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RMRDC DG Hails Shea Nuts Ban, Insists Raw Materials Should Not Be Exported Without 30% Value Addition 

RMRDC DG Hails Shea Nuts Ban, Insists Raw Materials Should Not Be Exported Without 30% Value Addition 

*Council initiatives mechanisms to ensure ban achieves intended goals

*NASPAN urges FG to prevail on N’Assembly to urgently pass shea council law

*Seeks adoption of shea tree for climate management programmes

Ndubuisi Francis and James Emejo in Abuja

The Director General/Chief Executive, Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Prof. Nnanyelugo Martin Ike-Muonso, has commended the federal government’s recent six-month ban on raw shea nuts export.

President Bola Tinubu approved a temporary ban on the export of raw shea nuts to curb informal trade, boost local processing, protect and grow the country’s shea industry.

The ban, is however, subject to review on expiration and specifically aimed at boosting the shea value chain to generate about $300 million annually in the short term.

This came as as the National Association of Shea Products of Nigeria (NASPAN), also urged the federal government to prevail on the National Assembly to immediately pass into law, the National Council on Shea initiated by the 9th Assembly to provide appropriate governance and policy direction  for the sector.

NASPAN, which is the umbrella body for actors in the country’s shea value chain,

stated that for continuous growth and to sustain Nigeria’s advantage of accounting for about 58 per cent of total world stock of shea trees, the federal government should adopt the shea tree for its various climate management programmes in states within the shea belt.

However, speaking at a media briefing in Abuja, over the weekend, Ike-Muonso, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to play its statutory role to support the actualisation of the objectives of the ban.

He noted that since his assumption of office, he had been advocating that raw materials should not be exported without adding at least 30 per cent value to them. 

He said the council also submitted a bill on the proposed policy to the National Assembly – which had passed third reading in the Senate, as well as gone through first reading in the House of Representatives.

The RMRDC chief executive said the federal government’s ban on shea nut exports was a “stamp on the goal we have been pursuing, because it is in the overall interest of the country”.

He said one of the immediate impacts of the federal government’s ban was Niger State’s offer of 10,000 hectares of land for shea plantations, adding that once developed, the country could become the world’s largest producer of shea nuts and derivatives.

He said, “Every Nigerian knows that instead of exporting volumes of raw materials, we should be exporting semi-processed or fully processed materials. That is what creates employment, strengthens our currency, and boosts our economy.

“When the federal government came up with this six-month suspension, we saw it as a test period. The question was: if it doesn’t succeed in the first six months, what happens? 

“For us at RMRDC, this is a challenge. This conference is to reassure Nigerians that, working together with the presidency, we will make this succeed and succeed properly.”

He stated that from RMRDC’s earlier studies, about one million metric tonnes of shea nuts are available from 21 states of the federation though existing data suggest about 350,000 tonnes.

He said over 90 per cent of the shea nut output is exported raw.

According to him, the export restrictions of raw shea nut was “not just a ban—it is a clarion call for Nigeria to stop exporting poverty and start exporting prosperity.”

He stressed that the council stands ready to drive the process, leveraging its statutory mandate, technical expertise, nationwide presence, and partnerships.

He said, “We are present in all 36 states, and all our coordinating offices are mobilised to ensure this decision achieves its objectives. 

“We invite all stakeholders to align with this vision so that within the six-month suspension window, Nigeria will emerge not as a supplier of raw shea, but as a global hub for shea value addition.”

Ike-Muonso, said, “The global demand for shea is very high, yet we have been throwing away opportunities by exporting raw shea nuts instead of adding value. This means losing potential foreign exchange and local jobs.

“Yesterday (Wednesday), in preparation for this event, we visited Salid Agriculture Nigeria Limited – the new shea nut refinery located in Kudu, Mokwa Local Government Area, Niger State.

“That is currently the biggest shea processing plant in Nigeria. Another one is coming up in Kwara, alongside smaller-scale processors, though their quality may not match the fully automated refinery. 

“The new facility has a production capacity of about 30 metric tonnes per day.

But the question is: how will one plant alone handle Nigeria’s entire shea nut output? That is why we must act strategically.”

The RMRDC boss also noted that the shea nuts ban didnt happen in a vacuum, stressing that the council had provided a groundwork to safeguard the sector. 

