Arewa Times

Oil Sector Renaissance: How Kyari Reshaped NNPCL With Accountability and Heart

By Mica Joseph

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has issued a resounding endorsement of former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kolo Kyari, celebrating his six-year tenure (2019–2025) as a watershed era of honesty, institutional overhaul, and unexpected compassion.

In a press statement signed by its President, Ambassador Abdul Danbature, the group declared that Kyari did not merely manage the national oil company but fundamentally repositioned it, pulling it back from the brink of public distrust and operational stagnation.

A New Culture of Openness

AYAGL highlighted that upon assuming leadership, Kyari dismantled decades of opacity by introducing the Transparency, Accountability, and Performance (TAPE) agenda. For the first time in NNPCL’s history, the group noted, the company consistently published audited financial statements—a move that shocked industry watchers and restored faith among international partners and local stakeholders alike.

The group also credited Kyari with steering the historic transition of NNPCL from a opaque state corporation into a commercial, profit-driven entity under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). Through aggressive digitisation and governance reforms, operational efficiency soared while waste was systematically curtailed.

Navigating the Storm of Deregulation

On the volatile issue of fuel pricing, AYAGL said Kyari displayed rare strategic courage. As Nigeria transitioned to full deregulation, his leadership ensured relative stability in supply and pricing—even as global markets convulsed during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. “He held the nation’s energy security together with both hands,” the statement read.

Legacy Infrastructure and the Gas Push

The statement acknowledged major infrastructure milestones achieved under Kyari’s watch:

· The ongoing rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries.
· Steady progress on the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano Gas Pipeline Project.
· Enhanced pipeline surveillance systems that significantly curbed crude oil theft.

Furthermore, AYAGL praised Kyari’s “Decade of Gas” initiative as a visionary roadmap for cleaner energy and industrial growth, while polishing Nigeria’s standing in global energy diplomacy.

The Human Face of Big Oil

Beyond balance sheets and pipelines, the group placed unusual emphasis on Kyari’s humanitarian footprint—a side of his leadership rarely highlighted.

Under his watch, NNPCL expanded healthcare interventions, funded educational support programmes, and executed community development projects ranging from rural water supply and school rehabilitation to solar electrification in off-grid communities.

The statement specifically noted his quiet support for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Nigeria’s North-East, as well as his personal commitment to mentoring young oil and gas professionals.

“Many of his personal philanthropic efforts were carried out quietly, reflecting humility and a genuine desire to impact lives, not headlines,” AYAGL said.

Steering the Nation Through Elections

The group also commended Kyari for ensuring uninterrupted energy supply during election periods and maintaining strict institutional neutrality—moves that contributed directly to national stability and democratic continuity.

Final Verdict

Concluding its lengthy tribute, the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership described Kyari’s tenure as “a rare legacy of reform, resilience, and compassion.” The group urged future leaders of NNPCL and other state institutions to emulate his blend of hard-nosed efficiency and genuine service.

“He proved that a national oil company can be profitable, transparent, and humane—all at once,” the statement added.

ENDS

How a Banquet Hall United Kaduna State

On April 22, dignitaries from across Nigeria’s political, traditional, and socio-economic spectrum converged on Kaduna for an event that was as symbolic as it was historic the commissioning of the state’s newly constructed Banquet Hall.

For the first time since Kaduna State’s creation in 1967, former governors including Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, Namadi Sambo, and Mukhtar Ramalan Yero,gathered under one roof alongside an array of political leaders, traditional rulers, and stakeholders. The moment was more than ceremonial; it was deeply symbolic of reconciliation and unity.

At the heart of this convergence is a vision championed by Governor Uba Sani to create a space deliberately designed to foster dialogue, partnerships, and investment.

Beyond Steel and Glass
By all appearances, the Banquet Hall is an architectural statement,an imposing structure of steel and glass built with ambition. Yet beyond its physical presence, it represents something far more profound: a renewed civic identity for a state long shaped by diversity and complexity.

The facility, inaugurated by Vice President Kashim Shettima at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, was not merely unveiled as another public building. It was introduced as a strategic instrument for governance,one designed to bring people together under a shared roof.

Named after Abba Kyari, the state-of-the-art hall boasts a seating capacity of about 1,300 and spans approximately 2.7 hectares. It fills a long-standing infrastructural gap in Kaduna, providing a venue capable of hosting high-level engagements,from diplomatic meetings to cultural exhibitions and investment summits.

