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Amid New $8bn Investments, Tinubu Announces Fresh Incentives for Oil Sector

Amid New $8bn Investments, Tinubu Announces Fresh Incentives for Oil Sector

* To return 50% of incremental cost savings to investors 

*Set to cut project costs, caps tax credit at 20%

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

As a follow-up to his recent efforts to raise crude oil production and attract investment to the oil and gas sector, President Bola Tinubu has issued a new Executive Order which seeks to lower project costs, attract more investors, and enhance revenues from operations in the sector.

In the new Order, 50 per cent of incremental government gain resulting from cost savings will be returned to investors, while available tax credits have been capped at 20 per cent of a company’s annual tax liability.

The document which was made public by the office of the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, Olu Verheijen, indicated that the move, while protecting government revenues, also offers strong fiscal terms to incentivise efficient operators.

This comes after recent announcement that the country had attracted over $8 billion in investments for deepwater oil and gas projects within a year, marking a significant turnaround in the sector. This was also attributed to reforms implemented under Tinubu’s administration.  Verheijen had announced this development at the 2025 Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, highlighting that the investments stemmed from Final Investment Decisions (FIDs) in deepwater and gas projects, such as the Bonga North (Shell), and Ubeta (Total Energies), among others.

Nigeria has one of the highest costs per barrel of oil worldwide,  ranking significantly above many of its peers, especially within the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and Africa.

Nigeria’s average cost of production per barrel ranges between $25 to $48, depending on the field, security situation, and operational efficiencies. In contrast, low-cost producers like Saudi Arabia and Iraq have production costs closer to $3 to $10 per barrel, thanks to large, shallow fields, better infrastructure, and fewer security concerns.

Aside from these, bureaucratic hurdles have been blamed as another source of high costs, with multiple agencies and frequent policy shifts that create uncertainty and delays. Added to those are procurement and contracting issues as well as local content requirements.

While some of these policies aim to build long-term domestic capability, they can be expensive in the short term, some operators say.
But the document titled: “The Upstream Petroleum Operations Cost Efficiency Incentives Order (2025)” now introduces performance-based tax incentives for upstream operators who deliver verifiable cost savings that meet defined industry benchmarks.

According to the new Order, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) will publish these benchmarks annually according to terrain—onshore, shallow water, and deep offshore. Additionally, detailed implementation guidelines for the new Order will be issued in due course.
Since assuming office in May 2023, Tinubu has implemented several significant reforms in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector aimed at enhancing efficiency, attracting investment, and combating systemic challenges.

They include: The Oil and Gas Companies (Tax Incentives, Exemption, Remission, etc.) Order, 2024;  Presidential Directive on Local Content Compliance Requirements, 2024 and Presidential Directive on Reduction of Petroleum Sector Contracting Costs and Timelines, 2024, aimed at increasing the contract approval threshold to $10 million.

Part of the Executive Order Read: “Whereas, the operating costs in the Nigerian oil and gas sector have been observed to be high compared to global average, arising mainly from prolonged project execution timelines and local content requirements.

“Whereas, the President has in response to the high operating costs, issued policy directives on the reduction of oil and gas sector operating costs, contracting timelines and local content compliance requirements.

“Whereas, the Federal Government of Nigeria is committed to efficient management of petroleum resources and reduction of costs in upstream petroleum operations to enhance competitiveness and efficiency; and whereas, it has become necessary to provide additional measures to promote fiscal discipline, reduce operating costs and maximise Nigeria’s economic gains from the upstream petroleum operations through monitoring mechanisms and appropriate regime of incentives.

“Now therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section… make the following Order. The objective of this Order is to establish a Cost Efficiency Incentive Objective (CEI) framework aimed at improving efficiency and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global oil and gas sector by:

“Reducing operating costs in the upstream petroleum operations through achievable cost reduction measures, strategies and targets;  promoting cost discipline among stakeholders in the upstream petroleum operations; improving operational performance and streamlining contract cycles; maximising economic value from the oil and gas sector; and offering tax incentives to companies which achieve or surpass cost reduction targets.”

Tinubu stated that the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) on an annual basis, will conduct an assessment and benchmarking study to establish appropriate cost benchmarks for upstream operational activities and unit operating costs for onshore, shallow water, and deep offshore terrains.
Besides, the President stated that companies shall receive tax credits for realised savings directly linked to their operating costs and production volume in line.
Tinubu stated that the move aims to progressively eliminate the cost premium in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and establish targets that drive year-on-year improvements in cost efficiency.

“Notwithstanding any other provision of this Order, the tax credit claimable in any given year shall not exceed 20 per cent of a lessee or licensee tax liability for that year,” he added.

To ensure effective implementation of the new Order, the President tasked the Special Adviser on Energy, Verheijen, to lead inter-agency coordination, ensuring alignment across key government institutions and translating policy intent into measurable outcomes.

“Nigeria must attract investment inflows, not out of charity, but because investors are convinced of real and enduring value. This Order is a signal to the world: we are building an oil and gas sector that is efficient, competitive, and works for all Nigerians. It is about securing our future, creating jobs, and making every barrel count,” Tinubu added.

In her remarks, Verheijen noted that with the reform, Nigeria is rewarding efficiency and strengthening investor confidence.

“This is not a pursuit of cost reduction for its own sake. It is a deliberate strategy to position Nigeria’s upstream sector as globally competitive and fiscally resilient. With this reform, we are rewarding efficiency, strengthening investor confidence, and ultimately delivering greater value to the Nigerian people,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) has commended the Nigerian government’s continued commitment to not only improving the operating climate for oil and gas firms, but strengthening the competitiveness of doing business in Nigeria.

Led by the Executive Chairman of the AEC, NJ Ayuk, the organisation described the move as an intentional strategy to transform the country, noting that with this reform, Nigeria is well-positioned to attract fresh investment across its upstream oil and gas sector – reaffirming the country’s position as one of Africa’s top producers.

“The executive order could not come at a better time for Nigeria. Targeting 2 million barrels per day (bpd) in oil production and 12 billion standard cubic feet per day (bscf/d) in gas production – up from the current 7.3 bscf/d , Nigeria requires significant levels of investment in both active fields and exploration blocks.
“While the country has long-faced investment decline owing to a variety of factors – including regulatory uncertainty and shifts in global spending – recent reforms promise to turn this trend around. The Upstream Petroleum Operations Cost Efficiency Incentives Order (2025) follows the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in 2021, which sought to address industry challenges by providing a comprehensive framework for the country’s oil and gas landscape. With both policies, Nigeria is expected to accelerate investment in exploration and production.

“The impact of the PIA has already been felt across the country, with energy companies – from majors to independents to the national oil company – making sizable investments,” Ayuk added.