He said, “The presidency would not have simply woken up to make this pronouncement. There is groundwork, and RMRDC has played a critical role.”

He explained that the council had in 2019 published the strategic roadmap for the shea industry which was adequately contained in the publication titled, “Strategies for Transforming the Nigerian Shea Value”, a copy which was presented to THISDAY. 

The book, developed in collaboration with stakeholders, presented a five-year roadmap for the transformation of the entire shea value chain.

Among other initiatives, he said the council worked to upgrade indigenous technologies for shea processing, particularly for women cooperatives. 

According to him, RMRDC also had extensive capabilities in machine and technology development for raw material processing – help local women upgrade technologies for shea processing. 

He said, “Going forward, we plan to intensify production of such technologies across the 21 shea-producing states.”

He also revealed the council’s next line of action in the next six months.

The RMRDC boss said it will lead stakeholders to review the expired five-year roadmap to ensure adequate supply for processors.

The council will also conduct a nationwide mapping of shea trees—quantities, qualities, and varieties—since shea from Kwara differs from that in Sokoto, each with unique advantages. 

He said the mapping will guide investors, noting that preparations are underway with researchers and enumerators across the 21 producing states.

He also stated that the council will launch women’s cooperatives nationwide to improve collection and small-scale processing, to further ensure quality, safety, and access to finance through cooperative structures.

Ike-Muonso, also said it would work with government and agencies to deploy processing equipment at cluster levels, enabling smallholder operators to participate in the industry as well as support for shea plantations.

He said, “Beyond Niger’s 10,000 hectares, we will encourage other states to allocate land for shea plantations.

“We have developed a system to provide regular updates on capacity utilisation, jobs created, and foreign exchange saved, in order to encourage further supportive policies.

“Together, let us turn this bold decision into lasting transformation for our people, our economy, and our nation.”

Meanwhile, addressing journalists in Abuja, NASPAN President, Mohammed Ahmed Kontagora, the association also applauded the federal government’s ban on the export of shea nuts, and articulated its response to the development while offering insights and suggestions on policy harmonisation/implementation.

He maintained that although the six-month export ban was announced suddenly during the peak of seasonal transactions in shea nut harvest, processing, and trading, the step was a welcome decision that NASPAN fully supports. 

“It represents a paradigm shift in the regulation of shea resources, with the official integration of a critical economic product of wide domestic benefit and high export value. 

“The grounds of the ban—including boosting local processing capacity, curbing informal trade, job creation, rural economic transformation, sustainability for women pickers, and resource optimisation—are valid and justifiable, with tremendous potential for national economic growth,” he said.

On the policy impact, NASPAN noted that apart from the informed reasons already well articulated by the federal government, the ban can stem local price volatility as actors in the value chain review emerging realities to explore ways in which the policy enhances mutually beneficial trade relationships.

” Integrating shea into the Nigerian Commodity Exchange platform will also foster price stability, transparency and fair returns to farmers, women pickers, and processors.

“The policy signifies government’s readiness to formalize  shea trading and curtail informal trading, with huge economic losses arising from  undocumented cross-border trading, smuggling, and black-market practices.

“The new policy direction presents the opportunity to assess the capacity of local processors to establish the gap between their requirements, shortfalls or excesses that could be considered for export,” the association said.

He listed critical success factors of the six-month ban on export of shea nuts by the federal government.

“To achieve the desired impact, ensuring alignment with national goals and advancing the interest of actors across the value chain, we propose the following, but not limited actions:

“The Nigerian Customs Service should ensure effective policing of all borders, to avoid further perpetration of illegal trading.

“To ensure a coordinated oversight there is an urgent need for the creation of a Shea Marketing Board to regulate shea trading, particularly the prescription of minimum and maximum guaranteed  price  at the beginning of each trading season.

“A shea sector grant should be introduced to support existing and verified processors in expanding their offtake capacity from aggregators. 

“Development support should also include equipment grants, incentives, and capacity-building programs to strengthen local processing and competitiveness

“The Federal Government should  prevail on the National Assembly to immediately pass into law, the National Council on Shea initiated in the 9th National Assembly, providing appropriate governance and policy direction  for the sector

“For continuous growth, and to maintain the advantage that Nigeria has in holding about 58% of total world stock of shea trees, according to  a report of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) in 2005, the Federal Government should adopt the shea tree for its various climate management programs in states within the shea belt. 