A Space for Dialogue in a Complex State
Kaduna has historically held a central role in Nigeria’s political and socio-economic landscape. However, like many states in northern Nigeria, it has also faced challenges, ethno-religious tensions, security concerns, and political divisions.

Against this backdrop, the Banquet Hall emerges as more than a venue; it is a deliberate attempt to create a shared civic space.

Governor Sani emphasized during the commissioning that the project is not just about infrastructure, but about strengthening governance and encouraging meaningful engagement.

“This is a strategic investment in institutional capacity,” he said, underscoring its role in fostering policy dialogue and partnerships.

By hosting events such as the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations Week, intergovernmental forums, and stakeholder engagements, the hall provides a neutral ground where individuals from diverse backgrounds can interact constructively.
Repositioning Kaduna on the Global Stage
Central to Governor Sani’s broader vision is repositioning Kaduna as a hub for national and international engagement. The Banquet Hall is a cornerstone of that ambition.

Designed to meet global standards, the facility is expected to attract conferences, diplomatic missions, and investors,activities that can stimulate economic growth while reshaping perceptions about the state.

Vice President Shettima described the project as a reflection of “purposeful leadership,” noting its potential to strengthen institutions and deepen national cohesion.

Unity Through Shared Experience
Unity is rarely achieved through rhetoric alone,it is built through shared experiences. The Banquet Hall provides precisely that opportunity.

Each event hosted within its walls, whether a policy dialogue, cultural showcase, or regional summit,adds to a growing narrative: that Kaduna is not merely defined by its challenges, but by its capacity to serve as a meeting point of ideas and opportunities.

Stakeholders present at the commissioning described the project as a “magnificent achievement” and a “strategic investment in governance,” highlighting its potential to redefine public engagement in the state.

A Political Statement in Concrete Form
Infrastructure often carries political meaning, and this project is no exception. For Governor Sani, the Banquet Hall signals a shift toward inclusive governance, one rooted in openness, communication, and institutional strength.
It also reflects a deliberate effort to rebuild trust. By investing in a space designed for interaction and accessibility, the administration is making a clear statement: governance must be participatory and visible.

The Road Ahead
While a single structure cannot resolve all of Kaduna’s challenges, it can set a tone. The true measure of the Banquet Hall’s impact will lie in how it is utilized, how often it hosts meaningful dialogue, how inclusive those conversations are, and how effectively they translate into tangible outcomes for citizens.

If fully leveraged, the facility could become a cornerstone of Kaduna’s transformation, a place where differences are negotiated, partnerships are forged, and unity is actively practiced.

In a region often defined by its divisions, the Kaduna Banquet Hall offers a different narrative, one of convergence, possibility, and shared purpose.
Sometimes, unity begins with something as simple and as powerful as bringing people together in the same room.

By Uba Sani Continuity Project

2027: Ex-Jaba LG Boss Dr. Nita Byack George Joins Race for Zangon-Kataf/Jaba Federal Constituency

By Grace Buba

A former Administrator of Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Hon. (Dr.) Nita Byack George, has formally declared her intention to contest for the House of Representatives seat for Zangon-Kataf/Jaba Federal Constituency in the 2027 general elections. She will be running under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking during her declaration at the APC Party Office in Zonkwa, George said her decision to join the race was driven by a strong sense of duty, years of grassroots engagement, and the urgent need to deliver practical governance to the people.

“I have not come merely to declare an ambition; I have come to answer a call—one rooted in my record of service, the urgency of our times, and the political moment before us,” she said.

A Record of Service and Grassroots Engagement

George, who highlighted nearly two decades of community engagement, pointed to her track record in peacebuilding, women empowerment, and infrastructure development as evidence of her readiness for higher responsibility.

She referenced several key initiatives:

· Farmers/Herders Peace Treaty: Promoted dialogue and reduced communal tensions.
· Sha’ruwa Lafia Project: Improved access to clean drinking water.
· Taimakon Jarin Mata: A programme focused on empowering women economically.

According to her, her experience as a local government administrator demonstrated that governance could be “disciplined, accountable, and close to the people.”

An Opportunity for Tested Leadership

The aspirant described her declaration as one focused on “execution, not just aspiration,” noting that the decision of the incumbent lawmaker to contest for a Senate seat has created an opportunity for tested leadership to emerge.

While reaffirming support for the Reserved Seats Bill aimed at improving women’s representation, she stressed that inclusion must begin immediately through capable candidates who can win elections and deliver results.

