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  • 125,000 barrels/day Warri Refinery Resumes Operation

    125,000 barrels/day Warri Refinery Resumes Operation

    National energy company, the NNPCL says its long comatose Warri Refining and Petro-Chemical company has commenced production.

    NNPCL Group Managing Director, Mr. Mele kyari announced today in Warri, Delta State that the company’s 125,000 per day Warri Refinery commenced operation, though it currently operates at below installed capacity.

    Mr. Kyari who made the disclosure before conducting journalists and other guests on a tour of the refining complex said, “We are taking you through our plant. This plant is running. Although it is not 100 per cent complete, we are still in the process.

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    Many people think these things are not real. They think real things are not possible in this country. We want you to see that this is real.”

    “I must congratulate our team for their determination and extreme belief that this company can restart this plant.

    “This has brought the result we are seeing in collaboration with our contractors. We have proved that it is possible to restart a plant that you deliberately shut down. We have proved this.

    “This plant has three stages. We have started stage one which is called Area 1, able to produce AGO (diesel), Kerosene, naphtha and others. These are brands of high-quality products required in the country. We will also be able to export them. This country will make money to meet the promises of Mr president that this country will be an exporter of petroleum products.

    PLEASE SEE: Carter Understands Power, He knows the Beauty Lies in Not Using It

    “I must put on record the development was as a result of the charge by Mr President that we must get all three refineries to work. It is already happening. We have successfully started the Port Harcourt 65, 000 barrels per day refinery. We have also started the area 1 of the Warri refinery. The other plants that will produce PMS will also come live.

    “Kaduna is also on stream. We are not going to give you a date but we will surprise you,” Mr. Kyari said, excitedly.

  • Carter Understands Power, He Knows the Beauty Lies In Not Using It – Obasanjo

    Carter Understands Power, He Knows the Beauty Lies In Not Using It – Obasanjo

    As President Bola Tinubu and other world leaders pour out their heart to mourn former President Jimmy Carter, his friend and former President Obasanjo has expressed a deep sense of loss.

    He recounted how President Carter upon ascending onto office in January 1977 as US President worked assiduously with African leaders of that era to bring an end to the last vestiges of colonialism.

    He said President Jimmy Carter was the first President of the United States to visit Africa when he came to Nigeria in 1978.

    President Carter and Gen Obasanjo,

    Chief Obasanjo who spoke on The Morning Show on Arise TV, explained that the moment President Carter was sworn in, he delegated Ambassador Andrew Young to visit him in Nigeria and other front line countries to commence the process that led to the eventual dismantling of apartheid regimes in southern African countries.

    He also narrated how he deployed similar soft powers to broker peace between Israel and Egypt under the Camp David Peace Accord.

    President Obasanjo said that Jimmy Earl Carter “was a man of humility who had power but who did not depend on that power to achieve what he had to achieve.”

    READ ALSO: Finally, Port Harcourt Refinery Resumes Production

    “In Carter there was the symbol of power,” he emphasised, saying, “he understood how to wield his strength responsibly during his tenure as President.”

    Chief Olusegun Obasanjo was the Military Head of State of Nigeria between 1975 and 1979.

    In this tribute to President Carter, he recalled the fun times they had working together with other African leaders like President Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, President Kenneth Kaunda of Zambia, Comrade Sam Nujoma of Mozambique, among others.

    President Obasanjo enjoined current leaders to emulate the good example of humility as exemplified by late President Jimmy Carter.

    He attributed most of the problems confronting the global community today to what he referred to as deficit of leadership.

    He said past leaders should follow the Carter example to be active in service of humanity. According to him, if you have the fortune of leading, no matter the duration, you will garner an experience and network which should be put to use to the advantage of the global community.

    On the in-coming President Trump of the United of States, he said that is who Americans have chosen as thier president for now and that the whole world should respect their decision and live with it.

    “Whether any one likes it or not Trump as President of the United States will be the leader of the world. So, no country can say they don’t have anything to do with America.

    So, we should find ways to reach out to him based on mutual respect for both countries and their citizens.”

  • Jimmy Carter: Oldest Surviving POTUS Dies at 100

    Jimmy Carter: Oldest Surviving POTUS Dies at 100

    The oldest surviving President of the United States (POTUS), Mr. James Earl Carter Jr. has died, aged 100 years.

    Mr. James Earl Carter Jr., born October 1, 1924 in Plains, a city in Sumter County, Georgia, was the 39th President of the United States who served a single term of four years from 20 January 1977 – 20 January 1981.

    Having left office with low approval ratings, Mr. Carter was most reputed for his philanthropic work before and after office as POTUS, following which he received numerous awards.

