All posts by Our Reporter

NEWS

Governor Otti Hails Most Rev. Prof. Miracle Ajah’s Transformational Leadership as Presbyterian Church Honours Outgoing Principal Clerk

Leave a comment

The Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has paid glowing tribute to the outgoing Principal Clerk of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Most Rev. Prof. Miracle Ajah, describing his six-year tenure as one marked by exemplary leadership, integrity, and enduring service to God and humanity.

Governor Otti gave the commendation on Sunday during the Sendoff Thanksgiving Service held in honour of Most Rev. Prof. Ajah at the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria (PCN) Ehere Model Parish, Aba. The Governor was represented at the event by his Deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE.

Delivering the Governor’s goodwill message, Deputy Governor Emetu said the Government and people of Abia State were delighted to join the Presbyterian family in celebrating a distinguished church leader whose stewardship from 2020 to 2026 strengthened the administrative framework of the Church and advanced its mission of evangelism.

According to him, Most Rev. Prof. Ajah’s tenure was distinguished by wisdom, humility, discipline, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the work of God, qualities that fostered unity within the Church and left behind a lasting legacy of impactful leadership.

The Deputy Governor also conveyed Governor Otti’s appreciation to the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria for its longstanding contributions to nation-building and for situating its national headquarters in Abia State. He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with faith-based organisations, stressing that sustainable development can only be achieved through collaboration among government, religious institutions, the private sector, traditional rulers, and the people.

He noted that the true measure of leadership lies not in the number of years spent in office but in the positive impact made on institutions and society.

In his exhortation, the Prelate and Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, His Eminence, Most Rev. Dr. Ekpenyong Akpanika, praised Most Rev. Prof. Ajah for his faithful, humble, and diligent service to the Church.

The Prelate reminded Christian leaders that ministry is fundamentally about serving God and humanity rather than pursuing personal ambitions. Quoting William Shakespeare’s famous words that “all the world’s a stage,” he urged believers to focus on building legacies of purposeful and selfless service, emphasizing that positions are temporary but impact endures.

Responding, an emotional Most Rev. Prof. Miracle Ajah expressed heartfelt gratitude to Almighty God for sustaining him throughout his tenure. He also appreciated Governor Alex Otti, the Church leadership, members of the General Assembly Executive Committee, ministers, elders, family members, friends, donors, and the entire Presbyterian community for their unwavering support and the honour bestowed on him.

A major highlight of the colourful thanksgiving service was the presentation of a 2019/2020 Toyota Highlander SUV to the outgoing Principal Clerk in recognition of his meritorious service and outstanding contributions to the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria.

The event attracted an array of distinguished personalities, including the President of the Abia State Leadership Academy and immediate past Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, senior government officials, prominent clergymen, traditional rulers, captains of industry, and members of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria.

The ceremony celebrated not only the successful completion of a remarkable six-year tenure but also the enduring legacy of faith, integrity, and visionary leadership that Most Rev. Prof. Miracle Ajah leaves behind.

NEWS

SERAP Raises Alarm Over Data Protection Amendment Bill, Warns It Could Become Tool for Social Media Control

Leave a comment

Rights Group Urges National Assembly to Withdraw Proposed Law, Citing Threats to Free Expression, Digital Economy.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on the leadership of the National Assembly to immediately reject the proposed Nigeria Data Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2026, warning that the legislation could create a pathway for excessive government control over social media platforms and online expression.

In a letter dated July 18, 2026, addressed to Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, SERAP argued that the Bill, sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko (APC, Delta North), contains provisions that could undermine constitutional rights and Nigeria’s growing digital economy.

The organisation said the proposed amendment, while presented as a measure to strengthen data protection compliance, could have far-reaching consequences by empowering regulators to restrict the operations of technology companies and digital platforms.

According to SERAP, the controversial provision requiring social media platforms, data controllers and processors operating in Nigeria to establish physical offices in the country could increase government influence over digital platforms and expose companies to undue pressure.