“We urge the Federal Government to expedite interventions, funding, and resource direction towards Shea parkland regeneration and restoration, ensuring long-term sustainability and increased productivity. 

“This will not only ensure stability in the shea market but position Nigeria as the shea hub for domestic and international supplies,” NASPAN noted. 

NASPAN stated that its Shea Parkland Restoration and Afforestation Programme (SPARE), an initiative to plant 10 million shea trees over the next ten years, offers government the lynchpin for accelerating shea tree multiplication and sustained sectoral growth and national advantage. 

It urged the federal government to adopt this programme as part of strategic plan for shea resources and policy consolidation.

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*Council initiatives mechanisms to ensure ban achieves intended goals *NASPAN urges FG to prevail on N’Assembly to urgently pass shea council law *Seeks adoption of shea tree for climate management
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After Six Years, Court Clears First Nation CEO, Odukoya of Fraud Allegations

After Six Years, Court Clears First Nation CEO, Odukoya of Fraud Allegations

Wale Igbintade

After six years of standing trial, the Chief Executive Officer of First Nation Airways Limited, Mr. Kayode Odukoya, has been discharged and acquitted of all fraud-related charges by the Lagos State Special Offences High Court.

Delivering judgment, Justice Mojisola Dada held that the EFCC failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt, noting the prosecution’s evidence, including a disputed “Memorandum of Loss” was riddled with inconsistencies.

The court declared that the case “collapsed like a pack of cards,” dismissing all counts against Odukoya and his company.

The trial judge described the EFCC’s case as having “collapsed like a pack of cards” due to unreliable and inadmissible evidence.

Odukoya was arraigned alongside First Nation Airways on allegations of fraud, forgery, stealing, and using a falsified document, charges he consistently denied. 

The prosecution’s case largely hinged on a disputed “Memorandum of Loss of Certificate of Occupancy” allegedly used to obtain credit facilities.

Justice Dada held that the EFCC did not present sufficient evidence to substantiate the allegations. 

She observed that the purported document relied upon by the commission was not properly certified, lacked proof of receipt by any bank, and contained only photocopies without authentication. 

“The totality of the prosecution’s case rests on quicksand,” the judge declared, concluding that the defendants were entitled to an acquittal.

Reacting in a statement, First Nation Airways accused the EFCC of weaponising a commercial disagreement with Polaris Bank into a criminal trial. 

The airline described the case as “a misuse of regulatory power,” alleging that the bank instigated a malicious petition to the anti-graft agency after inflating the company’s loan book. 

It noted that a forensic audit by a Big Four accounting firm, jointly appointed with Polaris Bank, had vindicated its position.

“The EFCC diverted from its mandate of investigating genuine economic crimes and escalated a contractual dispute into a sensational criminal trial,” the company said. 

“This episode is a stark reminder of the dangers of conflating civil disputes with criminal conduct.”

Odukoya further lamented the reputational damage caused by what he termed an “intense media trial,” stressing that the EFCC had yet to update its website months after the acquittal. 

“For years we were portrayed in a narrative that undermined our professional integrity. This judgment confirms there was never a basis for the allegations,” he stated.

Calling for reforms, the airline urged the Attorney-General of the Federation, regulators, and industry stakeholders to ensure that civil disputes are not criminalised in the future.

“True accountability requires distinguishing between genuine criminal behaviour and contractual disagreements,” it added.

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Wale Igbintade After six years of standing trial, the Chief Executive Officer of First Nation Airways Limited, Mr. Kayode Odukoya, has been discharged and acquitted of all fraud-related charges by
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Gas Flaring: Carbon Offset to Address Crime, Violence in N’Delta

Gas Flaring: Carbon Offset to Address Crime, Violence in N’Delta

Linus Aleke in Abuja 

The Country Director of the Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN), Florence Kayemba, at the weekend revealed that carbon offset initiatives have the potential to address some of the underlying drivers of crime and violence in the Niger Delta region.

Kayemba stated this at the National Dissemination of the Carbon Offset Study Report and Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue, funded by the European Union, which was held in Abuja.

The central theme of the programme was: “From Degradation to Regeneration: Local Solutions for Carbon Offsetting in the Niger Delta, Community-Centred Approach to Transforming Criminality & Violence in the Niger Delta.”

