The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri Ph.D, has emphasized that Africa must begin to look inward for sustainable solutions to its energy challenges.

The minister added that boosting local production capacities while retaining generated resources within the continent is key to long-term energy security.

He made this remarks on Wednesday while receiving a high-level delegation from South Africa’s Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, led by Hon. Minister Gwede Mantashe, during a strategic engagement aimed at strengthening bilateral energy cooperation, enhancing trade, and exploring joint initiatives to tackle Africa’s energy needs.

In his speech, Senator Lokpobiri highlighted the remarkable progress Nigeria has made in recent years, particularly under the #RenewedHope administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Nigeria has significantly enhanced its local capacity in the oil and gas sector. We are witnessing a new era where indigenous companies are taking ownership by acquiring assets from International Oil Companies that are divesting,” he noted.

The South African delegation’s visit was driven by a strong interest in learning from Nigeria’s oil and gas successes and exploring opportunities for partnership. Hon. Minister Gwede Mantashe praised Nigeria’s advancements and expressed optimism about future collaboration.

“Nigeria’s progress in its energy sector is impressive. We are here to share experiences, learn from each other, and build frameworks that support mutual growth. The goal is to develop strategies that are not only beneficial to our two nations but the African continent at large,” Minister Mantashe stated.

Both parties engaged in extensive discussions centered on developing indigenous capacity, enhancing cross-border trade in energy products, and fostering a robust framework for knowledge exchange.

The ministers agreed that collaboration is essential to unlock Africa’s vast energy potential and to address persistent energy poverty across the continent.

“As we collaborate with South Africa, we are also learning from their experiences. Our shared insights will contribute to increased oil production and more resilient energy systems across Africa,” Senator Lokpobiri added.

“Deepening our ties is vital to creating sustainable, African-led solutions to our energy challenges.”

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to establish working groups focused on joint investments, technology sharing, and regional energy integration. This renewed partnership signals a forward-looking approach to building a stronger, self-reliant African energy landscape.

At least eight people have been confirmed dead after a deadly explosion rocked the Maiduguri-Damboa Road on Saturday. The blast, caused by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), is believed to have been planted by Boko Haram insurgents.

The tragic incident occurred on a section of the highway that was recently reopened after years of closure due to insurgent activity. The route, which cuts through the notorious Sambisa Forest, has long been considered one of the most dangerous in Borno State.

Eyewitnesses and local sources confirmed the attack, including Maiduguri resident Lawan Maigana, who revealed that both civilians and military personnel were among the casualties.

According to reports from Channels TV, the explosion struck a convoy of vehicles under military escort, transporting passengers from Damboa to Maiduguri.

Speaking on the incident, Maigana said:
“The road to my hometown in Damboa has always been perilous. Over the years, we’ve lost brave soldiers and innocent residents to Boko Haram. Today’s attack claimed eight lives and highlights the urgent need to strengthen security measures. May Allah protect us all and grant peace to the souls of the departed.”

The federal and Borno state governments are yet to issue official statements on the attack at the time of filing this report.

Credit: Umar Audu | April 12, 2025

OPERATION UDO GA CHI – ZERO KIDNAPPING IN ANAMBRA: CP ORUTUGU SETS UP A MONITORING TEAM TO ENSURE OPERATIVES ARE CIVIL AND COMPLIES WITH THE OPERATIONAL ORDER; ALSO THANKS THE STATE GOVERNMENT AND STAKEHOLDERS FOR THEIR SUPPORT AND APPRECIATES THE SACRIFICES OF POLICE AND OTHER SECURITY AGENCIES

Following the launch and deployment of the Joint Security Team to enforce Operation Udo Ga Chi – Zero Kidnapping, few days ago, the Commissioner of Police *CP Ikioye Orutugu fwc MNIPS PhD.* today 16th April 2025 set up a monitoring team headed by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Criminal Investigations Department Awka *DCP Mantu Chong mni* to ensure that Officers are civil and are complying with the Operational Order. He can be reached on 07030871026.

The *CP* on behalf of other security agencies expresses gratitude to the State Government and some good-spirited Anambraians for their support. He also appreciates the coordinated approach and sacrifices of the Police and other Security Agencies to nip in the bud serious crimes like Armed robbery, kidnapping, and other related situations, especially within this Easter period and beyond.

The *CP* notes that alongside our strong resolve to fight all forms of violent crimes, the Operations have a window of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and community policing principles where applicable. This will be open for those desirous of taking advantage of such avenues to resolve specific problems and issues.

Anambra Police Command shall continue to review the operations as it progresses and explore strategies to improve safety and security in the State.

In the event of request for any security services, members of the public are encouraged to call the Command Control Room number on 07039194332 or PPRO 08039334002 for a prompt response. The ‘npf rescue me app’ is also available for free download on both Android and Apple IOS, for Android and iPhone users respectively. They can also call the various Area Commanders or DPOs in their various areas of concern as attached, please.

*SP Tochukwu Ikenga*
*Police Public Relations Officer*
Anambra State Police Command, Awka

16th April 2025
Admin Nibo