“The Bill is a backdoor attempt to regulate social media and expand governmental control over online expression through corporate localisation requirements rather than through transparent and constitutionally permissible regulation,” SERAP stated.

Concern Over NDPC Shutdown Powers

A major concern raised by the rights group is the proposed power granted to the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) to prohibit the operations of any company that fails to establish a physical presence in Nigeria within 30 days.

SERAP argued that such authority could allow an administrative agency to impose sanctions equivalent to shutting down digital communication platforms without adequate legal safeguards.

The group noted that the Bill does not provide for prior judicial approval, independent review mechanisms, or consideration of less restrictive alternatives before a platform can be prohibited from operating.

According to SERAP, “the practical consequences for millions of Nigerians would be indistinguishable from a platform ban.”

The organisation warned that millions of citizens rely on digital platforms for communication, business activities, education, political participation, civic engagement and access to information.

SERAP Cites Previous Twitter Suspension Controversy

SERAP also referenced the 2021 suspension of Twitter operations in Nigeria, which was later criticised by the ECOWAS Court of Justice as violating citizens’ rights to freedom of expression, access to information and media freedom.

The organisation argued that although the proposed amendment differs from the Twitter suspension in form, it could produce a similar outcome by giving regulators the ability to indirectly prevent digital platforms from operating in Nigeria.

“The National Assembly should not enact legislation capable of producing, through indirect regulatory means, the very restrictions on fundamental rights that regional human rights law prohibits,” SERAP said.

Balancing Regulation With Digital Rights
SERAP acknowledged that governments have a legitimate interest in ensuring that digital platforms operate responsibly and comply with national laws.

However, the group stressed that regulation must respect constitutional guarantees and international human rights standards.

It argued that digital policies should promote transparency, accountability and user protection rather than create mechanisms that could encourage censorship, surveillance or political interference.

The organisation cited Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights as protections for freedom of expression and access to information.

Possible Impact on Nigeria’s Technology Sector

Beyond human rights concerns, SERAP warned that mandatory localisation requirements could negatively affect Nigeria’s technology ecosystem by increasing compliance costs for startups, artificial intelligence developers, research institutions and emerging digital businesses.

The group argued that the requirement could conflict with the objectives of the Nigeria Startup Act 2022 and the country’s digital economy policies, which seek to attract innovation and investment.

According to SERAP, forcing technology companies to establish physical offices as a condition for operating in Nigeria could reduce the country’s competitiveness as a destination for global technology investment.

SERAP Threatens Legal Challenge

The organisation warned that if the Bill is passed in its current form or with similar provisions, it would consider legal action to challenge its constitutionality.

SERAP urged lawmakers to withdraw the proposal and instead focus on regulatory approaches that protect citizens’ data while preserving digital freedoms.

The group called on the National Assembly to demonstrate commitment to constitutional democracy, rule of law and Nigeria’s digital future by rejecting provisions it described as excessive and potentially harmful.

POLITICS

Appeal Court Judgment Rocks ADC Ahead of 2027: Atiku’s Presidential Ticket Faces Legal Uncertainty as Party’s National Convention Declared Invalid

Leave a comment

A major Court of Appeal ruling has dealt a significant blow to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), raising fresh legal questions over the party’s preparations for the 2027 general elections and the validity of candidates emerging from its national processes.

Constitutional lawyer Aloy Ejimakor, in an analysis of the judgment, said the Court of Appeal effectively declared the ADC’s national convention a nullity, a decision that could have far-reaching implications for the party’s primaries and candidate selection.

According to Ejimakor, the ruling casts serious doubt on the legitimacy of every nomination that originated from the invalidated national convention, including the party’s presidential ticket.

Atiku’s Candidacy Faces Fresh Legal Questions

Although the ADC has publicly maintained that its 2027 presidential ticket remains intact, Ejimakor argued that the judgment creates considerable legal uncertainty around the candidacy of Atiku Abubakar, who emerged as the party’s presidential standard-bearer through the disputed national process.

