The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has confirmed that 26 passengers and crew members sustained varying degrees of injuries following a train incident along the Abuja–Kaduna rail corridor on Monday.
In a statement issued on Tuesday via his X handle, the NRC Managing Director, Kayode Opeifa, said the incident occurred at about 9:16 a.m. near Asham Station after a loud bang was heard during the journey.
Opeifa disclosed that the Kaduna–Abuja service (KA-2) departed Rigassa Station at 7:15 a.m. and arrived at Jere Station one minute ahead of schedule at 8:52 a.m.
However, the train left Jere at 8:59 a.m., six minutes behind schedule following the coupling of locomotive 2809 to improve operational resilience.
He explained that the incident occurred between kilometre points 50 and 51 as the train approached Asham Station, when the power car and a trailing locomotive collided with one of the coaches, with preliminary reports pointing to a possible fault in the coupling system.
“None of the coaches derailed, and the reason for the possible decoupling is yet to be ascertained,” he said.
The NRC boss added that the affected components — locomotive 2809, power car BVA0002 and passenger coach SP0006 — were subsequently detached to allow the journey to continue.
The train departed the scene at 9:42 a.m., arrived Kubwa at 10:10 a.m., and reached its final destination at Idu Station at 10:39 a.m., recording a total delay of 38 minutes.
Providing further details, Opeifa said a total of 481 persons were on board, including 429 passengers out of 459 booked. Others included 10 crew members, 26 security personnel, six food vendors, eight cleaners and two third-party operators.
“A total of 26 people sustained varying degrees of injuries, including passengers, medical crew, cleaners and security personnel,” he stated.
On service recovery, he noted that operations resumed later in the day, with the Abuja–Kaduna train service commencing the AK1 trip from Idu to Rigassa at 2:48 p.m., against its scheduled 11:00 a.m. departure.
The train arrived Rigassa at 5:33 p.m., with Opeifa and other NRC officials on board, while a return service departed at 6:12 p.m., arriving Kubwa at 8:31 p.m. and Idu at 8:58 p.m.
The NRC assured passengers of its commitment to safety as investigations into the incident continue.
Dangote Seals US$4.2bn Gas Deal with China’s GCL Group to Power Its Ethiopian Fertilizer Megaproject
Dangote Industries Limited (DIL) and GCL Group, China’s leading private energy conglomerate, have formalized a landmark US$4.2 billion, 25‑year natural gas supply agreement to power Dangote Group’s major expansion projects in Ethiopia.
The agreement, signed in Lagos, reinforces one of the most significant China–Africa industrial partnerships to date.
Under the long‑term arrangement, GCL Group will supply stable natural gas to Dangote Group’s upcoming 3‑million‑tonne‑per‑year urea fertilizer production complex in Ethiopia. The plant, valued at US$2.5 billion, is being developed under a 60:40 equity structure between Dangote Group and Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH), respectively, and is scheduled to begin operations in 2029.
Once commissioned, the facility will become East Africa’s largest modern fertilizer production hub, fully meeting Ethiopia’s current urea import demand while supplying neighbouring regional markets. The project is expected to significantly reshape East Africa’s fertilizer landscape, reducing reliance on imports and strengthening agricultural self‑sufficiency.
The natural gas supplied by GCL will be sourced from the Calub Gas Field in Ethiopia’s Ogaden Basin and delivered via a dedicated 108‑kilometre pipeline directly to the Dangote fertilizer complex in Gode, Somali Region. The initiative aligns with Africa’s broader objective of establishing an integrated energy‑to‑food value chain, leveraging local resources to drive industrial autonomy.
Describing the significance of the collaboration, Aliko Dangote, President/Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, said: “Africa’s energy industry cannot continue indefinitely exporting raw materials while importing finished products. We must pursue a new path of highly autonomous development. Through seamless integration and strategic cooperation with GCL, we will achieve an efficient closed‑loop value chain from natural gas extraction to fertilizer production, taking a crucial step toward enabling Africa to secure greater autonomy over its food security.”
