned to Liaise with Ecoblue

Rittys, located at No. 26 Maiduguri Road, Kaduna, faced allegations of using an unauthorized waste disposal company. The firm pleaded not guilty.

Barr. Steve Swam, KEPA’s prosecuting lawyer, called Emmanuel Noel, KEPA’s Assistant Director and Chief Environmental Superintendent, as the principal witness. Noel testified that Rittys had initially engaged Ecoblue Waste Management, a KEPA-licensed contractor, but later switched to another operator.

David Enwerem, General Manager of Rittys, told the court that the company had complied with KEPA’s earlier directives by registering and obtaining a license for its waste management team. After reviewing the evidence, the court allowed Rittys to continue operations on the grounds that it had previously contracted a KEPA-licensed waste management team.

However, the court warned Rittys to immediately liaise with Ecoblue Waste Management once its current contract expires in a few months, in compliance with KEPA’s latest directive.

FCMB Sanctioned ₦50,000

First City Monument Bank (FCMB), located on Constitution Road, Kaduna, was fined ₦50,000 for failing to use a registered waste management contractor, contrary to Section 21 of KEPA laws. The bank’s representative denied the allegation but the court found evidence of non-compliance.

Synlab Penalized for Obstruction

Synlab was fined ₦50,000 for non-compliance with KEPA regulations and an additional ₦30,000 against one staff member for contempt of court after obstructing KEPA officers during official duties.

Mussafir Hotel, United Surgical Ltd Also Fined

Mussafir Hotel was fined ₦500,000 for failing to use an authorized waste management team.
United Surgical Ltd faced multiple violations, including the use of unauthorized waste handlers and obstructing mobile court officials. The judge ruled that the company must pay ₦500,000 for the first offense and ₦50,000 for the second.

Ecoblue Declared Sole KEPA-Authorized Waste Manager

Speaking to journalists, Mr. Uchenna Jumbo, Consultant to KEPA and Head of Ecoblue Waste Management, reaffirmed that Ecoblue has been designated as the sole body authorized by KEPA to manage the evacuation and disposal of solid waste across Kaduna State.

“We are committed to keeping Kaduna’s environment clean and safe. Under the directive of KEPA, all waste management organizations are required to register with Ecoblue Waste Management,” Jumbo said.

“We shall train them on modern techniques for proper solid waste evacuation and disposal, and we’ll track the movement of waste to ensure it’s not dumped in unauthorized sites.”

He urged residents and corporate organizations to confirm with KEPA and Ecoblue before hiring any waste handlers. Jumbo added:

“Under the leadership of General Manager Yahaya Yakubu Victor, Kaduna will soon wear a new look — a greener, cleaner, and more eco-friendly city with a revitalized waste management system.”

‘Fruitful Exercise,’ Says KEPA Lawyer

KEPA’s lead attorney, Barr. Steve Swam, described the mobile court sitting as highly productive.

“Today was very fruitful because most organizations complied after KEPA’s earlier notices. The few that failed to comply were sanctioned accordingly,” Swam told journalists after the court session.

He said the new KEPA management’s commitment to environmental reform was already yielding results.

Cleaner Kaduna in Sight

Observers say the new KEPA administration under Yahaya Yakubu Victor has brought renewed vigor to Kaduna’s environmental management. The ongoing mobile court enforcement drive is widely seen as a major step toward transforming Kaduna into one of Nigeria’s cleanest and most environmentally responsible states.

Uniting for Progress: Tom Garba Meets Gov Sani’s Adviser to Forge Path to Kaduna’s Prosperity

Uniting for Progress: Tom Garba Meets Gov Sani’s Adviser to Forge Path to Kaduna’s Prosperity

In a powerful demonstration of grassroots synergy and unwavering commitment to progress, Mr. Tom Garba, the dynamic publisher of TGNews and a proud son of Lere Local Government Area in Kaduna State, has convened a pivotal meeting with Alhaji Isa Sani, Adviser on Domestic Affairs to Governor Senator Uba Sani.