He noted that if the convention that produced party decisions has been nullified, nominations arising from that exercise could also become vulnerable to legal challenge.

INEC Restricted From Recognizing Disputed Party Leadership

A central aspect of the judgment, according to Ejimakor, is its implication for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

He explained that the electoral commission is now legally restricted from recognizing congresses or activities conducted under the ADC’s disputed national caretaker leadership headed by David Mark.

Instead, he argued that INEC would be expected to conduct its dealings through the party’s duly elected state structures, which the court affirmed as the legitimate organs responsible for organizing state congresses.

According to the legal interpretation, the commission may now adopt a state-first approach, recognizing only activities carried out by constitutionally elected state executives rather than directives issued by the contested national caretaker committee.

Court Upholds Powers of State Chapters

Ejimakor described the judgment as a strong affirmation of the constitutional authority of the ADC’s state chapters.

According to his analysis, the Court of Appeal held that the power to organize state congresses rests exclusively with the party’s elected State Executive Committees and not with the national caretaker leadership.

The court also reportedly affirmed that elected state chairmen are entitled to complete their constitutionally guaranteed four-year tenure, preventing their removal through actions taken by the disputed national leadership.

This aspect of the ruling effectively strengthens the autonomy of state chapters while weakening the authority of the national caretaker committee.

What the Judgment Means for ADC

The decision presents both opportunities and challenges for the opposition party.
On one hand, the affirmation of state executive committees provides a constitutional pathway for organizing congresses and primaries that could receive INEC’s recognition.

On the other hand, the nullification of the national convention raises significant uncertainty over the legality of national-level decisions already taken, including the emergence of candidates for major elective offices.

Political observers believe the judgment could trigger fresh legal battles within the party as stakeholders seek clarity on the status of its national leadership and candidate nomination process.

A Defining Moment Ahead of the 2027 Elections

With political realignments intensifying ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Court of Appeal’s decision represents a critical moment for the ADC.

If the legal interpretation advanced by Ejimakor prevails, the party may be compelled to revisit aspects of its internal processes to avoid future disputes over the validity of its candidates.

While the ADC insists that its presidential ticket remains unaffected, the ruling has undoubtedly introduced fresh legal and political questions that could shape the party’s strategy in the months leading to the 2027 polls.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, attention will now turn to INEC, the ADC leadership, and the courts to determine how the judgment will influence the party’s participation in Nigeria’s next general election.

