The Labour Party, LP, 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, on Monday, said the founder of Dangote refinery, Aliko Dangote did the right thing investing in Nigeria.
Obi assured Dangote that he’s strong enough to overcome all the challenges confronting him.
Last week, Dangote had accused the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited of attempting to frustrate the functionality of his refinery.
Dangote said some of his friends had laughed at him for opting to site his refinery in Nigeria.
However, Obi informed Dangote that we are all created to serve humanity, adding that service may come with its attendant challenges.
Posting on X, Obi wrote: “Recently, the media was awash with a comment of disappointment credited to Alhaji Aliko Dangote, where he said that one of his wealthy friends who earlier discouraged him from investing in Nigeria, now mocks him, following the many challenges that have continued to contend with his business operations.
“My Dear Elder Brother, Alhaji Dangote, I want you to know that your friend is wrong. You did the right thing by investing in the productivity, growth, development and progress of our beloved nation, through your many business ventures, irrespective of the challenges and obstacles that now stand in your way.
“But God knows that you are strong enough to overcome the challenges and contribute to building a better humanity. I have lost more in my own life ever since I joined public service, which I would not have lost if I remained in the private sector.
“From all my savings from abroad which I brought back home, to the businesses I started in Nigeria which were either run aground or taken over by those entrusted with their management, I endured them all.
“Till today, I still face similar challenges where most times one is either being harassed by the government or the same system meant to protect you.
“But I believe that God kept us for this, and has empowered us to bring positive change and shine the light on the dark areas of
our nation.
“I encourage you to remain resilient in the face of the present challenges, not for material gains, but for the development and progress of the nation and a better humanity.”
Dangote did right thing investing in Nigeria – Peter Obi
Dangote did right thing investing in Nigeria – Peter Obi
Agbese Extends Birthday Felicitation to Elder Statesman, Chief Audu Ogbeh
The Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives and esteemed member representing Ado, Ogbadibo, and Okpokwu Federal Constituency, Chief (Dr.) Philip Agbese, has extended his warm birthday felicitations to elder statesman and former Minister of Agriculture, Chief Audu Ogbeh, as he clocks 77.
A statement signed by the Deputy Spokesman of the House described Chief Ogbeh as a national figure who has sacrificed a lot for nation-building and national unity. The statement further elaborated on Chief Ogbeh’s dedication and service to the country, underscoring his pivotal role in various capacities over the decades. Chief Ogbeh’s tenure as the Minister of Agriculture, among other positions, has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s agricultural policies and practices, contributing to the enhancement of food security and rural development. He is a fountain of knowledge, a reservoir of wisdom, and our library of Congress when it comes to modern politics, as captured in the statement.
Chief Ogbeh is not only recognized for his political acumen but also for his profound influence on the socioeconomic development of Nigeria. His contributions have spanned multiple sectors, demonstrating a commitment to the betterment of the country and its citizens. His efforts in fostering sustainable agricultural practices and advocating for rural development have earned him accolades and respect from various quarters.
Dr. Agbese expressed his gratitude to Chief Ogbeh for the fatherly guidance he has provided over the years. He acknowledged the mentorship and support that Chief Ogbeh has extended to him and many others, helping to shape the next generation of Nigerian leaders. Dr. Agbese emphasized that Chief Ogbeh’s wisdom and experience have been invaluable in navigating the complexities of governance and public service.
In his birthday message, Dr. Agbese continued to pray for divine health and protection over the life of Chief Ogbeh. He wished him many more years of active service and fulfilment, hoping that he would continue to be a source of inspiration and guidance to many. Dr. Agbese reiterated his commitment to uphold the values and principles that Chief Ogbeh embodies, pledging to continue working towards the betterment of their constituency and the nation at large.
We join the Enone Servant, Dr. Agbese, in wishing elder statesman Chief Audu Ogbeh a happy birthday. May his years ahead be filled with good health, joy, and continued success in all his endeavours.
