Hot Source
- All News
- January 18, 2025
- 12 views
US: Republican-led states sue Biden administration over offshore drilling ban
A group of Republican-led states on Friday sued the outgoing U.S. president, Joe Biden, over a ban on new offshore oil and gas development along most U.S. coastlines. The lawsuit, which sought a reversal of Biden’s ban with declaratory and injunctive relief, argued that Biden did not have the authority to impose such a ban,
US: Republican-led states sue Biden administration over offshore drilling ban
A group of Republican-led states on Friday sued the outgoing U.S. president, Joe Biden, over a ban on new offshore oil and gas development along most U.S. coastlines.
The lawsuit, which sought a reversal of Biden’s ban with declaratory and injunctive relief, argued that Biden did not have the authority to impose such a ban, saying that the power to do so rests with the U.S. Congress.
Biden’s move announced on January 6 was considered mostly symbolic, as it will not impact areas where oil and gas development is currently underway, and mainly covers zones where drillers have no important prospects, including in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Biden said the ban, which will affect 625 million acres of ocean, was in line with his agenda to fight climate change.
The Biden administration, which leaves office on January 20 when Republican President-elect, Donald Trump, takes over, has not commented on the lawsuit.
According to the lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana, Biden and Interior Secretary, Deb Haaland are defendants, with the states of Louisiana, Alabama, Alaska, Georgia and Mississippi being the plaintiffs.
The plaintiffs also include two trade groups – the American Petroleum Institute and the Gulf Energy Alliance.
However, Trump had said he would move quickly to revoke the ban.
US: Republican-led states sue Biden administration over offshore drilling ban
- All News
- January 18, 2025
- 13 views
Liquefied Natural Gas plants in Ajaokuta will promote cleaner energy – Natasha
Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has said the establishment of five Liquefied Natural Gas plants in Ajaokuta, Kogi Central Senatorial District would promote cleaner energy alternatives and reduce carbon emissions. She said the development demonstrates the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s commitment to implementing sustainable energy policies. In a statement she issued
Liquefied Natural Gas plants in Ajaokuta will promote cleaner energy – Natasha
Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has said the establishment of five Liquefied Natural Gas plants in Ajaokuta, Kogi Central Senatorial District would promote cleaner energy alternatives and reduce carbon emissions.
She said the development demonstrates the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s commitment to implementing sustainable energy policies.
In a statement she issued and made available to journalists in Abuja on Friday, the female lawmaker commended the Federal Government and the NNPCL, stressing that this wasn’t only a milestone, but it also aligned with the global best practices.
“I am delighted to extend my profound gratitude to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, and the Federal Government of Nigeria for the establishment of five Mini Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plants in Ajaokuta Local Government, Kogi.
“This remarkable development is a significant milestone in our collective efforts to promote cleaner energy alternatives, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance energy security across our nation.
“It demonstrates the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to implementing sustainable energy policies that align with global best practices while fostering economic growth and environmental protection.
“The establishment of these Mini LNG plants is a testament to the government’s dedication to providing innovative solutions to meet the energy demands of our people,” she said.
Natasha, who is the Senate Committee Chairman on Local Contents, added that utilising the vast Gas resources in Kogi would make the plants sustainable and thereby creating employment opportunities for the teeming Nigerians.
“By tapping into the vast natural gas resources in Kogi, these plants will create employment opportunities, stimulate industrial development, and ensure access to cleaner and more affordable energy for households, businesses, and industries.
“I wish to particularly commend the NNPC and its leadership for their forward-thinking approach in driving this transformative initiative.
“The deployment of Mini LNG plants showcases the Federal Government’s determination to diversify our energy mix, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and transition toward cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
“As the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, I am equally pleased to note the local participation and inclusion of indigenous expertise in the execution of this project.
“This not only enhances the capacity of our local workforce but also aligns with the goals of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act (2010) in fostering homegrown skills and technology transfer.