NEWS

2027 Elections Under Spotlight as INEC Moves to Purge Dead Voters from Register, Partners NIMC for Credible Polls

Leave a comment

As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, the credibility of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) voters’ register has come under renewed public scrutiny following a startling revelation that the register still contains the names of people who died many years ago.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, disclosed that the electoral commission’s register still includes names of deceased Nigerians, some of whom reportedly died as far back as 15 years ago. The disclosure has intensified concerns over the integrity of the country’s electoral process, with many Nigerians warning that an inaccurate register could undermine public confidence in the 2027 elections and create opportunities for electoral malpractice.
The INEC Chairman made the revelation while receiving the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, and her management team during a courtesy visit in Abuja.
INEC, NIMC Deepen Partnership to Clean Up Voter Register
Prof. Amupitan announced that INEC and NIMC have strengthened their collaboration to sanitize Nigeria’s voter register by leveraging the National Identity Number (NIN) database for identity verification and continuous auditing of voter records.
According to him, the initiative is expected to eliminate deceased voters, duplicate registrations, underage registrants, and other irregularities that have long affected the integrity of the electoral database.
He explained that maintaining an accurate voter register would also significantly reduce the cost of conducting elections, as INEC currently prints electoral materials based on more than 100 million registered voters, many of whom may no longer be eligible.
The INEC Chairman further noted that the newly enacted NIMC Act 2026 provides a stronger legal framework for integrating identity management into Nigeria’s electoral system.
With NIMC’s database now containing over 136 million enrolled Nigerians, he expressed confidence that continuous synchronization between both agencies would improve the accuracy of voter registration and strengthen electoral transparency.
He also highlighted INEC’s recently introduced online voter registration platform, which now uses the National Identification Number (NIN) as the primary verification tool during Continuous Voter Registration (CVR).
Experts Warn Against Electoral Manipulation
The revelation has sparked widespread reactions from election observers and public affairs analysts, many of whom argue that retaining deceased persons on the voter register creates opportunities for electoral fraud.
Political analyst and university lecturer, Dr. Samuel Adegboye, described the development as a major loophole that could facilitate election manipulation.
According to him, inflated voter registers make it easier for unscrupulous politicians working with compromised electoral officials to manipulate election figures.
He commended the INEC Chairman for publicly acknowledging the problem but insisted that the admission must be followed by concrete action.
Dr. Adegboye also urged INEC to go beyond removing deceased voters by identifying and eliminating “ghost voters”—non-existent identities allegedly inserted into the register.
Drawing comparisons with Nigeria’s long-standing challenges of ghost workers in the public service and recently exposed cases of fictitious government agencies, he argued that similar fraudulent practices could also exist within the nation’s electoral database.
Financial Benefits of an Accurate Register
Stakeholders also emphasized the financial implications of maintaining an inflated voter register.
Retired civil servant Johnson Adewale noted that cleaning the register would eliminate unnecessary expenditure on printing ballot papers, voter cards, and other election materials for ineligible or non-existent voters.
He explained that accurate voter data would enable INEC to plan elections more efficiently while reducing opportunities for overproduction of electoral materials.
According to him, although sanitizing the register may not completely eliminate electoral malpractice, it would significantly reduce avenues for manipulation and improve the credibility of election outcomes.
Nigerians Demand Action, Not Promises
Former local government councillor Kolade Adegboyega welcomed INEC’s decision to collaborate with NIMC but stressed that Nigerians are more interested in tangible reforms than official assurances.
He urged the electoral commission to remove every obstacle capable of undermining the credibility of the 2027 general elections, describing a clean and verifiable voter register as the foundation of any transparent electoral process.
Similarly, lawyer and public affairs commentator Jason Osazuwa described the existence of deceased persons on the voter register as a reflection of Nigeria’s longstanding challenges with data management.
He called on INEC to match its promises with decisive action, insisting that Nigerians deserve elections built on integrity, transparency, and public trust.
A Critical Test Ahead of 2027
With preparations for the 2027 general elections gradually taking shape, INEC’s partnership with NIMC represents one of the most significant electoral reforms in recent years.
If effectively implemented, the integration of the National Identity Database with the voter register could help eliminate duplicate registrations, remove deceased and underage voters, reduce election costs, and strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.
However, many Nigerians believe that the success of the initiative will ultimately be measured not by announcements or policy declarations, but by the credibility, transparency, and acceptance of the 2027 general election results.

COMMENTARY

Ukraine War Veterans Could Fuel Africa’s Next Wave of Instability, Experts Warn

Leave a comment

As the war in Ukraine continues to reshape global security, analysts are raising concerns about an overlooked consequence that could have far-reaching implications for Africa: the eventual return of battle-hardened foreign fighters and military contractors.

Security experts warn that the end of the conflict could see thousands of experienced combatants seeking new opportunities abroad, potentially increasing the risk of instability across parts of the African continent.

According to researchers Brown and Krause, history offers a sobering precedent. After the internal conflicts in South Africa and the former Rhodesia ended, many ex-soldiers transitioned into mercenary activities, participating in conflicts and coup attempts across Africa. Some found employment with private military companies, most notably South Africa’s Executive Outcomes, which became one of the continent’s most influential private military firms in the 1990s.

