CJF commends TANTITA Security Services For Recent Rise In Nigeria’s Daily Crude Oil Production To 1.8M Bpd

Just recently, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri says that Nigeria’s crude oil production has risen to 1.8 million barrels per day.

This is a cherry news considering the fact that daily production of crude oil was in the neighborhood of 1 million barrels per day when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in 2023.

Concerned Journalist Forum (CJF) is impressed by this tremendous achievement and looks forward to more increase in crude oil production in the coming months.

CJF commends Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) for deploying topnotch professionalism and commitment to tackling oil theft and pipeline vandalism which has resulted in the shore up of the country’s daily production of crude oil in recent times.

We applaud TSSNL for catalyzing a significant development in the Nigerian petroleum industry which in recent past had been imperiled by worsening illegal bunkering and pipeline vandalism.

CJF recalls that there was a time the nation’s crude oil production drastically plummeted to less than 1 million barrels a day as a result of oil theft and vandalization of oil facilities. It was a troubling development that was at the verge of collapsing the Nigerian economy.

While the country celebrates this inspiring achievement, CJN urges the management of TSSNL to sustain their good work and ensure the production of crude oil hits 2 million barrels per day in no distant time.

CJF also calls on all stakeholders of the Nigerian petroleum sector to support TSSNL in their good work so that the Nigerian government could maximize the huge opportunities in the petroleum value chain to grow her economy.

CJF recalls that Nigeria’s 2025 budget financing is primarily based on an oil production benchmark of 2.06 million barrels per day (mbpd), with a crude oil price benchmark of $75 per barrel.

This is achievable when production of crude oil is not interrupted by incidents of oil theft and pipeline vandalism which cause collosal damage to the country’s petroleum industry and seriously harm the environment and the oil bearing communities.

CJF is excited at this ongoing improvement in crude oil production as it would shore up the country’s revenue and impact positively on the economic wellbeing of poor Nigerians.

Truth is, the Nigeria operates a mono-economy driven by petroleum. therefore, CJF seriously appeals to all Nigerians especially the ethnic nationalities that play host to oil facilities to promote peace among themselves and provide useful suggestions that will enhance productivity in the petroleum sector, but not to incite acrimony and suspicion that have the tendency to erode trust and cause violence.

2027: I will work for the return of President Tinubu – Sheriff declares

By: Celestine Ukah

The former Governor of Borno State and Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Ali Modu Sheriff says he will work assiduously for the return of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as President and the APC in 2027.

Former Governor Sheriff made this declaration Monday, July 28, during a live interview on Channels TV, Politics Today. He also reiterated his membership in the ruling party APC.

The former Borno State Governor reaffirmed that he is not intending to join the ADC coalition and that he’s still strongly rooted in membership with the APC, dispelling any claim or rumor from any mischief makers about leaving the APC.

Sheriff, who also spoke about the state of the nation during the interview, lamented the porous borders in Nigeria, especially with Niger, Chad, and Cameroon, calling on the federal government to tighten security in these areas.

Enyimba to Ideye: Read our Code of Conduct, Not all allowances paid during Season, Ifeanyi Ekweme

By: Sunday Agunbiade (Mr VAR)

Sporting Director, Enyimba Football Club, Ifeanyi Ekwueme has warned former Super Eagles striker, Brown Ideye to stop misleading members of the public against the club and advised him to read contractual agreement and code of conduct on payment of allowances and other sundry payments.

Ekwueme, who was one time Super Eagles forward described Ideye’s allegations as unfounded claiming that there are other sundry allowances that the club do pay its players at the end of season.

It would be recalled that Enyimba FC had earlier issued a strong rebuttal to former Super Eagles striker Brown Ideye’s allegations, and termed it a deliberate attempt to tarnish the club’s reputation. The club expressed disappointment that a former Nigerian international, who was welcomed back home with open arms, has chosen to malign the very system that embraced him.

In a statement released on Friday evening, Enyimba FC defended their treatment of Ideye during his brief tenure at the club. The club highlighted that Ideye received VIP privileges, including a monthly salary of ₦1 million, luxury hotel accommodation costing ₦65,000 per night, air travel to away matches, and personal respect befitting his status as a top-level.

