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Rivers Crisis: Wike declares he won’t apologize to Odili

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Rivers Crisis: Wike declares he won’t apologize to Odili

Nyesom Wike, the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has declared that he has no obligation to apologize to Peter Odili, the former governor of Rivers State.

Speaking at a luncheon on Friday at his home in Old GRA, Port Harcourt, Wike claimed that his recent remarks on Odili were a reminder of the former governor’s previous public remarks rather than an attack.

The FCT minister, who was also Rivers State’s most recent governor, explained that his comments on Sunday were meant to reaffirm what Odili had said.

Wike also charged Odili with inciting Governor Siminalayi Fubara to flout the conditions of an eight-point peace agreement.

The goal of the December 2023 agreement, which was made in front of President Bola Tinubu, was to end the state’s continuing political turmoil.

“They said I should apologize; for what?” Wike asked. Although I stated as an elder statesman that there is no law that prohibits their daughter from doing so, should you have given your daughter what belonged to your nephew?

Did I mention that your daughter shouldn’t be doing something because of the law?

However, you mentioned that someone is turning Rivers State into his own property. It’s not right.

You are the one turning Rivers State into a private estate, and to top it all off, you have been appointed general overseer.

“You cannot kill me for something I didn’t say since I didn’t say anything bad. You are not like Tinubu. Tinubu referred to Rivers people as good people.

He asked you to make peace because he was an elder statesman, but you returned home. Normally, you would have called Mr. President back to explain how you attempted to put some of them into practice. Is it possible for us to do the remaining tasks? Instead, you defied.

According to them, elders advised me to apologize. For what do you apologize?

“I replied that I had read and heard that someone who ought to be our elder statesman had stated one thing today and another tomorrow, and I declined.

Read Also: Tinubu Launches Command Centre, Smart Green Schools in Enugu

“That should not be said by an elder statesman. “I didn’t say so,” the senior politician added. I would have apologized if he had claimed not to have said that. He did not, however, refute the assertion.

“I didn’t mistreat anyone. I said our elder statesman was the one telling people the kind of mansion and castle I built for him. I did not say that.

“It is not me who said it. It is the man who is supposed to be an elder statesman that said so. You are the one going about telling people what I did.”

Wike, had on Sunday, accused ex-Governor Odili of positioning members of his family in lucrative positions within the state while maintaining control as “the General Overseer”.

The FCT minister made the allegation on Sunday during a thanksgiving service, in response to a comment by Odili, who had said that Governor Siminalayi Fubara had prevented “one man” from turning Rivers State into a personal estate.

An infuriated Wike fired back, urging Odili to stop being a “sycophant and a trader”.

Wike’s luncheon on Friday had in attendance politicians from both the All Progressives Congress, APC, and the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebolo and former Governor of Edo, Adams Oshiomole, also attended the occasion.

During the event, goodwill messages were delivered by several politicians.

Before the speeches, a documentary highlighting instances where Odili had publicly praised Wike was shown to the audience.

Tinubu Launches Command Centre, Smart Green Schools in Enugu

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Tinubu Launches Command Centre, Smart Green Schools in Enugu

Some of the projects carried out by the Enugu State governor Peter Mbah’s government have been launched by President Bola Tinubu.

On his first formal state visit to Enugu on Saturday, Tinubu was met at the airport by Mbah along with Abia Governor Alex Otti, Works Minister Dave Umahi, House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, and other high-ranking government officials.
The president officially opened a number of projects, including the 19-kilometer Airport-New Haven-Bisalla and Okpara Square highways constructed under Mbah’s government, 60 finished Type 2 primary health centers, and 30 smart green schools.

In addition, Tinubu unveiled 150 police cars with AI-enabled security cameras, the state’s new International Conference Center, and a cutting-edge command and control center.

Read Also: Kwankwaso Criticizes Northern Elders Over Presidential Selection for 2027

According to the president, investment, job growth, and a better future are all fueled by infrastructure development.

“It’s a great honor for me and all of you to present to spread the joy of development and recognize the value that we have all brought to this democracy,” he remarked, addressing Your Excellency, the governor of Enugu.

“In order to draw in both domestic and foreign investment, provide employment, and provide us with a better tomorrow than we currently have, infrastructure development is essential.

“Enugu is making significant progress. constructing our future now. Governor Peter Mbah is putting Enugu on the path to growth in the twenty-first century.

Mbah, you’re a smart thinker. I consider you a buddy. Together, we can make significant progress in constructing Nigeria and the future. Build with technology. Encourage investment. The corporate sector’s involvement in politics must be encouraged.

“I declare this project inaugurated because it is a great honor for me.”