Kayemba said the project was aimed at reducing crime and violence in the Niger Delta region, stating that the multi-stakeholder dialogue was important to the region.

She said: “As an organisation that has worked in the Niger Delta for over 20 years, we have seen the scars of gas flaring, oil spills, and other types of pollution that continue to pervade our region. 

“These have affected livelihoods, contributed to unemployment, and also to crime and violence, which—if we are honest—continue to be on the rise.”

Speaking earlier, the host and Acting Country Director of Search for Common Ground (SCG), Karno Ouattara, stated that a recent study by the University of Port Harcourt on carbon offsets has illuminated how carbon market opportunities can be harnessed not only to reduce emissions, but also to create alternative livelihoods, restore ecosystems, and strengthen community resilience.

He also stated that by aligning carbon offset strategies with the aspirations of local communities, the initiative ensures that environmental solutions also serve as peacebuilding tools—breaking the cycle of ecological harm, economic exclusion, and conflict, and paving the way for a greener, safer, and more prosperous Niger Delta.

Ouattara noted that the initiative aligns with the European Union-funded Community-Centred Approach to transforming criminality and violence in the Niger Delta. He stressed that the national dialogue and dissemination forum builds directly on state and regional dialogues already convened across the Niger Delta.

He said: “We are truly delighted to see such a diverse gathering of policymakers, practitioners, researchers, private sector actors, community leaders, and development partners – all united by a common purpose: to find inclusive and sustainable solutions to the complex challenges facing the Niger Delta.

“The Niger Delta is a paradox of Africa’s abundance and adversity. While it remains one of the richest regions in terms of natural resource endowment, decades of gas flaring, oil spills, artisanal refining, and unsustainable extraction practices have left communities grappling with environmental degradation, loss of livelihoods, and worsening health challenges.

“Today, we take the next step – to disseminate the findings of the scoping study, to integrate state and regional insights into national strategies, to foster consensus and collective ownership of carbon offset mechanisms, and to promote people-centred solutions that prioritise both environmental resilience and peace.”

The Programme Manager at the European Foreign Policy Institute, Dakar, Mr Eric Pitos, said the purpose of the discussion was to examine how the insights from the study can inform policy, guide investment, and strengthen cooperation at national, regional, and global levels.

The EU, he said, remains firmly committed to the Paris Agreement and to the path towards climate neutrality by 2050.

“With the European Green Deal, we have shown that economic growth and emissions reductions go hand in hand. Since 1990, our emissions have fallen by 37 per cent, while our economy has grown by around 70 per cent.

“This demonstrates that decarbonisation is not only possible, but is also a driver of competitiveness, resilience, and prosperity. Carbon pricing is at the heart of the green transition,” he said.

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Linus Aleke in Abuja  The Country Director of the Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN), Florence Kayemba, at the weekend revealed that carbon offset initiatives have the potential to address some of the
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Malnutrition: UNICEF Stresses Need for States’ Urgent, Sustained Investment in Child Nutrition, Survival

Malnutrition: UNICEF Stresses Need for States’ Urgent, Sustained Investment in Child Nutrition, Survival

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi 

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has stressed the need for urgent and sustained investment in child nutrition and health to tackle malnutrition as well as addressing life-threatening maternal and newborn emergencies towards enhancing child survival and well-being 

Similarly, it also called on the governments of Bauchi and Plateau States to step up efforts towards tackling child malnutrition by releasing more funds for nutrition, investing in local food solutions, and expanding community-driven initiatives already saving lives.

The new UNICEF Representative in Nigeria, Ms. Wafaa Saeed, made the call in a press release issued yesterday following her visits to both states, where she met with government officials, traditional rulers, mothers, fathers, and children to discuss collective action for child survival and wellbeing.

According to her, “If governments, communities, and partners come together for children and act with urgency and unity, we can give every child in Nigeria the chance not just to survive, but to truly thrive”.

While in Plateau, Ms. Saeed commended the state government’s commitment to children, highlighting its investment in the Child Nutrition Fund (CNF) which led to the procurement of over 5,300 cartons of nutrition supplements for 15,000 children.

She, however, noted that nearly half of children under five remain stunted, stressing the need for quick release of pledged funds and investments in locally available nutritious foods to strengthen growth.

Meanwhile, in Bauchi State, Ms. Saeed engaged Governor Bala Mohammed on strengthening healthcare and education, while also commending efforts to expand newborn care, renovate primary healthcare centres, and scale up investment in child-friendly services.

