Category Archives: Featured

Nurses suspend warning strike, direct members to resume work

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The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) has suspended its seven-day nationwide warning strike, directing members to return to work immediately.

The decision was reached during an emergency virtual meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) on Saturday, following a review of recent engagements with the Federal Government.

The industrial action, which began earlier in the week, sought the implementation of several demands, including an upward review of shift and uniform allowances, creation of a dedicated salary structure for nurses, an increase in core duty allowance, mass recruitment of nursing personnel, and the establishment of a dedicated nursing department within the Federal Ministry of Health.

On Friday, NANNM officials met with representatives from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Office of the Accountant General, and the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, among other stakeholders, in an effort to resolve the dispute.

Read Also: Doctors begin 3-day warning strike in Lagos

Confirming the suspension, Chidi Aligwe, Assistant Secretary-General of NANNM, said:

“The strike has been suspended. Nurses and midwives are to resume duty immediately.”

A formal circular signed by Haruna Mamman, NANNM’s National President, and T.A. Shettima, General Secretary, explained that the NEC resolved to call off the strike after reviewing the signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and agreed timelines for implementing the key issues.

The circular reads: “NEC acknowledges the positive steps taken by the Federal Government in responding to the nine core demands of NANNM, particularly the commitment to clear timelines for implementation. In view of the formal agreement reached, NEC hereby suspends the ongoing nationwide strike action with immediate effect.”

The NEC also assured members that no nurse — including interns and locum staff — would be victimised for participating in the strike, while vowing to monitor the government’s compliance with the agreed timelines.

The association commended members for their solidarity and reaffirmed its commitment to defending the welfare, dignity, and professional rights of all nurses and midwives in Nigeria.

Dangote Refinery appoints David Bird as CEO

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The Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has named David Bird as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of its petroleum and petrochemicals division, effective July 2025.

The appointment, first reported by S&P Global, comes as the refinery works to overcome production challenges and push forward with its expansion plans, including the nationwide distribution of fuel — an initiative already attracting significant pushback from some stakeholders.

A source within the company said that Bird, a mechanical engineer and graduate of Imperial College London, also holds an MBA from Stanford University. He brings over two decades of experience with Shell and a strong track record in global oil and gas operations.

Bird previously served as the head of Oman’s Duqm Refinery and as Senior Vice President of Production Operations and Supply Chain at Santos Ltd. At Shell, he was Vice President of Prelude FLNG, leading the world’s first floating LNG facility, and chaired Shell Australia’s RAP board. He also oversaw operations at Pulau Bukom in Singapore, Shell’s largest refinery.

Read Also: Dangote Refinery suspends Petrol Discount Scheme over alleged misuse by partners

Speaking on his appointment, Bird said his priority would be to expand Dangote’s market presence beyond Nigeria and into other African countries, while driving maximum output and operational efficiency to position the company as a global energy leader.

Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Industries Limited, will continue as chairman of the refinery while serving as CEO of the broader group, which also operates in cement, fertiliser, and sugar refining.

The 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) refinery, inaugurated by former President Muhammadu Buhari in May 2023, began producing diesel and aviation fuel in January 2024 and started petrol production by September 2024, meeting global quality standards.

In September 2024, the refinery also announced an exclusive partnership with Premier Product Marketing LLC, a US-based firm, to export polypropylene to markets outside Nigeria and Africa.

By August 15, 2025, the refinery is expected to commence fuel distribution to end-users across Nigeria using 4,000 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered trucks.

Tinubu moves Surveyor-General’s office to Presidency

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President Bola Tinubu has approved the transfer of the Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation (OSGoF) from the Ministry of Works to the Presidency.

The President disclosed the directive on Thursday during the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, explaining that the move would enhance coordination and execution of major infrastructure projects, particularly the Lagos-Calabar and Sokoto-Badagry Super Highways.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, also confirmed the development while briefing State House correspondents after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting presided over by Tinubu.

Read Also: APC will welcome Wike – Tinubu

According to Idris, the reassignment is aimed at streamlining geospatial data management and strengthening direct oversight of national mapping and land administration priorities.

Although the minister did not provide exhaustive details, analysts note that the decision aligns with the administration’s reform agenda and increasing reliance on geospatial intelligence for infrastructure planning, development, and security mapping.

The OSGoF serves as Nigeria’s apex mapping agency, responsible for providing accurate geospatial data and services to support national development.

