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How OBJ, Yar’Adua, Jonathan spent N2.74 trillion on power sector

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IT emerged on Tuesday that Nigeria has spent the sum of N2.740 trillion on the power sector in the last 16 years.
While the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Power, Ambassador Godknows Igali, had told the Senate ad hoc committee investigating the power sector that the Ministry of Power spent the sum of N948 billion since 1999, the Managing Director, Niger Delta Power Holding company (NDPHC), Mr James Olotu, also said that the National Independent Power Project (NIPP) activities funded from the Excess Crude Account had gulped $8.23 billon (about N1.640 trillion).
Igali also told the Senate committee that  former military heads of state, who administrated the country from 1983 to 1999, failed to recruit engineers for the power sector throughout the period.
The committee, headed by Senator Abubakar Kyari, was inaugurated two weeks ago by the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, who charged members to probe into the sources of darkness in the country.
Igali told the committee that though the sum of N1.6 trillion was appropriated to the Ministry of Power within the period, the sum of N948 billion was eventually released.
He also stated that the sum of N155 billion was released to the ministry to cushion the effects of the shortfalls in expenditure for the sector between 2009 and 2013.
Speaking at the hearing, Igali said that out of 79 power generation units existing at the time, only 19 were functioning, adding that no new power plant was built between 1991 and 1999.
He stated that former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, brought life to the power sector, as the sector had largely depreciated with no new engineers when democracy returned in 1999.
Despite the effort at investment by government, we have not been able to invest in a consistent manner in the power sector.
“Investment from government and the private sector must go up gradually but consistently, as flunctuation will not help in our economic development.
“I do know that despite government’s effort at funding power sector, the nation continues to experience epileptic power supply, however, it takes time to stabilise,” he said.
According to the permanent secretary, power generation stood at 1,750 megawatt  in 1999 when Obasanjo took over.
He gave the breakdown of the appropriated funds released to the ministry from 1999, saying that in 1999, N11,205,842,051 was appropriated, but N6,697,964,119 released; in 2000, N59,064,381,817 was appropriated, N49,784,641,521 released; in 2001, N103,397,000,000 was appropriated, with N70,927,000,000 released; in 2002, N54,647,252,061 was appropriated, N41,196,117,172 released; in 2003, N55,583,099,000 was appropriated and N5,207,500,000 was released.
He continued that in 2004, N54,647,252,061 was appropriated, N54,647,252,061 was released; in 2005, N90,282,833,404 was appropriated, N71,888,606,274 released; in 2006, N74,308,240,085 was appropriated, N74.3 billion released; in 2007, N100 billion was appropriated, N99.8 billion released; in 2008, N156 billion appropriated, N112 billion released and in 2009, N89.5 billion was appropriated, with N87 billion released.
He added that in 2010, N172 billion was appropriated and N70 billion released; in 2011, N125 billion was appropriated, N61 billion released; in 2012, N197.9 billion was appropriated and N53.5 billion released; in 2013, N146 billion was appropriated and N49 billion released; in 2014, N69.8 billion was appropriated and N48 billion was released, while in 2015, N5,240,000,000 was appropriated, with no money released.
He also gave a breakdown of the N155 billion intervention fund released to the ministry, adding that the ministry got a total sum of N30.8 billion in 2009, N43.2 billion in 2010, N37.0 billion in 2011; N11.5 billion in 2012 and the sum of N32.6 billion in 2013.
He told the committee that the nation was experiencing increased power generation as the  pipeline vandals had stemmed their activities.
According to him, Nigeria’s electricity generation had risen to 4,600 megawatts from 3,500 megawatts in 2013.
He disclosed that the rise in generation capacity was due to the reduction in the degree of vandalism of power pipelines.
The Permanent Secretary also stated that only 2,000 former workers of the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) were yet to be paid their severance allowance, as, according to him, many of those who claimed to have worked with the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) had no valid documents to prove their claims.
He also said the  Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE)  used the proceeds of privatisation of the sector to settle claims of over 46,000 workers through the office of the Accountant General of the Federation and Pension Commission.
The committee, however, expressed worry over the failure of the government to ensure that the local governments were represented on the board of NIPP,  though  the councils were also part of the sponsors of the project.
The committee  also asked the permanent secretary to submit the detailed audit report of the ministry, to allow it tidy some of the inconsistencies in submissions.
While inaugurating the committee two weeks ago, Senator Saraki had mandated it to get to the roots of the persistent blackouts in the country, despite huge financial commitments to the power sector.
Committee of the chairman, Senator Kyari, had also assured the Senate that the task would be taken seriously, adding that the committee would interact with all stakeholders to determine the cause of the nation’s electricity woes.
“A close look at the entire power value chain (generation, transmission and distribution) calls for review of our policies, in order to obtain optimum performances across the board.
“The abysmal performance of the generation segment is no longer news, in view of the current deteriorating power supply which hovers around 4,600 megawatts for a population of over 170 million people, despite the huge resources committed into it.
“This compared with our contemporaries is highly regrettable. No wonder so many companies have relocated from the shores of this nation, due to increasing cost of production.
“The issue of turn-around maintenance, gas pipeline vandalism, just to mention but a few, are some of the teething problems bedeviling the sector. We must address it now in order to stem this destructive tide. The committee will beam its searchlight in this direction to put things in proper perspectives.
“Having realised that the transmission segment is the major linkage between the generation and distribution fronts, increasing our capacity in this direction is also very necessary, since power produced must be utilised immediately.
“Deteriorating infrastructure in this segment must be addressed forthwith. The committee attaches great importance to this and would work assiduously in ensuring that all these leakages or slippages in this area are brought to the front burner and dealt with,” the committee chairman had said.