View photos from the occasion below.

 

Kwankwaso Criticizes Northern Elders Over Presidential Selection for 2027

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Kwankwaso Criticizes Northern Elders Over Presidential Selection for 2027

Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State, has voiced his displeasure with what he called the acts of “a few individuals claiming to be Northern leaders” who influence the choice of candidates, particularly for the president, in the name of representing the area.

According to the former governor, such acts polarize the populace, undermine democracy, and—above all—lead to the election of unfit leaders.

In an interview with the BBC Hausa Service, Kwankwaso stated that these so-called leaders should be cautioned by the lessons learned from previous elections to avoid meddling in the election process and forcing their will on the populace.

Read Also: Zacch Adedeji declares he won’t contest Oyo governorship in 2027

He stressed that Northern elders, especially those from the Northwest, should not show preference while choosing candidates.

Recall that a while back, the former governor denied reports that he had reached a deal with former Labour Party presidential aspirants Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, implying that each would hold office for a set period of time.

Zacch Adedeji declares he won’t contest Oyo governorship in 2027

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Zacch Adedeji declares he won’t contest Oyo governorship in 2027

The head of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, has stated that he has no intention of running for governor of Oyo state in 2027.

Adedeji gave a speech on Thursday at his church’s New Year’s service in Iwo Ate, Ogo-Oluwa LGA of Oyo.

Despite the fact that Adedeji has not made any public statements, there have been rumors that he may enter the race.

The Youth Coalition for Good Governance of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) asserted in December 2024 that the FIRS chief was preoccupied with his purported political aspirations.
Speaking during the New Year service, however, Adedeji claimed to have completed the tasks assigned to him in Oyo during his tenure as the late Abiola Ajimobi’s commissioner for finance.

Adedeji urged his supporters to offer up prayers for him to do his best work in his current role.

“I want to answer a lot of inquiries. “I, Zach Adedeji, will not run for governor in 2027,” he declared.

“I am aware that many people may not be pleased with this, but everyone who understands the duty and grace that God has bestowed upon us… By the grace of God, we had accomplished everything that God had commanded us to do in the state by the time I was appointed commissioner of finance fourteen years ago.

Read Also: Alake of Egbaland Steps Down as Oando Chairman, Ademola Akinrele Assumes Role

“He has given us that platform, so all I ask of you is that you pray that the Lord gives me strength to do what I’m doing right now. Therefore, I would prefer not to be distracted.

In September 2023, Adedeji was appointed by President Bola Tinubu to lead the FIRS.

At the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), Adedeji has previously held the positions of executive secretary and CEO.

Alake of Egbaland Steps Down as Oando Chairman, Ademola Akinrele Assumes Role

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Alake of Egbaland Steps Down as Oando Chairman, Ademola Akinrele Assumes Role

Following the resignation of Adedotun Gbadebo, the Alake of Egbaland, Oando Plc selected Ademola Akinrele as its board chairman.

The company’s secretary, Ayotola Jagun, said in a statement on Friday that Gbadebo had officially informed the board of his intention to retire from Oando’s board and resign as chairman.

According to Jagun, Gbadebo’s resignation became effective right away following Oando’s December 17, 2024, annual general meeting (AGM).

“Oba Gbadebo served on the Board for more than 18 years, 12 of which were as Chairman, with unmatched distinction,” Jagun stated.
“During his time there, he led the firm through important turning points, including a number of historic deals, with unwavering leadership, sage advice, and a fatherly presence.

In order to guide the business through difficulties and guarantee development and resilience, his firm hand and unflinching dedication were essential.

“Oando Plc’s Board and Management would like to sincerely thank Oba Gbadebo for his outstanding leadership and efforts over the years. His legacy will always play a significant role in Oando’s history.
According to Jagun, Akinrele’s vast experience—which includes work at Agip Plc and Danos & Curole Marine Contractors—will propel the business’s strategic strategy ahead.

Read Also: Assassination Claims: Kaduna APC Refutes Allegations, Faults Senator for Non-Cooperation with Police

“Having previously served as Chairman of the Governance & Nominations Committee and as a Non-Executive Director on the Board, Mr. Akinrele brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role,” she stated.

“He is widely acknowledged as a top authority in commercial law, litigation, aviation, and maritime problems, having served in the legal profession for decades with distinction.

Mr. Akinrele has an LL.M. from the University of Cambridge and an LL.B. (Hons.) from University College London.

He has also held positions on the boards of Danos & Curole Marine Contractors, Agip Plc, and other prestigious organizations.

“He is well-positioned to lead the Board due to his outstanding leadership skills and ability to promote consensus among stakeholders.

