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  • Nigeria’s Power Generation Hits 5713.6MW Per Day

    Nigeria’s Power Generation Hits 5713.6MW Per Day

    The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has announced a new milestone in the country’s power sector, achieving a peak generation of 5,713.6 megawatts (MW) on March 2, 2025. This marks an increase of 170MW compared to the previous peak of 5,543.20MW recorded on February 14, 2025. However, it remains 88MW short of Nigeria’s all-time high of 5,801.60MW, set on March 1, 2021.

    In a statement released on Tuesday, TCN management confirmed that the new peak was recorded at 21:30 hours on March 2, 2025. Additionally, the electricity sector achieved its highest-ever daily energy transmission of 125,542.06 megawatt-hours (MWh) on the same day, surpassing the previous record of 125,159.48MWh set on February 14, 2025, by 382.58MWh.

    This development highlights progress in Nigeria’s power generation and transmission capabilities, signaling potential improvements in the stability of electricity supply across the country. However, analysts emphasize the need for the government and stakeholders to address existing bottlenecks to ensure that increased generation translates into better access to electricity for households and businesses.

    Earlier in February 2025, TCN had announced a peak generation of 5,543.20MW, exceeding the previous record of 5,478.73MW. The General Manager of TCN, Ndidi Mbah, noted that the maximum daily energy of 125,159.48MWh achieved at that time was the highest ever recorded in Nigeria’s electricity industry, surpassing the previous record of 121,674.88MWh set on February 7, 2025, by 3,484.60MWh.

    Mbah also confirmed that TCN successfully transmitted the new peak generation and maximum daily energy to distribution companies’ load centers nationwide for onward delivery to consumers. She highlighted that TCN has a transmission potential of 8,100MW, indicating room for further growth in the sector.

    This achievement builds on earlier milestones, such as the peak transmission of 5,552.80MW recorded on January 8, 2021, which surpassed the previous record of 5,520.40MW set on October 30, 2020. These developments underscore ongoing efforts to enhance Nigeria’s power infrastructure and improve electricity access for its citizens.

  • Boost local manufacturing to sustain GDP growth, LCCI urges FG

    Boost local manufacturing to sustain GDP growth, LCCI urges FG

    The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has called on the federal government to develop a comprehensive industrialization strategy to boost local manufacturing capacity, among other policies.

    In a statement, Director General, LCCI, Dr. Chinyere Almona, argued that the country’s reliance on trade and services, at the expense of industries is not healthy for the economy.

    “While the GDP growth figures indicate a positive trajectory, they raise critical concerns regarding real productivity and economic stability. The disproportionate reliance on the services sector, with declining contributions from agriculture and manufacturing, poses sustainability risks.

    “Economic growth driven largely by trade and finance must be complemented by robust industrial and agricultural expansion to create quality jobs, enhance value addition, and ensure food security,” he noted.

    LCCI advised the federal government to “address structural bottlenecks that hinder productivity across key sectors,” in order to achieve “a sustainable and inclusive growth trajectory.”

    It urged the government to consider the following to boost the economy: A comprehensive industrialization strategy should be developed to boost local manufacturing capacity. Policies that incentivize domestic production, enhance the ease of doing business and facilitate access to finance for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Increased investment in mechanization, irrigation, and improved seed varieties is essential to boost agriculture and food security.

    Policies to enhance rural infrastructure, market access, and value chain development should be pursued aggressively.

    Address Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit, particularly in power, roads, and ports,

    Expand public-private partnerships (PPPs) to bridge financing gaps in critical infrastructure projects. Ensure exchange rate stability for investor confidence and economic planning. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) should continue to adopt policies that facilitate liquidity, stabilize the naira, and encourage capital inflows. Address insecurity, particularly in agrarian regions, and intensify efforts to curb banditry, kidnapping, and other threats that deter investments in agriculture.

  • FG approves N500m to boost leather industry

    FG approves N500m to boost leather industry

    The Federal Government, on Monday,  approved an N500m pilot initiative to boost the hides and skin industry, focusing on empowering women entrepreneurs in the leather and footwear manufacturing sector.

    The initiative, approved by the Federal Executive Council, will be implemented through the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, with a special emphasis on supporting women’s participation in the industry.

    The Minister of Women Affairs, Iman Suleiman-Ibrahim, praised the approval, noting that women play a key role in the leather and footwear sector.