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Journalists for Good Governance Shines Searchlight on Local Government Administration

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Journalists for Good Governance Shines Searchlight on Local Government Administration

…Calls for Accountability in Nigeria’s Grassroots Governance

 

LAGOS, Nigeria — A civil society coalition known as Journalists for Good Governance(JGG) has intensified public debate on transparency and accountability within Nigeria’s local government system, urging media professionals, civil society actors, and citizens to hold grassroots leaders accountable.

Speaking an event in Lagos recently, the acting chairman of the society, Comrade Bunmi Obarotimi said that despite reforms such as the Supreme Court’s 2024 ruling granting financial autonomy to all 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs), systemic challenges continues to hinder effective service delivery and responsible stewardship of public funds.

“Local governments are the closest tier of government to the people — yet too often they remain the least transparent. Without civic oversight and vibrant media, promises of autonomy ring hollow.” the acting chairman said.

The Journalist for Good Governance emphasised crucial roles that journalists can play in uncovering discrepancies in council spending, flagging poor service delivery, and educating citizens on their rights. Their call comes amid wider efforts by media and civic organisations to bridge accountability gaps. The civil society initiatives had previously launched monitoring campaigns to track local government expenditures and have been quietly advocating for transparency in how public money is deployed.

The leaders of the Journalists for Good Governance (JGG) highlighted the importance of physical assessment and citizens engagement on projects to boost people’s confidence, urging local councils to adopt open data platforms and proactive information dissemination in compliance with the Freedom of Information Act. Experts say the majority of LGAs currently lack operational websites or digital portals, further limiting public scrutiny.

The Journalists for Good Governance initiative aligns with sustained advocacy by civil society groups and governance experts calling for a collective approach to strengthening democratic accountability, and has decided to engage in critical and holistic assessments of how Local Governments is being run and the impact and quality of projects they embark-on and to address deficits in transparency and public trust.
Meanwhile, some state governments have signalled support for improved community engagement. In Lagos State, authorities reiterated a commitment to enhancing community media platforms as vehicles for civic participation and accountability at the grassroots level.

The renewed spotlight on local government administration has reignited public debate over fiscal responsibility and priorities. Controversies such as the widely criticised Adamawa council chairmen’s wives trip to Istanbul — which drew public outrage for perceived misuse of public funds — underscore why watchdog groups say stronger oversight mechanisms are urgently needed at the grassroots.
Citizens and activists have welcomed the journalists’ initiative, calling for sustained media engagement that goes beyond headlines to influence policy and accountability reform.
The civic rights advocates note that real change will require robust legal frameworks, a free press, and empowered communities equipped to demand transparency at every level of governance.
As Journalists for Good Governance mobilises its members, the coming months are likely to see heightened media attention on grassroots administration — from council budgets and service delivery to the enforcement of public information laws and digital transparency initiatives.

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ANOTHER PROPHECY FULFILLMENT BY PROPHET KINGSLEY AITAFO OVER THE EXIT OF DR. KENOLY, ANNOUNCING FEBRUARY’S OPEN PROPHETIC REVIVAL

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ANOTHER PROPHECY FULFILLMENT BY PROPHET KINGSLEY AITAFO OVER THE EXIT OF DR. KENOLY, ANNOUNCING FEBRUARY’S OPEN PROPHETIC REVIVAL

ANOTHER PROPHECY FULFILLMENT BY PROPHET KINGSLEY AITAFO OVER THE EXIT OF DR. KENOLY, ANNOUNCING FEBRUARY’S OPEN PROPHETIC REVIVAL

 

– Another Prophecy Fulfillment by Prophet Kingsley Aitafo Following the Passing of Ron Kenoly Ahead of February Open Prophetic Revival

 

– Prophet Kingsley Aitafo Records Another Prophecy Fulfillment as February Open Prophetic Revival Is Announced

 

In the released prophecies for 2026, renowned Nigerian cleric, Prophet Kingsley Aitafo, shared a series of revelations touching on Nigeria’s economy, global events, political transitions, natural disasters, religious transformations, and the future of world leaders.

