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Eterna Plc has partnered with Fuelmetrics Limited to introduce self-service fuel terminals across its retail stations nationwide, as part of its digital transportation drive. Designed to eliminate reliance on attendants, reduce queues, and cut down on cash handling at stations, the system allows customers to pay for fuel using cards and digital vouchers. It also enhances transparency and operational efficiency through real-time transaction tracking and automated reporting, helping station operators minimise leakages and improve accountability. In addition, the platform offers corporate fleet solutions, enabling businesses to monitor fuel usage and manage costs more effectively, as the rollout signals a shift towards automation in Nigeria’s downstream sector.

The Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has charged newly promoted Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs) to exhibit discipline and uphold the ethical standards of the Force in their new roles. Azare gave the charge during the decoration of 613 officers elevated from the rank of Inspector to Assistant Superintendent of Police II (ASP II) at the Command Headquarters in Uyo on Tuesday. Represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, DCP Egbe Preye, the police boss said the new rank places a higher burden of responsibility on the officers. “You must adhere strictly to the rule of law, established rules of engagement and the ethical standards of the Nigeria Police Force,” he said. He noted that promotion in the Force is not only a recognition of past performance but also a call to greater service, discipline and accountability. “Promotion comes with greater responsibility and accountability. You must remain steadfast, professional and exemplary in the discharge of your duties,” Azare added. The commissioner described the elevation as a product of dedication, hard work and commitment, urging the officers to justify the confidence reposed in them. Speaking on behalf of the promotees, ASP George Michael expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, the Police Service Commission and the state command for the promotion. He assured that the officers would discharge their duties with integrity, dedication and commitment to humanity, pledging to be worthy ambassadors of the Force.

What used to be a largely anonymous and loosely regulated group of dispatch riders weaving through traffic in Akwa Ibom is gradually transforming into an organised and traceable workforce, following a new government-backed branding initiative. The Akwa Ibom State Government, through the Ministry of Transport, has commenced the registration and branding of dispatch and delivery bike operators, a move aimed at curbing crime and promoting accountability within the fast-growing sector. Under the initiative, riders are being captured biometrically and issued branded gear in the state colours, including reflective jackets, helmets and delivery boxes, each carrying unique identification numbers to make them easily traceable on the roads. For many residents, the change is already restoring confidence in the sector, as properly identified riders now stand out from unregistered operators, while authorities say the measure will help deter criminal activities often linked to unverified dispatch services. To sustain the reform, the government has directed all dispatch riders—whether independent or working with corporate organisations—to register at the Ministry of Transport Annex along Ikot Ekpene Road, Uyo, with valid guarantor documentation, in a bid to ensure that every operator on the road is known, accountable and part of a safer transport system.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Media Network on Tuesday dismissed fresh arguments backing Cross River State’s claim to Akwa Ibom oil wells, insisting that no scientific theory can override subsisting Supreme Court judgments on the dispute. In a statement signed by its Director General, Otuekong Iniobong John, the group said attempts to anchor the claim on petroleum geology were misplaced, stressing that the issue had been conclusively settled by the courts. The reaction may not be unconnected with a recent position canvassed by John Gaul Lebo of the Cross River Economic Intelligence Team, who argued that derivation should be based on reservoir continuity, declaring that “oil flows from reservoirs, not from maps.” But the APC Media Network countered that while geology may guide petroleum science, Nigeria’s legal framework remains supreme in determining ownership and derivation rights, adding that “no theory, however sound, can displace the authority of a final judgment of the Supreme Court.” It maintained that the dispute was conclusively determined by the Supreme Court of Nigeria and reaffirmed after the ruling of the International Court of Justice on the Nigeria–Cameroon boundary, which, it said, extinguished Cross River’s claim to a seaward boundary and offshore derivation. Citing Section 235 of the Constitution, the group stressed that apex court decisions are final and binding, noting that no committee or agency, including the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission, can sit in appeal over them, while also clarifying that the document before the commission remains a draft report. The Network commended Governor Umo Eno and the state’s Attorney General, Uko Udom (SAN), for what it described as firm and constitutionally grounded defence of Akwa Ibom’s interests, and therefore urged stakeholders to rally behind the government to safeguard the state’s economic lifeline.