    Speaking to State House Correspondents in Abuja on Monday, the minister emphasized that the initiative would provide starter packs for manufacturers, enabling them to scale production, improve economic output, and contribute to the country’s GDP.

    To ensure gender inclusivity, she advocated for at least 50 percent of the intervention to be allocated to women, stating that it would create more opportunities for female entrepreneurs in the sector.

    She stated, “As we’re all aware, just like gold, skin and hide is another untapped area that we should major in. Hence, there is a need for us to applaud the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Tech for this initiative.

    “It’s a pilot initiative, so it will cost about half a billion, and it will be piloted in Ogun State.

    “Our ask is for women to be given a portion of it. And we’re going, in collaboration with the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Tech, to implement so that we can report accordingly.”

    Suleiman-Ibrahim argued that Louis Vuitton, owned by Bernard Arnault, the wealthiest man in France, sources a significant portion of its leather from Nigeria, highlighting the sector’s global economic relevance.

    She urged Nigerians to leverage this opportunity and invest in the leather industry, which has the potential to generate revenue and create jobs.

  • FG approves N734bn for Oyo-Ogbomoso road, others

    FG approves N734bn for Oyo-Ogbomoso road, others

    The Federal Government on Monday approved N733.89bn for the dualisation of the Oyo-Ogbomoso Road in Oyo State, among other projects.

    Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, announced this to State House Correspondents after the 24th Federal Executive Council meeting at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.

    The dualisation of the Ibadan-Ilorin Road, Section Two, covers Oyo-Ogbomoso in Oyo State and is valued at N147.89bn.

    The 147-kilometre stretch will be constructed with reinforced concrete pavement, and the contract was awarded to GRVe.

    Other key projects include the dualisation of the Odupani-Itu-Idedem Item-Ikot Ekpene Road in Cross River and Akwa Ibom States, awarded to Decon Construction Nigeria Limited for N55bn.

    Additionally, FEC approved funding for the completion of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road, specifically Section Two, which covers 164 kilometers. The contract was awarded for N507bn to InfoWest Nigeria Limited, the same company handling Sections One and Three.

    The final approval was for the construction of a flyover at Abakpa, near the 82 Division in Enugu, to ease traffic congestion in the area. The project, awarded to CCECC, is valued at N24bn.

    Providing further clarification on the Odupani-Itu-Ikot Ekpene Road, the Minister explained that “We have an entire section from Akwa Ibom cutting through this Odukpani, where we have the power plant, and then ending at Cross River.

    “There are three sections that we inherited. One is CCECC. That’s the first one coming from Akwa Ibom. The second one is Berger. Berger had about 27 kilometers there, and then, they went onto Cross River, and then had about 17 kilometers, and then the last one is Somatech.

    “When we came on board, we needed to review all the projects. And so, whereas the two other contractors, CCECC and Somatech accepted the review, Berger insisted that the project should be reviewed up to over N100bn, which warranted terminating it. That project is being re-procured through selective competitive bidding. And Decon won it with N55bn, as against N100bn plus.”

    The former Ebonyi State Governor also addressed concerns raised in the Senate about regional disparities in project allocation, clarifying that FEC approvals are based on memos submitted and processed rather than deliberate regional favoritism.

    He explained that project distribution depends on factors such as procurement processing timelines and not an intention to favor one part of the country over another.

    “Let me use one minute to correct an impression created in the Senate. There was a time we awarded some projects, and we came here to say the projects that FEC approved, and a senator raised a motion in the house, alluding that more projects were approved in the south than in the north.

    “Let me correct that impression, because I’m not qualified to write to the senate president to fix it. However, the fact remains that it is the memo that comes to FEC that is approved. Sometimes a memo can be in favour of a particular region or a particular zone and so forth.

    “So our briefing here should not be taken as if we are bringing projects in an equitable form. A project may go to BPP, and they are processing it, but it is not…like today, we have a total of N507bn, which is for Abuja-Kano section. And of course, in my zone, we have only N24bn. So if tomorrow you bring something big for Southeast, nobody should start saying…So the President is committed to completing all the inherited projects.” He stated.

    Umahi further pointed out that many of the projects being executed by the current administration were inherited from the previous government, and their distribution was not initially equitable. However, President Bola Tinubu has continued all inherited projects, ensuring that essential infrastructure across all regions is completed.

