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Dangote Refinery Slashes Ex-Depot Price by ₦40, as More Marketers Join Partnership Deal

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July 1, 2025

Dangote Refinery Slashes Ex-Depot Price by ₦40, as More Marketers Join Partnership Deal

With assurance of steady supply of petroleum products, more independent marketers have joined the growing list of distributors retailing Dangote Refinery’s high-quality petroleum products across the country.

New marketers signed on the partnership deal with Dangote Refinery just as the Refinery management announced a reduction in its ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, from N880 to N840 per litre. The new pricing took effect on 30 June 2025.

Dangote Group’s spokesperson, Mr. Anthony Chiejina, confirmed the price adjustment in Lagos, stating: “PMS price has been reduced from N880 to N840 per litre effective 30th June.”

The previous increase to N880 per litre had followed global crude oil market volatility, particularly during the 12-day geopolitical crisis in the middle east, which pushed crude oil prices to nearly $80 per barrel.

The refinery’s existing partners—MRS, Heyden, Ardova (AP), Hyde, Optima, and Techno Oil—are expected to reflect the new pricing at their retail outlets.

Additionally, several new marketing companies have joined Dangote’s distribution network. These include TotalEnergies, Garima Petroleum, Sunbeth Energies, Sobaz Nigeria Ltd., Virgin Forest Energy, Sixxco Oil Ltd., N.U. Synergy Ltd., and Soroman Nigeria Ltd. Others on the growing list are Jezco Oil Nigeria Ltd., Jengre, Cocean, Kifayat, Triumph Golden, Sifem Global, Riquest, and Mamu Oil, among others.

The Dangote Refinery, the largest single-train refinery in the world, continues to expand its domestic fuel distribution footprint, offering competitive pricing and improving access to refined products across Nigeria.

The refinery, recently, announced that it has invested over N720 billion to implement its initiative of deploying 4,000 Compressed Natural Gas-powered trucks for the nationwide distribution of petroleum products, saying it is expected to save Nigerians over N1.7 trillion annually.

This step, the management, will see the refinery absorb over N1.07 trillion annually in fuel distribution costs. The initiative is also poised to significantly benefit over 42 million Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by reducing energy costs and enhancing profitability, the mega refinery said.

The initiative, which eliminates transportation costs for fuel marketers and large-scale consumers, is expected to help reduce pump prices and inflation.

From August 15, Dangote will begin the direct delivery of petrol and diesel to filling stations, industrial facilities, and other high-volume consumers, the company said earlier. Read More

Dapo Abiodun’s Rudderless Leadership Reduces Governance to Photo Ops and Empty Rhetoric

Opinion

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July 1, 2025

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By Wale Onifade

Dapo Abiodun’s Rudderless Leadership Reduces Governance to Photo Ops and Empty Rhetoric

Ogun State is sinking under the weight of indecision, cosmetic politics, and a governor whose legacy is quickly becoming synonymous with grandstanding and gross underperformance. Governor Dapo Abiodun, once touted as a private sector success story, has in the last five years dragged the state into a pit of frustrating stagnation and unfulfilled promises.

From Abeokuta to Ijebuland, the tale is the same: nothing gets completed. Instead, the official language of his administration — delivered with practiced ease from the governor’s office or one of his overly eager aides — has become a worn-out litany of “We are planning,” “We are initiating,” “We are working on it,” “We received partners,” “We signed an MoU.”

Yet, there are no results to show. Just empty declarations and ceremonial flag-offs wrapped in flowery press releases and Instagram photos.

What should be a season of results is being wasted on trial-and-error governance and serial publicity stunts. The governor has turned Ogun State into a theatre of “Awa la wa nbe” politics — where showing up for photo ops replaces actual work.

Instead of building schools, industries, or hospitals, the government has mastered the art of snapping smiling photos with ‘partners’ who disappear as quickly as they arrived. Ogun residents have now grown tired of the endless “MoU Signings” and laughably vague “stakeholder engagement” statements that never materialize into real impact.

