News
Prioritise Edo’s Development, Tinubu Tells Okpebholo
President Bola Tinubu has called on Edo State governor-elect, Monday Okpebholo, to prioritize the development of the state, assuring him of full support from the Federal Government and the Progressive Governors’ Forum. Tinubu gave this advice during a meeting with the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) after Okpebholo and his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, presented their certificates of return.
Tinubu emphasized the importance of delivering good governance to the people, stating, “Governor-elect, you can now face the task of development. We are here to work with you. You have seen the progressive governors of APC. They are truly progressive. Work with them. Learn the ropes.”
Acknowledging the challenges of democracy, especially in emerging economies like Nigeria, the President added, “You have earned the victory. Democracy is difficult, but it remains the best form of government.”
The President praised the collaboration between Okpebholo and Idahosa, noting, “You started as rivals and ended up as partners. You are a symbol of good understanding in politics.”
Tinubu also commended the role played by former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, the APC leadership, and the progressive governors in securing victory in the Edo gubernatorial election. He highlighted the peaceful conduct of the election, thanking the security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for their efforts.
In his remarks, APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje noted the significance of the heavy downpour on Election Day, yet voters showed their commitment by casting their ballots without umbrellas. Ganduje also stated that the party is now focusing on upcoming elections in Ondo and Anambra, particularly seeking to expand APC’s influence in the Southeast geopolitical zone.
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.
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.
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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