Today, Russia maintains a significant military footprint in Africa through the Wagner Group and its rebranded successor, the Africa Corps, with thousands of contractors deployed across several countries. Analysts believe those numbers could grow substantially once the war in Ukraine comes to an end.

Brown and Krause argue that Russian President Vladimir Putin may have strategic reasons to keep large numbers of demobilised soldiers and military contractors engaged overseas rather than allowing them to return home in large numbers. They suggest that overseas deployments could help reduce domestic security risks following the armed mutiny led by the late Wagner chief, Yevgeny Prigozhin, in June 2023.

Beyond Russian contractors, African nationals who have participated in the Ukraine conflict also present a potential long-term security challenge. Security analyst Njogu cautions that some returning fighters may bring home not only advanced combat skills but also extremist political and military ideologies developed during the war.

He warns that even a relatively small number of highly trained and ideologically driven individuals could have an outsized impact in countries already struggling with weak institutions, political instability, or armed insurgencies.

However, experts stress that such an outcome is not inevitable.

The extent of the threat, they argue, will depend largely on how effectively African governments prepare for the return of these fighters. Strong border security, comprehensive reintegration and employment programmes, capable intelligence and law-enforcement agencies, and closer regional cooperation will all be critical in preventing experienced combatants from becoming catalysts for future conflicts.

As the world focuses on the battlefield in Eastern Europe, analysts say African policymakers must also begin planning for the conflict’s long-term consequences closer to home. The decisions made today could determine whether returning veterans become contributors to peace and development—or new drivers of instability across the continent.

NEWS

A Sacred Calling Fulfilled: Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Ndukaku Ukaegbu Ordained Catholic Priest in Umuahia

Leave a comment

The Catholic faithful, family members, friends, and well-wishers gathered in joyful celebration as Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Ndukaku Ukaegbu was ordained a priest of the Holy Catholic Church in a solemn and spiritually uplifting ceremony held at the Mater Dei Cathedral, Umuahia.

The sacred ordination was presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, His Lordship, Most Rev. Michael Kalu Ukpong, who conferred the Sacrament of Holy Orders on the ordinand, officially admitting him into the sacred priesthood of the Catholic Church.

The ordination Mass drew a large congregation of priests, religious men and women, seminarians, family members, friends, and faithful from different parts of the country who came to witness the historic milestone in the life of the new priest. The atmosphere inside the cathedral was filled with reverence, prayer, thanksgiving, and heartfelt joy as the Church welcomed another labourer into the Lord’s vineyard.

In his homily, Bishop Ukpong reminded the newly ordained priest of the enormous responsibility that accompanies the priestly vocation. He urged Rev. Fr. Ukaegbu to remain steadfast in faith, unwavering in the proclamation of the Gospel, faithful in the celebration of the sacraments, compassionate in pastoral ministry, and dedicated to serving God’s people with humility, integrity, and selfless love.

The faithful also joined in fervent prayers, asking God to grant the new priest wisdom, courage, holiness, and the grace to remain faithful to his sacred calling throughout his priestly ministry.

Following the ordination ceremony, guests proceeded to the Jubilee Auditorium, Mater Dei, Umuahia, where a colourful reception was held in honour of the newly ordained priest. The event featured goodwill messages, prayers, music, cultural entertainment, and expressions of appreciation from family members, friends, parishioners, and associates who celebrated the remarkable achievement.

Adding colour to the day’s celebration was a novelty football match organised in honour of the new priest. The friendly encounter featured the Seminarians against members of St. Theresa’s Catholic Youth Organization (CYON) and attracted enthusiastic spectators. The Seminarians emerged victorious with a 2–1 win in an entertaining contest that further reflected the spirit of joy and fraternity that characterised the celebration.

The reception also provided an opportunity for loved ones and members of the Christian community to felicitate with Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Ndukaku Ukaegbu and encourage him as he embarks on a lifelong mission of preaching the Gospel, administering the sacraments, and shepherding the faithful.

