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MTN, Airtel sign deal on infrastructure sharing in Nigeria, Uganda

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MTN Group and Airtel Africa Partner to Share Network Infrastructure in Uganda and Nigeria

MTN Group and Airtel Africa have signed agreements to share network infrastructure in Uganda and Nigeria, aiming to expand digital and financial inclusion across Africa.

According to a statement on MTN’s website dated March 25, the collaboration seeks to enhance cost efficiency, extend coverage, and provide improved mobile services, particularly in remote and underserved areas that have yet to fully benefit from modern digital connectivity.

Ralph Mupita, President and CEO of MTN Group, emphasized the increasing demand for data services across the continent:

ALSO READ: Famous Kannywood actor, Karkuzu, is dead

“As MTN, we are driven by the vision of delivering digital solutions that propel Africa’s progress. The demand for digital and financial services continues to grow, and to meet this need, we are investing in coverage and capacity to ensure high-quality connectivity. At the same time, regulatory frameworks present opportunities for resource sharing, which enhances efficiency and improves returns.”

Sunil Taldar, CEO of Airtel Africa, highlighted the benefits of network sharing:

“As we compete in the market based on the strength of our brand, services, and offerings, we are also committed to building shared infrastructure within regulatory guidelines. This approach creates a stronger and more extensive digital network, driving digital and financial inclusion while eliminating unnecessary duplication of costly infrastructure to improve operational efficiency and customer benefits.”

This initiative aligns with the growing global trend of network sharing, where telecom operators collaborate to enhance service quality while optimizing costs. By pooling resources, operators can introduce innovative and competitive solutions, ensuring the delivery of reliable, world-class mobile services to more customers across Africa.

Beyond Uganda and Nigeria, MTN and Airtel Africa are exploring similar opportunities in other markets, including Congo-Brazzaville, Rwanda, and Zambia. Potential agreements include RAN (Radio Access Network) sharing and collaborative efforts on fiber infrastructure, including the construction of fiber networks where needed.

“MTN Group and Airtel Africa remain committed to working with other mobile operators in the markets where they operate to maximize the benefits of network sharing. However, both companies will continue to function as independent market entities, maintaining fair competition in shared markets. This partnership does not prevent either party from collaborating with other operators in any respective market,” the statement concluded.

Famous Kannywood actor, Karkuzu, is dead

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Veteran Kannywood actor Abdullahi Shuaibu, popularly known as Karkuzu, has passed away,Daily Trust reports.

Karkuzu died on Tuesday at Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH).

His funeral prayer was held on Wednesday morning, drawing hundreds of sympathizers.

Dalhatu Abdullahi, the late actor’s son, described his father’s passing as a profound loss to the family.

Karkuzu, who was 94 years old, is survived by his wife and six children.

ALSO READ: ‘You took the insults for me’ — Natasha Akpoti apologises to…

Reflecting on his legacy, fellow actor Sani Mu’azu praised Karkuzu’s unwavering dedication to his craft.

“What struck me most about Karkuzu was his resilience and dedication. Despite numerous challenges, including health issues, he continued acting well into old age, inspiring countless young actors and actresses. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched and the unforgettable characters he portrayed,” Mu’azu said.

“I had the privilege of knowing Karkuzu for over 40 years, and I can confidently say he was an exceptional talent. His versatility as an actor was unmatched, seamlessly transitioning between comedic and serious roles with ease.”

‘You took the insults for me’ — Natasha Akpoti apologises to Ezekwesili over altercation with Nwaebonyi

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Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator representing Kogi Central, has apologized to former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, following an altercation with Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, the senator representing Ebonyi North,TheCable reports.

The confrontation occurred on Tuesday during a hearing of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, where Akpoti-Uduaghan presented a fresh petition against Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Akpoti-Uduaghan has repeatedly accused Akpabio of sexual harassment.

ALSO READ: Dangote Exports 2m Barrels, 130m Litres Of Jet Fuel To US,…

Ezekwesili attened the hearing as a witness alongside Abiola Akiode, counsel to Akpoti-Uduaghan, and petitioner Zubairu Yakubu. Meanwhile, Nwaebonyi, the Senate’s Deputy Chief Whip and a witness for Akpabio, frequently interrupted Ezekwesili as she spoke.