The encounter, held amid rising calls for collaborative development, focused on bolstering the governor’s ambitious vision for a “total rebirth” of Kaduna State, addressing key challenges in infrastructure, security, and economic empowerment.

Garba, renowned for his investigative journalism and community advocacy through TGNews—a leading digital platform delivering breaking news and in-depth analysis—has long positioned himself as a catalyst for positive change in Kaduna.

Hailing from Garun Kurama in Lere LGA, a region celebrated for its cultural richness and resilience, Garba’s efforts transcend media; his foundation actively supports initiatives like the Taiye Foundation to alleviate hardships exacerbated by previous administrations’ shortcomings.

“We have been doing this from long ago, and we’ll continue as God gives us the strength,” Garba affirmed, vowing never to rest while his people endure difficulties.

His philanthropic drive mirrors the state-wide transformations under Governor Uba Sani, whose two years in office have yielded remarkable strides in infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

During the extensive discussions, the duo delved into the “state of the state,” exploring avenues for Garba’s media and foundation resources to amplify Sani’s reforms.

Alhaji Isa Sani, a key figure in the governor’s inner circle, reassured citizens of Uba Sani’s steadfast resolve to elevate Kaduna, evident in achievements like upgrading primary healthcare centers, constructing over 600 classrooms, building 62 new secondary schools, and empowering thousands through micro-business grants and women’s programs.

“The governor’s willingness to transform Kaduna is visible and unwavering,” Isa Sani remarked, highlighting initiatives that have bridged ethno-religious divides and fostered peace.

Garba’s engagement underscores his broader quest to uplift Lere and Kaduna, aligning seamlessly with Uba Sani’s priorities in agriculture promotion, job creation, and security enhancements, including community policing with 7,000 vigilantes and distributed patrol vehicles.

As pressure mounts from Lere West constituents urging Garba to contest the Kaduna State House of Representatives in 2027, he remains steadfast: “Leadership is not about the office one occupies but the heart. I’ll continue serving with or without office.”

This stance echoes his mentor-like respect for elders, with Isa Sani positioned as a guiding “elder brother” whose wisdom Garba taps at every step.

Observers view the meeting as strategically poised to yield tangible results, potentially channeling Garba’s influence into amplifying state projects like rural road networks connecting farms to markets and sustainable development partnerships.

Addressing journalists, Garba emphasized, “This alliance will surely bear positive fruits for our people.” In Lere—a vibrant LGA with a population exceeding 550,000 and historical significance as home to the Lere Emirate—such collaborations signal hope for economic revival and cultural preservation.

Governor Uba Sani’s administration, praised by President Tinubu for restoring stability and progress, has indeed “changed the toxic environment to one of peace,” with projects like CNG buses and metro rail approvals boosting connectivity.

Garba’s involvement exemplifies how visionary individuals can partner with government to accelerate this momentum, ensuring no citizen is left behind. As Kaduna surges toward prosperity, figures like Tom Garba embody the spirit of service that defines true leadership.

SOKAPU YOUTH WING CALLS FOR URGENT SCHOLARSHIP INTERVENTION AS HIGH FEES AT FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES THREATEN EDUCATION ACCESS

SOKAPU YOUTH WING CALLS FOR URGENT SCHOLARSHIP INTERVENTION AS HIGH FEES AT FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF APPLIED SCIENCES THREATEN EDUCATION ACCESS

The Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU) Youth Wing issued a press release on the 7th October, 2025 appealing to the Kaduna State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Uba Sani, to urgently introduce a comprehensive scholarship scheme for indigenes seeking admission into the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia (FUASK). This plea is necessitated by the significantly high tuition fees levied by the institution, which pose a severe barrier to accessing tertiary education for our people.
The tuition and associated fees at the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kaduna, are alarmingly high for the average family in Kaduna State. With core program fees ranging from ₦160,000 to ₦250,000 per annum (excluding acceptance and accommodation fees), these costs place the institution’s offerings far beyond the financial reach of a significant portion of our community.
The programs offered at FUASK are vital for developing critical human capital in specialized fields. Denying our bright, motivated youth access to these crucial programs solely based on unaffordability is a disservice to the future development of Kaduna State and Nigeria at large.
This financial challenge brings back painful memories of the actions taken by the immediate past administration of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, which implemented an astronomical increase in tuition fees across all state-owned tertiary institutions. This sudden and substantial hike, which saw fees in institutions like Kaduna State University (KASU) jump from under ₦30,000 to over ₦150,000 for indigenes, had a devastating impact.
However, we appreciate the current administration led by His Excellency, Sen. Uba Sani for commendably reviewing and reducing the fees in state-owned institutions, thereby fulfilling an election promise and offering much-needed relief.
We, the Sokapu Youth Wing, recognize Governor Uba Sani’s commitment and his recent efforts to make education more accessible to all. We are appealing to the Kaduna State Government to:

Establish a Targeted Scholarship Scheme: Create a dedicated scholarship or bursary program for all indigenes of Kaduna State admitted into the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kaduna, specifically designed to cover a substantial portion of the high tuition fees.
Review Financial Aid Structure: Harmonize and significantly increase the amount of existing need-based local scholarships through the Kaduna State Scholarship and Loans Board to reflect the current economic realities and the high fees charged by specialized federal institutions like FUASK.
Education is the most powerful tool for empowerment and poverty alleviation. We urge Governor Uba Sani to act decisively to ensure that no qualified indigene of Kaduna State is denied the opportunity to attend this specialized institution simply because their family is poor. Let us ensure that the foundation of knowledge laid at FUASK is accessible to all, irrespective of financial background.

However, we wish to add our voice to the ongoing political debates in our region, particularly the exchanges between political parties over the uncertain political future of some of our federal lawmakers.

The Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), under the leadership of Comrade Samuel Tabara, remains apolitical. Our primary concern is the development of Southern Kaduna, regardless of the political platform through which such progress is achieved.

SOKAPU will never compromise its core values, the defense, and the promotion of our people’s collective interests. We, therefore, urge politicians to sheathe their swords and put the interest of the region above personal or partisan considerations. Politics should not become an altar upon which relationships, unity, or progress are sacrificed.

If the advancement of Southern Kaduna can best be realized under any political party, so be it. Political parties are merely vehicles for accessing power; what matters most to us is how that power is used to better the lives of our people.

We appeal to all stakeholders to avoid name-calling and unnecessary exchanges over individual political choices. The ongoing rumours about defections should be unifying and not become a source of division or hostility. It must be noted that our block votes in successive elections have earned us respect and political capital. Therefore, if political realignment would help to reenact this feat, so be it. After all, in politics there are no permanent friends nor enemies, the only thing that gains primacy and pride of place is the interest of our People.
If our collective goal truly remains the development and progress of our people, then we must de-emphasize politics and prioritize development.

Signed:
Comrade Solomon Simon,
Coordinator SOKAPU National Youth Wing

Uba Sani Releases ₦2.3bn for Retirees and Families of Deceased Workers

Uba Sani Releases ₦2.3bn for Retirees and Families of Deceased Workers

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, CON, has approved the release of ₦2.321 billion for the settlement of pension entitlements, gratuities and death benefits to retirees and families of deceased civil servants across the state.

The disbursement covers Accrued Rights under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) and Gratuity/Death Benefits under the old Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS). With this payment, Kaduna State has now paid out ₦6.678bn in 2025 and a total of ₦13.5bn in the last two years of the present administration.

Kaduna State Commissioner of Information, Malam Ahmed Maiyaki, said the welfare of pensioners remains a top priority of the government, stressing that regular and timely payments will continue to ease the hard ship of senior citizens.