She observed the dedication of community groups, including “Fathers for Good Health, spreading health messages, women supporting each other in Mama2Mama groups, and traditional leaders taking active roles in improving child wellbeing.

“The passion and commitment of these groups, especially the women, left me deeply inspired,” she noted.

At a nutrition facility in Bauchi, Ms. Saeed met children battling severe acute malnutrition, “Holding their tiny hands and seeing the pain in their eyes was a stark reminder that behind every statistic is a child, a mother’s hope, and a father’s dream. No child should suffer this way. Their survival depends on the choices and actions we take now, not tomorrow,” she said.

Ms. Saeed further commended Bauchi State’s release of ₦300 million to the UNICEF-managed CNF, which will be matched, thereby expanding access to lifesaving nutrition interventions for vulnerable children.

According to her, Plateau and Bauchi states have demonstrated what is possible when leadership, communities and partners unite for children, urging other states to release funds and scale up local solutions.

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Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi  The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has stressed the need for urgent and sustained investment in child nutrition and health to tackle malnutrition as well as
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Tinubu Rejoices with Shettima, Others on Emergence as Fellows of Nigerian Economic Society 

Tinubu Rejoices with Shettima, Others on Emergence as Fellows of Nigerian Economic Society 

–         Lauds VP for relentless dedication to implementing govt’s policies

Deji Elumoye in Abuja 

President Bola Tinubu has felicitated Vice President Kashim Shettima and other distinguished Nigerians on their conferment as Fellows of the Nigerian Economic Society (NES), recognising their outstanding contributions to economic policy, research, and development.

The President, in a release issued on Sunday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, noted the conferment on Monday, September 8, is a testament to their exemplary service, intellectual depth, and commitment to advancing Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation.

He commended Shettima for his visionary leadership, deep insights, and relentless dedication to implementing the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in driving inclusive growth, job creation, and sustainable development.

President Tinubu equally applauded renowned economist and director of the Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four on International Monetary Affairs and Development (G-24), Dr. Iyabo Masha, on the honour.

Masha was a member of Nigeria’s eight-person Presidential Economic Advisory Council (2019-2022), which directly advised President Muhammadu Buhari on economic policy.

The President described their recognition as well-deserved and an inspiration to upcoming economists, researchers, and policy experts across the country.

“As a nation, we are proud of your achievements and the example you set for current and future generations.

“Your passion, innovation, and service to the nation’s economic progress embody the spirit of excellence that our administration celebrates and upholds,” President Tinubu affirmed.

President Tinubu urged the new Fellows to continue leveraging their expertise to support Nigeria’s economic recovery, foster inclusive prosperity, and strengthen its global competitiveness.

He assured them of his administration’s determination to collaborate with experts and institutions to deliver enduring growth and shared opportunities for all Nigerians.

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–         Lauds VP for relentless dedication to implementing govt’s policies Deji Elumoye in Abuja  President Bola Tinubu has felicitated Vice President Kashim Shettima and other distinguished Nigerians on their conferment as
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Expert Warns against Catastrophe in Power Market as Senate Amends Electricity Act 2023 Two Years after 

Expert Warns against Catastrophe in Power Market as Senate Amends Electricity Act 2023 Two Years after 

–         Says drafted bill riddled with landmines

Peter Uzoho 

Foremost energy expert and Lead Consultant on Electricity to the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), Mr. Odion Omonfoman has called on the Nigerian Senate to thread with caution and avoid the risk of throwing the nation’s electricity market into catastrophe as the lawmakers are currently amending the Electricity Act 2023.

The Electricity Act 2023 was signed into law by President Bola Tinubu on June 8th, 2023 following the 5th Alteration of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which expressly provided full constitutional rights to State Houses of Assembly to make laws for electricity generation, transmission and distribution within their state territories. 

Omonfoman argued that while the National Assembly was well within its powers to either amend or repeal any of its Acts, and at such a time it deems necessary, the Electricity Act Amendment Bill 2005 as currently drafted, was riddled with constitutional, legal, regulatory and fiscal landmines that would be catastrophic to the Nigerian electricity sector if the bill was passed. 

In his essay entitled, “The Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill 2025 – The Need for a Cautious Rethink”, Omonfoman argued that by virtue of the 5th alteration of the constitution, the regulation of all aspects of distribution and sale of electricity within a state is an exclusive (not residual) right of State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs).