President Tinubu Unveils Nigeria Industrial Policy 2025, Demands Speedy Implementation Says policy execution will be measured by factories built, jobs created, exports from nation’s ports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Tuesday, unveiled Nigeria Industrial Policy 2025 with a charge to relevant ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) of government to ensure speedy implementation. According to him, the policy, which is a roadmap for re-engineering Nigeria’s industrial base, unlocking value across sectors, and placing production, competitiveness, and jobs at the centre of the nation’s economic strategy, has already established a clear implementation architecture, because policies rarely fail at conception but at execution. Speaking during the official launch of the Nigeria Industrial Policy 2025 at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja, the President who was represented by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, regretted that for too long, Nigeria has grappled “with fragmented value chains, high production costs, infrastructure gaps, policy inconsistency, and insufficient coordination between government and industry.” Emphatically, the Nigerian leader noted, however, that “this stops now,” as the Nigeria Industrial Policy 2025 is an acknowledgement of such deficiencies. “We have realised that industrialisation is not a wish you think about; it is an action you perform. More than that, we must remind ourselves that this task demands coherence across energy, trade, infrastructure, finance, skills, and innovation. It requires partnership between government and the private sector,” he stated. President Tinubu insisted on timely implementation and execution of the policy, noting that when his administration came on board in 2023, it did so with a promise to redefine Nigeria’s industrial ambition. He said, “The defining strength of this policy is its insistence on implementation. This administration will not measure success by the number of documents we produce. “We will measure success by the number of factories that open their gates at dawn, by the jobs created for our young men and women, by the exports that leave our ports bearing the mark of Nigerian excellence, and by the value retained within our own economy.” Outlining key aspects of the policy, the President said it prioritises strategic sector focus anchored on the nation’s comparative and competitive advantages. He continued: “It advances value chain development so that Nigeria moves steadily from exporting raw materials to producing finished goods. It integrates our micro, small, and medium enterprises into the heart of industrial growth, because prosperity must not be exclusive. “It aligns infrastructure and energy with industrial ambition, for factories cannot run on policy alone. It strengthens skills, technology, and innovation to prepare our people for the industries of today and tomorrow.” While calling for more private sector participation, the Nigerian leader urged support for the sector “to invest with confidence and responsibility, to deepen local value chains, to create jobs and transfer skills, and to partner with government in building a productive economy.” President Tinubu commended the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, “for his disciplined leadership and clarity of purpose in driving” the process, adding that the Minister “has demonstrated that policy leadership is not about noise, but about substance, coordination, and follow-through.” He also applauded the Ministry’s technical teams, industry stakeholders, manufacturers, investors, and practitioners for shaping the “policy into a document grounded in reality and informed by experience” with their insights. Earlier, the Minister of State for Industry, Chief John Owan Enoh, said the campaign marked a turning point aimed at building an industrial Nigeria that produces, competes, and prospers. On his part, business mogul and Chairman of Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, thanked the federal government for introducing a progressive industrial policy, observing that Nigeria is the only country in Africa where the private sector is bigger than the government. Dangote said domestic manufacturers are pleased with the policy the Tinubu administration has created, expressing firm belief that “the naira, this year, will be at ₦1,000 to $100.” Announcing that many investors are willing to invest in Nigeria due to FX stability and other reforms, Dangote suggested that the only thing remaining is the protection of indigenous industries, saying “if there is no protection, there is no way any industry will thrive here.” For his part, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed Malick Fall, expressed confidence that, with the official launch of the policy, Nigeria has taken a step into its future where hope is turned into action, resulting in inclusive economic growth. He explained that the policy is the outcome of an ongoing partnership between the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and Nigeria, aimed at transforming the country into a beacon of prosperity and a key player in regional and global value chains. Also, the President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Otunba Francis Meshioye, commended the President over the launch of the policy, noting that manufacturers are focused on the effective implementation of the policy. He backed the promotion of indigenous entrepreneurship enshrined in the policy, assuring that MAN will give its full support to ensure its successful implementation. Stanley Nkwocha Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications (Office of The Vice President) 17th February, 2026

