Lists dozens of ongoing projects in North
By Cross Udo, Abuja
The Presidency has faulted recent claims by a former Kano State governor and 2023 Nigeria National Peoples Party presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, that the Bola Tinubu administration is concentrating federal projects in the South at the expense of the North.
In a detailed post on his verified X handle, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Mr Sunday Dare, described the allegations as “wrong,” stressing that the three geopolitical zones in the North have benefitted from an expansive slate of federal projects under the Tinubu’s administration across sectors such as roads, rail, energy, health, agriculture, and education.
Kwankwaso had on Thursday criticised the Tinubu administration for what he described as neglect of the northern region and the concentration of the nation’s resources on developing the southern part of the country, where the President comes from.
“Let me advise the Federal Government on the distribution of federal resources. From the information available to us, it’s like most of the national budget is now tilting in one direction in this country,” the former Kano governor said during the state’s stakeholders’ dialogue on the 2025 Constitutional Amendment.
However, reacting to the comment, Dare in the post said, “Senator Kwankwaso. You are wrong. North is not neglected. President Tinubu has the North covered.”
He presented a comprehensive list of ongoing and completed projects across the northern geopolitical zones.
Among the key infrastructure efforts cited are major expressways, including the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Expressway, the Sokoto-Zamfara-Katsina Expressway, and sections of the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway. Several roads linking key northern towns, such as Zaria, Funtua, Gusau, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Lafia, and Gaya, are either under construction or undergoing rehabilitation.
In the agricultural sector, Dare highlighted programmes such as the $158.15 million Agriculture Value Chain Programme, targeting nine northern states, the Kolmani Integrated Development Project in Bauchi and Gombe, and the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL), a World Bank–backed environmental initiative.
He also referenced the revitalisation of irrigation schemes, such as the Kano River Project, which was commissioned in 2023 and is now fully operational under the Tinubu administration.
The health sector also featured prominently in the rebuttal, with Dare naming teaching hospitals and diagnostic centres in Zaria, Jos, Katsina, Sokoto, Ilorin, Bauchi, and Yobe, among others.
According to him, more than 1,000 primary health centres across the North are also being reinvigorated as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
On energy and gas infrastructure, the statement underscored the 614km Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) Gas Pipeline, the Gwagwalada Power Plant in the FCT, and the proposed 50MW ABIBA Solar Power Station in Kaduna State.
Major rail projects, such as the 203km Kaduna–Kano rail line and the 285km Kano–Maradi railway, as well as a ₦100 billion allocation for the Kaduna Light Rail System, were also presented as evidence of federal investment in northern transportation.
Also listed were the ongoing rehabilitation of the Abuja Metro Line and the development of inland trade infrastructure through the Trans-Sahara Trade Corridor, which links Calabar through Nasarawa and the North.
Sunday Dare further pointed to national programmes and institutions, such as the reinvigorated National Agency for the Great Green Wall and the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP), both of which are focused on environmental challenges specific to the North.
“These are just samplers — tangible evidence of a government actively developing all regions without bias,” the presidential aide said.
The statement concluded with a pointed reminder that all the listed projects have either commenced or made significant progress within the first two years of President Tinubu’s tenure.
Two million northern Nigerian children on brink of malnutrition disaster, EU warns
By Francis Ajuonuma
The European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Magnot, has raised alarm over the dire state of child malnutrition in Nigeria’s North-West and North-East, warning that two million children urgently need therapeutic food.
Speaking Friday on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, Magnot revealed that the withdrawal of aid by key international donors, including the United States, has created a massive gap in the provision of life-saving nutritional support.
“Right now, 3.5 million Nigerian children are suffering from severe acute malnutrition. Of this number, two million are in the North-East and North-West and require immediate intervention through therapeutic food,” Magnot stated.
He warned that unless urgent international support is mobilised, supplies may run out within weeks, deepening the humanitarian crisis.
Magnot attributed the worsening situation to a mix of climate change, insecurity, and dwindling aid, urging new commitments to prevent a full-blown catastrophe.
