News
Enugu Govt Reaffirms Commitment to Business-Friendly Environment, Denounces Emission Levies
The Enugu State Government has reiterated its dedication to creating a stable and supportive business environment while addressing concerns over the collection of industrial gas emission levies. The Governor Peter Mbah Administration has ordered the refund of any levies collected and condemned reports claiming the government imposed fines on renewable energy sources like solar.
A statement released on Wednesday by Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, the Secretary to the State Government, clarified the situation. The statement addressed recent reports about levies on alternative energy sources being collected by consultants from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.
“The government has directed that the collection of such levies be halted immediately,” the statement read. “Although the Environmental Protection Act authorizes the Ministry to regulate gaseous emissions, all actions must follow due process.”
The statement criticized the consulting firm responsible for the levies for not adhering to the proper procedures, resulting in the premature implementation of these fees. The government emphasized that the cancellation of these levies underscores its commitment to proper oversight and a supportive business climate.
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change is working to resolve issues for businesses affected by these levies. Businesses that have been asked to make payments related to these levies are advised to report such requests to the Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change for immediate action.
The Enugu State Government remains dedicated to balancing environmental efforts with economic growth and appreciates the support and vigilance of its business community.
News
TCN Acknowledges 7th Grid Collapse in 2024
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has reported its seventh partial grid collapse in 2024. Despite the recurring issue, TCN’s General Manager of Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, reassured the public that efforts to restore power are well underway, with about 90% of substations receiving bulk power.
Mbah noted that the Azura Power Station initiated the grid recovery, although a minor setback occurred. However, power supply has been restored to the Abuja region and other key distribution centers. The Ibom Gas Generating Station remained unaffected, continuing to supply power to the South-South region.
An investigation into the cause of the collapse will commence once full grid restoration is achieved.
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Jigawa Tanker Tragedy: Shettima, First Lady Mourn Victims, Pledge Federal Support
Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic tanker explosion in Jigawa State, which claimed over 100 lives. In a statement issued by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, extended condolences to the affected families, praying for strength and comfort in their time of grief.
Shettima assured the public that the federal government is mobilizing resources to support the injured and assist those affected. He has directed the immediate deployment of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide aid. The Vice President also stressed the need for a review of fuel transportation safety protocols to prevent future incidents.
In a separate statement, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu offered her condolences to Jigawa Governor Umar Namadi and the people of Jigawa, praying for peace and comfort for the families affected. She called the incident “unfortunate” and extended prayers for the recovery of the injured and the repose of the souls lost in the tragedy.
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Nigeria Customs Intercepts Arms, Ammunition Worth N9.5bn Over Six Years
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has revealed that it intercepted a total of 10,598 pieces of arms and 114,929 rounds of ammunition valued at N9.58 billion over the past six years. Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, made this disclosure during a press conference on enforcement activities in Zone A.
Adeniyi highlighted that 60% of these seizures occurred in 2023, reflecting the Customs’ increased efforts to curb arms smuggling. He also mentioned that recent operations such as Operation Whirlwind and Operation Swift Sting are part of a strategic response to tackle evolving smuggling tactics.
In addition to arms seizures, the Customs CG announced the largest pangolin scale seizure since 2020, with 9,493 kg of scales confiscated in collaboration with the Wildlife Justice Commission. The joint operation led to four arrests across Kano, Kaduna, and Lagos. The NCS continues to intensify efforts against wildlife trafficking, targeting supply routes in northern Nigeria and border areas.
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