The celebration was marked by an impressive turnout, reflecting the deep affection and support the new priest enjoys within both the Church and the wider community. Guests described the occasion as inspiring and a testament to God’s abiding grace in raising faithful servants for His Church.

Priestly ordination remains one of the most sacred moments in the life of the Catholic Church, symbolising total commitment to Christ and selfless service to humanity. For Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Ndukaku Ukaegbu, the ceremony marks the beginning of a lifelong journey dedicated to evangelisation, pastoral care, the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, and the spiritual growth of God’s people.

As congratulations continue to pour in from across the Umuahia Diocese and beyond, the faithful remain united in prayer that God will strengthen His newly ordained servant with abundant grace, wisdom, good health, and perseverance, enabling him to faithfully fulfil the sacred mission entrusted to him.

The ordination of Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Ndukaku Ukaegbu stands as a powerful reminder that God continues to call men into His service, raising faithful shepherds to lead His people with love, humility, and unwavering commitment to the Gospel.

Congratulations to Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Ndukaku Ukaegbu on his priestly ordination. May the Lord bless his ministry abundantly and make him a worthy instrument of His peace, mercy, and love for generations to come.

Birthday

Geometric Power Changed Abia’s Future — Gov. Otti Hails Barth Nnaji at 70, Credits Project for Industrial Revolution

Leave a comment

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has declared that the successful delivery of the Geometric Power Project has become the cornerstone of Abia’s economic transformation, saying the landmark investment has unlocked industrial growth, improved energy stability, and accelerated the state’s transition to clean transportation.

Speaking on Friday, July 17, 2026, at the International Conference Centre, Enugu, during the 70th birthday celebration of the Chairman and Founder of Geometric Power Limited, Professor Barth Nnaji, Governor Otti described the renowned engineer and former Minister of Power as a visionary whose resilience has changed the economic fortunes of Abia State.

The Governor praised Professor Nnaji’s exceptional brilliance and determination, noting that his academic achievements and pioneering work in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics came long before the technologies gained global prominence.

“At a time when Artificial Intelligence was still in its infancy, Professor Nnaji had already seen the future,” Governor Otti remarked, adding that the celebrated professor completed a four-year programme at St. John’s University, New York, in just two years and nine months before earning his Master’s degree in 1982 and a PhD a year later.

Otti Credits National Leaders for Saving Geometric Power

Governor Otti also acknowledged the critical contributions of several national leaders whose interventions ensured the survival and eventual completion of the Aba Integrated Power Project.

He singled out the 16th Emir of Kano and former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, His Royal Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II, CON, for what he described as a decisive intervention during his leadership at the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON).

Recalling the difficult financial period faced by the project, Governor Otti revealed that Sanusi approved the acquisition of Geometric Power’s loan from Diamond Bank, making it possible for the project to access additional financing and continue construction.

He equally commended former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, GCFR, for approving the Aba Ring-fenced Power Project in 2004, a decision he described as the foundation upon which Geometric Power was built.

Governor Otti also applauded Vice President Kashim Shettima for facilitating the gas supply that enabled the commissioning of the Geometric Power Plant in February 2024.

Geometric Power Driving Abia’s Economic Renaissance

According to Governor Otti, the impact of stable electricity is already transforming Abia’s economy.

He disclosed that the availability of reliable power gave his administration the confidence to launch the state’s electric mass transit programme.

“Some of the things happening in Abia today are because we now have power. It was after the emergence of Geometric that we launched our first fleet of electric buses, and the second batch will arrive within the next week,” the Governor said.

He urged Nigerians to emulate Professor Nnaji’s perseverance, innovation, and determination, describing him as a rare example of someone who remained committed to a vision for over two decades without immediate financial reward.

Sanusi: Abia Is Proof That Electricity Drives Economic Growth

Delivering the keynote lecture titled “Energy Security and Innovative Service,” former CBN Governor and the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, described energy security as the engine of sustainable economic development.

