Adebayo Omo: Federal Gov’t Seeks Tangible Investment By International Oil Firms

The federal government has called on major oil companies operating in the country to reciprocate its efforts in enhancing the investment climate by committing tangible investments to the sector.

This appeal comes after significant reforms aimed at improving regulatory stability and fiscal competitiveness in the oil and gas industry.

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, who made this call, urged the International Oil Companies (IOCs) to ramp up investments in the country’s oil and gas sector.

Lokpobiri emphasised that the administration of President Bola Tinubu has provided every necessary incentives to ensure seamless and profitable operations.

Speaking during the Cross Industry Group (CIG) meeting held in Florence, Italy, organised by IOCs operating in Nigeria, Lokpobiri reiterated that the federal government will begin implementing the “drill or drop” provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) where necessary.

The meeting focused on challenges, expectations, and strategies to enhance the sector’s contributions to domestic energy needs and regional expansion across Sub-Saharan Africa.

He noted that while IOCs have pointed to Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractors as a challenge, EPCs will only commit when they see strong investment decisions from industry players.

“The Government has done its part by providing the requisite and investment-friendly fiscal policies, including the President’s Executive Order incentivising deepwater investments.

“Now, the ball is in the court of the IOCs and other operators to make strategic investment decisions that will drive increased production and sustainability in the sector,” the minister stated.

He further emphasised the need for IOCs to support local refining efforts, noting that more refineries are coming on stream and will require a steady supply of crude oil.

In order to make this easy and possible, the minister stressed that ramping up production will enable Nigeria to meet both local and international obligations.

In recent years, Nigeria has implemented key legislative changes, including the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, which seeks to provide a more conducive environment for growth in the sector.

Additionally, President Tinubu-led administration has issued executive orders to streamline project execution timelines and reduce production costs, attracting major investments such as the $5 billion Bonga North project by Shell.

The government is optimistic about securing more Final Investment Decisions (FIDs) in 2025, following a successful 2024 that saw Nigeria secure three out of Africa’s four FIDs, valued at over $5.5 billion.

With a focus on deepwater operations and gas-based industries, Nigeria aims to increase oil production and remain competitive among global oil and gas investment destinations.

The government emphasises that while it has done its part to create an attractive investment environment, the industry must now step up with substantial investments to drive economic growth and energy security.

“We cannot continue to have assets sitting idle for 20 to 30 years without development. If you are not utilising an asset and it remains underdeveloped for decades, it neither adds value to your books nor to us as a country.

“We encourage industry players to explore collaborative measures such as shared resources for contiguous assets, farm-outs, and the release of underutilised assets to operators ready to invest in production. Otherwise, like any responsible government, we will take back these assets and allocate them to those willing to go to work,” he said.

The minister also urged operators to consider farm-out agreements where assets are close to existing infrastructure, rather than incurring high costs on new Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units.

The chairman of the Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS), Osagie Osunbor, commended the minister for his direct engagement with industry players and for the Federal Government’s continued efforts in advancing the sector.

“We appreciate the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for investment. The minister’s engagement has provided critical insights and has also challenged us as industry players to step up efforts to increase production,” Osunbor stated.
[15:32, 01/04/2025] Adebayo Omo: Moses👆Story 20
[15:41, 01/04/2025] +234 810 940 0401: ‘I’m Not A Bastard, Not Afraid Of Anyone’, Natasha Tells Supporters At Homecoming Rally In Kogi

By Nafisat Abdulrahman

Suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has declared that she is “not a bastard” and “not afraid of anyone” while addressing a massive crowd of supporters during her homecoming in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area (LGA) of Kogi State on Tuesday afternoon.

Her return came amid heightened political tension, as the Kogi State Government and Police Command had earlier imposed a ban on public gatherings, citing security concerns. In response, the chairman of Okehi LGA, Hon. Amoka Eneji, also imposed a curfew on the LGA in a bid to halt Natasha’s planned homecoming and Sallah celebration with her constituents.

But, defying the government’s directive, Natasha arrived in her Ihima countryhome aboard a chopper around 1:00pm on Tuesday, where an enthusiastic crowd of supporters had gathered at her private residence as early as 7:00am awaiting her arrival.

Addressing her supporters, Natasha began by expressing her joy at being back in her hometown.

“I need you all to pay attention to what I am going to say. It is good to be home,” she said.

Switching between Ebira and English languages, she declared, “I am glad I came home. And nobody and nothing can stop me from coming home.”

The crowd erupted in cheers as she reaffirmed her identity and connection to Kogi Central.

“I am an Ebira person. Dr. Akpoti is my father. I know my home. I am not a bastard,” she stated emphatically.

Reiterating her stance, she continued, “I am an Ebira girl. This is my land. I am the daughter of the late Dr. Jimoh Akpoti. I am not a bastard, and I am not afraid of anybody.”

Natasha’s visit came amid a ban on public gatherings imposed by the Kogi State Government on Monday, citing potential threats to public peace. In a move to enforce the ban, Okehi LGA Chairman, Hon. Amoka Eneji, declared a curfew across the council area in an attempt to prevent Natasha’s homecoming event.

Despite the restrictions apparently to stop her planned homecoming Sallah party, Natasha’s supporters defied the curfew, turning out in large numbers to welcome her back.

“Yesterday, we heard on the news that rallies, gatherings will not be allowed, that roads will be blocked, and convoys leading into the state will not be allowed. I knew that we were the targets. But then I said, this is not political season, this is not campaign time,” the embattled lawmaker said.

