Key players in the aviation, maritime, rail, road transportation, and security sectors have strongly supported the Federal Government’s plan to reposition the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) as an independent multimodal accident investigation agency.

The endorsement was made during a high-level stakeholder engagement at the Office of the National Security Adviser’s (ONSA) Joint Intelligence Board Hall in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, where attendees demanded improved coordination between national security response mechanisms and transportation safety oversight.

In order to discuss the execution of the new reporting structure authorized by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in March 2026, key government officials, transportation regulators, emergency response agencies, and security institutions convened by ONSA.

As a result of the new arrangement, the NSIB will no longer be supervised by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and will instead report directly to the Presidency through ONSA.

According to stakeholders, the reform is a strategic response to the growing complexity of incidents and catastrophes related to transportation, many of which now touch on issues relating to infrastructure protection, intelligence management, emergency response coordination, and national security.

The NSIB’s Director-General, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., spoke during the interaction and characterized the move to the Presidency as a significant institutional shift that will improve interagency cooperation, operational independence, and investigative transparency.

“We are still accountable for prevention rather than punishment. The Bureau identifies systemic safety vulnerabilities, ascertains the likely causes of accidents, and makes suggestions to stop such incidents in the future. We don’t control, prosecute, or assign blame,” stated Badeh.

In investigations involving various authorities or occurrences with broader national security ramifications, he continued, the new structure will enhance occurrence notification times, evidence retention, and coordinated response.

Maintaining Public Confidence
Mallam Nuhu Ribadu stated in his speech that the reform to remove bureaucratic bottlenecks, bolster investigative neutrality, and create a more coordinated national transportation safety framework was authorized by the presidency.

He stated that ONSA would promote institutional coordination and monitoring, especially where inquiries entail operational or systemic flaws related to sectoral agencies.

He emphasized that in order to maintain public confidence, impartiality, and professional transparency, an independent reporting structure was required.

The post Stakeholders Endorse Presidential Framework For NSIB appeared first on TheNigerian.

People involved in the Borno State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have backed Abdullahi Musa Askira, the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, for the Borno South Senatorial District in the 2027 general election.

The endorsement means that there might be a race against Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, a long-time member of the National Assembly who has represented the district for several terms.

The stakeholders made their choice after talking to people in all nine of the district’s local government areas. This decision came after more and more people called for power rotation and more inclusive representation in the zone.

Sule Gambo, a key figure in the region’s political development, spoke for the group and said that the demand for change was based on what had happened in the past. He remembered that during the Second Republic, leaders from Askira/Uba supported moving the senatorial seat to Gwoza for fairness and inclusion.

He said that the people of Askira/Uba were the ones who started this deal.

“We all agreed that the seat should move to Gwoza so that they would feel like they belonged,” he said.

Gambo, on the other hand, said in a statement yesterday that the idea of rotation had been ignored. He said that after the late Senator Mohammed Mahdi’s term ended, the seat stayed in Gwoza instead of moving to other local government areas in the district.

“The senatorial seat should move between Chibok, Damboa, Gwoza, and Askira/Uba.” He said, “Sadly, this hasn’t been the case for a long time.”

Gambo told party members to support the Deputy Speaker and said, “By the will of God, the time has come for Askira/Uba.” One of our great sons, Engineer Abdullahi Askira, has expressed interest, and we want to make sure that the principle of rotation is followed.

Tafu Malla, a well-known female politician, praised Askira’s grassroots efforts from a gender perspective, saying that he supported initiatives to create jobs, improve agriculture, and empower women.

Malla said, “Askira really does have an open-door policy and is always there for the poor.” She also said that women were especially grateful for his work in helping young people find jobs.

Hawa Mai-Musa, a retired Permanent Secretary and former Special Adviser from Chibok Local Government Area, also spoke out, saying that after years of one axis being in charge, fairness is needed.

