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Kaduna State Extends Free CNG Bus Transit Scheme

Oluwasola Akintonde
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Kaduna State Extends Free CNG Bus Transit Scheme

The Kaduna State Government has announced that its Free Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mass Transit Scheme will continue indefinitely after an assessment showed the programme has delivered substantial benefits to residents.

A statement released by the state’s Commissioner of Information, Malam Ahmed Maiyaki, Governor Uba Sani approved the extension following a review of performance data from July to November 2025.

During that period, the fleet of 100 CNG‑powered buses operating from 200 designated stops transported more than 1.4 million passengers, saving households an estimated ₦1.39 billion in transport costs.

“The numbers represent school fees paid, food on the table, small businesses staying afloat, and thousands of our citizens moving daily without the burden of transport costs,” Maiyaki said.

The scheme currently serves over 18,000 riders each day, making it one of the state’s most impactful social interventions.

Governor Sani, who witnessed commuters’ gratitude during recent field assessments, said the relief on citizens’ faces reinforced his commitment to reducing the cost of living.

“For this reason, I have approved the indefinite continuation of the Free CNG Mass Transit Scheme,” Sani said. “Leadership must always reduce the burdens of ordinary citizens.” he stated.

The administration pledged to expand safe, affordable and eco‑friendly transportation as part of its broader human‑capital development agenda.

 

Olusola Akintonde

Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Energy Cooperation

Hauwa Abubakar Anaja
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Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Global Energy Cooperation

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has assured the newly appointed Secretary-General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), Dr. Philip Mshelbila, of Nigeria’s steadfast support as he assumes leadership of the Forum.

He gave the assurance while receiving Dr. Mshelbila in Abuja, Nigeria.

Dr. Mshelbila expressed deep appreciation to the Minister and the Ministry for their longstanding support and collaboration throughout his career in the energy sector.

He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening coordination between Nigeria and the GECF, noting that enhanced engagement will be essential to advance global gas dialogue, cooperation, and strategic energy diplomacy.

Ambassador Tuggar congratulated Dr. Mshelbila on his appointment which he said was coming at a pivotal time for the global energy landscape.

He praised Dr. Mshelbila’s distinguished record, highlighting how his private-sector leadership and international experience will add significant value to the Forum’s work.

Both parties reiterated their readiness to deepen collaboration in the gas sector, promote Nigeria’s interests within the GECF, and sustain cooperative efforts that bolster global energy security, economic growth, and shared prosperity.

 

 

 

Group Backs Nasarawa Assembly Suspension of Lafia LG Chairman 

Bilkisu Halilu Pai
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Group Backs Nasarawa Assembly Suspension of Lafia LG Chairman 

A group under the aegis of concerned stakeholders of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lafia Local Government Area (LGA), has supported the Nasarawa State Assembly’s decision to suspend the Chairman of Lafia, Mohammad Haliru-Arabo, for three months.

The Spokesperson of the group, Muhammad Habibu stated this at a press conference in Lafia, the state capital.

He explained that the assembly, in line with its constitutional role, examined the allegations against the embattled chairman and found that he clearly breached the law in the purported suspension of the speaker of the Lafia Legislative Arm, Mohammed Shu’abu-Madaki.

“Section 128 of the 1999 constitution, as amended, empowers the House of Assembly to investigate any matter relating to the execution of state laws, administration of public offices and conduct of public officials.

“Local Government Chairmen fall directly under this constitutional oversight; therefore, the assembly has the right to ask the council chairman to step aside to interfere with the ongoing investigation,” he explained.

The spokesperson appreciated Governor Abdullahi Sule and the House of Assembly for the way they are handling the affairs of the state and urged detractors to allow the government to continue to provide good governance and security to the people of the state.

The suspension the Lafia Local Government Chairman, Mohammad Haliru-Arabo, as announced by Speaker Danladi Jatau, is reportedly over Haliru-Arabo’s alleged involvement in the crisis rocking the council’s legislative arm.

The Assembly has directed the Deputy Chairman Uba Arikya to oversee the council’s affairs pending the outcome of the investigation.

However, APC chieftain, Abubakar Usman-Sandaji, has criticised the suspension, describing it as deeply flawed, politically charged, and dangerous to democratic governance.

Usman-Sandaji argued that the assembly acted hastily without providing credible evidence to justify the suspension.

The crisis has led to the police taking over the Lafia Local Government secretariat, with some protesters arrested for demonstrating against the suspension.

