Tinubu Misses Budget Deadline, Sparks Concern
The National Assembly has debunked claims that President Tinubu will present the 2025 budget on Wednesday, stating the required approval of the 2024-2026 MTEF and FSP is still pending. They urged the public to rely on official communication channels to avoid misinformation. The Assembly reassured Nigerians of its commitment to transparent governance and accurate processes. Read More
Athena Commentary: This situation highlights gaps in Nigeria’s budgetary process, including delays in approving critical frameworks like the MTEF and FSP, which hinder timely budget presentation and planning. In more developed countries, budget cycles are strictly adhered to, with frameworks approved well in advance to ensure smooth fiscal operations. Governments in such countries maintain clear and reliable communication channels to prevent misinformation, fostering public trust. Nigeria must prioritize efficient budget preparation, timely legislative approvals, and transparent communication to enhance fiscal discipline and strengthen public confidence in governance.
2027 Election: Nigerian Opposition Parties Mull Alliance to Oust Tinubu
Opposition parties in Nigeria are strategizing to form a unified “granite alliance” to challenge President Bola Tinubu and the ruling APC in the 2027 elections. Key stakeholders, including the CUPP, NCFront, and other political groups, aim to strengthen democracy, address governance issues, and counter APC policies. While some parties plan to merge, others like APGA focus on partnerships, emphasizing unity and reforms to tackle economic challenges and restore voter confidence. Read More
Athena Commentary: Efforts by Nigerian opposition parties to form alliances are vital for accountability, but they often lack cohesive ideologies and clear policy frameworks compared to better-governed countries. Advanced democracies build alliances around shared values and actionable plans, offering credible alternatives. To succeed, Nigerian opposition must focus on unity, transparency, and detailed strategies to truly challenge the ruling party and serve citizens effectively.
Port Harcourt Refinery Commences Crude Oil Refining Operations
The Port Harcourt Refinery has started processing crude oil, operating at 60% capacity to handle 60,000 barrels per day. NNPCL announced this as a major step toward energy independence and economic growth. Plans are underway to restart the Warri Refinery, with truck loading from Port Harcourt commencing immediately. Read More
Athena Commentary: The commencement of crude oil processing at the Port Harcourt Refinery is a positive step for Nigeria’s energy sector, but operating at only 60% capacity highlights inefficiencies. In better-performing countries, refineries are built or maintained to run at near-full capacity with advanced technology and minimal downtime. Additionally, refining processes in these nations are often integrated with strong local production and export strategies, ensuring stable fuel supply and economic benefits. For Nigeria, achieving similar success will require transparent management, consistent maintenance, and strategic policies to maximize output, reduce dependence on imports, and compete globally in energy production and efficiency
Nigeria Loses $1.1bn Annually To Malaria Crisis — Minister
Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister for Health & Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, declared that malaria is not only a health crisis but also an economic and developmental emergency that must be eliminated. The minister stated that Nigeria loses over $1.1 billion annually due to malaria, which has devastating effects on the country’s health and economic growth. To combat this, the government has launched an advisory body, the Advisory on Malaria Elimination in Nigeria (AMEN), to provide evidence-based solutions and drive progress toward a malaria-free Nigeria. Read More
Athena Commentary: Nigeria’s malaria crisis is alarming, with the country accounting for 27% of global malaria cases and 31% of deaths. Compared to better-equipped countries, Nigeria’s response to malaria is hindered by inadequate healthcare infrastructure, insufficient funding, and limited access to preventive measures. In contrast, countries like the United States and the United Kingdom have effectively controlled malaria through robust healthcare systems and preventive measures. Nigeria must prioritize malaria elimination to save lives.
Compiled by
Ijeoma Esther Achebe