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Last year, the Federal Government came up with a promise to reduce transport fares in the Federal Capital Territory by 40 per cent. According to the plan, the Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGI), in partnership with transporters, would install compressed natural gas systems on taxis operating from Area 1 motor park and other parts of Abuja, and fares would drop immediately for commuters.

Data presented by the PCNGI at the launch showed specific cuts: fares from Area 1 park to Gwagwalada would drop from N1,500 to N900. Area 1 to Jabi would move from N700 to N420. Area 1 to Bwari Duste, previously N1,500 , would become N900. Area 1 to Kuje would fall from N1,200 to N720. Area 1 to Galadimawa would reduce from N500 to N300. Area 1 to Mpape would go from N1,000 to N600. Area 1 to Zuba would drop from 1,500 naira to 900 naira. Area 1 to Lugbe would move from N700 to N420 . Area 1 to Nyanya would also reduce from N700 to N420.

The government said over 50 per cent of taxis in Abuja had already been converted to CNG fuel at the time of the announcement.

Speaking in Abuja during the launch in Area 1 Park, Abuja, the Programme Director of PCNGI, Engr. Michael Oluwagbemi, represented by the Regional CNG Expansion Coordinator in charge of the North, David Idakwo, said the agreement reached with the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) had begun to yield results.
He disclosed that the PCNGI had already provided 300 CNG kits to the NURTW leadership free of charge for the conversion of Abuja taxis.
He explained that the 40 per cent reduction in transportation fares applies to routes serviced by vehicles converted to Compressed Natural Gas(CNG).

Oluwagbemi stated that the reduction project would continue to Area 3 and eventually to all other parks within Abuja and the country.

He added that the government would ensure full compliance to the fare reduction agreement in collaboration with NURTW by sending out mystery shoppers pretending to be commuters along all the designated routes to fish out cheating drivers.
Oluwagbemi said a sticker had been placed on each of the vehicles for easy identification, advising commuters to look out for the sticker before boarding to enjoy the benefits of the initiative.

Also, Secretary of the Garki Branch of NURTW, Ibrahim Jibril, who spoke at the event assured that the union had been working with PCNGI since the programme was launched, stressing that it was part of efforts of the President to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians with regard to movement from one point to the other.
Jibril said a lot of vehicles had been converted, and the conversion was ongoing.

He confirmed that when they noticed that the majority of their vehicles had been converted, they put a task force in place to ensure transport fare price reduction for the ones that had been converted.

However, one year after that launch, THE WHISTLER visited Area 1 motor park to assess the implementation of the fare reduction plan and discovered that the by 40 percent reduction plan for transport fare did not only not take-off but did not fly.

Jibril, who was present at the launch in May last year, explained to THE WHISTLER that the initial challenge was lack of refilling centres.
“ Well, after the launch, the problem the drivers started encountering was the lack of refilling centres. They had to queue for hours to get refilled. This was a problem because after wasting hours just to get gas, you don’t expect a driver to still reduce prices,” he said.

He, however, noted that the situation later changed with as there are many refilling stations available, but the distribution of the CNG kits meant for commercial drivers stopped.

He said the kits are being sold directly to the marketers or to the business people and are no longer going to the unions or to the drivers.

“The problem now is that the kits are no more available, just like being given from the government, especially to commercial drivers. Now, what they have is business. This one now, it’s like they’re selling it directly to the marketers or to the business people,” he said.

He said it is only when a driver has money that he can get the kit, and the cost is high.

According to his findings as of last week, the kits are being sold for about N600,000.

He said commercial drivers do not have that amount of money. He recalled that the kits installed last year were free and drivers only paid a token of N25,000 for the construction of the gas cylinder gasket.

He noted that the installation was even supposed to be free, but the token was introduced to help facilitate the process because the PCNGI was not paying the conversion centres as they were supposed to pay them.

He said this situation forced the centres to ask drivers to pay for the construction of the gasket.

“In order to help and facilitate, because the PICNG themselves, they are actually not paying the centres as they are supposed to pay them. So it makes the centres to go around and just ask the drivers to construct that gasket, and that’s all,” he said.