Oil firm seeks partnership with media for N’ Delta development
By Cross Udo, Abuja
The oil and gas giant, an indigenous oil company, Maton Engineering Nigeria Limited, has solicited a collaboration with GbaramatuVoice, a Niger Delta-based media outfit based in Warri, for the development of the Niger Delta region.
Consequently, Maton Engineering has paid a strategic courtesy visit to the headquarters of GbaramatuVoice in Ogunu, Warri, Delta State.
The visit aimed to strengthen corporate relations and deepen collaboration on Niger Delta development reporting.
The delegation was led by Mr. Ajosibe Justin Bebenimibo, Government and Public Affairs Manager, alongside DSP Tonlagha Ebikebina (Rtd), Security Manager; Barr. Aga Daniel Olufemi, Legal Manager; and Ms. Oshia Esther, Community Liaison Officer.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Mr. Bebenimibo acknowledged the role of GbaramatuVoice as a vital stakeholder in the region’s development communication landscape.
“GbaramatuVoice is not just a media outfit; you have become a strategic development partner. You have consistently championed the concerns of host communities and given voice to local realities. For us at Maton, this relationship is essential in advancing our shared goals,” he stated.
He expressed appreciation for the media organisation’s consistent coverage of Maton Engineering’s corporate activities, especially in the areas of community engagement, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and safeguarding of oil and gas assets.
“As we look forward to a deeper collaboration, we sincerely thank you for your support in highlighting our project milestones, CSR initiatives, and community interactions. We are optimistic that this synergy will expand in scope and impact,” he added.
Responding on behalf of GbaramatuVoice, the MD/CEO, Mr. Jacob Abai, expressed gratitude to Maton Engineering for the recognition and affirmed the longstanding partnership between both organisations. He described Maton as a company with integrity and a substantial impact in the region.
“Maton has always been a part of GbaramatuVoice’s story. Maton Engineering has remained a reliable player in the region, especially in securing critical infrastructure and engaging meaningfully with host communities,” Abai noted.
“We at GbaramatuVoice are committed to telling the stories that matter—stories of resilience, development, and impact. This visit affirms the importance of strategic partnerships in shaping a better narrative for the Niger Delta.”
Abai assured the media outlet’s visitors of its readiness to support transparency, inclusive reporting, and grassroots engagement through collaborative communication efforts.
Members of the GbaramatuVoice team present during the visit included Mr. Enaibo Asiayei, Managing Editor; Mrs. Vanessa Abai, Chief Operating Officer; and Mr. Samuel Abai, Executive Producer.
FCT chief judge frees four inmates during Kuje visit
By Ibironke Ariyo
The Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Husseini Yusuf, has discharged four inmates on bail at the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kuje.
This is contained in a statement by the spokesman of the Nigeria Correctional Service, FCT Command, Mr Samson Duza, on Friday in Abuja.
The Chief Judge said that the move was part of a jail delivery exercise aimed at promoting quick dispensation of justice and decongesting custodial centres.
He stated that the visit was in line with the judiciary’s commitment to justice and the humane treatment of persons in custody.
“During the exercise, four inmates were discharged on bail, in a move described as part of ongoing efforts to ensure that individuals who do not belong in custodial facilities are released.”
Reacting, the Controller of Corrections, FCT Command, Mr Olatubosun Ajibogun, expressed appreciation to the Chief Judge and his team for their continued commitment to justice delivery and custodial decongestion.
“This is the third time the Chief Judge has visited a custodial centre in the FCT in the last six months. This is a laudable gesture that deserves commendation,” he said.
In a show of partnership, Ajibogun stated that some Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) present at the facility during the exercise covered the bail conditions for the four inmates who were granted bail.
He noted that the gesture highlighted the growing collaboration between the judiciary, correctional service and civil society in addressing overcrowding and improving inmates’ welfare.
He, however, commended the Chief Judge’s initiative, reaffirming the NCoS’s readiness to sustain synergy with the judiciary in enhancing justice delivery and humane custody.
NCoS, NGOs unveil barbing salon, laundry skills centre for inmates in FCT
By Ibironke Ariyo
The FCT Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), in partnership with two Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), have inaugurated a barbing salon and laundry skills centre at the Custodial Model Farm Centre, Dukpa, in Abuja.