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Tinubu: Nigeria is Working, Our Worst Days Now Behind Us

Tinubu: Nigeria is Working, Our Worst Days Now Behind Us

•Declares zero VAT on food, education, healthcare, rent, others 

•Discloses external reserves grew by 500% from $4bn to over $23bn

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

President Bola Ahmed  Tinubu has maintained that the economic reforms which he embarked upon in the last two years are working and yielding the expected results, insisting that the worst is already behind the country.

In a nationwide broadcast Thursday morning, to mark the second year since he assumed office, the President dismissed recent concerns over fluctuating crude oil prices, which recently hit $58/barrel, despite a $75/barrel budget benchmark, pointing out that Nigeria’s fiscal targets for 2025 remain on track.

On the second anniversary of the administration, the President also declared zero Value Added Tax (VAT) on key commodities like food, education, healthcare, rent, among other essential commodities, in a bid to reduce the taxation burden on households.

Tinubu, who took office in May 2023 has embarked on a broad range of economic reforms, which though seen as harsh on Nigerians, are largely acknowledged as necessary.

The President agreed that in the process of implementing the reforms necessary to strengthen the economy and deliver shared prosperity, there had been some difficulties experienced by  compatriots and families.

Noting that he does not take Nigerians’ patience for granted, the Nigerian leader restated that the only alternative to the reforms the administration initiated was a fiscal crisis that would have bred runaway inflation, external debt default, crippling fuel shortages, a plunging Naira, and an economy in a free-fall.

He argued that despite the bump in the cost of living, Nigeria has made ‘undeniable’ progress, stressing that inflation has begun to ease, with rice prices and other staples declining.

Besides, Tinubu stated that the oil and gas sector is recovering, with rig counts up by over 400 per cent in 2025 compared to 2021, and over $8 billion in new investments having been committed. He added that the administration has stabilised the economy and is now better positioned for growth and prepared to withstand global shocks.

In 2025, Tinubu stated that Nigeria remains on track with its fiscal targets, with gross proceeds per barrel from crude oil broadly aligned with forecasts as the country intensifies efforts to ramp up production.  According to him, the nation’s fiscal deficit has narrowed sharply from 5.4 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2023 to 3.0 per cent in 2024.

Tinubu highlighted that the economic and general situation of the country he inherited required that he redirected the country’s affairs with a bold and new vision, especially the implementation of two necessary policies to stop the country from further drifting into the precipice.

The President stressed that it was apparent that if the federal government and the other two tiers of government must remain viable and cater to the citizens’ welfare, it must do away with decades-long fuel subsidies and the ‘corruption-ridden’ multiple foreign exchange windows, noting that the two were no longer sustainable.

“Today, I proudly affirm that our economic reforms are working. We are on course to building a greater, more economically stable nation,” the Nigerian leader said, adding that: “By the Grace of God, we are confident that the worst is behind us.”

While thanking fellow citizens for their unrelenting support and belief in the grand vision, Tinubu noted that May 29, 2025, offers the administration the opportunity to share again how far it has gone and the progress in steering the country along the critical path of socio-economic development.

Tinubu stated that there has been improved revenue generation and greater transparency in government finances, emphasising that the first quarter of this year, Nigeria recorded over N6 trillion in revenue.

He reiterated that the country discontinued ‘Ways & Means’ financing, which he said has been a major contributor to high and sticky inflation, while the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), no longer burdened by unsustainable fuel subsidies, is now a net contributor to the Federation Account.

“Our debt position is improving. While foreign exchange revaluation pushed our debt-to-GDP ratio to around 53 per cent, our debt service-to-revenue ratio dropped from nearly 100 per cent in 2022 to under 40 per cent by 2024. We paid off our IMF obligations and grew our net external reserves by almost 500 per cent from $4 billion in 2023 to over $23 billion by the end of 2024.

“Thanks to our reforms, state revenue increased by over N6 trillion in 2024, ensuring that subnational governments can reduce their debt burden, meet salaries and pension obligations on a timely basis, and invest more in critical infrastructure and human capital development.

“One of our administration’s most impactful achievements is our bold tax reform agenda, which is already yielding results. By the end of 2024, our tax-to-GDP ratio rose from 10 per cent to over 13.5 per cent, a remarkable leap in just one year. This was not by accident. It results from deliberate improvement in our tax administration and policies designed to make our tax system fairer, more efficient, and more growth-oriented.

“We are eliminating the burden of multiple taxation, making it easier for small businesses to grow and join the formal economy. The tax reforms will protect low-income households and support workers by expanding their disposable income. Essential goods and services such as food, education, and healthcare will now attract 0 per cent VAT. Rent, public transportation, and renewable energy will be fully exempted from VAT to reduce household costs further.

“We are ending the era of wasteful and opaque tax waivers. Instead, we have introduced targeted and transparent incentives supporting high-impact manufacturing, technology, and agriculture sectors. These reforms are not just about revenue but about stimulating inclusive economic growth,” Tinubu pointed out.

According to him, there is a deliberate focus on the youth, who a friendlier tax environment for digital jobs and remote work will empower, adding that through export incentives, Nigerian businesses will be able to compete globally.

To promote fairness and accountability, he stated that the country is establishing a Tax Ombudsman, an independent institution that will protect vulnerable taxpayers and ensure the system works for everyone, especially small businesses.

Most importantly, Tinubu posited that Nigeria is laying the foundation for a more sustainable future by introducing a new national fiscal policy. This strategic framework, he said,  will guide our approach to fair taxation, responsible borrowing, and disciplined spending.

“These reforms are designed to reduce the cost of living, promote economic justice, and build a business-friendly economy that attracts investment and supports every Nigerian. Together, we are creating a system where prosperity is shared, and no one is left behind,” he stressed.

Tinubu said his administration has breathed new life into the solid minerals sector as part of  efforts to diversify the economy, while revenue has increased phenomenally, and investors are setting up processing plants as the sector dumps the old pit-to-port policy and embraces a new value-added policy. Furthermore, he argued that the government has repositioned the health sector despite all odds, with over 1,000 Primary Health Centres being revitalised nationwide, and an additional 5,500 PHCs being

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Nigeria Approves $500m for AfDB’s Trust Fund Replenishment over Next 15 Years

Nigeria Approves $500m for AfDB’s Trust Fund Replenishment over Next 15 Years

*Adesina thanks Tinubu, Shettima for renewed commitment to Africa’s devt

Nume Ekeghe in Abidjan

Nigeria has approved a fresh $500 million replenishment of the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF) at the African Development Bank (AfDB), extending the facility for another 15 years.