“The Mini LNG plants hold the promise of significant environmental benefits through reduced carbon emissions and air pollution, paving the way for a cleaner and greener future.
“Additionally, these plants will address the persistent energy supply challenges in the region, boost industrialisation, and attract local and foreign investments, thereby transforming Ajaokuta into an energy hub in Nigeria.
“As we celebrate this achievement, I reaffirm my commitment to advocating for sustainable policies and initiatives that prioritise the well-being of our people and the development of Kogi Central District.
“I urge all stakeholders to continue to work collaboratively to ensure the success and longevity of this laudable project,” she added.
Liquefied Natural Gas plants in Ajaokuta will promote cleaner energy – Natasha
- All News
- January 18, 2025
- 15 views
Tax reform: I celebrated Tinubu’s victory but freedom has now eluded us – Bala Mohammed
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has expressed that as an opposition governor during the 2023 general elections, he celebrated President Bola Tinubu’s victory, believing it would lead to progress. However, he now believes that “freedom and development are eluding us.” Speaking to journalists during a visit from Apostle Johnson Suleiman, Founder and General Overseer of
Tax reform: I celebrated Tinubu’s victory but freedom has now eluded us – Bala Mohammed
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has expressed that as an opposition governor during the 2023 general elections, he celebrated President Bola Tinubu’s victory, believing it would lead to progress.
However, he now believes that “freedom and development are eluding us.”
Speaking to journalists during a visit from Apostle Johnson Suleiman, Founder and General Overseer of Omega Fire Ministry, at the Government House in Bauchi, Mohammed criticized Tinubu’s approach to governance. He stated that Tinubu assumed power without a clear blueprint or manifesto and is surrounded by “misfits.”
“I hold President Tinubu in high regard, but someone must speak up and tell him that he is surrounded by misfits. I can now see, from the perspective of the Man of God, that Tinubu entered governance unprepared, without an agenda or a manifesto,” Mohammed remarked.
The governor further explained that he initially supported Tinubu due to his record as Lagos State Governor, believing his success in Lagos would translate to national progress. “I celebrated when he became President, despite belonging to a different party. I thought freedom had arrived, but now I see that both freedom and development are slipping away.”
Mohammed stressed that his criticism was not personal but centered on the policies of the current administration, which he believes may harm the people.
“I want to make it clear, in the presence of Apostle Johnson Suleiman, that I have no personal grudge against the President. I respect the office of the President, as I have always respected leadership. I have consistently supported actions that dignify leadership, including my role in the Senate during the Doctrine of Necessity when I supported the elevation of Goodluck Jonathan to the Presidency.”
He emphasized that Nigeria should treat its citizens as such, not as customers, and that policies should unite rather than divide the nation. “We should not enact policies that lead to division or impunity. We must respect our diversity and practice inclusivity, just as Prophet Suleiman exemplifies by spreading his message globally.”
Governor Mohammed concluded by urging the President to consider his advice in the spirit of goodwill, suggesting that governance would be more effective through inclusivity and clear vision.
“Leadership should not be reactive or based on foreign policies that are poorly understood. Without a clear vision, we risk heading down a path of destruction,” he said.
“I advocate for reforms that benefit us all, not because I oppose change, but because I want positive reforms that make a real difference.”
Tax reform: I celebrated Tinubu’s victory but freedom has now eluded us – Bala Mohammed
- All News
- January 18, 2025
- 14 views
Female student orchestrated attack on our lecturer – Kano Poly alleges
A female student at Kano State Polytechnic, (name withheld), is suspected of orchestrating an attack on a lecturer, Aliyu Hamza Abdullahi, on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. The lecturer, who served as the exam officer for the department, was allegedly targeted by the student’s boyfriend, a hired thug. The incident occurred when the student, dissatisfied with
Female student orchestrated attack on our lecturer – Kano Poly alleges
A female student at Kano State Polytechnic, (name withheld), is suspected of orchestrating an attack on a lecturer, Aliyu Hamza Abdullahi, on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. The lecturer, who served as the exam officer for the department, was allegedly targeted by the student’s boyfriend, a hired thug.