“We are not having a rally. This is just me, the senator representing Kogi Central, coming down to her people to celebrate this festive time – the Sallah with you, and there is nothing wrong with that. I am breaking no law. This is Nigeria. We have the right to be free, to express our choice in gatherings and celebrations.”
[15:46, 01/04/2025] +234 810 940 0401: Moses ☝️story 21
[15:58, 01/04/2025] Mr Bode Online Editor: PICTORIAL: Rainstorm Wreaks Havoc In Kwara Community

By Abdullahi Olesin, Ilorin

A rainstorm disaster has rendered many residents homeless in Ogele community of Asa local government area of Kwara State.

The incident, which occurred on the night of Eid-el-Fitr Day, destroyed public infrastructure and residential buildings.

The affected structures included the Ansarul Islam Primary School, Community Secondary School, health centre and mosques

Other facilities destroyed by the rainstorm were electric poles and high tension wires supplying electricity to Ogele, Afon and other adjoining communities.

Some victims of the rainstorm, who spoke to LEADERSHIP, said they were still counting their losses.

They appealed to government at all levels, public spir…
[15:59, 01/04/2025] Mr Bode Online Editor: Moses 👆story 22
[16:04, 01/04/2025] Adebayo Omo: How To Apply For Nigerian Army 89th Regular Recruits Intake

By Nafisat Abdulrahman

The Nigerian Army has officially begun application for the 89th Regular Recruits Intake for trades/non-tradesmen and women, offering qualified Nigerians the opportunity to serve in the military.

Hereunder is a step-by-step guide to apply.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure that you meet the basic entry requirements:

– You must be a single Nigerian citizen by birth with a valid National Identity Number (NIN) and Bank Verification Number (BVN).
– You must be medically, physically, and psychologically fit.
– You must not have any criminal conviction.
– You must possess at least four passes in WASSEC/NECO/GCE/NABTEB, including English Language.
– If applying as a tradesman/woman, you must have a valid trade test/certificate.
– You must have a birth certificate issued by the National Population Commission, hospital, or local government.

-The age limit is 18-22 for non-tradesmen/women and 18-26 for tradesmen/women.

– Minimum height requirement: 1.68m for males and 1.65m for females.
– You must possess a valid state of origin certificate.

Step 2: Visit the Official Recruitment Portal

The Nigerian Army emphasised that the recruitment process is 100% free and must only be completed through the official website (https://recruitment.army.mil.ng)

Step 3: Create an Account and Fill Out the Application
Once on the portal:

1. Register with your email address and create a password.
2. Log in to access the application form.
3. Fill out all required details accurately, ensuring that your personal and educational information is correct.
4. Upload the necessary documents, including your certificates, birth certificate, and state of origin certificate.
5. Review your application for errors before submitting it.

Step 4: Print your application and guarantor’s form
after submitting your application:
Print a copy of your application form.
Download and print the Guarantor’s Form, which must be signed by reputable persons.

Step 5: Wait for Shortlisting and Prepare for Screening

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a screening exercise in their respective states of origin from June 2 to June 19, 2025.

The Nigerian Army stated that there will be no pre-selection computer-based test; only shortlisted candidates will proceed to the physical screening.

Step 6: Attend the Screening Exercise
If shortlisted, report to your designated screening centre with the following:

• Printed application form and Guarantor’s Form.
• Original copies of all credentials (NIN, BVN, school certificates, etc.).
• Two recent passport-sized photographs.
• A valid means of identification.

The Nigerian Army reiterated that recruitment is FREE and warned applicants against making payments to anyone claiming to facilitate the process.

“Candidates are advised to conduct their own due diligence and not engage in any form of financial transaction to secure recruitment,” the Army stated.

Why Apply? Benefits of Joining the Nigerian Army
By joining the Nigerian Army, you can enjoy:

– Career growth and job security.
– Regular and enhanced pay allowances.
– Educational advancement opportunities.
– Pension and gratuity upon retirement.
– Health and insurance benefits.
– Housing benefits in choice locations.
– Opportunities to serve within and outside Nigeria.

Deadline for application: May 7, 2025.
[16:04, 01/04/2025] Adebayo Omo: Moses👆Story 23
[16:04, 01/04/2025] +234 810 940 0401: Deputy Speaker Kalu Appoints Hart As New Chief Of Staff

By JAMES KWEN, Abuja

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has announced the appointment of Sam Ifeanyi Hart as his new Chief of Staff (CoS).

Hart replaced Hon. Toby Okechukwu, who was recently appointed Executive Director (Projects) for the newly established South-East Development Commission (SEDC).

Prior to his appointment, Hart served as Special Adviser to the Deputy Speaker on Public Affairs and has an extensive background in training and consultancy.

Hart also previously served as Director-General, Abia State Marketing and Quality Management Agency from 2019 to 2023 after occupying other appointive positions.

He was also a member of National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPPS) Kuru, where he attended the Senior Executive Course 45, serving as Course Secretary-General.

The new chief of staff to the Deputy Speaker has also served on the Boards of several corporate and non-governmental entities.

Hart brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new role, with a distinguished career spanning law, leadership, and public service.

A lifelong learner, he holds multiple academic qualifications, including a Master’s Degree in Environmental Law (LLM) and a Bachelor’s Degree in Law (LLB) from Abia State University.

The new Chief of Staff is also currently pursuing a Doctorate Degree in Law.

A seasoned professional, Hart has attended prestigious institutions, including the GOTNI Leadership Centre, National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPPS), and the School of Politics, Policy and Governance (SPPG).

He is also a member of several professional bodies, including the Chartered Institute of Directors of Nigeria (M.IoD), Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators (ACIArb), and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

As chief of staff, Hart will provide strategic guidance and support to the Deputy Speaker legislative activities, leveraging his expertise to drive policy initiatives and promote good governance.
[16:05, 01/04/2025] +234 810 940 0401: Sam Ifeanyi Hart
[16:05, 01/04/2025] +234 810 940 0401: Moses ☝️story 24