IMO BREAKING NEWS BLOG

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Joint Task Force North East, have recorded another major success in the ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations in Borno State, rescuing 86 kidnap victims and arresting 29 others over the supply of logistics to the criminals. The Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, confirmed this in a statement.

Uba said troops of the 135 Special Forces Battalion, under Sector 2 OPHK, on 9 November 2025, encountered Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists at Dutse Kura after discovering that terrorists were abducting civilians and vehicles along the Buratai–Kamuya Road. “The troops thwarted the attack, pursued the terrorists towards Mangari, and overpowered them in a follow-up encounter near a camp, forcing the insurgents to flee in disarray. A search of the area led to the discovery of 11 makeshift terrorist structures and the rescue of 86 kidnapped victims, comprising men, women, and children,” he said in a statement.

Some of the items recovered from the criminals include one AK-47 rifle, five magazines with 73 rounds, four PKT ammunition belts, five civilian vehicles, five motorcycles, eight bicycles, and two logistics tricycles. The terrorists’ camp was destroyed in situ after clearance operations. Meanwhile, troops deployed at Mangada arrested 29 terrorist logistics suppliers en route to Chilaria with several items. The troops recovered items such as two pickup vans and a tricycle loaded with Premium Motor Spirit, approximately 1,000 litres of petrol in jerricans, four gallons of engine oil, two new gun truck tyres, a substantial cache of medical supplies, and large quantities of foodstuffs and provisions from them.

“All operations were conducted successfully with no casualties on the part of our troops. The Military High Command commended the gallantry and professionalism of the troops while charging Operation HADIN KAI to sustain operations to deny terrorists freedom of action across the North East theatre,” the statement read. 

The US Congress is debating a bill to sanction 12 northern Nigerian governors, judges, and traditional rulers accused of enabling Christian persecution through blasphemy laws.

Spearheaded by Senator Ted Cruz and backed by Donald Trump, the bill seeks visa bans and asset freezes under the Global Magnitsky Act.

Nigeria’s government dismissed the claims, while CAN backed the probe and MURIC warned against bias. Analysts say the move could strain US–Nigeria relations.

In Igbo culture, the phrase Ezigbo Mmadụ is not used lightly. It describes a person whose character, compassion, and deeds radiate goodness, truth, and integrity. Such a person embodies kindness, fairness, and a sense of responsibility toward others. In our time, one figure who truly reflects this ideal is Ugwumba Uche Nwosu. His life, leadership, and contributions to humanity have made him an outstanding representation of what it means to be a genuine and selfless human being.

Ugwumba Uche Nwosu’s journey is one deeply rooted in service and humility. From his early years, he showed signs of a man destined to uplift others rather than pursue only personal ambitions. His leadership is not anchored on the usual struggles for power or influence but on a sincere desire to make society better. In every capacity he has served, Ugwumba has left behind testimonies of integrity and selfless contribution. His open-heartedness toward both the mighty and the lowly reflects the Igbo adage that “a good man is not known by his wealth but by his deeds.”

One of the hallmarks of Ugwumba’s life is his philanthropy. Beyond politics or social status, he has consistently demonstrated a heart for giving and sharing. He has sponsored educational programs, empowered youths with entrepreneurial support, and provided relief for widows and the less privileged. For him, true wealth lies not in accumulation but in distribution, ensuring that others rise along with him. Such gestures have earned him not only respect but also deep affection from communities across Imo State and beyond.

Leadership in today’s society often comes with challenges of trust, but Ugwumba Uche Nwosu has proven that good leaders can still exist. His style of leadership is one that combines vision with compassion. He believes that governance should not be about titles or positions but about tangible impacts in the lives of people. Those who have encountered him describe him as approachable, empathetic, and genuinely interested in their welfare. This rare trait sets him apart as a model of the true meaning of ezigbo mmadụ.

Furthermore, Ugwumba is a man of peace. He is not known for bitterness, division, or unnecessary conflicts. Rather, he uses his influence to bridge divides, reconcile differences, and foster unity wherever he finds himself. This is in line with Igbo values that celebrate individuals who preserve harmony within the community. To be an ezigbo mmadụ is to be a peacemaker, and Ugwumba has consistently lived up to this calling.