Jibril alleged that up until now, some conversion centres have still not received their money from PCNGI.

He said the union does not really know what exactly is happening with the programme.

On the number of beneficiaries from the initial rollout, Jibril said from his side alone, more than 500 drivers received the kits.

He said the beneficiaries included Uber drivers, union members, and airport taxis.

He acknowledged that the government tried during the initial phase of the programme and, however, noted that the exercise did not in any way reduce the rate of transportation for regular commuters.

He explained that the reduction is only noticeable among Uber drivers using CNG who are booked online.

On the continuation of the programme, Jibril said that as of December last year, they were told more kits would be distributed in January, but nothing happened.

“Maybe they are waiting for the political campaign to start or whatever. But so far, none of the commercial drivers, especially the unions, are actually receiving any kits from the PICNG,” he said.

On the current fare situation, Jibril said that despite the fuel crisis and the cost of fuel, the union has been able to manage transport fares.

He said there is a reasonable consideration, though not up to what people are expecting, considering the cost of fuel.

He said that in some places, only N50 or N100 has been added to the previous fares.
He advised passengers to ensure they enter parks and board vehicles to their destinations.

According to The WHISTLER findings, transport fare from Area 1 to Gwagwada, Bwari, and Zuba is N2000, to Kubwa is N1300, Nyanya N800 and Lugbe, N800.

One Year After, FG’s 40% Transport Fare-cut Promise Fails In Abuja is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Supreme Court has voided the national convention a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15 and 16, 2025.

DAILY POST reported that the convention produced the Tanimu Turaki, SAN-led factional national executives of the party

The apex court gave the judgment on Thursday in a ruling that is expected to shape the 2027 general election.

Justice Stephen Jona Adah who read the lead majority judgment held the disobedience to lawful order of court by the Seyi Makinde-backed faction of the PDP was an unpardonable act that must not be allowed in the interest of the rule of law and democracy.

However, Justices Haruna Tsanami and Abubakar Sadiq Umar, in the minority judgment, held that the issue in dispute was an internal affairs of a political party that ought not to have been adjudicated upon by any court.

A former governor of Jigawa State Sule Lamido had asked the court to stop the national convention on the grounds that he was denied nomination forms to participate in the exercise.

DAILY POST recalls that a Federal High Court had earlier stopped the convention, citing breaches of the party’s constitution and failure to comply with due process.

Despite the order, the convention went ahead, prompting further litigation.

The Court of Appeal subsequently upheld the decision of the lower court, affirming that the exercise was held in violation of valid judicial pronouncements and that its outcome could not stand.

Dissatisfied with the concurrent judgments, the Turaki-led faction approached the Supreme Court, seeking to overturn the rulings and validate the convention as well as the executives it produced.

BREAKING: PDP crisis: Supreme Court voids Turaki faction’s National Convention

The Defence Headquarters say troops of Operation UDO KA, have apprehended top commanders and logistics operatives of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja, while briefing journalists on ongoing military operations across the country.

Onoja said that also apprehended were commanders in the IPOB armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), adding that the feat was achieved in coordinated operations across the South-East in April.

He said that the arrests of the high-value IPOB/ESN operatives marked a significant breakthrough in intelligence-led operations aimed at dismantling separatist and criminal networks in the South-East.

He also said that troops neutralised three terrorists, arrested several suspects, and rescued kidnapped victims during sustained operations across the theatre.

According to him, the arrested suspects include key logistics handlers and financiers who provided support for kidnapping, armed attacks, and other criminal activities in the region.

He added that intelligence-driven raids on identified hideouts in forested areas led to the recovery of weapons, communication equipment, and ransom proceeds, while several camps and shrines were destroyed.

Onoja further said that air-supported operations forced armed elements to abandon their positions, leading to the dislodgement of criminal structures and further disruption of their networks.

In the South-South, the director of defence media operations said that the said troops intensified operations against crude oil theft, illegal refining, and pipeline vandalism, dismantling several illegal refining sites across creeks and forested communities.

