Ayuba Wabba, the immediate past president of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has tackled Nigerian cement manufacturers over their exorbitant price fixing.

The NLC directed a nation-wide protest after meetings between the union and President Bola Tinubu’s representatives ended in a deadlock.

The protest against Tinubu’s hasty removal of fuel subsidy took a new dimension on Wednesday when Wabba took on Dangote Cement Plc, BUA Cement Plc and Lafarge Africa plc.

Wabba said, “All around the world, nowhere is the bourgeoisie that forms 10 per cent continue to give us what we want, and they feast on 90 per cent of Nigerians. Find out how their lifestyle is- very bogus. They feast actually on the poor. They feast on the working class. We create the wealth of this country, but yet few people misappropriate wealth, and we live in penury.

“I was engaging my colleague in Senegal few weeks ago about the price of cement because some of the businessmen here also have investments in Senegal and they said no when they wanted to behave like the way the behave in Nigeria.

“Senegalese government told them they cannot fix the price of cement. It is government that will fix the price of cement. We know your profit margin. We know how much you spend to do this business and therefore government must fix the price. In Zambia, the same thing. The government fixes the price. Why exploit the people when we have these resources given to us free of charge? Why should we suffer the consequences?”

Dangote Cement, BUA and Lafarge are the leading manufacturers of cement in Nigeria.

Dangote produces 51.6 million tonnes per annum; BUA is targeting 17 million tonnes yearly while Lafarge has installed a cement production capacity of 10.5MTPA.

Dangote’s retail price for 50kg cement is N4,700; Lafarge’s retail price is N4,500 and BUA’s retail price is N4,700.

Wabba also spoke on the issue of the Dangote refinery which was commissioned late May, 2023.

During the commissioning of the 650,000 barrels per day refinery, Aliko Dangote, its owner said it will begin supply latest July.

But the refinery which was tipped to be the game changer is yet to begin operations.

Ayuba said, “We are aware that they brought up the issue of Dangote Refinery it will be ready by the first quarter of 2023. It was commissioned, but is it producing?

“If we remain solely on importation, two variables are not under our control, one the exchange rate and the cost of crude oil in the international market which means it is going to be a vicious cycle that it has been for the past 30 years. heir has been a vicious cycle and will continue to affect our economy, and therefore, the government must come with immediate plan, medium, and long-term plans.

“Every worker on fixed wages is feeling the heat of this impact. I don’t see how the palliative will address this impact. The palliative is only a temporary measure, but the issue of the price increase will be permanent. Once the exchange rate goes up and it continues to go up, the price will increase. Once the crude price at the international market increases, the price will go up.”

...UK Foreign Secretary assures of enduring partnership

President Bola Tinubu has called on the government of the United Kingdom to deepen its partnership with Nigeria and Africa by investing more across sectors to see the African continent attain more sustainable and broad-based prosperity.

President Tinubu made the call on Wednesday when he received the United Kingdom's Secretary of Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, Rt Hon. James Cleverly MP, in his office.

Calling on the UK to commit more to win-win development partnerships for Nigeria and Africa, the Nigerian leader recalled the history of decades of deep symbiotic connection and economic ties between the continent and the UK, adding that the UK government must work with Nigeria and the rest of Africa to create a competitive, technologically advanced economy that will cater for the needs of all citizens.

"I am happy to know that the United Kingdom is ready to work with us in Nigeria and Africa. The United Kingdom must do more for the continent. We have not developed a competitive economy," the President said.

While addressing the pressing issue of energy transition and the opportunity for economic growth in Africa and Nigeria, President Tinubu charged the Foreign Secretary on the imperatives of the West and UK, in particular, in mobilising investment to pipe gas from Nigeria to Europe.

"The Western economic programme should be able to help Nigeria pipe our gas to Europe since gas is acceptable as alternative clean energy. You must help us with the finance and facilitate the investment we require."

On democracy, peace and stability in West Africa, President Tinubu noted that security would remain a challenge as long as there are unstable governments in the sub-region.

He used the opportunity of the visit to decry the situation in Niger, the Sahel region and Horn of Africa where terrorists are finding comfort, asking the government of UK to support Nigeria to secure West Africa.

"We need a dynamic partnership on security and economic development because we don't want terrorists to make Africa and our sub-region their nest," President Tinubu told the Foreign Secretary.

In his remarks, Rt Hon. Cleverly congratulated the President on his election victory and the steps he has taken so far to reform the economy. He saluted President Tinubu for taking bold and decisive decisions on fuel subsidy removal and on multiple foreign exchange markets which he pointed out will bring development to the country in spite of the current pains.

He told President Tinubu about his meeting in Lagos with entrepreneurs, technologists and young people in the creative sector, saying that his home government remains a strategic long-term partner of Nigeria and Africa.

"I want to commend you for the decisions you have taken to reform your economy. Your economic reforms are bold and the actions taken have been decisive. Despite the initial pains these decisions will lead to economic prosperity for Nigerians."

The Foreign Secretary further said he was in Nigeria to promote bilateral and economic partnership.

