Nigeria News (Standard)
House of Reps Panel Moves to Strengthen Oversight on Petroleum Midstream Sector for Better Accountability
Lawmakers plan intensified scrutiny of oil and gas operations, citing need for transparency and sectoral reforms
Lawmakers plan intensified scrutiny of oil and gas operations, citing need for transparency and sectoral reforms
The House of Representatives panel has announced plans to intensify its oversight functions on the midstream petroleum sector, aiming to drive improved accountability and transparency in Nigeria’s vital oil and gas industry. The renewed commitment was disclosed in Abuja on Tuesday, as lawmakers outlined steps to ensure regulatory compliance and curb leakages in the sector.
According to the committee, heightened supervision is necessary due to longstanding concerns about underperformance, revenue loss, and regulatory lapses within the midstream segment — which covers transportation, storage, and processing of crude oil and gas. The panel said these issues have continued to undermine government efforts at maximising Nigeria’s hydrocarbon resources.
Nigeria relies heavily on oil and gas revenues for foreign exchange earnings and budgetary support. However, persistent challenges such as pipeline vandalism, illegal refining, and opaque contract practices have affected investment inflows and eroded public trust in the sector. Industry analysts say improving oversight is critical if government wants to meet its economic diversification goals.
The House committee emphasised that it would engage all relevant agencies and operators to review existing frameworks, identify gaps, and recommend actionable reforms. The lawmakers said their interventions are aimed at boosting investor confidence while ensuring that Nigerians benefit fully from the country’s natural resources.
While no specific timeline was given for the commencement of intensified oversight activities, the panel maintained that it would prioritise transparency in all engagements with regulatory bodies and stakeholders. The committee further called for collaboration with executive agencies as part of efforts to strengthen governance across the petroleum value chain.
Nigeria News (Standard)
FAAN Approves ₦1,500 Airport Cab Tariff, Sets October 2026 Deadline for Vehicle Upgrade
Cab operators in Lagos and Abuja oppose new policy as FAAN cites inflation and safety concerns for tariff hike
Cab operators in Lagos and Abuja oppose new policy as FAAN cites inflation and safety concerns for tariff hike
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has approved an increase in airport taxi tariffs from ₦500 to ₦1,500 at major airports, including Lagos and Abuja, effective immediately. The agency announced the decision on Monday, stating that the adjustment was necessary due to rising operational costs and the need to maintain airport infrastructure amid persistent inflation.
The new policy also mandates that all airport taxis must be manufactured from 2012 onwards, with operators given until October 2026 to comply. This directive has drawn strong opposition from members of the Nigeria Union of Private Cab Operators (NUPCO), who argue that the timeline is too strict given current economic challenges. NUPCO members threatened to suspend operations at Lagos and Abuja airports starting July 1 if their concerns are not addressed.
FAAN defended its decision by highlighting that the previous ₦500 tariff had remained unchanged for over eight years despite increases in inflation and operational expenses. The agency said, “Passengers who utilise airport taxi services deserve clean, roadworthy, comfortable, and professionally maintained vehicles that reflect the premium environment expected of a modern international airport.” According to FAAN, multiple extensions have already been granted for the vehicle upgrade requirement: initially set for January 2026, then June 2026, and now potentially October 2026 as a final compliance deadline.
The authority emphasised its commitment to engaging registered cab companies directly through established stakeholder channels rather than through associations or unions. FAAN also clarified that the latest extension is intended as a goodwill gesture recognising prevailing economic conditions but warned no further extensions would be considered after October 2026. “It must be emphasised that the objective of the policy is not to punish operators or deprive anyone of legitimate business opportunities,” FAAN said in its statement.