Ugwumba Uche Nwosu is not just a man of influence; he is an embodiment of ezigbo mmadụ. His kindness, philanthropy, humility, and peace-loving nature make him a shining example of the Igbo ideal of a good man. In a society where many pursue self-interest, Ugwumba reminds us that greatness lies in selflessness, and true honor comes from service to humanity.

Wilson Amaefule is a Public Affairs Analyst and writes from Umuhu-Okabia in Orsu Local Government Area. 

Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, has ordered the arrest of security operatives involved in the shooting near Emeka Offor Plaza, Onitsha Main Market. At least one person died after task force operatives opened fire in a market in Anambra state on Tuesday.

Shortly after the incident, Soludo directed that the suspects be arrested and handed over to the police for prosecution, and that the medical needs of those who sustained injuries be taken care of. This was disclosed in a statement by the state Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor.

Mefor said the Anambra State Government was aware of the disturbance that occurred at the market. “We appreciate the swift intervention of the Police, who have restored calm and order to the area. An investigation into the incident has commenced, and the government will ensure that all necessary measures are taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future,” he stated. “Regrettably, one of the victims, Miss Chinwe Igwe, was confirmed dead on arrival. Her body has been deposited at the hospital morgue for autopsy and preservation. The other victims are currently receiving treatment and are responding positively.

“Meanwhile, Mr Governor has directed that the suspects be arrested and handed over to the police for prosecution, and for the medical needs of those who sustained injuries to be taken care of.

“Normalcy has since been restored in the area by the Police, while patrols and monitoring continue by law enforcement agents to ensure sustained peace.”

The Operation Clean And Healthy Anambra Brigade, otherwise known as “OCHA Brigade”, is a special enforcement unit created to enforce environmental and sanitation regulations in the state.

Thomas Tuchel spoke like a man who knew the best night of his England reign was coming from the moment he landed in Belgrade. The German heard questions about his methods after the dire World Cup qualifier win against Andorra on Saturday - a fourth successive competitive victory, but one that ended with thousands of supporters at Villa Park voting with their feet long before the end.

"I see what I see. I feel what I feel. I am convinced we will improve, then get better and better," said Tuchel before England's qualifier against Serbia. He echoed that message as he basked in the elation of Tuesday night's 5-0 triumph. Tuchel's side delivered on that promise - and then some - with a masterclass that swept Serbia aside in their own Belgrade fortress, the predicted hostile crowd silenced from virtually the first whistle by a performance of total domination.

And, on what was the perfect night for Tuchel, he not only got the emphatic victory that puts England only five points away from World Cup qualification with three games left, he left Belgrade with the most pleasant of selection headaches to resolve. England finally showed attacking flair, doing it without Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham and Arsenal's Bukayo Saka - regarded as certain starters by most observers. Chelsea forward Cole Palmer was also missing, as was Phil Foden, hoping to rebuild his international career through his Manchester City performances.

In their absence, Noni Madueke excelled with a goal and a fine individual display. He has now made five goal contributions in nine England appearances. Elliott Anderson built on the good impression he made on his debut against Andorra, while Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers was an increasing influence, looking at home at this elite level. Bellingham is always regarded the natural for England's number 10 position, but Rogers staked his claim and showed Tuchel he has alternatives should he want to utilise them. 

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) on Wednesday met with officials of domestic airline operators in the country. The meeting held in Abuja followed concerns raised about flight disruptions, the attitude of some airline staff, among other issues.

According to sources in the Authority, the purpose of the engagement was to speak to regulatory issues around unruly passenger behaviour and passenger handling protocols, unresolved refund or compensation issues, as well as the enforcement of phone switch-off instructions, protection for cabin crew, and improved travel experience for passengers.

Core TV News reports that the engagement stems from the increasing concerns from some recent confrontations between air customers, crew members, and airline operators.

NCAA stated that there has been an increase in the number of complaints from customers. The regulator urged operators to stick to its regulations in their operations. 

The Federal Government has published the full list of 26 trade areas approved under its revised technical-education curriculum. A statement signed on Wednesday by the Federal Ministry of Education, the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, Bon Folasade, said the revised curriculum will convert all Federal Science and Technical Colleges to Federal Technical Colleges from the 2025/2026 academic year.

