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Saidu Mohammed, the chief executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), was sacked by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu while in an official engagement in Germany, DAILY POST reports.

DAILY POST reports that in a statement by President Tinubu’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, Mohammed was relieved of his duty on Wednesday barely four months after he was appointed.

However, no specific details were given by the presidency for his sack rather than citing the Petroleum Industry Act 2021.

Checks by DAILY POST showed that Mohammed was shown the exit door while he led NMDPRA delegates to the Pipeline Technology Conference taking place in Berlin, Germany, from 27th to 30th April, 2026.

This means that in less than five months, the regulator of Nigeria’s oil and gas downstream sector, NMDPRA, has witnessed two leadership changes following Ahmed Faruk’s removal on December 2026.

Recall that Faruk was accused of corruption by Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote. Days after, he resigned.

NMDPRA boss, Mohammed sacked by Tinubu while on official duty in Germany

The lead Pastor of Streams of Joy International and convener of the New Season Prophetic Prayers, NSPPD, Jerry Eze, has reacted to his investigation for money laundering by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

Eze recalled how he cried every morning while driving to conduct his daily NSPPD prayers due to the investigation.

The Chairman of EFCC, Ola Olukayode, had disclosed that the anti-graft commission probed Eze for six months for money laundering.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, the EFCC Czar noted that the pastor was found to have committed no crime, hence was let off the hook.

Reacting, Eze who noted how the investigation affected him, recounted putting Olukoyede’s name on the altar for prayers.

He said: “I remember that the EFCC Chairman was talking about the investigation, he is saying it and he’s happy, he didn’t know the kind of pressure I was under at the time, I remembered talking to pastor Sarah, Poju at the time saying what did I do? I have not done anything, why are these people after me?

“I wake up and while I’m driving to NSPPD in the morning, I’m saying you did me wrong, I’m crying and saying Jesus- I prayed for you, I put your name (Olukayode) on the altar.

“The interesting thing is that when he came and he said we looked through your books and didn’t find anything wrong. I am grateful to God.”

Money laundering investigation: EFCC made me cry every morning – Pastor Jerry Eze

The management of Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile-Ife, has dismissed claims that a newly introduced transportation system has worsened mobility challenges within the institution.

In a statement issued by the university Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju on Wednesday, the institution said narratives suggesting the intervention had compounded transport difficulties were entirely false and misrepresented the situation on campus.

The management explained that the initiative followed the donation of 50 buses and 30 tricycles by Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.

According to the institution, “the introduction of the vehicles has instead led to measurable improvements in campus mobility, safety and general orderliness.”

Olarewaju, said the previously observed disorder associated with unregulated transport had been significantly reduced.

“The insinuation that this intervention has compounded transportation challenges within the University is entirely false, baseless and a gross misrepresentation of reality,” Olarewaju stated.

He added that the campus environment had become “visibly cleaner, more structured and notably serene since the deployment of the buses and tricycles.”

Olarewaju described the circulating claims as disheartening, surprising and deeply regrettable and noted that they did not reflect the true situation on ground.

The university acknowledged that, “like any new system, the transport scheme may experience initial challenges but stressed that such issues were minimal and being addressed.

“These are expected teething challenges and do not, in any way, invalidate the clear and measurable gains already achieved.”

The management reaffirmed its commitment to improving transportation services for students, staff and visitors, while urging the public to rely on verified information and support initiatives that promote safety and order.

The student union had some days earlier complained that students were experiencing burden commuting within the school campus.

This development led to a peaceful student protest on Tuesday.

As a result of the student protest, the management of the institution declared a three week mid semester break.

OAU debunks claims over campus transport intervention impact

The Nigeria Police Force has ordered the dismissal and prosecution of officers implicated in the extrajudicial killing of a 28-year-old man, Mene Ogidi, in Effurun, Delta State.

Addressing journalists at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, described the April 26 incident as “criminal and unprofessional,” stressing that such conduct has no place in the police force.

The IGP disclosed that the principal suspect, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Nuhu Usman, alongside other officers involved, had been transferred from the Delta State Command to Abuja to face disciplinary proceedings.

He said the Force Disciplinary Committee (FDC) immediately took up the case, while three inspectors were subjected to an Orderly Room Tribunal.

According to Disu, investigations established that ASP Usman violated Force Order 247, which regulates the use of firearms, as well as standard operating procedures.

He emphasized that no level of suspicion against any citizen justifies extrajudicial killing.

The police high command has recommended the immediate dismissal of all officers involved. It also directed that they be handed over to relevant judicial authorities for prosecution over unlawful homicide upon their removal from service.