The dispute underscores ongoing tensions between regulators and transport operators nationwide as inflation, foreign exchange volatility and rising vehicle costs continue to affect service delivery. FAAN reiterated its intention to maintain high standards for safety and comfort at Nigerian airports while promising continued dialogue with licensed transport providers.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Kano PRP Accuses Kwankwaso of Bulk Purchase of Party Nomination Forms
PRP alleges former Kano Governor’s supporters are buying up forms ahead of primaries; NNPP yet to respond
PRP alleges former Kano Governor’s supporters are buying up forms ahead of primaries; NNPP yet to respond
The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) in Kano State has accused former Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and his associates of orchestrating a mass purchase of its nomination forms, raising tension ahead of the party’s forthcoming primaries in the North-West state. The allegation was made public on Tuesday, 23 June 2026, as party officials claimed that PRP’s internal democracy was under threat.
According to PRP leaders in Kano, a group linked to Kwankwaso—who is also a chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP)—allegedly bought a significant number of nomination forms for key elective offices under the PRP banner. The party described this move as an attempt to hijack its candidate selection process and destabilise its preparations for the next election cycle.
The development comes amid heightened political activity in Kano State, a region known for its competitive multiparty politics and strong personalities. Kwankwaso, a former Governor and influential figure within the NNPP, has often been at the centre of major political realignments in Kano. The PRP’s claim highlights growing concerns among smaller parties about interference from more prominent political actors seeking to influence their internal affairs.
In a statement released by its state executive committee, the PRP condemned what it called ‘wholesale purchase’ of nomination forms. “Such actions undermine our party’s values and democratic ethos,” the committee said. As at press time, neither Kwankwaso nor any official from the NNPP had issued a response to the allegation.
Political analysts say this latest dispute could further complicate alliances and candidate negotiations in Kano ahead of general elections. The PRP has called on electoral authorities to monitor the situation closely, while party members have been urged to remain vigilant as primary elections approach.
Nigeria News (Standard)
US Embassy Launches EducationUSA Fund to Support Lagos, Abuja Students Seeking Admission Abroad
Programme targets financially disadvantaged applicants with strong academic records; applications close June 30, says embassy
Programme targets financially disadvantaged applicants with strong academic records; applications close June 30, says embassy
The United States Mission in Nigeria has opened the application window for the 2026 EducationUSA Opportunity Fund Programme (OFP), offering financial and advisory support to academically talented but financially disadvantaged students in Lagos, Abuja and other cities. The call for applications began on June 15 and will end at 11:59 p.m. WAT on June 30, according to the US Embassy and EducationUSA Nigeria.
The EducationUSA Opportunity Fund Programme is designed to help Nigerian students cover the costs associated with applying to American universities, such as standardised testing fees and university application charges. According to officials, the programme does not pay university tuition but provides beneficiaries with guidance throughout the admission process, increasing their chances of securing places and scholarships at reputable US institutions.
US Embassy officials said the fund reflects America’s commitment to expanding access to quality education for young Nigerians who demonstrate strong academic performance and leadership potential but lack financial means. “The initiative ensures that highly qualified students are not denied international education opportunities due to inability to pay application costs,” an embassy representative said in a statement made available on Sunday.
EducationUSA advisers stated that selected candidates would receive intensive mentoring in addition to funding support. The 2026 edition prioritises applicants pursuing science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), artificial intelligence and related fields, though students from all disciplines may apply. The move comes as more Nigerian students seek educational opportunities abroad amidst naira depreciation and rising demand for global qualifications.
Applicants must be Nigerian citizens residing in Nigeria, show outstanding academic records, demonstrate leadership qualities and community involvement, have limited financial resources and intend to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate studies in the United States. Prospective candidates are advised to visit the official EducationUSA Nigeria portal, submit required forms and supporting documents, and complete their applications before the June 30 deadline. Embassy officials say hundreds of Nigerians have benefited from this scheme over the years by overcoming financial barriers linked to foreign admissions.
FAAN Approves ₦1,500 Airport Cab Tariff, Sets October 2026 Deadline for Vehicle Upgrade
Kano PRP Accuses Kwankwaso of Bulk Purchase of Party Nomination Forms
US Embassy Launches EducationUSA Fund to Support Lagos, Abuja Students Seeking Admission Abroad
Abuja Court Rejects El-Rufai’s Bail Variation in Phone Tapping Case
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