Curiously, he noted that less than two years of its passage, a bill to amend the Electricity Act has passed second reading on the floor of the Senate, sponsored by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Power, Sen. Enyinnaya Abaribe.

Based on the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025, he said several areas of potential conflict and jurisdictional overlap exist between the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and the newly empowered State Electricity Regulatory Commissions (SERCs). 

According to him, the tension primarily arises from the division of regulatory power over a national grid that services state-level markets.

Omonfoman noted that the most significant potential for conflict lies in the concept of NERC’s “overriding regulatory oversight.”

He explained that Section 230C(1)(b) of the bill states that intra-state electricity operations that rely on the national grid system remain subject to the “overriding regulatory oversight of NERC”. 

“This gives NERC direct regulatory jurisdiction over electricity distribution licensees, and any other state electricity licensee operating in SEMs where such licensee has a reliance on the national grid”, he said.

He faulted the drafted bill, saying it uses vague and ambiguous terminologies and language such as ‘reliance on the national grid system, operational codes, intra-state electricity operations, and intra-state electricity activity.

Omonfoman explained, “The term “overriding regulatory oversight” is not explicitly defined by the bill, leaving it open to broad interpretation by NERC.

“This could lead to jurisdictional disputes where a SERC believes NERC is overstepping its authority in the regulation of the state’s internal market. The ambiguous and vague terminologies are certainly not helpful to the Bill’s core objective of addressing conflict between Federal and State Regulatory Bodies.”

He observed that another area of conflict created by the bill was in tariff design and implementation for electricity distribution.

While states are empowered to establish their own electricity markets, the expert said the bill strangely allows NERC to retain significant control over tariffs for any state connected to the national grid system. 

He stated that the amended Section 2 grants State Houses of Assembly the power to legislate on their own electricity markets and regulators. 

“However, Section 230C (2) extends NERC’s overriding oversight to “tariffs designs and implementation” for any state market that is reliant on the national grid. This creates a direct conflict. A SERC could set a tariff for its local market, only for NERC to challenge or attempt to override it, citing its authority over the interconnected grid. 

“The issue between Enugu State Electricity Regulatory Commission and MainPower DisCo is a good example of such potential regulatory overreach by NERC under the amendment bill.

“The point must be made that SERCs have no authority to design and implement tariffs for generation and transmission on the national grid (national wholesale electricity market).

“For clarity and contrary to (uninformed) public opinion, EERC did not adjust wholesale generation and transmission tariffs set by NERC for Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (the HoldCo for MainPower)”, he noted.

Furthermore, Omonfoman argued that the bill defines how electricity subsidies under the Power Consumer Assistance Fund (PCAF) would be implemented. 

He, however, explained that PCAF as proposed by the bill, would distort state tariff methodologies and usurp the powers of SERCs to implement any electricity subsidies within SEMs.

He added that the amendment bill will create conflicts between federal and state regulators in implementing consumer protection within SEMs. 

According to him, the amended Section 2 lists “consumer protection and anti-trust” as an area where state laws must not conflict with the federal Act, implying NERC’s standards are supreme. 

Simultaneously, he argued that Section 230 C (2) explicitly includes consumer protection as part of NERC’s oversight for grid-connected state markets. 

He described that as a clear constitutional overreach by the bill and will lead to implementation disputes. 

For instance, he said a conflict could easily arise if a SERC attempts to implement a consumer protection regulation that NERC deems either insufficient or in conflict with national standards. 

“In any case, it is pertinent to ask which consumer is being protected here? Are these customers served by electricity distribution licensees within a SEM? Without any equivocation, implementing consumer protection regulations within a state electricity market should fall under the jurisdiction of the SERC. 

“NERC and the FCCPC may set baseline consumer protection standards, but no federal law should invalidate nor prevent State Houses of Assembly from making laws for consumer protection within their territories.

“The bill establishes a Forum of Electricity Regulators (FERs) to harmonize regulations between the NWEM and SEMs. However, the bill as drafted seeks to solidify NERC’s supremacy over SERCs under the FER structure. According to Section 228B(d), the forum serves as a platform for settling disputes…

“…I have only highlighted a few of the landmines that relate to the implementation of the SEMs. I urge the Senate and proponents of the bill to have a cautious rethink before passing the bill into law”, Omonfoman concluded. 

