Top Headlines: Latest Nigerian News Roundup – December 13, 2023
Here is an overview of the top 15 news stories currently making headlines in Nigeria. Let us delve into the latest developments.
Exposure of Illegal Mining and Terrorism Funding
During the 2024 budget defence at the House of Representatives Committee on Solid Minerals, the Minister of Solid Minerals, Mr Dele Alake, leveled serious accusations against influential individuals involved in illegal mining, linking them to the financing of banditry and terrorism in Nigeria.
Governor Akeredolu’s Medical Leave
Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, is poised to take another medical leave, marking his fourth absence for medical reasons since assuming office in 2017. He will be delegating his responsibilities to the deputy governor during his absence.
Challenges of Transitioning from Fossil Fuels
President Bola Tinubu underscored the challenges associated with transitioning from fossil fuels due to their significant role in the nation’s economy. He emphasized the necessity for collaboration and a collective approach to address climate change and transition towards a new green economy.
Statement by INEC Chairman
Prof Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), voiced the obstacles encountered by the Commission due to the relentless efforts of politicians to secure victory in elections at any cost.
Budget for the Aviation Sector
The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development is slated to receive a budget allocation of N63 billion, while the previous year’s performance rate of the ministry’s budget stood at 40%.
Senate’s Concerns Regarding Excessive Spending
The Senate engaged in a heated debate with the Minister of Trade, Industry and Investment, Doris Nkiruka-Anite, over the Ministry’s proposal to spend N1 billion on a trip to Geneva, expressing apprehension over the excessive allocation.
Compensation for Flight Delays/Cancellations
The Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, unveiled plans to enforce regulations mandating airlines to compensate passengers for delayed or cancelled flights, commencing in January 2024.
Confirmation of NPC Nominees
President Bola Tinubu has submitted the nomination of 19 National Population Commission (NPC) Commissioners to the Senate for confirmation.
Review of the Petroleum Industry Act
The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources, Hon. Alhassan Ado-Doguwa, emphasized the need for continuous evaluation and refinement of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to meet both global and local requirements.
Challenges in the Power Sector
Mr Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, highlighted the poor state of Nigeria’s power sector, revealing that 60% of Nigerians lack access to electricity.
Legal Restraint in Rivers State
A High Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State has issued a restraining order against legislative activities within the Rivers State House of Assembly, prohibiting specific individuals from performing their duties within the complex.
Upliftment of Nigeria’s Transport Sector
Vice President, Kashim Shettima, unveiled a comprehensive plan for reforming Nigeria’s transport sector, presenting a vision for substantial progress in the industry.
Calls for Probe in Kaduna Drone Strike
Peter Obi, the Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, visited victims of the recent accidental military airstrike in Kaduna and called for a thorough investigation into the incident.
Governor Akeredolu’s Medical Trip
Following his return from medical treatment, Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, is preparing for another medical vacation in Germany, citing the need for further medical attention.
These events provide a summary of the most recent developments in Nigeria, with implications across various sectors. We encourage you to stay tuned for more updates on these evolving stories.