President of the AfDB, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, announced this during his opening remarks at the ongoing AfDB Annual Meetings in Abidjan as he expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their continued support.

“To President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and to Vice President Kashim Shettima, for your support over the past two years, I am profoundly grateful. Thank you for graciously approving the replenishment of the Nigeria Trust Fund for another 15 years for $500 million.”

The Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF) was set up in 1976 through an agreement between the Nigerian government and the African Development Bank Group. It’s a revolving fund that sustains itself over time and is designed to support the development of low-income African countries in need of concessional financing.

The fund can be used in a number of ways—either to co-finance projects alongside the African Development Bank and the African Development Fund (ADF) or to finance projects independently. It supports both public and private sector initiatives and can also be used to top up funding for ongoing Bank Group-backed projects.

Unlike the ADF, which allocates funds to countries, NTF resources are tied to specific projects. This allows for more flexible, needs-based support where it’s most effective.

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Anyanwu Postpones PDP NEC After Wike Pulled Out of Agreement with Govs

Anyanwu Postpones PDP NEC After Wike Pulled Out of Agreement with Govs

*FCT minister discloses terms of current reconciliation 

*Accuses Makinde of stoking new fire in party, allegedly instigating others against agreement 

*Damagum defends ties with FCT minister, insists party not divided 

*N’Central elects new party executives

Chuks Okocha, Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja and Seriki Adinoyi in Jos

Hours after Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, pulled out of a peace agreement he had with Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors and declared he was ready for a fight to the finish, National Secretary of PDP, Samuel Anyanwu, announced a postponement of the 99th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party slated for May 27.

The rearrangement came as acting National Chairman of PDP, Ambassador Umar Damagum, denied allegations of incompetence and collusion with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), but defended his relationship with Wike.

In a related development, the North-central zone of PDP held its congress in Jos, the Plateau State capital, and elected new party officials.

A PDP Board of Trustees (BoT) meeting had been slated for today preparatory to the NEC parley, fixed for tomorrow.

But the schedule changed after Anyanwu announced the postponement of the NEC meeting.

A statement by Anyanwu said the postponement was to allow the Senator Bukola Saraki-led Way Forward Committee to conclude its assignment of resolving internal party conflicts.

Anyanwu emphasised that the committee’s work was crucial to ensuring a peaceful and effective NEC meeting.

The statement said a new date for the meeting will be announced in line with the PDP Constitution 2017, as amended, and the Electoral Act, 2022.

The statement warned that any NEC meeting notice or publication issued by deputy national secretary, posing as the acting national secretary, was unauthorised, illegal, and should be disregarded.

Anyanwu expressed regret over any inconvenience the change might cause but reassured stakeholders of his commitment to party unity and progress.

Nevertheless, an official of the party from the publicity directorate asked stakeholders to disregard the statement from Anyanwu.

Earlier in the day, Wike, who went over some of the terms of the peace agreement the party had sealed with him, accused Oyo State Governor ‘Seyi Makinde of stoking a new crisis in the party by allegedly instigating other leaders, including Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, to move against the agreement.

Explaining his current position, Wike, in a statement yesterday, which he personally signed, said, “Since after the 2023 general election, the PDP has been wantonly swinging from one part of a slippery precipice to another, owing fundamentally to dishonesty and lack of trust amongst its key stakeholders.

“To stem this ugly trend, efforts have been made to arrest this pernicious virus of dishonesty and treachery and enthrone fidelity to agreements with a view to stabilising the party and moving it forward.

“To this end, a meeting of the G5 was held in Lagos. In that meeting, I made it clear to the Governor of Oyo State, HE. Seyi Makinde, that he was the architect of our problems, pointing out to him that non-adherence to agreements reached was the bane of the party, and that he was the chief culprit of this anomaly.
“At the end of the meeting, we resolved to bury the hatchet and make progress.

“As a follow-up to the aforementioned meeting, there was an expanded meeting in Abuja involving HE. Seyi Makinde, HE. Umaru Fintri, HE. Bala Mohammed, HE, Bukola Saraki, and I in Saraki’s guest house.

“In that meeting, I made it clear that I had no personal problems with HE. Bala Mohammed, except that he hides under the facade of Chairman of PDP Governors’ Forum to serially renege on agreements. Tensions rose mightily in the meeting and it took all concerned to calm frayed nerves.”

Wike said at the end of the meeting, they came to some resolutions, including, “That Senator Samuel Anyanwu remains the National Secretary of the PDP in tandem with the Supreme Court judgement. All legal matters relating to Rivers State must be withdrawn by the National Legal Adviser.

“The suit on the state of emergency be withdrawn forthwith. Nobody should deviate from the agreements so reached.”

According to the minister, “In the light of the foregoing, they pleaded with me to attend the stakeholders’ meeting at the Bauchi Government Lodge, regardless of my many engagements.

“I attended the meeting and clearly reiterated my earlier concerns, and to this end and in order to resolve all other lingering and pending issues, a committee was formed, headed by HE. Bukola Saraki.

“It is disheartening to note that even before the Bukola Saraki Reconciliation Committee began its work, the gentleman’s agreement we reached at Saraki’s Guest House was already being crudely violated.

“To my chagrin, Seyi Makinde had connived with Peter Mbah of Enugu State to orchestrate the summoning of the meeting of so-called South-East leaders to recommend that if Ude-Okoye was not adopted as Secretary, they would pull out of the PDP. I have since granted an interview to the effect that, that resolution of the South-East leaders cannot hold.

“Again, Seyi Makinde organised some people in the National Secretariat to insist that the Deputy National Secretary should act as National Secretary, in violation of the agreement earlier reached. To attempt to give credence to this farce, a letter was written by the Deputy National Secretary, calling for a meeting of the NEC of the party.”

Wike added, in the statement, “Furthermore, the letter confirming the candidacy of the governorship candidate of the party in the forthcoming governorship election in Anambra State, duly signed by the National Secretary, Senator Anyanwu, and the acting National Chairman, was portrayed as rejected by the party through a rebuttal letter signed by the National Publicity Secretary, acting on the orders of Seyi Makinde and Peter Mbah.

“All these actions are in complete violation of the agreements reached and would not do the party any good whatsoever.

“On the 24th of May 2025, in Jos, for instance, a well publicised and properly attended zonal elective congress of the PDP was aborted because the letter inviting INEC to the congress was signed by the Deputy National Secretary of the party.

“INEC refused to attend because the proper signatory recognised by law, that is Senator Samuel Anyanwu, was not a signatory to the invitation notice. This is undeniably distasteful, provocative and annoying, to say the least.

“I have painstakingly put out all these facts so that PDP members and the general public would know the truth. I have been in this party since 1998 and have worked tirelessly for the survival of this party with all my strength and it is on record that none of these persons have done anything close to what I have done to sustain this party.”