    Meanwhile, the Federal Executive Council has approved a N1.09bn insurance package to cover critical assets and personnel across all federal airports nationwide.

    The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed this at the briefing after the 24th FEC meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja.

    Keyamo explained that the approval aligns with a directive from the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, which mandates Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to insure critical government assets.

    Additionally, the move is essential for Nigeria’s airports to secure International Civil Aviation Organization certification.

    “This memo was prompted by Mr. President because we cannot continue to run our airports and critical assets, as precious and expensive as they are, without insurance cover,” he said.

    He noted that many airport assets remained uninsured for a long time, putting them at risk. Therefore, the new insurance scheme, he said, will protect both infrastructure and personnel of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria.

    “This approval ensures that not only are our critical airport assets covered, but also the personnel working in these environments.

    “It is in line with global best labor practices to ensure workers in such sectors have insurance protection,” he stated.

    The N1.097bn insurance contract, which includes 7.5 per cent VAT, will be executed over a one-year period, beginning once FAAN completes the premium payment.

    Keyamo revealed that five leading Nigerian insurance firms were chosen to handle the coverage following a rigorous selection process.

    Leadway Assurance Company Ltd. will serve as the lead underwriter, while Cornerstone Insurance Plc, Linkage Assurance Plc, NEM Insurance Company, and Anchor Insurance Plc will act as co-underwriters.

  • Nigeria loses $56bn to malnutrition annually — FG

    Nigeria loses $56bn to malnutrition annually — FG

    The Federal government says Nigeria loses about $56 billion annually to malnutrition.

    Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, disclosed this at the end of a recent high-level dialogue in Abuja on the cost of inaction on malnutrition in Nigeria and N4G commitment-making.

    The minister, who was represented at the event by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Vitalis Obi, said malnutrition has the enormous economic cost of malnutrition, estimated at USD 56 billion annually, equivalent to 12.2% of Nigeria’s Gross National Income (GNI).

    The Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning (FMBEP) organized the meeting in collaboration with Global Affairs Canada and Nutrition International. Representatives from various stakeholders, including the office of the Vice President, relevant Ministries, and international organizations, attended.

    Stakeholders in nutrition who gathered at the event reaffirmed their commitments to advance nutrition in Nigeria in line with the federal government’s N774 Initiative.

    The stakeholders identified challenges such as inadequate funding, weak food systems, and climate change as major factors that promote malnutrition in Nigeria.

    In a communiqué issued at the end of the dialogue, the stakeholders highlighted a myriad of challenges in addressing malnutrition and improving nutrition outcomes in the country. These include inadequate funding and budget implementation, weak food systems and poor diet diversity, climate change, social, cultural and behavioral patterns, data gaps and monitoring challenges, in addition to food insecurity.

    The Stakeholders resolved to align across all sectors to ensure that food security and malnutrition policies, strategies, guidelines and tools synergistically address malnutrition in all its forms by 2026.

    The meeting agreed to establish and operationalize nutrition departments with dedicated budget lines across 12 Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) by 2028 to improve the management and coordination of nutrition actions at both national and subnational levels.

    The Stakeholders resolved to establish and operationalize a transformative nutrition investment fund to catalyze nationwide implementation of nutrition actions towards universal health coverage for all Nigerians by 2028.

    The stakeholders decided to prioritize the implementation of the minimum package of nutrition services at the Primary Health Care (PHC) level as a component of the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAP), driving tangible improvements in health and well-being.

    They also resolved to expand access to social safety-net programs and water and sanitation (WASH) programs to empower vulnerable individuals and families, enable them to afford nutritionally diverse diets and end open defecation among all Nigerians.

    The Hon. Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, decried the enormous economic cost of malnutrition on the Nigerian economy, which is estimated at USD 56 billion annually, equivalent to about 12.2% of the country’s Gross National Income (GNI).

    The Minister was ably represented at the meeting by the Permanent Secretary of FMBEP, Dr. Emeka Vitalis Obi mni.
    The meeting held discussions on the upcoming Nutrition for Growth conference scheduled for March 2025 in Paris, France.

    The meeting’s stakeholders included the office of the Vice President, relevant Ministries, representatives of the National Assembly, States, Nutrition International, Global Affairs Canada, UNICEF, GAIN, CS-SUNN, and GIZ.

    The meeting served as a platform for Nigeria to articulate a common position ahead of the global nutrition summit in France later in March.

