News
According to an aide of Tinubu, the Port Harcourt Refinery is operational.
The recent inauguration of the Port Harcourt Refinery marks a significant development in Nigeria’s oil sector, as highlighted by Fredrick Nwabufo, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Public Engagement. This event, which took place on November 26, 2024, signifies the revival of a critical national asset that has long been dormant.
Nwabufo emphasized that the refinery’s operational status is a testament to the administration’s commitment to revitalizing the country’s oil and gas industry, which has suffered from years of neglect. Established in 1965, the refinery had faced numerous challenges that hindered its functionality. Previous administrations failed to initiate the necessary reforms to restore the refinery, resulting in substantial revenue losses for the nation. It was not until the Buhari administration that efforts were made to rehabilitate this vital facility, with contracts awarded in March 2021 to commence repairs.
The current administration under President Tinubu is taking bold steps to further enhance the oil sector. Nwabufo noted that the president has implemented significant reforms, including the issuance of five executive orders aimed at unlocking over $2.5 billion in investments. These initiatives are expected to reduce the financial burden of petrol subsidies, allowing for the repurposing of funds to foster local refining capabilities.
Amidst the positive developments, concerns regarding the sustainability of the refinery and the authenticity of certain reports, such as claims about fuel blending practices by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), have been addressed by Nwabufo. He assured stakeholders that the administration is committed to resolving any issues that may arise as the refinery begins its operations.
The successful launch of the revamped Port Harcourt Refinery is not just a moment of celebration; it represents a pivotal opportunity for Nigeria to reclaim its position in the global oil market and enhance its economic stability. As the facility resumes operations, the focus will now shift to ensuring its long-term viability and contribution to the nation’s development.
The Federal Government has declared a state of emergency on the construction of the Suleja-Minna road. Minister of Works, David Umahi, announced the declaration on Saturday following an inspection of the road. He stated that the project, initially awarded to Salini Nigeria Limited, had been poorly executed or abandoned.
Umahi explained that despite repeated attempts to have Salini repair the road over the past year and a half, progress had been unsatisfactory. Niger Governor Mohammed Bago raised concerns with President Bola Tinubu, prompting the Ministry of Works to intervene. The road, described as being “in a very terrible situation delaying travel time by seven hours instead of an hour and half hours and vehicles are falling and killing people,” has been designated an emergency project.
The contract with Salini has been irrevocably terminated due to substandard work. Umahi has directed his ministry to recover funds owed by Salini, potentially involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Two contractors are now engaged in the project. CCCC International Engineering Nigeria Ltd. has been contracted to handle part of the road, with 60km already completed under the Governor’s urban renewal agenda. CCCC has been given 10 days to mobilize and commence work on a critical 7km stretch. Umahi emphasized that work will begin immediately under emergency procurement guidelines, with pricing to be verified subsequently.
The Nigerian film industry is in mourning following the death of Kayode Peters, a renowned filmmaker and producer. The news was announced by his family on his official Instagram page, stating that he passed away peacefully on the morning of Saturday, June 28, 2025, in Toronto, Canada, after a long illness.
Peters, fondly known as KP, was celebrated for his contributions as a filmmaker, actor, and producer. He was known for his role as Koko in the popular sitcoms “Twilight Zone” and “Flatmates” in the early 2000s. His work also extended to stage plays and sitcoms like “Extended Family” and “Being Farouk,” significantly impacting Nigeria’s contemporary theatre and television landscape.
He is survived by his wife, Alexander, and their children. Funeral arrangements are underway, and further details will be shared by the family in due course. The industry and fans alike will deeply miss his warmth, generosity, and contributions to Nollywood.
President Bola Tinubu arrived in Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia, on Saturday, marking the commencement of a two-nation tour encompassing the Caribbean and South America. Upon arrival at Hewanorra International Airport, he was received with full military honors by Governor-General Errol Melchiades Charles and Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre.
The President’s itinerary includes courtesy visits to the Governor-General and Prime Minister, followed by an address to a joint session of the Senate and the House of Assembly of Saint Lucia. Discussions will focus on deepening cooperation between Nigeria and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), with emphasis on economic partnerships and cultural solidarity. A visit to the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College is also planned to strengthen educational ties.
Following his engagements in Saint Lucia, President Tinubu will proceed to Brazil to participate in the 2025 BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, attending at the invitation of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil. Nigeria’s participation as a ‘partner country’ underscores its commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations on a global scale.
Federal Government Declares State of Emergency on Suleja-Minna Road.
Nollywood Mourns the Loss of Kayode Peters.