Agenda Anchored on Three Priorities

George identified key challenges facing the constituency, including deficits in infrastructure, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and economic growth, pledging to address them through legislation and effective representation.

Outlining her agenda, she said her candidacy was anchored on three priorities:

Supporting existing leadership to succeed.
Translating policies into tangible projects.
Strengthening democratic representation.

She aligned her vision with the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, particularly in advancing gender and youth inclusion.

“If entrusted with this mandate, I will ensure our voices are heard at the national level and that governance is brought closer to our people,” she said.

She further pledged to champion laws that would enhance security, expand economic opportunities, and provide structured support for youth and women.

A Call for Unity and Inclusion

Appealing to party stakeholders and constituents, George called for unity and collective action to secure victory for the APC. She urged women to mobilise as partners in governance and encouraged men to embrace inclusion as a strategic necessity.

She also addressed young people and persons with disabilities, assuring them that her campaign would prioritise their needs through policies and budgetary provisions that create real opportunities.

Campaign Structure Inaugurated

The declaration event followed the commissioning of her campaign office in Kwoi and the inauguration of her campaign structure, including the Team Nita Network (TNN).

George called on the people of Zangon-Kataf/Jaba to support her candidacy, promising responsive and impactful representation.

“I am ready to serve, and with your support, we will achieve greater things together,” she said.

2027: Ex-Jaba LG Boss Dr. Nita Byack George Joins Race for Zangon-Kataf/Jaba Federal Constituency

By Yahaya Bello

“I have not come merely to declare an ambition; I have come to answer a call—one rooted in my record of service, the urgency of our times, and the political moment before us,” she said.

A Record of Service and Grassroots Engagement

She referenced several key initiatives:

According to her, her experience as a local government administrator demonstrated that governance could be “disciplined, accountable, and close to the people.”

An Opportunity for Tested Leadership

Agenda Anchored on Three Priorities

Outlining her agenda, she said her candidacy was anchored on three priorities:

Supporting existing leadership to succeed.
Translating policies into tangible projects.
Strengthening democratic representation.

She aligned her vision with the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, particularly in advancing gender and youth inclusion.

“If entrusted with this mandate, I will ensure our voices are heard at the national level and that governance is brought closer to our people,” she said.

She further pledged to champion laws that would enhance security, expand economic opportunities, and provide structured support for youth and women.

A Call for Unity and Inclusion

She also addressed young people and persons with disabilities, assuring them that her campaign would prioritise their needs through policies and budgetary provisions that create real opportunities.

Campaign Structure Inaugurated

The declaration event followed the commissioning of her campaign office in Kwoi and the inauguration of her campaign structure, including the Team Nita Network (TNN).

George called on the people of Zangon-Kataf/Jaba to support her candidacy, promising responsive and impactful representation.

“I am ready to serve, and with your support, we will achieve greater things together,” she said.

NDI-ABAT Warns Peter Obi Over 2023 Election Claims, Cautions Against 2027 Political Tension

By Musa Maye

A group, NdIgbo for Tinubu 2027 Forum (NDI-ABAT), has cautioned former Anambra State governor, Mr. Peter Obi, over his continued assertion that he won the 2023 presidential election, warning that such remarks could heighten political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and jointly signed by its National Coordinator, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and Secretary General, Dr. Ugwuoke Ugwuoke, the group described Mr. Obi’s repeated claims as misleading, saying they risk deepening political divisions if not properly checked.

NDI-ABAT warned that inflammatory political narratives, particularly in a pre-election period, could destabilise the polity, urging political actors to exercise restraint and responsibility in their public engagements.

“The persistent assertion of victory in the 2023 presidential election, despite the declared outcome, risks fuelling unnecessary political tension and public distrust in the democratic process. If not managed responsibly, such narratives may become a source of avoidable unrest in the build-up to 2027”.

The group also urged Mr. Obi to be mindful of the influence of his statements on his supporters, stressing the need for caution in political communication to preserve national stability.

The group further referenced his tenure as governor of Anambra State, alleging shortcomings in governance, including the non-conduct of local government elections during his administration and what it described as limited visible infrastructural development in key sectors.

NDI-ABAT expressed concern that continued disputes over the 2023 election outcome could overshadow national development discussions if political actors fail to moderate their rhetoric.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the forum reiterated its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while calling for peaceful political engagement and strict adherence to democratic principles.

The forum urged politicians to avoid statements capable of escalating tensions, insisting that national unity and stability must remain a priority.