The incident occurred when the student, dissatisfied with her assigned course, attempted to have her admission changed to a different department. Her grades, however, did not meet the requirements for her preferred course.
Auwalu Ismail Bagwai, the Public Relations Officer of the polytechnic confirmed the attack on friday. “The female student entered the office alongside her boyfriend, identifying the lecturer as the obstacle to her desired course. The boyfriend then produced a cutlass and tried to stabb him on the head.” He revealed
The lecturer sustained injuries to his hands while attempting to defend himself. Other students in the office intervened, prompting the assailants to flee the scene.
The lecturer was promptly transported to the hospital for medical treatment. School security officers subsequently proceeded to Dorayi, the student’s residence, to apprehend her and her boyfriend. However, upon their arrival, the student fled into her house, and a group of thugs emerged, wielding weapons, and assaulted the security officers.
Bagwai confirmed that “security agencies are actively investigating the case and our the injured staff is currently receiving medical attention. We will do everything in our power to ensure justice is served”.
Female student orchestrated attack on our lecturer – Kano Poly alleges
- All News
- January 18, 2025
- 12 views
Finally, Israel approves Gaza hostage-ceasefire deal
The Israeli security cabinet finally on Friday voted to approve the hostage release-ceasefire deal with Hamas in Gaza. A statement by the prime minister’s office said the cabinet voted Friday afternoon with a recommendation that the government adopt it. The recommendation by the forum of top ministers was made after evaluating all diplomatic, security, and
Finally, Israel approves Gaza hostage-ceasefire deal
The Israeli security cabinet finally on Friday voted to approve the hostage release-ceasefire deal with Hamas in Gaza.
A statement by the prime minister’s office said the cabinet voted Friday afternoon with a recommendation that the government adopt it.
The recommendation by the forum of top ministers was made after evaluating all diplomatic, security, and humanitarian aspects of the agreement, with the understanding that the deal supports the achievement of the war’s goals.
However, the Finance Minister, Bezalel Smotrich and the National Security Minister, Itamar Ben Gvir, voted against the deal.
The deal, announced by mediators on Wednesday, is scheduled to take effect on Sunday afternoon.
According to a statement issued by the Justice Ministry, Israel is set to release 95 Palestinian prisoners including 10 teenagers on the first day of the truce, agreed to by both warring parties.
The first phase of the three-part deal is expected to last six weeks.
The number of prisoners scheduled to be released on Sunday includes 70 females and 25 males.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for Gaza’s Civil Defense, Mahmoud Basal, said that since the ceasefire was announced on Wednesday, Israeli strikes on Gaza have killed 117 people and injured over 266.
Hamas had earlier on Friday, accused Israel of trying to foil the deal through deliberate intensification of aerial attacks on the battered enclave.
Finally, Israel approves Gaza hostage-ceasefire deal
- All News
- January 18, 2025
- 14 views
TikTok threatens to go dark on Sunday, seeks Biden’s intervention
TikTok late Friday warned that it will go dark in the United States on Sunday except President Joe Biden’s administration provides assurances to companies like Apple and Google that they will not face enforcement actions when a ban takes effect. This is coming hours after the US Supreme Court upheld a law banning TikTok in
TikTok threatens to go dark on Sunday, seeks Biden’s intervention
TikTok late Friday warned that it will go dark in the United States on Sunday except President Joe Biden’s administration provides assurances to companies like Apple and Google that they will not face enforcement actions when a ban takes effect.
This is coming hours after the US Supreme Court upheld a law banning TikTok in the United States on national security grounds if its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, does not sell it, putting the popular short-video app on track to go dark in just two days.
The decision of the court threw the social media platform and its 170 million American users off balance and its fate in the hands of the incoming president, Donald Trump, who has vowed to rescue TikTok after returning to the presidency on Monday.