Tinubu’s legacy road projects equitable – FG

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The Federal Government says President Bola Tinubu’s legacy road projects reflect his administration’s commitment to equitable infrastructural development.

The Minister of State for Works, Mr Bello Goronyo stated this on Wednesday in Kaduna at a two-day interactive session on Government-Citizens Engagement organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation.

The legacy projects, according to the minister included the 1,068m kilometre Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway and the 750 kilometre Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway.

Read Also: Tinubu appoints Olumode Adeyemi as new FFS boss

The other are, the 477 kilometre Trans-Saharan Highway traversing Calabar, Ebonyi, Kogi, Benue, Nasarawa, and the FCT, and the 422 kilometre Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe Expressway.

Goronyo explained that the projects were designed to connect states; enhance national integration; and unlock new economic corridors.

 He said four reputable construction firms are handling the Sokoto–Zaria road, with reinforced concrete to ensure durability and longevity.

(NAN)

Tinubu appoints Olumode Adeyemi as new FFS boss

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President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of Deputy Controller-General (DCG)  Olumode Adeyemi, as the new Federal Fire Service (FFS) Controller-General (CG).

The appointment was announced on Wednesday on behalf of the Federal Government by retired Maj.-Gen Abdulmalik Jubril, Secretary to the Civil, Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB).

Jubril said that the appointment followed the retirement of the current CG, Abdulganiyu Jaji on Aug.13.

The board while appreciating Jaji’s dedication and commitment to service, Jubril added that Jaji will be retiring upon attaining the age of 60 on Aug.13

Read Also: Tinubu promises to address diaspora issues

He further said that the new CG was qualified having attended and passed all mandatory in-service trainings, command course as well as other courses within and outside the country.

“He brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having transferred his service from the FCT Fire Service to the Federal Fire Service and grown to the rank of DCG in the Human Resource Directorate of the Service Headquarters.

“He has served in various capacities and is equally a member/fellow of the following professional associations including Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN).

“Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria, Institute of Public Administration of Nigeria and Chartered Institute of Treasury Management of Nigeria,” he said.

(NAN)

NNPCL resumes oil drilling at Kolmani field in Northern Nigeria — Gov Inuwa

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has resumed crude oil drilling activities at the Kolmani oil field, located along the boundary between Bauchi and Gombe states. This was revealed by Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, during a two-day interactive session in Kaduna.

The forum, held at Arewa House and organized by the Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, was aimed at evaluating the performance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in Northern Nigeria during its first year in office.

Speaking at the event, Governor Yahaya highlighted that oil companies have returned to site after a period of lengthy negotiations involving the National Security Adviser. He expressed confidence that visible progress will be seen as early as next week.

Governor Yahaya recounted how President Tinubu, then a presidential candidate, was not initially invited to the Kolmani drilling flag-off in 2022 under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. However, Yahaya said he personally pushed for Tinubu’s inclusion at the event through the APC leadership.

Read Also: We’re not selling employment slots, NNPCL warns applicants

“I personally invited President Tinubu to the event, and he said he would continue the project where the Buhari administration stopped. He fulfilled that promise,” the governor stated.

The NNPCL had first announced the discovery of hydrocarbon deposits in the Kolmani River II Well in October 2019. This discovery, made in the Upper Benue Trough, Gongola Basin, marked the first successful oil exploration in Northern Nigeria.

Drilling at Kolmani officially began in 2022 under President Buhari’s government, with hopes that the project would bring lasting economic transformation to the North.

According to NNPCL, over 1 billion barrels of crude oil and 500 billion cubic feet of gas were discovered in the Kolmani area. The project has already attracted an estimated $3 billion investment, expected to generate massive employment, increase government revenue, and stimulate foreign direct investment.

With drilling now back on track, Northern Nigeria is set to witness a new wave of oil-driven development and infrastructure growth.

BREAKING: Tinubu confers National honours on Super Falcons, gifts each player $100,000

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has awarded national honours to the victorious Super Falcons of Nigeria following their historic triumph at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).

At a reception held on Monday at the State House in Abuja, the president also announced a cash reward of $100,000 (equivalent in naira) for each of the 24 players, in recognition of their outstanding performance and for clinching Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title.

Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu hosts Super Falcons after historic WAFCON win

In addition to the players’ rewards, members of the technical crew will each receive $50,000, further underscoring the government’s appreciation for their efforts in guiding the team to continental glory.

The Super Falcons defeated host nation Morocco 3-2 in a thrilling final in Rabat, reinforcing their status as Africa’s most successful women’s football team.