Wike stated, “What is more painful is that I contributed substantially to most of these governors winning their elections, yet I have not made any personal demands on any of them and I would never do so.

“Most importantly, I had thought that we could keep the trust amongst us, but since it is now obvious that they would continue to play games to the detriment of the party, as is the case in the current debacle in the North-central zonal elections, I have now firmly decided to pull out of all agreements hitherto reached.
“I have decided to fight on until justice is attained.”

Damagum Defends Ties with Wike, Denies Allegations of Incompetence, Working for APC

Acting National Chairman of PDP, Ambassador Umar Damagum, denied allegations of incompetence and collusion with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Damagum, who also defended his relationship with Wike, amid mounting criticisms within the party, insisted that PDP was not divided and would soon overcome its challenges.

In an interview with BBC Hausa, Damagun addressed the accusations directly, dismissing claims that he is a puppet of APC. He reaffirmed his loyalty to PDP.
 “May God be judge between me and whoever slandered me, and may God judge us, if I am working for the APC,” he said, referring to allegations that he met with President Bola Tinubu in England.

Damagum emphasised his long-standing commitment to PDP, stating, “I have a history. Since I joined the PDP in 1999, I have never defected. Those who dislike me will have to find ways to either praise or criticise me to get what they want.”

Damagum also responded to criticisms regarding his relationship with Wike. He acknowledged their association but denied any wrongdoing.

He said, “For all those who accuse me of having links with the Minister of FCT, I know him or have had links with him, and many of them have had links with him. My only fault here is that I did not allow them to do what they wanted with him.”

The PDP chairman expressed disappointment over the defection of some party members to APC, describing it as a loss. But he denied any mistreatment of those who left.

Damagum stated, “We must be sad. Whenever you lose someone, you don’t feel happy, even if it’s just one person you’re grieving for.”

He said none of the defectors could claim they were wronged by the party.

Addressing internal divisions within PDP, Damagum admitted that disagreements were inevitable in any political party but maintained that PDP remained united.
He declared, “PDP is one. It is true that there are internal problems, because a party never lacks problems because its leaders are people, and people are in it, and everyone has their own interests.”

Damagum, who also defended his leadership style, stated that he had adhered to principles and refused to yield to individual whims.

He also pointed to the aftermath of the party’s election losses as a period of heightened complaints, but reiterated his commitment to leading PDP with integrity.

North Central PDP Elects New Executives

The North-central zone of PDP held its congress in Jos at the weekend, and elected new party officials.

The congress, which started on Saturday produced Mohammed Abdulrahman as National Vice Chairman (North-central) to lead the zone into future political contests.

The election was widely acknowledged as peaceful and transparent.

Most of the new executives emerged unopposed in the exercise conducted in full compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act, with voting and counting duly observed in all positions.

Other newly elected officials included Orogu Francis (Zonal Secretary) and Ndagana Alhasan (Zonal Youth Leader).

Held at Langfield Leisure Park, Jos, the congress attracted key stakeholders of the party from across the North-central region, including former senate presidents, past and serving governors, national and state assembly members, former ministers, and other party bigwigs.

In his acceptance speech, Abdulrahman expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to reposition the party for greater electoral success in the North-central zone.

He described the zone as a stronghold of the party and called on members to rally behind the new leadership to return the party to winning ways.

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, while congratulating the newly elected executives, charged them to immediately set to work and unite the party across the zone.

Mutfwang stated, “Today’s congress was peaceful and successful. It clearly shows that the PDP in the North-central is alive and vibrant. We have shown that we are peace-loving, united, and committed to the ideals of the party.

“To those who stepped down in the spirit of party unity, your sacrifices will not be forgotten. I urge the newly elected executive to hit the ground running, reconcile differences, and build a strong, united front ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Be assured of our continuous support in nurturing the party to meet the aspirations of Nigerians.”

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• May 26, 2025
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Petrol Retailers Urge NNPC to Adhere to 30-Day Refinery Repair Timeline

Petrol Retailers Urge NNPC to Adhere to 30-Day Refinery Repair Timeline

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has urged the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) to adhere to the scheduled 30-day repair timeline for the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC).

This call followed the announcement by the NNPC via its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, that the facility will undergo a planned maintenance shutdown.

Soneye, in the statement, disclosed that the scheduled maintenance and sustainability assessment will commence on May 24, 2025.

He stated that the company was “working closely with all relevant stakeholders, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), to ensure that the maintenance and assessment activities are carried out efficiently and transparently”.

Expressing concerns over the shutdown of the Old Port Harcourt Refinery, PETROAN’s National President, Billy Gillis-Harry, said the refinery’s shutdown for maintenance is expected, but the association wants the NNPC to adhere to the repair timeline to minimise disruptions to petroleum product supply.

PETROAN expressed the fear that the 30-day schedule might not be realistic due to usual bottlenecks, potentially leading to further delays and exacerbating supply challenges.

The association further expressed worries that delays in the old refinery’s 30-day rehabilitation schedule may worsen economic hardship for millions of Nigerians.

It, however, emphasised that the repair process must include the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) blending unit, as the crude oil cracking process is of no value without it.

The group also demanded “that NNPC completes the repair before existing stocks run dry to prevent market monopoly and ensure a stable supply of petroleum products”.

It noted that completing the repair on time will help maintain competition in the market, benefiting consumers and the economy.

PETROAN further recommended that the Minister of Petroleum should set up a task force comprising all petroleum industry stakeholders to monitor the 30-day repairs and to brief Nigerians on the job progress every weekend to ensure transparency and accountability in achieving the repair schedule.

The petrol retailers added that payments to contractors handling the repairs be made promptly to avoid delays and ensure the project stays on track.

Meanwhile, an internal memo circulated in the refinery on the Area 5 plant shutdown, yesterday, warned staff not to interact with external people or give information to the media.

The letter also stated that as government workers, it is against the Labour Law to engage pressmen in interviews, adding that any defaulter will be severely disciplined.

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OML 42: In Major Boost for Nigeria, Neconde Raises Oil Production to 50,000 Barrels Daily

OML 42: In Major Boost for Nigeria, Neconde Raises Oil Production to 50,000 Barrels Daily

*Company’s financing arrangement on course 

*Industry data shows FTSA model working, firm targets 120,000bpd in 48 months

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

Nigeria’s crude oil production has received a major boost, with Neconde, one of the country’s foremost indigenous independent producers hitting 50,000 barrels per day on Oil Mining Licence (OML) 42 as of May 2025.