He disclosed that over 101,000 litres of stolen crude oil and refined products were recovered during sustained clearance operations, while 17 suspects were arrested in connection with oil theft and other economic crimes.

He added that troops also rescued kidnapped victims during swift response operations, forcing criminal elements to abandon their captives under pressure.

He said follow-up operations led to further arrests and the destruction of active criminal cells operating within riverine and forest environments.

According to him, troops remained deployed across strategic waterways and hinterlands to deny criminals freedom of action and protect critical national infrastructure.

Onoja said the combined operations in both theatres had significantly degraded criminal and separatist networks, disrupted illegal economic activities, and strengthened security in affected communities.

He assured Nigerians of the Armed Forces’ continued commitment to sustaining pressure on all criminal elements threatening national security and economic stability.

“The Armed Forces remain resolute in dismantling all threats to peace, security, and Nigeria’s economic assets,” he said

Troops Apprehend IPOB Commanders is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Ebonyi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has distanced itself from a press statement attributed to the Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, in which he urged consensus or direct primaries for party unity in Ebonyi.

The APC in a statement on Thursday signed by Hon. Arum Kenechukwu, the State Assistant Publicity Secretary said while the party aligns with certain aspects of the statement, it views other elements in publication as a calculated attempt capable of misleading party faithful, inciting tension, and precipitating avoidable political crises within the state chapter.

The party also reaffirmed its support for the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Governor of Ebonyi State, Ogbonna Nwifuru and emphasized that both leaders remain its undisputed standard bearers at the national and state levels, respectively, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“Against this backdrop, the Ebonyi APC wishes to unequivocally reaffirm its unwavering support for the President, His Excellency, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the Governor of Ebonyi State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Builder Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru. The party emphasizes that both leaders remain its undisputed standard bearers at the national and state levels, respectively, ahead of the 2027 general elections”.

The party further states that comprehensive arrangements have been concluded to ensure overwhelming electoral support for both the President and the Governor.

“Stakeholders across the state have intensified grassroots mobilization, not only by showcasing the visible achievements of the Renewed Hope Agenda and the People’s Charter of Needs, but also by sensitizing voters on proper voting procedures to guarantee maximum participation and valid votes across Ebonyi State”.

The party however, expressed deep concern and strong disapproval of aspects of the Minister’s remarks which, if left unchecked, could destabilize the unity and discipline painstakingly built within the party.

“It is both surprising and unacceptable that statements credited to a leader of such stature appear to contradict the very structure and cohesion he helped establish”.

The party noted that the publication titled “Umahi Restates Support For PRESIDENT Tinubu, Nwifuru, Urges Consensus Or Direct Primaries For Party Unity In Ebonyi” contains suggestions that could be interpreted as encouraging aspirants to sidestep the authority of the Governor, who remains the recognized leader of the APC in Ebonyi State. Such a position, the party insists, is not only inappropriate but also capable of igniting disunity and internal crisis.

The Ebonyi APC argued that urging aspirants to procure nomination forms or pursue political ambitions without the knowledge and endorsement of the Governor amounts to a direct affront to party discipline and an invitation to chaos. It warns that any such guidance undermines established leadership.

While referencing the Minister’s claim that there was no directive from the President restricting aspirants from purchasing forms, the party cautions that this must not be misconstrued as a license for indiscipline or disregard for the state leadership structure.

The party also raises serious concerns about the intent and credibility of the publication, suggesting the possibility of misrepresentation by the Minister’s media handlers. It describes the tone and content as provocative and capable of fanning the embers of discord, particularly by creating the false impression of disunity between the President and the Governor.

“Ebonyi APC reiterates that all political activities within the state must be conducted strictly under the guidance and with the full endorsement of the Governor as the party leader in the state. Loyalty, discipline, and respect for constituted authority remain non-negotiable principles”.

Consequently, the party warns that any individual who allows themselves to be misled into acting contrary to the directives of the Governor does so at their own risk. According to the party, such actions will be deemed an exercise in futility and treated as a clear act of disloyalty to the party.