The recommendations have been forwarded to the Police Service Commission for final ratification.

The IGP distanced the institution from the actions of the officers, noting that they acted outside established rules and the core mandate of the force. “No uniform is a license to kill,” he said, reiterating the force’s zero-tolerance stance on misconduct.

He extended condolences to the family of the deceased and assured Nigerians that justice would be served transparently. Disu also urged residents of Delta State and the general public to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands.

“The era of impunity is over,” he said, adding that the force remains committed to accountability and the protection of citizens’ rights.

Police Order Dismissal, Prosecution Of Officers Over Effurun Killing is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Infinix has officially launched the NOTE 60 Ultra in Nigeria, reinforcing its strategic push into the premium smartphone segment through a series of high-impact partnerships spanning design, technology, and retail. The launch event brought together key stakeholders, industry leaders, media, and consumers to experience the device firsthand, highlighting the brand’s commitment to delivering world-class innovation tailored to the Nigerian market.

Providing a unique perspective on the device’s design, Crank, Head of Auto at 234 Drive, highlighted the supercar-inspired elements that define the NOTE 60 Ultra. Drawing parallels between high-performance automobiles and the smartphone, he pointed to the sleek unibody structure, aerodynamic finish, and precision detailing as key features that echo the craftsmanship of luxury vehicles. He noted that the collaboration behind the device reflects a growing convergence between automotive design principles and consumer technology, resulting in a product that is as much about aesthetics and emotion as it is about performance.

Retail partners also played a central role at the event, with the CEOs SLOT Systems and Harmony Stores present to show their support for the launch. In their remarks, they spoke about the increasing demand within the Nigerian market for devices that combine power, durability, and premium design. They expressed strong confidence in the NOTE 60 Ultra’s market potential, citing its standout features including the Satellite Call and Messaging capability, 200MP camera with Samsung imaging system, 7000 mAh battery, and overall build quality as key factors that will resonate with consumers. They also reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the product is readily available across their retail channels, making it easier for customers nationwide to access the device.

Adding to the strategic outlook, Yefui Nui, Marketing Manager at Infinix Nigeria, spoke extensively about the brand’s expansion plans and long-term vision. She emphasized that the launch of the NOTE 60 Ultra represents more than just a product introduction; it signals a deliberate move to strengthen Infinix’s presence in the premium category while continuing to innovate across all segments. She highlighted ongoing investments in partnerships, product development, and customer engagement, all aimed at reinforcing Infinix’s position as a forward-thinking brand that understands and evolves with its audience. She further reiterated the company’s commitment to Nigeria as a key growth market, underscoring efforts to continuously deliver products that meet the aspirations of modern consumers.

Following this, Oluwayemisi Ode, PR Manager at Infinix Nigeria, addressed the brand’s pricing strategy, emphasizing a careful balance between premium innovation and accessibility. She noted that while the NOTE 60 Ultra introduces flagship-level features and design, it has been thoughtfully priced to remain competitive and attainable for Nigerian consumers. According to her, this approach reflects Infinix’s long-standing commitment to democratizing advanced technology, ensuring that more users can access cutting-edge experiences without compromising on quality or performance.

The event also attracted a vibrant mix of cultural and tech influencers, adding to the excitement around the launch. Notable personalities such as Shine Rosman, Elozonam, Saga, and Neo Akpofure were in attendance, alongside respected tech expert Izzi Boye. Their presence underscored the growing intersection between technology, lifestyle, and entertainment, reflecting the NOTE 60 Ultra’s positioning as a device designed for today’s dynamic and style-conscious users.

Originally unveiled at Mobile World Congress 2026, the NOTE 60 Ultra brings together a powerful combination of innovation and performance. From its 200MP imaging system and advanced zoom capabilities to satellite connectivity, fast-charging technology, and a long-lasting battery, the device is engineered to deliver a comprehensive flagship experience.

With the NOTE 60 Ultra now available at the Infinix Flagship Store in Abuja, and across SLOT, Pointek, Harmony Stores, 3CHUB, Royalline nationwide, Infinix is setting a new tone for its brand in Nigeria one that confidently bridges accessibility with premium aspiration, while continuing to push the boundaries of what consumers can expect from a smartphone.

Infinix NOTE 60 Ultra Signals a New Era for Premium Smartphones in Nigeria

President Bola Tinubu has removed Mr Saidu Mohammed as the Authority Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) barely four months after his appointment.

Tinubu nominated Mr Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as the new Chief Executive of the NMDPRA, subject to Senate confirmation.

According to presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the decision was taken “in the public interest” and in line with provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021.

“The President has also approved the nomination of Mr Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as the new Chief Executive of the NMDPRA. The appointment is subject to Senate confirmation,” the statement said.