Speaking at the event on Friday, the Controller General of Corrections (CGC), Mr Sylvester Nwakuche, expressed gratitude to the NGOs for their resolve to add value to inmates.
A statement by the Command Public Relations Officer, Samson Duza, stated that Nwakuche was represented by Deputy Controller of Corrections, Mr Usman Yahaya.
Nwakuche stated that the landmark event highlighted the shared commitment to expanding rehabilitation opportunities for individuals in custody.
“We appreciate the two NGOs today, Legend Golden Care Foundation and Public Awareness on Rights and Rehabilitation of Vulnerable Persons Initiative, for this great move.
“We are grateful for equipping the inmates with sustainable vocational skills that support successful reintegration into society,” he said.
Nwakuche urged the inmates to utilise the vocational skills to improve their lives during and after incarceration.
He, however, encouraged the NGOs to extend their support to other custodial centres across the country.
Additionally, Kanayo Olisa-Metuh, the Executive Director of the Legend Golden Care Foundation, highlighted the initiative’s purpose.
“Our goal is not only to provide succour but to empower inmates with a source of income, making them independent upon discharge,” Olisa-Metuh said
In his goodwill message, Chinedu Ogah, Chairman of the House Committee on Reformatory Institutions, represented by Donatus Matthew, pledged the 10th Assembly’s commitment to enhancing rehabilitation opportunities for inmates nationwide.
He donated to support the launch and promised further assistance.
In his remarks, the FCT Controller of Corrections, Olatubosun Ajibogun, expressed appreciation for the partnership and support, assuring the partners that the command is committed to the proper use of the donated items.
“This initiative marks a significant milestone in the Nigerian Correctional Service’s efforts to rehabilitate and reintegrate persons in custody into society,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event drew traditional and religious leaders, as well as other key stakeholders in the justice system.
It served as a platform to celebrate the synergy and progress made in promoting human rights, reformation, and rehabilitation of inmates.
Man lures, kills pregnant nurse in Anambra as police launch search
By Cajetan Mmuta, Awka
A man identified as Chiemelie Oborji, popularly known as Obitex, has been declared wanted for allegedly murdering a pregnant nurse under the pretence in Umueri village, Ogbunike, Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State.
According to reports, the suspect tricked the unsuspecting nurse by requesting emergency medical help for his supposedly ailing mother around 1 a.m. However, on arrival at his residence, the nurse was allegedly attacked and gruesomely killed.
Her lifeless body was later discovered in a pit behind the suspect’s compound by local youths, who raised the alarm after retrieving her corpse. A viral video circulating on social media shows angry residents expressing outrage and placing a community-wide alert on the suspect.
Sources within the community claimed that parts of the victim’s body were missing, fueling suspicions of ritual motives, although this has yet to be officially confirmed by authorities.
As of press time, the suspect remains at large. His photograph and details are now being circulated online as the search for him intensifies.
Spokesman of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that he had not received an official briefing on the incident but promised to investigate further.
Tinubu meets GENCOs, approves ₦4tn plan to clear power sector debts
By Cross Udo, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu met with the leadership of Nigeria’s power generation companies (GENCOs) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Friday and pledged firm government action to resolve the overwhelming ₦4 trillion debt burden threatening the stability of the country’s electricity sector.
At the high-level meeting with members of the Association of Power Generation Companies led by Col. Sani Bello (retd), the President appealed for patience from GENCOs as the federal government completes the verification and validation of longstanding claims owed by previous administrations.
The President also gave anticipatory approval for a ₦4 trillion bond programme aimed at addressing the sector’s liquidity shortfall, as disclosed by his Special Adviser on Energy, Olu Verheijen.
“We inherited both assets and liabilities,” Tinubu stated. “But before we clear the debts, there must be transparency, verifiability, and fairness. We are actively engaging audit and legal firms to validate the claims. I appeal for your understanding and time.”
The President called on financial institutions to show restraint and avoid foreclosing on power assets, while assuring GENCOs of the government’s commitment to a stable, market-driven electricity sector.
“Our banking friends must keep their pencils sharp but their erasers handy,” Tinubu added. “Let’s not kill the system we are trying to revive.”