"I am keen on encouraging more UK investments into Nigeria. You took bold and important decisions so far that will reform your economy and open it more for foreign investments. Nigeria has a population of very young, educated and thoughtful people. With their energy and talents along with your resources, Nigeria can be a net exporter of energy and agricultural products. The UK will remain a strategic long-term and multi-decades partner of Nigeria and Africa."

On the political situation in Republic of Niger, the UK Foreign Secretary offered his government's support for the decision of ECOWAS and the leadership of President Tinubu in promoting democracy and stability.

"For us, our national interest is to see a peaceful and prosperous African continent because peace and security go hand in hand."

Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

Media & Publicity

It is with a heart full of grief that I pen down this condolence message following the demise of a great jurist the Late Honourable Justice Chima Centus Nweze JSC, CFR who was of tremendous service to the Legal Profession and Nigeria in general.

The Judiciary and Nigeria at large has during his life time enjoyed his quintessential and cerebral spout of scholarly pronouncement. There is no reservation in noting that our jurisprudence, our dear country, Nigeria, the Legal Institutions, the Legal Practitioners and particularly my humble self, will continue to benefit immensely from the wisdom, sagaciousness, competence and cerebral prowess of my Lordship during his lifetime. The life of the Late Honourable Justice Chima Centus Nweze JSC, CFR is one that will never be forgotten.

My Lord’s legacy, integrity, high value service, erudite pronouncements and scholarly display of wisdom as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria will always be etched in the sands of time. I pray that the Almighty God grant him eternal rest amen!

-Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, OON, FCIArb.UK

At least 14 countries have confirmed their spots in the Round of 16 at the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup in New Zealand and Australia, following the conclusion of Wednesday’s group stage fixtures.

South Africa defeated Italy 3-2, and France won 6-3 against Panama to book their places in the last 16. Jamaica drew 0-0 against Brazil, and Sweden won 2-0 against Argentina.

This means Sweden are through to the Round of 16 as they top Group G with nine points from three games, while Jamaica also qualified ahead of Brazil as they finished in second place in Group F.

The likes of Nigeria, England, Denmark, Netherlands, United States, Japan, and Spain are already qualified for the last 16.

Others are Australia, Norway, and Switzerland.

The final two countries that will claim the last two spots in the last 16 will be determined tomorrow.

[DailyPost]

Manchester United fans are no doubt in a celebration mood as club finally secure top transfer target.

National Daily can confirm that Rasmus Hojlund has almost completed his move to United after a successful medical. The 20-year-old has also filmed his first interview as Red Devils’ player after arriving at Carrington on Tuesday.

It is believed that Hojlund’s arrival will United fix their striking challenge

The Dane underwent his medical at United’s training ground and is reportedly set to sign a contract on Wednesday. The Old Trafford club thereafter confirm the move.

READ ALSO: Finally, Erik ten Hag gets his top transfer target, star arrives England for medicals

The striker will become Erik ten Hag’s third signing of the summer after Atlanta and United agreed a deal worth €75m (£64m) plus £10m (£8m) in add-ons.

National Daily learnt that the Red Devils have already agreed personal terms with Hojlund. The forward is to sign a five-year deal at United with the option of a further year.

A move to Old Trafford has been Hojlund’s preference with Ten Hag making him a top target after the Red Devils were priced out of a transfer for Harry Kane.

The striker was absent as Atalanta clashed against Bournemouth in pre-season on Saturday.  This could be as result of his imminent summer switch ahead.

Hojlund is thought to have said his goodbyes to his team-mates and will soon become a United player.

The young striker registered nine goals and four assists across 32 Serie A games for Atalanta last term.

United have been in urgent need of more firepower this summer having relied heavily on Marcus Rashford last season, National Daily gathered.

[NationalDaily]

The Organised Labour has described their discussion regarding petrol subsidy removal palliatives with President Bola Tinubu as “fruitful and productive”.

Speaking with state house correspondents after a meeting with the president on Tuesday in Abuja, Joe Ajaero, national president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), said they thoroughly examined the proposed measures as the concerns that sparked the protests persist.

He, however, did not provide any assurance regarding the cancellation or continuation of the nationwide protests against the economic difficulties resulting from the removal of petrol subsidy.

More to follow…

[TheCable]

Former Kaduna Central lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani has warned about the consequences that may follow the reported decision by Nigeria to cut off electricity supply to Niger Republic in the wake of the military coup in the country.

Sani in a post via his Twitter account on Wednesday said the move is wrong adding that if Niger decides to build its own power station across the River Niger, Nigeria’s Kainji Dam would be rendered useless.

Naija News recalls Nigeria has reportedly cut off electricity supply to neighbouring Niger Republic.

The electricity organization of Niger, Nigelec was quoted to have said the current power outage being experienced in the country is a result of Nigeria halting supply to its northern neighbour.

A BBC source also said the supply to Niger was cut on Tuesday following a directive from Nigeria’s presidency.