In response, Ezekwesili urged Nwaebonyi to “compose himself and stop making noise,” adding, “please, will you shut up?” Her remark triggered a heated reaction from Nwaebonyi, who lashed out, saying:

“You’re a fool. What do you mean? Why are you talking to me like that? I will not take it. You’re an insult to womanhood. People like you cannot be here.”

Amid an ongoing recall process initiated by some of her constituents, Akpoti-Uduaghan took to X to express her admiration for Ezekwesili and apologize for the insults directed at her.

“Ma’am, I apologise for the insults. Know you took them for me… for us … as a mother and as a leader. Know that you are a true icon of integrity, courage, and visionary leadership,” she wrote.

“Your unwavering commitment to good governance, education, and democracy continues to inspire generations.

“A champion of accountability… Nigerians appreciate you. I celebrate your brilliance, resilience, and selfless service. You are a hero.”

Dangote Exports 2m Barrels, 130m Litres Of Jet Fuel To US, S/Arabia

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Hama Media
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Dangote Refinery Exports Over Two Million Barrels of Jet Fuel to the US, 130 Million Litres to Saudi Arabia

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has exported more than two million barrels of jet fuel to the United States and approximately 130 million litres to Saudi Arabia, further solidifying Nigeria’s role in the global fuel market,leadership reports.

According to ship-tracking service Kpler, six vessels carrying around 1.7 million barrels of jet fuel from Dangote Refinery arrived at US ports this month, with another vessel, Hafnia Andromeda, set to deliver 348,000 barrels to the Everglades terminal on March 29. These shipments highlight the refinery’s ability to produce high-quality products that meet international standards.

ALSO READ: 2027: I don’t know if I will run – Atiku

Exports to Saudi Arabia, particularly to Saudi Aramco, showcase the refinery’s expanding influence beyond Africa, with potential markets in the Middle East and Europe. With a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day (bpd), the refinery is positioned to reshape fuel trade dynamics, establishing itself as a key supplier in the Atlantic Basin.

Impact on the Global Market

Experts have lauded the refinery’s success, viewing it as a source of national pride. The shipments demonstrate confidence in the quality of Dangote’s products and underline Nigeria’s growing significance in global energy markets.

Dangote Refinery has already competed with European refiners in gasoline (PMS) exports, and these jet fuel shipments to the US could challenge domestic producers in the world’s largest fuel-consuming nation.

According to TankTiger chief operating officer Steven Barsamian, the increased supply from Nigeria is expected to lower US jet fuel prices ahead of the peak summer travel season. Trade analysts report that US jet fuel imports from Dangote Refinery have averaged 226,000 bpd in March, the highest since February 2023, reflecting strong global demand.

A Game-Changer for Nigeria’s Economy

Economist Dr. Muda Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprises (CPPE), emphasized that Dangote Refinery’s success enhances Nigeria’s reputation.

“Nothing is more prideful for us as a country than having a refinery producing products exported to the US. These markets have stringent quality standards, and the fact that they trust Dangote Refinery speaks volumes,” he said.

Former Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) director-general Dr. Yusuf urged both the government and citizens to support the refinery, stating that its achievements are breaking barriers and boosting Nigeria’s global standing.

Public policy expert Dr. Abimbola Oyarinu highlighted that if Nigeria had invested in functional refineries earlier, the economy would be in a much better position today.

“This should have been addressed since 2014. The country has suffered from high inflation and unemployment due to its reliance on crude exports and refined product imports. Dangote’s investment is now reducing foreign exchange outflows while bringing in revenue. Unfortunately, some elites still seek to undermine both the refinery and Dangote himself,” he said.

He also warned that Nigeria’s challenging business environment could discourage future investors if obstacles to local investments persist.

2027: I don’t know if I will run – Atiku

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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has stated that he is uncertain about running for the presidency in 2027,Daily Trust reports.

In an upcoming television interview on Untold Stories with Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie, exclusively obtained by Daily Trust, Atiku remarked that his candidacy would depend on the existence of a viable political platform, emphasizing that Nigeria has never been in greater need of experienced leadership.