“We’re busy with political wars while others are bringing federal projects to their areas. We need Engr. She said, “Bring Askira’s professional and legislative experience to the Senate.”

The proposed “Savannah State” is still a big issue in the campaign. Askira’s support for the new state has made him a household name. Supporters think that a senator who is dedicated to the cause would help speed up the constitutional process at the National Assembly.

Political analysts noted that the “Ndume Factor” is still strong, despite the growing support for his candidacy. This is because he has a lot of experience in the legislature and has been politically influential for a long time. Still, the coordinated support for Askira suggests a strategic effort to change the political situation in Borno South.

For now, the Deputy Speaker’s camp is staying cautious and waiting for the APC leadership to tell them what to do as the race for 2027 heats up.

Stakeholders said that his rise to power was a necessary step toward restoring fairness and political balance in the district.

The post Stakeholders Back Borno Deputy Speaker Askira for Senate Bid appeared first on TheNigerian.

Before the All Progressives Congress (APC) State House of Assembly primaries in Akwa Ibom State, political leaders in the Ikot Ekpene state constituency said they would not accept any kind of consensus candidacy or automatic ticket for an unpopular candidate for the Ikot-Ekpene/Obot Akara State constituency seat.

They said that this kind of move was not only undemocratic, but it would also make the party more likely to lose the general elections if they picked a candidate who was not popular.

It could be remembered that the governor, Pastor Umo Eno, had asked party members in different places to choose any person they wanted to wave the party’s flag at the primaries in a peaceful and unanimous way.

After a strategic stakeholders meeting of the APC on Wednesday, they held a press conference on Thursday. They said that direct primaries are the only fair, transparent, and democratic way to show what the people want, since delegates and party members would be able to freely exercise their democratic rights without fear of intimidation, inducement, or imposition.

Umoh Amadu, a former APC Assistant Secretary, spoke on behalf of the stakeholders and said that it was wrong for a few people to try to force a candidate on the party who they say does not have real support from the grassroots. He said that this kind of action “is antithetical and unwelcome.”

Amadu said that their opposition to consensus candidacy was not meant to attack or support anyone, but to protect the interests of the two local governments and let the most qualified son or daughter of the area come out on top through direct primary.

Senator Godswill Akpabio and Governor Umo Eno promised to support President Bola Tinubu’s reelection based on their work. However, Amadu said that the people of Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara were not ready to re-elect any representative who had done a terrible job.

He said, “APC Stakeholders in Ikot Ekpene strongly oppose the undemocratic agenda of consensus candidacy/automatic ticket for anyone who wants to run for the Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara State Constituency seat in the upcoming All Progressives Congress (APC) State House of Assembly primaries.”

“Any process, like consensus, that gives a few people the power to go against the wishes of the majority and force candidates on people who don’t really support them at the grassroots level is against the spirit of democracy and a violation of the APC constitution and the Electoral Act 2026’s rules of fair play.

“We beg our leaders not to put the whole community at risk for their own gain. They should let the popular candidate win our primary so that we can win our State constituency and our Governor in the general election.

“This press conference isn’t meant to attack anyone or help any one candidate; it’s meant to help the Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara State constituency so that we can all enjoy the full benefits of democracy.

“We fully support our party, the APC, but we must say that our party can only be united and moving forward if justice, fairness, and respect for the democratic rights of all members are given the attention they deserve.”

The post 2027: APC Stakeholders Oppose Consensus Candidate for Akwa Ibom Assembly Seat appeared first on TheNigerian.

Election stakeholders have been tasked with more responsibility for guaranteeing legitimate elections as the Independent National Electoral Commission, or INEC, steps up its grassroots engagement approach throughout Osun State.

During a series of stakeholder meetings in Osogbo, Ede North, and Ede South local government council areas on Wednesday, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, the state’s INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, issued this charge.

Speaking to attendees from political parties, transportation unions, security services, and civil society organizations, Dr. Agboke emphasized that widespread adherence to electoral rules was crucial to the process’s legitimacy.