It added that the move is intended to strengthen regulatory effectiveness in the midstream and downstream petroleum sector under the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Pending Senate confirmation of the new nominee, the most senior official of the NMDPRA will oversee operations in an acting capacity.

The president thanked the outgoing NMDPRA boss for his service and wished him well in his future endeavours.

Umar, the newly nominated chief executive, was described as a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience across the energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors. He is said to have a track record in strategic leadership, operational transformation, and large-scale project delivery.

He is a graduate of Accounting from Bayero University and an alumnus of Harvard Business School.

On December 17, Tinubu had written to the Senate seeking confirmation of new heads for both the NMDPRA and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), following the resignation of the previous chief executives of both agencies.

At the time, Engineer Saidu Mohammed was nominated to lead the NMDPRA, while Oritsemeyiwa Amanorisewo Eyesan was nominated for the NUPRC.

Mohammed, a chemical engineer with decades of experience in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, previously held senior roles including Managing Director of the Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company and the Nigerian Gas Company. He also served in leadership positions across several key NNPC subsidiaries and was involved in major national gas infrastructure projects.

BREAKING: Tinubu Sacks NMDPRA Boss ‘In Public Interest’ is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

  

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the allocation of land to Ambassadors and High Commissioners-Designate in Abuja, as part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic engagement and encourage closer ties with Nigeria.

Wike made the disclosure during a courtesy visit by Ambassadors-designate led by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja, on Tuesday. 

Addressing the envoys, the minister said that the President’s decision stemmed from a desire to ensure that Nigeria’s representatives have a permanent stake and a residence in Abuja for when they return for periodic briefings.

“The President believes that most of you do not have a place in Abuja… he will encourage you to see how you will put up where you can stay. 

“Before you leave this morning, each and every one of you should have your form to apply for a land allocation in Abuja,” Wike stated.

He also noted that the gesture was aimed at deepening diplomatic presence in Nigeria’s capital while fostering stronger engagement between foreign missions and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“You are, in essence, the mirror of this country. The way the world sees you is the way it will see Nigeria,” Wike said, urging the envoys to uphold the nation’s image in their respective postings.

“You are, in essence, the mirror of this country. The way the world sees you is the way it will see Nigeria,” Wike said, urging the envoys to uphold the nation’s image in their respective postings.

He charged them to effectively communicate the vision and priorities of President Tinubu, particularly in attracting foreign investment and strengthening international partnerships.

“Mr. President has travelled extensively to attract investment and partnerships. It is now your role to reinforce that effort by building confidence in Nigeria as a viable destination for investment,” he stated.

The minister also used the occasion to dismiss concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state, insisting that the country remains firmly rooted in democratic principles.

“Nigeria remains a multi-party democracy. There is no plan to turn the country into a one-party state. You must communicate this clearly wherever you serve,” he said.

Highlighting development strides in the FCT, Wike noted that infrastructure expansion and improved road networks across the six area councils Abaji, AMAC, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali were positioning Abuja as a competitive global capital.

He called on the envoys to attract investors, particularly in agriculture and waste management, noting that vast arable land in areas such as Gwagwalada and Kwali remains underutilised.

“There is enormous potential in agriculture within the FCT, but investment is still limited. We need your support to unlock these opportunities,” he added.

Wike further revealed ongoing efforts to partner with countries including Saudi Arabia and Egypt to boost key sectors, while also announcing plans for engagement with the European Commission to enhance development cooperation.

He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, saying, “I remain confident that by 2027, Nigeria will be more peaceful, more united, and stronger as a nation.”

Earlier, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Ahmed, said the visit was part of the ambassadors’ induction programme, designed to expose them to the strategic importance of the FCT in Nigeria’s foreign relations.

He noted that Abuja, as the nation’s administrative and diplomatic hub, plays a critical role in shaping global perceptions of Nigeria.

“Our Ambassadors and High Commissioners have been entrusted with representing Nigeria at a pivotal moment in our nation’s development,” Ahmed said, adding that they were expected to promote economic diplomacy, attract investment, and project Nigeria positively on the global stage.

He commended the ongoing transformation of the FCT under Wike’s leadership, particularly in infrastructure, urban management, and service delivery, noting that such progress strengthens Nigeria’s international image.

Ahmed also called for stronger collaboration between Nigeria’s foreign missions and the FCT Administration to advance investment promotion, cultural exchange, and urban development initiatives.

The visit, he said, underscores the importance of aligning Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives with domestic development priorities, especially in positioning Abuja as a world-class capital and a hub for international cooperation.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has praised Rotimi Amaechi, describing him as a statesman whose contributions to Nigeria continue to have a lasting impact.