Chairman of GCL Group, Mr. Zhu Gongshan, also reaffirmed the company’s confidence in the partnership, noting that the agreement was made possible through the facilitation and support of the Ethiopian government:
“This cooperation will enable both sides to expand new frontiers in Ethiopia’s energy, chemical, and food security sectors while transitioning from a ‘business going global’ model toward a mutually beneficial ecosystem‑based framework. Leveraging GCL’s integrated oil and gas operations in Ethiopia and Dangote Group’s extensive industrial footprint across Africa, the partnership will significantly enhance our service capabilities and market reach across the continent.”
The strategic collaboration marks a historic step in Africa–China industrial cooperation and is expected to catalyse long‑term economic transformation across East Africa.
Looking ahead, GCL will continue to focus on its core industrial strategy of integrated gas–power–computing development, leveraging Chinese technologies and solutions in synergy with Africa’s development needs, and working together to write a new chapter of mutually beneficial cooperation between China and Africa on this promising land. Both parties noted that the successful conclusion of this cooperation would not have been possible without the strong leadership of the Government of Ethiopia and the active support of the relevant authorities.
Over the past 20 years since its establishment in Ethiopia, GCL Group has progressed from oil and gas exploration and development to the construction of the country’s first natural gas liquefaction project, and from advancing the integrated “gas–power–computing” development model to supporting the country’s pursuit of greater energy self-reliance. Each step has involved sustained and substantive investment, deeply integrating the company’s activities into the trajectory of Ethiopia’s economic and social development and continuously earning the high level of trust of senior government leadership.
Industry analysts note that this project conveys multiple strategic values. Once operational, it will not only help Ethiopia achieve full self-sufficiency in its fertilizer industry but will also unlock the industrial potential of the Somali Region, create thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities, and drive the high-quality development of regional infrastructure and supporting service industries. At the same time, the clean chemical production pathway based on natural gas as a feedstock aligns with the global trend toward low-carbon transition and provides a model for green development for energy-intensive industries across Africa. This cooperation also establishes a new paradigm for China–Africa collaboration.
By integrating upstream resource development, midstream pipeline transportation, and downstream industrial transformation, it forms a complete closed-loop “gas–fertilizer” industrial chain. In doing so, it deeply combines the technological strengths of Chinese enterprises with Africa’s indigenous resource endowments.
The project will serve as a landmark initiative under the Belt and Road Initiative, demonstrating the synergy between energy development and agricultural advancement, and helping Ethiopia and the broader African region move toward sustainable development characterized by energy independence, industrial revitalization, and food self-sufficiency.
Dangote Group, founded by Africa’s richest person, Aliko Dangote, operates across a wide range of sectors including cement, food processing, energy, and chemicals. Known as the Father of African Industry. Mr. Dangote’s decision to select GCL Group of China as a strategic partner fully demonstrates the strong recognition by Africa’s leading enterprises of GCL’s technological capabilities and localized operational expertise.
As Senator Gbenga Daniel marks his 70th birthday, Nigerians reflect on his legacy as a businessman, former Ogun governor and senator known for humanitarian service and inclusive development
Gbenga Daniel at 70: From Business Mogul to Political Leader Still Shaping Ogun’s Future
As Gbenga Daniel turns 70, tributes continue to pour in for a man whose life has been defined by enterprise, public service, faith and an unwavering commitment to the development of people.
Widely as OGD, the former governor of Ogun State and current senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District stands today as one of the most recognisable figures in Nigeria’s political and socio-economic landscape.
For many who have followed his journey, the milestone is not merely a celebration of age, but a reflection on decades of leadership, compassion and dedication to nation-building. From the boardroom to the corridors of power, Daniel’s story is one of resilience, vision and a deep-seated passion for empowering others.
Born into a family that valued discipline and community service, Daniel’s early life instilled in him the principles that would later shape his approach to leadership.
Long before he ventured into politics, he had already carved a name for himself in the world of business, building successful enterprises and creating opportunities for others through innovation and entrepreneurship. His rise in the private sector laid the foundation for the administrative competence that would later define his political career.