With the company’s Financial and Technical Services Agreement (FTSA) solidly in place, industry data obtained by THISDAY showed that Neconde has now steadily increased output in the last 24 months by over 100 per cent.

The data indicated that the implementation of the FTSA solution raised production from an average of 15,000 bpd in 2023 to 25, 000 bpd in 2024 and to 2025 year-to-date of 50,000 bpd and aspiration to exit this year at over 70,000bpd.

Besides, the company is expected to hit 120,000 bpd in the next 48 months, deploying its massive human resource and technical expertise to grow the asset.
THISDAY learnt that the company has mostly been able to increase this output, with its philosophy of excellence in service delivery, fair market price, focus on cost discipline as well as optimisation and elimination of non-value adding processes.

Furthermore, whilst developing and empowering  local capacity development as well as working with local communities, the FTSA is enabling the company to put in place the desired governance in terms of processes and procedures.

The arrangement, it was understood, is also ensuring transparency and accountability, direct access to international oilfield services like Shlumberger (SLB) and Haliburton as well Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), a strategic advantage that will help the company achieve its target crude production in the coming years.

The initial aggressive development and intervention campaign successfully executed in 2024 also enabled a second campaign in 2025,  with imminent mobilisation workovers and infill drilling to support the production growth aspiration of over 120,000 bpd.

Set to commence in June 2025, its first rig-based production growth programme since the acquisition of the asset by Neconde in 2011, will enable rapid facility upgrades and life extension. Also, the asset is opening up one of the fields that have not been re-entered and produced since acquisition in 2011, Egwa 2 field, with huge oil and gas reserves.

Although before Shell exited, OML 42 had reached a daily production of circa 250,000, however it was dormant by the time Neconde took it over, after community disturbances that led to facility shutdown around 2005/ 2006.

Specifically, in the last few years, the company, according to available information, has built capacity, especially helped by the FTSA model which was activated in 2022, and could do even more with a little encouragement.

Nigeria currently faces several challenges in raising its oil production, a development that has reduced the volume of crude reaching export terminals and has frequently disrupted operations. Underinvestment in upstream infrastructure is also a significant issue which  has led to facility integrity degradation, extending downtime and production deferments due to frequent equipment failures and poor maintenance practices.

While revitalising the existing but non-functional gas compression facility, it was learnt that the drilling programme also involves gas developments to support the  local gas supplies, eliminate gas flare and improve stakeholder value extraction, as the asset has huge untapped gas reserves. Many oilfields and facilities suffer from neglect, with limited capital expenditure on exploration and maintenance.

But despite the significant bottlenecks, Nigeria has embarked on an ambitious initiative known as ‘Project 1 Million Barrels Per Day’, aiming to significantly boost its crude oil production.  This project seeks to elevate daily output from a baseline of approximately 1.46 million barrels in October 2024 to a long-term target of 3 million barrels bpd.  It is believed that with some support, firms like Neconde could help achieve this target.

With a new NNPC management team led by Mr Bayo Ojulari in place, with a track record of performance in their previous endeavours in the sector, it is believed that to achieve the targets set by President Bola Tinubu, there may be the need to look inwards.

Tinubu had outlined ambitious targets to revitalise Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and bolster the nation’s economy.  The key objectives set for the new NNPC leadership include: Elevating crude oil production, expanding gas output; enhancing refining capacity as well as attracting the right investment to the sector.

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President  to New NNPCL Board: Use Your Experience to Turn Nation’s Economy Around

President  to New NNPCL Board: Use Your Experience to Turn Nation’s Economy Around

•Charges members to build on gains of ongoing economic reforms  

•Ojulari: Nation’s refineries’ production to rise from 1.5m to 1.9m barrels by end of 2025

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has charged the new board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to bring the experiences of its members to bear on the ongoing efforts to transform the country’s economy.

Speaking while inaugurating the NNPC Limited Board at State House, Abuja, on Thursday, Tinubu said he selected the board members painstakingly to ensure quality leadership.

Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd, Bashir Ojulari, said the team had met with industry stakeholders and set clear directions on how to improve various aspects of the company’s operations.

Tinubu told the new board, “When I started searching, it took a while to come up with the kind of character that you represent. You represent the best in the industry, and I have set goals for you.

“You have the reputation, resourcefulness and experience to help the country. It is a call to duty for you. I believe you are among the best the industry can offer.”

The president said the ongoing economic reforms had yielded results, with local and international acknowledgements.

According to him, “Nigeria has come of age. It is now more competitive and turning the corner, and with your highly respected team, I can relax and attend to other issues.

“Thank you for accepting the opportunity to serve your country and our dear country.”

Tinubu also told the board that the

volatility in the world’s economy will require looking inwards for solutions, and Nigerians will depend on them to reposition NNPC Ltd.

“Explore all options for a win-win situation for Nigeria. I am so proud of you and believe you will succeed,” he said.

Earlier, Minister of State, Petroleum, Heineken Lokpobiri, thanked the president for assembling the team he described as the best in Africa.

Lokpobiri stated, “I got calls from the whole of Africa, my colleagues in OPEC, saying that if this team does not deliver, Nigeria will have to import men from another planet to come and deliver the oil and gas sector in Nigeria.”

Chairman of the Board, Ahmadu Kida, thanked Tinubu for the opportunity to serve the country.

Kida said the new board would uphold the highest standard of leadership, courage, and integrity in delivering on the president’s mandate.

Ojulari said the team had already met with industry stakeholders to review operations and business relationships.

“We have had several meetings, and we have set a direction with the mandate that you have given us. We have commenced the journey with a bi-weekly meeting with stakeholders,” he said.

Ojulari stated that the management had started optimising various aspects of the company, including the turnaround maintenance of the refineries.

He said production had risen to 1.7 million barrels in two months, from 1.5 million barrels, with the target of reaching 1.9 million barrels by year-end.

“We will promise what we can deliver, and we will deliver on our promise,” he added.

Ojulari also said the president’s economic reform had sent the right signals to attract foreign direct investments.

He assured that NNPC Ltd would operate as a business.

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Tinubu Consolidates an Expanding APC, Dwindling Opposition Weighs Counter Options

Tinubu Consolidates an Expanding APC, Dwindling Opposition Weighs Counter Options

•APC apparatchiks endorse president as sole candidate for 2027

•Don’t blame people bailing out of sinking ship, I expect more defections, says Tinubu

•Opposition coalition  appoints Mark Chair; Imoke, Amaechi too

Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha  and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

With just less than two years to the 2027 general election, President Bola Tinubu, has begun to consolidate his chances ahead of a potential second term run with an expanding party base amid dwindling opposition that has been hit by mass defections to the ruling party.

At the same time, the opposition coalition, too, has started to mull the options before it, chief of which is to either align with one of the existing parties or form a new one.