Atiku made this known in a post shared on X on Wednesday after visiting Amaechi at his residence in Abuja.

He said the meeting was both engaging and productive.

“Today, I had an engaging and fruitful audience with my dear brother, H.E. Rotimi Amaechi, at his residence in Abuja,” he wrote.

Atiku highlighted Amaechi’s long record in public service, noting that he has served as speaker, governor and minister.

“Amaechi is a statesman whose distinguished service as a two-time Speaker, two-time Governor, and two-time Minister continues to echo in the annals of our national life,” he said.

He also expressed appreciation for the way he and his delegation were received during the visit.

“I remain deeply grateful for the warmth, grace, and generosity of spirit with which he received me and my delegation,” Atiku added.

Recall that both politicians are reportedly eyeing the presidential ticket under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

‘A statesman’ – Atiku praises Amaechi after Abuja visit

The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has crossed a major safety milestone in the Ogoni cleanup, recording over nine million man-hours without a fatality—but says the next frontier is tackling the often-overlooked mental and emotional toll of work.

Marking the 2026 World Day for Safety and Health at Work, HYPREP signalled a strategic shift from traditional safety metrics to a broader, more human-centred approach that prioritises psychosocial wellbeing alongside physical protection.

The Project Coordinator, Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, in a statement, said this year’s theme; “Ensuring a Healthy Psychosocial Working Environment for All” demands urgent attention to workplace stressors that are less visible but equally dangerous.

While touting the project’s strong safety record since the Ogoni cleanup began in 2017 under recommendations by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Zabbey warned that success cannot be measured by accident-free statistics alone.

“Sustainable outcomes are only possible when workers are not just physically safe, but mentally and emotionally supported,” he said.

According to him, HYPREP’s zero-fatality milestone up from an earlier five million man-hours—was achieved through strict safety protocols, continuous monitoring, and coordinated stakeholder commitment.

However, he drew attention to global data from the International Labour Organization (ILO), which links an estimated 840,000 deaths annually to work-related psychosocial risks such as stress, burnout, harassment, and job insecurity.

In response, HYPREP said it is ramping up efforts to protect workers beyond helmets and hazard signs.

Measures now include psychosocial risk assessments, mental health awareness programmes, structured work schedules, and access to medical and psychological support services.

Zabbey added that fostering open communication and strengthening welfare systems have become central to the agency’s Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) framework.

He also stressed that safety must remain a shared responsibility, involving contractors, host communities, and project managers at every stage of implementation.

Framing the Ogoni cleanup as more than an environmental intervention, Zabbey described it as a “human-centred mission” aimed at restoring livelihoods and securing long-term wellbeing for affected communities.

HYPREP Hits 9m Safe Work Hours, Workers’ Mental Health Next is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered that the identity of a key prosecution witness in the ongoing trial of six suspected coup plotters be concealed from both the public and court records, following an application by the Federal Government.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik granted the order on Wednesday after hearing arguments from the prosecution and defence lawyers in the case involving a 13-count charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/206/2026.

The six defendants are retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni and Abdulkadir Sani. They are standing trial on charges bordering on treason, terrorism, failure to disclose security intelligence and money laundering linked to terrorism financing. They were arraigned on April 22 and all pleaded not guilty. Former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, is listed as being at large in connection with the same charge.

When the matter came up on Wednesday for the commencement of trial, three bank witnesses from Jaiz Bank, SunTrust Bank and Providus Bank gave evidence and tendered documents obtained through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. The documents were admitted in evidence and the witnesses faced cross-examination by defence lawyers.

When a fourth witness was called, prosecution counsel Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, applied for protective measures, arguing that the witness was a serving military officer whose exposure could put his safety at risk. He cited Section 232 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, which empowers courts to adopt protective measures in terrorism-related proceedings.

Defence lawyers did not oppose the application outright but raised concerns about fair hearing. They argued that while shielding the witness from public view was acceptable, full anonymity from the defence team would hamper their ability to test the witness’s credibility and ensure a fair trial. They urged the court to balance security considerations against the defendants’ constitutional rights.

Justice Abdulmalik sided with the prosecution. She held that the terrorism-related nature of one of the counts justified the protective order and that the law permits the non-disclosure of a witness’s name, address and contact details where genuine security concerns exist.

She directed that the witness’s identity must not appear in any court records or proceedings accessible to the parties or the public, and adjourned briefly to allow a protective screen to be set up before the witness took the stand.

Alleged Coup Trial: Court Grants FG Plea For Witness Protection is first published on The Whistler Newspaper