If there’s any physical evidence of Governor Abiodun’s failure, look no further than the nightmare that is the Sagamu–Ijebu Ode and Ijebu Ode–Ibadan roads. Though these are federal roads, they have been a recurring death trap and economic bottleneck for the Ijebu people for over four years — completely neglected under his watch.

A state governor with foresight could have rehabilitated these roads and leveraged federal refund mechanisms later. After all, it’s a strategy other proactive governors have employed — using performance as pressure. But not Governor Dapo Abiodun. He’d rather stage photo ops with Mr. President than advocate meaningfully for Ogun State’s development.

Even more disturbing is how the governor chases federal attention with a level of desperation unbecoming of his office. At a time when serious leaders are focused on tackling insecurity and boosting the economy, Abiodun was turned back from a presidential overseas trip after crashing the event without invitation. Sources confirmed he was politely dismissed on the orders of the President himself, who had grown weary of his embarrassing antics.

Beyond his obsession with Abuja, Governor Abiodun is becoming a permanent fixture on Lagos’ social circuit, attending every birthday, burial, or chieftaincy party that manages to trend on social media. Lagos socialites don’t even need to invite him formally anymore. Once the scent of celebration hits the air, Abiodun’s 25-vehicle convoy is already en route, sirens blaring.

It is this embarrassing lack of focus that earned him the satirical nickname, “Governor Oyibiriri”, from a well-known Remo-born political analyst based abroad — a nickname that’s fast gaining ground among frustrated Ogun indigenes.

What the People Deserve vs What They Got

Ogun State, with its deep intellectual and industrial roots, deserves much more than a governor who treats governance like a red carpet affair. The people deserve roads that function, schools that teach, hospitals that heal, and industries that hire — not half-baked excuses and recycled slogans.

Instead, Dapo Abiodun’s administration has become a tragic case study in how style without substance can cripple the hopes of millions.

As 2027 draws near, the question on the lips of Ogun residents is no longer whether this administration has failed — it is how the state will recover from the years wasted under a governor who mistook photo ops for performance. Read More

“We Gave It Our Best” – 2Face Opens Up on Split from Annie, Urges Fans Not to Stay in Unhappy Marriages

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July 1, 2025

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“We Gave It Our Best” – 2Face Opens Up on Split from Annie, Urges Fans Not to Stay in Unhappy Marriages

“So for me, if it’s obvious that people cannot work things out then I don’t think anybody should force themselves to be together”

“We Gave It Our Best” – 2Face Opens Up on Split from Annie, Urges Fans Not to Stay in Unhappy Marriages

Nigerian music legend Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Face, has finally addressed his highly publicized separation from longtime partner and wife, Annie, saying the two of them gave their best to save the marriage.

Speaking in a candid interview on the 234 Mzansi Podcast hosted by Nedu, 2Face explained that while he and Annie shared deep love and history, the relationship had simply run its course.

“I think both of us gave it our best. And why we’re not together today is not something I’m going to talk about publicly,” 2Face said.

Despite the split, the iconic singer spoke warmly of Annie, describing her as “amazing” and saying they had reached a mutual understanding to part ways.

“Me and her have our own understanding. She’s amazing, it just wasn’t working no more. Something wey una get before wey no dey again, that’s why I said I won’t talk about it here,” he added.

2Face went on to caution against staying in a relationship just to please others or uphold societal expectations, pointing out that doing so often leads to personal unhappiness.

“I think you should try to fix your marriage but if it’s beyond that, I don’t think anybody should force anything. Only people in the marriage know exactly what they’re feeling,” he said.

“It’s always good not to torture yourself, and not to allow society or people to dictate your feelings. Because this thing called ‘living in bondage’ is real and many people have gone to their grave very sad people.”

“So for me, if it’s obvious that people cannot work things out then I don’t think anybody should force themselves to be together,” he concluded.

The revelation has triggered a wave of mixed reactions online. While many applauded the African Queen hitmaker for his honesty and maturity, others were less forgiving—accusing him of dodging accountability and romanticizing what they described as toxic behavior.