Foreign Actors Warned Against Using Religion to Fuel Political Tensions in Nigeria

By Adeh Ogebe

A Muslim advocacy group, the Muslim League Unity Group, has cautioned against what it described as attempts by foreign-based actors to inflame religious tensions in Nigeria through misinformation and politically motivated narratives.

In a statement jointly signed by Professor Ahmed Umar Daudu and Dr. Yunusa Bala Maikafi, the group alleged that certain international Christian organisations, particularly from the United States, are circulating what it called “doctored reports” about the alleged mistreatment of Christians under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The group maintained that Nigerians of different faiths have historically coexisted peacefully and warned that such narratives risk creating unnecessary divisions and distrust among citizens.

According to the statement, some of the organisations behind the reports are relatively unknown groups that have been spreading claims of targeted violence against specific religious communities, a development the group described as “dangerous and capable of plunging the country into chaos,” particularly as the 2027 general elections approach.

The group also criticised recent remarks attributed to U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, which it said alleged attacks on Christian schools and places of worship by Muslims in Nigeria. It described the comments as part of a broader agenda to incite division and promote religious intolerance.

Similarly, the statement took issue with allegations reportedly linked to Kimberly Daniels, accusing her of calling for the dismissal of Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle. The group dismissed the claims as unfounded and politically motivated.

It argued that while public officials, including Matawalle and the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, should be held accountable, such scrutiny must be based on verifiable evidence and due process rather than “external pressure or religious bias.”

The group further alleged a pattern in what it described as foreign-driven accusations against prominent Nigerian figures, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and President Tinubu.

Defending Matawalle’s record, the group stated that no court conviction, official indictment, or audit report has directly implicated him in wrongdoing, either during his tenure as Zamfara State governor or in his current role.

The statement expressed confidence in Matawalle’s capacity to serve effectively and contribute to national security efforts.

It also questioned attempts to link the Federal Government or its officials to extremist activities, asking critics to provide credible evidence for such claims.

While acknowledging security challenges globally, including in the United States, the group urged both domestic and international stakeholders to avoid narratives that could deepen religious divisions in Nigeria.

The statement concluded by calling for restraint, mutual respect, and a commitment to preserving Nigeria’s long-standing culture of religious coexistence.

Atiku Abubakar Meets Abdulaziz Yari Privately in Abuja

Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, held a private meeting with former Governor of Zamfara State and Senator representing Zamfara West, Abdulaziz Yari, in Abuja.

The newspaper Daily Trust reported that the meeting took place at Atiku Abubakar’s residence in Abuja and was conducted behind closed doors without the presence of journalists.

After the meeting, neither of them spoke to the press, and as of the time of filing the report, no official statement had been released explaining the purpose of the meeting.

However, the meeting might not be unconnected with the political calculations surrounding the 2027 presidential elections .

Petrol Station Workers Cry Out Over Marginalisation in NUPENG Reforms

By Our Correspondent

April 20, 2026

A group of Concerned Petrol Station Workers (PSWs) across Nigeria has accused the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) of systematically excluding them from ongoing restructuring processes, zonal elections, and preparations for national conferences.

In a strongly-worded press statement issued on Monday, the workers declared that despite being one of the largest and most visible segments of the downstream petroleum workforce, they remain “unstructured, insufficiently protected, and inadequately integrated” into the union’s decision-making architecture.

The group, led by Comrade Ibrahim Zango, acknowledged NUPENG’s efforts to reposition itself for greater efficiency and stronger representation. However, it expressed deep concern over what it called the “continued marginalisation and underrepresentation” of petrol station workers within these critical reform processes.

According to the statement, available records show that NUPENG is actively conducting zonal council elections and leadership restructuring across its branches. The union has also recently engaged in advancing workers’ rights, including its insistence on unionisation within major industry operations.

But the PSWs insist that in practice, they face poor welfare conditions, weak organisational structures, and limited voice within the union framework.

“Unarguably, petrol station workers constitute a critical mass within the downstream petroleum sector. They remain among the most vulnerable, facing exploitation, poor remuneration, and lack of social protection,” the statement read. “Their exclusion from ongoing reforms undermines the very essence of unionisation and collective bargaining.”

The workers therefore issued a four-point demand to the leadership of NUPENG:

Recognise and formalise the Petrol Station Workers structure across all zones.
Ensure the inclusion of PSW representatives in all ongoing zonal elections and national conference processes.
Prioritise the welfare, safety, and rights of petrol station workers through targeted policies and enforcement mechanisms.
Create a clear framework for the organisation, registration, and protection of PSWs nationwide.