  • Air France flight diversion: FG reacts as Nigerian passengers stranded in Togo

    Air France flight diversion: FG reacts as Nigerian passengers stranded in Togo

    A significant number of Nigerian passengers faced unexpected delays and frustration after an Air France flight, en route from Paris to Abuja, was diverted to Lomé, Togo, due to severe weather conditions in the Nigerian capital.

    The incident prompted swift action from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who expressed deep concern over the airline’s handling of the situation.

    According to Keyamo, the Air France flight was forced to land in Lomé due to adverse weather preventing a safe landing in Abuja.

    However, he criticized the airline’s initial plan to leave the passengers in Lomé overnight despite the weather in Abuja clearing and the aircraft’s intended return to the city.

    Keyamo took to his official X account to voice his concerns, stating that he had engaged with both his officials and Air France representatives to demand immediate action.

    He insisted that the stranded passengers be returned to Abuja without delay or be provided with accommodations and care adhering to international standards.

    “I have just been alerted of a situation involving mostly Nigerian passengers left stranded at Lome, Togo, by Air France.

    “I insisted that those passengers must be brought back to Abuja tonight or be treated in line with best international standards if they must sleep in Lome,” Keyamo stated on Thursday night.

    The incident sparked concern among the affected passengers, who expressed their frustration over the lack of clear communication and the initial prospect of being stranded.

    As of the latest reports, due to the interventions of the minister, actions were being taken to return the passengers to Abuja.

  • FG resolves passport crisis in Atlanta; NY consulates

    FG resolves passport crisis in Atlanta; NY consulates

    The Federal Government said it has resolved the passport printer crisis at its consulates in Atlanta and New York, United States of America.

    The resolution followed directives of the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to the Nigeria Immigration Service NIS in January 2025 to deliver new passport printers to the consulates in both cities.

    “The machines have now been delivered and installed yesterday, February 18, 2025”, said Babatunde Alao, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Minister.

    Vanguard recently published complaints by some Nigerians in the diaspora who called the minister’s attention to the need for new printers to ease the passport application process in the concerned consulates.

    Alao said the installation of the new printers provides immediate relief and is part of the ministry’s broader effort to streamline passport services to ensure a more seamless application process.

    “The ministry is committed to innovation and improved service delivery. The installation of these new printers demonstrates our dedication to addressing the needs of Nigerians at home and abroad,” the minister was quoted as saying.

    He said the ongoing reforms, including the Abuja Passport Personalisation Centre and the expansion of contactless solutions to cover more regions, will further enhance service efficiency.

    “In addition, the development reflects the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) and demonstrates the administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians.

    “With these new printers, Nigerians in Atlanta and New York can expect a faster and more efficient passport application process,” the statement added.

  • FG calls for humane deportation process as U.S. set to deport 85 Nigerians

    FG calls for humane deportation process as U.S. set to deport 85 Nigerians

    The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mrs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has urged the U.S. to adhere to established protocols when deporting immigrants from its territory.

    She made this appeal in a statement on Sunday in Abuja, following a visit by the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., to the ministry.

    In a statement issued by Magnus Eze, her special assistant on communication and new media, Odumegwu-Ojukwu voiced concerns over the possible suspension of the U.S. Drop Box Visa System.

    She highlighted the emotional and financial distress faced by many Nigerians in the U.S. since the new administration signalled its intention to deport certain categories of immigrants.

    “With the new U.S. administration, we want commitments. If deportation must happen, it should be dignified,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated.

    She revealed that around 201 Nigerians are currently in U.S. immigration camps, with approximately 85 already cleared for deportation.

    “Will they be given time to manage their assets, or will they simply be bundled onto planes and sent back?” she asked, stressing the trauma deportation could cause.

    She noted that deportation affects not just those being repatriated but also their families in Nigeria, who depend on their remittances for survival and education.

    Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasised the need for deported individuals to be treated with dignity and allowed to settle their affairs before returning.

    She also urged the U.S. government to reconsider suspending the Drop Box Visa Policy, ensuring genuine travellers are not unduly burdened when applying for visas.

    The minister called for an official U.S. statement clarifying its stance on the Drop Box system to address growing concerns among Nigerians.

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    She pointed out that over 14,000 Nigerian students study in the U.S., with parents in Nigeria worried about possible changes to student visa policies.