Beyond business and politics, Daniel has remained deeply rooted in his Christian faith. Known among close associates for his love of music and evangelism, he has consistently supported church choirs and religious initiatives, often describing music as a powerful tool for spiritual expression and unity. His belief in faith as a guiding force in leadership has been a constant theme throughout his public life.
“Faith teaches humility and service,” Daniel once said in a reflective moment during a church event. “Leadership is not about power; it is about stewardship and using whatever influence you have to uplift others.”
That philosophy would become evident when he assumed office as governor of Ogun State in 2003. During his two terms in office, Daniel pursued policies that focused on infrastructure development, economic growth and human capacity building. His administration introduced initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities for young people, strengthening institutions and improving the welfare of citizens across the state.
Even after leaving the Government House in Abeokuta, Daniel’s commitment to service did not wane. His return to public office as a senator representing Ogun East has further reaffirmed his belief that leadership must remain people-centered. At the National Assembly, he has continued to champion development projects and initiatives that support education, youth empowerment and community growth.
Senator Gbenga Daniel
For Daniel, development has always meant more than physical infrastructure. It is about investing in people, nurturing talent and building a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Those close to him often speak about his inclusive leadership style and his belief that governance should never leave anyone behind.
“True development must touch every life,” Daniel once remarked while addressing community leaders in Ogun East. “When people are empowered with knowledge, skills and opportunities, they become partners in progress.”
This philosophy has also shaped his humanitarian activities over the years. Through various initiatives, Daniel has supported scholarships, vocational training programmes and community development projects aimed at lifting people out of poverty and equipping them with skills for self-reliance. Many beneficiaries of these programmes see him not only as a political leader but also as a mentor and benefactor who believes deeply in human potential.
Those who know Daniel personally also point to his strong commitment to family life.
Gbenga Daniel and family
Despite the demands of politics and public service, he has remained devoted to his family, often describing the home as the foundation upon which every meaningful achievement rests. His ability to balance public responsibilities with family values has earned him admiration from supporters and associates alike.
As he celebrates his 70th birthday, Daniel’s political journey remains far from over. Across Ogun East, supporters continue to express confidence in his leadership and have already begun calling for his return to the Senate in the 2027 elections. For many constituents, his experience, network and commitment to development remain valuable assets for the district.
Political observers say the enduring appeal of Daniel lies in his reputation as a bridge-builder who believes strongly in collaboration and collective progress. His ability to connect with people across political, social and generational divides has remained one of his defining strengths.
Reflecting on his decades in public life, Daniel once captured the essence of his philosophy in a simple but powerful statement, “Public service is a lifelong commitment. It is about leaving every community better than you met it and ensuring that the next generation has greater opportunities than the last.”
At 70, that commitment appears as strong as ever. For the people of Ogun East and many across Nigeria who have witnessed his journey, the celebration of OGD’s milestone birthday is not only a tribute to a life of achievement, but also a reminder that the call to service, compassion and leadership can endure across generations. Read More
Zenith Bank Plc has announced the opening of a new branch in Manchester, United Kingdom, marking another significant milestone in the bank’s international growth
Zenith Bank To Open Manchester Branch To Strengthen UK–Africa Trade Links
Zenith Bank Plc has announced the opening of a new branch in Manchester, United Kingdom, marking another significant milestone in the bank’s international growth and its commitment to strengthening financial connections between Africa and global markets.
The official opening ceremony, scheduled to hold on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, is expected to attract government officials from Nigeria and the United Kingdom, regulators, investors, customers, and business leaders from both countries, underscoring the growing economic ties and investment opportunities between the two markets.
The new Manchester branch will complement Zenith Bank’s existing operations in the United Kingdom and serve as a strategic hub for supporting businesses engaged in international trade and investment. Through the branch, the bank will provide corporate banking, trade finance, treasury and related financial services to clients operating across the United Kingdom, Europe and Africa.
Speaking ahead of the launch, the Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, said: “The opening of our Manchester branch represents another important step in Zenith Bank’s growth as a leading African financial institution connecting businesses and markets across continents. Manchester is one of the United Kingdom’s most dynamic commercial centres, and our presence here will further strengthen financial connections between businesses in the UK and opportunities across Africa’s rapidly expanding markets.”
