News
Tanker drivers decry bad roads, exclusion from CNG scheme
The Petroleum Tanker Drivers Branch of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers has called on the Federal Government to ensure urgent commencement of repairs on federal highways and address their exclusion from the ongoing Compressed Natural Gas scheme.
In a communiqué issued at the conclusion of their quarterly National Executive Committee meeting in Benin City, Edo State, the union expressed dissatisfaction over the delay in road projects despite substantial budgetary allocations and criticised the lack of inclusion in the CNG initiative.
Signed by the National Chairman, Augustine Egbon, and National Secretary, Oluchi Chinagorom, the communiqué stated: “We commend the Federal Government for prioritizing the repair of federal highways to make them safer and reduce the burden on transporters. However, we urge immediate action to ensure contractors are mobilised before the peak of the rainy season.”
The union highlighted significant allocations made under the current administration, including N42.4bn approved in June for road variations and N740bn approved in October for the Berger stretch of the Abuja-Kano route.
Additionally, they referenced N621.2bn approved in 2021 under the Road Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme.
“Having shown a commitment to fixing roads, unlike its predecessor, we urge the Federal Government to walk its talk. Unnecessary delays could lead to complications during the rainy season. A stitch in time saves nine,” the communiqué emphasised.
The PTD-NUPENG listed critical federal roads needing immediate attention, such as the Shagamu-Benin road, Makurdi-Katsina-Ala road, Kachako-Dambazua road in Kano, Yola-Hong-Mubi road in Adamawa, Okene-Auchi-Benin road, Lanai-Agai-Bida road, and the East-West road spanning Benin-Warri to Port Harcourt.
The union also decried its exclusion from the CNG initiative aimed at providing affordable fuel options.
“Tanker drivers, as key players in the downstream oil and gas sector, have been excluded from the CNG scheme. CNG kits are not just for smaller vehicles; tankers also require cheaper fuel alternatives to operate efficiently,” they argued.
The communiqué concluded with a plea to the Federal Government to fulfill its commitments to road rehabilitation and integrate tanker drivers into the CNG disbursement scheme, emphasizing the sector’s critical role in the nation’s petroleum product distribution chain.
Bolaji Adedotun Olanrewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji, a Nigerian gospel singer, is died.
His family confirmed the unfortunate news in an official statement on Saturday.
Reports indicated that Big Bolaji slumped and died at the age of 50 at an event last night during a concert.
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bolaji Olarewaju, affectionately known as ‘Big B,’ a cherished father, husband, brother, and an esteemed figure in both the church community, an ordained Pastor in the RCCG and a giant in the music industry and our community. Bolaji left us on Easter Saturday, 19th April 2025, after a brief illness,” the statement read.
“His departure leaves a void in our hearts that can not be filled.
“Bolaji’s life was a testament to his passion for music, his unwavering faith, and his dedication to uplifting those around him. His legacy is not only in the melodies he created but in the lives he touched and the unquantifiable joy he spread.”
They added, “We take solace in knowing that his absence with us is his presence with the Lord, and the indelible mark he left on all who had the privilege of knowing him will not be erased.
“As we navigate through this time of loss, we kindly request privacy to mourn as a family. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received and ask that you continue to keep us in your prayers.”
The family also noted that funeral arrangements would be communicated at a later date.
“Details regarding the obsequies will be shared in due course as we come together to celebrate Bolaji’s remarkable life and legacy.
“Thank you for respecting our wishes during this incredibly difficult time.
“With gratitude,
“The Family of Bolaji Olarewaju,” the statement added.
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s 2023 Vice Presidential candidate, has urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider seeking re-election in 2027, claiming it would be politically unwise.
Speaking on News program, Baba-Ahmed said Tinubu should “throw in the towel” if he is truly the savvy politician many believe him to be. He argued that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has lost credibility, predicting their defeat in the next election.
Mocking Tinubu’s political maneuvers, Baba-Ahmed recounted how he backed various presidential candidates since 2007—culminating, in his words, in an “electoral heist” in 2023.
“If he’s that smart, it’s clear he’s going to lose in 2027,” he said, while suggesting that at least two candidates could defeat the president in the next poll.
He added that Tinubu, like former President Buhari, would fail to deliver on campaign promises. “Buhari didn’t develop Nigeria, didn’t provide security, didn’t fight corruption. Neither will Tinubu,” he asserted.
Baba-Ahmed expressed confidence that Nigerians will rise to reject bad leadership in 2027, uniting to bring genuine democracy to the country.
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