    Some of these awards include; Nobel Peace Prize, 2002, nominated ten times for the Grammy and awarded three times for Best Audio Book Narration, 2019, 2016, 2007, Albert Schweitzer Prize for Humanitarianism, Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1999.

    The late President was possibly one of the most celebrated former President of the United States, having received about 98 such awards.

    In a tribute titled, the Peanut Farmer Who Rose to President, his son, Chip Carter wrote, “”My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love.”

    “The world is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honouring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs.”

  • 13 Burnt To Death In Ondo Road Crash

    13 Burnt To Death In Ondo Road Crash

     

    A devastating accident on the Owo-Ikare highway in Ondo State has claimed the lives of 13 passengers. 

    The crash occurred at Abule Panu near Ose Bridge, where two buses collided and burst into flames.  

    The incident involved 14 passengers, with only one survivor, who sustained severe injuries and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre in Owo. 

    Reports indicate that a tyre burst on one of the buses led to the driver losing control, resulting in a head-on collision with the second bus, which was transporting fabrics. 

    Both vehicles were engulfed in fire after the collision.  

    Emergency responders, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), police, and fire service, arrived promptly to assist. 

    The remains of the deceased have been deposited at the morgue.  

    Drivers are urged to maintain their vehicles and practice caution, while passengers are encouraged to speak up against unsafe driving practices.

  • Tinubu Celebrates Minister’s New Traditional Title

    Tinubu Celebrates Minister’s New Traditional Title

    President Bola Tinubu has celebrated the Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Tanko Yusuf Sununu, on receiving the traditional title Danmadin Yauri.

     The title was bestowed by the Emir of Yauri, Dr. Muhammed Zayyanu Abdullahi, in Kebbi State.  

    Acknowledging the honor, President Tinubu noted the recognition as a reflection of Dr. Sununu’s role within the federal cabinet and his contributions to improving humanitarian efforts across the nation.  

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    Dr. Sununu, previously a member of the House of Representatives for Yauri, is also an experienced obstetrician and gynecologist. 

    The President expressed confidence that this honor will motivate him to further his efforts in public service.  

    The turbaning ceremony, set for December 28, is expected to bring together family, friends, and supporters to mark the occasion. 

    President Tinubu extended his best wishes to all participants for a joyful event.  

  • Lagos Imam admonishes President Tinubu on the importance of responsibility to the people and accountability to Allah.

    Lagos Imam admonishes President Tinubu on the importance of responsibility to the people and accountability to Allah.

    Imam Ridwan Jamiu of the Lagos Central Mosque also enjoined Nigerians to remain grateful in times of good fortune and patient during difficult moments.

    The clergyman gave the advise in a sermon (khutba) during jumuah prayers at the Lekki Central Mosque, Lagos while President Tinubu attended the today’s jumuah prayers.

    The outing marks President Bola Tinubu’s first public appearance since last week’s prayers at the Alausa Central Mosque. 

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    During his sermon, the Chief Imam encouraged the congregation to remain grateful in times of good fortune and patient during difficult moments. 

    He emphasized the importance of hope and faith, even during tough times.

    Imam Jamiu expressed his support for the President, offering prayers for his success in guiding Nigeria towards peace, security, and prosperity.

     He assured Tinubu of the Muslim community’s continuous prayers and commitment to his leadership.

    The Imam noted the President’s competence, praising his leadership qualities, and reminded him of the importance of responsibility to the people and accountability to Allah.

     He also highlighted that President Tinubu’s actions reflect his name, Ahmed, meaning one who is praiseworthy, and prayed that these qualities continue to shape his leadership.

    President Tinubu has been in Lagos since December 18 after presenting the 2025 budget to the National Assembly.

     He canceled public engagements last Saturday out of respect for victims of stampedes in Oyo, Anambra, and the Federal Capital Territory.

  • South Korea’s Acting President Impeached

    South Korea’s Acting President Impeached

    South Korea’s parliament has removed Han Duck-soo, the acting president, just two weeks after impeaching President Yoon Suk Yeol.

     Han, who assumed the role after Yoon’s impeachment over an attempted martial law imposition, faced the motion after he blocked the appointment of three judges to oversee Yoon’s case. 

    Opposition lawmakers accused him of delaying the impeachment process. 

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    The parliament’s session on Friday saw protests from the ruling People Power Party (PPP), who objected to the impeachment vote. 

    Despite the disruption, 192 lawmakers supported Han’s impeachment. 

    Han will be suspended from his duties pending official notification, though the constitutional court must confirm the decision within 180 days. 

    Han has expressed respect for the parliamentary decision and is awaiting the court’s verdict.