Founded in 1990 by its Founder and Chairman, Jim Ovia, CFR, Zenith Bank has grown into one of Africa’s most respected banking institutions, boasting a robust capital base and a remarkable history of year-on-year profitability. Built on a strong foundation of people, technology and service, the Bank has consistently delivered innovative financial solutions while maintaining a disciplined approach to growth and risk management. The impressive performance of the Bank has consistently earned it excellent ratings, recognition and endorsement from local and international agencies and institutions.
Headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, Zenith Bank operates over 500 branches and business offices across the 36 States of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The Bank currently operates subsidiaries in several African countries including Ghana, Sierra Leone, Gambia, and Cote d’Ivoire, while maintaining a presence in major international financial centres including the United Kingdom, France, UAE and China. In recent years, Zenith Bank has continued to expand its international network as part of its strategy to support global trade and investment flows involving Africa.
Manchester, widely regarded as one of the United Kingdom’s most vibrant economic centres, hosts a diverse base of businesses across sectors such as manufacturing, engineering, logistics, technology and consumer goods. The city’s strong commercial ecosystem and international outlook align closely with Zenith Bank’s expertise in corporate banking, structured finance and trade finance.
The Manchester branch will work closely with the Bank’s London operations and its broader international network to support clients seeking to expand across markets and unlock new opportunities in both the United Kingdom and Africa.
With the opening of the Manchester branch, Zenith Bank continues to advance its vision of building a truly global African banking institution that connects businesses, facilitates trade and investment, and creates stronger economic bridges between Africa and the world. Read More
Across Europe’s elite leagues, breaking into a first team as a teenager is a major milestone—but some prodigies have gone even further, making their senior league debuts at astonishingly young ages.
Clubs in the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, and Ligue 1 increasingly trust academy talents, with many early debutants later rising to global prominence. Here’s a look at ten of the youngest players to make their mark on Europe’s biggest domestic stages:
Lamine Yamal – 15 years, 290 days Club: FC Barcelona | League: La Liga Became Barcelona’s youngest La Liga player in April 2023 under Xavi.
Youssoufa Moukoko – 16 years, 1 day Club: Borussia Dortmund | League: Bundesliga Set the Bundesliga record as the youngest player ever, debuting a day after his 16th birthday.
Ethan Nwaneri – 15 years, 181 days Club: Arsenal F.C. | League: Premier League Made history as the youngest Premier League player when he appeared against Brentford in 2022.
Pietro Pellegri – 15 years, 280 days Club: Genoa CFC | League: Serie A Matched a Serie A record for youngest debutant at Genoa.
Mathys Tel – 17 years, 126 days Club: Bayern Munich | League: Bundesliga Quickly earned minutes, becoming one of Bayern’s youngest Bundesliga debutants.
Eduardo Camavinga – 16 years, 280 days Club: Stade Rennais F.C. | League: Ligue 1 Made his senior debut for Rennes before a meteoric rise to Real Madrid.
Martin Ødegaard – 16 years, 157 days Club: Real Madrid | League: La Liga Debuted as one of Europe’s most promising teenage midfielders.
Gianluigi Donnarumma – 16 years, 242 days Club: AC Milan | League: Serie A Began a record-breaking career as Italy’s youngest number one goalkeeper.
Warren Zaïre‑Emery – 16 years, 151 days Club: Paris Saint‑Germain F.C. | League: Ligue 1 Became PSG’s youngest ever Ligue 1 player. Jude Bellingham – 17 years, 77 days Club: Borussia Dortmund | League: Bundesliga Established himself as a regular starter after moving from Birmingham City.
These debuts highlight Europe’s growing faith in youth development, as clubs continue to trust teenagers with senior responsibilities—many of whom are already on paths to global stardom.
Air India and its budget subsidiary Air India Express have announced the cancellation of all flights to and from Dubai following escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The airline confirmed the decision hours after reports emerged of a drone strike near Dubai International Airport that triggered a fire on Monday.
