Tag: Bola Tinubu

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Tinubu brokers settlement of OPL 245 dispute

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday announced the resolution of the long-running dispute over Oil Prospecting Licence (OPL) 245, clearing the path for the development of one of Nigeria’s most commercially significant deepwater oil assets.

The breakthrough followed the signing of a settlement agreement between the Federal Government of Nigeria, ENI, and Nigerian Agip Exploration Limited (NAEL) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The meeting was attended by the Chief Executive Officer of ENI, Claudio Descalzi; the company’s Chief Operating Officer, Guido Brusco; Head of Sub-Saharan Region, Mario Bello; Managing Director of Nigerian Agip Exploration, Fabrizio Bolondi; and the President’s Special Adviser on Energy, Olu Verheijen.

The agreement brings to an end more than 15 years of legal and commercial disputes surrounding the oil block, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most promising deepwater assets.

With the settlement concluded, attention is expected to shift to the Final Investment Decision (FID) for the Zabazaba, Etan deepwater development project, which could add about 150,000 barrels per day to Nigeria’s crude oil production capacity.

President Tinubu described the agreement as a major milestone in his administration’s efforts to resolve legacy disputes, restore investor confidence and unlock the country’s energy potential.

“This resolution sends a clear signal to global investors that Nigeria is prepared to address legacy issues transparently, uphold the rule of law and create a stable environment for long-term capital,” the President said.

The President’s Special Adviser on Energy, Olu Verheijen, said the settlement represented a significant improvement over the 2011 Resolution Agreement and aligns with the regulatory framework established under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

According to her, the revised terms strike a balance between providing investors with the clarity and predictability required for large-scale deepwater investments while ensuring stronger value for the Nigerian federation.

“The revised terms provide investors with the certainty required to proceed with major deepwater investments, while ensuring stronger value accretion and safeguards for the federation,” she said.

The resolution forms part of broader reforms introduced since 2023 to improve Nigeria’s competitiveness in global energy markets. These reforms, anchored in the Petroleum Industry Act and supported by executive policy measures, have begun attracting renewed investor interest and capital inflows into the country’s oil and gas sector.

Verheijen noted that resolving the OPL 245 dispute removes one of the most prominent legacy risks in Nigeria’s upstream industry and reinforces the government’s commitment to predictable regulation, transparent governance and commercially viable investment frameworks.

President Tinubu commended all institutions and stakeholders involved in achieving the settlement, including the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), NNPC Limited and the leadership of ENI.

The administration said the resolution underscores its determination to unlock Nigeria’s strategic energy assets, attract responsible investment and ensure that the nation’s resources translate into economic growth, job creation and long-term prosperity for Nigerians. (Guardian)

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Tunji Disu sets up committee on establishment of state police

Tunji Disu, the inspector-general of police (IGP), has inaugurated a seven-member steering committee on the establishment of state police in Nigeria.

The committee, which will be led by Olu Ogunsakin, a professor of police studies, was inaugurated on Wednesday.

Speaking during the inauguration, Disu, who was recently appointed as IGP, asked the committee to propose an operational framework for the establishment and coordination of state police structures.

The IGP asked the committee to review issues pertaining to training, recruitment, resource allocation, and oversight mechanisms necessary for the state police structures.


Disu said the decentralisation of the police will enable state government and local authorities to respond to specific security challenges within their jurisdictions.

“It is my greatest privilege to formally inaugurate this committee on state policing. The task before this committee is both significant and timely as it speaks to our reflective demand to strengthen Nigeria’s security,” he said

“The committee we are inaugurating today has a critical responsibility. Your work will help shape the framework through which state policing may operate in Nigeria in a manner that strengthens, rather than fragments, our national security system.

“In carrying out this assignment, your deliberations must be guided by professionalism, objectivity, and a clear appreciation of the unique complexities of policing a diverse nation such as ours.