EIB to Boost Lending for EU Defence Projects in 2026

Victoria Ibanga
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EIB to Boost Lending for EU Defence Projects in 2026

The European Investment Bank, the EU’s lending arm, has promised to boost lending for defence projects to 4.5 billion euros ($5.28 billion) next year from 3.5 billion in 2025, and might revise the number even higher if there is more demand, EIB President Nadia Calvino announced.

Speaking on the sidelines of an EU finance ministers’ meeting in Brussels, Calvino said the expected increase to 4.5 billion euros was based on projects that were already in the pipeline

“We will be focusing especially on military mobility and critical infrastructures, Eastern border and anti-drone systems,” Calvino told Newsmen

“We will do at least 4.5 billion. This reflects the current pipeline, what we’re working on.

More orders could come next year as well. Every year we have a review process where we can adjust amounts if necessary,” she said.

The money will come out of the bank’s total lending in 2026 that is planned at 100 billion euros, the same as in 2025.

More than half of that lending next year will go to projects that help fight climate change.

The bank will also lend from its 70 billion-euro, three-year scheme to boost the EU’s innovation sector of tech companies that want to grow in Europe but lack the needed capital, as the EU makes an effort to retain the most promising firms.

Calvino said the bank’s programme for innovative tech firms in Europe has already produced nine companies that have grown to more than 1 billion euros in valuation.

Because such firms are rare, they are called unicorns in venture capital terminology.

So far only six EU countries have contributed extra money to the EIB’s programme called the European Tech Champions Initiative to help innovative firms scale up in Europe.

But Calvino said that since the scheme has proven successful, many more EU governments are interested in joining.

“We’re working to scale this up, so in the first part of next year, in early 2026 … we intend to come forward with the second phase of this European Tech Champions Initiative,” she said.

Reuters/Victoria Ibanga

Niger State Governor Swears In Commissioners, Others

Mosunmola Ore
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Niger State Governor Swears In Commissioners, Others

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, has sworn in 30 commissioners, 25 elected council chairmen and their vice chairmen, as well as board members, urging them to play key roles in achieving his administration’s New Niger Agenda.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Government House, Minna.

The Chief Judge of Niger State, Justice Halima Ibrahim Abdulmalik, was represented by Justice Maimuna Abubakar of High Court 6, who administered the oath of office and allegiance.

Governor Bago said the appointees were carefully selected based on their proven track records.

He expressed confidence that they would give their best to move the state forward. He encouraged them to learn from past experiences and work towards building a sustainable, prosperous, and fair Niger State.

The Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, urged the new office holders to be committed to their responsibilities, noting that their performance was crucial to the success of the New Niger Agenda.

He added that a strategic retreat had been organised to align them with the administration’s collective vision and set clear expectations.

READ ALSO: Niger State Electoral Commission Ready for Local Government Polls

The newly sworn-in board members are from the Niger State Universal Basic Education Board, the Secondary Education Board, and the Law Reform Commission.

Some of the appointees expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve and pledged to work diligently for the full realisation of the New Niger Agenda.

 

TCN Begins Rehabilitation of Afam Transmission Lines

Oluwasola Akintonde
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TCN Begins Rehabilitation of Afam Transmission Lines

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has officially commenced the rehabilitation of two major transmission lines within its Port Harcourt Region, marking a significant step toward strengthening power infrastructure and improving electricity supply reliability in the South-South region.

At a formal handover ceremony on December 11, 2025, contractors were deployed to begin reconductoring works on the 38.6km Afam IPP–Port Harcourt and the 20.8km Afam IPP–Elelenwo 132kV double-circuit transmission lines.

These lines form critical links between the Afam Power Plants and key substations that feed power into the national grid.

Speaking during the ceremony, the General Manager, Transmission Services, Ali Sharifai, emphasized that the 12-month rehabilitation project had become necessary due to the ageing condition of the existing conductors.

Read Also: Electricity Challenges: President Tinubu Meets Power Generation Companies

Anambra Issues Interim Licence to FirstPower Electricity Company

According to him, over the years, wear and reduced efficiency have contributed to declining wheeling capacity, making the upgrade essential for optimal power transfer and grid stability.

Sharifai noted that the reconductoring initiative aligns with TCN’s broader strategic plan to modernize its transmission network, eliminate constraints, and support Nigeria’s growing electricity demand.

Improved Efficiency 

Also addressing stakeholders, the General Manager, Transmission, Port Harcourt Region, Akpa Emmanuel, highlighted the importance of the two lines to national grid performance.