“The statements issued today by both the Biden White House and the Department of Justice have failed to provide the necessary clarity and assurance to the service providers that are integral to maintaining TikTok’s availability to over 170 million Americans.
“Unless the Biden Administration immediately provides a definitive statement to satisfy the most critical service providers assuring non-enforcement, unfortunately TikTok will be forced to go dark on January 19,” TikTok said in a statement.
Following the US Supreme Court’s decision, the incoming president, Donald Trump, in a post on social media said the Supreme Court decision was expected, and everyone must respect it.
“My decision on TikTok will be made in the not too distant future, but I must have time to review the situation. Stay tuned,” he said.
Responding to the decision, TikTok CEO, Shou Chew, said that the company will continue its efforts to ensure the app remains accessible for Americans potentially now with an assist from President-elect, Donald Trump.
“We have been fighting to protect the constitutional right of free speech for the more than 170 million Americans who use our platform every day to connect, create, discover and achieve their dreams.
“On behalf of everyone at TikTok, and our users across the country, I want to thank President Trump for his commitment to work with us to find a solution that keeps TikTok available in the United States,” Chew said.
TikTok threatens to go dark on Sunday, seeks Biden’s intervention
- All News
- January 18, 2025
- 24 views
N800bn can’t fix Nigeria’s bad roads – Umahi
The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has described the N800bn allocated to the ministry in the 2025 budget proposal as inadequate to fix the country’s road infrastructural needs. Umahi, a two-time governor of Ebonyi State, disclosed this on Friday at a 2025 budget defence session, hosted by the House Committee on Works. He called on
Read More
The Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, has described the N800bn allocated to the ministry in the 2025 budget proposal as inadequate to fix the country’s road infrastructural needs. Umahi, a two-time governor of Ebonyi State, disclosed this on Friday at a 2025 budget defence session, hosted by the House Committee on Works. He called on
- All News
- January 18, 2025
- 19 views
Tribunal: Ighodalo, PDP present evidence of alleged poll rigging
The Peoples Democratic Party and its candidate for the 2024 Edo State governorship election, Asue Ighodalo, on Friday, opened his case at the election petition tribunal, tendering vital documents used in the election to support their allegations of rigging. Ighodalo told the tribunal that the election was marred by widespread irregularities which made the Independent
Read More
The Peoples Democratic Party and its candidate for the 2024 Edo State governorship election, Asue Ighodalo, on Friday, opened his case at the election petition tribunal, tendering vital documents used in the election to support their allegations of rigging. Ighodalo told the tribunal that the election was marred by widespread irregularities which made the Independent
- All News
- January 18, 2025
- 23 views
Abure is LP national chair, A’Court affirms
The Court of Appeal, Abuja division, has declared that Julius Abure remains the National Chairman of the Labour Party. A three-member panel of the appellate court in a judgment delivered by Justice Hamma Barka, on Friday, held that its verdict of November 13, 2024, which recognised Abure as national chairman subsisted and had not been
Read More
The Court of Appeal, Abuja division, has declared that Julius Abure remains the National Chairman of the Labour Party. A three-member panel of the appellate court in a judgment delivered by Justice Hamma Barka, on Friday, held that its verdict of November 13, 2024, which recognised Abure as national chairman subsisted and had not been
- All News
- January 18, 2025
- 24 views
Minister laments 15% capital release to health ministry
The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, on Friday, lamented that only a paltry 15.06 per cent of the ministry’s capital allocation in the 2024 budget was released. The minister attributed the delay in the release and cash backing of its capital allocation to the bottom-up cash plan policy of the Office
Read More
The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, on Friday, lamented that only a paltry 15.06 per cent of the ministry’s capital allocation in the 2024 budget was released. The minister attributed the delay in the release and cash backing of its capital allocation to the bottom-up cash plan policy of the Office