Atiku, who has contested the presidency six times, recently announced a coalition of opposition leaders to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027. Speculation abounds regarding who will lead the coalition, with figures like Peter Obi and Nasir El-Rufai being considered. Reflecting on past political mergers, Atiku recalled how multiple candidates united behind one nominee in 2014, leading to victory.

He also agreed with former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s assessment that Nigeria’s democracy is deteriorating, describing the situation as “very dire.” Expressing disappointment in the country’s leadership, he lamented that many former governors and senators have failed to improve governance.

Why Atiku Didn’t Pick Wike as Running Mate in 2023

Atiku addressed his decision not to select Nyesom Wike as his running mate in the 2023 election, a move some believe contributed to the crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Wike later admitted to working against Atiku, delivering Rivers State to President Tinubu.

Defending his choice, Atiku recalled being criticized in 2019 for not consulting widely when he picked Peter Obi. To avoid similar criticism in 2023, he let the party decide, and a committee recommended three candidates: Ifeanyi Okowa, Wike, and Udom Emmanuel. He ultimately chose Okowa, as Wike was the second choice.

Why Abiola Chose Kingibe Over Atiku for June 12

Atiku also reflected on the 1993 presidential primaries of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), where he was instructed by his mentor, Shehu Yar’adua, to step down for Moshood Abiola. Initially, Abiola had agreed to choose Atiku as his running mate, but pressure from SDP governors led him to pick Babagana Kingibe instead.

According to Atiku, the governors, who had secured their positions under Kingibe’s leadership of the SDP, threatened to withdraw support if Abiola did not select him. Ultimately, Abiola took what he saw as a necessary political risk.

Savannah Energy acquires SIPEC

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Hama Media
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Savannah Energy Completes Acquisition of SIPEC, Targets Production Growth

Savannah Energy PLC, a British independent energy company, has announced the successful acquisition of Sinopec International Petroleum Exploration and Production Company Nigeria Limited (SIPEC),Thecable reports.

In a statement on Monday, Savannah revealed that the acquisition has increased its reserves and resource base by approximately 30%, rising from 151 million barrels of oil equivalent (mmboe) to 197 mmboe.

The deal also brings an additional 227 billion standard cubic feet (Bscf) of “2C gross gas resources” at the Stubb Creek Field, significantly boosting long-term feedstock gas supply for Accugas customers.

ALSO READ: FG investigates food quality in Federal Unity Colleges

Key Details of the Acquisition

Savannah explained that SIPEC’s primary asset is a 49% non-operated interest in the Stubb Creek oil and gas field, which is operated and 51% owned by Universal Energy Resources Limited, a Savannah affiliate company.

The acquisition was financed through a $60 million Reserve-Based Lending debt facility arranged by The Standard Bank of South Africa Limited. At the time of completion, the total consideration paid was approximately $35.1 million, which included $19.5 million in SIPEC’s available cash. Additionally, $2 million in deferred cash consideration will be paid over eight quarterly installments.

Following the acquisition, Savannah has launched an 18-month expansion plan to increase production at Stubb Creek Field from an average of 2.7 kbopd in 2024 to approximately 4.7 kbopd.

Stubb Creek Field Overview

Located in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, the Stubb Creek Field is a producing oil field with substantial undeveloped gas resources. As of year-end 2024, it held:

  • 11 million stock tank barrels (MMstb) of 2P gross oil reserves
  • 515 Bscf of 2C gross gas resources

Commercial oil production began at the field in 2015, with cumulative production reaching 8.1 MMstb by December 2024. The field’s crude is processed onsite before being transported via a 25 km pipeline to the Qua Iboe terminal.

Additionally, the field was converted into a 20-year Petroleum Mining Lease under the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, effective December 1, 2023.

Savannah Energy’s Growth Strategy

Andrew Knott, CEO of Savannah Energy, described the acquisition as a major milestone in the company’s 2025 strategy.

“Our focus now shifts to the expansion project at Stubb Creek Field, where we anticipate increasing production by nearly 75% over 2025 and 2026,” Knott said.

He also expressed appreciation to the Nigerian government for its support in facilitating the deal and extended a warm welcome to SIPEC employees joining Savannah.

Knott assured shareholders that regular updates on the expansion and other key business priorities would be provided in the coming months.