“Among other responsibilities, the Committee is expected to: review existing policing models within and outside Nigeria; assess community security needs and emerging risks across the country; propose an operational framework for the establishment and coordination of State Police structures; address issues relating to recruitment, training, standards, and resource allocation; develop robust accountability and oversight mechanisms to ensure professionalism and public trust.

“If thoughtfully designed and effectively implemented, State Policing holds significant potential benefits for our country.

“By bringing law enforcement closer to communities, state police institutions can deepen local knowledge of security dynamics and enable quicker and more targeted responses to emerging threats.”

Other members of the committee are Bode Ojajuni (secretary), Okebechi Agora, Suleyman Gulma, Ikechukwu Okafor, Tolulope Ipinmisho, and Emmanuel Ojukwu.

On numerous occasions, President Bola Tinubu has promised that his administration will create state police as part of the measures to address the country’s insecurity.

Recently, Tinubu asked both chambers of the national assembly to amend the 1999 constitution to create a legal framework for the establishment of state police.

The national assembly has commenced the process of amending the 1999 constitution to accommodate the establishment of state. (TheCable)

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Tinubu approves postings of 65 ambassadors

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the postings of 65 ambassadors, comprising 31 non-career and 34 career diplomats, to Nigeria’s foreign missions across the world and the United Nations.

The envoys had earlier been confirmed by the Senate in December 2025 following their nomination by the President.

A statement on Friday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had already secured agreement from the United Kingdom for Nigeria’s High Commissioner-designate, Ambassador Aminu Dalhatu, and from France for Ambassador Ayo Oke.

According to the Presidency, the ministry has also transmitted the names of the remaining envoys to their respective host countries, requesting diplomatic clearance in line with established international protocol.

“President Tinubu has directed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs should immediately commence the induction programme for the ambassadors-designate and High Commissioners,” the statement said.

Among the prominent non-career ambassadors approved for postings are former Adamawa South lawmaker, Senator Grace Bent, who will serve in Lomé, Togo; former presidential adviser, Senator Ita Enang, posted to South Africa; former Abia State governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, assigned to Spain; and former Independent National Electoral Commission chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, posted to Qatar.

Other notable postings include former Chief of Naval Staff and Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), to the Philippines; former Interior Minister, Lt-Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (rtd), to China; former Ogun State deputy governor, Olufemi Pedro, to Australia; and former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ayodele Oke, to France.

Also appointed are former presidential aide and media personality, Reno Omokri, to Mexico, former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, to Germany; Senator Jimoh Ibrahim as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, and Prof. Isaac Adewole, former Minister of Health, to Canada.

Other non-career envoys include Barrister Chioma Ohakim to Poland, Senator Nora Daduut to South Korea, former intelligence chief Ayodele Oke to France, Yakubu Gambo to Saudi Arabia, and Lateef Kayode Are to the United States.

For the 34 career ambassadors, Ambassador Nwabiola Ezenwa Chukwumeka has been posted to Côte d’Ivoire; Ambassador Besto Maimuna Ibrahim to Niger; Ambassador Monica Okwuchukwu Enebeli to São Tomé and Príncipe; Ambassador Mohammed Mahmud Lele to Algeria; and Ambassador Endoni Syndoph Paebi to Burkina Faso.

Ambassador Ahmed Mohammed Monguno will serve in Egypt; Ambassador Jane Adams Michael to Jamaica; Ambassador Alexandra Clark-Omeru to Zambia; Ambassador Chima Geoffrey Lioma David to Mali; and Ambassador Yvonne Ehinosen Odumah to Equatorial Guinea.

Ambassador Segun Ige will represent Nigeria in Lebanon, while Ambassador Ruben Abimbola Samuel has been posted to Italy, and Ambassador Ogechukwu Kingsley Onaga to Mozambique.

Other postings include Ambassador Magaji Umar to the Democratic Republic of Congo; Ambassador Muhammad Saidu Dahiru to India; Ambassador Abdussalam Habu Zayyad to Senegal; Ambassador Shehu Ilu Barde to Ghana; and Ambassador Aminu Nasir to Ethiopia. (Nation)

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Taiwo Oyedele says 12 states have enacted tax harmonisation law

Taiwo Oyedele, minister of state for finance-designate, says at least 12 states have enacted the tax harmonisation law.