Using Abia State as a practical example, Sanusi said the transformation taking place in the state clearly demonstrates the direct relationship between reliable electricity and economic prosperity.

“If you want to see the impact of electricity on an economy, just look at Geometric and the transformation in Abia. This is living evidence of what people think is theory,” he said.

He described Professor Nnaji as a visionary whose unwavering commitment eventually turned one of Nigeria’s most ambitious private-sector power projects into reality.

Barth Nnaji Appreciates Otti, Sanusi for Standing by Geometric

In his response, Professor Barth Nnaji expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the realization of the Geometric Power Project and thanked family members, friends, associates, and guests for celebrating his 70th birthday.

He paid special tribute to Governor Alex Otti and Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, acknowledging their steadfast support during the project’s most difficult years.

Professor Nnaji particularly recalled their efforts in securing financing for the project and facilitating the conversion of its loans from dollars to naira, describing their contributions as invaluable.

“We thank you, Dr. Alex Otti, for your reliable support and partnership. It is quite incredible that you eventually became Governor of Abia State at the very time this project was completed,” he said.

Biography Unveiled

A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of Professor Barth Nnaji’s biography titled The Man Who Dared: The Story of Bart Nnaji, chronicling his remarkable journey, resilience, and enduring legacy in Nigeria’s power sector.

The ceremony attracted an impressive gathering of national leaders and distinguished personalities, including former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, former Anambra State Governor Mr. Peter Obi, Mrs. Uche Azikiwe, wife of Nigeria’s first President, the Abia State Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday, captains of industry, academics, and other eminent Nigerians.

The event reinforced the growing recognition of the Geometric Power Project as one of Nigeria’s most impactful private-sector infrastructure investments and a catalyst for Abia State’s ongoing economic renaissance.

Birthday

Abia Deputy Governor’s Wife, Adaeze Emetu, Celebrates Birthday as Staff Hail Her Compassion and Service

Leave a comment

The Management and Staff of the Office of the Deputy Governor of Abia State have extended warm birthday felicitations to the wife of the Deputy Governor, Her Excellency, Mrs. Adaeze Chidera Emetu, describing her as a woman of grace, compassion, humility, and exceptional service to humanity.

In a goodwill message issued on Friday and signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba, the staff commended Mrs. Emetu’s unwavering commitment to family values and her support for initiatives that promote the welfare of women, children, and vulnerable members of society.

According to the message, Mrs. Emetu’s exemplary lifestyle and dedication to humanitarian causes have earned her admiration and respect from many across Abia State.

The Office noted that her steadfast support for the vision of the present administration continues to inspire hope and encourage meaningful service to the people of the state.

The Management and Staff prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the celebrant, asking Him to grant her good health, divine wisdom, renewed strength, peace, and many more years of purposeful living.

They also expressed confidence that Mrs. Emetu would continue to make valuable contributions to the development of Abia State alongside her husband, the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE.

The congratulatory message concluded by wishing Her Excellency a joyful celebration and many happy returns, while reaffirming the Office’s appreciation for her exemplary character and enduring commitment to service.

SPORTS

Messi Leads Golden Boot Race, Tops FIFA Power Rankings Ahead of World Cup Final

Leave a comment

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has taken pole position in the race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot after FIFA released its latest player rankings ahead of Sunday’s highly anticipated final against Spain.

Messi currently leads the scoring chart with eight goals and four assists, narrowly edging France captain Kylian Mbappe, who has also scored eight goals but has registered only three assists. Under FIFA regulations, assists serve as the first tiebreaker when players finish level on goals.

The two football icons still have opportunities to add to their totals before the tournament concludes. Messi will lead Argentina into the World Cup final against Spain on Sunday, while Mbappe will feature in France’s third-place playoff against England on Saturday.

Golden Boot Race Tightens

Norway striker Erling Haaland remains third on the scoring chart with seven goals despite Norway’s quarter-final elimination.