“The Board is certain that Oando Plc will continue to build on its tradition of excellence and pursue new growth opportunities under his chairmanship.”

Jagun also announced the appointment of Cosmas Iwueze as an independent non-executive director, effective December 16, 2024.

“Cosmas Iwueze is a seasoned petroleum engineer and business leader with over three decades of experience in the oil and gas industry,” she said.

“Joining Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) in 1990, Cosmas rose through positions of increasing responsibility across Reservoir and Asset Management, Commercial Development, Operations, Project Management, and Business Strategy.

Additionally, he acquired global experience while working in California and Angola for Chevron. Cosmas previously held leadership roles as Business Services Director for Chevron’s Nigeria/Mid-Africa unit, General Manager of Operations, and General Manager of Asset Development and Exploration.

“Notable achievements include securing third-party financing for JV projects and contributing to national petroleum policy development during a secondment to the Nigerian government.

“Prior to retiring in November 2024, Cosmas served as Director of the NNPC/Chevron Joint Venture (JV), overseeing the JV asset development, major projects, as well as oil and gas production with profit and loss accountability.”

Jagun said Cosmos led strategic initiatives at the joint venture, managed multiple general managers, and acted as managing director when required.

Assassination Claims: Kaduna APC Refutes Allegations, Faults Senator for Non-Cooperation with Police

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Assassination Claims: Kaduna APC Refutes Allegations, Faults Senator for Non-Cooperation with Police

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Kaduna chapter claims it has nothing to do with the purported assassination attempt on Senator Lawal Usman.

The senator from Kaduna Central reportedly avoided an assassination attempt on January 1 while celebrating the New Year in his hometown.

After that, the PDP demanded a probe into the incident and accused the APC of participation.

The Kaduna APC responded in a statement on Saturday, calling the charge “false and absurd.”

Promotion
According to Yahaya Pate, the secretary of the Kaduna APC, the police revealed that the senator had not yet formally complained or cooperated with the authorities.

The police have made numerous attempts to contact him, but he has not responded. Therefore, it is puzzling how the PDP came to its irrational conclusion that the APC was involved in this purported occurrence,” the statement said.

Read Also: How Nigerians Can Wisely Invest N1 Million This Year

Failure to do so will confirm suspicions that the purported assassination attempt is a fake intended to defame the APC, incite needless conflict, and thwart the peace and advancement that Kaduna state is currently experiencing.

Promotion
“The APC has serious suspicions that some conflict entrepreneurs are abusing the PDP to thwart the outstanding progress made under the peace initiatives of Senator Uba Sani’s inclusive and people-focused administration.”

The APC reiterated the Uba Sani administration’s commitment to bringing the benefits of democracy to the state and encouraged the senator to assist the police.

“No amount of false narratives will derail the state’s path to progress,” the party said, calling on the PDP to fulfill its duty as a constructive opposition party.

The seriousness of public conversation has been undermined by the PDP’s disturbing reputation for making ill-considered and blatantly misleading claims in Kaduna State, according to the APC.

Promotion
“This careless behavior demonstrates the party’s declining standards, as important matters are handled without adequate scrutiny or due diligence.”

According to the party, “needless provocations or baseless allegations will not divert Sani’s government.”

 

How Nigerians Can Wisely Invest N1 Million This Year

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How Nigerians Can Wisely Invest N1 Million This Year

A deliberate strategy is necessary when deciding where to invest N1 million in 2025.

As of November 2024, inflation was 34.60%, therefore real returns—those that surpass inflation—were more important than returns.

The necessity is highlighted by the time value of money, which states that N1 now is worth more than N1 tomorrow.
You are essentially losing money if your investment does not yield returns higher than inflation.

Liquidity, capital preservation, and risk tolerance also influence the investment climate.

However, selecting an investing channel ultimately comes down to other important factors, such as your age and financial goals.

These elements are interconnected, serve as the cornerstone of any sensible investment plan, and ought to direct every choice because seeking large returns at the expense of risks might result in big losses.

Having said that, let’s examine how different asset classes have performed, their outlooks, and which ones can present the year’s finest investment prospects.

High risk, high reward in stocks?
A diversified portfolio including equities from the oil and gas, insurance, and banking sectors, including companies like Seplat, Conoil, and Aradel, would be the best location to put N1 million in 2025.

The “buy low, sell high” strategy offers a chance to profit from the sector’s possible recovery and expansion, even though banking stocks did not do as well in 2024 as they did in 2023.

There aren’t many asset types in Nigeria that provide positive inflation-adjusted returns given the present rate of inflation.