The tax harmonisation law is part of the broader tax reform agenda introduced by the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

On January 1, the president said harmonised tax laws will boost the federal government’s capacity to fund infrastructure projects.

According to NAN, Oyedele spoke on Wednesday in Abuja during the graduation ceremony of 5,900 young entrepreneurs trained by the MTN Foundation on entrepreneurship, business and innovation.

He said 13 other states have already presented the proposed law before their respective state houses of assembly for consideration, while others are at different stages of implementing the reforms.

The minister-designate added that the tax reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu are designed to modernise Nigeria’s fiscal framework, support business growth, protect vulnerable groups and reset the country’s economic structure.

Oyedele said the states tax harmonisation law seeks to eliminate nuisance taxes and prevent harassment of citizens under any guise.

He added that the law will simplify the tax system, protect taxpayers’ rights and address unfair tax treatment.

“Transparency, fiscal discipline, responsibility and accountability remain critical pillars of an effective tax system,” he said.

On June 26, 2025, Tinubu signed the four tax reform bills into law.

The president said the reforms are not about raising taxes, but about creating a structural reset, driving harmonisation and strengthening the social contract. (TheCable)

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Tinubu decorates Disu as Acting IGP

President Bola Tinubu has decorated Acting Inspector-General of Police, Mr Tunji Disu with his new rank at the State House, Abuja.

The decoration ceremony, which followed his swearing-in, took place at the first floor office of the President during an expanded session attended by top government and security officials including National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu; Chief of Staff to the President, Hon Femi Gbajabiamila; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and the immediate past IGP, Kayode Egbetokun.

Tinubu, who pinned the new insignia on Disu’s uniform commended the outgoing IGP Egbetokun for his service to the nation.

Disu’s appointment came just 48 days before his scheduled retirement on April 13, 2026, when he would have reached the mandatory retirement age of 60 years.

However, under the amended Police Act, which allows Inspector-General of Police to serve a four year tenure regardless of age, Disu may remain for the next couple of years.

Until his elevation, Disu served as Assistant Inspector-General of Police at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon, Lagos.

He previously held strategic roles, including Commissioner of Police in Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. (ThisDay)

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Disu replaces Egbetokun as 23rd Inspector-General of Police

A source within the Police Service Commission has told The Guardian that Kayode Egbetokun has been removed as the 22nd Inspector-General of Police by President Bola Tinubu.

According to the source, Egbetokun is expected to be replaced by Tunji Disu, an Assistant Inspector-General of Police recently posted to oversee the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon, Lagos.

The source disclosed that Egbetokun was at the Presidential Villa on Monday, February 23, 2026, where he was reportedly directed to begin preparations for the handover of office.

Egbetokun’s tenure as Inspector-General was marked by a series of controversies, with his extended stay in office, despite statutory retirement provisions, forming the centrepiece of public criticism.

His tenure was extended beyond the mandatory retirement threshold of 60 years of age or 35 years in service, a move that drew sustained criticism from civil society groups, legal experts and commentators. Critics argued that the extension violated established police service rules and undermined institutional discipline.

Among the controversies that trailed his leadership were allegations surrounding the promotion of Bukola Kuti to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police. Critics alleged that her perceived closeness to the Inspector-General conferred undue advantage, fuelling accusations of favouritism and nepotism within the Nigeria Police Force. These allegations were denied by police authorities.

Further controversy arose following claims that ₦100 million from Anambra State’s security vote was traced to the bank account of Victor, Egbetokun’s son. The allegation sparked widespread public concern over the possible diversion of state security funds for personal benefit.

Rather than permitting an independent investigation into the claims, critics alleged that police authorities deployed institutional resources to pursue legal action against individuals and media platforms that reported the matter, deepening suspicions of corruption and abuse of office. Police authorities, however, maintained that the reports were defamatory.