According to the Executive Secretary, Ibrahim Balarabe – Kaduna State Pension Bureau, the latest batch will benefit 661 retirees and families across State and Local Governments — with ₦1.736bn for Accrued Rights of 511 retirees under the CPS, and ₦585m for Gratuities and Death Benefits to 315 pensioners and next-of-kin under the DBS.

The Bureau further explained that for those under the Contributory Pension Scheme, their Accrued Rights will be credited directly into their Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs) with their respective Pension Fund Administrators, while pensioners under the Defined Benefit Scheme will soon be invited for screening and verification before payment.

Governor Uba Sani has consistently maintained that ensuring dignity for retirees is not just a statutory obligation, but a moral responsibility of government.

This approval, the statement concluded, further underscores the administration’s commitment to safeguarding the livelihoods of pensioners, upholding their rights, and strengthening the trust of the Kaduna workforce.

THE THIN BLUE LINE CROSSED: THE URGENT NEED TO TAME POLICE EXCESSES IN KANO STATE

THE THIN BLUE LINE CROSSED: THE URGENT NEED TO TAME POLICE EXCESSES IN KANO STATE

By Aminu Hussaini Sagagi

The events unfolding in Kano State have once again placed Nigeria’s democratic institutions under scrutiny. The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), established as an instrument of law and order, now stands accused of overstepping its constitutional boundaries and undermining the legitimate authority of the Kano State Government.

The growing pattern of disregard for due process and elected leadership which was climaxed by the 1st October Independence Day Parade embarrassing snub and insubordination to the State authority by the Police calls for urgent national reflection and correction.Kano, Nigeria’s most populous State, has long been a political and cultural bellwether. Its governance is central not only to the aspirations of its citizens but also to the stability of the wider federation. Yet, recent episodes reveal an unsettling tension: the police, rather than acting as a neutral enforcer of law, is being perceived as meddling in State affairs – sometimes in ways that reasonably appear to subvert the legitimate powers of the elected Governor and his administration.

The Nigerian Constitution clearly stipulates that the police is to operate under federal command while maintaining respect for state institutions. The delicate balance is meant to ensure both national cohesion and local autonomy. When this balance is distorted, as is increasingly evident in Kano, the consequences are grave. It erodes public trust, emboldens lawlessness and projects the image of a democracy struggling to uphold its own rules.At the heart of this crises is not merely a tussle over law enforcement, it is a test for Nigeria’s democratic maturity.

A police force that prioritizes political instructions over constitutional obligations risks becoming an agent of instability rather than a guardian of peace. For Kano, the repercussions are already palpable: heightened political tension, distrust in public institutions and the growing perception of a State under siege by the very body sworn to protect it.This is not a challenge for Kano alone; it is a national issue. If unchecked, it sets a precedent where the will of the people, expressed through their elected leaders, can be undermined by security forces. Such a trajectory endangers Nigeria’s fragile democracy and threatens the principle of federalism that holds the nation together.

The way forward is clear and simple. First, the Federal Government must reign in the excesses of the Nigerian police and reaffirm their mandate as impartial enforcer of the law, not a political actor. Second, the National Assembly should assert its oversight role to prevent further erosion of democratic norms.

Third, civil society and the media must remain vigilant, ensuring that arbitrary use of force does not become normalized.Kano deserves peace, respect for its elected leadership and adherence to constitutional order. Nigeria deserves no less!The time has come to remind the police that their power is neither above the State, nor beyond the constitution.

Their legitimacy depends not on force, but on fidelity to the rule of law. It is wisely said “When the pot boils over, it burns the cook”This personal opinion piece is contributed by Aminu Hussaini Sagagi, a seasoned lawyer and Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State, AKY on Justice/Constitutional Matters.

Ex-Councillors Laud Tinubu for Appointing Malagi, Say Minister is Projecting Nigeria’s Good Image

Ex-Councillors Laud Tinubu for Appointing Malagi, Say Minister is Projecting Nigeria’s Good Image

Few days after Nigeria celebrated its 65th Independence Anniversary, the National Forum of Ex-Councillors of Nigeria, the umbrella body of former councillors across the 36 states of the federation has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Mohammed Idris Malagi as Minister of Information and National Orientation, describing the choice as timely, visionary, and impactful.