The Ebonyi APC therefore calls on all stakeholders to refrain from actions and statements capable of plunging the party into unnecessary crises, and instead act like elders or risk losing their pride of place.

Ebonyi APC Slams Umahi’s Remarks, Expresses Strong Disapproval is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, Umar Sani, has said that tension is high at the Supreme Court as parties await judgment in appeals involving the PDP and the African Democratic Congress.

Sani, in a post on X on Thursday, said lawyers and court officials were already assembled while a five-member panel of justices was being awaited to decide the cases.

He described the atmosphere as “tense and solemn”, with those present observing prayers as they anticipate the court’s decisions.

“We are all seated at the Supreme Court of Nigeria, waiting for the five-member panel that will decide the appeals involving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

“Counsel for the different parties are arriving gradually, while the court registrar and support staff are already in place. The atmosphere is tense, solemn, and filled with anticipation as everyone quietly lifts their hands in prayer, seeking divine favor and victory,” Sani wrote.

According to him, members of the faction aligned with Taminu Turaki are hopeful of a favourable outcome and prayed for the justices to deliver judgments guided by justice and the rule of law.

DAILY POST reports that the development comes as the Supreme Court is scheduled to deliver rulings on disputes arising from leadership crises in both parties.

The case involving the ADC, marked SC/CV/180/2026, is slated for 2 p.m., while the time for the PDP matter was not indicated on the court’s schedule.

The disputes follow actions by the Independent National Electoral Commission, which declined recognition of some claimants to leadership positions in the ADC, citing earlier court rulings and pending litigation.

For the PDP, the apex court is expected to determine an appeal seeking validation of the party’s national convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State, in November 2025.

ADC, PDP cases: We’re seated, atmosphere tense in Supreme Court – Umar Sani

A Lagos State governorship aspirant, Samuel Ajose, has dismissed a circulating press release claiming he endorsed the deputy governor, Obafemi Hamzat, as the Lagos State governorship candidate of his party.

In a post via his verified X handle on Thursday, Ajose described the circulated press release as false and unauthorised.

He said the alleged publication, which also suggested his support for decisions of the state’s Governance Advisory Council, did not originate from him or his campaign organisation.

“My attention has been drawn to the circulation of a false and unauthorised press release in the Nigerian media, purporting to convey my endorsement of Dr. Hamzat as the Lagos State governorship candidate of our party, and my support for the decisions of the state’s GAC, a process in which I played no part,” he said.

The chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), described the publication as misleading and malicious and called on the public and media organisations to disregard the statement and avoid further circulation.

“This publication is fictitious, unsanctioned, and malicious in intent. It does not represent my position, my campaign’s position, or the position of anyone authorised to speak on my behalf.

“I urge the good people of Lagos State and my supporters across the country to disregard it entirely. I further urge responsible media houses to refrain from amplifying what is, in legal terms, a defamatory and potentially criminal instrument designed to manipulate public opinion and damage my standing,” he said.

The APC gubernatorial aspirant also issued a warning to those responsible for circulating the document, demanding immediate retraction.

“All parties who have published or continue to circulate this material are hereby placed on notice: retraction and full deletion must occur within 12 hours. Legal proceedings for reputational and electoral damages will follow without further notice,” he stated.

‘Fictitious, Malicious’—Ajose Denies Endorsing Hamzat, Threatens Lawsuit is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

One of the governorship aspirants under the under the platform of the All Progressives Congress in Lagos State ahead of the 2027 elections, Dr Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, has announced his withdrawal.

Adediran on Thursday, addressing the media, party leaders of the Lagos4Lagos Movement, and his supporters at Liberty House, Adeniyi Jones Secretariat in Ikeja.

His decision comes days after President Bola Tinubu endorsed the incumbent Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Hamzat.

“Within hours after I purchased my nomination forms, there were developments, including a meeting involving the President and the Deputy Governor,” Jandor explained.

It was subsequently made known that the President had endorsed Dr Obafemi Hamzat.