Emmanuel said the Afam IPP–Port Harcourt and Afam IPP–Elelenwo lines play a central role in evacuating bulk power generated from the Afam Power Plants—one of the country’s key generation hubs.

He further explained that once completed, the upgraded lines will deliver higher transmission capacity, improved efficiency, and significantly enhanced reliability of power supply across the Port Harcourt axis and neighboring States affirming TCN’s commitment to ensuring that the project is executed to standard and delivered within schedule.

“The rehabilitation works are expected to not only strengthen the grid but also reduce technical losses, minimize downtime, and support ongoing efforts to stabilize electricity supply nationwide”

“With construction now underway, stakeholders and electricity consumers alike look forward to the transformative impact the improved infrastructure will bring to the region’s power delivery landscape” He added.

 

Olusola Akintonde

Group Inaugurates Southeast Officials For President Tinubu’s Re-election

Mosunmola Ore
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Group Inaugurates Southeast Officials For President Tinubu’s Re-election

The National Leadership of Grassroot Advocacy for Tinubu 2027 GAT, has inaugurated the officials of Southeast Nigeria Who will help to coordinate and champion the actions that will lead to the re-election of Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu.

The National Coordinator of GAT, Professor Ochugudu Ipuele during the inauguration which took place at Remeritona Hotel in Abakaliki the Ebonyi State Capital disclosed that this inauguration would help to foster the movement in all the states in the Southeastern part of Nigeria.

“Our presence in the South-East is not just symbolic; it marks our belief that every zone, every community, and every citizen is a stakeholder in the democratic process and in the national conversation about progress, development, stability and the continuity of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027“. He noted.

READ ALSO: Deputy Speaker Urges Southeast to Align with President Tinubu’s Agenda

The Board Chairperson, at the Inauguration of the South-East Zonal Structure, Mrs Hanmo Akume, said;
“As we gather here, it is also important to acknowledge leaders across the country whose public service records have added value to national development. Among them are the APC governors of Imo, Enugu and particularly, the Governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, whose journey from the legislature to the executive arm of governance has been marked by noteworthy contributions.

As a legislator, and later as Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, he participated in significant law-making and oversight efforts that shaped the state’s
Functional framework”

She thanked the Governor of Ebonyi state, Mr Francis  Nwifuru for providing everything needed to host this event in the State.

“It is with deep appreciation and a sense of responsibility that I stand before you at this important inauguration of the South-East Zonal inauguration of the Grassroots Advocacy for Tinubu (GAT) 2027). Today’s event reflects our commitment to structured engagement, coordination, and national inclusion for project TINUBU and by extension, those of our APC governors come 2027″. She added.

The State Chairman of All Progressives Congress, APC in Ebonyi State, Mr Stanley Okoroemegha said the inauguration would help to encourage civic participation and to ensure that voices across this zone contribute meaningfully to national dialogue.

The Chairman of today’s occasion, Chief Lazarus Ogbe thanked the Advocacy group for taking such steps which would help in coordinating simultaneous communication at all times.

 

Niger State Governor Presents 2026 Budget of N1.031tn

Mosunmola Ore
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Niger State Governor Presents 2026 Budget of N1.031tn

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, has presented a 2026 budget estimate of more than N1 trillion to the State House of Assembly. 

Presenting the proposal at the Assembly chamber in Minna the state capital, Governor Bago said that the budget which is titled “Budget of Consolidation.” is designed to build on past achievements while addressing current challenges facing the state.

The budget shows over N270 billion (26.19%) as recurrent expenditure, while more than N761 billion (73.81%) is for capital projects.

Governor Bago explained that the budget will be funded through statutory allocation, VAT, internally generated revenue, FAAC receipts, grants, loans, and other revenue sources. He noted that the proposal aims to strengthen the state’s economy despite global economic uncertainties.

In the sectoral breakdown, the economic sector received the highest allocation of over 510 billion, while the transportation sector received the least, with slightly above 1 billion Naira.

The governor said government interventions in 2026 will focus on key areas including wealth and job creation, agricultural transformation, improved healthcare, better road networks, water and electricity projects, education, and improved revenue generation. Other priorities include due process, digital transformation of state-owned media, enhanced security, and partnerships for development.

Governor Bago stated that the budget is built on fiscal discipline and strategic investment aimed at expanding opportunities and improving the quality of life for citizens. He also highlighted the achievements of the 2025 budget and reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and accountability.

