NEWS
Tinubu, Governors Honour Fallen Heroes, Pledge Support For Widows
On January 15, 2025, President Bola Tinubu commemorated the sacrifices of Nigeria’s Armed Forces in a heartfelt tribute to the men and women who gave their lives for the country’s territorial integrity.
Tinubu, who was in the United Arab Emirates for the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, shared his message on X, saying, “Let us eschew violence and divisive tendencies for a peaceful and prosperous nation. Let us all become ambassadors of peace.”
Representing the President at the National Arcade in Abuja, Vice President Kashim Shettima led the wreath-laying ceremony, joined by key figures including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and Chief Justice of Nigeria Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun. The ceremony was also attended by ministers, service chiefs, and various government officials.
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Governors across the country, including Ogun State’s Dapo Abiodun, Katsina’s Dikko Radda, and Rivers’ Siminalayi Fubara, held similar tributes in their states, paying homage to the fallen heroes while promising continued support for their families.
In the midst of these tributes, some governors like Ondo’s Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Akwa Ibom’s Umo Eno highlighted the plight of widows left behind, reaffirming their commitment to providing financial and emotional support. Akwa Ibom’s Governor, Umo Eno, emphasized, “We will continue to celebrate and honor their sacrifices… The widows of our fallen soldiers… will not walk alone.”
Meanwhile, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, expressed gratitude for the courage and patriotism of the fallen heroes, while also extending his condolences to their families. He added that the government would continue to ensure their legacy is preserved.
The ceremony, which included prayers, the last post bugle call, and a minute of silence, also saw wreath-laying by military and diplomatic officials, including the Nigerian Legion’s Maj Gen Abdulmalik Jubril (retd) and Mrs Olubunmi Ese-Okiti, representing the Military Widows Association.
The remembrance day was a solemn occasion for Nigerians to honor the sacrifices made by the country’s military, ensuring that their contributions would not be forgotten.
As the nation marked this significant day, leaders across the country vowed to continue supporting the Armed Forces, ensuring that the sacrifices of the fallen heroes and the well-being of their families remain at the forefront of national consciousness.
NEWS
Appeal Court Upholds Julius Abure As Labour Party National Chairman
The Appeal Court has affirmed Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP).
The confirmation was announced through a post on the Labour Party’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle.
It read: “Barr Julius Abure remains the LP National Chairman, Appeal Court Rules.”
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Further verification was provided by the Publicity Secretary of the party, Obiora Ifoh, who confirmed the development in a phone call.
This ruling follows a previous judgement by a Federal High Court, which had also recognised Abure as the rightful leader of the Labour Party.
The latest decision by the Appeal Court solidifies Abure’s leadership and is expected to bring clarity to the party’s internal structure.
More details on the ruling are expected to be released soon.
NEWS
Dangote Refinery Raises Petrol Price To N955 Per Litre
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced an increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly referred to as petrol.
The revised price, which takes effect from Friday, January 17, 2025, sets the cost at N955 per litre for marketers purchasing between 2 million and 4.99 million litres. Those buying 5 million litres and above will pay N950 per litre.
This adjustment represents a 6.17% increase from the previous price of N899.50 per litre set in December 2024.
In an official statement, the refinery disclosed: “Kindly be advised that effective from 5:30 PM today, an upward adjustment has been implemented on the gantry price of Premium Motor Spirit.
Quantity and Price Adjustments:
2 million–4.99 million litres: N955 per litre
5 million litres and above: N950 per litre
“Please note that all stock balances yet to be lifted as at the above-stated time are to be repriced at the new reviewed prices.
“We shall communicate with customers on their revised volumes based on the reviewed prices, in due course.”
This price increase has sparked discussions among marketers and stakeholders as it reflects a continued trend of rising fuel costs in the country.
NEWS
Tinubu Sets 14-Month Deadline For Completion Of Abuja-Kano Expressway
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated the completion of the Abuja-Kano Expressway within 14 months, underscoring his administration’s commitment to fast-tracking critical infrastructure projects.
The announcement was made on Thursday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during an inspection of the project site in Tafa, Niger State.
Idris, accompanied by the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, and members of the National Assembly, highlighted the President’s determination to ensure the project’s timely delivery.
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In a statement issued Friday by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, Idris disclosed that sections of the original contract handled by Julius Berger PLC were revoked and reassigned to a new contractor due to delays.
He emphasized that the revised timeline reflects the President’s resolve to deliver the project on schedule.
“Mr. President is determined to see the completion of this project within the revised timeline. We will not allow any contractor to hold us to ransom.
“The target of 14 months is achievable, and we believe it will be completed on time,” Idris stated, urging stakeholders to prioritize the project as a matter of national importance.
The President’s decision follows his rejection of a proposed three-year completion timeline by Julius Berger, which included an increased budget from ₦797 billion to ₦1.5 trillion.
“The Honourable Minister of Works has set a 14-month target, and with the enthusiasm and determination of everyone involved, we believe this goal is achievable.
This road is essential for linking the Federal Capital Territory to Kano and other states. President Tinubu is resolute that this project will be completed, and nothing will stop it,” Idris added.
Enhanced Features and New Developments
Minister Umahi revealed enhancements to the project, including a 10.6-kilometre extension to the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, a 5-kilometre extension towards Kogi State, and solar lighting along the entire stretch.
“I am happy to announce that we received a ‘No Objection’ from the Bureau of Public Procurement for a total contract sum of ₦252.89 billion. I am confident the Federal Executive Council will approve this in its next sitting,” Umahi said.
The expressway, segmented into three sections for efficiency, is a key corridor connecting Nigeria’s capital to Kano and surrounding regions.
Once completed, the project will facilitate economic growth, enhance connectivity, and prepare the road for an operation and maintenance concession.