馃嚦馃嚞NigeriaWest Africa
Niger Delta stakeholders criticize National Assembly's pipeline security roundtable as a 'jamboree
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Niger Delta Stakeholders Forum NDSF has labeled a recent parliamentary roundtable on pipeline security surveillance, organized by the National Assembly, as a 'jamboree.' According to a statement from Secretary-General Dr. Alaye Theophilus, the event was 'stage-managed' to conceal failures and questionable activities within the current pipeline surveillance contract system. Dr. Theophilus, who is also the President of the Ijaw Youth Council and President General of the Coalition of Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities, stated that the roundtable exposed 'deep structural weaknesses' and a lack of transparency in the current framework, with national security implications. The NDSF is demanding the dismantling of the existing pipeline surveillance structure, which they describe as 'fundamentally flawed' and 'non-performing,' advocating for its replacement with a transparent, decentralized, and accountable system. The group criticized the National Assembly for not demanding full operational reports from all surveillance contractors, noting that while Tantita Security Services Limited was frequently mentioned, other contractors like Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited and Maton Energy were not similarly scrutinized. The NDSF also refuted claims that stakeholders were properly engaged or invited, stating that only a generic flyer was circulated on social media hours before the event, which they do not consider an official legislative invitation.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
The Kwara State Government has introduced a digital haulage fee payment system through the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service KW-IRS as part of broader tax reforms. This initiative aims to improve revenue collection, eliminate multiple levies, and enhance the ease of doing business in the state. The Executive Chairman of KW-IRS, Shade Omoniyi, announced that the digital platform is now operational for all haulage operators and transporters, replacing traditional roadside fee collection. The new system is designed to increase transparency, accountability, and efficiency, and discontinues roadblocks and unauthorized checkpoints for revenue collection. Transporters will now process all haulage fees electronically, rather than making payments to individuals on highways. KW-IRS has re-engaged consultants to manage operator registration, issue official haulage tags, and oversee the digital payment platform. Registration is mandatory for all operators, who must obtain a haulage tag for identification. The government has warned that individuals, transport unions, or any groups found collecting unauthorized fees, erecting illegal roadblocks, or obstructing haulage operators will face sanctions. Transporters and taxpayers are urged to comply with the new system, and KW-IRS offices or authorized consultants can provide clarification. This digital platform is part of Kwara State's ongoing efforts to reform tax administration, reduce revenue leakages, and eliminate illegal collections b
Spain's goalkeeper Unai Sim贸n has achieved joint third place on FIFA's all-time list for most clean sheets at the FIFA World Cup. Following Spain's progression to the 2026 final, Sim贸n has recorded eight clean sheets in 11 World Cup appearances. This achievement places him alongside Jan Jongbloed, Emerson Le茫o, Sepp Maier, Taffarel, Thibaut Courtois, and Hugo Lloris. Fabien Barthez of France and Peter Shilton of England continue to lead the rankings with 10 clean sheets each in 17 World Cup appearances. Sim贸n's performance in the 2026 campaign contributed six clean sheets in seven matches, adding to his two from the 2022 World Cup. Brazil's Alisson and Gilmar, Spain's Iker Casillas, Uruguay's Fernando Muslera, and Germany's Manuel Neuer are tied for 10th place with seven clean sheets each. Sim贸n has conceded only four goals across his 11 World Cup appearances, resulting in a 0.36 goals-conceded average per game, which is the best among the top-ranked goalkeepers.
The Nigeria Football Federation has issued a warning to Nigeria Premier Football League clubs, urging full compliance with club licensing regulations for the upcoming 2026/27 season. The NFF, with the backing of the National Sports Commission, plans strict enforcement of these rules. This warning follows a communiqu茅 from the NFF Executive Committee meeting in Asaba, Delta State, where the NSC's commitment to supporting the licensing framework was welcomed. These measures are part of broader reforms in the domestic league, which include a proposed N2.5bn prize pool for the 2026/27 NPFL season and an increase in the minimum player salary from N150,000 to N2m. NSC Director-General, Bukola Olopade, stated that these reforms aim to professionalize the league, making it more competitive and attractive to players, thereby preventing them from seeking opportunities in other countries. The NPFL board has tentatively scheduled the 2026/27 season to commence between August 27 and 29, concluding on May 28, 2027, with the President Federation Cup fixtures also integrated into the structured domestic football calendar.