A user @divine_neny wrote:

“He can’t even say or place a finger on what she did to him. Annie loved him too much.”

@t_e_s_s_y123 added:

“Oh, she’s amazing now? Nice that you’re saying the truth about your ex. Annie’s crime was loving someone else more than herself.”

@rejioce.johnson.12 chimed in with:

“Even if Annie’s at fault, we are happy she’s no longer in that marriage. She deserves love, not a serial cheat who made her look like the problem.”

Meanwhile, @agentvic_ defended 2Face’s position:

“He spoke well and decided not to give them the regular negativity. Everything is not by force. It didn’t work out, and that’s it.”

Others commented on the frequency of his interviews, with @belleglamchic asking,

“Why is he jumping from one interview to another?”

@favsgold_declutter wrapped it up emotionally with:

“May we not love who will leave us halfway in life, Amen.”

Recall that 2Face recently made headlines after confirming a new relationship with Edo lawmaker Natasha Osawaru. This came shortly after announcing his divorce earlier in the year—further igniting social media reactions, especially in light of his earlier controversial comment that “no man can be with just one woman.”

As fans continue to digest the revelations, 2Face’s message stands clear: love should be nurtured—but never forced. Read More

Otunba Gbenga Daniel to Host Over 800 Choristers in Choir Festival, Champions Youth Morality Through Music

Lukman Omikunle

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July 1, 2025

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Otunba Gbenga Daniel to Host Over 800 Choristers in Choir Festival, Champions Youth Morality Through Music

Through this Choir Festival, Otunba Daniel is living up to his title—not just as a leader in name, but in deed, leading with heart, humility, and harmony

Otunba Gbenga Daniel to Host Over 800 Choristers in Choir Festival, Champions Youth Morality Through Music

…announces staggering ₦30 million prize pool

In what is shaping up to be the largest choral gathering in Nigeria in recent times, former Ogun State Governor and Asiwaju of Remo Christians, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, is set to host over 800 choristers at the 2025 edition of The Asiwaju of Remo Christians Choir Festival.

The spiritually themed contest—widely hailed as a beacon of moral and youth development—will take place on Sunday, July 6, at the architecturally renowned Abraham Tabernacle in Sagamu, Ogun State.

Now in its fourth edition, the annual festival continues to grow in ambition and impact, drawing not only massive local participation but also interest from across Africa. This year’s event boasts a significant leap in scope, with nine competing choirs of 33 members each and 25 observing choirs of 21 members each, selected through rigorous auditions.

While interests were received from South Africa, Zambia, and other African countries, logistical limitations and sponsorship gaps prevented international participation. Organisers, however, said that efforts are underway to ensure broader international inclusion in future editions.

“This is more than just a choir contest,” said Dr. Opeyemi Asaolu, a member of the festival’s governing board. “It’s a national movement—a bold effort to inspire youth excellence, rebuild morality, and promote unity through music. We’re not just singing; we’re shaping the future.”

Dr. Asaolu further announced a staggering ₦30 million prize pool, triple the amount from the previous year. The breakdown includes:

₦5 million for the overall winner
₦3.5 million for the second-place choir
₦2.5 million for the third
Additional prizes ranging from ₦1 million to ₦500,000 for choirs up to the ninth position

In line with Otunba Daniel’s ethos of encouragement and inclusivity, each of the 21 observing choirs will receive ₦500,000.

Legacy and Leadership by Example

The Abraham Tabernacle venue—an imposing ecumenical edifice built by Daniel in honour of his late father—is not just a stage for the competition but a symbol of legacy. Daniel personally supervised venue upgrades, including a redesigned altar and expanded seating arrangements to accommodate over 1,000 expected guests.

“I started out as a choir boy and pianist,” Daniel said during a press briefing yesterday—the first ever held for the festival. “That early training in discipline and harmony shaped my life. Today, I’m using that foundation to inspire the next generation.”

Now, as the second holder of the revered title Asiwaju of Remo Christians—succeeding the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo—Daniel views the festival as both a calling and a responsibility.