According to former Heartland FC Sporting Director and Tico Sports Wears, he said :” There are some allowances and payments we usually give our players at the end of every season so as not to leave them emty handed after the campaigns. In fact, these are already embedded in their contractual agreement and code of conduct. Said the astute football admistrator .

Enyimba also addressed Ideye’s performance on the field, stating that he scored only five goals across all competitions, and his overall impact fell short of what was anticipated. The club further accused Ideye of being a divisive influence in the dressing room, undermining team cohesion and progress.

Regarding Ideye’s claims about poor player welfare, Enyimba FC refuted these allegations, asserting that he never raised these issues while collecting VIP wages and privileges. The club emphasized their transparent bonus structure under the leadership of Nwankwo Kanu, which includes double win bonuses and personal incentives from management—sometimes as high as ₦1 million. Quoting Ekwueme’s claims he said: ” few bonuses had been paid before the end of season, few league and continental bonuses have also been paid before the end of season.”

Enyimba FC concluded their statement by reaffirming their commitment to professionalism and the growth of Nigerian football. The club expressed regret over the incident but assured fans, stakeholders, and the NPFL family that they remain dedicated to the principles of integrity and gratitude.

Enyimba FC is Nigeria’s most successful football club, having won two African Champions League titles and nine Nigerian championships.
The club is currently managed by Stanley Eguma, with Nwankwo Kanu serving as the chairman.

Enyimba FC’s home ground is the Enyimba International Stadium located in Aba, Abia State.

The club’s nickname, “People’s Elephant,” reflects their status as a symbol of pride for the people of Aba.

Enyimba FC’s commitment to player welfare includes a transparent bonus structure and personal incentives from management.

SWAN Hails Super Falcons’ Historic WAFCON Feat, Bolaji On Para-Badminton Triumph In Cardiff

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has congratulated the Super Falcons for their history-making performance at the just concluded 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) which ensured that they won record 10th title in Rabat, Morocco.

SWAN President Mr. Isaiah Benjamin in a statement via the Association’s Secretary-General, Amb. Ikenna Okonkwo, on Sunday, in Abuja, said the team’s victorious outing especially their comeback win against host Morocco in the final, was a testament of commitment and focus.

President Benjamin who noted that no effort should be spared in rewarding both the players and officials of Super Falcons, expressed optimism that Nigeria’s Sports ecosystem is capable of turning the economic tide of the country if well harnessed.

“On behalf of teeming Sports Writers in Nigeria, I congratulate the Super Falcons for exhibiting resilience in their pursuit and fulfillment in winning the 10th WAFCON title. The outcome of their display shows that as a nation, we can achieve greater heights in any endeavour.

“I’m particularly delighted with the steady growth of Women football in the continent. It goes to show that there’s more ahead. I couldn’t imagine the massive followership that greeted the just concluded WAFCON. The final matchday was spectacular.

“Though the match was played into late night, yet many football and even non-enthusiasts kept awake to catch a glimpse of what their darling team were up to. All that is needed is for government, corporate bodies and well-to-do individuals to channel greater attention to sports by investing in infrastructure and human development,” he said.

Also, the SWAN President has thumbs-up Nigeria’s 2024 Paralympic Games bronze medalist, Eniola Bolaji, who triumphed over all her opponents to clinch gold medal at the 2025 British and Irish Para-Badminton International.

Remarkably, Bolaji at the final of the women’s SL3 category, defeated world No. 1 and Tokyo Paralympic silver medalist, Qonitah Ikhtiar Syakuroh of Indonesia to emerge champion at the Sport Wales National Centre in Cardiff on Saturday.

“Eniola Bolaji has maintained a level of consistency on her sporting career path. All she and other Nigerian athletes (both elite and upcoming ones) need is continuous support,” he said.

**As Chikere Eulogizes Moses Aduko on appointment as Falconets Coach

By: Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye

The Executive Director of Sports Development and Operations, Edo State Sports Commission, Mrs. Sabina Chikere, congratulated former Flying Eagles player, Moses Aduko on his appointment as the Head Coach of Nigeria’s U-20 female national football team, Falconets, by the Nigeria Football Federation, (NFF).