Abuja — In a move that signals a major concession to public pressure, the Senate on Tuesday adopted both electronic and manual modes for the transmission of election results, ending weeks of controversy over proposed changes to the Electoral Act. The resolution was reached at plenary after lawmakers considered recommendations aimed at addressing widespread concerns and protests by Nigerians who opposed any attempt to restrict electronic transmission of results. Specifically, the upper chamber amended Clause 60 of the Electoral Act, mandating presiding officers at polling units to electronically transmit election results to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Result Viewing Portal (IREV). Under the revised provision, however, where electronic transmission is rendered impossible due to communication or network challenges, the manually completed result sheet, Form EC8A, will serve as the primary document for result collation. The Senate’s decision follows sustained demonstrations at the National Assembly, with protesters insisting that electronic transmission of results remains a critical safeguard against electoral fraud and a key step toward restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process. Lawmakers said the hybrid approach strikes a balance between leveraging technology to enhance transparency and accommodating logistical challenges that may arise in areas with poor network coverage.

  As preparations gather momentum for the 2027 general elections, political groups, organizations and concerned electorates across Akwa Ibom State have begun setting the records straight on zoning, unity, equity and fair representation within various constituencies. One of them is the Atai Uyo Progressives Forum, who insist that the agitation for the Uyo/Ibesikpo Asutan/Uruan/Nsit Atai Federal Constituency seat is anchored on fairness, unity, equity and justice, stressing that the time has come for Ibesikpo Asutan to produce a Member of the House of Representatives. Recently, the group paid a courtesy call on the Former Member Representing Uruan State Constituency, Hon. KufreAbasi Etuk, Ph.D, to further drive the narratives. Responding, the APC Chieftain in the State, Hon. Etuk assured the team that as an ardent advocate for fairness, equity, justice, and good conscience, Ibesikpo Asutan, being an integral part of Atai Uyo, should not be denied representation after 24 years of supporting others. The lawmaker while responding to the facts and figures presented by the group said that since the creation of the federal constituency, all other three local government areas have taken two turns each, adding that 2027, morally and in all honesty, should complete the cycle in favour of Ibesikpo Asutan, he said the right of Ibesikpo Asutan will be given to them in 2027. He voiced out that denying Ibesikpo Asutan the opportunity to produce a representative after decades of patience would amount to continued marginalization and an affront to the principles of equity and unity upon which the constituency stands. The former lawmaker recalled how people voted in protest for Emmanuel Ekpenyong (TEMPO), of Action Congress of Nigeria(ACN) in 2011 when Nsit Atai was denied their turn, leading to the loss of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), cautioning that history might repeat itself if the APC’s internal democracy and processes are not overhauled to prioritize unity, justice, equity, and fairness. The group’s Chancellor, Pastor Joshua Basil(Joe Pastor) used the occasion to pledge their continued and steadfast support for Governor Umo Eno, whom he described as a father to all, a leader who abhors injustice and a man of God whose governance philosophy is rooted in fairness, equity and inclusiveness. He expressed confidence that the Governor’s leadership style and moral authority would continue to promote justice and balance across all local government areas, noting that their demand was in line with the values of equity and unity which his administration represents. Also, the Progenitor of the Group, Cmr. Udeme Smith declared that for 24 years, from 2003 to 2027, Ibesikpo Asutan has waited patiently for a representative who genuinely understands and represents its interests at the National Assembly. “Our time has come. We are not asking for more; we are demanding a competent voice and reputable representative from Ibesikpo Asutan with proven experience and integrity. We’ll not stop the negotiation,” he said. He warned against political manipulation, inducement and what it described as attempts to mortgage the future of the constituency through “peanuts” and compensations, insisting that such tactics would no longer succeed. He cautioned political actors who, according to them, have benefited from the marginalization of Ibesikpo Asutan to desist, noting that the people are now alert, organized and determined. “When your grass becomes green, beware of green snakes. Those who have fed on our marginalisation should beware. Ibesikpo Asutan will no longer be silenced by peanuts or mere compensations. We are watching, systematic but resolute,” he warned. The Group stated unequivocally that 2027 is non-negotiable for Ibesikpo Asutan, urging unity among stakeholders and warning against internal sabotage driven by selfish ambitions. Last Line: “This is a call. 2027 is the turn of Ibesikpo Asutan to represent Uyo Federal Constituency, and we shall stand by it without remorse. Only enemies of our progress will oppose it. We caution that no one should play with our right.” The meeting peaked when the group prayed for a smooth handover in 2027, throwing their weight behind President Bola Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Senator Aniekan Bassey representing Uyo.