“The world has changed. Once discouraged careers like music, sports, and acting are now global goldmines. Through this festival, we’re guiding youth toward purpose, discipline, and morality in a creative and relevant way,” Daniel stated.

He added, “Music tourism has vast potential. Our best choirs can represent Nigeria internationally, and we’re creating platforms that make that dream possible.”

Corporate Backing and Media Innovation

This year, the festival has attracted more sponsors and partners, with a specially curated cocktail event planned for sponsors on the eve of the competition. Visibility for sponsors is also being enhanced, as the event features cutting-edge camera setups—including robotic cameras—for broad media coverage. A central broadcasting facility is also in place to make footage accessible post-event.

“We’re aiming for longevity and scale,” added Dr. Asaolu. “This vision requires consistent support from both public and private sectors. We invite more sponsors to be part of this transformative journey.”

Other notable members of the festival’s governing board include Ms. Lilian Imoni, Dr. Adeola Badru, and Mr. Seun Owoaje.

As preparations enter the final stretch, the excitement is palpable across Ogun State and beyond. For many, the festival is more than a music competition—it is a call to collective awakening, a celebration of talent, and a revival of values often lost in modern society.

Through this initiative, Otunba Gbenga Daniel is living up to his title—not just as a leader in name, but in deed: leading with heart, humility, and harmony.

Dangote’s initiative will reduce production costs, ease inflationary pressures, and stimulate economic growth – Energy experts

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July 1, 2025

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Dangote’s initiative will reduce production costs, ease inflationary pressures, and stimulate economic growth – Energy experts

The new initiative of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery has continued to draw accolades from energy experts in the country, with some describing it as the best that has happened to the sector since Independence.

The Chief Executive of Financial Derivatives Company, Bismarck Rewane, said the company’s free distribution initiative will reduce production costs, ease inflationary pressures, and stimulate economic growth. He also dismissed concerns about the refinery becoming a monopoly, arguing that inefficiencies in the sector have been systemic and long-standing. He added that the scheme would help curb the parasitic role traditionally played by middlemen.

Rewane dismissed concerns about the refinery becoming a monopoly, arguing that inefficiencies in the sector have been systemic and long-standing. He added that the scheme would help curb the parasitic role traditionally played by middlemen.

“What Dangote is doing achieves two key objectives: delivering products across the entire country at a uniform price by eliminating bridging costs and significantly reducing logistics expenses through the use of CNG-powered trucks to reach every corner of the nation.

“In economic terms, middlemen—who typically do not invest—are often viewed as parasitic, extracting margins simply for distributing goods. Dangote is bypassing this layer by directly handling distribution and, notably, providing credit facilities to the retail end of the business,” he said.

Energy expert and co-founder of Dairy Hills, Kelvin Emmanuel, said Dangote’s decision to absorb logistics costs marks a turning point that could finally allow Nigerians to enjoy the benefits of local refining.

Energy analyst Ibukun Phillips described the move as “revolutionary”, suggesting it could reshape Nigeria’s energy sector by improving affordability and access, particularly in rural communities.

“Rural consumers, who typically pay more despite earning less, stand to benefit immensely. This could also revive abandoned filling stations and promote equitable distribution,” she explained.

In the same vein, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) also commended the development, calling it a timely resolution to longstanding challenges in the downstream sector.

IPMAN’s National Publicity Secretary, Chinedu Ukadike, stated that the new model would significantly reduce logistical burdens for independent marketers by delivering more affordable fuel directly to filling stations.

“Our pipelines have been non-functional for years, yet nothing has been done to revive the infrastructure linking the country’s 21 depots. We’ve had to rely on expensive transport from coastal depots,” Ukadike said. “Dangote’s intervention lifts a huge burden off the shoulders of independent marketers.”

It would be recalled that Dangote Petroleum Refinery recently invested over N720 billion to implement its landmark initiative of deploying 4,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered trucks for the nationwide distribution of petroleum products, which is expected to save Nigerians over N1.7 trillion annually.