Verheijen explained that the liquidity crisis stems from years of unfunded tariff shortfalls and market gaps, dating back to 2015. She noted that while GENCOs claim ₦4 trillion is owed, only ₦1.8 trillion has been verified so far by the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET), with the remaining amount still under scrutiny.
“While the bond programme has received anticipatory approval, only validated debts will be included in the final issuance,” she said.
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, praised President Tinubu for prioritising the power sector and highlighted key reforms, including the signing of the Electricity Act 2023, Nigeria’s first Integrated National Electricity Policy in 24 years, and an influx of over $2 billion in private capital.
He revealed that sector revenues rose from ₦1 trillion in 2023 to ₦1.7 trillion in 2024, and that the administration has reduced subsidy obligations by over ₦700 billion.
“There has been no national grid collapse in 2025. We’ve achieved a record 120,370MWh of energy delivery and added over 700MW of transmission capacity,” Adelabu said.
Business leaders at the meeting, including Tony Elumelu and Kola Adesina, pleaded for swift intervention, citing the looming threat of asset foreclosures due to unpaid debts.
“We’ve come to you as a last hope,” Elumelu told the President. “This isn’t about failure of GENCOs, but systemic debt. We need power not to finish your reforms, but to enable them.”
Adesina emphasised the importance of unlocking gas supplies to power plants and proposed releasing 800 million cubic feet of gas via NLNG to boost generation.
The meeting was also attended by key administration officials, including the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; the Finance Minister, Wale Edun; the Information Minister, Mohammed Idris; and sector regulators.
Anambra shuts down illegal maternity clinic over quackery, filth
By Cajetan Mmuta, Awka
The Anambra State Government has sealed Madonna Mercy Maternity and Clinic in Uruagu, Nnewi North Local Government Area, for operating illegally and endangering public health.
According to the state’s Ministry of Health, the facility had been operating without a valid license since 2018, with unqualified personnel and under highly unhygienic conditions.
Acting Director of Medical Services, Dr Ugochukwu Chukwulobelu, who led the enforcement exercise, said the move followed an inspection by the Anambra State Health Facility Accreditation and Monitoring Unit, which uncovered multiple violations.
“The clinic has operated without license renewal since 2018 and maintains an environment unfit for maternal care. This is a serious threat to public health,” he stated.
Chukwulobelu emphasised that the government was acting to protect lives and uphold standards, in line with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s health reform agenda, which aims to build a safe, professional, and people-centred healthcare system.
He warned that similar actions would be taken across the state against all substandard or unregistered health facilities.
“We will not tolerate quackery or illegal operations. Any facility found operating below acceptable standards will be shut down,” he declared.
Troops kill terrorists, rescue 170 victims, foil oil theft –DHQ
By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says troops deployed across various theatres of operation have killed scores of terrorists, rescued more than 170 kidnapped victims, and foiled oil theft valued at N241.2 million.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, made this known in a summary of military operations between July 10 and July 22, yesterday in Abuja.
In the North East, Kangye said the troops of Operation HADIN KAI conducted several offensive operations at Goniri, Madaganari, Amuda, Chenene, Tokumbere, and Lambawa-Kalari in Borno and Adamawa States.
He said that 13 terrorists were apprehended and three kidnapped victims rescued, while nine suspected collaborators were also apprehended during intelligence-led operations.
According to him, a large number of terrorists, along with their families, surrendered to troops as pressure mounted across the theatre.
In the North West, Kangye said the troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA conducted clearance operations in Zamfara, Sokoto, Katsina, Kano, and Niger States.
He said that the operations led to the rescue of 106 kidnapped victims in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara.
According to him, an additional 32 victims, including 27 women and five children, were released to a team from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) as part of non-kinetic engagements.
“Six terrorists were arrested during the operations with cache of weapons and ammunition also recovered.
“Security agencies also apprehended a notorious terrorist identified as Muhammadu Hamisu (alias Mamiyo) and five others during joint operations with the Department of State Services (DSS) in Zamfara and Sokoto States.
“Recovered items included arms, illicit drugs, motorcycles, and the sum of N192,300,” he said.
In the North Central, Kangye revealed that troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN neutralised several extremists and arrested six suspects in Plateau and Kaduna States.