President Tinubu had earlier commended the team during a video call on Sunday, promising to receive and celebrate them in Abuja, a promise he fulfilled with fanfare.

The conferment of national honours and financial gifts is seen as a major morale booster for women’s football in Nigeria.

BREAKING: Tinubu hosts Super Falcons after historic WAFCON win

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is currently hosting the Super Falcons at the State House in Abuja, following their stunning victory in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final in Rabat, Morocco.

The Nigerian team, captained by Rasheedat Ajibade and led by head coach Justin Madugu, arrived at the Presidential Villa at exactly 4:35 p.m. on Monday to a hero’s welcome.

At the forecourt of the State House, the Falcons were personally received by President Tinubu, who congratulated the squad for clinching Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title, a feat that reaffirms their status as Africa’s most successful women’s football team.

Read Also: WAFCON: Tinubu to host Super Falcons in Abuja on Monday

The warm reception comes just as the President had promised during a post-match video call on Sunday.

“I am very, very proud of you. The entire nation is proud of you. You have lifted our spirits. You are a pride to your generation, and we are all very happy,” President Tinubu said during the call.

“You will be celebrated, and I look forward to receiving the trophy in Abuja.”

The Super Falcons defeated host nation Morocco 3-2 in a thrilling final that has been hailed as one of the most exciting matches in WAFCON history.

More details to follow…

JUST IN: SDP expels El-Rufai, slams 30-Year ban on him

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The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has expelled former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, and barred him from associating with the party in any capacity for the next 30 years.

The decision was announced on Monday in a statement signed by Araba Aiyenigba, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, following a resolution by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the SDP.

According to the party, El-Rufai was expelled over a series of alleged infractions including false claims of party membership, forgery, manipulation of internal party processes, and attempts to destabilize the SDP from within.

The party clarified that despite El-Rufai’s public declaration of having joined the SDP, investigations revealed that he never registered at his ward level as required by the party’s constitution.

“El-Rufai failed to register at his ward in Kaduna State but falsely declared on social media that he had joined the SDP. He even forged documents and took photos with suspended leaders to legitimize his false claim,” the statement alleged.

Read Also: Ribadu didn’t say Tinubu was corrupt, Reno Omokri knocks El-Rufai

The SDP further accused the former governor of forging his own membership documents, and of assigning himself the status of “Number 001” in the SDP membership register of Unguwar Sarki Ward in Kaduna North LGA, a move the party described as both deceptive and illegal.

The SDP also claimed that El-Rufai had declared for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) while simultaneously attempting to drag the SDP into an unauthorized political coalition, a move the party viewed as a breach of its constitution and ideological principles.

“Having confirmed that he publicly declared for the ADC and continued to act contrary to SDP’s principles, the party has no option but to disassociate and excommunicate him,” the statement added.

As a result, the party stated: “Nasir El-Rufai has been banished and banned from applying for membership, identifying with the name, insignia, or logo of the SDP, or participating in any affairs of the party for 30 years, effective immediately.”

The party also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant authorities to note that El-Rufai is not a member of the SDP and is not authorized to speak or act on behalf of the party in any capacity.

The SDP revealed that El-Rufai had earlier proposed an elaborate welcome ceremony at the party’s national secretariat, which was declined. He was instead advised to undergo the proper registration process at the ward level.

“Rather than register lawfully, he forged documents and attempted to legitimize himself through photo-ops with suspended party officials,” the party stated.

Recall that El-Rufai recently announced his resignation from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing a disconnect between his values and the direction of the party. Shortly after, he declared allegiance to the SDP, a move now firmly rejected by the party.

The SDP reaffirmed its commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and principled opposition, warning that no individual, regardless of status, can bypass due process.

BREAKING: Super Falcons arrive in Abuja after winning 10th WAFCON title

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Nigeria’s women’s national football team, the Super Falcons, received a hero’s welcome on Monday afternoon as they touched down in Abuja following their historic triumph at the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

The team, arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport aboard a chartered flight around 2:30 p.m. to the cheers of supporters, officials, and journalists.

Read Also: WAFCON: Tinubu to host Super Falcons in Abuja on Monday

Government officials, football stakeholders, and fans trooped to the airport to receive the team, waving flags and singing victory songs to honour the champions.

The Falcons defeated South Africa 2-1 in a dramatic final, with Michelle Alozie’s last-minute goal sealing the victory and adding another golden chapter to Nigeria’s dominance in women’s football on the continent.