
Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi claimed he was forced out of the Peoples Democratic Party by former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Patience Jonathan. Amaechi stated in an interview on Channels Television that he was "literally chased out" of the PDP due to political disagreements, with the Jonathans taking over the political structure in Rivers State. He attributed this to his role as chairman of the Governors' Forum. Amaechi, who also served as former Minister of Transportation, mentioned experiencing a similar situation in the All Progressives Congress, stating he was "chased out of APC." He revealed having multiple discussions with Jonathan regarding their differences, including issues concerning party primaries and governance. Amaechi emphasized the importance of inclusive governance in Nigeria, advocating for policies that protect diverse interests and allow everyone a voice in the economy.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadPresident Bola Tinubu has approved several major infrastructure projects, including the extension of the Fourth Legacy Highway by 400 kilometers, increasing its total length to approximately 1,100 kilometers. This expansion will connect the North-Central and North-East regions through Taraba State. Additionally, the President sanctioned the reconstruction of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway using reinforced concrete pavement, following its deterioration less than five years after rehabilitation. Other approvals include the completion of the abandoned Ibi Bridge in Taraba State, the construction of the 5.76-kilometer Lau Bridge, and the dualization of an additional 400 kilometers of the East-West Road. The Minister of Works, David Umahi, stated that these projects aim to enhance national integration, boost economic activities, and strengthen regional connectivity. Umahi also announced that the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway would be renamed the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Coastal Highway, recognizing Tinubu's long-standing vision for the project. Work is progressing on various sections of the coastal highway, with Section One Victoria Island to Eleko Village serving as a model for modern construction and Section Two Eleko Village to Lagos-Ogun boundary nearing completion. Updates were also provided on the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway and the Trans-Sahara Highway, both described as crucial for reducing travel times and improving connectivity. The Tinubu administration is prioritizing
Must ReadThe United States House of Representatives has passed measures to condition American assistance to Nigeria on the Nigerian government's actions to address violence and protect vulnerable communities, including Christians. These measures were adopted during the consideration of the fiscal 2027 State Department spending bill, which the House approved by a vote of 217-209. An amendment proposed by Republican Congressman Gregory Steube increased the proposed restriction on US aid from 50 percent to 100 percent, meaning all funds would be withheld until Nigeria meets specified conditions. The original provision sought to block half of US funding until the Secretary of State certifies that Nigeria has taken effective steps to prevent and respond to violence and hold perpetrators accountable. Congressman Steube stated that his amendment aims to prevent American taxpayers from funding a government that he believes has failed to stop attacks against Christians. Another Republican lawmaker, Congressman Riley Moore, emphasized that the legislation links US assistance to measurable actions by Nigeria to protect Christians and address religious violence. The lawmakers argued that future US aid should depend on progress in protecting religious minorities, combating terrorism, and ensuring accountability for perpetrators of violence. This measure still requires Senate approval and presidential assent to become law and does not immediately impact ongoing US assistance to Nigeria. This develo
Nigeria produced an estimated 295.18 million barrels of crude oil and condensate, valued at approximately $28.08 billion N41.74 trillion, in the first six months of 2026. This represents a modest recovery from the second half of 2025, with an average daily production of 1.63 million barrels. However, this output is a 1.23% decline compared to the first six months of 2025. Monthly production figures varied, with May recording the highest volume at 52.72 million barrels. Revenue generation was volatile, with a peak of $6.32 billion in April and a low of $3.01 billion in February. The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission attributed the sustained rise in crude oil production to improved operational stability and the absence of major pipeline disruptions, marking the fourth consecutive month of production growth. The N41.74 trillion gross value represents a significant portion of the Federal Government's projected N60.97 trillion oil revenue for the full 2026 fiscal year, highlighting the importance of sustaining production above 1.7 million barrels per day to meet budget assumptions and improve foreign exchange inflows.