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has however declined to comment on the power cuts in Niger according to Arise TV.

Reacting to the development, Sani said the people of Niger Republic should be allowed to decide how they want their country governed and Nigeria should avoid getting instigated by France to start an unnecessary war.

He wrote on Twitter: “The reported Nigerian alleged tempering with electricity supply to Niger Republic is wrong. We must not use power supplies as a means of political blackmail. It will not change anything. If Niger decides to build their power station across their part of the River Niger, our Kainji Dam will be rendered useless.

“President Tinubu and Ecowas leaders should allow the People of Niger to decide on how they want their country to be governed. Don’t be instigated by France to go to war that we don’t need.

“When we had military regime, we fought to free ourselves; let them make their decisions.”

One week after the military coup in Niger, the new military government has reopened the country’s land borders and airspace with five neighbouring countries, a spokesman for the junta announced on television on Tuesday evening.

The border crossings to Mali, Burkina Faso, Algeria, Libya, and Chad were reopened, he said.

The junta also appointed new governors for the country’s eight regions.
Tensions with the 15-member Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) remained. The junta said Niger’s borders with Benin and Nigeria, both ECOWAS members, remained closed for the time being.

On Sunday ECOWAS issued an ultimatum to the coup leaders demanding that the democratically elected president Mohamed Bazoum be released and reinstated within a week. If not, then the group threatened to take measures that could include the use of force.

Meanwhile, France and Italy began evacuating their citizens and others, with two planes landing in France and one in Italy.

The French planes carried mainly French citizens but also Germans and several other EU nationals, some from the United States, Ethiopia, and elsewhere, according to French press reports and the French Foreign Ministry.

The first flight carried at least 260 people, including 12 babies.
The European Commission said in a press release that around 500 people arrived in Paris on Wednesday on board the first two repatriation flights from Niamey.

According to information from the French General Staff, two more planes had also been sent to Niamey for the evacuation. France has offered to evacuate people from other European countries from Niger as well.

The Foreign Office in Berlin had said that the Germans in Niger were advised to accept the offer.

(NAN)

West Africa's regional bloc has said a military intervention in junta-ruled Niger is "the last resort" as Nigeria cut electricity supplies to intensify pressure on the country's coup leaders.

Military chiefs from the grouping were meeting to frame a response and a delegation was in Niger for negotiations, a week after a coup shook the fragile nation and prompted ex-colonial power France to evacuate its citizens.

Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) leaders on Sunday imposed trade and financial sanctions and gave the coup leaders a week to reinstate Niger's democratically-elected president or face the potential use of force.

"(The) military option is the very last option on the table, the last resort, but we have to prepare for the eventuality," said Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS commissioner for political affairs, peace and security.

An ECOWAS team headed by former Nigerian leader Abdulsalami Abubakar was in Niger to "negotiate", added Mr Musah, speaking at the start of a three-day meeting of the grouping's military chiefs in the Nigerian capital Abuja.

The current chair of ECOWAS is Nigeria, West Africa's military and economic superpower.

It has vowed to take a firm line against coups that have proliferated across the region since 2020, most of them under the pressure of a bloody jihadist insurgency.

A source in Niger's power company said Nigeria had cut off its electricity supply to its neighbour as a result of the sanctions.

 

"Since yesterday, Nigeria has disconnected the high-voltage line transporting electricity to Niger," said the source at Nigelec, the country's monopoly supplier.

Niger, one of the world's poorest countries, depends on Nigeria for 70% of its power, buying it from the Nigerian company Mainstream, according to Nigelec.

Junta-ruled Mali and Burkina Faso have warned that any military intervention in their neighbour would be tantamount to a "declaration of war" against them.

General Salifou Mody, one of the Niger coup leaders, today arrived with a delegation in Mali's capital Bamako, said a senior Nigerien official and a Malian security official. They did not give further details.

In Moscow, the Russian foreign ministry called for "urgent national dialogue" in Niger and warned that threats of intervention "will not help ease tensions or calm the domestic situation".

Europeans leave

 

Mohamed Bazoum, aged 63, was feted in 2021 after winning elections that ushered in Niger's first-ever peaceful transition of power.

He took the helm of one of the world's poorest and most unstable countries, burdened by four previous coups since independence from France in 1960.

But after surviving two attempted putsches, Mr Bazoum was overthrown on 26 July, when members of his own guard detained him at the presidency.

Their commander, General Abdourahamane Tiani, has declared himself leader, but his claim has been condemned internationally.

 

France scheduled more evacuation flights from the capital Niamey following hostile demonstrations at the weekend.

By early this morning, more than 500 people had landed in Paris aboard two flights, mostly French citizens but also Portuguese, Belgians, Nigerians, Ethiopians and Lebanese evacuees.

Two final flights have been organised for later today, according to the French army.

Italy said it had evacuated 99 Italians and other nationals living in Niger, who arrived in Rome early Wednesday.

Germany has urged its citizens to leave, but the United States - which has 1,100 troops stationed in Niger - has opted to not evacuate Americans for now.

[Rte]