England duo Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane are tied in fourth place with six goals each, while Spain forward Mikel Oyarzabal is the highest-scoring player among the finalists after Messi, with five goals and one assist.

Messi Climbs FIFA Creativity Rankings

In addition to leading the Golden Boot standings, Messi has also surged to the top of FIFA’s Creativity Power Rankings, climbing five places following his impressive two-assist display in Argentina’s 2-1 semi-final victory over England.

The Argentine legend displaced France’s Michael Olise, with Belgium winger Jeremy Doku, Mbappe, and England’s Anthony Gordon completing the top five creative players of the tournament.

Mbappe Still Leads Attacking Rankings

Despite trailing Messi in the Golden Boot race, Mbappe continues to lead FIFA’s Attacking Rankings with an impressive rating of 8.93, ahead of Messi on 8.63 and England midfielder Jude Bellingham on 8.22.

In other positional rankings, Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa remains the tournament’s highest-rated shot-stopper in the “Defending the Goal” category, while England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford tops the “In Possession” rankings ahead of Spain’s Unai Simon.

With the World Cup reaching its climax, all eyes will be on Messi as he seeks to guide Argentina to another world title while strengthening his bid to finish as the tournament’s top scorer. The Golden Boot race remains wide open, promising an exciting conclusion to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

NEWS

$145 Million Solar Plant Set for Abia as Governor Otti Attracts Major Renewable Energy Investment

Leave a comment

Abia State has recorded another major investment breakthrough as a consortium of investors announced plans to establish a $145 million solar manufacturing plant in Umuelele, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.

The investors, led by Dr. Oko Jaja, formally briefed Governor Alex Otti on Thursday after reaching the Final Investment Decision (FID) stage—a milestone that confirms the project’s financial commitment and readiness for implementation.

Receiving the delegation at Government House, Umuahia, Governor Otti described the development as a strong endorsement of his administration’s economic policies and investor-friendly reforms.

“I’m glad that you have reached the final investment decision where you are investing up to 145 million dollars. This is exactly what we stand for—creating an enabling environment for businesses to grow and for people to invest,” the Governor said.

Governor Otti assured the investors of his administration’s continued support, noting that the government had already taken the necessary steps to make land available for the project.

“We have done everything required to make the land available, and if there is anything else you need, do not hesitate to let us know,” he added.

The Governor emphasized that beyond the financial value of the investment, the project would stimulate economic growth through job creation, increased Gross Domestic Product (GDP), industrial expansion, and improved prosperity for residents.

“We don’t take investors lightly. We protect investments because of the jobs they create, the growth they bring to the economy, and the prosperity they generate,” Otti stated.

Speaking on behalf of the investors, Dr. Oko Jaja disclosed that the project is being executed in partnership with Chinese investors, who are committing approximately $145 million to the establishment of the solar manufacturing facility.

He praised the Abia State Government for creating a conducive business environment through improved infrastructure, ease of doing business, and policies that inspire investor confidence.

According to him, the first tranche of funding is expected to be released in September 2026, paving the way for the next phase of implementation.

Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of MD NWAKANMA NIGERIA Limited, Mr. Dennis Madu Nwakamma, said the factory would be developed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with the Abia State Government.

He explained that Chinese technical partners had already visited the proposed project site for preliminary assessments, while construction is expected to commence by the end of September.

Beyond manufacturing solar panels and related components, Nwakamma said the project would significantly impact youth empowerment by creating employment opportunities and developing local technical expertise.

According to him, young Abians are already receiving training in solar installation and renewable energy technologies, while selected workers will undergo advanced manufacturing training in China once the factory begins operations.

The project is expected to position Abia as one of Nigeria’s emerging centres for renewable energy manufacturing while supporting the country’s transition to cleaner energy solutions.

Present at the meeting were the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday; the Commissioner for Lands, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije; the Director-General of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Office; and other senior government officials.