But stocks have shown out to be a noteworthy exception. Despite difficult economic circumstances, the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) demonstrated exceptional resiliency in 2024.
The All-Share Index (ASI) outperformed the inflation rate with an outstanding year-to-date (YtD) increase of 37.65%.
Interestingly, over 70 equities in 2024 produced year-over-date returns that were higher than the inflation rate in November 2024, underscoring their reputation as inflation-protected investments.
Similar results were seen in 2023, when about 91 equities beat the 28.92% inflation rate.
With dividend yields ranging from 2% to 12%, these equities also give investors an extra incentive by fusing income creation with capital appreciation.

But stocks are notoriously erratic. A bull market year does not mean that it will happen again.

However, for investors prepared to bear short-term volatility, stocks can provide substantial gains.
50% of the N1 million should go toward a diverse portfolio with an emphasis on high-growth industries for younger, risk-tolerant investors.
ETFs: Limited upside or diversified exposure?
Exchange-traded funds are an additional asset class to take into account. By distributing risk and offering exposure to a variety of securities, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) present an alluring compromise. Currently, the NGX has twelve ETFs.

For example, investors can profit from sector-wide trends by investing in the Vetiva Banking ETF, which replicates the performance of the banking industry.
Nonetheless, the performance of the underlying assets is intrinsically linked to the returns of exchange-traded funds. The poor performance of the banking sector index during the first half of 2024 was reflected in the Vetiva Banking ETF’s -6.14% return.
Its remarkable 109% year-to-date return in 2023 stands in stark contrast to this, demonstrating how sector-specific ETFs can perform poorly in difficult market circumstances.
Considering these elements, investing the full N1 million here puts you at risk, particularly in industries that are unstable or performing poorly. It can, however, provide a positive real return.

Investments with fixed incomes: a reliable but constrained choice
For cautious investors, fixed-income securities such as Treasury Bills, Commercial Papers, and FGN Bonds are essential.

Due to rising interest rates, these investments offered alluring yields of 20–30% in 2024. For instance, the average yield on Treasury Bills ended the year at 25.5%, while the yield on FGN Bonds was 19.75%.
“The fixed income market returns remained elevated with money market and bond yields at 20% level by year-end as FX volatility and Naira depreciation led to an increased appetite for Dollar denominated investments,” said Busola Jejelowo, CEO of Stanbic IBTC Asset Management, in a statement.
The aggressive 875 basis point interest rate hikes by the Central Bank of Nigeria increased fixed-income returns and attracted a lot of investor interest.
Nevertheless, these returns only marginally exceeded inflation, which in November 2024 was 34.60%, leading to either negative or limited real returns.

Furthermore, rising rates in 2024 might turn around in 2025, which might lower yields and cause mark-to-market losses on current assets.

Fixed-income investments are ideal for stability and steady cash flow, but they may not generate real returns in a high-inflation environment.

A better strategy is not to invest the N1 million in fixed-income investment but to adopt a diversification strategy of allocating about 30%.

Mutual Funds
If the prospective investor has a low-risk appetite, then mutual funds are also an option to consider with a low-risk appetite.

There are money market mutual funds, equity mutual funds, fixed-income mutual funds, Dollar mutual funds, real estate investment trust funds, etc.

They are professionally managed and offer the opportunity to diversify across different financial markets.

But then let us look at the return in 2024. The return on mutual funds hovered between 7.5% – 38% for the year. For instance, Stanbic IBTC Dollar funds, Money Market Funds, and Equity funds generated a return of 7.5%, 21%, and 38% respectively for the year.
While some funds delivered strong returns, many failed to outpace Nigeria’s inflation rate, leading to negative real returns for investors in lower-performing funds.

Read Also: Nigerian Conservation Foundation Announces Grant Opportunities for PhD students

For instance, Securities Exchange Commission funds’ valuation report as of December 2024, shows that the equity mutual fund has an average YtD gain of 29% with Halo Equity Fund posting as high as 87% YtD return.
Mutual funds are a strong choice for investors seeking professional management and diversification with varying risk appetites.
However, selecting the right type of fund is critical to achieving inflation-beating returns.
High-performing equity funds or mixed funds may be more suitable for growth-focused investors, while money market funds provide stability for conservative investors.

Overall, there are no one-size-fits-all investment strategies in 2025. Based on key considerations, a diversified portfolio offers the best chance of achieving real returns while managing risks:

50% in equities for high-growth potential, focusing on resilient sectors.
30% in fixed-income securities for capital preservation and predictable income.
20% in ETFs or mutual funds for diversification and professional management.