This bold step will see the privately-owned refinery absorb over N1.07 trillion annually in fuel distribution costs. The initiative is also poised to significantly benefit over 42 million Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by reducing energy costs and enhancing profitability.

The initiative, which eliminates transportation costs for fuel marketers and large-scale consumers, is expected to help reduce pump prices and inflation. From 15 August, Dangote will begin the direct delivery of petrol and diesel to filling stations, industrial facilities, and other high-volume consumers.

According to a statement from the refinery, it aims to meet Nigeria’s daily consumption of 65 million litres of refined petroleum products. This includes 45 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 15 million litres of diesel, and 5 million litres of aviation fuel.

With the average logistics cost estimated at N45 per liter, the refinery will incur over N1.07 Trillion annually in free distribution expenses.

Dangote Group is investing N720 billion in the acquisition of 4,000 CNG-powered trucks as well as the establishment of nationwide CNG ‘mother and daughter’ stations, among other infrastructure to implement the free distribution initiative.

This strategic programme forms part of Dangote’s broader commitment to eliminating logistics bottlenecks, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting environmental sustainability, and supporting Nigeria’s economic development. The company noted that lower fuel distribution costs will help reduce production costs, ease inflationary pressures, and stimulate economic growth.

The initiative is also expected to resuscitate dormant filling stations, fostering job creation in the process. Over 15,000 direct jobs are projected to be created across the logistics chain, including drivers, station managers, and attendants at the CNG stations.

The refinery also emphasised that this programme would help curb cross-border smuggling of petroleum products and support a more efficient and environmentally friendly distribution system. Read

Tony Elumelu Hails Afreximbank as a Beacon of Africapitalism, Urges African-Led Development

Business

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July 1, 2025

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Tony Elumelu Hails Afreximbank as a Beacon of Africapitalism, Urges African-Led Development

Renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, Tony Elumelu, has hailed the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) as a powerful symbol of Africapitalism and proof that African institutions can deliver transformational change when driven by purpose and collaboration.

Speaking during the 32nd anniversary celebration of Afreximbank, held at the 5,000-capacity Transcorp Event Centre in Abuja, Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings, emphasized the bank’s legacy in shaping Africa’s trade, financing, and development trajectory.

Africapitalism, a philosophy championed by Elumelu, positions the private sector—and particularly African entrepreneurs—as key drivers of the continent’s social and economic transformation.

“The success and legacy of Afreximbank demonstrate the power of Africapitalism in transforming the African continent,” Elumelu said, describing the anniversary as a milestone in African excellence and self-reliance.

The event also honored the impact of Afreximbank’s outgoing President, Professor Benedict Oramah.

“I was there to support Afrexim – and salute the impact and legacy of retiring President Professor Benedict Oramah,” Elumelu stated.

During a fireside chat titled “Decades of Delivering on a Shared Aspiration: The Transformational Collaboration between Afreximbank and African Multinational Corporations and Banks,” Elumelu shared insights on how partnerships between financial institutions and responsible African businesses have led to monumental successes.

“As an investor active in 20 African countries, I have seen firsthand what happens when institutions like Afreximbank and responsible African businesses work together. The results are powerful and transformational,” he said.

One notable example, he said, was the $2.5 billion acquisition of strategic oil assets from Shell, which led to the creation of Heirs Energies, Africa’s largest integrated energy platform.

“With their backing, our acquisition in the energy sector, through Heirs Energies, did not just empower us as investors, it empowered Nigeria’s oil industry, creating jobs, and strengthening national capacity.”

Elumelu described the landmark deal as “Africapitalism in action”, demonstrating how African capital and institutions can jointly power the continent’s industrialisation and economic advancement.

He also stressed the urgent need to fix fundamental infrastructure, especially in the power sector, arguing that electricity remains the bedrock for broader development.

“We cannot develop Africa without reliable electricity. Power is the foundation of everything,” he said.
“While the world is racing toward AI and the Fourth Industrial Revolution, we are held back by the basics – electricity, broadband access, and digital infrastructure. We must fix these foundational issues if we are serious about development.”

