By Francesca Hangeior

THE Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, has concluded plans to commence the lifting of petroleum products from Port Harcourt Refinery.

The lifting, which will commence today, Tuesday, November 26, 2024, follows the commencement of operations after many months of rehabilitation.

In a message posted at its X (Twitter) handle, the company, stated: “NNPC Ltd delivers Port Harcourt Refinery, as the plant begins truckout of products today, Tuesday 26th November 2024 at 1.43 pm.”

Also, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, Olufemi Sonoye, who confirmed the development, said: “Today marks a monumental achievement for Nigeria as the Port Harcourt Refinery officially commences crude oil processing. This groundbreaking milestone signifies a new era of energy independence and economic growth for our nation.”

Recently, the Group Chief Executive Officer, NNPCL, Mele Kyari, said: “We are aware of our nation’s challenges in fuel supply. But we are not here to give excuses.

“We are focused on delivering this rehabilitation project, our two other refineries, and all other investments towards revamping the nation’s refining capacity. We are hopeful that in 2024, this country will be a net exporter of petroleum products.”
“Will the price of petrol drop?’ Netizens react as Port Harcourt Refinery begins operation

By Francesca Hangeior

Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz told the UN’s Lebanon envoy on Tuesday that any breach of a ceasefire deal that the security cabinet is set to vote on would result in Israel acting “forcefully”.

“If you do not act, we will do it, forcefully,” Katz told envoy Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert when meeting her in Tel Aviv, adding Israel would have “zero tolerance” when defending its security interests in the future, according to a statement from his office.

“Any house rebuilt in south Lebanon and used as a terrorist base will be destroyed, any rearming or terrorist organisation will be attacked, any attempt at transferring arms will be foiled, and any threat against our forces or our citizens will be immediately eliminated,” said Katz in the statement.

The statement added that the previous situation in which Hezbollah had been able to build up military capacity in southern Lebanon despite the presence of the UN’s Lebanon force there, UNIFIL, would not be tolerated.

Israel’s security cabinet is due to meet on Tuesday to vote on the proposed ceasefire in its war with Hezbollah in Lebanon, an official said, while the White House voiced optimism that a deal was close.

The United States, European Union and United Nations have pushed for a halt to the long-running hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, which escalated into full-scale war in late September.

By Francesca Hangeior

Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, has re-emphasised the interest of the state government to safeguard women and girl-child against all forms of violence and abuse.

Adeleye canvassed for increased reportage on Gender-Based Violence cases, improving responses, and growing solidarity of men and women championing the cause, to ensure no woman or girl is left behind

The commissioner, on Tuesday, gave the assurance in a statement issued to mark the commencement of the annual 16 days of activity against Gender-Based Violence with the theme; “No Excuse: Unite to End Violence Against Women”.

Adeleye said, “Over the past years, the sensitisation campaigns have reached unprecedented levels, driving meaningful conversations and changing attitudes across communities.

“And through collaboration, persistent advocacy, awareness, and expanded access to support systems, as well as resources for survivors, the state has been able to make remarkable achievements”.

She noted that the victories recorded have further inspired the ministry’s determination to strengthen policies and implement impactful measures to address all forms of violence against women.

The commissioner stated that the essence of this year’s theme was to reflect and redouble efforts in eliminating GBV and ensure every woman and girl lives with dignity, respect, and the freedom they deserve.

She has therefore called on relevant stakeholders and every individual to unite with the state government in building a safe society for all, continue to break the silence, support survivors, and challenge harmful beliefs and practices that perpetuate violence.