Akwa Ibom State Police Command say it will henceforth place human rights compliance at the centre of all law enforcement operations across the state. The new approach was disclosed on Tuesday in Uyo in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Timfon John, following a two-day high-level training for senior police officers. According to the release, the Command has directed area commanders, divisional police officers and unit heads to adopt a Human Rights-Based Policing (HRBP) framework as a compulsory operational guide. The framework requires officers to ensure that arrests, investigations and security operations strictly observe legality, proportionality and respect for the dignity of citizens. The shift followed an intensive workshop at the State Police Headquarters organised in collaboration with the Rule of Law and Empowerment Initiative (Partners West Africa Nigeria), with a focus on modern policing standards. Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, according to the release said the decision reflects the realities of contemporary law enforcement, where public trust and professionalism are critical to effective crime control. “Security enforcement must go hand in hand with accountability and respect for the rights of the people we serve.” He reportedly said. The police said while the training also covered leadership, cybercrime and investigative procedures, the human rights framework emerged as the dominant outcome shaping future policing in the state. The Command noted that implementation of the new strategy would be closely monitored, describing it as a decisive step towards rebuilding public confidence and strengthening police-community relations in Akwa Ibom State.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday condemned the kidnapping of 163 worshippers during a church service in Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, describing the incident as a grim reflection of what it called Nigeria’s worsening insecurity under the Bola Tinubu-led administration. In a press statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the opposition party expressed sympathy with the families of the abducted worshippers and said the attack had plunged the affected communities into “an agonizing period of uncertainty.” The PDP said the mass abduction, which reportedly occurred on Sunday, underscored the “normalisation of insecurity” across the country, arguing that citizens were increasingly unsafe even in places traditionally regarded as sanctuaries. Quoting the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kajuru Local Government Area, the party said bandits stormed the church in large numbers while the service was ongoing. According to the account, 172 worshippers were initially taken, but nine managed to escape shortly after the attack. The party warned that repeated attacks on worshippers, regardless of faith, amounted to a failure of government to guarantee the constitutional right to freedom of worship, insisting that Nigerians should not fear attending churches or mosques. Calling for urgent action, the PDP urged the Federal Government to immediately launch comprehensive rescue operations to secure the safe return of the kidnapped worshippers, while cautioning against what it described as media-driven rescue efforts that could compromise victims’ safety. The statement also criticised the President for what it termed a focus on “international image laundering campaigns,” arguing that insecurity could not be resolved through propaganda or public relations efforts abroad. Reiterating its long-standing position on security reforms, the PDP said the incident strengthened the case for state policing, adding that such a system might have prevented the attackers from operating “with such impunity.” The opposition party further called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts against banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes, describing the protection of citizens as the primary constitutional responsibility of any administration. “The Tinubu administration must demonstrate that Nigerian lives matter through immediate action, not empty promises,” the PDP said, noting that the families of the 163 abducted worshippers were anxiously awaiting their return. As of the time of filing this report, there was no official response from the Federal Government or security agencies on the incident.

The Akwa Ibom State Government has admitted shortcomings in its HIV/AIDS response, even as Governor Umo Eno has reportedly approved the release of the 2025 counterpart funding for key health sector programmes in the state. The Commissioner for Health, Dr Ekem John, made the disclosure on Thursday while briefing journalists at the Ministry of Health in Uyo. He acknowledged that despite progress in data reporting, HIV remains one of the most challenging public health issues confronting the state. According to the commissioner, about 168,000 persons living with HIV/AIDS have so far been identified in Akwa Ibom, noting that the figure reflects gaps in testing and case detection, particularly among residents who are unaware of their status. “For HIV/AIDS, this is one area where we have not done too well, While reporting has improved, many people who are HIV-positive still do not know their status, and this remains a major concern.” He said He explained that the current figure represents a reduction from over 200,000 previously recorded cases, attributing the decline largely to data audits that eliminated multiple registrations by individuals seeking access to antiretroviral drugs in different locations. Dr John added that about 99 percent of those identified as living with HIV in the state are now aware of their status, stressing that the challenge is to locate and test those yet to be captured in the system. Despite the HIV challenges, the commissioner disclosed that Governor Umo Eno has approved and directed the release of the 2025 counterpart funding for major health interventions, with disbursement expected before the end of January 2026. He said the funding would support programmes in Health Insurance, Primary Healthcare, Immunisation, Family Planning and Nutrition, aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery across the state.