Announced by Education Minister Dr. Maruf Alausa and Minister of State Professor Suwaiba Sa’id Ahmad, the overhaul requires each college to offer a minimum of six and a maximum of ten trade courses. Students are expected to offer between nine and ten subjects (one core trade, five to six general subjects, two to three trade-related subjects, and one elective).

The ministry said the streamlining and modernisation of these trades responds to current industry demand across construction, energy, agriculture, automotive, creative media, and digital services sectors.

“The reform is designed to reduce overload, build strong trade competencies, align with global standards, and prepare young Nigerians for the jobs of the future,” the statement read. The reform also introduces Citizenship and Heritage Studies alongside core science and language subjects.

Below is the full list of the 26 approved trades:

1. Brick laying, block laying and concreting

2. Woodwork, carpentry and joinery

3. Plumbing and pipe fitting

4. Computer hardware & GSM repair and maintenance

5. Refrigeration & air-conditioning works

6. Mechanised agriculture (mechanisation / smart agriculture)

7. Autobody works

8. Catering craft practice

9. Solar PV installation and maintenance

10. Fashion design and garment making

11. Livestock farming/animal husbandry

12. Fish farming (aquaculture)

13. Motorcycle & tricycle repairs

14. Painting, decoration and finishes (interior design)

15. Welding & fabrication

16. Auto-electrical wiring

17. Automobile mechanics

18. Beauty therapy & cosmetology

19. Creative media (digital media production/operations)

20. Electronic systems maintenance craft

21. Furniture making & upholstery

22. Networking & system security (including satellite TV antenna installation and maintenance)

23. Social media content creation and management

24. Tiling & cladding (tiling and decorative stonework / floor-cover installation)

25. Automobile CNG conversion and maintenance

26. Leather works 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially recognised the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by a former senate president, David Mark. The confirmation which was displayed on the website of INEC on Wednesday.

The recognition came after an internal restructuring that resulted in the emergence of national officers to reposition the party further ahead of the 2027 general elections. Aside from Mark, who was appointed as the interim chairman, INEC listed a former Osun governor, Rauf Aregbesola, as National Secretary. Other principal officers now officially recognised by the electoral body are a former Edo governor, Oserheimen Osunbor, as National Legal Adviser; Ibrahim Mani as National Treasurer, and Akibu Dalhatu as National Financial Secretary.

The opposition coalition officially adopted the ADC as it political platform on July 2, 2025, with the aim of contesting the presidential and other elections in 2027. The coalition said it was set to rescue the country from collapse and rebuild its democracy. “Let it be known to all that this coalition of national political opposition groups goes beyond gaining political power. It is a concerted effort to rebuild the crumbling pillars of Nigeria’s democracy.

“The mission is clear: Rescue Nigeria. Rebuild Nigeria. Return power to the people,” said Mark. The former leader of the senate alleged that the Federal Government led by the All Progressives Congress (APC) had hijacked all democratic institutions, and sent the country on a “creeping descent into total civilian dictatorship” in the last two years. Mark also said the current government was “consumed with politicking” and had abandoned governance.

“The blatant destabilisation and infiltration of all major opposition political parties is aimed at achieving only one objective: to enhance total state capture and leave Nigerians with no alternative or options in 2027. This coalition is to prevent our country’s descent into a one-party sadded. he added. 

Former Leicester striker Jamie Vardy said "age is just a number" as he opens a new chapter of his career with Italian side Cremonese. The 38-year-old, who is regarded among Leicester's greatest players, left the club at the end of last season, calling time on a 13-year spell at the club where he scored 200 goals in 500 appearances.

He notched 24 of those in their Premier League title-winning 2015-16 season. Vardy signed for newly-promoted Serie A side Cremonese on a free transfer earlier this month and he could make his debut for the northern Italian side on Monday, against Verona. Asked if he, and other veterans such as Kevin de Bruyne and Luka Modric who have also moved to Serie A this summer, are still motivated to perform at the highest level, he replied: "You must be one of the doubters. You're one that I'll have to prove wrong.

