FG invests $450m in CNG, says minister
The Federal Government has invested $450 million in the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) sector, according to Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas). Speaking at the Practical Nigerian Content Forum in Bayelsa State, Ekpo highlighted CNG as central to Nigeria’s energy transition and a viable alternative to petrol, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s push to phase out fuel subsidies. Read more
Athena Commentary: The $450 million investment in CNG shows the Federal Government’s commitment to diversifying Nigeria’s energy mix and reducing dependence on petrol. However, the initiative’s success depends on addressing infrastructural and logistical challenges that could hinder widespread adoption. Expanding public-private partnerships and ensuring the affordability of CNG conversion for individuals and businesses will be crucial. While the progress reported is commendable, sustained efforts are required to align these initiatives with broader national goals of energy security and economic development.
Tax reform: Tinubu orders review as protest persist in NASS
President Bola Tinubu has directed a review of the Tax Reform Bills to address nationwide concerns while protests and debates persist. These bills include the Nigeria Tax Bill 2024 and others aimed at overhauling fiscal policy. Critics, including northern governors, argue the reforms centralise tax authority, threatening state revenues. Despite this, some northern leaders and youths support the bills, citing potential benefits such as increased revenue for states. Tinubu emphasised collaboration between the Ministry of Justice and the National Assembly to refine the bills without withdrawing them. Read more
Athena Commentary: The Tax Reform Bills expose Nigeria’s entrenched regional and political divisions, highlighting challenges in achieving equitable fiscal federalism. While proponents champion the reforms as progressive, critics raise valid concerns about centralising tax authority, which risks marginalising less industrialised regions reliant on federal allocations. Public protests, both for and against the bills, underscore the polarisation of discourse, often veering into accusations and emotional rhetoric rather than constructive dialogue. Ultimately, the success of these reforms depends on balancing national economic goals with the diverse realities of Nigeria’s regions.
FG woos medical practitioners for health sector revival
The Federal Government, through Health Minister Prof. Ali Pate, has reassured medical practitioners of improved welfare and working conditions as part of its health sector revitalisation efforts. Speaking at the 3rd National Health Summit in Abuja, Pate urged practitioners to prioritise patient-centred care and collaborate for sustainable reforms. He highlighted progress in cancer treatment, primary healthcare, and workforce retention policies aimed at reducing emigration. However, challenges such as salary arrears and governance remain. Read more
Athena Commentary: The government’s pledges for health sector reform reflect a commendable intent, but rhetoric must translate into action to address longstanding grievances. While the emphasis on patient-centred care and collaboration is essential, challenges like unpaid salaries and inadequate workforce retention policies continue to undermine progress. Moreover, addressing economic pressures driving up medical costs and fostering local pharmaceutical production require more than long-term promises—they demand immediate, actionable strategies.
FAAN reads riot act to security agencies at MMIA
FAAN Managing Director, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, has launched “Operation AirClean” at Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport to curb touting and passenger harassment. In a meeting with security agency heads, she mandated immediate reforms, including dismantling manual search tables, leveraging technology for screenings, and deploying body camera-equipped mystery shoppers to monitor performance. She emphasised collaboration among agencies, accountability, and enhanced passenger experiences. Read more
Athena Commentary: “Operation AirClean” reflects FAAN’s proactive stance against entrenched issues like extortion and harassment at Nigerian airports. The emphasis on technology-driven reforms is a welcome step towards modernising airport security operations. However, sustained success will depend on consistent enforcement and transparency in reporting misconduct. While deploying mystery shoppers demonstrates intent, such measures must be complemented by systemic training to instil professionalism among officers.
Inefficient borders, poor infrastructure hindering Africa’s manufacturing growth – PAMA
The Pan-African Manufacturers Association (PAMA) has highlighted inefficient border processes, high trade costs, and poor infrastructure as critical barriers to Africa’s manufacturing growth. Speaking at the 2024 African Economic Conference in Botswana, PAMA Interim President Ahmed Mansur emphasised the importance of reducing trade costs, improving infrastructure, and enhancing border efficiency to unlock the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Read more
Athena Commentary: PAMA’s identification of longstanding issues like border inefficiencies and poor infrastructure highlights key bottlenecks that limit Africa’s manufacturing sector. While the AfCFTA offers immense potential, its success hinges on overcoming these structural barriers. Mansur’s call for public-private partnerships and innovation-driven industrialisation is timely, but execution remains a challenge. Sustainable progress will require not just investments in infrastructure but also streamlined policies that promote intra-African trade and reduce dependence on external markets. ness and achieve economic transformation across the continent.
Compiled by:
Aliyu Jalal
Kesiena Jasper