Lawrence Oduh
Special Adviser on Media, Office of the House of Representatives.
28/07/2024
ETI Disowns Statement Against Reps Deputy Spokesperson Agbese, Accuses Ex-Members of Impersonation
**Says sack of NNPCL, NMDPRA leadership long overdue
The Energy Transparency Initiative (ETI) has disowned a statement made by individuals claiming to be its representatives, criticizing Hon. Philip Agbese, the Deputy Spokesperson of the Federal House of Representatives.
The group’s President and Secretary, Francis Nedu and Ismaila Bello in a joint statement, revealed that the persons were expelled long ago due to fraudulent activities and other abuses that contravened the group’s objectives.
“We are shocked and dismayed that these individuals would continue to impersonate ETI and make statements that do not reflect our values and mission,” the statement read.
“Their actions are a clear attempt to blackmail and extort money from innocent parties, and we condemn their behaviour in the strongest terms.
“The leadership of ETI is aware that some government agencies have released as huge as $500,000 to the impostors to blackmail Hon. Philip Agbese and other National Assembly members who want sanity in the oil and gas sector.”
The statement expressed support for Hon. Agbese’s claims of deliberate attempts by the Nigerian Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to discredit Dangote Refinery company.
The group said Agbese demonstrated exceptional leadership and courage in “exposing the truth” and applauded his efforts to protect Nigerian entrepreneurs and promote indigenous businesses.
“Agbese’s dedication to serving the people and upholding the principles of fairness and transparency is exemplary,” the statement added.
“He has shown that he is a true representative of the people, and his actions have earned him the respect and admiration of many. We are proud to support him and stand by him in this matter.
“NNPCL and NMDPRA have shown a clear bias towards International Oil Companies (IOCs) and have consistently frustrated the efforts of Nigerian entrepreneurs.
“Their actions are a disservice to the nation and undermine the government’s efforts to promote indigenous businesses.”
The ETI, therefore, expressed support for the House of Reps call for the Chief Executive Officer of NMDPRA, Farouk Ahmed to resign.
“Agbese’s reiteration of the House’s earlier call for the NMDPRA boss to be sacked is the position of many Nigerians who mean well for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement said.
“We believe that the dismissal of the NNPC Group CEO Mele Kyari is long overdue as well. The ETI calls on President Tinubu to take immediate action to address this issue and ensure that these regulatory agencies serve the interests of the nation, not just a select few.”
ETI, however, said that it had taken legal action against the imposters and already involved law enforcement agencies to ensure that they were brought to justice.
“We will not tolerate any attempts to impersonate our organization or make false statements that damage our reputation,” the statement noted.
“We urge all stakeholders to remain vigilant and uphold the principles of fairness and transparency. We will continue to monitor developments and ensure that all actions and policies are aligned with the national interest, free from undue influence or partisan agendas.”
SOVRENINS, Julius Berger , Oando UACN, others top list of stocks to watch this week
As July inches closer to an end, investors endured a torrid time last week in the equities market.
The Nigerian equities market lost in four of the five trading sessions as the benchmark All-Share Index (ASI) dipped by fell -2.33% to close at 98,201.49 from 100,539.40 points the previous week.
Similarly, investors lost N1.32 trillion as market capitalisation fell to N55.61 trillion from N56.93 trillion the previous week.
However, amidst the poor performance of the bourse, stocks like SOVRENINS, Julius Berger, Oando and UACN still performed well, making them stocks to watch in the new week.
Kindly note that TVN Stocks To Watch is not a buy, sell or hold recommendation. It is advisable to consult your financial advisor before making any investment decision.