"For me age is just a number. As long as my legs are doing exactly what they used to and still feel as fresh as they do then I will carry on. "At the moment there are no signs of them slowing down so I'll keep going and I will be giving my all for this club. "I will learn Italian, but [for now] it is not a problem: football has its own language, with the ball," he said. Cremonese have enjoyed an impressive start to the season, opening their campaign with a surprise 2-1 win over AC Milan before beating Sassuolo 3-2.

"The main task is making sure we stay in the league, and that's how it was when I was at Leicester," Vardy said. "It was never any, 'we are going to go for this', it was always, 'we need to stay in the league', that's the main thing. So all you do, you go out, you take each game one-by-one, give your all, what will be will be." 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has faulted what it described as “premature” campaigns by political parties and candidates in the lead up to the 2027 elections. INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, who spoke at a One-Day Stakeholders’ Roundtable on Premature Political Campaigns organized by The Electoral Institute (TEI) at its headquarters in Abuja, highlighted the commission’s major challenge in tackling the issue: a gap in the electoral legal framework.

Citing Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which stipulates the 150-day campaign period. Yakubu revealed that “there is no sanction whatsoever concerning breaches for campaigns earlier than 150 days to an election. Here lies the challenge for the Commission.” The INEC chief said the action, “undermine the Commission’s ability to track campaign finance limits as politicians, prospective candidates, and third-party agents expend large amounts of money that cannot be effectively monitored.”

In his keynote address at the event, a former INEC chairman, Attahiru Jega described premature campaigns as a “serious threat to elections” that “undermine the integrity of the entire electoral process.” Jega was particularly critical of the use of third-party groups and incumbent officials. The former INEC chief said, “premature election campaigns are actually being perpetrated by premature democrats,” and proposed that “all candidates and their parties, and especially incumbent office holders and their political parties, should be vicariously held responsible and penalized for premature campaigns for them by third parties.”

The roundtable featured presentations from the Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, the Inspector General of Police, and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), alongside contributions from the IPAC Chairman. Meanwhile, INEC has recognised the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by a former senate president, David Mark.

The development was displayed on the INEC website which indicated Mark as the party’s chairman. The recognition came after an internal restructuring that resulted in the emergence of national officers to reposition the party further ahead of the 2027 general elections. 

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned two senior commanders of Ansaru, a proscribed terrorist organisation. The suspects are Mahmud Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a Abbas/Mukhtar, and his deputy, Mahmud Al-Nigeri, also called Malam Mamuda.

The DSS filed a 32-count charge against them at the Federal High Court in Abuja. The suspects allegedly attacked the Nigerian Army’s Wawa Cantonment in Kainji, Niger State, in 2022, causing mass casualties.

They also allegedly received training in weapons handling, war tactics, and improvised explosive device (IED) fabrication from terrorist camps. The suspects are also accused of receiving training in war tactics from a terrorist organisation in Mali.

Security officials allege that Mamuda trained in Libya between 2013 and 2015 under foreign jihadist instructors. Justice Emeka Nwite is presiding over the arraignment of the suspects at the Federal High Court in Abuja. 

The city of Asaba came alive on Friday as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, officially declared open the 9th National Youth Games, with athletes from 33 states and the FCT Abuja set for ten days of thrilling competition, Jazzy News can exclusively report.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sports as a tool for unity, empowerment, and global competitiveness, President Tinubu said the Games remain a breeding ground for future champions.

“From these young athletes, future national and international stars will emerge. Our government is committed to nurturing them with the right structures, facilities, and policies. Sports is not just recreation; it is a unifying force and a driver of national pride,” the President said.

The opening ceremony was a spectacle of color and culture, with a vibrant parade of athletes lighting up the Stephen Keshi Stadium. Nigerian music star Victor AD set the crowd buzzing with an electrifying performance that got fans on their feet.

Welcoming the participants, Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Speaker of the State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, hailed the Games as a symbol of unity through healthy rivalry.

“The National Youth Games have produced stars now flying Nigeria’s flag globally. Delta is proud to host again, and we are ready to give athletes a safe, competitive, and memorable experience,” he said.

Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, urged the athletes to embrace fair play and give their best.

“This is where greatness begins. Compete with heart because you carry the hope of your states and the pride of Nigeria,” he charged, vowing that no raw talent will be left undiscovered.

The ceremony also featured the traditional athletes’ and officials’ oath-taking, led by Obiagu Faith and Comrade Obioha George respectively.

Over the next ten days, 37 sports will be contested as Delta—the defending champion of all eight previous editions—hunts for a record ninth straight title.

Asaba is now set for a festival of youthful energy, raw talent, and national pride, with the National Youth Games once again proving that sports is Nigeria’s greatest unifier.

The Orlu Renaissance Movement, a rising socio-political platform committed to advocating for good governance, accountability, and community development, has announced the appointment of Comr. Wilson Amaefule as its new Coordinator.

Mr. Wilson, a respected political commentator from Umuhu-Okabia in Orsu Local Government Area, brings to this role years of consistent engagement in political discourse and advocacy for policies that uplift the lives of ordinary people. Known for his courage in speaking truth to power, he has carved a reputation as a voice of reason and conscience within the Orlu zone and beyond.

The Orlu Renaissance Movement, comprising dedicated sons and daughters of Orlu Zone was founded to unite progressive minds towards a common vision of Integrity, Justice, and Development. With Comr. Wilson at the helm, the movement aims to deepen civic awareness, encourage citizens’ participation in governance, and hold leaders accountable to their promises.

In his acceptance speech, Comr. Wilson Amaefule emphasized that leadership is about service, sacrifice, and sincerity. He pledged to steer the Orlu Renaissance Movement as a platform that amplifies the people’s voices and ensures that the collective interests of the zone remain the priority.

“The era of silence is over,” Comr. Wilson declared. “We must rise above divisive politics and chart a course for good governance, unity, and prosperity in Orlu land. Our people deserve better, and the Orlu Renaissance Movement will work tirelessly to demand and achieve it.”

The announcement has been met with excitement among Stakeholders, Youths, and Community Leaders, who see Wilson’s emergence as a turning point for renewed advocacy and genuine leadership in the region.

From 2026, Danish high school students will be allowed to use AI tools to prepare for the oral component of their English exams, the education ministry announced. 

The pilot scheme aims to balance digital learning with academic standards, while parts of the written exam will remain handwritten to curb overreliance on technology. 

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has threatened a nationwide strike if the Federal Government fails to meet its demands after a 21-day ultimatum.

Zonal Coordinator, Innocent Simji, said the move followed unresolved issues, including unpaid salary arrears, non-release of allowances, stalled agreement renegotiations, poor infrastructure funding, and continued discrimination against HND holders.

He warned that members across public polytechnics and monotechnics would withdraw services if the government fails to act. 

Police in Akwa Ibom have arrested a self-acclaimed doctor, Sunday Okon Akpan, after a 35-year-old woman, Blessing Sunday Etim, died during an abortion at his clinic in Ibesikpo Asutan LGA.

Police said Akpan, a community health worker with no medical licence, attempted to dump the corpse in the victim’s room to cover up the crime before fleeing. He was later arrested, and the clinic has been shut down.

The body has been deposited for autopsy as investigations continue. 

INEC says over 505,906 Nigerians completed online pre-registration for the Continuous Voter Registration within five days of its resumption. Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, represented by National Commissioner May Agbamuche-Mbu, described the turnout as proof of citizens’ commitment to democracy.

The physical phase begins August 25 across 811 centres nationwide, where biometrics will be captured. INEC also launched sensitisation campaigns urging eligible citizens, especially youths and first-time voters, to register and secure their PVCs. 

The National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) and several upstream gas suppliers have signed long-term Gas Supply Agreements (GSAs) with the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) for the delivery of 1.29 billion standard cubic feet per day (bscf/d) of Feedgas.

The 20-year agreements, with extension options, were signed at the NNPC Towers in Abuja on Friday by the NLNG and Amni International Petroleum Development Company Limited; Sunlink Energies and Resources Limited; First Exploration & Petroleum Development Company Limited; SNEPCo; NNPC Gas Marketing Limited; NNPC E&P Limited; Shell Nigeria Gas Solutions Limited; Oando Group; and Aradel Holdings.