 

 

During a special prophetic session, the prophet stated that he foresaw the departure of two world-renowned musicians in 2026 and urged the Nigerian people and the global community to pray for them.

 

ANOTHER PROPHECY FULFILLMENT BY PROPHET KINGSLEY AITAFO OVER THE EXIT OF DR. KENOLY, ANNOUNCING FEBRUARY’S OPEN PROPHETIC REVIVAL

 

He urged Nigerians and everyone around the globe to pray for the musicians, among other prophecies, and already gave insight concerning them.

 

On February 3, 2026, American gospel singer, songwriter, and worship leader Ron Kenoly passed away at the age of 81. Widely known as the “Professor of Praise,” Kenoly was celebrated for anthems such as “Majesty” and “Lift Him Up,” which have significantly influenced modern congregational worship around the world.

 

 

He was recognized as a pioneer of the contemporary praise and worship movement, leading Scripture-based worship services that became widely adopted in churches across different nations and cultures.

 

The development has been described by followers of Prophet Kingsley Aitafo as a confirmation of the prophecy earlier declared in the year.

 

Meanwhile, Prophet Kingsley Aitafo, leader and shepherd in charge of Oneness in Christ, in conjunction with CCC Living Grace Tabernacle, invites everyone to its February Open Revival. It is a prophetic service determined to change lives through miracles, healings, signs, and wonders.

 

 

It is not an ordinary service; it is another time for a divine encounter where your faith is strengthened, prayers are answered, and breakthroughs and favour are about to rain. With its theme — Jesus Christ is the same forever — the revival is promised to release the power of Jesus Christ like never before. It is a period of shift and divine encounter.

 

This revival service is said to hold on the 25th of February, 2026, from 5pm – 8pm at 20, Showole Street, Ewupe, Singer Sango, Ogun State.

 

It is a season where God is ready to reveal Himself like never before. Members of the public are invited to attend.

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GEN CHRISTOPHER GWABIN MUSA SUPPORT INITIATIVE COMMENDS STATE-FEDERAL COLLABORATION IN ZAMFARA

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GEN CHRISTOPHER GWABIN MUSA SUPPORT INITIATIVE COMMENDS STATE-FEDERAL COLLABORATION IN ZAMFARA

 

The Gen Christopher Gwabin Musa Support Initiative (GCGMSI) has commended the Zamfara State Government for its decisive contribution to security operations through the donation of newly acquired armoured personnel carriers (APCs), surveillance drones, and other critical operational equipment to troops and security agencies in the state.

 

This commendation was contained in a statement signed by the Convener of the GCGMSI, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani, Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, and made available to the press.

 

The equipment was formally commissioned on Wednesday, February 18, by the Grand Patron of the GCGMSI and Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR (rtd.), in a ceremony at the Government House, Gusau. The event was attended by senior military officers, heads of security agencies, and top officials of the Zamfara State Government.

 

The GCGMSI, in its statement, hailed the donation as a “transformative and timely intervention” that aligns perfectly with its core objective of advocating for and supporting tangible measures that enhance the operational capacity and welfare of Nigeria’s security forces. The Initiative praised Governor Dauda Lawal’s administration for moving beyond rhetoric to actionable, material support, describing the move as a “blueprint for state-level collaboration in national security.”

 

“The provision of these assets by the Zamfara State Government is a testament to visionary leadership and a profound commitment to the peace and stability of its people,” the GCGMSI statement read. “It represents the exact kind of synergistic partnership between state and federal authorities that the GCGMSI champions. This initiative will significantly close operational gaps, boost the confidence of our gallant troops, and send a strong message to criminal elements.”

 

Speaking at the commissioning, General Musa emphasized that sustained collaboration is indispensable in confronting the nation’s evolving security challenges. He specifically commended Governor Lawal for his proactive support.

 

“Governor Dauda Lawal has demonstrated exemplary leadership and an unwavering dedication to the security of Zamfara State,” the Defence Minister stated. “The provision of these armoured vehicles, surveillance drones, and other operational equipment will undoubtedly boost the morale and operational effectiveness of our troops and other security agencies on the ground. This is a commendable effort that should be emulated by others.”

 

The newly commissioned assets, which include multiple APCs and advanced surveillance drones, are expected to dramatically enhance the mobility, protection, intelligence-gathering, and rapid response capabilities of security forces, particularly in the state’s remote and difficult terrains where anti-banditry operations are ongoing.

 

In his remarks, Governor Lawal reiterated his administration’s steadfast commitment to being a reliable partner in the security architecture. He urged security agencies to deploy the new resources responsibly and effectively to safeguard lives and property.

 

The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Defence, reaffirmed its commitment to continuing and deepening such partnerships with state governments across the nation to strengthen coordination and resource allocation in the collective fight against insecurity.

 

The GCGMSI concluded its statement by urging other state governments to take a cue from Zamfara’s “bold and pragmatic” approach, affirming that such concrete support is vital for achieving lasting peace and security across Nigeria.

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