Mrs. Sabina Chikere who was very excited by the appointment of Moses Aduko, made this public in a statement made available to Areanewsng.com describing it as a great news and development.

“I am thrilled for Moses Aduku on his appointment as the Falconets of Nigeria’s coach— this is great news!,” she said.

Mrs. Chikere is very confident that Aduko who currently serves as the head coach of Edo State female football club, Edo Queens is the perfect man to lead the Falconets.

Aduko led Edo Queens to win the 2023 NWFL Premiership and to take fourth place in the Confederation of Africa Football, (CAF) Women’s Champions League.

“I remember how strongly we pushed to bring him into our team back in 2022. Since then, it’s been nothing short of an inspiring journey together.

“This U-20 appointment is a well-deserved recognition of his brilliance. It is the right step up, and just like I believed in him then, I have no doubt he will make a huge impact with the girls,” she emphasized.

“Wishing him all the success in this new role — and may that winning momentum shine on us in the coming season too!,” she added.

Aduku who was an assistant coach of the Nigeria U-20 girls, who got to the quarter-finals at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup finals in Costa Rica in 2022, will start work with a 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifying fixture against Rwanda in September.

The coach with a ‘PhD’ in game plan and a thirst for trophies will resume duty on Sunday July 27, 2025.

DOPF felicitates Delta Assembly on Passage of Community Security Bill, Urges Governor Oborevwori’s Swift Assent

The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) heartily congratulates the leadership and entire members of the Delta State House of Assembly on the successful passage of the Delta State Community Security Corps Agency Bill.

This bold and timely legislative action is a commendable step toward addressing the rising security concerns that have continued to affect lives, livelihoods, and local development across the state.

We recall that DOPF had consistently called for a holistic and community-driven security framework to complement existing security structures in tackling rural banditry, kidnapping, herder-farmer conflicts, and other criminal activities plaguing Delta communities. The passage of this bill is a clear indication that the House of Assembly has not only listened to the yearnings of the people but has also demonstrated legislative responsiveness to the needs of the state.

In a statement signed by the Chairman of Delta Online Publishers Forum, Emmanuel Enebeli, Mnipr and Secretary, Shedrack Onitsha, Mnipr respectively read thus, “As a body of professional media practitioners with deep grassroots engagement, we view the establishment of the Community Security Corps as a pragmatic solution capable of restoring confidence among residents, particularly in rural areas. More importantly, the bill provides a legal framework for the recruitment, training, and deployment of community-based security operatives who are familiar with the terrains and local dynamics of their communities.

“We therefore call on His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, to swiftly give assent to this critical piece of legislation. Prompt signing of the bill into law will set the tone for its immediate implementation, ensuring that communities currently under threat from criminal elements begin to enjoy renewed hope, protection, and stability.

“Furthermore, we urge the Delta State Government to put in place a robust implementation structure backed by adequate funding, transparency, and professional oversight to ensure the success of the new security outfit. We also encourage synergy with conventional security agencies, traditional institutions, and community leaders to strengthen the effectiveness of the Corps across the 25 local government areas.

“Finally, DOPF reiterates that the return of security to our farmlands will significantly improve food production, boost agribusiness, and contribute to food security in Delta State. We commend the Delta State House of Assembly once again for this patriotic move and stand ready to support public sensitization efforts around the new law.

Delta: NUPENG/PENGASSAN suspends FUPRE picketing

Members of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG and Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria,PENGASSAN Warri Zone have suspended the picketing of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, FUPRE, Effurun in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.

This is coming after an elaborate discussion with between the leadership of the Union and the Management of the University. PENGASSAN Chairman in FUPRE, Falodun Francis confirmed the suspension at the end of the meeting. Falodun said they resolved to suspend the picketing because in the interest of the students in other not to disrupt their academic activities.

He said the reason is because the Management have agreed to pay the union members the “Earned Allowance”within the next seven(7)days. According to him,they also agreed not to victimize any member of the Union who partook in the picketing exercise of the institution. On the issue of recognition, Francis said discussions are ongoing and they’ve also promised to work in harmony with members of the union.

Francis appreciated members of the Unions for their doggedness in fighting for their rights during the picketing exercise of FUPRE.