He the troops also rescued 17 kidnapped victims and recovered arms, motorcycles, and vehicles.
Kangye added that a gunrunner was nabbed in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State with 350 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, as well as six additional suspects.
“In Benue and Taraba States, as well as parts of Kogi, Nasarawa, and the FCT, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE eliminated several extremists and arrested key suspects involved in criminal activities.
“Among those arrested was a suspected extremist linked to attacks near the Federal University Wukari in Taraba, while an alleged informant to a kidnap kingpin was also apprehended in Kogi.
“A total of 11 suspects were arrested in operations across Kogi, Nasarawa, and the FCT.
“Arms, ammunition, motorcycles, and other logistics were recovered during the raids. Investigations are ongoing,” he added.
In the South-South, Kangye said the troops of Operation DELTA SAFE discovered and dismantled 14 illegal refining sites and intercepted stolen crude oil and other petroleum products.
He said items recovered included 230,400 litres of stolen crude oil, 13,000 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and 2,500 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
Kangye said that troops also destroyed 30 crude oil cooking ovens, 28 dugout pits, 14 drums, seven storage tanks, two boats, eight vehicles and apprehended a total of 237 suspects during the operation.
According to Kangye, these successes reaffirm the Armed Forces’ resolve to safeguard national security and restore stability across troubled regions.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain committed to safeguarding the sovereignty and security of our nation.
“The ongoing military operations have yielded significant progress in neutralising threats and restoring peace in affected regions.
“We appreciate the resilience and cooperation of the Nigerian people, as well as the support from our partners and stakeholders.
“Moving forward, the Armed Forces will continue to enhance their strategies and capabilities to ensure a secure and stable Nigeria for all citizens,” he said. (NAN)
Rivers stands still for Wike, as Uniport honours him with Honorary Doctorate
By Our Correspondent/Portharcourt
In an atmosphere already charged with pride and nostalgia, the University of Port Harcourt will confer its prestigious awards and honours on deserving Nigerians and alumni of the institution, hailed as ‘Unique Uniport’.
One of the distinguished awardees who will be garlanded with ‘Doctor of Science (DSc) in Political Science, Honoris Causa’ is Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike — former Governor of Rivers and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The convocation arena, funded and built under Wike’s watch, will overflow with dignitaries, traditional rulers, students, and citizens, all there to witness a son of the soil returning to the institution that helped shape his rise.
Cheers erupt as the citation is read. Applause rolls in waves. This is no ordinary convocation — it is a coronation of legacy.
A Homecoming Wrapped In Honour
The university, marking its 50th anniversary this year, is using its convocation to bestow honour upon one of its most illustrious alumni. For Wike, this moment is steeped in symbolism. He first studied political science here as a young man, before bagging a law degree in Rivers State University, and today stands as an accomplished statesman receiving the school’s highest honour.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Owunari Georgewill, describes Wike as “a leader whose footprints are etched not only in public office but across the academic and physical landscape of this university.”
Wike, while receiving letter of nomination for the honour, expressed emotion. “UNIPORT gave me not just a degree, but direction. Everything I have become, I trace back to the campus,” he says.
A Rise Rooted In Grassroots Leadership
Wike’s political story began at the grassroots. As Executive Chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area from 1999 to 2007, he earned a reputation for energy, strategic planning, and defending institutions — including the University of Port Harcourt — during periods of political uncertainty.
He later became Chief of Staff to the Rivers State Governor and eventually served as Minister of State for Education, where he facilitated key federal education reforms. Notably, he championed the establishment of the Faculty of Law at UNIPORT — the same faculty he pledged to dedicate in honour of his wife, Justice Eberechi Wike.
Eight Transformational Years In Government House
As Governor of Rivers State between 2015 and 2023, Wike transformed the state’s infrastructure landscape. He commissioned more than a dozen flyovers across Port Harcourt, modernised major hospitals, expanded road networks in rural and urban areas, and built landmark recreational projects like the Port Harcourt Pleasure Park.
He also decentralised tertiary education through new campuses of the Rivers State University
His governance style — decisive, visible, and unapologetically pro-development — earned him admiration far beyond the state’s borders, as well as the moniker: Mr Projects!