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–         Says drafted bill riddled with landmines Peter Uzoho  Foremost energy expert and Lead Consultant on Electricity to the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), Mr. Odion Omonfoman has called on the Nigerian
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Steel Devt’ Ministry Seeks Strengthening of NMDC, Jos to Align with FG’s Mandate 

Steel Devt’ Ministry Seeks Strengthening of NMDC, Jos to Align with FG’s Mandate 

Kasim Sumaina in Abuja 

‎The Ministry of Steel Development, has sought to ensure that National Metallurgical Development Centre’ s (NMDC) activities and programmes align with the federal government’s strategic objectives under the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Chris Osa Isokounwu, gave the hint after concluding a two-day familiarisation visit to the centre in Jos, Plateau State. 

Isokpunwu stated the visit aimed to strengthen oversight, align mandates, identify gaps, promote synergy, and generate policy inputs to drive metallurgical and industrial development in Nigeria. 

The Perm Sec in a statement, weekend in Abuja, noted his delegation received a strategic briefing on NMDC’s mandate, achievements, and current programmes. 

He stated that core research and metallurgical facilities were inspected to identify areas for improvement, critical challenges, resource gaps, and areas requiring Federal Government intervention were identified.

‎The Permanent Secretary added that collaboration between the ministry and NMDC will be strengthened to ensure alignment with national metallurgical and industrial development goals.

‎He revealed the ministry’s commitment to effective oversight and policy guidance was underscored by this visit, ensuring that NMDC’s programmes contribute to the federal government’s industrialization agenda. “This familiarisation tour is expected to yield positive outcomes for the development of Nigeria’s metallurgical sector.” he added.

‎Speaking earlier during his welcome address, the Director General/Chief Executive of the center, Engr. Prof. Linus Asuquo, said that the National Metallurgical Development Centre (NMDC) Jos, Nigeria’s premier research institution in minerals and steel development, is happy to host a landmark visit of delegation from the Ministry ably led by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Chris Osa Isokpunwu, as he (DG) during the visit, presented a comprehensive overview of NMDC’s achievements, challenges, and future plans.

Asuquo, highlighted some of the Centres’ achievement, noting: “‎We are confident that under your stewardship, NMDC will receive the needed attention to fulfill its mandate. We assure you of our unwavering cooperation and commitment as partners in the drive to revitalize Nigeria’s steel sector for the benefit of our great nation.” 

‎He added the Permanent Secretary’s visit marks a new dawn of collaboration, progress, and renewed hope for NMDC Jos and the Nigerian steel industry, as the centre looks forward to continued support and engagement with the ministry to realize its mandate as the technical driver of Nigeria’s steel and industrial development.

‎The Permanent Secretary was accompanied on the visit and tour of the facility by the Director Human Resources Management, Dr. Mrs Ijeoma Idika, other technical directors and technical aids from the ministry.

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Kasim Sumaina in Abuja  ‎The Ministry of Steel Development, has sought to ensure that National Metallurgical Development Centre’ s (NMDC) activities and programmes align with the federal government’s strategic objectives
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United Nigeria, South West Airlines Seal Agreement for Delivery of 6 Boeing B737-800 

United Nigeria, South West Airlines Seal Agreement for Delivery of 6 Boeing B737-800 

Chinedu Eze

United Nigeria Airlines, one of Africa’s fastest-growing carriers, has signed a landmark aircraft sales and purchase agreement with Southwest Airlines, the world’s largest operator of Boeing 737 and a global leader in affordable and reliable air travel, for the delivery of six Boeing 737-800 aircraft within the year.

Also, the airline will acquire an additional four Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, bringing the total to 10 between the first quarter of 2026 and the first quarter of 2027.

A press statement by United Nigeria Airlines said that this strategic fleet acquisition and expansion, which was brokered in partnership with SkyWorks Holdings, LLC., marks a new phase in the airlines’ strategic plan and growth.

SkyWorks specialize in aircraft lease origination and provides a full suite of aircraft and lease management services for airlines and investors

Speaking on this landmark expansion, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, Executive Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, said the new fleet will enable the airlines to operate new flights into approved domestic, regional and international designations, lift more passengers and cargo at competitive fares, and provide efficient point-to-point travels.