According to the airline, the cancellations were necessary after authorities temporarily suspended all flight operations at the airport due to the incident.
Air India stated that affected passengers would be provided flexible travel options.
“Passengers can either reschedule their flights for another date or cancel their booking and get a full refund,” the airline said.
Despite the disruption in Dubai, the airline clarified that ad hoc operations by Air India Express to other airports in the United Arab Emirates would continue.
Flights to and from Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah will operate as previously scheduled.
The development comes amid rising security concerns in the Middle East, which have begun to affect international travel and aviation operations in the region.
Boluwatife Fayose has clarified that his decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) was a personal choice driven by his admiration for Biodun Oyebanji.
Boluwatife, the son of former Ekiti State governor Ayodele Fayose, made the remark while addressing APC leaders and members in Irepodun/Ifelodun State Constituency II after emerging as the party’s consensus candidate for the State House of Assembly seat.
He was formally presented to party leaders in Iworoko Ekiti by APC officials from Afao Ward following the party’s decision to zone the Assembly ticket for the constituency to the ward.
Speaking at the meeting, Boluwatife thanked party leaders and members for their support and acceptance.
He also conveyed greetings from his father, who is not a member of the APC.
The APC candidate emphasised that his decision to join the ruling party was independent and not influenced by his father’s political affiliation.
“It is because of the good character of Governor Oyebanji and his love for the people that attracted me to the APC,” he said. According to him, the immediate focus of the party remains the forthcoming governorship election in the state.
“The most important thing on my mind is the forthcoming governorship election—that is our focus,” he added.
Boluwatife also pledged to work closely with constituents and collaborate with the current lawmaker in the constituency to ensure the party’s electoral success.
“I will make sure everybody is carried along and ensure nobody is left behind,” he said.
He stressed that the June 20 governorship election is a key priority for the party, noting that its success would determine future political developments in the state.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged the Federal Government to take urgent steps to shield Nigerians from the rising cost of petrol and worsening economic hardship.
In a statement issued on Sunday, NLC President Joe Ajaero said the recent spike in petrol prices—now selling between N1,170 and N1,300 per litre—has placed unbearable pressure on workers and ordinary citizens.
According to the labour union, the increase has significantly worsened the cost-of-living crisis across the country.
The NLC linked the latest surge in fuel prices to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
The union said the crisis has triggered instability in the global oil market, with direct consequences for Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
Describing the development as an attack on the welfare of citizens, the NLC said Nigerian workers are being forced to bear the burden of a crisis they did not create.
Citing projections by the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), the labour body said Nigeria could earn about N30 trillion in oil windfall due to the ongoing Middle East tensions.
The union urged the government to channel any additional revenue toward easing the economic hardship faced by citizens.
“The about N30 trillion oil windfall expected to accrue to Nigeria as a result of the current Middle East war must not grow wings but should be invested in the Nigerian people,” the NLC stated.
Among its key demands, the NLC called for the immediate introduction of a wage award and cost-of-living allowance for workers.
It also urged the government to expand cash transfer programmes for vulnerable Nigerians, provide tax relief for low-income earners, and set a clear timeline for the full operationalisation of the country’s public refineries.
The union renewed its call for the revival of Nigeria’s refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna, stressing that a functional public refining system is essential to stabilise fuel prices.
It noted that the privately owned Dangote Refinery had also adjusted prices in response to global oil market volatility.
According to the NLC, continued dependence on international market pricing exposes Nigeria’s economy to global conflicts and speculation.
“This crisis has brutally exposed the fragility of Nigeria’s downstream sector. As long as we remain dependent on a market-driven pricing structure tied to global vicissitudes, we will remain hostages to wars and speculators,” the statement said.
The labour union warned that higher fuel prices have already increased transportation costs and worsened food inflation nationwide.
“The cost of PMS and AGO has made transportation a noose around workers’ necks. Food inflation is galloping, and meagre wages are being swallowed by this induced scarcity,” the NLC said.
It stressed the need for urgent dialogue between the government and organised labour to address the worsening economic situation.
“We are not a statistic; we are the engine of this nation. When the engine overheats, the entire vehicle crashes.