Elumelu highlighted the importance of capital, trust, and responsibility, stating that entrepreneurs must uphold integrity and accountability when supported by financial institutions.

“When financial institutions take a chance on you, you must honour your obligations, repay your loans, and deliver on your promise, not just to your shareholders, but to your community.”

He advocated for the empowerment of development banks like Afreximbank to increase their support for African entrepreneurs, while also calling on those entrepreneurs to operate with discipline, excellence, and integrity.

Citing the work of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, he revealed that over 24,000 young African entrepreneurs across all 54 countries have been empowered, leading to the creation of over 400,000 jobs.

“Why do we do this? Because we believe that poverty anywhere is a threat to all of us everywhere.”

Elumelu also emphasized the need to intentionally include Africa’s youth and women in economic development.

“We must not climb and take the ladder away. We must deliberately and consistently create access and open doors, so that the next generation can thrive.”

In his closing remarks, Elumelu praised Professor Oramah for his transformative leadership at Afreximbank.

“None of this would be possible without visionary African leadership,” he said.
“He has shown that African-led institutions can deliver global impact, and his legacy will continue to inspire.”

He concluded by affirming that the story of Afreximbank reflects what is possible when African vision, capital, and collaboration come together with shared purpose and long-term commitment. Read More

PDP NEC Affirms Sam Anyanwu as National Secretary

Politics

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June 30, 2025

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PDP NEC Affirms Sam Anyanwu as National Secretary

The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially affirmed Senator Samuel Anyanwu as the party’s National Secretary, bringing clarity to recent speculation surrounding the position.

Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Umar Damagum, made the announcement on Monday in Abuja following a crucial NEC meeting held at the party’s national secretariat.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, Damagum said the affirmation of Anyanwu was among the key resolutions adopted during the session, reiterating that NEC remains the highest decision-making body of the party.

“Let it be clear that the NEC has affirmed Senator Samuel Anyanwu as the National Secretary of our great party,” Damagum declared.

The endorsement is seen as a move to consolidate internal cohesion ahead of upcoming political activities and reinforce the party’s leadership structure.

Tinubu Courts Caribbean Allies: Seeks Visa Waivers, Scholarships as Nigeria Seals Ties with Saint Lucia, OECS Bloc

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June 30, 2025

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Tinubu Courts Caribbean Allies: Seeks Visa Waivers, Scholarships as Nigeria Seals Ties with Saint Lucia, OECS Bloc

In a landmark diplomatic milestone, Nigeria has officially established formal relations with Saint Lucia and deepened engagement with the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), marking a significant step in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s push for Afro-Caribbean unity and global Black solidarity.

Speaking Monday at a historic joint sitting of Saint Lucia’s Senate and House of Assembly, held at the William Jefferson Clinton Ballroom in Sandals Grande, President Tinubu outlined a bold vision for strategic cooperation with OECS nations including Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, St Kitts and Nevis, Montserrat, Saint Martin, and Saint Vincent.

Describing the move as a “symbolic bridge” connecting Africa and the Caribbean, Tinubu announced a series of initiatives to strengthen institutional, cultural, and economic ties.

“We are not just opening a diplomatic channel — we are reawakening blood ties, shared struggles, and common aspirations,” he declared.

Among the key proposals was the establishment of a Joint Commission or Political Consultation Agreement, aimed at fostering structured dialogue and regular diplomatic engagement. Tinubu also announced that Nigeria would grant visa waivers to diplomatic and official passport holders from OECS member states, encouraging reciprocal action.

“I respectfully urge a reciprocal gesture to enable smoother movement of officials and foster closer institutional cooperation,” Tinubu said.

In a nod to education and people-to-people ties, President Tinubu offered full scholarships to OECS students, while also pledging to extend Nigeria’s Technical Aid Corps (TAC) programme to the region. The initiative will deploy Nigerian professionals in fields such as education, healthcare, and engineering to support development efforts in the Caribbean.

