Connect with us

News

Reps probe abandoned $38.7m NNPC-NAOC power project

Published

on

The House of Representatives has unveiled plans to investigate the abandoned $38.7 million Phase 2 of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation – Nigerian Agip Oil Company joint venture Okpai independence power plant project.

The resolution was passed sequel to the adoption of a motion sponsored by a lawmaker, Nnamdi Ezechi, who called for the intervention of federal lawmakers.

In his lead debate, Ezechi observed that the Okpai Independent Power Plant project, a joint venture between NAOC and the Federal Government, received approval from the National Electricity Regulatory Commission for the construction of Phase 2.

Ezechi said, “The House also notes that despite the substantial investment of $38.7m, and the commencement of Phase II construction in November 2017, the project ended up being abandoned, resulting in the dilapidation of the critical federal infrastructure.

Advertisement

“The House is aware that the Phase II project has reached approximately 90 per cent completion prior to its abandonment by contractors – Saipem Contracting Nigeria Limited and Nigerian Agip Oil Company.

“The House further notes that the project site is in a grave state of decay, with billions of dollars worth of equipment and turbines unused, covered by grass, and taken over by shrubs.

“The House is concerned that the abandonment of the Phase II project jeopardises significant investments and furthermore hampers an increase in electricity generation for the nation.”

The lawmaker added that the “House is also concerned that there is ambiguity surrounding the project’s contract amount, casting doubt on accountability and transparency in its execution.

Advertisement

“The House recognises the fact that the NAOC and Saipem Contracting Nigeria SCNL were involved in the award and execution of the project.

“The House is disturbed about the lack of advancement of the project and the need for government action to preserve this essential national resource,” he noted.

Consequently, the House mandated its Committee on Power to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the funding and contractors, which includes NAOC and SCNL, and ascertain the impediments leading to the abandonment of the project, and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.

Advertisement
Continue Reading
Advertisement

News

President Tinubu Speaks On Ajuri Ngelale’s Indefinite Leave Request

Published

on

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has endorsed Ajuri Ngelale, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, indefinite leave request.

Recall Ngelale, in a statement on Saturday, announced an indefinite leave of absence.

He proceeded on the leave to attend to pressing medical matters affecting his immediate family.

Advertisement

In a statement he posted on his general communication WhatsApp platform on Saturday, Ngelale revealed that he submitted a memo to the Chief of Staff on Friday.

He noted that the memo was a means of notifying him of the decision to pause his functions, including his roles as Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action and Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee on Project Evergreen.

Ngelale explained that the decision was after consultations with his family due to a worsening medical situation at home.

He expressed hope to return to full-time national service when circumstances permit.

Advertisement

In a statement posted on X by Tinubu’s Special Assistant on New Media, Olusegun Dada and signed by the Presidency, Tinubu approved Ngelale’s request.

Tinubu stated that he fully understands his Chief spokesperson’s reason and sympathizes with the circumstances that have led to this seemingly difficult decision.

The statement read: “The President has received the memo from Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media & Publicity and Official Spokesperson of the President as well as Special Presidential Envoy on Climate Action, informing of his decision to proceed on an indefinite leave of absence for personal and health reasons.

“The President accepts his reasons for the leave, fully understands them and sympathizes with the circumstances that have led to this seemingly difficult decision.

Advertisement

“While extending his heartfelt prayers and best wishes to Chief Ngelale and his family during this challenging moment, the President hopes for a speedy recovery and full restoration to health.

“The President notes his tireless efforts and dedication in serving the nation, and thanks him for the remarkable contributions he made in his various capacities, especially in advancing national discourse and leading efforts on climate action and other key initiatives.

“The President wishes him well in all his future endeavors.

“During this period, we kindly ask that the wish for privacy of Chief Ngelale and his family be respected.”

Advertisement
Continue Reading

News

Confusion As FG Denies Ownership Of Yacht Spotted In France With Nigerian Flag

Published

on

…says it belongs to an undisvcosed private individual

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

The presidency, on Saturday, denied ownership of a yacht spotted hoisting Nigerian flag in St-Tropez, a coastal town in France.

There had been reports of a “presidential yacht belonging to the Nigerian government being used for vacation at St Tropez” on social media.

Advertisement

Senior Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on digital and new media, Otega Ogra, in a post on X, said the yacht belongs to a private individual.

The presidential aide said flags used by the president or armed forces do not contain the coat of arms like the one on the yacht.

Ogra said on Saturday, “There have been false claims circulating that a private individual’s yacht was spotted in St. Tropez is a Nigerian government yacht. Here are some points to consider in order to discern the truth.

“The 42m Bennetti yacht currently being shared online has been privately owned for around 5 years since it was constructed.

Advertisement

It is important to note that this specific yacht has no connection or ownership ties to the Nigerian government, president or armed forces. Any claims or assertions suggesting otherwise are simply not true and inaccurate.

“It is not uncommon for luxury yachts to fly the flag of the owner’s country as well as the flag of the country in which they are registered.

“The official Nigerian flag is Green-White-Green without a coat of arms in the middle. Flags representing the Nigerian President or the Armed Forces do not contain a coat of arms in the center. Placing anything in the center of the flag is a clear deviation

Advertisement
Continue Reading

News

Constituency Devt: Senator Manu fulfils promise, installs solar energy as alternative source of power for constituents(Photos)

Published

on

By Kayode Sanni-Arewa

In a bid to enhance better life for his constituents, Senator Manu Haruna has facilatated installation of solar energy in Takalafiya community in Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State.

Senator Manu who represents Taraba Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly fulfilled his promise of ensuring the energy needs of his constituents are adequately taken care of.

This initiative reflects his unwavering commitment to addressing the energy needs of his constituents by providing a reliable and sustainable power source.

Advertisement

The solar energy project is expected to improve the quality of life in the community, enabling access to electricity for homes, schools, and local businesses, while also promoting environmental sustainability.

This project is part of Senator Haruna’s broader efforts to enhance infrastructure and development in Taraba Central.

Manu is also working tirelessly to make sure areas not connected to the national grid are connected within the shortest period possible.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2024 Naija Blitz News