During this period, Egbetokun’s office was repeatedly in the news over legal actions against journalists and activists. He initiated multiple charges against activist Omoyele Sowore and SaharaReporters after Sowore publicly described him as an “illegal IGP.”

The dispute escalated into protracted legal battles, with the Federal High Court issuing injunctions restricting further publications relating to Egbetokun and members of his family. Critics interpreted these court actions as attempts to stifle dissent and weaken press freedom.

Following additional reports on alleged promotions and financial improprieties, further court orders were issued restraining media organisations from publishing reports concerning Egbetokun, his son Victor, and Bukola Kuti.

Observers argued that, rather than addressing the allegations through transparent and independent investigations, the police leadership appeared more focused on legal countermeasures against critics—reinforcing public perceptions of an embattled Inspector-General relying on state authority to defend personal and professional interests. (Guardian)

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Rivers, Kano, FCT polls reflect confidence in Tinubu – Lagos APC

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has described the outcome of the recent by-elections in Rivers and Kano States, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as a clear referendum on the presidency of Bola Tinubu.

In a statement on Sunday by its spokesman, Mogaji Seye Oladejo, the party expressed appreciation to the people of the affected constituencies and Nigerians at large for what it termed overwhelming support for the ruling party.

According to the Lagos APC, the resounding victories recorded by its candidates reaffirm the electorate’s confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership and the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The party maintained that the results demonstrate public endorsement of ongoing economic reforms, infrastructural expansion, and institutional strengthening initiatives at both federal and state levels.

“The outcome of the by-elections stands as a clear and unmistakable referendum on the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the progressive ideals guiding governance in our nation,” the statement read.

The party argued that despite what it described as attempts by opposition elements to misrepresent the direction of the country, voters delivered a decisive verdict at the polls. It added that the results reflected Nigerians’ recognition of what it called bold leadership and courageous reforms, as well as an understanding that nation-building requires patience and continuity.

The Lagos APC further stated that the elections underscored what it described as the limited electoral impact of opposition rhetoric and social media activism, noting that digital prominence did not translate into votes at the ballot box.

It described the victories as a major boost for the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence that the momentum generated by the by-elections signals broader national support for the APC.

The party also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting the elections and praised security agencies for maintaining peace and order throughout the process, thereby enabling citizens to exercise their civic responsibilities in a secure environment.

Oladejo lauded party faithful, campaign teams, and volunteers for their dedication and grassroots engagement, which he said contributed significantly to the outcome.

He reiterated the Lagos APC’s unwavering support for President Tinubu and called on all Nigerians, including members of the opposition, to collaborate in building a stronger, more prosperous, and united nation. (Guardian)

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Poly lecturers hail Tinubu for Ekiti road expansion

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics, Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti Chapter, has lauded the Federal Government for the expansion of Ado-Ijan-Ikare Road in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, which is the road leading to the institution.

The lecturers, in a statement by the ASUP-FPA Chairman, Caleb Adeosun, and the Publicity Secretary, Oyewale Oyelola, made available in Ado Ekiti on Thursday, also appreciated the efforts of the senators, Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central), Yemi Adaramodu (South) and Cyril Fasuyi (North), “for facilitating the expansion of the major access road to the polytechnic, which havre been in a deplorable state for many years”.

“ASUP-FPA appreciates the efforts of the three senators representing Ekiti State at the National Assembly who amplified our concerns over the deplorable state of the polytechnic road.

“Particularly, we appreciate the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who invited union leaders to a meeting at his constituency office in March 2024 and gave the polytechnic community assurance after we staged a protest over the deplorable state of Ado–Ijan-Ikare Road,” the lecturers stated.

They, however, urged the senators “to continue to perform their oversight functions and ensure the delivery of quality work by the contractor handling the project”.

The union, while appreciating the senators representing the state for the ongoing expansion work, said, “We know their efforts led to the development and steady progress on the road.