He thanked the Speaker and members of the 10th State House of Assembly for their cooperation, which he said has strengthened governance and boosted public confidence. He urged the Assembly to consider and pass the budget quickly for the benefit of the state.

The governor also called on residents to support his administration in building a secure, green, and prosperous Niger State.

In his remarks, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, AbdulMalik Sarkin Daji, praised the good relationship between the executive and the legislature. He promised that the budget will be passed soon and assured the House’s continuous support for policies that will strengthen governance and speed up development across the state.

 

Anambra Wins Four Awards at Digital Economy Conference

Oluwasola Akintonde
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Anambra Wins Four Awards at Digital Economy Conference

Anambra State has reinforced its status as one of Nigeria’s digital transformation leaders after winning four major awards at the 13th National Council on Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy (NCCIDE) conference.

The event held from December 8-12 in Jos, Plateau State, had its theme as:  “Accelerating Inclusive Digital Transformation: Bridging Gaps and Fostering Sustainable Growth Through Innovation.”

It  convened federal and state governments, industry leaders and technology stakeholders to assess nationwide progress and shape the country’s digital future.

A central feature of the gathering was the States Innovation Peer Review Session, where states presented their achievements in ICT adoption, digital governance and innovation-driven development.

Anambra emerged as one of the most outstanding performers, securing:

Best Overall Performing State in ICT Development

Best State in ICT Human Capital Development

Second Runner-Up in Infrastructure Development

Second Runner-Up in eGovernment Implementation

Receiving the awards on behalf of the state, Managing Director/CEO of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Agbata attributed the achievements to Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s digital-first governance blueprint.

He described the recognition as “a validation of the Governor’s bold vision and the teamwork driving Anambra’s transformation.”

Agbata noted that targeted investments in broadband expansion, eGovernment services, digital skills, and tech-driven reforms have positioned the state as a model for innovation-led development.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to deepening technology adoption under Soludo’s “Everything Technology, Technology Everywhere” agenda.

In a message shared on his official social platforms, Governor Soludo celebrated the awards, emphasising that the state would “not rest on its laurels” but continue leveraging technology to strengthen institutions, create opportunities and build a digitally empowered smart mega city.

This is the second consecutive year Anambra has clinched four major NCCIDE awards, sustaining its profile as a frontrunner in digital governance, infrastructure expansion and human capital development.

Anambra’s repeated success, observers note, demonstrates how purposeful leadership and a people-centred approach to technology can accelerate development and drive inclusive growth.

 

Olusola Akintonde

Google to Set Up Subsea Cables in Papua New Guinea

Victoria Ibanga
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Google to Set Up Subsea Cables in Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea announced on Friday that Alphabet’s (GOOGL.O) opens tab Google will build three subsea cables, funded by Australia under a mutual defence treaty, in a key upgrade to the digital backbone of the biggest Pacific Island nation.

Australian and U.S. military strategist view resource-rich but largely under-developed Papua New Guinea (PNG) as having a prized location north of Australia at a time when China is boosting its influence in the region.

The $120-million effort will link northern and southern Papua New Guinea and the Bougainville autonomous region with high-capacity cables, said Peter Tsiamalili, PNG’s acting minister for information and communications technology.

“The entire investment (is) funded through Australia’s commitments under the Pukpuk Treaty,” he said in a statement, referring to the mutual defence pact signed in October.

The project reflected both nations’ shared commitment to advance digital security, regional stability, and national development, he added.

The subsea cables will be built by Google, the statement said, adding that Tsiamalili met Australian and U.S. diplomats to discuss the project at Google’s Australian office this week.

Australia’s foreign affairs department did not immediately respond to a request for comment

The three international-grade subsea cables will cut reliance on single points of failure, and position PNG to attract investment from hyper-scalers and global digital enterprises, Tsiamalili said.

The pact between Australia and PNG, known as the Pukpuk Treaty gives Australian defence personnel access to PNG communications systems, including satellite stations and cables, its text shows.

Newsmen previously reported Google planned to build a data hub on Australia’s Indian Ocean outpost of Christmas Island, another strategic defence location.

Two new cables are planned to link it eastwards with Australian cities hosting key defence bases also used by the U.S. military.

Google confirmed the Christmas island data hub last month, saying two more cable systems would link it westwards with Africa and Asia, to “deepen the resilience” of internet infrastructure“.

The United States is also strengthening military ties with PNG, signing a defence cooperation pact in 2023.

 

 

 

Reuters/Victoria Ibanga

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