The group described the ongoing reforms as a “historic opportunity to correct longstanding imbalances within the union” and reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement and industrial harmony.

NUPENG officials had yet to respond to the allegations as of press time.

A CLARION CALL: LET AVM ADAMU LEAD THE MILITARY PENSIONS BOARD TO RENEWED HOPE FOR VETERANS

Abuja, FCT The Governance and Leadership Reforms Network (GLRN) makes this heartfelt appeal to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to graciously instruct for the immediate implementation of the appointment of Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Idris Adamu (Rtd) as Chairman, Military Pensions Board (MPB).

A Leader Prepared by Service
AVM Adamu (Rtd) is not a stranger to discipline, integrity, or institutional reform. A distinguished senior officer of the Nigerian Air Force, his career reflects decades of meritorious service marked by operational excellence, financial prudence, and uncommon empathy for personnel welfare. In every command he held, he left behind systems that worked and people who were better. That is the pedigree the Military Pensions Board needs today.

The Value He Brings: Competence Meets Compassion
The MPB is more than an administrative office. It is the last bridge between the nation and the men and women who gave it their youth, their strength, and sometimes their health. Under AVM Adamu’s leadership, we are confident the Board will witness a new era defined by:

Prudent Management: Deployment of digital audit trails, transparent payment schedules, and strict adherence to the Standing Operating Procedure to eliminate delays and leakages.
Welfare-Centered Innovation: Introduction of a Veterans Welfare Desk, quarterly town-halls with retirees, and a simplified verification process that respects age and dignity.
Institutional Renovation: Modernization of MPB directorates for the Army, Navy, and Air Force to ensure seamless, data-driven pension administration and rapid response to veterans’ needs.
Trust Restoration: Open-door policy and published service charters to rebuild confidence among retired military personnel and their families.

Why the Delay Hurts Those Who Served
For five months since presidential approval was granted effective December 1, 2025, our veterans have waited. Every day of delay is a day a widow waits for her entitlement, a day an amputee struggles without support, a day the nation appears to forget. AVM Adamu’s appointment was not just an administrative act; it was a promise to those who defended us. That promise must be kept.

Our Clarion Call
We respectfully urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose Renewed Hope Agenda rests on Security and Welfare, to direct the immediate resumption of AVM Abubakar Idris Adamu (Rtd) as Chairman, MPB.

Let this competent, compassionate officer bring his renovations to life. Let the Board become a model of prudent management and good welfare. Let our veterans see that Nigeria remembers, Nigeria cares, and Nigeria rewards sacrifice.

When a nation honors its veterans, it strengthens its future. When it delays their dignity, it weakens its soul.

Signed:
Comrade Ayuba Garba

National Convener
Governance and Leadership Reforms Network (GLRN)

AYAGL Backs Military Pensions Board Leadership, Withdraws Previous Criticism.

By Grace Buba

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has withdrawn its earlier criticism of the leadership of the Nigerian Military Pensions Board, declaring support for the current administration under Air Vice Marshal Mikail Abdulraheem.

In a press statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja, the group said its previous position was based on insufficient verification of facts, prompting a formal retraction and clarification to the public.

AYAGL President, Ambassador Abdul Danbature, stated that the decision followed “extensive consultations, fact-finding engagements, and independent inquiries,” which revealed notable reforms introduced by the board’s leadership.

According to the group, the reforms include measures aimed at improving transparency, strengthening pension administration processes, and enhancing the welfare of retired military personnel.

The statement noted that Abdulraheem has demonstrated commitment and effective leadership in repositioning the board, adding that such efforts should be encouraged rather than undermined by misinformation.

“We have come to the conclusion that our earlier criticism was not based on sufficient verification of facts. We hereby withdraw those statements and offer our sincere clarification to the Nigerian public,” the statement read.

The group also raised concerns over what it described as confusion surrounding a purported appointment allegedly linked to Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Idris Adamu.

AYAGL called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and relevant security agencies to investigate the claims and clarify the situation to safeguard the integrity of public institutions.

It further urged members of the public, particularly youths in Northern Nigeria, to avoid being used for political manipulation or actions capable of undermining national institutions.

The group reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountability, peace, and constructive engagement, while pledging continued support for initiatives that advance transparency and national development.

AYAGL reiterated its backing for the leadership of the Military Pensions Board and called for sustained reforms to improve the welfare of retired members of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

ENDS