The Nigerian electricity sector is witnessing an unprecedented assertion of power by state regulators, who are invoking new legislative provisions to set electricity tariffs they deem fair and affordable. This wave started notably with Enugu’s electricity regulator slashing Band A tariffs by nearly 24%, prompting a vigorous backlash from power distributors and generators. Energy commissioners across Nigeria’s 36 states have voiced their intention to negotiate tariffs locally, emphasizing the need to balance cost recovery with consumer protection. The Electricity Act 2023 provides a legal backbone for such sub-national regulatory authority, a shift from the traditional centralized approach. Prince Eka Williams,…
Author: Podium Reporters
New information from 2014 has resurfaced shedding light on the controversial means through which Peter Obi—former Governor of Anambra State—allegedly secured his appointment as Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation. Reports from Sahara Reporters and corroborated sources detail that Obi resorted to distributing cars and cash gifts as political inducements to key lawmakers, aiming to ease his confirmation by the Senate. Following the completion of his second term as Governor in March 2014, Obi, a prominent leader of the All Peoples Grand Alliance (APGA), emerged as a favored candidate for the Aviation Minister position under then-President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, tasked with replacing…
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited recently marked the completion of its CEO Bashir Bayo Ojulari’s first 100 days with a detailed progress report emphasizing milestones in operational efficiency, financial growth, and sustainability efforts. Ojulari assumed leadership on April 2, 2025, consequent to presidential appointments intending a fresh direction for NNPC. The company’s official briefing celebrated numerous accomplishments across upstream collaborations, infrastructure upgrades, governance reforms, and environmental initiatives. The report described the initial term as embodying “steadfast commitment and forward movement,” with highlights ranging from increased oil and gas production to full pipeline functionality—crucial for revenue assurance. Cash call payments…
Tuesday’s announcement by Gambian health authorities has marked the country’s first recognized case of mpox, a development highlighting the virus’s expanding footprint across West Africa. Detection occurred through routine monitoring systems, with the confirmed case identified last Friday. The Ministry of Health stated that the presence of a single infected individual where the virus was previously absent qualifies as an outbreak necessitating urgent action. Measures are now underway to trace contacts, locate additional cases, and engage communities to stem transmission. Mpox, related to smallpox, is a viral disease that was first identified in humans in the Democratic Republic of Congo…
The U.S. government has recently updated its travel advisory for Nigeria, urging citizens to carefully reconsider any trips there given the country’s current challenges with terrorism, rampant kidnapping, civil unrest, and substandard health services. Disclosed through the US Mission in Nigeria’s official communication, the alert describes each state as carrying a “significant security risk,” with 18 states flagged for their particularly dangerous conditions. Terrorism and kidnapping dominate the northern states of Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa, while kidnapping is prevalent in others like Bauchi, Kano, and Zamfara. Southern states including Bayelsa and Delta are troubled by armed gangs and violent crime.…
In a crucial National Executive Committee meeting slated for Thursday in Abuja, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is set to determine the future of its national leadership following the withdrawal of former chairman Abdullahi Ganduje due to health concerns. However, observers interpret the resignation as a strategic shift within party ranks ahead of the 2027 general elections. Ali Dalori, who stepped in as acting chairman, remains a favorite among several factions to hold the position temporarily until an electing convention can be organized. Party sources, however, highlight a growing push for other notable figures, especially from the North-Central zone, including…
In what could be described as a dramatic football evening, the Super Falcons of Nigeria edged South Africa 2-1 in the dying minutes of their Women’s Africa Cup of Nations semi-final encounter on Tuesday. The first half ended in Nigeria’s favour with a successful penalty by Rasheedat Ajibade after a fierce contest. Before that, South Africa suffered a major setback when star striker Hildah Magaia left the pitch injured in the 26th minute. The Banyana Banyana bounced back after the break, converting their own penalty through Linda Motlhalo to tie the game. However, Nigeria would not be denied, as Michelle…
In a sharp rebuke delivered at the commissioning of the New Edo Line Transport Service in Benin City, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, condemned the former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, for serving food at a recent public event. Wike described Obi’s action as a “show of shame” and an attempt to deceive Nigerians by creating an illusion of humility. Addressing a crowd in the Edo State capital on Tuesday, Wike questioned, “How long will you be serving food as a presidential candidate? As a president, you will be carrying food and serving? And…
Security tensions flared in Abuja on Tuesday when Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, still under suspension, was prevented by security personnel from entering the National Assembly building. The lawmaker, who represents Kogi Central, arrived alongside figures such as activist Aisha Yesufu, Mama P, and Randy, with numerous supporters in tow. Aisha Yesufu took a confrontational approach, questioning gate security about the rationale behind the exclusion. “National Assembly is meant to be for everyone. Why are you stopping us? We are not abiding doesn’t mean we are cowards,” she remarked, her words echoing through chants from supporters calling for access. The growing tension…
In a stunning political development, the Osun State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has officially adopted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as its sole candidate for the 2027 presidential election. Key Decisions from PDP Leadership Caucus Following an extensive leadership caucus meeting held at the Government House, Osogbo, PDP leaders issued a communique detailing the outcomes of their deliberations: Endorsement of President Tinubu: The PDP leaders unanimously recognized Osun State as the ancestral home of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and declared him “the son of Osun State.” As a result, the party formally adopted and endorsed the president for…