This is coming on the heels of a major boost to the President’s 2027 potential bid, as key apparatchiks of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), including governors of the party, members of the national assembly and other stakeholders endorsed him for another term in office yesterday.

However, Tinubu, for the first time yesterday, reacted to the unceasing defection from the opposition parties to the APC and the alleged decent to one-party state, saying, “don’t blame a people bailing out a sinking ship. I am expecting more to come.”

The president, who insisted that the development reflected democratic choices, not one-party threat, promised that the next two years would be great for the Nigerian people.

Tinubu, who spoke at the APC National Summit held at the Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja, also stressed that the 1999 Constitution guaranteed freedom of movement and association.

According to him, it’s one party that was ruling and driving the aspirations of Nigerians.

“You don’t blame a people bailing out a sinking ship. I am expecting more to come, that is the game. We are in a constitutional democracy that guarantees the freedom of movement and the freedom of association. Welcome to the progressives,” he said.

Responding to concerns that the influx of prominent figures joining the APC could lead Nigeria to a one-party state, the president asserted that the defections demonstrated the democratic preferences and ambitions of the populace.

Tinubu, who was assertive, promised to lead the nation to the promise land.

“I’m glad about what we have and I’m expecting more to come. That is the game. We’re in a constitutional democracy. Don’t forget the freedom of movement and the freedom of association are not criminally punishable.

“Welcome to the progressives. Sweep them clean. The endorsement today, the ‘carry go’ expression—I know road. We will lead you on to that promised land,” he declared.

Tinubu’s comments came amid mounting concerns in opposition circles that the political landscape might be tilting dangerously toward single-party dominance.

He gave reassurances on the nation’s economic trajectory, stating that the administration’s efforts to revamp Nigeria’s economy were yielding results.

His words: “The resuscitation of the Nigerian economy is on course. The hope is standing before you—take it on. You are the leaders and the conscience of this country. Nigeria will be industrialised. The next two years will be great. We have the mission, we have the vision.”

Referring to party faithful and supporters, some of whom might feel left out of political appointments thus far, the president called for more patience and trust.

“To many of you I have not offered political positions, be patient, many things are coming,” he said, signaling a broader inclusion strategy as his administration advances.

On the fuel subsidy removal policy, which his administration owned two years ago after it was removed by the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, Tinubu said it was well justified, noting that a large chunk of savings from the subsidy regime had gone into healthcare provision, education and security.

The president, however, described his deputy, Kashim Shettima as a member of his administration’s think tank.

“Mr Vice President, even if I will stand on existing protocol, I will recognise you because you are a member of the Think tank,” he said.

2027: APC Apparatchiks Endorse Tinubu

The path to the 2027 presidential election might have begun to ease off for President Tinubu with about two years to the end of his first term as the governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the party’s National Assembly caucus and other members of the APC have thrown their weight behind the president’s re-election.

The vote of confidence passed on the president came at the APC National Summit held on yesterday at the Banquet hall of the Presidential Villa.

The event, which was meant to review the midterm performance of the Tinubu administration was turned to an endorsement summit for his re-election bid.

Chairman of Progressives Governors’ Forum and the Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma, revealed that APC governors met at their meeting on Wednesday and expressed satisfaction on the midterm performance of the president.

“As I speak only this afternoon, members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum met at my lodge and took five different decisions to bring to the leadership and members of our great party. Taking advantage of this summit that we are satisfied with, the mid term review and performance evaluation report of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“We are aware that Nigerian nation is moving in the right direction, economically, socially and politically, and that we are convinced that under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria will get to her destination faster in prosperity.

“We have made the resolution of these governors that the president to be used and be Adopted as our flag bearer for 2027 presidential election, for the second time in office.

“That the governors produced by All Progressive Congress are hereby charged to take responsibility to manage federal government policies, occupied the political space in their domains and take responsibility for winning all elections in their states,” he said.

Uzodinma, therefore, moved a motion that Tinubu be adopted as the party’s candidate in 2027, and the motion was seconded by the Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani.

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, on his part, said though things were difficult for Tinubu in 2023, he could see everything turning around for him in 2027.

Akpabio recalled that during the campaign for 2023 elections, large rallies in some regions were organised but when votes were announced, Tinubu could not get 25 per cent from those regions.

“So, there is no need for eloquent speeches. Let the results that will come in 2027 reflect the action and the speeches that we are saying here today.

“Please note that in politics, it’s not over until it’s over. It’s the tree that bears the sweetest fruit that also gets the highest amount of stones.

“So, everything said here will show that yes, you are on course. You did it in Lagos, you are doing it in Nigeria. Even Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, has changed. The diplomats have confirmed that. This was not the way it was before you came. The economy has changed.

“But the reality is that we are not there yet, and we don’t want them there. Of course, Mischief makers are still meeting in the night, so politics is the game of witchcraft. They meet in the night, and things change in the day.”

On a lighter note, Akpabio faulted Uzodinma for moving the motion  to pass vote of confidence in Tinubu, saying as members of the legislative arm, they were in better position to move the motion  while Abbas seconded.

On that premise, he said, “I move that the president be returned as the candidate of the APC in 2027 and as the President of Nigeria.”

The motion was seconded by the Speaker of the  House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas.

Abbas, while speaking, noted that as they  turned their gaze on 2027, they must acknowledge both the achievements they  had made and the challenges that lay ahead.

He said this was the time for every APC stakeholder to intensify grassroots engagement,  articulate the achievements of the administration in clear and compelling terms.

Abbas added: “Now is the time for every APC stakeholder to take our message directly to our communities. An electoral victory in 2027 will not be won on paper alone. It can only be secured by the confidence we inspire among our people.

“We can only inspire confidence by demonstrating how our policies are improving people’s lives and how they will continue to enhance the lives of Nigerians.

“All of us must effectively market the successes of the Tinubu Administration, specifically the recovery of fiscal health, the job creation drive, the expansion of infrastructure, and the security gains.

“Every APC governor, every APC Senator and Member, every Minister and Commissioner, every Special Adviser and Assistant, every Board Member, and indeed every political appointee of this government must also collaborate with the president to translate his initiatives into tangible benefits that resonate with citizens across every ward.”

In his remarks, the National Chairman of APC, Abdullahi Ganduje, said the forum was not only meant to serve as a convergence of ideas and ideals but as a moment of reflection on where the party  stood, what it has achieved, and what lay ahead for it and the country.

He said at the heart of their current political and developmental journey was the Renewed Hope Agenda – a bold and necessary blueprint put forth by Tinubu.

He stressed that the agenda was not just a political slogan; it was a comprehensive vision aimed at resetting the foundations of governance, restoring economic vibrancy, and instilling a renewed sense of national purpose.