“We demand action. We demand justice. We demand survival,” the union added.
The Supreme Court of Nigeria has affirmed the powers of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) to dispose of the Lagos Continental Hotel, bringing an end to a long-running legal dispute over the property. The apex court delivered its judgment on February 20, 2026, in favour of AMCON after years of litigation involving Polaris Bank Limited, AMCON, 11 Hospitality Plc, and Milan Industries Limited.
Origin of the Dispute The case stemmed from a credit facility granted by the defunct Skye Bank Plc—now Polaris Bank—to Milan Industries Limited for the construction of the Lagos Continental Hotel located in Victoria Island, Lagos. However, the loan later became non-performing, prompting AMCON to acquire the Eligible Bank Asset from Polaris Bank in September 2018 as part of its mandate to stabilise Nigeria’s banking sector.
Before the loan acquisition, the bank had appointed Kunle Ogunba as Receiver/Manager over Milan Industries to recover the outstanding debt.
In that capacity, Ogunba took possession of the hotel based on the registered Deed of Legal Mortgage securing the loan and his Deed of Appointment.
After acquiring the loan, AMCON subsequently validated Ogunba’s appointment and proceeded to dispose of the Lagos Continental Hotel to 11 Hospitality Plc for N22 billion.
Legal Battle Through Multiple Courts Following the sale, Milan Industries Limited filed a suit at the Federal High Court challenging AMCON’s decision to dispose of the asset. The Federal High Court dismissed the case, but Milan Industries later appealed the decision at the Court of Appeal, which ruled in its favour.
The verdict was subsequently challenged at the Supreme Court by AMCON.
Supreme Court Clarifies AMCON’s Powers In its final ruling, the Supreme Court overturned the decision of the Court of Appeal and upheld AMCON’s authority under the AMCON Act. The apex court held that the AMCON Act is a special legislation enacted by the National Assembly to address unique challenges within Nigeria’s financial system.
It also reaffirmed provisions of Section 60 of the law, which exempts AMCON from paying stamp duties and confirms its rights as a mortgagee regardless of the upstamping of documents.
According to the court, AMCON retains a continuing security interest in mortgaged assets as long as the outstanding debt remains unpaid.
Hotel Sale Upheld With the ruling, the Supreme Court validated the sale of the Lagos Continental Hotel and reinforced AMCON’s authority to dispose of mortgaged assets in the course of recovering non-performing loans. The development effectively ends the legal dispute over the property, bringing the matter to a final close.
Minister of Works Dave Umahi has declared that the Southeast is now occupying its rightful place in the country under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Umahi said the President has effectively addressed long-standing concerns about the marginalisation of the region by ensuring greater inclusion of the Southeast in national development.
The minister made the remarks at the weekend while inspecting ongoing federal infrastructure projects in Ebonyi State.
Key Federal Projects Underway in the Region Among the projects inspected were the Onueke section of the 465-kilometre Trans-Sahara Super Highway, where a 25-span bridge measuring about 700 metres is currently under construction. Other projects include the Onueke–Afikpo highway, Afikpo–Ndibe Beach road, the Ebonyi–Cross River Beach Bridge, and the Amasiri–Okigwe highway.
Umahi said the projects reflect the Tinubu administration’s commitment to infrastructure development and economic growth in the Southeast.
Call for Support Ahead of Elections The minister urged residents of the region to support the President’s re-election bid, noting that the administration had done “so much” for the Southeast. “Mr. President has done so much for the Southeast and I want you people to broadcast what he is doing for us,” Umahi said.
He also called on citizens to highlight the ongoing development efforts across the region, particularly on social media.
“Let our people that are not here who are on social media know that the tide has changed and we are now counted and we are now at the right position in the affairs of the nation,” he added.
The minister further urged people of the Southeast to set aside grievances and acknowledge the federal government’s efforts in the region.
“No more bitterness and no more verminous statements but appreciation so that we can get more just like other regions that appreciate him and get more,” he said.
Umahi stressed that continued support and appreciation of the administration’s efforts would encourage more federal projects and development initiatives in the Southeast.