“Based on my earlier position that I will align with the direction of the President, I have decided to withdraw from the race.”

BREAKING: Jandor withdraws from 2027 Lagos governorship race

The outgoing 13th President and Chairman of Council of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), Oluropo Samuel Dada, FCS, is a seasoned investment professional. Having previously served as the Institute’s 2nd and 1st Vice President, he was elected President in July 2024.

In this interview with Chris UGWU of THE WHISTLER, he shares his perspectives on key developments in Nigeria’s capital market and economy, as well as the notable achievements that defined his tenure.

What is your outlook for Nigeria’s capital market in Q2 2026?

The outlook for Q2 2026 is cautiously optimistic. We expect a gradual improvement in market activity, driven by macroeconomic stabilisation, policy reforms, and renewed investor interest. However, inflationary pressures and exchange rate volatility remain key risks that could moderate growth.

You will recall that the equities market recorded a 51 per cent gain in 2025, and as of 21 April 2026, the market had gained about 40 per cent. This is significant. From my perspective, the outlook for the second quarter reflects a market that has regained investors’ confidence, owing largely to the priority attached to ethical governance by the SEC, NGX, and other exchanges.

It is also important to note that most of the results released by listed firms showed some level of improvement. In light of this, the market is expected to record further growth.

However, there may still be some fluctuations as a result of profit-taking. The performance of the second quarter will also be influenced by the broader macroeconomic environment and geopolitical developments. Overall, I am confident that the market will grow beyond the inflation rate in Q2.

How would you assess the current investment climate in Nigeria?

The investment landscape is evolving, but it is still constrained in several respects. There is growing sophistication among institutional investors, but retail participation remains relatively low. Confidence is improving gradually, especially with ongoing reforms in the financial sector.

How did CIS drive capacity building and professional development under your leadership?

We prioritised human capital development through continuous professional education, examination reforms, and specialised training programmes. The goal was to ensure that our members remain competitive in an evolving market shaped by technology, regulation, and global integration. We also expanded our digital learning platforms to improve accessibility.

Which institutional reforms or innovations best define your tenure?

We strengthened governance structures, improved internal processes, and embraced digital transformation in our operations. In addition, we focused on enhancing transparency, improving member engagement, and aligning the Institute more closely with global best practices in the securities market.

What key strategic initiatives did your administration deliver?

I would like to emphasise that this is the result of a collective effort. We provided responsible leadership by fostering collaboration and teamwork across the Institute, while also strengthening partnerships with other trade groups and professional associations in the financial market. We spearheaded high-level engagements with federal and state governments, as well as the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), and maintained a strong balance sheet through prudent resource management and well-structured policy initiatives.

The Federal Government recognised CIS as a champion of the $1 trillion economy. The number of students sitting for our examinations has increased exponentially, with many non-finance professionals regularising their membership. We also restructured the Institute by sustaining a highly skilled and capable workforce.

How has CIS contributed to strengthening investor confidence in the market?

Through advocacy, ethical enforcement, and collaboration with regulators, the Institute has played an important role in reinforcing trust in the market. By promoting professionalism among stockbrokers and improving public education, we have helped to reduce information asymmetry and improve investor awareness.

What major challenges did the Institute face during your tenure?

The key challenges included navigating macroeconomic instability, managing limited resources, adapting to rapid technological changes, and addressing low public awareness of the securities profession. Despite these challenges, we remained focused on strengthening the Institute’s resilience and relevance.

What guidance would you offer your successor as CIS President?

My advice to my successor is to build on the foundations already laid by deepening reforms, embracing innovation, and strengthening stakeholder collaboration. It is important to sustain professional standards, expand digital transformation, and continue advocacy for greater retail investor participation. Equally important is maintaining strong relationships with regulators and ensuring that the Institute remains forward-looking in a rapidly changing financial environment.

How would you like your tenure to be remembered?

I would like my tenure to be remembered for strengthening professionalism within the stockbroking community, enhancing institutional credibility, and contributing to a more resilient and trusted capital market. Most importantly, I hope it will be seen as a period that advanced capacity building and positioned the Institute for future growth. I also consider my emphasis on ethical governance to be a key part of that legacy.