In a statement signed by its National President, Ambassador (Hon.) Auwal Kashim, the association said Nigeria needs a credible voice to serve as an ombudsman and effectively project the country’s image both at home and abroad.

The group noted that since his assumption of office, Malagi has demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda through strategic communication and image-building initiatives.

According to the Ex-Councillors, the Information Minister has been at the forefront of rebranding Nigeria’s narrative, countering misinformation, and showcasing the achievements of the Tinubu administration in economic reforms, infrastructure renewal, and citizens’ empowerment.

They pointed out that Malagi has strengthened public trust in government information management, ensuring that citizens are better informed about policies and reforms. His leadership has also revitalized government-owned media organizations such as the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Voice of Nigeria (VON), and News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), making them more professional, responsive, and people-oriented.

“Mohammed Idris Malagi has not only restored confidence in government communication but has also become a rallying point for national orientation. His efforts in engaging the media, sensitizing the public on government policies, and promoting unity among Nigerians have shown that he is indeed a square peg in a square hole,” the statement partly read.

The association further commended Malagi’s role in strengthening collaborations between government and private media, his nationwide town hall engagements, and his campaigns against fake news and divisive narratives, which they described as vital for national stability.

“As former councillors who have served at the grassroots, we understand the importance of effective communication in governance. Malagi’s appointment is a ray of light, and we are confident that his experience, credibility, and passion will continue to reflect positively on the Tinubu government,” the statement added.

The group concluded that with Malagi’s strategic leadership, Nigeria’s image is gradually being reshaped, fostering not only renewed confidence among citizens but also improving the country’s global perception.

Abuja’s Centrality, Agro-allied potentials is Strategic to Boosting Nigeria’s Non-oil Revenue–Dantsoho

Abuja’s Centrality, Agro-allied potentials is Strategic to Boosting Nigeria’s Non-oil Revenue–Dantsoho

The Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho has said that the centrality of Abuja coupled with its rich agro-allied potentials is germane to strengthening NPA’s commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s efforts to continuously grow non-oil revenue by connecting local value producers in the non-oil value chain to identified international clusters of demand for their goods.

According to him, the position of Abuja as the centre of the country is strategic to the NPA’s renewed trade facilitation focus that places a high premium on port-hinterland connectivity, which Abuja’s centrality accentuates, presents a seamless linkage with the comparative advantages inherent in all regions of the federation that can be harnessed to sustain growth in the volume and value of Nigeria’s exports.

He said as Nigeria’s foremost trade facilitation platform, the authority is always proud to be associated with the noble cause the Abuja International Trade Fair represents, especially seeing that trade remains the most veritable tool for actualizing most of Nigeria’s economic aspirations.

The NPA MD used the opportunity of the occasion of the “NPA Special Day” to invite the entire trading and investing public to explore the tailor-made simplified export processes and other vistas of opportunity present at the Nigerian Ports Authority.”

He said, “As some of us are aware, in our bid to contribute to the strengthening of the domestic economy through the promotion of balance of trade we established the Export Process Terminal (EPTs) to simplify the hitherto burdensome process of exporting Nigerian goods.”

Dr Dantsoho explained that the EPTs were conceptualized to serve as a one-stop-shop for cargo consolidation, stuffing, documentation, packaging, certification and onward shipment through electronic call-up to the Ports in quick turnaround time thus eliminating the duplications and bureaucratic overlaps that previously rendered Nigerian exports uncompetitive in the international marketplace.

He said to facilitate the port-hinterland connectivity and create pathways for Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) to play in the export value chain; the EPTs have been structured to have a seamless handshake with the Domestic Export Warehouses (DEWs) in synergy with the Nigerian Exports Promotion Council (NEPC) as well as the Inland Dry Ports.