FG investigates food quality in Federal Unity Colleges

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FG Inspects Federal Unity Colleges, Recalls Principals Over Substandard Meals

The Federal Government has begun inspections of Federal Unity Colleges, uncovering that two institutions failed to meet the required standards for student meals,Daily Trust reports.

As a result, the Principals of the affected schools have been recalled to the Ministry’s headquarters for further investigation.

ALSO READ: El-Rufai Resigns From APC, Joins SDP

In a statement, the Director of Press & Public Relations, Boriowo Folasade, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to student well-being in Federal Unity Colleges. To ensure strict compliance with feeding standards and student welfare, senior officers have been deployed to oversee the operations of the affected schools during the investigation.

Furthermore, the Ministry has launched a nationwide assessment of all Federal Unity Colleges to evaluate the quality of food and pastoral care provided to students.

The Federal Ministry of Education remains committed to upholding high standards in its institutions, ensuring that students receive the proper nourishment and care essential for their academic and personal growth.

El-Rufai Resigns From APC, Joins SDP

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El-Rufai Resigns from APC, Joins SDP

Malam Nasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Kaduna State and a founding member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has officially resigned from the party and joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP),leadership reports.

In a statement issued on Monday announcing his defection, El-Rufai cited developments over the past two years as evidence that those currently in control of the APC have no intention of addressing the party’s internal challenges.

“As a founding member of the APC, I had hoped that my personal values would continue to align with those of the party until my retirement from politics. However, the trajectory of the APC has become increasingly capricious,” he said. “I have raised my concerns privately and, more recently, publicly, but it has become clear that meaningful change will not happen.”

ALSO READ: ‘I was really touched I had to shed tears’, Fubara narrates…

El-Rufai revealed that he had submitted his resignation letter to his ward in Kaduna, effective immediately, after consulting with mentors, colleagues, and loyalists across the country. He added that he had now chosen the SDP as his new political platform.

“Moving forward, I will focus on uniting and persuading other opposition leaders and parties to come together under a unified democratic platform to challenge the APC in all elections and bye-elections between now and 2027, by the grace of God,” he declared.

Reflecting on his time in the APC, El-Rufai recalled the party’s early days and his role in its formation.

“I have fond memories of working with fellow compatriots to negotiate the merger that gave birth to the APC. Since 2013, I had envisioned a long-term alignment between my values and those of the party. Unfortunately, recent developments have proven otherwise,” he stated.

Acknowledging the difficulty of leaving a party he helped build, El-Rufai emphasized that leaders must be pragmatic when faced with an unbridgeable divergence.

“I have diligently served the APC and contributed to its viability as a political platform. However, the party has strayed far from the vision of its well-meaning founders. It has marginalized its members, disregarded internal democracy, and rendered its organs ineffective over the last two years. This is no longer acceptable to me,” he added.

The former governor also highlighted his commitment to progressive governance during his tenure in Kaduna State, citing reforms in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation. However, he lamented that such principles now hold little significance within the APC.

“Despite our efforts to advance nation-building and secure victories for the party in 2015, 2019, and 2023, the APC has abandoned its founding ideals. It is time to move forward,” he stated.

El-Rufai concluded by calling on his supporters and other like-minded Nigerians to join the SDP in the collective effort to rebuild the country.

“I invite all who are passionate about Nigeria’s future to join us in the SDP as we work toward making our nation a beacon of hope for Africa and the Black race,” he said.

‘I was really touched I had to shed tears’, Fubara narrates recent encounter

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Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has shared a heartfelt moment that brought him to tears,Daily Trust reports.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Palace of Nyeweali Akpor Kingdom and a residential quarters for King Eze Levi Amos Oriebe—both built and furnished by his administration—Fubara expressed joy that his government had positively impacted lives.

Despite ongoing political tensions, he reassured Rivers people that they would emerge stronger and urged them to remain peaceful and law-abiding. He recounted how, ten months ago, during the flag-off of the Okania-Ogbogoro Road reconstruction in Obi Akpor Local Government Area, the people requested the construction of the palace.

“I was deeply moved to the point of shedding a few tears when the Royal Father spoke. He said that in over 200 years of Akpor Kingdom’s existence, it had never had a palace,” Fubara recalled. “But God makes no mistakes. Perhaps, He left this task for our administration to fulfill so that we would be part of Akpor Kingdom’s history forever.”