He said when the president campaigned on the Renewed Hope Agenda, he was not offering empty slogans, he was presenting a contract with the Nigerian people, a bold vision for economic revitalisation, institutional renewal, and inclusive development.

According to him, “Barely two years now into his administration, we can confidently say that Renewed Hope is no longer a vision on paper, it is a reality in motion.”

Ganduje noted that as the governing party, they must rise as the first and most steadfast defenders and implementers of this vision and as progressives.

“As I stand before you, I must stress this truth: we cannot go into the future divided, unprepared, or reactive. The challenges of our nation require a cohesive, disciplined, and ideologically sound party.

“Our goal must not only be to win elections, but to lead with purpose, to earn the trust of Nigerians continuously, and to inspire belief in governance again,” he added.

APC N’Central Backs Tinubu’s Re-election

At another function, the APC North Central zone has also endorsed Tinubu  to run for another tenure of four years ahead of the 2027 elections.

The political leaders from the zone made their decision known on Wednesday night in Abuja at the APC North Central zone stakeholders’ meeting.

The motion to endorse Tinubu for 2027 was moved by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.

While reading the communique after the meeting, the Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdulahi Sule commended the president for the numerous developmental strides being executed across the North Central zone.

The communique was jointly signed by Akume, Governors Abdulrahman Abdulrazak of Kwara, Sule, Rev. Fr .dr. Hyacinth Alia of Benue, Umar Bago of  Niger, Usman Ododo of Kogi, Senator Simon Lalong, and  Mr. Zaphani Jisalo, Minister of Special Duties.

Sule added that from infrastructure projects, road rehabilitation, educational upgrades, to rural electrification and agricultural initiatives, the positive impact of his Renewed Hope Agenda was gradually transforming the region into a hub of opportunity and growth.

The governor stressed that the region acknowledged these efforts as a clear demonstration of the president’s sincere commitment to equity and national development.

“We, the leaders and critical stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the North Central Geo-Political Zone of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, after extensive deliberations on matters of national importance and regional development at our strategic meeting held on Tuesday, May 21st, 2025, at the Lagos/Osun Hall, Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, hereby resolve as follows:

“Unanimously pass a vote of confidence in the President’s leadership and endorsement for second term:

“Having critically examined the current trajectory of national governance and noting the courage, foresight, and tenacity with which President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has steered the ship of State amidst daunting challenges, we unanimously pass a vote of confidence in his administration.

“In furtherance of this conviction, we wholeheartedly endorse President Tinubu to contest for a second term in office as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria come 2027, in order to consolidate the gains of his reforms and bring them to full fruition.”

The North Central leaders also passed a vote of confidence in the leadership of the party led by Ganduje for promoting internal democracy, party unity, and progressive governance.

Sule added that they affirmed their unwavering loyalty and alignment with the core ideals of the APC.

Earlier, the Coordinator of North Central APC and Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrazaq said despite the transitional inconveniences of the early stage, the president’s reforms were bearing good fruits, and the future looks bright.

Noting that this was clear from all measurable economic indices, Abdukrazaq commended the president for the national forest guards policy, saying the bold effort placedlocal communities at the heart of our national security strategy.

According to him, “It is a policy that we are confident will effectively secure our forests and curtail activities that are inimical to the safety of lives and property and the territorial integrity of our nation. The North Central has never been this favoured in national reckoning. Yet our region stands to gain a lot more.

At this meeting, Ganduje commended the president for providing the enabling environment for the party and for also executing reforms that are positive, making the ruling party attractive for people to feel that APC was a party to join.

The meeting was also attended by Deputy Senate Leader, Senator Oyelola Ashiru, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, Information Minister, Mohammed Idris, Minister of Water Resources, Prof. Joseph Utsev.

Others were former Governors Yahaya Bello, Tanko Almakura, Abubakar Sani Bello (Niger), Ahmed Wase, former deputy speaker, House of Representatives; Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, among others.

Opposition Coalition Mulls Its Options

Opposition coalition against the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections, has entered a new phase with the appointment of a two-term Senate President, David Mark, as its chairman.

Also, a  former Minister of Power and Steel and former governor of Cross River State, Liyel Imoke was appointed the chairman of a committee to determine whether to continue with existing political party.

At the same time, the immediate past Minister of Transportation and ex-governor of Rivers state, Rotimi Amaechi, was nominated to chair the committee to consider the registration of a new political party against the APC in the 2027 general election.

These details were disclosed by the convener of the League of Northern Democrats, Dr. Umar Ardo, after a meeting where they resolved to join the coalition of opposition against the APC.

In a communique signed by the chairman of the League of Northern Democrats, Ibrahim Shekarau and Ardo, they said, ‘’We resolved to support the National Opposition Coalition Group chaired by Senator President David Mark in driving the transitional politics towards the 2027 general election.’’

He also said the National coalition group against APC appointed two committees to decide whether to join any of the existing political parties and to register a new political party for the coalition to join.

Accordingly, Ardo said, “Dr. Liyel Imoke is to  chairs committee on whether to continue the coalition on  existing political party. Also, Rotimi Amaechi is to  chair the  committee whether to register a new party for the coalition exercise.”

On the League of Northern Democrats, Ardo explained that, ‘’We approved our constitution and minutes of previous meetings and directed the legal adviser to conclude the process of the registration of LND as an association.

‘’We resolved to contribute in the dialogue on either registering a new political party or fuse into an existing one.

‘’We resolved that our first option is to register a new party in order to accommodate many independent members of the larger established political parties who currently feel reluctant to move into a smaller party but who are willing to move out to form a new party.

‘’In the alternative, to fuse into an existing party as a primary and necessary alternative. We resolve to coordinate a meeting of a larger various northern groups as agreed a few weeks ago in the ACF meeting in Kaduna to solidify northern positions.

“We resolve to mobilise Northern Nigerians to pressure the government, particularly the NASS leadership, to uphold the provisions of the Constitution which they swore to do.

‘’To this end, we resolve to mobilise Nigerians to a civil resistance against the leaderships of NASS to force them to declare the seats of all the legislators in Delta and Kebbi States, who cross-carpeted to other political parties as stipulated by Sections of the constitution.

‘’We resolved to engage the 19 Northern governors on their seeming inertia to the terrible situation in the North – endemic poverty, state of destitution of our people, insecurity, unemployment, and the appalling economic crisis in the region, which we concluded is as a result of poor governance at the state and local government levels,” the communique stated.

Amaechi’s C’ttee Submits Report

Meanwhile, the Rotimi Amaechi committee of the opposition coalition has submitted its report, recommending the formation of a new political party with the name All Democratic Alliance (ADA).