He emphasized that without winning the mandate of voters, no contender would be proclaimed victorious.

“Without the votes of the people, no one will win any election in Osun State,” he declared.

The REC clarified that the purpose of holding meetings in every local government area was to include stakeholders in their particular communities.

He referred to the election as unique and urged all parties involved to work together to guarantee a peaceful conclusion.

“Such decentralized consultations were necessary for effective planning and coordination,” he said.

“To ensure success, all stakeholders must work together to manage election activities.”

He revealed that all ad hoc employees hired for the election would have to sign an affidavit of commitment to duty before to deployment as part of efforts to increase accountability, and he cautioned that any violation of the oath would result in legal action.

Additionally, Agboke warned election officials—including collation and presiding officers—not to tamper with the results.

Election-related issues are important and should only engage people who are dedicated to the advancement of democracy.

“Any altered result will be traced to the responsible official, who will be arrested and prosecuted,” he declared.

He also warned members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) not to engage in partisan activities during the election season.

“INEC would collaborate with the union strictly in its organizational capacity,” he said. On election day, a situation room would be set up to keep an eye on compliance.

Although the REC acknowledged that the Commission had been dealing with false information since he took office, he maintained that these difficulties would not interfere with the Osun governorship election preparations.

Additionally, security services used the conference to reassure interested parties that sufficient plans were in place to keep the peace before to, during, and following the elections.

Election officials called for targeted security interventions prior to the polls in their welcoming message, highlighting areas of concern within their jurisdictions, such as areas prone to overcrowding, drug-related activities, and thuggery, particularly in parts of Ede North.

The post Osun 2026: INEC Urges Stakeholders to Ensure Credible Elections appeared first on TheNigerian.

Stakeholders in the South-South have been urged by the Warri Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (WACCIMA) to cease making concessions on matters that jeopardize the Delta ports’ ability to operate to their full potential.

Engineer made the call. Anthony Okoh, President of WACCIMA and the Delta Association of Chambers of Commerce (DACCIMA), on Thursday at the Chambers’ secretariat in Effurun, Delta State, during a courtesy visit by members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Warri Correspondents’ Chapel.

Okoh reaffirmed WACCIMA’s long-standing demand that the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) fully revitalize the Delta ports, emphasizing that their optimal operation will have a significant influence on employment and regional economic activity.

“People in the South-South have a tendency to make compromises. It’s an attitude problem. We need to shift our perspective and cease making concessions to the government,” he declared.

He further linked the poor state of port operations to the deplorable condition of roads across the southern region, explaining that the roads were originally designed based on projected traffic volumes.
“When the pressure exceeds the estimated frequency, it becomes a chain reaction and the roads give way,” Okoh noted.

To address the challenge, he advocated the construction of an efficient railway network linking the Niger Delta states to other major business corridors, arguing that this would reduce the burden of heavy-duty vehicles on the roads and enhance business connectivity.

Okoh also lamented what he described as unsuccessful attempts by the organised private sector to engage Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, on strategies to harness the state’s economic potential.

“The work we do here is voluntary. We give up money and time. Sometimes we hear that our governor is in Brazil or China for business engagements, yet the organised private sector is not involved,” he said.
According to him, WACCIMA plans to invite its national leadership to interface with the state government in order to convince it of the need to adopt the private sector’s development proposals.

“We are lawful and not confrontational. Although some of our members are capable of engaging in large-scale mechanized farming, the government does not provide us with the necessary assistance. Rather, we receive assistance from other private sector players,” he continued.

Okoh suggested that government could play a supportive role by acting as a form of insurance for the organised private sector.

He recalled a plastic recycling project earlier presented to the state government which failed to materialise, noting that while there were many viable ideas capable of boosting the state’s economy, the challenge lay in their practical implementation by government.