Standing For Law And Equity
Wike is not only remembered for building structures. He is also a symbol of constitutional defence. His administration challenged the overreach of federal tax institutions, particularly in the legal battle over Value Added Tax (VAT), arguing that states deserve control over their fiscal destinies.
He also signed into law the Rivers State Prohibition of Female Inheritance Discrimination Bill, effectively protecting women’s rights to property — a milestone in gender equity legislation in the South-South.
A Maverick On The National Stage
Wike’s role in national politics intensified after he contested for the presidential ticket of his party in 2022. He emerged more influential than ever. His calls for internal democracy and party reforms echo across the nation.
When he accepted an appointment in 2023 as Minister of the FCT under President Bola Tinubu’s government, it marked a new chapter — controversial, but consistent with his pragmatic politics.
Bringing Port Harcourt Energy To Abuja
Since becoming FCT Minister, Wike has brought his hallmark governance style to Nigeria’s capital. He clears illegal structures, recovers land from speculators, restores master plans, and revives neglected public infrastructure.
In less than two years, he has repositioned the city with fast-tracked projects, tougher urban planning rules, and renewed public confidence in municipal leadership.
An Alma Mater That Never Forgets
Throughout his career, Wike remained closely tied to the University of Port Harcourt. The university’s iconic convocation arena — commissioned today for official use — stands as a monument to his commitment.
He also donated a fully equipped multimedia centre to the university, supported faculty expansions, and pledged to continue assisting in academic development.
President meets GENCOs, approves N4tn plan to clear power sector debts
By Cross Udo, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu met with the leadership of Nigeria’s power generation companies (GENCOs) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Friday and pledged firm government action to resolve the overwhelming ₦4 trillion debt burden threatening the stability of the country’s electricity sector.
At the high-level meeting with members of the Association of Power Generation Companies led by Col. Sani Bello (retd), the President appealed for patience from GENCOs as the federal government completes the verification and validation of longstanding claims owed by previous administrations.
The President also gave anticipatory approval for a ₦4 trillion bond programme aimed at addressing the sector’s liquidity shortfall, as disclosed by his Special Adviser on Energy, Olu Verheijen.
“We inherited both assets and liabilities,” Tinubu stated. “But before we clear the debts, there must be transparency, verifiability, and fairness. We are actively engaging audit and legal firms to validate the claims. I appeal for your understanding and time.”
The President called on financial institutions to show restraint and avoid foreclosing on power assets, while assuring GENCOs of the government’s commitment to a stable, market-driven electricity sector.
“Our banking friends must keep their pencils sharp but their erasers handy,” Tinubu added. “Let’s not kill the system we are trying to revive.”
Verheijen explained that the liquidity crisis stems from years of unfunded tariff shortfalls and market gaps, dating back to 2015. She noted that while GENCOs claim ₦4 trillion is owed, only ₦1.8 trillion has been verified so far by the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET), with the remaining amount still under scrutiny.
“While the bond programme has received anticipatory approval, only validated debts will be included in the final issuance,” she said.
The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, praised President Tinubu for prioritising the power sector and highlighted key reforms, including the signing of the Electricity Act 2023, Nigeria’s first Integrated National Electricity Policy in 24 years, and an influx of over $2 billion in private capital.
He revealed that sector revenues rose from ₦1 trillion in 2023 to ₦1.7 trillion in 2024, and that the administration has reduced subsidy obligations by over ₦700 billion.
“There has been no national grid collapse in 2025. We’ve achieved a record 120,370MWh of energy delivery and added over 700MW of transmission capacity,” Adelabu said.
Business leaders at the meeting, including Tony Elumelu and Kola Adesina, pleaded for swift intervention, citing the looming threat of asset foreclosures due to unpaid debts.
“We’ve come to you as a last hope,” Elumelu told the President. “This isn’t about failure of GENCOs, but systemic debt. We need power not to finish your reforms, but to enable them.”
Adesina emphasised the importance of unlocking gas supplies to power plants and proposed releasing 800 million cubic feet of gas via NLNG to boost generation.
The meeting was also attended by key administration officials, including the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; the Finance Minister, Wale Edun; the Information Minister, Mohammed Idris; and sector regulators.