  • Ribadu Denies Foreign Military Presence in Nigeria Amid Niger Tensions

    Ribadu Denies Foreign Military Presence in Nigeria Amid Niger Tensions

    Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, has dismissed accusations by Nigerien Abdoulrahamane Tchiani that foreign military forces, including those from France, are operating in Nigeria.

     Ribadu’s comments came in response to allegations made by Tchiani, who claimed that Nigeria was collaborating with France to destabilize Niger. 

    This has added to the rising tensions between the two nations, particularly after Niger, along with Mali and Burkina Faso, chose to leave the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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    Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Ribadu refuted Tchiani’s claims, stating there are no foreign military installations or troops in Nigeria. 

    He encouraged journalists to visit the locations mentioned by the Nigerien leader and speak with local residents to verify the absence of any foreign military presence.

    The National Security Adviser emphasized that the real issue facing both countries is the common threat posed by terrorists, particularly the insurgent group Lakurawa, which has been wreaking havoc in the region. 

    Ribadu further expressed that instead of focusing on accusations, both nations should collaborate to address security concerns that affect their shared borders. 

    He also stressed the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and Niger, describing the people of both countries as “brothers” and calling for unity in tackling mutual challenges. 

    Ribadu reassured that Nigeria would continue to work with Niger in the spirit of regional cooperation and development.

    The diplomatic tension between Nigeria and Niger follows the latter’s decision to leave ECOWAS, which has led to a broader political and economic rift.

     Despite the disputes, Ribadu’s statements reflect Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening ties with its neighbors in West Africa to combat terrorism and foster regional stability.

  • President Tinubu Condoles with Umar Namadi, Jigawa Governor

    President Tinubu Condoles with Umar Namadi, Jigawa Governor

    President Bola Tinubu has condoled with the Jigawa State governor, Malam Umar Namadi, over the passing of his mother, Hajiya Maryam Namadi.

    Hajiya Maryam, who was the family’s matriarch, died on Wednesday, December 25.

    President Bola Tinubu extolled the deceased’s community service and strongly encouraged her family to immortalise her by continuing her philanthropic undertakings, thereby ensuring her legacy lives on.

    In a comforting message, the president urged Governor Namadi and other family members who survived the deceased to take solace in the enduring good name left behind by her.

    A statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy) disclosed that the deceased woman had been buried according to Islamic rites in the governor’s hometown of Kafin Hausa.

  • “Tinubu is a leader not listening” – Salihu Lukman

    “Tinubu is a leader not listening” – Salihu Lukman

    A former leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and an advocate for internal party democracy, Dr. Salihu Lukman has berated President Tinubu media chat, saying “it projected a leader who is not listening.”

    He said that the government of President Tinubu has been in denial of the fact that their so-called economic reform policies have failed.

    The former APC leader said that the presidential media chat had not changed anything, insisting, “if anything it projected a leader who is not listening.”

    Dr. Lukman who spoke as a guest of the Morning Show on Arise TV, wrote off the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu saying, “I don’t see the magic that this govt can produce.”

    The former National Vice Chairman of the ruling APC based his low rating of the Tinubu Presidency on the state of affairs in the APC. He said the party cannot offer the country what it dose not have. “APC is currently practically dead,” he says.

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    He said there are no meetings at the level of the organs of the party. No platform to ventilate and aggregate opinions or ideas to enrich the governance system. He likened President Tinubu to an emperor and argued that emperors do not operate democracies.

    “Our democracy is not working,” he says. “No meetings, just nothing,” he added.


    According to him, the party members only come together when there is an election, as he put it, to select a candidate. He said such candidates do not usually emerge from the internal arrangement of the party.

    He added that such candidates are not usually the most eligible and what the party does is to mobilise men and resources to rig them in.

    Pressed to know if he was not being so critical because he did not get a plum appointment from President Tinubu. Dr. Lukman says, he is always in favour of internal party democracy, adherence to party ideology and programs, positing, “All that are currently lacking.”


    He said he and others of like minds are working to birth qualitative political parties that can produce the right leadership.

    He calls on all progressive minded individuals to do their bit by offering ideas, in whatever sector they find themselves, that will aid the good governance of the country.

    He advised against pessimism, saying, those wondering if Nigeria had the quality individuals to transform the country “will stagnate in one place.”

    Dr. Salihu Lukman was a former National Vice-Chairman, North West of the APC who resigned his membership of the party on June 12, 2024 because, his membership of the party had been rendered useless because of the absence of internal party democracy.

    As he looks up to 2027, Dr. Lukman says negotiations are taking place and, “There is a groundswell of recognition by leaders of the opposition to come together.”

    He is optimistic that before the middle of 2025 things will become clearer and, “Even the choice of party is being negotiated and very soon things will come to the open.”


    “We’ve to build the confidence of Nigerians that things will have to be done differently,” he insisted.