Dangote breaks silence: Why we sacked some workers
The management of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery has clarified the reasons behind its ongoing reorganisation exercise, stating that the move is aimed at addressing repeated acts of sabotage and safeguarding the facility’s long-term stability.
In a statement issued on Friday, the company stressed that the decision was not arbitrary but became necessary to tackle “intermittent cases of sabotage in the various units of the Refinery with dire consequences on human life and related safety concerns.”
The management noted that the refinery remains a strategic national asset that must be protected for the benefit of Nigerians and its partners across Africa.
“We remain vigilant to our internal systems and vulnerabilities to ensure the long-term stability of this strategic national asset. It is imperative to protect the refinery for the benefit of Nigerians, our partners across Africa, and the thousands of people whose livelihoods depend on it,” the statement read.
The company confirmed that over 3,000 Nigerians are currently employed at the refinery, adding that only a small number of staff were affected by the exercise.
It also revealed that fresh recruitment is ongoing through graduate trainee programmes and experienced hire processes.
Kebbe LG Chairman, Abdullahi Yarima, dies in Sokoto
SOKOTO: The people of Kebbe Local Government Area in Sokoto State have been thrown into mourning following the death of their Council Chairman, Hon. Abdullahi Yarima Kebbe.
Hon. Yarima breathed his last on Friday at the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, after a protracted illness. His passing marks the end of a political career devoted to grassroots leadership and community service.
Family sources confirmed that the late chairman is survived by his wife, children, and many grandchildren. He was described as a committed public servant who dedicated his life to the development of Kebbe and the well-being of its people.
Burial rites are scheduled to take place today, immediately after the Jumu’at congregational prayers at his residence in Bado in accordance with Islamic tradition.
The news of his death has sent shockwaves across Kebbe and beyond, with residents, political associates, and admirers expressing grief over the loss of a leader they say embodied humility, dedication, and compassion.
Your determination, perseverance paid off- Tinubu tells Olubadan
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has lauded the determination and perseverance of former governor of Oyo State, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja despite the challenges he faced, noting it has all paid off.
Tinubu noted this during the coronation of Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on Friday.
The president said Ladoja had faced many challenges as governor which led to his removal, adding that he was happy that the former governor was reinstated.
“Let me salute the lucky Imperial Majesty, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja Arusa 1st. And all other traditional rulers.
“Today is an important occasion. I am happy to witness the history and your coronation. It is a great honor and moment of history that you ascend the throne of your forebears. It is my honor.
“I take this opportunity to salute former governors, Donald Duke, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Gbenga Daniel. This moment is not for long speeches. To many of you here present today, I am honored.
Do not snatch people’s wives, lands- Oba Ladoja warns traditional title holders
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja has warned traditional title holders not to use their positions to snatch people’s wives and lands.
Ladoja, gave this warning in his inaugural address at his coronation on Friday.
The event was held at Mapo Hall.
Ladoja has been coronated as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The former governor while addressing the gathering, warned traditional title holders among whom are Mogajis, Baales and chiefs not to use their positions to snatch people’s wives and lands.
He appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other stakeholders who were present.
Ladoja in his address, noted that Ibadan is home to all Yoruba race.
He said “All the traditional title holders, you have work to do. You have many roles to play. Do not snatch people’s wives and lands. I hope you are all listening to me. That is not your roles.
“I greet the President, my good friend, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. You are welcome. If you are not from Ibadan, you met Remi in Ibadan and I am happy she is your pillar. I am happy that Ibadan is the home for all Yoruba.
“Any Yoruba who has no house in Ibadan is yet to have a house. I am happy for the life of our governor, all Ibadan indigenes are the sons and daughters of Ibadanland.
“Some people thought Ibadan will be in crisis. We have settled it. Ibadan has only one room but different windows. We settle things by ourselves. I am happy that the kingmakers who ate the members of Olubadan-in-Council.
NYSC reaffirms commitment to community development
The National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, has reaffirmed its dedication to delivering community development services, particularly in rural areas across Nigeria.
Director General of NYSC, Brig.-Gen. Olakunle Nafiu, made the pledge in Bauchi on Friday during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2025 Batch ‘B’ Stream II Corps members posted to the state.
Represented by Mr. Umoren Kufre, NYSC Bauchi State Coordinator, Nafiu urged Corps members to strictly follow the orientation course timetable and adhere to NYSC bye-laws, rules, and policies, warning that violations could attract sanctions.
“Corps members will continue to serve where they are most needed, especially in rural communities,” he said.
He also commended Governor Bala Mohammed for his support to the scheme, highlighting the renovation of Corps members’ hostels at the Mallam Y.M. Baba NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Wailo, and the construction of a new multi-purpose hall.
“The governor’s commitment reflects his genuine care for youths and Corps members,” Nafiu added.
The NYSC DG stated that out of the 1,900 Corps members posted to Bauchi, a total of 1,022 — 497 males and 525 females — have been successfully registered.
Governor Bala Mohammed, represented by Adamu Gabarin, Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, reminded Corps members that the primary goal of NYSC is to foster national unity and integration.
He added that the orientation course is designed to nurture physical, psychological, mental and intellectual development.