The governor further explained that his administration not only built the palace but also provided a private residence for the Nyeweali, recognizing that while the palace serves the entire kingdom, the ruler’s family would need a home of their own after his tenure.

“We didn’t stop at just constructing the palace; we went further to build a personal residence for the Eze. This ensures that when he steps down or when nature calls, he and his family will have a comfortable place to live,” he said.

Addressing his supporters, Fubara encouraged them to stay hopeful despite recent events in the state.

“I know some of you are feeling discouraged, while others remain hopeful. But one thing is certain—God never starts something and abandons it halfway,” he assured. “No matter the challenges we face today, we will emerge stronger and better. Stay on the path of peace, because if anything goes wrong, we are the ones who stand to lose the most.”

Emphasizing that his commitment to Rivers State is driven by the collective well-being of its people rather than personal gain, Fubara urged citizens to remain law-abiding.

“I will not support disobedience or violence, but that does not mean we will tolerate evil. We will never support wrongdoing,” he declared.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to good governance and impactful, people-centered development.

“Our projects and services will continue to touch the hearts, souls, and spirits of our people. No matter the circumstances, we will not waver in our promise to serve the good people of Rivers State.”

TCN targets 10,000MW power transmission capacity by 2026

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Hama Media
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The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has announced plans to increase the country’s power evacuation capacity to 10,000 megawatts (MW) by 2026,Thecable reports.

Speaking at the ‘meet-the-press’ program at the presidential villa in Abuja on Thursday, TCN Managing Director, Sule Abdulaziz, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modernizing the national grid and ensuring a stable power supply.

Highlighting the recent peak power generation record of 5,801.84MW achieved on March 4, Abdulaziz stated that TCN is steadily working toward its 10,000MW target, building on the current evacuation capacity of 8,500MW.

ALSO READ: ‘Why No Senator Openly Support Natasha’, Ex-Lawmaker Shehu Sani Explains

“With the numerous transmission projects completed in the last two years and new ones underway, I can confidently state that in less than two years, the Transmission Company of Nigeria will conveniently evacuate 10,000MW of generated power,” he said. “We currently have a capacity of 8,500MW, and by the end of next year, it will reach 10,000MW.”

$486 Million World Bank-Funded Grid Monitoring System Nears Completion

Abdulaziz also highlighted progress on the World Bank-funded grid monitoring system, which is now 69% complete. He noted that World Bank-backed projects have added 6,000 megavolt-amperes (MVA) of transmission capacity, with another 3,000MVA in progress.

Other key projects include the new Kano-Kaduna 330kV DC transmission line, the Zaria 330kV substation, and the 132kV substation in Jaji, Kaduna—funded by the African Development Bank (AfDB).

Presidential Power Initiative and Siemens Project

Under the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), also known as the Siemens project, the government has delivered 10 mobile substations, seven of which are already installed, along with 10 transformers of various ratings connected to the grid.

“The FGN Power Company, a special-purpose vehicle for implementing the presidential power initiative, has completed the pilot phase with transformer installations. Phase 1B has also been approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to reinforce seven existing transmission substations,” Abdulaziz explained.

Future phases of the project are being planned, though TCN itself does not manage the Siemens project directly. Instead, FGN Power Company, a sister agency, oversees its execution.

Strengthening Grid Stability and Renewable Energy Integration

To improve grid reliability, TCN has developed a generation load drop sensitivity system, which helps prevent cascading failures in the absence of a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system.

Abdulaziz noted that the ongoing SCADA project, funded by the World Bank at $486 million, is 69% complete. Once fully operational, it will enhance real-time monitoring, making fault detection and response times significantly faster.

“Once SCADA is fully implemented, operators will no longer need to manually track faults or rely on phone calls to determine the status of grid infrastructure,” he said.

On renewable energy integration, Abdulaziz revealed that the federal government is rolling out solar power projects across all 19 northern states, leveraging the region’s abundant sunlight. Each state is expected to generate 100MW of solar power, which will gradually be fed into the national grid.

However, he cautioned that only 10% of total generation can come from solar power without destabilizing the grid.

With these initiatives, TCN aims to enhance Nigeria’s power transmission network, ensuring a more stable and efficient electricity supply for the country.

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