The agreements, aimed at bridging the prolonged shortfall in upstream gas availability, mark a major boost for Nigeria’s energy transition agenda and the Federal Government’s gas reforms aimed at strengthening the nation’s economic prosperity and energy security. Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Ltd., Engr. Bashir Ojulari commended NLNG’s shareholders and the Federal Government for their long-term commitment to value delivery despite the challenges faced over the years.

He described the agreements as a giant step towards value creation and sustainable gas supply. “These GSAs have opened up opportunities for the growth of our industry, both for local and international development. They’re hinged on collaboration, synergies and opportunities. We need to leverage economies of scale, share risks and opportunities for us to attain Mr. President’s Decade of Gas vision,” he said.

Ojulari lauded the enabling environment and private sector support fostered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “It is important to commend the President’s tremendous effort that has enabled the business through the issuance of Executive Orders targeted at gas developments and ease of doing business,” he added. The GCEO reaffirmed NNPC Ltd.’s readiness to accelerate the realisation of the Presidential Executive Orders for the industry, pledging to work with partners to unlock opportunities for collective prosperity, in line with the national gas development targets for incremental production. 

After Chelsea's star man Cole Palmer was ruled out in the warm-up of the Premier League encounter at West Ham, teenage sensation Estevao Willian stepped up to show why Blues fans have been so excited about his arrival.

The 18-year-old replaced England international Palmer for his first Premier League start, but gave the ball away with a flick for Lucas Paqueta's stunning sixth-minute opener for the hosts. Yet that didn't faze the Brazilian forward as he proved why Chelsea were willing to pay £29m to bring him to Stamford Bridge, most notably with his first-half assist for Enzo Fernandez as the Fifa Club World Cup winners eventually cruised to a 5-1 victory.

That smart run and pull-back for Fernandez's close-range finish made Estevao, at the age of 18 years and 120 days, the youngest Chelsea player to assist a goal in the Premier League. "He needs to adapt, he needs to make many mistakes to understand how the Premier League is different to Brazil," Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca told BBC Sport.

"We conceded after he did the flick. He needs to understand, but he is a fantastic player." 

The Federal Government is currently discussing a loan funding of $238 million from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to expand Nigeria’s national electricity grid network, especially the transmission segment of the power value chain. This was part of the outcome of deliberations at the just-concluded Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in Yokohama, Japan, where the Nigerian delegation was led by President Bola Tinubu, and attended by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and others.

The national delegation held high-level engagements with Japanese stakeholders, including Toshiba, Hitachi, Japan’s Transmission & Distribution Corporation, and Energy Exchange corporations, focusing on transmission infrastructure, operational efficiency, and strategies to reduce system losses. The proposed loan was built on the recent Federal Executive Council (FEC) approvals for counterpart funding of ₦19 billion to catalyse a loan funding of $238 million from the JICA.

The loan funding will support the expansion of the national grid with the addition of 102.95km of new 330kV double circuit (DC) line, 104.59km of new 132kV double circuit (DC) line, four 330/132/33kV substations, two132/33kv substations, two 330kV line bays extension, two 132kV line bays extension, and one 132kV Substation. The Minister also announced that Nigeria is advancing a $190 million renewable energy loan facility supported by the JICA, designed to scale distributed renewable energy solutions across underserved communities. This builds on the recently launched $750 million World Bank Distributed Access through Renewable Energy Scale-up (DARES) programme under the Mission 300 Compact, which aims to bring clean and reliable electricity to more than 17 million Nigerians.

In parallel, three substations funded by JICA through a $32 million grant are set for commissioning in Apo (FCT), Keffi (Nasarawa State), and Apapa (Lagos State). The projects will directly strengthen supply reliability to households, businesses, and industrial clusters, including critical facilities such as the Lagos Port and surrounding industrial areas. In addition, through the partnership with JICA, Adelabu said the National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN) has commissioned a state-of-the-art training equipment in Abuja to strengthen the skills of distribution engineers and tackle network losses.

The facility is designed to deepen local expertise and promote long-term sustainability in sector operations through capacity development, which remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s power sector strategy.