Earlier, Chairman of the NUJ Warri Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Okiemute Okpomor, who led the delegation, emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between the media and WACCIMA to help drive economic growth in Delta State.

The post WACCIMA Urges Stakeholders to Resolve Issues Affecting Delta Ports Operations appeared first on TheNigerian.

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, critical stakeholders of the All Democratic Congress (ADC) have called for the zoning of the House of Representatives ticket for Ado, Okpokwu, and Ogbadibo Federal Constituency to Okpokwu Local Government Area.

The call was made during a crucial stakeholders’ meeting attended by all ward chairmen, the party secretary from Edumoga District, and women and youth leaders across the wards in Eke, Edumoga district on Monday.
The stakeholders emphasized that the three local government areas have collectively completed eight years in the position, and for equity, the ticket should now return to Okpokwu.

“The principle of equity demands that Okpokwu produces the next representative for the federal constituency. For too long, the rotation has favoured other areas, and it is now time to ensure fairness and balance.
“This is not just a demand from Okpokwu; it is a call for justice for all three local government areas, Ado, Okpokwu, and Ogbadibo.

“Respecting this agelong arrangement will strengthen unity within the constituency, foster mutual trust among the people and uphold the democratic principles that should guide our party,” said Hon. Christian Abba, an elder from Edumoga.
Mr. Michael Ogwuche, Chairman of the ADC Ward Chairmen Forum, urged other aspirants from outside Okpokwu to step down to allow the zoning arrangement to stand. “We must respect the zoning agreement in Enone to maintain unity within our party and strengthen our chances in the 2027 elections.
“Ignoring this principle could create divisions, weaken our collective strength, and undermine the confidence of our supporters across the constituency. By honouring the rotation and ensuring that Okpokwu produces the next representative, we are not only upholding fairness but also sending a clear message that the ADC is committed to internal democracy, inclusiveness, and the principles of justice that our people expect from us,” he stated.

Hon. Clatus Ejembi and Ogwuche Ejembi also reaffirmed the call, stressing that adherence to zoning will ensure fairness and promote internal democracy within the ADC.
The well-attended meeting underscores strong support for Okpokwu producing the next House of Representatives member, sending a clear message to aspirants and party leaders ahead of the 2027 polls.

The post Enone 2027: ADC stakeholders demand zoning of House of Reps ticket to Okpokwu appeared first on TheNigerian.

In a major push toward industrial energy efficiency, the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), convened a technical review meeting on Thursday to refine key documents under the GEF-UNIDO Project.

The project, “Improving Nigeria’s Industrial Energy Performance and Resource Efficient Cleaner Production through Programmatic Approaches and the Promotion of Innovation in Clean Technology Solutions,” aims to enhance energy efficiency in Nigeria’s industrial sector – a crucial step toward sustainability, economic growth and climate action.

Held at the Prof. I.H. Umar Conference Hall of the Energy Commission of Nigeria in Abuja, the meeting brought together government officials, industry leaders and technical experts to review three vital outputs: the Compendium of Industrial Energy Efficiency Policies and Regulations, the Training Manual on Energy Management Systems (EnMS) and the Industrial Energy Efficiency Database (IEEDb). The event underscored the importance of energy efficiency in Nigeria’s industrial sector, a key driver of the country’s economic development and environmental sustainability goals.

Key agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Environment, the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the Federal Ministry of Power, the Bank of Industry, the National Council on Climate Change and the Nigeria Investment

Promotion Council, participated in the meeting. Both public and private sector representatives engaged in technical discussions aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s industrial energy efficiency framework.
Acting director of the Energy Transition and Linkages Department at ECN, Dr. Shehu Mustafa delivered the opening remarks, emphasising the urgent need for sustainable energy practices in Nigeria’s industrial sector. He noted that improving energy efficiency is critical for Nigeria’s industrial competitiveness and aligns with the country’s global environmental commitments.