“Our union does not only agitate or criticise. As a progressive-minded union, we also applaud the government when we deem it fit”, the lecturers stated.

The union also praised Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, for the construction of the Ring Road linking the Ado Ekiti – Ijan Road to Afao – Iworoko – Ado Ekiti Road.

They said, “The Ring Road is a great relief to staff members of the polytechnic because it has reduced traffic on the institution’s road and travel time.

“The union also appreciated the Founder of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola, for “consistently using his resources to carry out palliative rehabilitation on the Ado – Ijan – Ikare Road over the years”.

Recall that recently, contractors began rehabilitation work on the Ado – Ijan axis of the Ado – Ijan – Ikare Road, a federal road linking Ekiti State with states including Ondo and Kogi, which has been in deplorable condition over the years.

Establishments including Federal Polytechnic, Ado Ekiti, ABUAD, Ekiti Knowledge Zone and Ekiti Cargo International Airport are situated along the Ado – Ijan axis of the federal road. (Punch)

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Wike hails Tinubu for signing Electoral Act Amendment Bill promptly

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has hailed President Bola Tinubu for the prompt signing of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2026 into law.

Wike, in a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Mr Lere Olayinka, in Abuja on Wednesday, described the development as “apt.”

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Tinubu on Wednesday signed the Act into law, which was passed by the National Assembly on Tuesday.

The amendment comes amid intense public debate over the electronic transmission of election results in real time.

The harmonised report of the bill, including the contentious Section 60(3), was passed by both chambers of the National Assembly.

Wike described Tinubu’s assent as a demonstration of his commitment to deepening the democratic process by making elections more credible.

According to him, the development has ended unnecessary protests over the Electoral Act.

“Democracy has always been a work in progress due to the evolving democratic process. However, we will keep getting better by always looking into the Electoral Act with a view to strengthening our democratic process.

“I, therefore, congratulate Mr President and the National Assembly members for playing their roles in this dispensation to make democracy stronger.

“Particularly, I commend the President for not keeping Nigerians waiting for more than 24 hours before signing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill into law,” he said. (Punch)

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Tinubu signs Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 into law

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday signed the Electoral Act 2026 (Amendment) Bill into law, setting the legal framework for the conduct of the 2027 general elections just days after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) unveiled the official election timetable.

The brief signing ceremony was held at the State House, Abuja, at about 5:00 p.m., with principal officers of the National Assembly and senior government officials in attendance.

The amendment bill was passed by both chambers of the National Assembly on Tuesday following weeks of legislative consideration and public engagement on key electoral reforms.

The new law is expected to introduce adjustments aimed at strengthening transparency, improving logistics and addressing operational gaps observed in previous election cycles.

The assent comes against the backdrop of heightened national debate over the electronic transmission of election results, which has remained one of the most contentious aspects of Nigeria’s electoral process.

Civil society organisations, opposition parties and pro-democracy groups have in recent weeks intensified advocacy for mandatory real-time electronic transmission of results from polling units directly to INEC’s central database.

Only last week, protesters gathered at the National Assembly complex in Abuja, urging lawmakers to enshrine live result transmission in the amended law.

The demonstrators argued that instantaneous electronic uploads would significantly curb manipulation during collation, enhance transparency and rebuild public trust in election outcomes.

However, the push has faced resistance from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and some electoral stakeholders who caution that Nigeria’s uneven telecommunications coverage could undermine full digital implementation.

They have instead canvassed a phased or hybrid system that would permit manual collation in areas where network infrastructure is unreliable or non-existent, while electronic transmission operates where technically feasible.

Observers say the signing of the amendment signals the administration’s intention to conclude electoral reforms well ahead of the 2027 polls, giving INEC sufficient time to align regulations, deploy technology and conduct voter education.

Political analysts also note that early legal clarity may reduce pre-election disputes and provide a clearer operational roadmap for political parties and candidates.

Further details of the specific provisions contained in the amended Act are expected to be released by the Presidency and the National Assembly in the coming days. (Guardian)