SOVRENINS • 0.56 ▴ 0.01 (1.82%)
The current share price of Sovereign Trust Insurance (SOVRENINS) is NGN 0.56. SOVRENINS closed its last trading day (Friday, July 26, 2024) at 0.56 NGN per share on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NGX), recording a 1.8% gain over its previous closing price of 0.55 NGN. Sovereign Trust began the year with a share price of 0.42 NGN and has since gained 33.3% on that price valuation, ranking it 25th on the NGX in terms of year-to-date performance. Shareholders can be optimistic about SOVRENINS knowing the stock has accrued 24% over the past four-week period alone—sixth best on NGX.
Sovereign Trust Insurance is the 48th most traded stock on the Nigerian Stock Exchange over the past three months (Apr 25 – Jul 26, 2024). SOVRENINS has traded a total volume of 83.6 million shares—in 1,163 deals—valued at NGN 37.8 million over the period, with an average of 1.33 million traded shares per session. A volume high of 7.57 million was achieved on June 11th, and a low of 17,113 on May 27th, for the same period.
READ ALSO:Airtel Africa, WAPCO, Dangote Sugar top list of stocks to watch this week
JBERGER • 97.00 ▴ 4.50 (4.86%)
The current share price of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc (JBERGER) is NGN 97.00. JBERGER closed its last trading day (Friday, July 26, 2024) at 97.00 NGN per share on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NGX), recording a 4.9% gain over its previous closing price of 92.50 NGN. Julius Berger began the year with a share price of 43.00 NGN and has since gained 126% on that price valuation, ranking it fourth on the NGX in terms of year-to-date performance.
Julius Berger Nigeria is the 60th most traded stock on the Nigerian Stock Exchange over the past three months (Apr 25 – Jul 26, 2024). JBERGER has traded a total volume of 48.5 million shares—in 4,537 deals—valued at NGN 4.06 billion over the period, with an average of 769,251 traded shares per session. A volume high of 17.6 million was achieved on May 23rd, and a low of 12,252 on July 11th, for the same period.
OANDO • 20.35 ▴ 1.85 (10%)
The current share price of Oando Plc (OANDO) is NGN 20.35. OANDO closed its last trading day (Friday, July 26, 2024) at 20.35 NGN per share on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NGX), recording a 10% gain over its previous closing price of 18.50 NGN. Oando began the year with a share price of 10.50 NGN and has since gained 93.8% on that price valuation, ranking it eighth on the NGX in terms of year-to-date performance. Shareholders can be optimistic about OANDO knowing the stock has accrued 36% over the past four-week period alone—second best on NGX.
Oando is the 15th most traded stock on the Nigerian Stock Exchange over the past three months (Apr 25 – Jul 26, 2024). OANDO has traded a total volume of 747 million shares—in 17,180 deals—valued at NGN 11.3 billion over the period, with an average of 11.9 million traded shares per session. A volume high of 73 million was achieved on July 26th, and a low of 1.43 million on May 24th, for the same period.
UACN • 15.80 ▾ 0.15 (0.94%)
The current share price of UAC of Nigeria (UACN) is NGN 15.80. UACN closed its last trading day (Friday, July 26, 2024) at 15.80 NGN per share on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NGX), recording a 0.9% drop from its previous closing price of 15.95 NGN. UAC began the year with a share price of 12.85 NGN and has since gained 23% on that price valuation, ranking it 35th on the NGX in terms of year-to-date performance.
UAC of Nigeria is the 27th most traded stock on the Nigerian Stock Exchange over the past three months (Apr 25 – Jul 26, 2024). UACN has traded a total volume of 167 million shares—in 3,418 deals—valued at NGN 2.45 billion over the period, with an average of 2.65 million traded shares per session. A volume high of 46.4 million was achieved on June 27th, and a low of 34,930 on May 31st, for the same period.
By: Babajide Okeowo
The post SOVRENINS, Julius Berger , Oando UACN, others top list of stocks to watch this week appeared first on Latest Nigeria News | Top Stories from TVN.
Presidency affirms Nigerians’ right to peaceful protest
The presidency has reiterated that citizens have the right to peaceful protests.