The Nigerian leader advocated for deeper collaboration in maritime education and scientific research, especially in tackling shared challenges in health and climate change.

“Beyond maritime education, both regions should explore joint scientific research initiatives, particularly addressing common health challenges,” he noted.

Acknowledging the existential threat climate change poses to small island nations, Tinubu called for robust cooperation on climate adaptation, disaster risk management, and sustainable agriculture.

“We can deepen our understanding and enhance our collective resilience by sharing research findings on climate impacts, adaptation strategies, and disaster risk management,” he said.

President Tinubu grounded his speech in Afrocentric foreign policy ideals, stressing the historic and emotional significance of the diplomatic outreach.

“My presence here today symbolises Nigeria’s renewed commitment to re-engage with these enduring ties, recognising their strategic and emotional significance,” he stated.
“Nigeria, as the most populous nation on the African continent and the foremost Black nation globally, has long stood at the vanguard of advocacy for the dignity and advancement of Black people worldwide.”

On trade, Tinubu invited OECS countries to tap into Nigeria’s vast market, highlighting opportunities in agriculture, manufacturing, and services.

“Together, we can leverage our respective strengths to attract investment, create jobs, and foster joint ventures that benefit both our peoples,” he said.

He also referenced his administration’s ongoing economic reforms, aimed at unlocking Nigeria’s potential and positioning it as a key player on the global stage.

Concluding his address, Tinubu evoked the Pan-African legacy of Marcus Garvey and an African proverb to drive home his call for unity and cooperation among peoples of African descent.

“Get organised and you will compel the world to respect you,” he quoted Garvey.
“And as the African proverb teaches us: ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’ Let us journey together, united in purpose and fortified by our common heritage.”

The event drew over 300 attendees, including OECS Heads of Government, Saint Lucian lawmakers, diplomats, and members of the Nigerian diaspora in the Caribbean. Read More

Lagos Island APC Kicks Off Local Government Election Campaign

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June 29, 2025

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Lagos Island APC Kicks Off Local Government Election Campaign

▪︎ Chairmanship Candidate, Hon. Taiwo Oyekan Unveils 7-Point Agenda, Pledges Progressive Governance

The All Progressives Congress(APC) Chapter of Lagos Island Local Government has kicked off Political Campaign for the 2025 Lagos council elections in Isale-Eko community.

In his address, the Director-General of the Campaign Committee, Alh. Shakiru Giwa called on party members and residents to support and vote for all the candidates of the party at the July 12 council election.

Addressing the gathering, the Lagos State Deputy Chairman of the APC, Hon. Moshood Mayegun urged the electorate to vote enmass for the party’s Chairmanship Candidate, Hon. Taiwo Oyekan.

He lauded the Chairmanship Aspirants for upholding unity of purpose and rallying behind Hon. Oyekan following his emergence.

“Though APC will win the local government election but we must work harder to record wide margin”, Hon. Mayegun said.

Presenting the official APC flag to the chairmanship candidate, a former Lagos State House of Assembly lawmaker, Hon. Oyinlomo Danmole tasked Hon. Oyekan on good governance.

The APC flags were also presented to the Ten(10) Councillorship Candidates.

On her part, Alh. Balikis Eshilokun solicited vote for Hon. Oyekan.

The APC LGA chairman, Alh. Ganiu Sadiq charged party members to intensify door-to-door campaign and educate eligible voters ahead of the poll.

Speaking, chairman of the Lagos NURTW, Alh. Mustapha Adekunle expressed his readiness to mobilize the union’s members for the APC candidates. He appealed to aggrieved party members to unite and support Hon. Oyekan.

The Arewa and Igbo communities vowed to cast their votes for the Chairmanship and Councillorship Candidates of the APC.

Hon. Oyekan unveiled his 7-point agenda to the residents. He charged the youths to embrace his candidacy as he is one of them.
He also reiterated his commitment to progressive governance.