“To align with the economic stabilization resolve of the Federal Government and the theme of the year’s fair ‘Sustainability: Consumption, Incentives and Taxation’ we are unifying our various operational channels into a singular transaction gateway known as the Ports Community System (PCS) which lays the groundwork for the implementation of the National Single Window (NSW) which sustainably eliminates all forms of opacity and attendant delays associated with undue human interference,” he stated.

Dr Dantsoho further explained that the NSW is the global best practice for delivering the greatest value with the greatest ease by connecting all stakeholders in the trade value chain for seamless interaction at the push of a button, saying NPA has put measures in place to link value creators in the remotest part of the hinterland with the farthest clusters of demand anywhere on the globe.

He assured every stakeholder that the doors of NPA are always open for partnerships even beyond the trade fair, urging them to visit the NPA’s fully interactive online real time website http://www.nigerianports.gov.ng to access our growth offerings.

ECN DG Congratulates Nigerians On 65th Independence Anniversary…. Says President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative On Solarization Project Unmatched In Nigeria’s History

ECN DG Congratulates Nigerians On 65th Independence Anniversary
…. Says President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative On Solarization Project Unmatched In Nigeria’s History

Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary is a milestone which should be celebrated by all Nigerians especially as the country is under the leadership of a dogged, committed and a true statesman, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR

As Nigerians celebrate her 65th Independence Anniversary, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is deserving of commendation as the Renewed Hope Agenda and the solarization of the country has become one major aspect of his administration that has given joy and hope to Nigerian populace.

This solarization project requires the unflinching support of all Nigerians if we must address the challenges of inadequate power supply in our beloved country, Nigeria.

This forms a part of the goodwill address by the Director General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, ECN, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi to Nigerians as the country celebrates its 65th Independence Day Anniversary.

Dr. Abdullahi restated that with the policy drive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to solarize Nigeria, under the Renewed Hope Initiative, stakeholders in the energy sector across the country need to join the federal government in addressing the challenges of inadequate power supply across the power sector chain.

“The Federal Government, through the Energy Commission of Nigeria ECN has remained overly committed to providing Nigerians with a more sustainable power alternative with its solarization project; which will remove over-dependence on the country’s national grid that has over the years, suffered collapses including attacks by criminal minded persons, vandals and insurgents”, Abdullahi said.

“It is no news that, since attaining its Independence, no other administration in Nigeria has remained as committed as this administration under the leadership of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu in providing an alternative power supply to its citizenry; which is the global best practice for any country seeking genuine development of her people.

“Transitioning to solar energy is not just about cost-cutting; it’s about creating a model for efficiency and shielding Nigerians from rising tariffs.” Dr. Mustapha recently stated.

“Global successes, according to experts reveal that renewable-driven industrial sector is the way to go in addressing power challenges in modern society.

“The Solarization project”, according to Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, “is expected to deliver significant economic and social benefits, including job creation in solar manufacturing, installation, and maintenance, while fostering innovation among Nigerian engineers and entrepreneurs as it will also reduce pressure on the National Grid.”

“This is about planting seeds for renewable systems to electrify rural communities, empower the underserved, and ensure energy equity. The initiative is part of broader reforms across Nigeria’s power value chain, from generation to distribution and history will remember this project; the solarization of Nigeria, as the spark that ignited Nigeria’s energy revolution—a future where clean, affordable power is accessible to all.”

“This is the pathway to uninterrupted, sustainable electricity, and the cost is minimal compared to its transformative legacy and this country cannot afford to lag behind. This is central to our national development goals, particularly under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The DG ECN has, at various fora, restated the total dedication of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to driving the national energy transition through research, innovation, and global collaboration while also underscoring ECN’s role in supporting sustainable energy policies aligned with international climate goals.

With the drive and dedication of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to achieve total solarization in the country. Nigerians will soon give this administration the loudest ovation it deserves.

Happy 65th Independence Anniversary Nigerians.