The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President, Ajuri Ngelale, made the clarification during a TVC programme, Politics on Sunday with Femi Akande.
.
He said President Bola Tinubu‘s administration is committed to serving the people, not dominating them.
He was reacting to concerns about the government’s stance on planned protests slated for August 1-10.
READ ALSO:Lawyer urges NCC to probe telcos for restricting internet access, frustrating protest
Ngelale said: “Let me be clear: we are not in office to dominate our people; we are here to serve them.” He emphasized that no organ of the administration has the authority to prevent Nigerians from exercising their right to peaceful protest.
The presidential aide acknowledged fears of potential hijack of the protests, similar to the #EndSARS movement in 2020, but reassured citizens that the administration is committed to protecting their rights.
Ngelale also highlighted President Tinubu’s dedication to putting Nigeria on a sound economic footing despite inheriting liabilities from the previous administration.
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Industry expert, Chinedu Nwokeoma proffers solutions to global energy challenges
Mr Chinedu Nwokeoma, an energy expert with several years of industry experience has proffered solutions to global energy challenges.
Leveraging on his high-level experience in the Oil & Gas industry, Chinedu in an interview with journalists said the prosperity and the growth of the industry will depend entirely on addressing the lingering problems of Net-zero upstream operations, aging equipment, skill shortages, price volatility, strict environmental regulations, and negative industry perception.
He said reviving the industry means tackling the problems of “Net-zero upstream operations, aging equipment, skill shortages, price volatility, strict environmental regulations, and negative industry perception.”
He went further to state that technological innovation, strategic planning, and investment in talent development and sustainable practices will help tackle the aforementioned problems.
Speaking on his career journey so far, he said, “I currently serve as the Business Unit Manager at SPIE OGS, focusing on maintenance contract management in the Oil & Gas sector. My expertise lies in overseeing interdisciplinary projects and ensuring the optimal performance and safety of critical assets.
“As a young project manager, I was captivated by the potential of the energy sector to enhance global energy provision sustainably. The high-stakes engineering challenges and operational intricacies of Oil & Gas fascinated me, propelling me to become deeply involved in this dynamic industry.
“My approach is grounded in comprehensive management skills honed over years in the energy sector. I emphasize proactive strategies like predictive maintenance and innovative technologies to optimize asset performance and longevity.”
Giving other perspectives and solutions, he said: “Clean energy demand is paramount, alongside the push for renewables and the need to provide energy to a growing global population sustainably. Additionally, leveraging data for enhanced production efficiency is becoming increasingly critical.”
Highlighting some of his projects, Chinedu said, “Currently, I’m leading initiatives like the de-carbonization of FPSO infrastructure, monitoring gas flares closely through KPIs, and implementing lean and remote maintenance strategies using predictive analytics.
“I’m particularly excited about advancements in clean energy generation, de-carbonization technologies for recovering flared gases, and the ongoing evolution of maintenance strategies that optimize equipment performance and reliability,” he said.
It has been observed that in the bustling world of energy sector maintenance, a few names stand out. Chinedu Nwokeoma is said to be one of them. With over 14 years of experience in managing complex projects within the Oil & Gas industry, Chinedu has not only witnessed but actively shaped the evolution of maintenance contract management.
Industry expert, Chinedu Nwokeoma proffers solutions to global energy challenges
Ndi Nne pair wins first custodian of house challenge
Ndinne pair of the Big Brother Naija Season Nine show has emerged winner of the first custodian challenge.
The duo won the challenge held on Sunday night when 14 pairs of 28 housemates got into the house.
With this, the pair are automatically exempted from possible eviction in the first week of the “No Loose Guard” edition
The Ndinne pair has also been empowered to influence nominations for possible eviction in the first week as well.
The duo was decorated with the custodian badge and given the custodian box, while they await further instruction from Biggie.