What are the biggest challenges facing investment and stockbroking firms in Nigeria today?

Key challenges include macroeconomic instability, low market liquidity, high operating costs, regulatory compliance burdens, and limited retail investor engagement. In addition, gaps in technology adoption and capital constraints also affect competitiveness.

With regulators shutting down over 400 fraudulent schemes, how is CIS tackling Ponzi operations?

CIS works closely with the Securities and Exchange Commission and other stakeholders to enhance investor education, professional ethics, and public awareness. We are also strengthening certification standards and promoting financial literacy campaigns to help investors identify and avoid fraudulent schemes.

What impact has the Securities and Investment Act had on the capital market?

The passage of the Securities and Investment Bill into law has strengthened regulatory clarity, improved investor protection, and modernised the legal framework of the capital market. It has also enhanced enforcement capacity and aligned the market more closely with global standards.

How is CIS boosting retail investor participation, particularly in mutual funds?

We are working to deepen financial literacy, support product innovation, and encourage asset managers to design retail-friendly mutual funds. We also collaborate with regulators and market operators to improve access and simplify investment processes.

What opportunities exist for investors in an emerging economy like Nigeria?

Nigeria retains strong long-term prospects due to its large population, youthful demographics, and expanding digital economy. If structural reforms continue to yield results, the capital market will become an even more important driver of wealth creation and infrastructure financing.

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How are global geopolitical tensions shaping Nigeria’s investment climate?

Geopolitical tensions introduce uncertainty into global markets, often triggering risk aversion and a shift of capital toward safe-haven assets. While economies like Nigeria may not always be at the centre of such conflicts, the indirect effects can be substantial, particularly through oil price volatility, foreign exchange pressures, and shifts in investor sentiment.

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What key lessons should CEOs draw from rising global uncertainties?

For Chief Executive Officers, the key lesson is the importance of building resilient and adaptable business strategies. This includes strengthening risk management frameworks to respond effectively to external shocks, diversifying revenue streams and supply chains to reduce exposure to vulnerable markets, maintaining adequate liquidity buffers and flexible financing options, closely monitoring macroeconomic indicators such as oil prices and exchange rates, and communicating proactively with stakeholders to sustain confidence during periods of uncertainty. Ultimately, CEOs who prepare for geopolitical volatility are better positioned not only to safeguard their organisations, but also to seize emerging opportunities in times of global disruption.

INTERVIEW: Economic Headwinds Still Cloud Nigeria’s Investment Outlook — Dada, Ex-CIS President is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Nigerian singer, Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has spoken about the impact of Lagos on his career, revealing that the city was crucial to his maturity journey.

Asake, who relocated to Lagos after graduating from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ille-Ife, said the city nurtured him into manhood.

Speaking in a recent interview with Spotify, the Sungba crooner said Lagos inspired many of his songs.

“Lagos taught me how to live like a man. Lagos inspired most of my songs,” he said.

The singer said he is grateful to God that his talent is being appreciated worldwide, noting that there are far more talented artists than him who are not been heard.

He said, “I’m happy because there are a lot of people who make music out there and a lot of people who are more talented than me. I’m thankful to God that I’m able to use the talent He gave me -not only locally but also globally. So for that, I give all thanks to God.”

Many musicians far more talented than me but not heard – Asake

The United Kingdom, High Commissioner in Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, and the Deputy High Commissioner, Gill Lever, have visited political leaders and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC officials ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The UK High Commission disclosed this in a statement posted on its X handle on Thursday.

The Commission vowed to work with all contending political parties to ensure inclusive and credible elections.

“We look forward to working with all parties and the interns community to support inclusive & credible elections”, the post added.

Those visited include the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, 2023 presidential candidates, Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Joash Amupitan.

According to TVC News, the visits were about developments in Nigeria’s political and democratic processes.

UK High Commission visits INEC, Atiku, Obi ahead of 2027 elections [PHOTOS]