The first agenda item was the review of the Compendium of Industrial Energy Efficiency (IEE) Policies and Regulations, which outlines Nigeria’s strategic energy policies, regulations and long-term emission reduction strategies. During the session, stakeholders proposed several amendments to ensure the document remained comprehensive and up to date. One key addition was the Nigeria Long-Term Low Emissions Development Strategy (LT-LEDS), a framework guiding the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Participants also recommended including all relevant regulatory bodies, such as the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and the National Energy Management Agency (NEMSA), to ensure a holistic approach to energy governance.

A significant highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the Training Manual on Energy Management Systems (EnMS) by Industrial Energy Efficiency Project Consultant, Engr. Okon Ekpenyong. Designed to help public and private organisations adopt best energy management practices, the manual serves as a key resource for implementing ISO 50001 standards, a globally recognised framework for energy efficiency.

The manual follows the plan-do-check-act (PDCA) cycle, an internationally accepted method for continuous improvement in management systems. Stakeholders commended the practical approach of the manual, expressing eagerness to participate in future training programs to integrate energy efficiency into their operations. Ekpenyong explained that ISO 50001 provides companies with a structured approach to optimising energy use, reducing operational costs, and achieving long-term sustainability goals. Given the rising energy costs and environmental concerns, the manual is expected to play a vital role in helping Nigerian industries enhance efficiency and competitiveness.

Another major focus of the meeting was the Industrial Energy Efficiency Database (IEEDb), a tool designed to track and analyse industrial energy usage across Nigeria. The database will capture data from key industries, including steel and metal processing, petrochemicals, manufacturing, textiles, and food processing. By aggregating and analysing energy consumption patterns, the database will enable more effective policy-making, better monitoring of energy usage and identification of energy-saving opportunities.

A representative from the Federal Ministry of Power described the IEEDb as a game-changer, noting that it allows policymakers and industries to make data-driven decisions that improve energy efficiency. The database is designed to be interactive and dynamic, allowing stakeholders to visualise energy data by industry type and geographical region. This approach is expected to enhance transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s industrial energy sector.

Nigeria’s industrial sector is a key driver of the economy but is also a major energy consumer. As part of its commitment to the Paris Agreement and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), the Nigerian government is prioritising sustainable energy practices in industrial operations. The GEF-UNIDO Project and the outcomes of this technical review meeting mark a critical step in that journey. By investing in clean technologies and energy-efficient practices, Nigeria aims to improve industrial productivity, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen global competitiveness.

Following this review, the next phase will involve refining the documents based on stakeholder feedback, hosting a National Stakeholder Workshop to present final outputs and training industry players on implementing energy-efficient solutions. In his closing remarks, Dr. Mustafa encouraged continuous collaboration among stakeholders. He emphasised that urgent action is needed to achieve the goals of the NIG IEE/RECP Project, noting that energy efficiency is not just an environmental concern but an economic necessity.

As Nigeria’s energy landscape continues to evolve, the ECN and UNIDO remain committed to building a more sustainable industrial energy framework. The implementation of energy management systems, strengthened regulations, workforce training and data-driven policymaking is expected to drive significant improvements in industrial energy performance. By investing in energy efficiency today, Nigeria is laying the foundation for a more sustainable and competitive industrial sector – one that aligns with global energy transition goals while fostering economic growth and job creation. With continued commitment from government, industry leaders and international partners, Nigeria is poised to become a leader in industrial energy efficiency in Africa.

The post ECN, UNIDO, Key Stakeholders To Boost Nigeria’s Industrial Energy Performance appeared first on TheNigerian.

The post Stakeholders To Protect Nigeria’s $75.6bn Telecom Industry appeared first on TheNigerian.

The post Stakeholders Oppose Tinubu’s Tax Bills appeared first on TheNigerian.

The post ‘Help Us Save Anambra’, Stakeholders Buy APC Guber Form For Edozie Madu appeared first on TheNigerian.