Meanwhile, members of the union were jubilating over their victory at the school’s premises.

Delta Transfers Otor-Udu General Hospital To FG over FMC establishment

Delta State Executive Council (EXCO) has approved the transfer of the General Hospital in Otor-Udu to the Federal Ministry of Health for the establishment of a Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Ovwian in Udu Local Government Area of the state.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, disclosed this while briefing journalists on some of the far-reaching decisions reached in the health sector, during the State EXCO meeting presided over by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

Dr. Onojaeme, while recalling that the Federal Government had approved the establishment of a Federal Medical Centre at Ovwian, disclosed that the Exco ratified Governor Oborevwori’s earlier approval for the transfer of the General Hospital, Otor-Udu to the Federal Government to facilitate establishment of the medical centre.

He noted that the decision of the Federal Government to establish a Federal Medical Centre at Owvian in Udu Local Government Area, was a healthy and commendable development for the people and residents of Udu and environs.

He said: “Sometime back, the Federal Government approved the establishment of a Federal Medical Centre at Ovwian; so, we are giving them the Otor-Udu General Hospital which is to be handed over to the Federal Ministry of Health.

“The establishment of a Federal Medical Centre at Ovwian is a good development because Udu and environs actually need a specialist health centre to complement what we have already given at the Central Hospital, Warri”.

According to him, Exco also approved the procurement and installation of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machines at Asaba Specialist Hospital, Central Hospital Warri, and the Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, in a strategic move to expand the frontiers of healthcare delivery in the state.

“Also Exco graciously approved the procurement of three Magnetic Resonance lmaging scan machines. These machines are non-evasive machines that answer a lot of clinical questions ranging from excellent prostrate imaging, degenerating spine injuries, brain and other soft tissue imaging.

“Before now, we don’t have a functioning MRI scan machine in the state. And the feature of this one that we are purchasing is a 1.5 Tesla MRI scan machine that is Helium- free.

“The reason the one we have before now did not stand the test of time is because it is Helium -dependent and the money to refill helium is almost the amount to purchase a new one.

“So, this one is good for the state and we went for product specific siemen German machine. It is good, it is going to last the state and it came with a two years maintenance warranty. So, it is a good one for the state,” the Commissioner said.

Prior to the procurement of the MRI scan machines, he said, a lot of patients in the state were being referred to UBTH and LUTH, stressing that with the purchase of MRI machines, some of all the high-end imaging would be done in the state.

Picketing: FUPRE Management allegedly refuses to pay Union members Allowances

Investigation has revealed that the Management of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, FUPRE, has refused to pay the Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) and Earned Allowance (EA) to staff of the institution who are under the umbrella bodies of the NUPENG and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), Warri Zone. This is coming as the unions are picketing the institution for the second day.

The Management also refused to pay about six million naira (6 million) for the tankers used in picketing the school’s gate.

While the meeting lasted, members of NUPENG staged a walkout, leaving only members of PENGASSAN after the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ezekiel O. Agbalagba, who first agreed to pay the said allowances to the oil workers at a meeting held on Wednesday, suddenly decided he is not paying them on the grounds that it’s only for academic staff.

At the meeting yesterday, they also refused to legalize the operations and payment of members of the union on the grounds that it’s the Industrial Court that will decide since the matter is in court.

This is coming after a meeting between the University’s Management and the unions after they picketed the institution yesterday morning.

It was also learned that another meeting between the FUPRE Management and the unions is also slated to hold today.

A member of the union who craved anonymity said the union gave the Management an ultimatum to pay before seven days; otherwise, they will escalate the matter. The union member added that Management assured them that they might pay before that seven-day ultimatum.

According to him, Management also said they cannot legalize/regularize our matter because the matter is in court. “So, we are watching and waiting to see the outcome.”

The unions, in a letter earlier sent to the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, alleged that the Management, led by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ezekiel O. Agbalagba, refused to disburse their members’ Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) and Earned Allowance (EA), which the Federal Government disbursed to Federal Tertiary Institutions (precisely May 28, 2025).

In the letter, the union alleged that your Management decided to apply “Divide and Rule” to disburse the said EAA and EA for Federal Tertiary Institutions, in contrary to Section 40 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and ILO Conventions 87 and 98.”