The challenge involved the 28 housemates picking a representative from each of the pairs, while the 14 representatives picked were made to pick plastic bottles hidden inside a pool of water.
Nneamaka, who represented the Ndinne duo, was able to pick the desired bottle with the custodian badge.
The housemates include an interesting line-up of a couple, two sets of identical twins, an aunt and a niece, and close-knit friends.
The housemates are in the house battling it out for the N100m winning prize.
The show is expected to run for 10 weeks.
NAN
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Kenneth Okonkwo my brother, a trusted ally – Obi
The Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has refused to criticise the former spokesman of the presidential campaign council, Kenneth Okonkwo, despite the latter”s exit from the party.
Obi, who reacted to Okonkwo’s decision to leave the party, also cautioned his supporters popularly called ‘Obidients’ against attacking the actor over his personal opinions.
Okonkwo announced his resignation from LP on Sunday.
He also called out Obi for lacking the leadership capacity to resolve the lingering crisis in the party.
In a series of posts on his X account on Monday morning, he described Okonkwo as a trusted ally.
He said Okonkwo was entitled to his opinion and that does not make him an enemy but rather a strong voice and friend.
Obi wrote: “Yesterday, I read my dear brother Kenneth Okonkwo’s open letter in which he expressed differing views with me on the skirmishes in our party. And today, I saw various responses to the letter.
READ ALSO:‘You are a traitor,’ Netizens tackle Kenneth Okonkwo for dumping Obi
“I want to, therefore, categorically and emphatically declare that Okonkwo remains my beloved brother and a trusted ally. I sternly caution against referring to him as a mole or making any negative remarks.
“Kenneth Okonkwo has stood by me through thick and thin, and his loyalty and commitment cannot be overstated or diminished.
“Disagreements and differing opinions are a natural part of any group, society, or movement, and it is essential to maintain a level of respect and decorum even when we disagree.
“Having differing views does not make someone an enemy, and it is crucial to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to personal attacks or negative remarks.
“In fact, to me personally, I don’t want to work with anyone who always agrees with me, because as a leader, learning and listening are critical components of leadership. I want to listen to those who have different opinions and try to convince them otherwise or take their advice if it is better.
“I urge all believers of a New Nigeria to remain strong, resilient, and focused, and to refrain from discouragement or negative remarks towards Barrister Kenneth Okonkwo or anyone who leaves or disagrees with our views, strategies, or tactics. My message is clear and simple: unity, respect, and civility must prevail, even in the face of disagreement and variance.”
Yesterday, I read my dear brother Kenneth Okonkwo's open letter in which he expressed differing views with me on the skirmishes in our party. And today I saw various responses to the letter.
— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) July 28, 2024
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Victim under pressure to drop police station rape case — Family
A relative of the 17-year-old girl who was allegedly raped by a police officer at the Ogudu Area H Command, identified only as Anderson, has accused the suspect’s family of pressuring the survivor’s mother, Aramida Olupona, to forgive the accused officer.
Anderson revealed this information to our correspondent during a phone interview on Saturday.
Recall that during a telephone interview with City Round on Friday, the mother of the teenager, Olupona, said, “Officer Owolabi is supposed to have been charged to court by now, what are they waiting for? What are they covering up?
“Now, it’s more than a week and there has been silence from the police. We have not heard from them since then. We want more than a query given to this officer, the police need to be transparent and hold one of their own accountable for his actions.
“They said they are conducting an investigation, what has come out of it? They are trying to shield the officer, but Nigerians are waiting. In fact, the whole of Africa and the rest of the world are waiting for the next step that the police will take.”
The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, on Friday, also said the command was awaiting the medical report of the test conducted on the minor.
“The accused policeman is currently under detention. We are waiting for the medical report; a medical report in an alleged case of rape is very vital; it is a determinant factor and that is what we are waiting for. But the policeman has been issued a query,” Fayoade said.