Among leaders present are Hon. Omolara Oyekan-Olumegbon, Hon. Adetoyese Olusi, Mr. Rasheed Giwa, Alh. Dosu Fashola, Alhaja Risikat Junaid , Party Chairmen and members of the Party. Read More

Relief as Dangote Foundation’s Hunger Intervention Sparks Joy Across Ibese, Itori, Ijebu-Igbo

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June 29, 2025

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Relief as Dangote Foundation’s Hunger Intervention Sparks Joy Across Ibese, Itori, Ijebu-Igbo

…Describe the rice Distribution Another Operation Feed the Nation

Over 30 Host Communities to Dangote Cement Ibese Plant as well as those in Itori in Yewa North, Ewekoro local government aeras of Ogun State respectively were thrown into excitement as the Aliko Dangote Foundation, (ADF) extended its National Food Intervention programme to the people distributing over 3000 bags of rice to the less privileged in the communities.

It was the same at the host communities to Dangote Granite and Mines in Ijebu-Igbo as the beneficiaries turned up in large numbers at the Orimolusi of Ijebu-Igbo palace and that of Sopenlukale of Oke-Sopen where the bags of rice were distributed to the deserving populace.

Aboro of Ibese, Oba Rotimi Mulero and his counterpart in Itori, the Olu of Itori, Oba Abdulfatai Akamo were full of praises to the Chairman of the Foundation, Aliko Dangote for his magnanimity in ensuring food security in the host communities and thereby reducing hunger among their people.

While presenting bags of rice to some of the beneficiaries in Ibese, Oba Mulero explained to the people that the initiative is focused on reaching out to the aged, people living with disabilities and other vulnerable groups facing hardship in the face of current biting economic climate.

He stated that beyond the rice distribution there has existed a longstanding collaboration between the host communities and the ADF on one hand and the Dangote Cement on another hand, especially in the areas of empowerments and capacity building. He also acknowledged ADF’s consistent corporate social responsibility efforts, particularly towards host communities.

Said he: “We all were here last year, we are also here this year, for distribution of food items. Let me on behalf of the community which I am the prescribing authority over, appreciate the management team of Aliko Dangote Foundation for this gesture. We would continue to pray that the organization continue to flourish. Last year, I called this exercise” Operation Feed the Nation” which we have witnessed some years ago in the country. We are seeing Alhaji Aliko Dangote reintroducing the programme with this yearly rice distribution exercise. We are proud of Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Dangote Group and Aliko Dangote Foundation.

“With this gesture, God will continue to strengthen the managements of Dangote Foundation, Dangote Cements especially Dangote Cement, Ibese plant. You can see that our people have turned out in their thousands ,waiting to get the item, when we started sharing, you saw the smiles in the faces”.

Earlier in his remarks, representative of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, Victor Edero said the Foundation’s food inflation intervention was designed to complement the government’s food security efforts toward distribution of food items to all the 774 local government areas across the country .

He explained that the economic downturn has made it increasingly difficult for many Nigerians to afford basic staples like rice, making such support crucial, adding that the foundation gives priorities to the host communities, especially Ibese that’s hosting cement factory and other host communities.

Mr Ejiro reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to capture its target audiences like the vulnerable, downtrodden and aged, while urging for fair and equitable distribution to ensure all targeted beneficiaries get their share.

In their appreciations, some of the beneficiaries lauded the initiative, stating it was a clear example of how public-private partnerships can be harnessed to ease people’s burdens and promote inclusive development.

Earlier, the Olu itori thanked Alhaji Dangote for cunting Itori worthy of benefiting from the food intervention programme, given that the Cement Plant in the area is still under construction and his people will give all necessary cooperation to ensure the plant takes off smoothly.

He described the construction of the plant as a fulfilment of long time promise made to his people that he would ensure a notable company is established in his domain through which the people could be gainfully employed and the economy of the community turned around

It would be recalled that the Aliko Dangote Foundation under its National Food Intervention Programme had last week distributed Forty (40,000) thousand 10kg bags of rice across the twenty (20) local government areas of Ogun State.