He said that this will help Nigerians and other African travelers to eliminate inefficient stopovers and save valuable time. 

Okonkwo said: “The massive aircraft acquisition would generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs and boost the country’s economic development and growth, in line with the policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“After four years of solid and reliable operations by United Nigeria Airlines, the Boeing 737-800 upgrade will pave the way for a more profitable expansion and growth.

“We must put on record the strong support we have received from Boeing throughout the entire process and the promise for continued support to ensure a smooth entry into service and operation of the fleet. 

“The excellent maintenance culture of Southwest Airlines, which is in line with United Nigeria Airlines’ culture, motivated us to make the acquisition. We are looking forward to continued collaboration with Southwest Airlines post-delivery in different areas, such as: training and maintenance support, among other areas. 

“Consequently, we have also expressed interest in acquiring an additional four Boeing 737-800 NG aircraft, bringing the total to 10, which will be inducted into the United Nigeria Airlines fleet between the first quarter of 2026 and the first quarter of 2027.”

Speaking on the partnership, during the signing ceremony at the corporate campus of Southwest Airlines in Dallas, USA, Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing’s vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, said: “We are pleased to welcome United Nigeria Airlines to the 737 family with its first 737-800.

 “The 737-800 will provide United Nigeria Airlines with superior reliability, fuel efficiency and high-value returns operators require in today’s competitive market.”

Chief Commercial Officer of SkyWorks Holdings, LLC, Anders Hebrand, said, regarding the partnership: “We’re pleased to have partnered with Southwest Airlines as they continue to restructure and modernize their fleet.

“With United Nigeria Airlines, these top-of-the-line 737-800s have found a great home in the growing African aviation market, where they will be productive for many more years to come.”

The Boeing 737-800, renowned for its advanced technology and design enhancements that improve performance, efficiency, and passenger comfort, will enable United Nigeria Airlines to broaden its domestic, regional, and international operations, enhance efficiency and capacity, and strengthen Nigeria’s competitive edge in global aviation.

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Chinedu Eze United Nigeria Airlines, one of Africa’s fastest-growing carriers, has signed a landmark aircraft sales and purchase agreement with Southwest Airlines, the world’s largest operator of Boeing 737 and
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Olori Atuwatse III Champion African Women’s Conference Towards Empowerment 

Olori Atuwatse III Champion African Women’s Conference Towards Empowerment 

The Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom, Olori Atuwatse III, leading other notable Africa women emphasized the importance of harnessing women potentials, empowerment and leadership skills towards contributing to the social-economic and political future of the continent. 

Women across diverse endeavors had converged in Cape Coast Ghana at 2025 ‘Women Allying Women Conference’ a brainchild of “Elevate Africa”. 

Delivering a key note address at the well-attended Conference, the Founder, Elevate Africa and Queen Consort of Warri Kingdom, the Olori Atuwatse III, said the innate leadership qualities of women in homes and communities remains a testament to their capabilities in empathy, fiscal discipline, and strategic leadership.

The Queen Consort lamented the diminished role of women in formal decision-making spaces outside the home, particularly in business and politics, calling for a course correction. 

She also noted that in the modern era of royalty demands a complimentary for role for both male and female leadership in building a striving society just as she called for constitutional reform to ensure inclusion of more queens, mothers and female traditional leaders into local and traditional councils. 

She outlined the vision of Women Allying Women as a platform for women leaders to collaborate, reframing societal perceptions of women’s roles. 

“Every day, women across homes harness leadership skills that are innate to us. We show empathy, fiscal discipline, and strategic leadership, the kind that nurtures the next generation even as we build our own future.

“Now, we all know that the home is not just a domestic place; it is a microcosm of society that shapes the wider customs, values, structures, and norms. We are the generation that not only climbs the ladder but also steadies it and guides other women up.

“It is time to course-correct, because I can imagine what will happen when we set the temperature of nations and shape the atmosphere of continents. Incredible things. Purely incredible things,” she stated.

Elated Chief Executive Officer, (CEO), Ghana Tourism Author, Mrs. Maame Houadejote, described the event and the celebration of the festival as a game changer and opportunity to boosting the economy and culture of Cape Coast.

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The Queen Consort of the Warri Kingdom, Olori Atuwatse III, leading other notable Africa women emphasized the importance of harnessing women potentials, empowerment and leadership skills towards contributing to the
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