Nigerian Conservation Foundation Announces Grant Opportunities for PhD students

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Nigerian Conservation Foundation Announces Grant Opportunities for PhD students

During the upcoming 23rd Chief S.L. Edu Memorial Lecture, two Ph.D. students studying environmental science will receive funding from the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, or NCF.

Olusomi Oduguwa, the foundation’s manager of media and communications, made this announcement on Saturday in Lagos.

According to Mr. Oduguwa, the two PhD candidates studying environmental sciences at any Nigerian university would receive the grant, which was funded by Chevron Nigeria Ltd.

The grant, which is supported by Chevron Nigeria Ltd., aims to further studies in biodiversity preservation, environmental management, sustainable livelihood, and nature conservation.

“Months of rigorous adjudication exercises involving academics, professionals, and stakeholders in the fields of conservation are used to select successful candidates,” he stated.

According to Mr. Oduguwa, the talk, titled “Greening Africa’s Economies: Can Climate Positive Growth Deliver Prosperity?,” will take place on Victoria Island in Lagos on January 14.

He also mentioned that former Federal Republic of Nigeria vice president Yemi Osinbajo would be giving the lecture.

Nigeria’s leading environmental non-governmental organization, NCF is committed to sustainable development and the preservation of nature.

The NCF’s premier advocacy tool, the Chief S.L. Edu Memorial Lecture, uses well-known speakers to advocate for solutions while bringing important environmental challenges to light.

The lecture has given Nigerians and others a forum to discuss urgent sustainability and environmental challenges for more than 20 years.

“The event has continuously articulated solutions to environmental challenges while promoting sustainable development through renowned speakers,” he said.

According to him, the subject for this year emphasized how urgent climate-positive growth is to promoting sustainable economic development throughout Africa.

“The lecture intends to spark conversations on developing green economies that strike a balance between wealth and environmental responsibility, given the increasing effects of climate change on economies, livelihoods, and ecosystems.

Read Also: In Kebbi, Lakurawa terrorist group kill two policemen, steal over 200 cows

He said, “Prof. Osinbajo, who is well-known for his dedication to sustainable development and economic transformation, will give a talk that will highlight ways for Africa to achieve climate-positive growth while fostering prosperity and resilience for its people.”

He went on to say that the Chief S.L. Edu memorial speech has made a big difference in Nigerian public opinion and government policy, as well as to some extent, around the world.

It has also helped other researchers achieve their objectives and add to the corpus of knowledge in the environmental science discipline.

Following each lecture, the government and interested parties are informed of the lecture’s recommendations.

Policymakers, conservation stakeholders, government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and academics are the intended audience for this prominent lobbying tool.

According to him, “others include traditional rulers, researchers, the National Executive Council and Board of Trustees of the NCF, NCF members, and the local and international press, among others.”

According to him, the occasion is still essential to achieving the goals and objectives of the foundation.

In Kebbi, Lakurawa terrorist group kill two policemen, steal over 200 cows

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In Kebbi, Lakurawa terrorist group kill two policemen, steal over 200 cows

In an attack on Natsini village in Kebbi State’s Argungu Local Government Area, gunmen believed to be affiliated with the Lakurawa terrorist organization killed two police officers and took more than 200 cows.

According to reports, the attack happened on Thursday night at approximately 11 p.m. close to a checkpoint on the Augie/Kangiwa route.

Read Also: Kaduna, Port Harcourt Refineries Will Achieve World-Class Standards, NNPCL Assures

According to witnesses, the more than fifty attackers on motorbikes overran the checkpoint officials before moving on to the village to rustle the cattle.

The Argungu Local Government Area chairman, Aliyu Gulma, acknowledged the event and said that a security meeting had been called to address the issue.

Kaduna, Port Harcourt Refineries Will Achieve World-Class Standards, NNPCL Assures

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Kaduna, Port Harcourt Refineries Will Achieve World-Class Standards, NNPCL Assures

According to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), it is working nonstop to guarantee that the refineries in Kaduna and the second one in Port Harcourt satisfy international standards.

Both refineries are presently undergoing a complete makeover to match international standards, according to a statement sent by the firm by Olufemi Soneye, its Chief Corporate Communications Officer.

Read Also: Osun Police Detain Couple as Husband Allegedly Kills Bishop with Stabbing

The 60,000 bpd carried out at the Port Harcourt and Warri Refineries, according to Soneye, is not your average Turnaround Maintenance, or TAM, of the past.

That, he claims, is the whole makeover that has been planned to satisfy top-tier requirements.

Soneye added that comparable work was being done at a second refinery in Port Harcourt and Kaduna, identical to the renovations completed in Port Harcourt and Warri.

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