This, however, contradicts a text message received by our correspondent after inquiring about the progress of the police investigation.
In response to our correspondent’s inquiry on Thursday, the spokesperson for the command shared a link to a publication by The According, revealing that the police had received the medical report.
According to the report, Hundeyin said the medical examination had been concluded and handed over to the police for onward investigation.
“The test result. It has been handed over to the police and the investigation has continued,” Hundeyin had said.
Though the findings of the medical reports were not disclosed, Hundeyin added, “There will be another update in no distant time.”
While lamenting that the police were trying to sweep the matter under the rug, Anderson, a close family relative of the victim, said Olupona, the minor’s mother, had been subjected to intense pressure from the family members of the accused police officer.
According to him, Olupona’s son (name withheld), who revealed the incident on social media, had been advised to stay away from the area due to fears of being harmed after the alleged crime went viral.
“The police officer and his colleague frequented the minor’s mother’s shop. We never knew that he had such an intention against our daughter. The officer lives inside the police barracks in the area while the survivor, her brother and mother have a shop just outside the police barracks.
“We have begged her (survivor’s mother) to stay away from the shop for the time being. But she insisted that she would not leave her means of livelihood for anything. The brother who made the incident go viral has also been instructed to leave the town for his security.
“Now, the family members of the police officer have been going to her shop to beg. I already told her that she should leave the shop if she can no longer handle the pressure.”
The accused officer allegedly raped the teenager when she went to the station to report a stolen phone. To this day, the command has failed to officially reveal the officer’s identity.
Wike mobilises youths against hunger protest
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is mobilising Abuja youths and other stakeholders against joining the planned August 1 to 10 nationwide protests over hunger and hardship.
Speaking during a ministerial engagement with FCT youths from Abuja South Federal Constituency, in Kwali Area Council of the FCT on Sunday, Wike said, ”Youths and other stakeholders in Bwari and Gwagwalada Area Councils will also be engaged on the same issue in the coming days.”
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that a similar interaction was held with stakeholders in Abuja Municipal Area Council, in Abuja on Saturday.
The minister explained that the interaction was to enlighten them on the ills of protest and why they should not be part of it.
He thanked the traditional rulers and the area council chairmen for mobilising FCT youths for the interaction to enlighten them against joining a protest they do not have a stake in.
“There is no need for the protest. The current administration is barely one year in office and not enough to assess its performance.
“You can’t judge leadership within one year. I have not been in office for up to a year, but I have done so much that should be appreciated and convince people that FCT is working,” he said.
The minister said that so much has been achieved in education, health and other sectors, particularly security.
He urged residents to commend and encourage the security agencies to do more, adding that it would be unfair not to do so.
“It is not fair to say we have not done anything on insecurity when we have improved security in FCT,” he said.
He said that in view of the current development in the FCT, what was desired was peace and not protest.
“We want peace in FCT and so, we cannot fold our hands and allow it to be destroyed in the guise of protest,” Wike said.
On the proposed Federal Capital Territory University of Science and Technology, Abaji, the minister said that efforts were on top gear to ensure that the university was one of the best in the country.
“I don’t want to set up a glorified university. I want to put up a university that we will all be proud to have and gladly tell the world that this is the university I attended.
“We are currently on procurement to build classrooms; to build lecture theatres and laboratories for the university,” he said.
Speaking on land matters, the minister said, “The problem of Abuja is land. Once you’re made a minister, it is as if you are coming to share land.
“Nobody talks about development. Everybody is land, land, land, land, land. I feel so bad. Each time I am in my office, when 20 people come to see me,18 will talk about land.
“Nobody will talk about infrastructure; nobody will talk about no hospitals; nobody will talk about no schools, everything is, I need 20 hectares of land and I say, ‘if you carry all this land, where will the indigenous people stay?”
Wike urged youths to cooperate with the current government and stay away from the planned protests organised by people whose agenda was not so clear.
NAN