    Regarding USAID’s uncertain future, she said, “We cannot confirm outright suspension, but many NGOs are anxious for clarification.”

    She appealed for the continuation of USAID programmes, citing their importance in addressing humanitarian issues in Nigeria and across Africa.

    Odumegwu-Ojukwu commended post-COVID-19 trade relations between both countries and encouraged investments in mining and the reactivation of the ‘Silent Secretariat’ for bilateral assessments.

    In response, Mills clarified that the Drop Box Visa Policy had not been suspended but was under review as part of the new administration’s policy adjustments.

    He assured that USAID remains committed to life-saving initiatives, particularly in healthcare and humanitarian aid, though some NGOs were experiencing difficulties.

    Mills also expressed concerns about democracy in Africa, the withdrawal of three Sahel countries from ECOWAS, and the ongoing fight against terrorism.

    On deportation, he stated that repatriated Nigerians would be returned to Lagos, with no consideration for alternative destinations like Port Harcourt or Abuja.

    “The first group will include convicted criminals and those who have violated U.S. immigration laws. Some appealed but were denied and must now leave,” Mills explained.

    He reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to strengthening trade relations with Nigeria, saying, “This administration will focus more on trade and commerce to sustain our strong relationship.” (NAN)

     

  • World Radio Day: FG calls on radio stations to create awareness on climate change

    World Radio Day: FG calls on radio stations to create awareness on climate change

    The Federal Government has called on radio stations in Nigeria to use their platforms to create awareness about climate change and its impact on the country.

    The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, made the call in a statement, on Thursday in Abuja to commemorate the World Radio Day.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Day, which is set aside by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), is celebrated on every Feb. 13.

    NAN also reports that the theme for this year’s celebration is “Radio and Climate Change.”

    According to Idris, it is a day dedicated to celebrating the power and importance of radio in our daily lives.

    “This year’s theme holds great significance for our community in Nigeria, as we face the devastating effects of climate change on our environment and livelihoods.

    “Radio has always been a trusted source of information and a lifeline for communities, especially in times of crisis.

    “In recent years, it has played a crucial role in raising awareness about climate change and its impact on our planet.

    “With its wide reach and accessibility, radio has the power to educate and mobilise individuals towards taking action against climate change.

    “On this World Radio Day, we urge all radio stations in Nigeria to use their platforms to create awareness about climate change and its impact on our country,” Idris said.

    The minister further emphasised that communities could be equipped with the knowledge and tools to adapt to the changing climate and mitigate its effects through informative and educational programmes.
    He stressed that it was also crucial for radio stations to collaborate with other organisations and experts in the field of climate change to provide accurate and reliable information to the listeners.

    According to him, we can enhance our understanding of the issue and work towards finding sustainable solutions in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda by featuring interviews with scientists, environmentalists, and policymakers.

    “Furthermore, we call upon our community to use this opportunity to reflect on our actions and how they contribute to climate change.

    “Simple changes in our daily habits, such as reducing plastic usage, conserving energy, and promoting sustainable agriculture, can make a significant impact in the long run.

    “As we celebrate the role of radio in fighting climate change, we must also remember that these issues go beyond our borders.

    “The effect of climate change is felt globally, and it is our responsibility to join hands with other nations to find solutions and create a better future for the generations to come,” Idris said.

    The minister recalled that at the 29th session of the Conference of Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s vulnerability to climate change.

    “Tinubu also outlined Nigeria’s strategies and efforts to mitigate its impact and implement policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enhance resilience, and integrate climate solutions into national planning.” (NAN)

  • FG approves $1.7bn Hope projects to improve healthcare for Nigerians

    FG approves $1.7bn Hope projects to improve healthcare for Nigerians

    The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved the sum of $1.7 billion for Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity – Governance (HOPE – GOVERNANCE) project alongside the inter-related Primary Health Care Provision Strengthening (HOPE -PHC) project.

    This was made known during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held recently.
    While the HOPE-PHC project aims to improve utilisation of quality essential healthcare services and health system resilience in the country, governance reforms entrenched in HOPE-GOVERNANCE will support improvements in healthcare financing; enhance transparency and accountability; and increase recruitment, deployment and performance management of primary healthcare workers by Federal, State and Local governments.
    The HOPE-PHC project will be driven by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare while the HOPE-GOVERNANCE project will be anchored by the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.