Nigeria News (Standard)
Senate Withdraws Arrest Threat Against Ex-NNPC MD Kyari Over ‘Missing’ ₦210trn Oil Revenue
Red chamber reverses earlier committee decision, says due process must be followed in probe of alleged unremitted funds
Red chamber reverses earlier committee decision, says due process must be followed in probe of alleged unremitted funds
The Senate on Thursday in Abuja stepped back from its earlier threat to order the arrest of former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Mele Kyari, over alleged non-remittance of ₦210 trillion oil revenue. The development came after a heated session where lawmakers debated the legality and procedure of compelling Kyari’s appearance before the committee investigating the matter.
The move to issue a warrant was initiated by a Senate committee probing allegations that NNPC failed to remit over ₦210 trillion into government coffers. However, during plenary, some senators argued that such an order was premature and could undermine due process. The Senate leadership subsequently resolved to withdraw the arrest threat, directing the committee to explore all lawful means to secure Kyari’s attendance.
This reversal is significant given public concern over transparency in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. The unremitted funds in question represent a substantial portion of national revenue at a time when government is battling fiscal deficits and mounting debt. Oil earnings remain critical for budget implementation and foreign exchange supply, making accountability in the sector a priority for both lawmakers and citizens.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio stated on the floor that while oversight is crucial, “all actions must be guided by law and established procedures.” Other senators stressed the importance of allowing Kyari adequate opportunity to respond before further action is taken. As at press time, neither Kyari nor NNPC had issued an official statement regarding the summons or investigation.
The Senate has now mandated its committee to re-invite Kyari in line with legislative protocols. The outcome of this investigation could have far-reaching implications for governance and financial management within Nigeria’s oil industry.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Super Eagles Ranked Second-Highest Among Teams Missing 2026 FIFA World Cup
Nigeria trails only Egypt in latest FIFA ranking of nations absent from North America tournament, highlighting missed opportunity
Nigeria trails only Egypt in latest FIFA ranking of nations absent from North America tournament, highlighting missed opportunity
The Super Eagles have emerged as the second-highest ranked national team not participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to the latest FIFA global football rankings released on Thursday. The announcement places Nigeria just behind Egypt among the notable African footballing nations that failed to secure a spot at the upcoming tournament slated for the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The new rankings were published by FIFA following the conclusion of World Cup qualifying matches across various continents. Nigeria, who had been widely tipped as favourites to qualify from their group, missed out on a ticket after failing to secure enough points during the qualification campaign. Egypt, also a traditional powerhouse in African football, similarly did not make it through.
This development comes as a major disappointment for Nigerian football fans and stakeholders, who had high expectations following the Super Eagles’ strong showing at previous Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments and their history of regular World Cup appearances. Nigeria’s absence means West Africa will be represented by other countries such as Ghana and Senegal, while North Africa will rely on Morocco and Algeria.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has yet to issue an official statement in reaction to the rankings or the missed qualification. However, football analysts say the development underscores the need for urgent reforms within the national team set-up. Calls have intensified among supporters for changes in coaching staff and youth development strategies ahead of future competitions.
With global attention now shifting towards preparations for the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup, Nigerian football authorities are expected to review their qualification campaign and chart a new path forward. Stakeholders maintain that building a more competitive squad and improving administrative structures will be crucial if Nigeria is to reclaim its place among world football’s elite at subsequent tournaments.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Senate Orders Arrest of Bandits Flaunting ₦100m Cash on TikTok in Kogi
Lawmakers urge Police Cybercrime Centre to track and apprehend suspects after viral social media giveaways by armed groups
Lawmakers urge Police Cybercrime Centre to track and apprehend suspects after viral social media giveaways by armed groups
The Senate on Thursday directed security agencies to intensify surveillance and arrest bandits and terrorists openly flaunting criminal proceeds on social media, especially TikTok, following alarming reports from Kogi State and other regions. The resolution came after a motion moved by Senator Sunday Karimi (APC, Kogi West) addressing the surge in attacks and digital display of illicit wealth by armed groups.
During plenary, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) raised additional concerns over how criminals have shifted from covert operations to using digital platforms for self-promotion. She cited an incident where bandits allegedly distributed over ₦100 million within 30 minutes through a TikTok giveaway, questioning why the Nigerian Police Force National Cybercrime Centre had not tracked or arrested those responsible despite their visible online presence.
“Bandits and terrorists who carry out these activities live on their social media handles. Two days ago, bandits conducted a giveaway, distributing over ₦100m within the space of 30 minutes through their social media handles, especially TikTok,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said on the Senate floor. She called for coordinated action by relevant security agencies to monitor and apprehend such individuals exploiting social media for criminal gains.
The Senate’s directive was seconded by Senator Osita Ngwu (PDP, Enugu West) and received cross-party backing as lawmakers expressed concern about the growing intersection between insecurity and unchecked online activity by criminal networks. Senators stressed that failing to act would embolden more criminals to use digital channels to project influence and launder their image in public view.
With the resolution adopted, the Senate urged the Nigerian Police Force National Cybercrime Centre and other security agencies to prioritise tracking, monitoring, and arresting individuals publicising criminal operations online. The development signals a new phase in legislative efforts to counter both physical attacks and emerging cyber-enabled threats across Nigeria’s North-Central zone and beyond.
Source: https://punchng.com/just-in-senate-orders-arrest-of-bandits-flaunting-cash-on-tiktok/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Access Holdings Appoints Managing Directors for Two Key Subsidiaries in Lagos
New leadership expected to drive growth and strengthen corporate governance across Access Holdings’ banking and financial service arms
New leadership expected to drive growth and strengthen corporate governance across Access Holdings’ banking and financial service arms
Access Holdings Plc has announced the appointment of new managing directors for two of its major subsidiaries, signalling a fresh phase in the group’s leadership structure. The appointments, which were made public on Thursday in Lagos, are expected to reposition the subsidiaries for improved performance and operational excellence.
According to a statement from Access Holdings, the board approved the appointments as part of ongoing efforts to enhance governance and ensure that its subsidiaries are led by experienced professionals. The company stated that these changes align with its strategic objectives in Nigeria’s highly competitive financial sector.
Access Holdings operates through several subsidiaries, including Access Bank, one of Nigeria’s largest lenders by assets, and other financial service companies. The appointment of new managing directors comes at a time when the group is seeking to consolidate its position amid changing regulatory requirements and evolving market dynamics.
The company said the new managing directors have extensive experience in banking and finance, with proven track records of delivering results in complex markets. “Their leadership is expected to bring renewed focus on innovation, customer service, and compliance across our operations,” Access Holdings stated.
With these appointments, industry analysts expect Access Holdings to deepen its market share while strengthening risk management practices. The group has reiterated its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s economic growth by providing reliable financial solutions. Further details about the specific individuals appointed are expected to be released in subsequent statements.
Super Eagles Ranked Second-Highest Among Teams Missing 2026 FIFA World Cup
Super Eagles Hold Firm at 26th in FIFA Rankings Despite World Cup Absence
Senate Orders Arrest of Bandits Flaunting ₦100m Cash on TikTok in Kogi
Access Holdings Appoints Managing Directors for Two Key Subsidiaries in Lagos
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