A document sighted by THISDAY, and signed by Amaechi, titled: ‘’Justification for the Founding of the All Democratic Alliance (ADA) and dated May 20, claimed that, ‘’The All Democratic Alliance (ADA) is envisioned not merely as a political party but as a national renaissance movement, deeply rooted in democratic idealism.”

On justice, and visionary leadership, the document stated that, “ADA offers a credible, people-centered alternative to existing political formations, aiming to unify all or most of the nation’s opposition groups and individuals and re-establish trust and common purpose amongst themselves.”

Discussing the strategic timing and political opportunity, the report stated that, “Rising public disillusionment with both ruling and opposition parties has created a political vacuum.

“ADA is uniquely positioned to capture the aspirations of patriotic elites, youths, professionals, and disenchanted voters. Offers a real alternative to the current political system and Channel the growing demand for national healing and competent leadership.”

Hinting at the guiding philosophy and ethical compass, it stated that, ‘’ADA is founded on moral clarity, drawing inspiration from the enduring symbolism of a Tree— representing: Strength and Stability, Wisdom and Knowledge, Growth and Renewal.”

With heritage and tradition, it stated that the party “seeks to redefine leadership in Nigeria based on vision, merit, ethical governance and public spirit.

‘’The Logo, Manifesto and Constitution encapsulate the symbolic power of the party, its Vision and Mission and Core Objectives, all outlining the ideological principles and values on which the party stands,” adding that, “The Motto of the party is Justice for All.”

In view of this, the committee stated that, ‘’The All Democratic Alliance is not just viable — it is imperative for Nigeria’s survival and renewal. Its founding principles, structure and vision reflect a strategic, moral and political readiness to contest and win the 2027 general elections.”

The Sub-Committee therefore urged the coalition to ‘’Adopt the registration of a new political party asits first approach to engaging the incumbent for the 2023-2027 transitional elections.

The report noted that the Sub-committee was constituted about two weeks ago to look at the feasibility of registering a new political party as a viable vehicle to successfully challenge the incumbent government in the 2027 general election.

‘’The Sub-committee met, discussed extensively on the subject matter and arrived at two resolutions. First, it formulated its arguments justifying the registration of a new political party as the best approach in successfully defeating the incumbent. Second, it recommends and provides a name, logo, manifesto and constitution of the new party.

‘’A new party serves as a common platform with a unified all opposition groups around a new vision and purpose, thus overcoming fragmentation and distrust among the diverse opposition groups;

‘’Public Perception of Authentic Change: Nigerians are more likely to support a new, purpose-driven party that symbolises a clean break from old brands.

‘’Moral High Ground: Attempting registration tests democratic institutions. If blocked (which is highly unlikely if a public approach is taken), it exposes government and INEC bias, thereby rallying public sympathy and international support;

‘’Legal and Political Leverage: Denial of registration offers grounds for judicial redress (e.g., writ of mandamus), strengthening the opposition’s case for electoral reforms;

‘’Confusion and Weakening of Incumbents: The exodus of credible opposition leaders to a new platform would destabilise existing parties (PDP, APC, NNPP, LP), creating internal turmoil;

‘’Mobilization Power: A new party can be built with broad coalitions of all critical opposition stakeholders from inception, avoiding legacy baggage and appealing to youth, independents and disenfranchised Nigerians;

‘’Narrative Control: A newly formed party can craft and own its political narrative and brand identity from scratch, unlike co-opting an existing one with historical liabilities;

‘’Symbolic Rebirth of Democracy: Represents democratic renewal and reawakening, offering a psychologically powerful alternative to politics-as-usual; and

‘’Testing Democratic Integrity: The process of registration challenges the fairness of INEC and promotes accountability and transparency in the system early enough before elections.

“Registering a new political party is not just a tactical maneuver – it is a bold strategic act that redefines the opposition’s purpose, unites diverse stakeholders, mobilises public sentiment, creates an authentic alternative to entrenched political forces and spontaneously galvanizes popular momentum. It is the clearest path to inspiring hope, energising voters and transforming Nigeria’s democratic future.”

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Ribadu: Despite Challenges Nigeria Safer Under Tinubu’s Watch

Ribadu: Despite Challenges Nigeria Safer Under Tinubu’s Watch

•Says 13,543 terrorists killed, 124,408 surrendered in two years  

•Discloses oil exploration to resume in Ogoniland 30 years after

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, yesterday said the federal government and security services in the country had substantially decimated multi-faceted security challenges inherited by the Bola Tinubu administration.

The NSA said that through combined security efforts, atrocities such as mass killings, wanton destruction, mass abductions and terrorist attacks on government installations had been contained.

Speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC)  National Summit to mark the two years of the Tinubu administration, the NSA said the administration inherited five interractible crises across the country.

He revealed that as a sign of security improvement, oil exploration will soon resume in Ogoniland, Rivers state, nearly 30 years after the disruption of production in the area.

“For us to appreciate where we are today, it’s important to reflect on where we were before the coming of this administration on May 29, 2023,” Ribadu said.

He recalled that terrorists had a field day up until 2022 when Nigeria witnessed attacks on the Abuja-Kaduna train, attack on Kuje Prison, a church in Owo and an army battalion in Bwari, Abuja.

He listed the inherited security challenges to include:  Boko Haram in the North-east, armed banditry in the North-west, secessionist agitations by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in the South-east, Niger Delta unrest in the South-south and communal conflicts/herder-farmer conflicts especially in the North-central.

Ribadu explained that before 2023 over 35,000 and 12,000 persons were claimed by the Boko Haram and banditry crises, respectively, while millions of people were rendered homeless in the affected areas.

The NSA said that with the security agencies working as a team, challenges such as the sit-at-home in the South-east and sabotage of oil installations in the Niger Delta had been substantially addressed.

Besides, Ribadu said that over 13,543 Boko Haram elements were neutralised in the past two years while over 11,000 arms were recovered and destroyed from the terrorists.

According to him, 124,408 Boko Haram fighters and their families surrendered to troops since the coming of the current administration, stressing that despite some setbacks, operations were ongoing in Tumbuktu Triangle, Tumbu islands and other enclaves, to smoke out the insurgents.

In his remarks, the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio,  thanked the  president for tackling security challenges in the country. He noted that the president had been able to streamline and strengthen internal security nationwide.

The senate president stated that there are no longer cases of terrorists taking over territories and hoisting of alien flags by Boko Haram in the country.

Also speaking while moving a vote of confidence to adopt the president as sole candidate of the party in 2027 at the event, the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, who spoke on behalf of the 22 governors of the party, acknowledged that in spite of the complexity of the security challenges “progress is evident”.